Disclaimer: I own nothing. I wish I did. Imagine what I could do.That's
probably illegal actually.
A/N: Wynjara: Thanks so much for the review. Enjoy the rest.
Emily: Wow, thank you so much. I always love getting good reviews and I really appreciate them. I hope you continue to read and enjoy (and review of course).
A/N: Sorry to any Thranduil fans out there. He's not nice in this fic.
Ch 14 A father's Wrath
The next two weeks were mostly spent preparing for Thranduil's arrival. It was clear that no one was really looking forward to it but Legolas wanted to see his father so most people were happy to pretend that they didn't mind. Aragorn and Legolas spent most of their days in the gardens of Rivendell. Aragorn usually read to Legolas under their favourite tree whilst Legolas rested. They had announced their marriage plans days before Thranduil was due to arrive and Elrond had appeared genuinely happy for them. Elrond had also been keeping a close eye on Legolas who had been steadily deteriorating, no more than was expected. He had stayed up with him when the pain had been too much and Aragorn had been too tired. He had become more and more like Legolas' father, a job that he didn't dislike at all.
The day of Thranduil's arrival came and Legolas was looking forward to seeing his father again but was also more nervous about what he would say about the marriage when he learned of it.
That morning Legolas woke up early and got dressed in his best tunic. He was careful not to wake Aragorn who had stayed with him that night. He kissed the ranger gently before going out to the balcony, holding the railing for support. He looked out at Imladris and breathed in the fresh morning air, he loved the mornings, they were always so clean and crisp.
"Legolas?" Aragorn asked sleepily as he walked out onto the balcony searching for his lover. "What are you doing? You should be resting."
"I know. I just wanted some fresh air." Aragorn moved behind him and held him tightly around his chest. Legolas leaned against him and closed his eyes. He felt himself leaning heavily against his lover and realised he was nearly falling asleep. Aragorn didn't say anything when Legolas moved away and sat down on a chair. He closed his eyes and drank in the morning air, thinking about how good it would be to see his father again. He began to fall into sleep and allowed it to take him. Aragorn smiled and went back into the room to get dressed. He chose his best tunic, which complimented Legolas', he wanted to impress Thranduil when he arrived, this was the least he could do. He wasn't looking forward to it but Legolas needed his father so it was worth it. He was just making the bed when Elrond came in. He smiled and went over to help his son.
"Where is Legolas?" Elrond asked whilst helping his son.
"He's on the balcony sleeping. He didn't get much sleep last night, as usual." Aragorn looked towards the balcony.
"I'm afraid he's running out of time. He's getting weaker."
"I know." Aragorn sighed. "He's looking forward to seeing Thranduil. I wish I could say the same."
"I know how you feel but we have to try and make him feel welcome, if only for Legolas' sake. It's nice to see you're already making the effort." Elrond pointed towards Aragorn's best tunic. "If nothing else than for Legolas." Aragorn nodded.
"He's looking forward to seeing his father. I just hope Thranduil isn't too hard on him. I don't think he could handle that right now, he needs to know his father's supportive of him."
Elrond nodded. "I will let Thranduil know this, I don't want him upsetting Legolas, not now."
Just then they heard a small cry from the balcony, they instantly ran out where Legolas was. He had his eyes closed as if he was sleeping but he was rolling his head from side to side and muttering nonsense. He looked pale and when Aragorn touched his hand he was hot and shaking. Elrond touched Legolas' forehead and felt how hot he was. The two were concerned but this was something that happened quite often. All they could do was bring his temperature down and wait. Unfortunately after he was calm he usually ended up completely exhausted.
Aragorn gently picked Legolas up, holding him tightly as he tried to struggle free. Legolas calmed when Aragorn whispered reassuringly to him. Legolas put his head against Aragorn's shoulder and laid still. Aragorn carried him through into the room.
"Estel?" Legolas whimpered. "Estel." He almost cried.
"It's alright Legolas. You're fine." Aragorn soothed.
