They were different people; the Prince and Legolas. It hadn't always been so, but in the end it was the way things needed to be.

Legolas was known for his laughter most of all, so loud it had a habit of echoing down the long hallways of their home, so loud his father was often able to track him by it. it. Even if he was not talking he was never still, always there was something to investigate or watch or listen to. He was impossibly empathetic and would try to brighten anyone's day that needed it, and was the only one with the talent to make Thranduil smile with only a look, and laugh with only one word. He liked to sing, dance and play with his friends. He liked to go for long walks with his father, speak with the forest and watch the stars. He was happy, almost always, and willing to give anything a fair shot at friendship. Legolas was in love; with life, friends, family, but least obviously but perhaes most importantly with an Elleth.

The Prince was known for his deadly aim both with a blade and a bow, with archers so loyal they would listen and obey even a whispered command. He was as still as stone, an important skill in order to masquerade as a 'lifeless' branch of the tree's that held him. Sometimes, he appeared so cold he might as well have been stone. Sometimes, it was the only way to stay strong enough to get everyone else to safety, regardless of their wounds, terror, or mourning grief. Always, it was the only way to deliver the killing shot to an elf who was too far gone with the enemy to save. Only the cold detachment allowed him to uphold that horrible promise. He was brave, inspiring, and more determined than what might be good for him. He told every single elf, personally, of their loss. He did not trust anything he did not know. Nothing, and nobody could come before his kingdom.

They were different people; the King and Thranduil. That's how it had always been, the moment the crown came to rest upon his head.

The King was known above all else for being strong; stronger than the evil that took his father, stronger than the grief and troubles that landed upon him like the mountain they lived beneath, stronger than the indifference of their 'allies.' Always stronger than the forces against them. No matter the tide of troubles that came for the wood elves, the King always stood before them, shielding and diverting the rushing waters. He was stubborn and quick to anger, full of words that could cut deeper than any sword and a mind just as sharp. He felt too much, at times seeming to burn with it. Tree's spoke to him more than his elves did, so connected at times it seemed they breathed together. He was somehow more wild and unpredictable than the twisted forest within him and around them, it was the only way.

Thranduil was known above all else for his deep and unconditional love. often mentally associated with the one vow Mereneth made on their wedding day: "being loved by you is to feel warmer and more important than the sun, and I hope to make you feel the same." He was patient, kind, and willing to do nearly anything to help those he cared for. His son meant more to him than the air he breathed, and it showed every time Thranduil looked upon him. He was soft, steadfast, and impossibly welcoming. There was no amount of anger in the world that would convince him to turn on the ones he loved, and nothing to convince him to leave or ignore a problem.

They were a good team.

The Prince and the King, Legolas and Thranduil.

The Prince was silent while the King was deafening, the Prince was quick to act while the King carefully considered options. The Prince kept their home stable, while the King put on a ferocious face for their enemies. The King could not care about each individual, but the Prince ensured they were not forgotten. The Prince was the ice to the Kings fire.

Legolas was the light that brightened the darkened parts of Thranduil's wounded heart, and Thranduil was the patients Legolas needed to feel truly understood and listened to. Thranduil reminded Legolas that not everyone was worthy of the love in his heart, for there are only so many pieces of it to give while Legolas reminded Thranduil that there were always others to find that deserved a piece. Legolas gave Thranduil joy and laughter, while Thranduil brought him peace and reassurance. Thranduil was the calm to Legolas' storm.

They were different people, but made for one another.

...

Thank you so much for reading! This was in honor of Candian Thanksgiving to thank each and everyone one of you for all your love and support.

Thank you!