Fateful Decision
"You must go to Imladris. I want Lord Elrond to know of Gollum's escape," Thranduil said gravely.
"Yes, my Lord. When would you have me leave?"
"Tomorrow morning. And make all possible haste."
"Yes, my Lord."
The young captain of the guard bowed low, and then rose up again, waiting for the words of dismissal. But just as Thranduil was about to give them, he stopped. He was sending his beloved son, his little boy, out beyond the borders of his realm. But Legolas was not so little anymore, and this was a task that could only be done by someone he trusted implicitly. And he trusted Legolas more than anyone else. Walking around the desk, Thranduil came to stand in front of his son.
"Be careful, ion-nin. Stay safe," he said as he gathered Legolas up in his arms. "Come back to me alive."
"I will, Ada. I promise."