Aragorn carefully placed Legolas on the bed and Elrond brought a cold cloth and placed it on Legolas' forehead. He left the room, giving Aragorn a reassuring look before he left. Aragorn nodded his thanks and stayed next to Legolas. He hoped his lover would be better by the time his father came.
Aragorn sat with him until he finally woke up in early afternoon. As Legolas opened he saw Aragorn watching him.
"Aragorn, what happened?"
"You're alright, just relax." Aragorn tried to calm Legolas who was trying to sit up. "You need to rest." Legolas laid back down in submission, knowing that he couldn't go anywhere even if he wanted to. He suddenly sat up again when he remembered what day it was.
"Is my father here yet? I don't want him to see me like this. I don't want him to think.to think I'm weak."
"Legolas, you are not weak, understand? What is happening to you is not your fault. Your father will understand that. And so will everyone else."
"You remember what happened last time we went to see him in Mirkwood. He threw us out."
"That won't happen again Legolas. Your father loves you. I don't think."
"I want him to be my father Aragorn." Legolas laid back down as he said this. He closed his eyes and was asleep as soon as his head hit the pillow. Aragorn sighed and placed a blanket over the sleeping Elf. He sat with Legolas until he was sure he was asleep, then left, he had things to do before he met Thranduil again.
**
When Thranduil arrived at Imladris Elrond was there to greet him and was surprised to see that he didn't look at all worried. He had stated very clearly in his message sent to Mirkwood how serious Legolas' condition was and yet the King didn't look at all concerned. Elrond waited at the gates, it was true to say that he was not looking forward to Thranduil's visit, he hoped the King wouldn't be too upset with him although he didn't doubt that he would be upset about Legolas' sudden deterioration that day.
Elrond walked over to where Thranduil was dismounting his horse. He bowed as Thranduil approached him and the King hastily returned the gesture out of necessity rather than politeness.
"Welcome King Thranduil. It has been many years since you set foot in Imladris and I hope your stay will be pleasurable."
"I have not come for pleasure or to listen to your mumblings I came here to see my son. You said he was ill. I rushed over here so it had better be important." Thranduil was already walking the entrance of Elrond's house.
"If you will allow me to show you to the library so we may discuss your son's condition." Elrond said politely, trying to control his temper, he knew that was going to be difficult.
"I came for my son."
"Legolas is not well at the moment. He is sleeping and should not be disturbed. I will tell you what is wrong and you can see him when he wakes."
Thranduil stopped and looked over at Elrond furiously, he looked as though he was about to say something but Elrond's determined look stopped him. He nodded and Elrond led them towards the library glad that he had successfully avoided his first possible confrontation with the King.
**
Legolas woke to find that Aragorn was no longer watching over him. He looked about hoping to find him somewhere in the room. Legolas sighed and laid back down when he realised Aragorn wasn't there. He closed his eyes and tried to get rid of that annoying pounding in his head. He always felt like this after one of his attacks and he hated it, this was worse than the others though, they had been getting stronger and stronger. He suddenly sat up, remembering that his father was coming. He glanced out the open window. It was almost mid-day. Legolas practically jumped out of bed and ran to the mirror, as best he could. He smoothed his clothes and quickly tidied his hair hoping it looked presentable enough for his father.
As he was doing this Aragorn walked in. He gave Legolas a surprised look which dissipated when he realised Legolas was smiling.
"I'm glad you're awake. Thranduil is waiting in the dining hall. He was getting impatient so Elrond asked me to fetch you. I told him he should make him wait but."
Legolas nodded. He looked back to his reflection in the mirror. It didn't have the usual joy and carelessness that Legolas usually carried with him. He didn't have that beautiful glow that only Elves had. His face was pale and drawn and there were black circles around his eyes through lack of sleep. As he looked at him image he couldn't help but remember the days when his biggest worry was whether him and Aragorn were going to make it home in time or not. Things had changed so much. Now his once perfect face and body were rapidly being corrupted by the poison that was rushing through his blood stream.
