Thranduil looked out over the red and gold leafed wood. His son had always loved to see their colours change. He had received word that morning of Legolas, his victory and return to Rivendell. Elrond had written of the death of Haldir, expressing his sadness for the Prince along with the wishes of Galadriel and Celeborn.
He could not bear to think of Legolas facing this loss. Perhaps Legolas would choose to set sail, leaving him here to rule Mirkwood. No, Legolas was too kind for that. He would do all that it took for his father and Thranduil could barely stand the guilt. He wished life were not so cruel and that they were not responsible for the Mirkwood elves. Otherwise they could both depart these lands.
Elrond's words spoke also of Estel but Thranduil did not care to read of the glorified prodigal. He knew that Elrond missed Celebrian as he missed his own wife but the Lady Arwen was of little interest to him in her love for the mortal. He would meet Celeborn soon to discuss the future of his homeland. Much as he was loath to divide the Kingdom, he could place no certainty on Legolas' return and now with the loss of Haldir, Mirkwood needed support. He looked out at the last few green leaves on the trees and wished his son were here.
