It came into sight sooner than I would have liked it too. Having a plan was easy enough, carrying it out can be the tricky part. I slowed my walking so I could finish getting myself into the right mindset. I needed to be confident in who I was, they don't know I'm the same person they had just recently thrown into their most secluded dungeon. If I was confident in my mind who I was, my role acting would be more convincing, which is what I needed. The first meeting was the most important, how I would be viewed and seen would start as soon as I came into contact with them, and then my image would be set with how I continued to act.

  I walked up the steps behind two other servants, and through the door I had come from not too long ago. There was someone right inside the doorway who I assumed to be a manager of some sort. He checked the clipboard he was holding as each servant passed. If I screw up on this now... but I wasn't able to finish the thought because the elf that had been in front of me had moved on, I was now the last servant to be checked.

  The ellon standing there was making a note on his paper and has his back to me so he didn't notice I was there at first. This gave me time to take in my surroundings and gave me a few more seconds to feel ready for the role I was about to play.

  The elf had turned around at this point but was still finishing his note, so it wasn't until he looked up could I see his face. No amount of preparing could have warned me for this.

  It took me a second to get my bearings, I had almost forgotten why I was there having been surprised to be face to face with him of all people.

"Are you lost?" he asked with a kind look that didn't seem at all rebuking. Diron, of course it would have been him. I never thought I'd seem him here. To run into Dasia and Dailon's father could rock the boat if I wasn't careful.

 I decided to play it shy to cover up my slight shock. "I-I'm not sure. This is the first time being here and don't know my way yet." I said looking down, hoping every second he would buy it. 

  I didn't know for sure that his newly returned children had kept their word in not saying anything about us. They might have at first, but if their father worked here they would most likely know about us being locked up and may have been upset by the news and said something in hopes to get us out.

"Well that's perfectly understandable. Especially if it's your first time here. The palace can be a very scary and confusing place if you lose your way. What is your name?" Well if he did know, he sure didn't let on which gave me the hope that he didn't know.

"Siliana Yordes."

  He nodded and looked down at the clipboard in his hand using his pencil to go down the list of names. He went through the first page and didn't stop so he went to the next page.

  It was taking a great effort to keep myself in check as he went to the third page. Either the palace has an excessive amount of servants from the valley below or the person I was posing as wasn't on the list.

  I was convinced it wasn't there and started thinking about how I would cover up my mistake when he stopped at the end of the page.

"You're a second maid replacement and an assistant of the cook?" He looked up at me to see if he was right.

  It must have taken me longer than I thought to realize the name was there and process the information because he then prompted me for an answer. "That is your position isn't it?"

  I finally pulled myself together long enough to say, "Yes- Yes it is. I'm sorry, I was thinking about how to get there since I'm new."

  He nodded. "Good. And don't worry about getting there, I can show you where to go and get you a map for future use."

   I was surprised how kind he was to a stranger and said thank you. He nodded again and smiled, then turned around leading me further into the cellar and through the door to the kitchen. It was a little hot and there was pots on the stove and food scattered on the table in preparation for the morning meal.

  In the center of the room at another table was an elf working busily. I assumed he was the cook as we walked towards him. His reaction to knowing our presence was to turn around picking up a pan as if to hit us, while he said, "I told you to-" but he stopped short seeing my surprised expression and Diron's confused one. We were obviously not who he was expecting.

"Oh Diron, I'm sorry I thought you were Gerin and Geron."

  Diron seemed to find this humorous, "Well I hardly think we can compare with twin ten year old ellons," was his witty reply.

"Seeing how mischievous they are and your humorous side I think it would be an exact match if a comparison was indeed made. Although I am not one to know about your friend's nature here." You're right, you don't and never will, was my inward reply while the cook raised his eyebrows in my direction.

"Philippe, this is Siliana," he said turning slightly to me, "She's your assistant and upstairs replacement."