Aragorn moved behind Legolas' frail body and looked in the mirror. Legolas' eyes were slightly clouded because of the grief, pain and shame, and the strongest thing of all, regret. Aragorn wrapped his arms around the shaking form and kissed him lightly on the cheek.
"You cannot see your heart in the mirror mellon nin, nor can you see the hope."
"I don't believe there is any hope here." Legolas lowered his head
"I'm right here." Aragorn whispered and squeezed Legolas slightly to emphasise the point.
Legolas smiled. "I know Estel."
"Come on, you know how much your father hates to be kept waiting."
They walked through the halls with Aragorn holding Legolas around the waist for support. Legolas didn't object to this knowing Aragorn wasn't going to leave him alone. After they left their room Legolas had asked Aragorn to stay with him during dinner. He didn't want to face his father alone in his present state. He was surprised at how tired he still was. He hoped his father wouldn't notice how tired he was, Legolas hated to look weak, especially in front of his father.
When they reached the doors to the dining hall they stopped, Aragorn let go of Legolas, making sure he could really stand on his own before fully moving away. Both Legolas and Aragorn didn't want to make the visit by Thranduil any harder than it already was by any obvious displays of affection.
Before Aragorn opened the doors Legolas took a deep breath to prepare himself. He was both nervous and excited about seeing his father again. He looked over at Aragorn who gave him a supportive nod, hoping he would not appear as nervous as he really was. What happened last time they had seen Thranduil together was still at the front of his mind. Finally Aragorn swung the door open and walked into the dining hall.
Thranduil, Elrond and the twins were already sat at the table talking quite happily when Aragorn and Legolas walked in, on their arrival all at the table looked up. It was Elrond who broke the uneasy silence and saved Legolas from his father's awkward stare.
"Estel, Legolas. Please sit down and join us. You must be hungry." He pointed to the two empty places at the table.
He had made sure Legolas was facing his father but was not directly opposite. He didn't want the Prince to be made any more uncomfortable and certainly didn't want Thranduil starting an argument with his son when he was in such a fragile state. Unfortunately he doubted whether his method would keep Thranduil quiet throughout the meal.
Legolas and Aragorn approached the table cautiously, not wanting Thranduil to make any comment they let go of each other's hands but Aragorn made sure he stayed close to Legolas just in case he should need help. Luckily they got to their seats without incident. Thranduil said nothing for a while but just looked at Legolas with his usual cold stare whilst Legolas tried desperately to avoid those eyes and concentrated on forcing himself to eat the food Lord Elrond had provided. He knew how much his father hated him to be rude and not accepting the food from their host was something that would certainly displease Thranduil.
Elrond and Aragorn watched this and tried to make conversation about Mirkwood to try and lighten the mood that had descended over the room. Thranduil was not deterred by this though and whenever Elrond asked a polite question he merely received that same icy glare from the King. Both Aragorn and Legolas were wishing something could happen that would break the awkward silence that hung over the room. Every now and then there would be a playful comment made by one or both of the twins but even their attempts failed although Legolas appreciated the effort.
Aragorn was keeping a watchful eye on Legolas and could easily see his unease about the situation even though he tried to hide it. He avoided his father's gaze at all costs and occasionally glanced over to Aragorn who gave him a smile or nod of support and encouragement. This went on for quite a while. Everyone at the table attempting to make polite conversation except Legolas and Thranduil. The King was too busy glaring at his son and Legolas too busy avoiding those searching eyes.
Eventually after a particularly long silence Thranduil spoke.
"It was good of you to send word about your condition Legolas." He stared at his son without expression. "I assume you thought it appropriate that it should be left to Lord Elrond to do this unpleasant task for you." The anger was growing in his voice.
"Father it wasn't like that I." The look Thranduil shot him made him stop. He looked down at his plate, once more avoiding his father's stare.
"Legolas was unable to send you word earlier. It was he that requested that the news should be sent to you. That you should be thankful for." Elrond said looking Thranduil directly in the eye.
"This is not your concern. Stay out of the affairs of my family for you know nothing." Thranduil shouted.
