53. Keeping A Secret

"Have any decided to speak yet?"

Two mornings after the company's imprisonment, Thranduil was somewhat curious. It was hardly that the condition of the dwarves was pressing; in fact, a part of him felt sure that the longer they remained in the palace, the safer his realm would be. However, some prideful corner of him was more than a bit ruffled by the fact that information was being withheld from him- particularly by Naugrim.

"No, my lord," replied the chief of the guards, caught in his tracks crossing the throne room, "not a word. They seem intent on keeping their secrets."