"Well this is a most pleasant surprise. It's a nice change from you telling me that you brought more mouths to be fed by me."

"I wasn't the one who brought the new prisoners in, Tauriel and her guard did. I just told you."

"It means more work just the same no matter who brought them." Then he turned to me, "I'm pleased to meet you Siliana, your help is much needed at this time."

"It's a pleasure for me as well, and I'll do my best to do whatever you need."

"I'm sure you'll do just fine. Now Diron, if you'll excuse us, we need to get breakfast ready."

"Alright Philippe, consider me out of your hair. I'll be back after though to give Siliana a map so she won't get lost."

 With that he walked out and I turned my attention to my new 'boss'. "So what do you need me to do first?"

"Why don't you start putting the dishes of food that are done on those platters over there?" He said while motioning to the table with platters and food.

  I nodded and completed the task with ease. I was the one of the two main cooks back in Rohan, and other times I just assisted the main cook so I had a good amount experience with the art. I also had experience with being a maid which was to my advantage.

  Once I was done, I helped make bread and the rest of the breakfast. Just as we finished, I met some of the other servants that came and collected the platters of food we had made. After a bite to eat, we started cleaning up after the breakfast mess. Diron came back while we were finishing and gave me a map that showed the general layout. It was simple, and with it he assured me that I would know my way in no time.

  We did some inventory of the cellar afterwards, and then Philippe and me worked on the noon meal. We had some small talk while working. It resulted in me finding out that Philippe's parents were dead and he had two sisters who worked here in the palace as well. He was quite the interesting character and very skilled in the kitchen.

  Philippe told me that after lunch the prisoners would get lembas that would last them the week and the water would be changed every night. He warned me that we would only be making the food, but taking it to them. Only Tauriel, the captain of the guard, was allowed to be near the prisoners, especially the secluded one, besides the King of course.

  He informed me that they were a very dangerous bunch and to stay away from the dungeons. I promised I would, and after the lunch dishes I went upstairs to 'clean'. I really went to the dungeons from a back way and slipped into my cell and put my dark clothes overtop my servant outfit.

  Not to long after doing this Tauriel came, true to Philippe's word, with lembas and water. She said nothing to me, although I could tell she was dying to know how on earth I was going to get out of here.

  After I was sure she was gone, I took them off again and laid them as before to look like a person lying on the bed. I left the lonely cell and got back upstairs into the hall I was suppose to do work in with no difficulty. I was to sweep and do some minor cleaning. It didn't take me very long and I soon returned to the kitchen.

  Philippe was already working in the kitchen on dinner which would be in a few hours. "Oh Siliana, good timing. You're done with your other work right?" I told him yes and he continued, "Good. Would you mind taking the tray over there on the table with the wine up to the king's quarters? The other servants are working in various places in the palace and I'm too busy right now to do it myself."

  Absolutely not, I'm trying to stay far away from him not get closer, were my thoughts. But I couldn't really say no. Thankfully, Philippe was too busy to notice my lack of immediate response.

"Of course. I'll be back soon." I said while picking up the tray with the pitcher of wine and two wooden goblets with intricate carvings on them.

  I knew enough to get to the king's chambers without the map and moved swiftly. As I approached the stairs that lead down into his chambers, I could hear voices coming from them. It seemed that they were discussing the curious appearance of a mysterious group clad in black, still unmasked laying now in their dungeons.

"We don't even know who they are. They could be men, easterlings, who knows maybe even elves! But we don't know who they are, or if they're on our side or evil's. It seems as if they have helped many people, but they also seem to be on the dark side. Always in the shadows, and they seem to have the tendency to be where trouble is." Said the voice.

"The question is, are they creating the trouble or trying to stop it?" the king replied.

"That a question that is yet to be answered my lord. I don't like the look of them though. We also should consider the possibility of them not being human at all."