"I am the one that has looked after your family when you refused to do so. I sat at your son's bedside in place of his own father, who he wanted there."
"How dare you insult the King of Mirkwood. You haven't done much to make him well again." Thranduil continued to rant and come up with as many insults as possible.
Legolas continued to look down at his plate wishing this wasn't happening. Aragorn got up and stood behind him and put his hands on Legolas' stooped shoulders. He whispered gentle words of comfort to him hoping it would release the tension. Elladan and Elrohir were sat quietly also wishing the argument between the two Lords would stop.
"You cannot even look after your own children so how could you possibly look after my son?" Thranduil shouted. Both wee now standing and glaring at each other.
Legolas couldn't believe what he had just heard. He suddenly stood up forcing Aragorn to take a surprised step back.
"Father, that is enough. Lord Elrond has been better to me than I probably deserved. He has taken me into his home, taken care of me and treated me better than you could ever have done. He may never know how grateful I am to him for this." Legolas forced himself to calm down and level his voice. "He has been good to me and I know he is a good father so don't speak of him so." Legolas' anger began to rise again.
Thranduil stood speechless, as did Elrond and everyone else around the table.
"You are confused Legolas. Do not speak if you cannot do so properly." Thranduil said through clenched teeth. "If you did not want me here then why did you ask me?"
"Because I thought you could be my father." Legolas' voice softened. "Because I thought you could be with me like a father is supposed to be." The tears hidden behind his eyes were not so well hidden in his voice. "I thought you could love me as your own son rather than a disappointment." He whispered.
Everyone was looking at Legolas totally speechless. They had never heard the Prince talk like that before, not even Aragorn.
"But now I realise that that will never happen. You should not blame Elrond for this. It was not his fault. Nor should you insult his family."
Thranduil finally found his voice again, and his anger.
"Who should I blame then? If not Lord Elrond then who? Let me guess this was Aragorn's doing. Why am I not surprised? I always said this human would be a bad thing for you. I was right." Both Elrond and Aragorn had to work very hard to containing their anger.
"Don't blame Aragorn, leave him out of this. It wasn't his fault." Legolas shouted, reaching for Aragorn's hand and squeezing it tightly. "I would rather be with him than you any day. At least he is there for me."
"You're still so naive Legolas. You stay in Imladris thinking these people are your friends and family. Grow up Legolas, they're not. I am and you will not talk to me so."
"Elrond has been a better friend and father to me than you could ever be and Imladris is my home. May I never have to lay my eyes on you or Mirkwood again."
At this everyone in the room, especially Thranduil, was shocked. None said anything.
After sending an angry look to everyone at the table, Legolas mostly, Thranduil slammed his fist down on the table making everyone jump and stormed out of the room. On leaving he shouted.
"This was a waste of my time. Do not call on me again."
Once Thranduil had left, slamming the door behind him the whole room was silent. Legolas was staring vacantly at the table. Only now did Elrond notice how incredibly pale he was and when he reached out and gently touched his hand, he felt the blonde Elf shaking. Legolas snapped out of his trance and looked around. He turned to Elrond and his eyes conveyed a deeper sorrow than his words could ever express. He turned to leave but wavered slightly and Aragorn was instantly supporting him. He silently thanked the man and turned back around to Elrond.
"Please forgive me. I was not expecting him to behave like this." His voice was weak but he was trying to keep from crying. "Please excuse me. I'm tired. I need." Before he could finish his sentence his legs buckled beneath him and he collapsed into Aragorn who grabbed him and quickly lifted him into his arms. He reached up and felt Legolas' forehead but pulled away when he felt the unnatural heat. He could feel Legolas shaking and held him tighter.
"Ada, he has a fever." Elrond walked around and put his hand on Legolas' forehead. "Father, please don't let him die. Not yet."
The plea came out more as a sob, which snapped Elrond into action. "Take him to his room, quickly. Elladan and Elrohir, fetch some herbs from downstairs. Hurry." Elrond and Aragorn were already heading for the door as he shouted the instructions.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
A/N: Wynjara: Thanks so much for the review. Enjoy the rest.
