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Chapter 31--A Friend's Remorse

When Syri returned to Legolas' chambers Thranduil and Jadriel were there. She noticed none of the others were in the room now. She closed the door. "How is he?" she asked.

"He is fading even more, I fear that I will lose my brother," Jadriel said.

"Leave us," Thranduil ordered. "I wish to be alone with my sons."

Syri bowed. "Of course sire," she said and left, closing the door behind her. Heart heavy, she went to find the others.

Thranduil sat on the edge of the bed and stroked his youngest son's hair. "My Greenleaf, do not leave us, not when we have just been reunited," he whispered.

Jadriel moved to his father's side and laid his hand on his shoulder. "Legolas is strong, he will come back to us, father. I know it."

**Meanwhile**

Aragorn stiffened as if he'd been struck by lightening. Elrohir is right, I am acting like a hypocrite, and my father brought his fate upon himself. Syri was right too; I am a stupid bastard. I have to go to Legolas before it is to late, he thought.

Thranduil looked up and glared when Aragorn entered. "You have nerve to come in here after what you have done to my son," he growled. "He is in this state because of you."

"Please sire. You must understand how I felt. It was my father," Aragorn said. "Please let me try to help."

Thranduil glared then his shoulders slumped. "As much as I hate to say it I do understand," he said. His eyes hardened. "Perhaps it is best you are here. You may try to help, but if you fail and my son dies you will die right after. I swear this by the Valor," he warned. He moved out of Aragorn's way.

"If he dies because of me I deserve to die," Aragorn said and went to Legolas' side. He was shocked by the Elf's appearance. "Oh Gods, Legolas, I was a fool. I am so sorry," he said. He knelt beside the Elf and clasped his cold hand in both of his.

Thranduil moved back to stand next to Jadriel. "Go to my chambers and fetch my sword. I want it handy," he ordered.

Jadriel bowed. "Yes father," he said and hurried out of the room.

Aragorn never heard or noticed. "Legolas do not pass away. You have duties here to your people. You often told me that, if you die you will fail them. You survived so much; do not let my foolishness destroy you. If our friendship has not been completely ruined by me then come back--please, come back," he pleaded.

Jadriel returned to the room with Thranduil's sword and handed it to him then stood silently next to his father.

Hours passed and Aragorn's voice was hoarse and scratchy. He was starting to despair of every reaching his friend. "Legolas, do not do this, you are the most stubborn person, Human or Elven that I have ever met. I will never be able to respect myself again if you die. Come back, healer--open your eyes-- damn it!!" he said angrily. Suddenly his heart skipped a beat as the Elf's eyes snapped open. "Legolas, can you hear me? Can you answer?" he asked.

Legolas felt so cold and weak. He fought against consciousness, not wanting to wake, but a familiar voice called to him, pleaded with him. It refused to let him go. He forced heavy eyes to open and the first thing he saw was Aragorn leaning over him, eyes suspiciously bright. He punched at him, but the blow was so weak that it had no affect.

"Thank the Valor, I am so sorry, Legolas. If it will help you can beat me to a pulp when you are strong enough. Sleep now," Aragorn said.

"I will hold you to that, Aragorn," Legolas mumbled. He slipped into reverie before Aragorn could answer him.

Aragorn put Legolas' hand down and stood. He walked over to stand before Thranduil and dropped to one knee. "I humbly swear to accept whatever fate you chose for me and I beg your forgiveness, King Thranduil, Prince Jadriel," he said.

Thranduil's hand tightened on his sword indecisively……

So should I have Thranduil chop of his head or not? R/R please!!!!!