Thanks for all the input. I promise the story will get better.
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Chapter 3: A Father and Son Reunited.
Legolas started to go after Azura and Gimli, but Thranduil stopped him. "Come with me my son. There is something I wish to discuss with you."
He led Legolas to the courtyard and began pacing the gardens. Legolas seated himself on one of the stone benches. "What did you wish to talk about father?"
"That servant girl Azura. For some reason she's been working so hard. She goes to sleep to late and then she so tired in the morning. I'm sad to say that I'm thinking of letting her go. She's no good to me anymore."
"What do you mean let her go?"
"I mean to send her away from Mirkwood."
"Father you can't do that," Legolas cried jumping to his feet. "If you were to get rid of her you'd realize how important she is. She's been here as long as I have. You wouldn't get rid of me just I was no good, would you ada?"
"Of course not Legolas. You're my son she's a servant. There is big difference in your ranks."
"I don't see a difference. If you were to get rid of her I'm sure in time you would miss her just as much as the rest of us. Besides she's the only friend I have," Legolas said unaware of the tears that came to his eyes or what he said.
Thranduil looked at him a minute, then sighed. "So you mean to say that a servant girl has become your friend?" Legolas nodded. "Well then I have no authority to stop a friendship. Fine then, but I want you watching out for her. See why it is that she works so much during the day. I can't afford a tired servant on my grounds."
Legolas wiped his eyes with his sleeve. "Thank you ada."
"Your welcome. I wouldn't want to do anything that made you upset. What kind of father would do that to their child?"
Legolas went over to him and placed a hand on Thranduil's shoulder. "A father that isn't you. Now if you'd like I'll share all my adventures with you."
"Well I am curious to know what kept you away for so long. I thought you were only going to tell Elrond about Gollum. Did you?"
"No, actually I didn't…" They sat down and Legolas explained everything. Thranduil was very interested and asked many questions. The sun set into the west and the moon rose into the sky. "…So now I'm back and ready for a rest. I can't remember what it's like sleeping in a real bed."
Thranduil laughed. "Well then, I suggest you go and get some rest. But I'm sure others are interested in knowing what happened. How about we host a feast for the village tomorrow night so everyone can hear your story?"
"I'd like that. Good night father."
"Good night my son."
They shared a strong hug and then Legolas headed for the door while Thranduil sat on the bench twirling a flower in his fingers.
To be continued…