Emily: Wow, thank you so much. I always love getting good reviews and I really appreciate them. I hope you continue to read and enjoy (and review of course).
A/N: Sorry to any Thranduil fans out there. He's not nice in this fic.
Ch 14 A father's Wrath
The next two weeks were mostly spent preparing for Thranduil's arrival. It was clear that no one was really looking forward to it but Legolas wanted to see his father so most people were happy to pretend that they didn't mind. Aragorn and Legolas spent most of their days in the gardens of Rivendell. Aragorn usually read to Legolas under their favourite tree whilst Legolas rested. They had announced their marriage plans days before Thranduil was due to arrive and Elrond had appeared genuinely happy for them. Elrond had also been keeping a close eye on Legolas who had been steadily deteriorating, no more than was expected. He had stayed up with him when the pain had been too much and Aragorn had been too tired. He had become more and more like Legolas' father, a job that he didn't dislike at all.
The day of Thranduil's arrival came and Legolas was looking forward to seeing his father again but was also more nervous about what he would say about the marriage when he learned of it.
That morning Legolas woke up early and got dressed in his best tunic. He was careful not to wake Aragorn who had stayed with him that night. He kissed the ranger gently before going out to the balcony, holding the railing for support. He looked out at Imladris and breathed in the fresh morning air, he loved the mornings, they were always so clean and crisp.
"Legolas?" Aragorn asked sleepily as he walked out onto the balcony searching for his lover. "What are you doing? You should be resting."
"I know. I just wanted some fresh air." Aragorn moved behind him and held him tightly around his chest. Legolas leaned against him and closed his eyes. He felt himself leaning heavily against his lover and realised he was nearly falling asleep. Aragorn didn't say anything when Legolas moved away and sat down on a chair. He closed his eyes and drank in the morning air, thinking about how good it would be to see his father again. He began to fall into sleep and allowed it to take him. Aragorn smiled and went back into the room to get dressed. He chose his best tunic, which complimented Legolas', he wanted to impress Thranduil when he arrived, this was the least he could do. He wasn't looking forward to it but Legolas needed his father so it was worth it. He was just making the bed when Elrond came in. He smiled and went over to help his son.
"Where is Legolas?" Elrond asked whilst helping his son.
"He's on the balcony sleeping. He didn't get much sleep last night, as usual." Aragorn looked towards the balcony.
"I'm afraid he's running out of time. He's getting weaker."
"I know." Aragorn sighed. "He's looking forward to seeing Thranduil. I wish I could say the same."
"I know how you feel but we have to try and make him feel welcome, if only for Legolas' sake. It's nice to see you're already making the effort." Elrond pointed towards Aragorn's best tunic. "If nothing else than for Legolas." Aragorn nodded.
"He's looking forward to seeing his father. I just hope Thranduil isn't too hard on him. I don't think he could handle that right now, he needs to know his father's supportive of him."
Elrond nodded. "I will let Thranduil know this, I don't want him upsetting Legolas, not now."
Just then they heard a small cry from the balcony, they instantly ran out where Legolas was. He had his eyes closed as if he was sleeping but he was rolling his head from side to side and muttering nonsense. He looked pale and when Aragorn touched his hand he was hot and shaking. Elrond touched Legolas' forehead and felt how hot he was. The two were concerned but this was something that happened quite often. All they could do was bring his temperature down and wait. Unfortunately after he was calm he usually ended up completely exhausted.
Aragorn gently picked Legolas up, holding him tightly as he tried to struggle free. Legolas calmed when Aragorn whispered reassuringly to him. Legolas put his head against Aragorn's shoulder and laid still. Aragorn carried him through into the room.
"Estel?" Legolas whimpered. "Estel." He almost cried.
"It's alright Legolas. You're fine." Aragorn soothed.
