A/N: Very short chapter, enjoy~
Part 1: Flee of the Fallen
Chapter 14: Unexpected Summon
Legolas had never been so grateful when the knock on his door finally allowed him to leave his chambers. The dream last night had left him tossing and turning for the rest of the night.
"Enter," he called, sitting up and running a hand through his hair for the hundredth time since he woke up.
A servant elf entered, bowing deeply. "Prince Legolas, your presence is requested in King Thranduil's study."
As he entered the grand room, King Thranduil looked up from his desk and handed him a parchment. "Sent yesterday evening by Elrond's messenger."
It read:
To the Esteemed King Thranduil of the Woodland Realm,
Long has it been since our paths last crossed and our realms exchanged tidings. Though years have passed, the memory of your valor and wisdom remains ever vivid.
I write to you now in the gravest of times, seeking your counsel and aid. A dark shadow has arisen from the depths, one that we have long feared and hoped never to see again. The One Ring, that which binds and controls all others, has been found. This perilous discovery demands the unity and strength of all Free Peoples, for the fate of Middle-earth hangs in the balance.
I summon you, noble Thranduil, or your chosen representative, to a council in Rivendell. Here, we shall deliberate on the course of action to take against the rising threat of Sauron. I beseech you to send forth your son, Prince Legolas, as an emissary of the Woodland Realm. His valor and skill will serve us well in this dire hour.
The council shall convene without delay, for time is of the essence. The wisdom and strength of your people are needed now more than ever.
May the light of the Eldar and the wisdom of the Valar guide you in this time of uncertainty.
In fellowship and hope,
Elrond, Lord of Rivendell
King Thranduil's eyes narrowed slightly as Legolas handed the parchment back. "This is not a great honor," he said dismissively. The king had never been friends with the half-elf lord. "However, we cannot ignore such a summons. You will go to Rivendell, along with a team of guards. You will deliver the message of Gollum's escape and then return immediately. Am I clear?"
Legolas bowed his head in acknowledgment, his voice equally devoid of emotion as it had been for the past thousand years. "I will make ready, father."
He waited as the king poured himself a cup of tea, nobody dare leave the study until the king dismiss. The servants have informed me that you have been acting very strangely lately. They say you mutter to yourself and have not touched the food on your tray. Is there something that troubles you?"
Legolas' jaw tightened, his mind flashing back to the unsettling dreams and sleepless nights. "No, father. I am merely focused on my duties."
No, he will not talk about the shimmering tree.
Last time, his father had thought he was mad.
Mad.
Thranduil dismissed him with a curt nod, and Legolas turned on his heel, leaving the study.
Back in his chamber, Legolas began to pack. A pair of leggings and tunic, Lembas, apples, his circlet, and weapons. Ensuring his bow and arrows were in perfect condition, he fastened the pair of dual knives as well, then headed for the courtyard where the horses were being prepared.
As he put the saddle on his horse, a soft giggle and whisper made him turn around. He inwardly groaned when he saw three court ladies standing at the door, each waving to get his attention.
"Prince Legolas, we hear you are to embark on a grand adventure," one of them said, her voice dripping with admiration. "Must you leave so soon?"
"Yes, my lady," Legolas replied politely, though a wave of disgust washed over him. The court ladies had always sought his favor, but their advances now felt especially unwelcome. "Duty calls."
"Surely you could spare a moment to bid us farewell properly," another lady batted her eyelashes.
Legolas forced a smile. "I assure you, I will return as soon as my duty allows." Not bothering to spend another moment with the court ladies, he turned on his heel and made his way to the team of guards that had been waiting for him.
He didn't miss the smirk on Faelon's face. "Looks like you're going to have more ladies after you in Rivendell, your highness."