    I had then reached the end of the stairs and entered into the room. I then saw that the other voice belonged to Elros. I was hoping that he didn't recognize me since we had met briefly before in Lorien and Rivendell. The disadvantage to playing the role of someone else is that you can only change yourself so much. The main thing people recognized when they saw me was my eyes. How many times I had wished that I could change the color of my eyes, I had no idea. They turned blue sometimes when I was close to my prey, but that was absolutely out of the question.

Well I can't do anything about it now, I went to the table next to them quietly.

Thranduil seemed to be taking Elros's suggestion seriously and answered him while I set the tray down smoothly.

"Then what do you propose they are?" he asked seeming slightly hesitant, probably afraid of what Elros's answer would be.

"Well I'm not sure exactly, with the way they disappear so fast, being there one second and the next gone. The only thing that would make sense would be for them to be spirits or ghosts. Maybe even wraiths." The way Elros's voice sounded so grave and serious humored me and I had a hard time holding back my laughter.

  I was close, but the smile sort of smirk still slipped. I was about to turn away when something caught my wrist. It was another hand, one that belonged to Elros.

"Hold on there, who are you?"

"I'm a servant." I stated dryly.

"Why are you here?"

"To serve the wine that was requested. It's right behind you." I had to admit that Elros's face was quite comical to watch. He seemed surprised at first, and then insulted that I had told him what was obvious.

 Having pointed out the wine Thranduil poured himself a glass and seemed to be content with it, therefore not really paying attention to anything.

"You think you're pretty witty don't you?"

"If that's what you think, then I suppose I am." This answer seemed to anger Elros even more. I really should be trying to get out of there, but I was having too much fun having the upper hand over Elros.

"Since you obviously think this is so witty, do you also then think that the conversation between the king and I is always witty?"

"I haven't heard all the conversation, only that you think our prisoners are spirits." In saying that I couldn't help the slight smile that came. I quickly changed my expression, but Elros's elven eyes had seen it.

"So you do think it's witty!" He said with his anger rising, and his grip on wrist tightening.

"I might. Can you please let go of my wrist?" I wanted to end this before it turned into a scene, even though Thranduil wasn't paying attention, it would still be remembered and my disappearance would be noticed more.

"No, I'm not finished."

"I'm perfectly capable of staying until you're done." Elros went on as if he hadn't heard me.

"Do you think it's funny that they're spirits because you know what they really are?!" Elros's eyes started to become wild and I knew that there was no way there would be no scene.

"No!" I decided the only way to get out of this scene was to be the innocent victim.

"You're their inside person aren't you?"

"N-no. I've never seen them."

"How can you know who they are without seeing them?" Elros took a few steps forward and I took a few back in accordance.

"I already told you I don't know them." My mind raced, and I started to think of a close friend I had lost so that my eyes would start to water.

"Yes you do. In fact you help them get passed our borders." He took another step forward and I did the opposite.

"N-nooo!"

"What was the plan? That in exchange for helping them get into the palace so they could assassinate king, you'd get a share in the loot? Was that it?" Elros stepped forward again, backing me against the wall.

"Noooo! I would never even think let alone do such a thing! I don't know them!" I was now able to make a tear or two fall. I had to be pitiful enough for the king to notice before Elros throws me in prison. Things would become more complicated then I'd care for if I was supposed to be in two cells at once, plus my servant act would go down the drain as soon as the bars shut.

"What are their names?" He tightened his grip on my wrist noticeably and I "winced" as if in great pain. I just looked away and didn't answer.

"Tell me!" Elros snapped, and while he was doing that he slapped me. He must really be getting desperate to know something to get this physical.

  I let even more tears stream down my face. Not in pain though. I've had hits ten times harder than that and were considered 'light' compared to the regular ones.

"How long have you deceived us? SPEAK!" Yep, he's off his rocker. Just when I was giving up hope on any help, a voice intervened.

"Elros, what are you doing?" Thranduil said as he put down his now empty goblet.