Aragorn carefully placed Legolas on the bed and Elrond brought a cold cloth and placed it on Legolas' forehead. He left the room, giving Aragorn a reassuring look before he left. Aragorn nodded his thanks and stayed next to Legolas. He hoped his lover would be better by the time his father came.
Aragorn sat with him until he finally woke up in early afternoon. As Legolas opened he saw Aragorn watching him.
"Aragorn, what happened?"
"You're alright, just relax." Aragorn tried to calm Legolas who was trying to sit up. "You need to rest." Legolas laid back down in submission, knowing that he couldn't go anywhere even if he wanted to. He suddenly sat up again when he remembered what day it was.
"Is my father here yet? I don't want him to see me like this. I don't want him to think.to think I'm weak."
"Legolas, you are not weak, understand? What is happening to you is not your fault. Your father will understand that. And so will everyone else."
"You remember what happened last time we went to see him in Mirkwood. He threw us out."
"That won't happen again Legolas. Your father loves you. I don't think."
"I want him to be my father Aragorn." Legolas laid back down as he said this. He closed his eyes and was asleep as soon as his head hit the pillow. Aragorn sighed and placed a blanket over the sleeping Elf. He sat with Legolas until he was sure he was asleep, then left, he had things to do before he met Thranduil again.
**
When Thranduil arrived at Imladris Elrond was there to greet him and was surprised to see that he didn't look at all worried. He had stated very clearly in his message sent to Mirkwood how serious Legolas' condition was and yet the King didn't look at all concerned. Elrond waited at the gates, it was true to say that he was not looking forward to Thranduil's visit, he hoped the King wouldn't be too upset with him although he didn't doubt that he would be upset about Legolas' sudden deterioration that day.
Elrond walked over to where Thranduil was dismounting his horse. He bowed as Thranduil approached him and the King hastily returned the gesture out of necessity rather than politeness.
"Welcome King Thranduil. It has been many years since you set foot in Imladris and I hope your stay will be pleasurable."
"I have not come for pleasure or to listen to your mumblings I came here to see my son. You said he was ill. I rushed over here so it had better be important." Thranduil was already walking the entrance of Elrond's house.
"If you will allow me to show you to the library so we may discuss your son's condition." Elrond said politely, trying to control his temper, he knew that was going to be difficult.
"I came for my son."
"Legolas is not well at the moment. He is sleeping and should not be disturbed. I will tell you what is wrong and you can see him when he wakes."
Thranduil stopped and looked over at Elrond furiously, he looked as though he was about to say something but Elrond's determined look stopped him. He nodded and Elrond led them towards the library glad that he had successfully avoided his first possible confrontation with the King.
**
Legolas woke to find that Aragorn was no longer watching over him. He looked about hoping to find him somewhere in the room. Legolas sighed and laid back down when he realised Aragorn wasn't there. He closed his eyes and tried to get rid of that annoying pounding in his head. He always felt like this after one of his attacks and he hated it, this was worse than the others though, they had been getting stronger and stronger. He suddenly sat up, remembering that his father was coming. He glanced out the open window. It was almost mid-day. Legolas practically jumped out of bed and ran to the mirror, as best he could. He smoothed his clothes and quickly tidied his hair hoping it looked presentable enough for his father.
As he was doing this Aragorn walked in. He gave Legolas a surprised look which dissipated when he realised Legolas was smiling.
"I'm glad you're awake. Thranduil is waiting in the dining hall. He was getting impatient so Elrond asked me to fetch you. I told him he should make him wait but."
Legolas nodded. He looked back to his reflection in the mirror. It didn't have the usual joy and carelessness that Legolas usually carried with him. He didn't have that beautiful glow that only Elves had. His face was pale and drawn and there were black circles around his eyes through lack of sleep. As he looked at him image he couldn't help but remember the days when his biggest worry was whether him and Aragorn were going to make it home in time or not. Things had changed so much. Now his once perfect face and body were rapidly being corrupted by the poison that was rushing through his blood stream.
