Part One

Okay, here is a little Labyrinth fanfic I came up with a while back. It's only a part of it. I'll post some more of this if I get enough good reviews on this. For the Jareth and Sarah fans out there, sorry she's not in this one. She's mentioned a little but that's pretty much it. All characters belonging to Jim Henson's Labyrinth do not belong to me. "God I wish they would make a sequel to that movie." I know I'd pay to see it. Melinda, Thorg, Gimp, and the characters that are not yet revealed in this part of the story do belong to me. So read and enjoy and remember please don't peach me.

Secret's

Part One

She stood in shock at the new scene before her. Once where there was nothing but stone walls and her bedroom now stood open woods full of trees and vegetation. One moment she was getting ready for work and the next she was in this strange place. It was something out of some weird outer limits episode. She closed her eyes knowing that when she would open them she would be back in her room but as her eyes opened once more she was still standing in an opening in the woods of some kind of forest.

"I wanted to get away from everything but this is not what I meant." Melinda said to herself in astonishment.

The very air was filled with the scents of trees and flora. It carried a faint odor and the feel of fresh spring rain. Melinda would be enjoying her little get away if she knew where exactly she was. Here she was in the middle of nowhere with only what she wore. She stood there in her jeans and a shirt staring about at her surroundings in shock. Had she gone totally insane and finally stepped over the edge or was this really happening. Pinching herself she felt the sting of the pinch knowing that this was indeed no dream. With an exasperated sigh she looked around for some kind of trail or road to follow. If she could at least find that it should lead her to somewhere. There was no use in panicking that would only make things worse. In her experience it was best to enter situations with a cool head and clear mind.

Finding something that looked close to that of a trail she cautiously made her way down the small path. To her relief the path before her widened as she made her way. Luscious trees towered over her providing a small amount of shade from the sun as she walked on. Melinda kept looking to the trees at her side as she made her way wary that someone or something was watching. Feeling a slight chill, she rubbed her arms trying to calm her nerves. The brush before her shook making her nearly jump out of her skin as a small animal resembling something close to a rabbit, but not quite, ran in front of her across the path.

Letting out a relieved sigh Melinda almost laughed at herself for being so scared of nothing. Well, she figured it was nothing since it didn't come charging after her. Looking up at the pleasant sky she took a deep breath and continued her journey but she could not shake the feeling that someone was watching. She walked for what seemed hours seeing nothing to even hint that she was anywhere close to civilization. Stopping in annoyance and frustration she leaned against one of the nearest trees and looked about her. Everything looked the same, she would almost give anything to see another person or some change in scenery.

Before she knew it, she felt herself jerked to the side landing on her hands and knees, "OW! What the hell?"

Melinda tried to get back to her feet but was dragged back. Looking up she saw a man pulling her by the collar, "Hey, let go!"

The man paid no heed as he dragged her up off of the ground and slammed her hard, back up against a tree. Melinda squinted in pain as she felt the back of her head and her back hit against the tree. She could now see the man before her more clearly and wanted desperately to scream and somehow get away. He was fairly large with dark short black hair and mean looking eyes. His clothes looked tattered and worn as if they had not been cleaned for months or even years. The man laughed at her reaction to the sight of him looking her up and down like she was some kind of product or piece of meat.

Out of desperation or fear she pushed herself from the tree trying to flee from him but was pulled back yet again by someone that she could not see. Her arms were pulled behind her back and her face pinned to the tree. The person that had pulled her back was tying her hands. Melinda tried to pull her hands free but it was no use they were tied before she could struggle any more. Who ever this person was that was tying her hands threw her towards the large man that had first grabbed her.

She could now see the other man. He was smaller than the other and his clothes did not look as bad off. His light brown hair was drawn back into a ponytail and his eyes were filled with that of hunger and greed. He smiled wickedly towards her making her want to cringe away but fighting the urge keeping her composure.

"Let me go you overgrown jerk!"

The large man that held her laughed at her remark amused at her choice of words and tightened his grip of her arms.

The smaller man approached her and drew his hand up to push away some of her hair that had fallen about her face. Melissa jerked away from his grip but could not escape his grasp as he jerked her head forward to face his, "Yes, you will do nicely."

Melinda tried to wiggle out of the large mans grasp but found that it was no use, "What? Let…Me… Go!"

The short man chuckled, "Thorg I think we'll make a fortune off of this beauty."

Melinda could feel Thorg sniff at her hair, jerking her head away, "Lay off!"

The small man in front of her pointed his finger in her face, "I'd cooperate if I were you. You wouldn't want me to gag you."

