The sun bore down through the trees in Mirkwood as Legolas walked to the clearing where his father stood. He didn't know why his father wanted to practice in this clearing instead of inside, it was hard enough to find this hidden meadow. "Are you ready, Legolas?" His father asked, already sensing his presence without turning around.
"I am," Legolas moved through the grass littered with various windflowers toward his father while taking in his surroundings. The sun sparkled against the water in the river beside his father, dragonflies flew through the air, and the trees swayed gently in the warm breeze.
The Elven King turned and watched Legolas with his piercing blue eyes. As Legolas drew near, Thranduil handed him a sheathed sword. "You will be practicing with this sword. It is…quite special and I think it'd be best for you to use it today." Legolas didn't ask any questions as his hands closed around the sword. "This is the perfect place," Thranduil continued as he turned slightly to gaze around the clearing. "Quiet. Hidden. It's a good place to learn. I…haven't been in this spot for awhile, but it still looks exactly as it did years ago when your—" he stopped himself suddenly and quickly spun back to face Legolas. He gestured to the sword in Legolas's hand. "Your first lesson begins now. Draw your sword."
He did, but couldn't help but wonder why his father had that unsettling look in his eyes as if his mind was elsewhere. The blade in Legolas's hand was thinner and slightly curved, an elegant-looking weapon, older, but deathly sharp.
Thranduil nodded, his face blank. "Begin."
Bunching his muscles, Legolas gave a yell and lunged. Thranduil easily slid aside without even drawing his own sword. Legolas swung his arm back and was met with the sword of his father's. The sound of clashing swords quickly began to fill the air.
"Watch your footwork, Legolas," Thranduil chided the younger elf as he easily deflected every blow. "Keep your eyes on your target."
Legolas gripped his sword tighter and clenched his teeth as he swung at Thranduil, only to be blocked again. "Your blade is an extension of your arm, don't be hasty, flow with your movements," Thranduil informed as he stepped to the side, out of the way of Legolas's incoming blade.
"I'm trying," Legolas gritted through his teeth. "I would be a lot better at this if I had my bow and arrow."
"Regardless." Thranduil's voice didn't change as he evaded another blow. "This is something you need to know. You have to be skilled in each custom for when the time comes," Thranduil ordered, bringing his sword up to deflect another blow.
Before Legolas could answer, Thranduil lunged, coming in fast. Legolas just managed to dodge his first swing, feeling the blade miss his head by centimeters, and slashed upward with his sword. He felt the tip hit something, saw Thranduil jerk back and stumble to a halt, one hand going to his face.
I…I hit him, Legolas thought in disbelief before using this advantage to disarmed Thranduil and place his sword to Thranduil's throat. "I win."
Thranduil froze, staring at Legolas before a small smile appeared. "Well done, my son." He dipped his head and Legolas sheathed his sword and stepped back. "You are ready."
"Finally," Legolas grinned.