"Questioning the key to our prisoners." Thranduil looked from Elros to me. Tears were now freely flowing down my face, and I looked down trying to appeal as pitiful as possible.

"Her?" He said with his eyebrows raised in Elros' direction.

"Y-yes." I sniffed and Elros glared at me.

"And what exactly makes you think she's the key?" Thranduil's gaze could have fried an egg.

"Well.. uh.. you see... she was spying!"

Thranduil's expression turned to me and softened slighty. "Where you spying on us?"

"N-no, of course not my lord." I looked desperately in his direction hoping I was having enough effect on him to let me go.

Thranduil than looked to Elros for an explanation, "Then why else is she here?"

 The king looked disappointed with his question. "Elros, in questioning her, have you noticed that there is wine on the table?"

"Yes." Elros seemed to get uncomfortable.

"If you know that, then you should also know that she is a servant and brought the wine because you rang for it for me. So as far as this is concerned, your interrogation is over." Ouch, that response isn't going to make Wild Boy here happy at all. "And do let her go already Elros. She's obviously in pain."

I looked to Elros to see his response. Let's say, he was far  from happy. Course then again, he was never close to begin with.

"But my lord-"

"When was the last time you took a break?" Thranduil asked pointedly.

"Well," Elros cleared his throat, "Quite some time ago."

"Mhm. Then I suggest that you take a lengthly walk to clear your mind."

  Elros looked as if he was going to say something but then changed his mind. "Yes my lord." He gave me an angry look and whispered, "You may have gotten away this time, but I have my eye on you, remember that." Then he let me go and walked out of the room.

I watched him and then rubbed my wrist that had just been in his grasp.

"I hope you weren't injured too bad. Elros hasn't slept in a long time and is very stressed and pressured at this time."

I turned to the king and looked down, holding my hands in front of me.

"I understand your majesty." He looked at me and then reached to refill his cup.

"No need to be so formal with just the two of us."

"If that is what you wish my lord."

"It is. I don't believe I've seen you around before. Of course I've been busy of the late. Have you been with us long?" He asked as he poured the rich liquid.

"I've only just started today."

"Ah so that was it." I furrowed my eyebrows in confusion.

"I thought my breakfast and lunch tasted different."

"I'm sorry if it didn't agree wi-" He put his hand up and I stopped.

"You clearly misunderstood. I meant it tasted better. Not that Philippe doesn't do an excellent job. But.." He took a sip from his cup with his eyes on me.

"I see. I'm glad to hear it." I smiled shyly.

"Why is your cheek so red?" he asked studying my face.

   I was about to answer but he interrupted me, "And don't tell me you're blushing. If you were all of your face would be red." He might be oblivious sometimes, but he knew how to predict answers. Well, at least most of the time.

"Elros slapped me." I said quietly and looked down. His face furrowed and then nodded his head in understanding. He set down his cup and walked forward, stopping right in front of me.

   He stood there for a moment and then lifted up my chin gently with two of his fingers. Warning alerts went off in my head as soon as his finger came into contact with my chin.

   He turned my face slightly, looking at the red check and then looked into my face intently. Not good, not good, not good. He held my chin while letting his thumb caress my red cheek. This is really bad. My mind was racing as to how to get out of this.

"I'm sorry that happened."

  I nodded slightly, hoping someone would interrupt. Then he all the sudden seemed to come to his senses. He let his hand fall as if it was burned.

"Does it hurt?"

"Not anymore." Why am I encouraging him again? He's not going to be happy when I'm not here. "I told Philippe that I was going to be right back. I should really be going, that is if it's alright with you my lord."

  He nodded and then went back to his wine, "Of course. And call me Thranduil, at least when no one is around." It might have been my imagination, but I was positive that his eyelid had dropped down in my direction.

I nodded then turned to leave. I was just starting to climb the stairs when he called after me.

"What did you say your name was again?" I never mention it, I replied in my head.

"Siliana."