Her eyes widened, as she now knew that she was in real danger from these two, as if it wasn't already obvious. She had to get away but she was totally baffled as to how. With her hands tied behind her back leaving only her legs free there wasn't much that she could do or dared to. She had taken some kick boxing and knew a little of how to defend herself but she wasn't sure if she would be able to inflict any damage, especially to the big guy that held her. When she would attempt to try anything she would definitely have to use her head and wait a little for them to drop their guard.

The small man led the way as she was shoved forward down the wide dirt path. Her mind went to work trying to find a way to get away. If she could somehow get out of Thorg's grasp and make a run for it she might be able to get away. 'If I could only get my hands free,' she thought to herself, 'maybe…God, please get me out of this mess. If I could somehow get my hands in front of me instead of behind me then maybe I could get myself untied. Damn, where is a hero when you need one? This is not how I planed to spend my day. Think, girl, think. Maybe if I…' Melinda's thoughts were drawn away from her mind as she saw the forest starting to open up and disappear. She knew that if she didn't act soon she was not going to get another chance. The small man was just close enough that if she pushed her legs up against him she could cause the man behind her to fall back and release her.

Without further thought she pushed up her legs and kicked with all the strength that she had in her legs. The small man fell forward flat on his face while the man holding her fell back. They both slammed hard against the ground knocking the breath out of them. Melinda rolled out of his grasp and sprang to her feet. Before the two men could respond to this sudden occurrence she was a good distance from them.

Thorg got to his feet and helped the small man up, "Gimp".

Gimp got up with his hand held to his face in pain. Drawing back his hand he could see that she had drawn blood and probably broke his nose, "OW, she'll pay for this. Come on!" Gimp led the way as they started running in the direction she had fled.

Melinda could see a hill up ahead and made her way clumsily up it. She fell halfway up the hill and almost lost her balance. Pushing herself up she refused to let herself stop. If she stopped then it would only be for a moment and they would not be far behind. She tried not to think about what would happen if they caught her, pushing it to the furthest part of her mind she dragged herself up to the top of the hill. Looking down before her she could barely believe her eyes. A large labyrinth lied out before her, it was immense spiraling out in almost every direction. It was like something she had seen in a movie once but looking back behind her she feared that the men would see her.

Running down the hill she made her way towards the great wall and stopped just in front of a fountain. Sitting on the ground she pulled her arms underneath her rear and up under her legs. Pushing herself up again she tried to pull at the rope around her wrist with her teeth desperately trying to untie them. Looking over her shoulder she saw the two men just as they made it to the top of the hill. Quickly she dropped to the ground trying to hide herself behind the fountain. Tears welled up in her eyes as she realized that she had nowhere else to run if they found her.

Thorg and Gimp stood at the top of the hill that overlooked the labyrinth. Thorg stopped Gimp just as he was about to make his way towards the fountain, "Gimp, we shouldn't be here!" he urged.

Gimp pushed his arm from Thorg's grasp, "Bah, you want to have something to sell don't you."

Thorg looked questionably to his friend knowing that trespassing on this part of the Underground was not a good idea but his greed was greater than that of his conscience and continued on following Gimp's lead.

He sat back in his throne with one leg draped over the arm of it bored out of his mind. Wearing gray tights and a white shirt with a black vest he tapped his riding staff against his knee just above his black riding boots. Small creatures ran about the room trashing the place. The creatures varied in size and in appearance. Some were no bigger than that of a small cat and others were the size of a five-year-old child.

Jareth, King of the Goblins, barely noticed them as they made their usual mess. Sitting up he sensed something out of place. Opening up his hand a crystal appeared in his palm. Looking into it he dispersed of the crystal and disappeared from the throne room. No one looked up to see him leave or cared that he had gone.

Melinda peeked her head over the edge of the fountain, regretting doing so immediately. The two men that had grabbed her saw her and were coming to claim her. She rolled up off of the ground and backed away slowly towards the large wall that trapped her. For the last time she tried to pull at the rope that bound her hoping that it would give. Thankfully, the rope started to give way to her desperate attempts and was starting to loosen.

The two men came towards her, one from each side of the fountain, making her all the more fearsome. Thorg held an expression of stone as Gimp held that of rage. She saw dry blood collecting at the bottom of his nose and knew that she must have broken it when she kicked him to the ground. If he got a hold of her there was no telling what he would do. Melinda was forced to stop her retreat as she felt her back hit against the cold wall behind her. She tried to look around her for some hint of some sort of retreat but no matter where she could run off to one of the men would be able to grab her.

She watched with tearful eyes as they closed in on her. Her wrist felt raw as she kept trying to work them free. The rope had loosened but still not enough to make much of a difference. It felt as if something was caught in her throat choking any bit of hope that she had left for any type of rescue. Her hope then soon returned when she saw a tall man with blond hair appear from out of nowhere.

