"Have a strategic conversation in a less fraught context, make sure there's not obvious things not being shared because you're frustrated with us and haven't thought to mention them, or vice versa..."

"I suppose I can stay over tonight unless something comes up."

"Thank you," she says sincerely. I know I was more likable when I had no political power at all but I'd rather make decisions you hold against me than have no chance to make them at all.

I'd make that tradeoff myself. Just somewhat different political decisions.

Come meet Father?

All right. And Loki waves at Maedhros and follows Lúthien.

Thingol and Melian are not on their thrones, for once, but sweeping majestically - and it really is quite a sight - down the halls. "Loki," Thingol says gravely.

"Your Majesty. How are you today?"

'I am well, thank you. You?"

"As ever. May I ask you something about Maedhros's conditions?"

"Certainly."

"While he's restrained" (lookit her not saying "chained to a fucking wall") "it seems redundant to have him also silenced; I would appreciate your leave to break the illusion on the necklace he's wearing."

"We consented after long discussion to have the Silmaril in his custody, so that his foolish Oath is fully satisfied; I do not know what he could do with it, given the opportunity, and desire to take whatever precautions I can to protect my people."

"I see."

"We desired originally to keep him from tinkering with it, but restraining both hands seemed unkind. I understand and admire your compassion for the Kinslayer, but I think he's holding up fine."

"Have you more news from Ulmo, or from Círdan?"

"The last thing I heard from Ulmo is that he doesn't mind me teleporting fish out of the ocean to feed people and I haven't spoken to Círdan recently. If you wish to convey something to them I can relay the messages."

"Only my regards and concern, in these troubled times."

Nod.

"Did you have other concerns, Loki? I'd be eager to hear some petitions that aren't about the Kinslayer's treatment."

"Nothing else comes to mind."

"All right. Eru keep you, then."

"Thank you." And she falls out of step and rejoins Lúthien. I do not have leave to break the illusion. Does he really buy that I'm more than humoring him? she sends Maedhros.

Yes, he does. He's had a thousand years where his word actually was law, it's a hard habit of thought to break. I really don't mind. They considered much worse.