Thranduil had sent his son away to deliver one simple message and take a break; and all that returned was a framed bright green leaf taken from the oak they had planted in Imladris one summer, with a letter attached.
...
Ada
I have started this letter over and over again so many times that I think I'm starting to develop a blister. I know you're angry, I know that you're are assuming the worst, and I know that no matter what I say it will not make you think or feel otherwise but I'm going to do it anyway.
There is no other elf anywhere on Arda living or dead that I would rather have for a father. I have never once doubted your love for me, and there is no greater honor to be found than to be your son. The forest and our people could not have asked for a better King or protector.
But I'm scared Ada, I'm so scared. And it's not something you can fix, though I know you're going to insist you can.
I'm scared that I'm losing you, and I'm scared that I'm losing me. I don't know what I'm going to do if that happens, because it feels like there is no coming back from something like that. I'm scared that if something doesn't happen very soon it's about to get so much worse.
And I don't think I can handle that.
I can't sit by and keep watching this happen, I can't keep watching friends die. I can't keep watching the forest burn and you with it. You have given everything to keep us safe, and now it's my turn to try.
I'm sorry to leave you, now of all times. But if I do not do it now there will be no other time.
Please do not cry, for there is no reason. I expect you to still be there when I get back so that we can go for long walks underneath the trees again. When I come back the forest will be green and happy, the waters crystal clear. You can yell at the raven that always nests by your window again. Like Nana said, 'just one foot in front of the other.'
It will be okay, I promise. I'll see you soon, I love you.
To the moon and back with love, your Little Leaf.
Thanks for reading!