Weeks later, Legolas was nearly back to his normal health. Glorfindel visited often, talking with Thranduil, who watched Legolas and Tauriel closely.
"Well," Thranduil told him one day, "at least my worst dream did not come to pass."
"You are young, Thranduil, and you forget sooner than is healthy," Glorfindel said, shaking his head. "If that had come, I do not think you would have regretted it."
"Well, we'll never know, now, shall we?"
"Don't forget that the only reason he lives is because he is waiting for her to be ready. If she dies or gives her heart to another, we will lose him for sure."
"Are you so certain of that?"
"I am. While in Valinor, I was instructed by Lord Mandos in the ways of death. This is his wisdom, not mine."
Thranduil nodded. "The Dooms of Mandos…"
"Speaking of dooms, you were right about one thing."
"And what was that?"
"Your worst dream did not come to pass. But don't relax your guard yet. Your worst hell is on the horizon. Mithrandir brings word of dark things stirring in Dol Guldur."
"Yes, I am certain it is one of the Nine."
"Those tombs were sealed. And if the Nine are abroad, then so must be the One whom the answer to."
"What do I do?"
"Strengthen your borders. Trust no one, save Mithrandir's company."
"And how will I know that company from the many others who seek to pass through Mirkwood?"
"They have a Halfling with them. A Perian."
"I see. Anything more of Legolas?"
"He knows what he is capable of more than any. Let him make his own decisions, but if he starts to fatigue more often, have him rest. Though, soon, you should not know by his actions and appearance that he was so close to death not long ago."
Thranduil nodded. "And of Tauriel?"
"You can only have so much control over his life." Glorfindel turned to leave. "I am needed in Imladris."
"Glorfindel?"
"Yes?"
"Thank you, my friend."
Perian = Hobbit
