Things were starting to get better. Tauriel still lurked around the palace unseen (yet) and Legolas and Valdhiel were healing. They were both constantly worrying over the other and always looking after eachother.

Valdhiel was fully healed, and each night she had less and less nightmares. It wasn't completely out of her mind, but it certainly wasn't always there. There were only some things that triggered flashbacks that caused her to swallow thickly. She tried her best to push aside, after all she wanted to forget. They thought all was well in the kingdom until one made a discovery.

Thranduils POV

I was sitting in my room finishing papers when I suddenly felt a movement in the hallway. I peeked out and saw a red headed mane lurking through the castle. I followed curiously grabbing my sword just incase. She walked faster and suddenly disappeared.  I looked around and followed the path I took. I finally gave up and headed back to my room thinking nothing of it. A sudden knock pulled me away from the papers as a servant entered with a glass of wine.

"You requested red wine?" She spoke

"Just leave it there thank you." I spoke bored. She quickly bowed her head and left. I took a large gulp of much needed red wine and thought for a moment. There isn't a single lady in this kingdom that bows, they always curtsy.

It was Tauriel.

She was after me why? To traumatize Legolas some more? To get rid of me and Valadhiel? Revenge?

I had to warn Legolas, for Valdhiels sake. Suddenly I felt sick to the bone,and I dropped the cup of red wine.

Tauriel poisoned me

I rang the bell as servants rushed me to the hospital wing immediately trying to help me.

Legolas's POV

Valdhiel and I were walking through the gardens when a servant boy came running

"Your highness. Go to the hospital wing now! Your father is dying. "  I grabbed my wife's hand and ran like there was no tomorrow.

"Ada! I'm here!" I panted clutching his hand.

"Son-"

"Shhh let me take care of you-"

"Listen to me!"he coughed and whispered so only I could hear. "Your wife, may be in danger again, but this time I figured out who."

"But we've been through so much!" I glanced at my angel. "If she gets hurt again, she might break completely. "

"Tauriel is in the castle. She's the one behind it all." Thranduil whispered "look after your love, the kingdom-"

"Don't do this." Tears brimmed at my eyes. "I need you."

"You have your people, but most importantly, your wife and your rock. You do not need me." I felt tears slipping. "Legolas, it's time for you to be who you are meant to be."

"How can I do that without my father, my best friend, my guide and counselor?"

"You have your wife. Believe me son," he coughed "that is more than enough." 

He spoke quietly. "I have never been more proud of you, my son. I love you."

"I love you:"  I spoke

"I would like a word with Valdhiel."

Valdhiels head snapped up as she moved forward.

Valdhiels POV

"Yes?"

"I have never been more proud of you than now. You've become a strong woman and I'm proud to call you my daughter. There is one thing I want you to do."

"Anything." I grabbed his hand

"Look after my son, no matter the cost. Mirkwood needs a king and he will be quite fragile once I'm gone.  Be his rock as he was for you."

"Of course." I nodded wiping tears.

He gripped my hand as I moved forward.

"A word of caution. Don't trust the servants. One is disguised and is behind all of the conspiracy. "

I paled a bit "what are you saying?"

"I'm saying that you need to be prepared at all costs. Always carry a weapon with you. Don't be alone unless you have to. She could have allies."

"She?"

"Who else would hate an angel with a passion?" He asked

Legolas came over as he gripped his father's hand.

"We could find a cure father-"

"No my son, it is time I join your mother. I know that is not easy, but it's time."

We sat in silence just enjoying eachothers company until Thranduils voice was raspy

"I love you my son." He spoke and closed his eyes for the last time.