"Siliana..." Thranduil tested the name to himself. It was a nice name, just not mine. "Are you sure we haven't met before?"

"I don't think so.." I know so.

"Well I hope to see you again soon, Siliana."Not if you were the last elf on earth.

   I smiled slightly, and then left the room as fast as I could without appearing as if I was running away. After I exited the room and the King's eyes I made my way back to Philippe.

"Oh there you are. I was getting worried about you, you were gone so long."

"Sorry."

"Are you okay?" He asked questioningly as he continued to season the meat he had in the bowl.

"I couldn't be better." I replied, and turned to busy myself with wiping one of the work tables.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

   Later that night having finished cleaning up and saying goodnight to everyone, I felt a sense of accomplishment as I slipped back to my cell and black clothing.

   Laying down on the bed, well slab of stone, I reflected on the events of the day. It had been challenging at times, but it had turned out quite nicely for a first. Although it would've been better had I not had that whole entire scene with Elros and Thranduil. At least Thranduil taking a little interest in me wasn't as bad as I had thought at first. Some trust with him couldn't hurt if it gets Elros off my back. And Philippe seemed to have believed me completely, which is a huge bonus. It was a little surprising that he did so willingly, but I can't complain, considering I have his trust. He must see me as one of his sisters, that could be very useful if need be.

  I went off thinking about what I would need to do the next day. I really only had a few days to get everyone's trust, secure the way out, and lock in our freedom.

  Soft steps came towards my cell, I sighed knowing more than guessing who they belonged to. Tauriel appeared a moment later, and stopped in front of it. To my surprise she opened it, and stepped inside closing it behind her.

  I sat up and raised my eyebrows at her as she leaned against the stone wall and played around with the keys. I leaned back casually, waiting to know what she wanted.

"So I suppose enough time hasn't past by for you to tell me how you plan to get out of here."

"It's not for me to decided how much time must past for you to receive what you seek."

  She glared at me and then sighed giving up on trying to get anything from me. She started to leave and then stopped.

   I watched her and waited. "You know a lot of talk was going around some of the maids and the servants in the kitchen today about a temporary replacement."

I raised an eyebrow. "You know, the one you were curious about."

"I have a vague remembrance of who you are speaking of."

She nodded, "I thought you might."

"Really? And why is that?"

She shrugged, "No reason. Don't you want to know what they said?"

I sighed as if annoy, "Well you seem to be busting with it so you might as well to get it out."

She rolled her eyes, "They're all raving about her. They can't stop about how nice she is."

  My expression stayed the same as she said everything. That was a good thing to hear, but I had to be careful. I don't want Siliana's "kindness" to be known too greatly. 

"I just thought it would be interesting for you to know. Especially since her family is dead."

"Is that so?" I said dryly, trying to make it seem as if it was the most boring thing I had ever heard.

"Yes."

"Uhuh...well that's nice. Too bad she doesn't have any family or relatives."

"Oh she has relatives. She's only taking this job for a little. Enough for her to go to them. I believe she mentioned she's moving permanently."

"You know her?" I asked cautiously telling myself to stay cool. I trusted Tauriel, but I also wanted to leave her as much in the dark as I could so she could honestly say she didn't know how we left or where.

"Oh no. Known of us do. I believe it was in the letter she sent when applying for the job."

She opened the door and stepped out.

"That's it?" I said sarcastically.

"That's it. Goodnight."

  I didn't answer and laid back down to the clinking of the cell door. I closed my eyes to catch a few hours of sleep before the early morning came, it was proving to be a long day even before it had started, but that was alright. I had made my first impressions, and I was pleased with most of them.

~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~ 

 Hey mellons! Sorry this took so long,I was a little busy and I kept changing my mind with some things. XD Anyways, I hope you enjoyed it. It was a long chapter, and hopefully more interesting than the last chapter which was just plain staging. Have a great week!

 Navaer Mellons,

                             ~Jules

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