Aragorn moved behind Legolas' frail body and looked in the mirror. Legolas' eyes were slightly clouded because of the grief, pain and shame, and the strongest thing of all, regret. Aragorn wrapped his arms around the shaking form and kissed him lightly on the cheek.
"You cannot see your heart in the mirror mellon nin, nor can you see the hope."
"I don't believe there is any hope here." Legolas lowered his head
"I'm right here." Aragorn whispered and squeezed Legolas slightly to emphasise the point.
Legolas smiled. "I know Estel."
"Come on, you know how much your father hates to be kept waiting."
They walked through the halls with Aragorn holding Legolas around the waist for support. Legolas didn't object to this knowing Aragorn wasn't going to leave him alone. After they left their room Legolas had asked Aragorn to stay with him during dinner. He didn't want to face his father alone in his present state. He was surprised at how tired he still was. He hoped his father wouldn't notice how tired he was, Legolas hated to look weak, especially in front of his father.
When they reached the doors to the dining hall they stopped, Aragorn let go of Legolas, making sure he could really stand on his own before fully moving away. Both Legolas and Aragorn didn't want to make the visit by Thranduil any harder than it already was by any obvious displays of affection.
Before Aragorn opened the doors Legolas took a deep breath to prepare himself. He was both nervous and excited about seeing his father again. He looked over at Aragorn who gave him a supportive nod, hoping he would not appear as nervous as he really was. What happened last time they had seen Thranduil together was still at the front of his mind. Finally Aragorn swung the door open and walked into the dining hall.
Thranduil, Elrond and the twins were already sat at the table talking quite happily when Aragorn and Legolas walked in, on their arrival all at the table looked up. It was Elrond who broke the uneasy silence and saved Legolas from his father's awkward stare.
"Estel, Legolas. Please sit down and join us. You must be hungry." He pointed to the two empty places at the table.
He had made sure Legolas was facing his father but was not directly opposite. He didn't want the Prince to be made any more uncomfortable and certainly didn't want Thranduil starting an argument with his son when he was in such a fragile state. Unfortunately he doubted whether his method would keep Thranduil quiet throughout the meal.
Legolas and Aragorn approached the table cautiously, not wanting Thranduil to make any comment they let go of each other's hands but Aragorn made sure he stayed close to Legolas just in case he should need help. Luckily they got to their seats without incident. Thranduil said nothing for a while but just looked at Legolas with his usual cold stare whilst Legolas tried desperately to avoid those eyes and concentrated on forcing himself to eat the food Lord Elrond had provided. He knew how much his father hated him to be rude and not accepting the food from their host was something that would certainly displease Thranduil.
Elrond and Aragorn watched this and tried to make conversation about Mirkwood to try and lighten the mood that had descended over the room. Thranduil was not deterred by this though and whenever Elrond asked a polite question he merely received that same icy glare from the King. Both Aragorn and Legolas were wishing something could happen that would break the awkward silence that hung over the room. Every now and then there would be a playful comment made by one or both of the twins but even their attempts failed although Legolas appreciated the effort.
Aragorn was keeping a watchful eye on Legolas and could easily see his unease about the situation even though he tried to hide it. He avoided his father's gaze at all costs and occasionally glanced over to Aragorn who gave him a smile or nod of support and encouragement. This went on for quite a while. Everyone at the table attempting to make polite conversation except Legolas and Thranduil. The King was too busy glaring at his son and Legolas too busy avoiding those searching eyes.
Eventually after a particularly long silence Thranduil spoke.
"It was good of you to send word about your condition Legolas." He stared at his son without expression. "I assume you thought it appropriate that it should be left to Lord Elrond to do this unpleasant task for you." The anger was growing in his voice.
"Father it wasn't like that I." The look Thranduil shot him made him stop. He looked down at his plate, once more avoiding his father's stare.
"Legolas was unable to send you word earlier. It was he that requested that the news should be sent to you. That you should be thankful for." Elrond said looking Thranduil directly in the eye.
"This is not your concern. Stay out of the affairs of my family for you know nothing." Thranduil shouted.
