Well, at last here it is, hope this goes well--Enjoy all!!

Discaimer--everything you reconize as Tolkein's isn't mine--I'm just borrowing them and I make nothing from this!!

Hope Of Alliance

Chapter 1--Royalty Meets Royalty

Legolas and Jaisia followed the servant through the halls. Servants stared and whispered as they passed by, much to Jaisia's delight. Legolas ignored it; he was enjoying the subdued décor. It wasn't gaudy or overdone like most castles. Some of the paintings were fascinating. He promised himself he would take a closer look at them later.

They came to a large set of double doors. The wood was polished, but lacked the fancy carvings usually done on wood. The servant pushed them open easily. "Enter, my Lord, my Lady. Queen Jacinth awaits you," he said.

Legolas and Jaisia did and the doors were closed behind them. They approached the throne and stopped a proper distance away then Legolas bowed and Jaisia curtsied.

"Please rise, welcome to Tyr Gyleth, I am Queen Jacinth," the woman on the throne said. "I believe you have all ready met my sister."

"I am Prince Legolas of Mirkwood," Legolas said politely.

"I am Jaisia of the centaur clan of Ironhoof," Jaisia said.

"I am honored to meet you," Jacinth said. She smiled at Legolas. "It is an honor to have one of elvenkind under my roof. Deirdre has told me that Sarrin waylaid you. I hope you are unharmed."

"We are fine, your majesty," Legolas said.

"I am glad. There will be a ball and dinner tonight to welcome you. I will look forward to speaking to you there," Jacinth said. "If you will excuse me."

"Of course," Legolas said.

"I will escort our guest back to their rooms," Deirdre volunteered. She led them from the audience chamber. Once outside she smiled wickedly at Legolas. "I did not realize you were an Elf as well as royalty. You intrigue me, Legolas," she whispered. "We will have to have a nice, long private talk later. The first dance tonight is mine."

"I doubt that," Legolas returned as they reached their rooms.

Deirdre smiled. "I do not, see you tonight, golden one," she said and left before Legolas could respond.

"Golden one, that arrogant--" Legolas began then caught himself.

Jaisia giggled. "Now you have two nicknames. I think she likes you," she said.

"The feeling is not mutual," Legolas grumbled. They went into their separate rooms.

Deirdre returned to the throne room. "So what do you think?" she asked.

"I can see why you claimed Tol Aither. He is magnificent," Jacinth admitted. "Just remember that he is a guest here and a diplomat from another city. Do not cause any trouble and be mindful of your actions."

"Do not worry, my sister. I will not do anything harmful to him. I just like seeing those eyes spark when he is annoyed. The fact he is a prince of Elves explains much," Deirdre said. She left to get ready for the ball, vowing she would not let the fair prince ignore her.

At dusk there was a knock at Legolas' door. The servant bowed when Legolas opened it.. "I am to escort you and Lady Jaisia to the ballroom, my Lord," he said.

Legolas got Jaisia and they followed the servant to the ballroom. They were announced at the door after the servant hurried off. After paying their respect to the Queen they were free to mingle.

Deirdre stood at the other side of the room and watched. She frowned when she noticed Jaisia's hand resting on Legolas' arm. I wonder what their relation is. I will find out, she thought. Her eyes roamed over Legolas hotly. He looked stunning in a midnight blue silk shirt and white leggings with high black, leather boots. She grinned, looking forward to the challenge of the chase then the music started. She strode towards Legolas to claim her dance…..

Not a bad start if I say so myself, a little short but I have to go out….R/R please!!!