I'm glad everyone liked the horses helping them escape in the last chapter….

Chapter 27--Reunion

They rode hard that day, not stopping until it was quite dark. Just after dinner the horses that had defended Legolas wandered into camp, much to Syri's surprise. "What the hell are they doing here?" she asked.

"I have to carry out the last part of our bargain," Legolas said. He began removing the animals' tack. "I promised they would be free if they helped me. Help me get these things off them."

Syri shook her head and went to help him. "You never cease to surprise me, healer," she remarked. As soon as the tack was removed the horses galloped off. "What about the ones we are riding?" she asked.

"I promised to set them free when we reach Mirkwood," Legolas said. He settled down to sleep. "Wake me for my watch."

Legolas was right, there was no pursuit and five days later they came to the border of Mirkwood where they freed the last two horses. That done they entered the forest and were met by a sentry. "Legolas!!" the Elf cried and hugged him. "I am so glad to see you!"

"Jadriel," Legolas breathed, hugging his brother back with just as much force. "I thought I would never see you again."

Finally Jadriel released him. "Come with me, father will be relieved to see you are safe and we owe you a great debt, Lady. Thank you for bringing my brother home." He led the way to the city and they headed for the audience chamber.

Syri excused herself at the audience chamber door. "Go without me, I have to find Boromir and let him know I am back."

Thranduil didn't look up when they entered. "I said I did not want to be disturbed," he said then looked up. His eyes widened and he leaped to his feet so fast he knocked over his chair. "Legolas!!"

"Hello, father," Legolas said.

An instant later Thranduil was hugging his son fiercely. "My little Greenleaf, I thought I had lost you, thank the valor you are home!" he said. His voice sounded hoarse and rough.

Worried, Legolas looked up at his father and was shocked by what he saw. Thranduil was crying; he had never done that in front of him before. "Father, do not weep. I am home and all will be well now," he said.

Thranduil pulled back and wiped his eyes. "Aye, they will be now that you are home. You must be tired and hungry. I will have a meal prepared for just the three of us. Go bathe if you wish. I will send someone for you when the food is ready," he said.

"I would like that," Legolas agreed and left the room, going to his chamber. It was just as he had left it. Servants were already bringing water, soap and towels into the bathing room. After the servants had left Legolas undressed and sank into the deliciously warm water with a sigh of bliss. It was good to be home.

**Meanwhile**

Boromir was in their chamber when Syri came in. He smiled warmly at her. "Welcome home and well done, Syri. You brought the prince home," he said.

"How did you find out already?" Syri asked.

"News travels quickly in this place, you have earned a lot of respect in the Elves' eyes. They are very fond of their youngest prince," Boromir said.

"So I am, Legolas is very brave and he has suffered more then anyone should have too," Syri said.

Indeed, he has," Boromir. Suddenly he seemed a bit nervous. "There is something I need to ask you before I lose my nerve." He sank to one knee and pulled out a small box and opened it--revealing a beautiful ring. "I love you, my mercenary princess and I would consider it a great honor if you would become my bride. Will you marry me, Syri?" he asked…..

Good place to stop, I need a cliffhanger because Bonds Of Hope didn't have one this time…R/R please!!