"I am the one that has looked after your family when you refused to do so. I sat at your son's bedside in place of his own father, who he wanted there."
"How dare you insult the King of Mirkwood. You haven't done much to make him well again." Thranduil continued to rant and come up with as many insults as possible.
Legolas continued to look down at his plate wishing this wasn't happening. Aragorn got up and stood behind him and put his hands on Legolas' stooped shoulders. He whispered gentle words of comfort to him hoping it would release the tension. Elladan and Elrohir were sat quietly also wishing the argument between the two Lords would stop.
"You cannot even look after your own children so how could you possibly look after my son?" Thranduil shouted. Both wee now standing and glaring at each other.
Legolas couldn't believe what he had just heard. He suddenly stood up forcing Aragorn to take a surprised step back.
"Father, that is enough. Lord Elrond has been better to me than I probably deserved. He has taken me into his home, taken care of me and treated me better than you could ever have done. He may never know how grateful I am to him for this." Legolas forced himself to calm down and level his voice. "He has been good to me and I know he is a good father so don't speak of him so." Legolas' anger began to rise again.
Thranduil stood speechless, as did Elrond and everyone else around the table.
"You are confused Legolas. Do not speak if you cannot do so properly." Thranduil said through clenched teeth. "If you did not want me here then why did you ask me?"
"Because I thought you could be my father." Legolas' voice softened. "Because I thought you could be with me like a father is supposed to be." The tears hidden behind his eyes were not so well hidden in his voice. "I thought you could love me as your own son rather than a disappointment." He whispered.
Everyone was looking at Legolas totally speechless. They had never heard the Prince talk like that before, not even Aragorn.
"But now I realise that that will never happen. You should not blame Elrond for this. It was not his fault. Nor should you insult his family."
Thranduil finally found his voice again, and his anger.
"Who should I blame then? If not Lord Elrond then who? Let me guess this was Aragorn's doing. Why am I not surprised? I always said this human would be a bad thing for you. I was right." Both Elrond and Aragorn had to work very hard to containing their anger.
"Don't blame Aragorn, leave him out of this. It wasn't his fault." Legolas shouted, reaching for Aragorn's hand and squeezing it tightly. "I would rather be with him than you any day. At least he is there for me."
"You're still so naive Legolas. You stay in Imladris thinking these people are your friends and family. Grow up Legolas, they're not. I am and you will not talk to me so."
"Elrond has been a better friend and father to me than you could ever be and Imladris is my home. May I never have to lay my eyes on you or Mirkwood again."
At this everyone in the room, especially Thranduil, was shocked. None said anything.
After sending an angry look to everyone at the table, Legolas mostly, Thranduil slammed his fist down on the table making everyone jump and stormed out of the room. On leaving he shouted.
"This was a waste of my time. Do not call on me again."
Once Thranduil had left, slamming the door behind him the whole room was silent. Legolas was staring vacantly at the table. Only now did Elrond notice how incredibly pale he was and when he reached out and gently touched his hand, he felt the blonde Elf shaking. Legolas snapped out of his trance and looked around. He turned to Elrond and his eyes conveyed a deeper sorrow than his words could ever express. He turned to leave but wavered slightly and Aragorn was instantly supporting him. He silently thanked the man and turned back around to Elrond.
"Please forgive me. I was not expecting him to behave like this." His voice was weak but he was trying to keep from crying. "Please excuse me. I'm tired. I need." Before he could finish his sentence his legs buckled beneath him and he collapsed into Aragorn who grabbed him and quickly lifted him into his arms. He reached up and felt Legolas' forehead but pulled away when he felt the unnatural heat. He could feel Legolas shaking and held him tighter.
"Ada, he has a fever." Elrond walked around and put his hand on Legolas' forehead. "Father, please don't let him die. Not yet."
The plea came out more as a sob, which snapped Elrond into action. "Take him to his room, quickly. Elladan and Elrohir, fetch some herbs from downstairs. Hurry." Elrond and Aragorn were already heading for the door as he shouted the instructions.
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