Sorry, for some reason I couldn't log in to my account earlier. Better late then never I guess!! Welcome back Jade aka Alida-Fruit---I missed you!!

Chapter 13--Time To Leave

Legolas and Jaisia got neatened up and changed before going to the dining hall and taking their places. Much to Legolas' annoyance Deirdre was seated in the chair next to him.

Jaisia scowled at her. Her opinion of Deirdre had changed after what Legolas had told her what had nearly happened last night. "Legolas, would you mind switching spots with me?" she asked innocently.

Legolas gave her a grateful smile. "Of course not," he said and switched with her.

Jaisia leaned closer to Deirdre. "Do not ever lay a hand on Legolas again without permission or you will be drawing back a stump. Centaurs protect their families by whatever means necessary," she hissed just loud enough for Deirdre to hear. She knew Legolas had probably heard her though.

Deirdre managed to keep from reacting, but her eyes were snapping with rage.

"So what are your plans this morn, Prince Legolas?" Jacinth asked.

"I fear Jaisia and I must return to Minas Tirith. King Aragorn will be concerned if we are not back by the time we agreed on," Legolas said politely. "We have enjoyed our stay very much."

"I--see, well, I can certainly understand duty calling you back to your King. I commend your dedication to your duty, both of you," Jacinth said.

"You flatter us both, majesty," Legolas said.

Jacinth just smiled rather coldly and returned to her food.

Legolas and Jaisia made it through the most uncomfortable meal they had ever had before going back up to pack. They were both eager to put this city at their backs.

Legolas was just finishing when the door to the hall opened. He whirled to see Deirdre standing in the doorway. "Do you not know how to knock?" Legolas asked coolly.

"I am sure you realize by now that we are a woman ruled city by now," Deirdre said.

"That thought had come to me, however I am not a citizen of this city so I do not worry about it," Legolas said. "So if you will excuse me. Jaisia should be ready to go by now and we have a long journey ahead of us."

Deirdre didn't leave; instead she came into the room fully and closed the door. "Do you know what Tol Aither is?" she asked.

"Nay and I no longer care since we are leaving," Legolas said.

"It simply means that I am intending to take you to my bed and that will decide whether or not I wish to claim you as my husband," Deirdre said.

"I have no interest in becoming your husband and I have no interest in going to your bed," Legolas said.

"You have no say in this. I decide all of this," Deirdre said. She moved closer to him, looming over him.

Legolas' hand closed around the hilt of one of his daggers instinctively. He started when Deirdre seized his hand, making sure he couldn't let go of the hilt. "Release me!" he snapped.

Deirdre kept his hand caught firmly in hers and drew the dagger out so they were both holding the naked blade. "Your warrior instincts have led you right into my trap, golden one," she smirked. She stabbed the dagger brutally into her shoulder then backhanded Legolas viciously across the face. He went sprawling, nose bleeding from the blow. "Guards! Guards! Come to me quickly!!" she shouted.

Three guards charged into the room to see Deirdre with a dagger in her shoulder--bleeding. "My lady, what has happened here?" one asked.

"This cur lured me in here, flirting with me then he stabbed me!" Deirdre yelled, pointing at Legolas.

"I did not attack you!" Legolas protested. He got back to his feet, enraged at her blatant lies.

"Liar!! Arrest him for attempted murder!!" Deirdre accused. "Bring the Centaur and him to the throne room. She may be involved in this!!"

One led Deirdre out so a healer could look at her shoulder while the other two moved in on Legolas with drawn weapons….

I love it!! Such a darned, dirty trick!! This wasn't what I'd planned at first, but it came to me earlier!! I love twists!!!! R/R or Jaisia will come live with you!!!