*~*~*in Mirkwood*~*~*
Legolas set his sight on a fruit blossom far from his perch atop the hill and released his arrow. A few short moments later the arrow bit neatly into the ground, pinning down the flower. He smiled and his blue eyes glittered as he leapt down and ran to his arrow.
"Excellent, Legolas," Thranduil smiled at him. "You are one of the best archers in Mirkwood."
Legolas smiled again. The praise was welcomed, and Legolas knew his father did not deal praise carelessly. He retrieved his arrow and slipped it back into its quiver, then walked with his father to the top of a cliff which overlooked Mirkwood and the surrounding countryside. The sun shone brightly upon the golden trees and sweet waters of his home and warmed his face. But something caught his eyes amidst this beauty and peace; a darkness shadowed his mind and made him frown. He turned toward the south and felt his eyes widen as he beheld the dark clouds brewing at the edge of the horizon. He stared, not understanding, and heard his father sigh.
"This my son, is the reason I asked you to test your skills. I am asking you to go to the council of Elrond in Rivendell to advise this matter. Elves from our home have been asked to attend, and you will be one of them. I will send two others with you on your journey. This…this darkness does not just blot the sun of our land, but of all those in Middle-Earth. In Rivendell Elrond has gathered together leaders of each race to help decide what is to be done of this evil. I will send with you our news and guidance."
"Yes, Father," Legolas bowed, his keen eyes sharper than a raptor's. "Elaborate further."
Legolas listened intently as the king spoke of the terror breeding near Mordor and Isengard. And he heard again the account of the One Ring which suddenly encircled all of Middle-Earth in its gold finality.
"You do understand the dangers, my son?"
Legolas nodded solemnly, the light carefree wind whipping his blond tresses into his eyes. Eyes that had been just a short moment ago so free of fear in his beloved Mirkwood. And now they held a darker glitter, one that was fully prepared for the best and the worst to come. There was still no fear, but the freedom was gone.