Hi--here's another chapter--thanks for reviewing!!

Chapter 17--The Celebration

Legolas stood by a large pillar and watched the crowded ballroom without much interest. The ball was to welcome Jaisia and Legolas back, but he hated formal gatherings. He saw Jaisia talking to Arwen and saw Arwen laugh. He smiled to himself.

"So why are you standing here all alone, sweet cheeks?" a gruff voice asked.

"Because I wish to, fuzzy," Legolas retorted and smiled down at Gimli.

"It's good you're back, Legolas, my friend. I've missed you sorely," Gimli said.

"And I you, but it's over now," Legolas said.

"I suppose, the heir to the throne has returned and has been formally chosen. Still I feel something is wrong about all this," Gimli muttered.

Legolas was startled. He had the same misgivings as Gimli. "I fear the same," he admitted.

"Here comes the princess," Gimli muttered.

The Dwarf and Elf bowed as Sandi came up to them. She looked lovely in a white silk gown with a gold tiara on her head.

"Good evening, Princess Sandi," Gimli said politely.

"And to you, Master Dwarf," Sandi replied. She looked at Legolas. "I am pleased you and Lady Jaisia have returned. I want you to know that I do not blame you for all that happened. It was the mage's fault, we will start anew, Prince Legolas." She walked away gracefully.

Legolas watched her go, now more then before he sensed something was wrong. He looked at Gimli who nodded. The Dwarf felt it too. They silently swore they would keep an eye on things.

Finally dinner was served. Legolas was seated beside Aragorn with Gimli and Jaisia on his other side. Suddenly Legolas had a terrible feeling of foreboding. He glanced at Aragorn who was reaching for his goblet. Legolas had no idea why he did it. He just did. He knocked the goblet over with his elbow before Aragorn got it.

Wine spilled all over the table and the goblet fell to the floor with a clatter. Aragorn gave Legolas a startled look.

""Oh, I'm sorry, Aragorn. It was horribly clumsy of me," Legolas apologized.

Aragorn smiled. "That's all right, my friend, no harm done," he said. Servants scurried to clean up the mess and bring a clean goblet for the King.

Gimli and Jaisia gave Legolas puzzled looks. Legolas just shrugged then glanced at Sandi and a chill went through him. Sandi's eyes were filled with hate, but the look faded as quickly as it had come.

**MEANWHILE**

Lilith awoke with a jerk, heart pounding from the vision she'd been given. She went to the opening of her shelter and asked a young Centaur to fetch Kai immediately. The Centaur dashed off.

Kai came only moments later. "What is wrong, Shamaness?" he asked, seeing how pale and shaken Lilith looked.

"You must go to Minas Tirith and fetch Jaisia and Legolas. Bring them here and do not take no for an answer. The ceremony can not be put off after all-- it must be done quickly. Go Kai and make haste!!" Lilith ordered.

"As you command," Kai said. He whirled and dashed off to gather what he would need. He was on his way in less then an hour.

Back To Cliffhangers!! *Evil Chuckle!!* R/R please!!!!