"Well, well, what have we here?" Jareth said in a mocking tone.

The two men stopped dead in their tracks looking towards the new arrival. Thorg's stone expression had changed to that of total fear while Gimp just looked annoyed.

Gimp yelled out at Thorg, "Don't just stand there grab her I'll deal with him."

Jareth's expression was cold and unreadable, "Oh, really!"

Gimp coldly smiled at the Goblin King, "She's ours stay out of it."

"My, my! Do you know who I am?" Jareth said as he crossed his arms over his chest looking threateningly.

Thorg stood in shock staring at the Kings arrival, the color within his face had long ago left leaving him looking as white as death. Melinda watched as the strange man acted as if the two men were nothing more than a minor irritation. She saw that Thorg was no longer approaching her and tried to make her way further away from him.

Gimp shot an irritated looked towards Thorg, "Thorg!"

Thorg blinked as if being broken from a trance and looked towards the now retreating young woman.

Jareth glanced at the retreating woman and could see her dilemma but pulled his attention back towards Gimp before he noticed his glance. "Well, do you?"

"I know exactly who you are and this don't concern you. We'll be gone as soon as we've taken back what's rightfully ours."

Uncrossing his arms Jareth crossed his hands over each other revealing a crystal that now was clutched in his hand, "Oh, really! You dare speak to me in such a way!" Holding the crystal up so that he was looking at the man from over the crystal, "Do you know what happens to those who defy me?"

Gimp had his hand to his back grasping at a small dagger that was tucked in the back of his pants, "I'm not afraid of the likes of you."

"Oh, but you should be." Jareth spoke in a hauntingly dark tone.

Gimp ran towards the king with dagger drawn ready to kill but was stopped when Jareth threw the crystal at him. It grew about him engulfing him within its crystal walls. Gimp had dropped his dagger and was now banging his fists against the wall yelling at the top of his lungs, though no one could hear him.

Jareth approached the crystal with arms held behind his back, "My, my, I see that you'll have to be shown a lesson. I wonder if the bog of eternal stench would improve your behavior." As that was said the bubble with the man in it disappeared from sight.

Melinda backed away as Thorg lunged for her barely escaping his grasp. Wiggling her hands they finally worked themselves out from the ropes confines and her arms were now free. If she was going to put any of those self-defense strategies to work now was the time.

Thorg grabbed for her once again but instead of her dogging his grasp she threw up her arm grabbing him by his arm and then with the other hand with opened palm she slammed it as hard as she could hitting him square in the nose. Thorg's nose broke on impact, his head jerking back from the force of it, pain shooting up threw his head. Before he could stumble back Melinda stepped back with one leg and brought up the other in a side kick, kicking him square in his mid section and then kicking him again but higher impacting his chest. Thorg stumbled back falling into the fountain but suddenly disappeared.

Melinda's eyes shot up from the fountain and saw the stranger standing alone just a few feet from her. She stepped back not sure what to say or what had just happened. Not knowing where she was or who he was she wasn't about to make the mistake of trusting this stranger though he did help her.

Jareth started towards her startling her. Melinda ran away from his advance but almost ran into him when he appeared just in front of her. Her heart was racing with adrenaline and fear.

Jareth smiled at her amused by her attempt to flee, "Please, I mean you no harm." He held out his gloved hand towards her, "If I wanted any harm to come to you I would not of helped you."

His words sounded true and she did need someone to trust to help her. She was in a world that she did not know and he held a certain aura about him. Slowly she stretched out her hand to meet his.

Taking her hand he looked down at her worn wrist and slightly grimaced at the sight of it. He closely examined them and touched one wrist. Melinda hissed at the pain that shot out from her wrist when he touched them but as soon as the pain had come it had vanished. Looking down at her wrist she saw that they were healed.

Taking her hands back from him she looked at them closely amazed that they were healed, "How…Thank you."

Jareth observed her apparel and manner of speaking and knew that she was not from the Underground. The clothing looked to be of the style of the realm of earth though there was a magical quality about her that he could faintly sense.

"Your welcome."

This stranger before her mesmerized her. He was very handsome and mysterious and she could not shake the feeling that she knew him from somewhere or something. Realization and wonder hit her when it dawned on her who this person might be but she didn't want to chance being wrong.

"Who are you?"

Jareth inwardly smiled, for he knew that she already knew the answer, "I'm the Goblin King," Melinda drew in her breath suddenly, "I see that you've heard of me."

Melinda stepped back from him not believing her ears or her eyes. Her mouth dropped open as she found herself at a loss for words. She suddenly felt faint as her legs began to waiver.

Jareth caught her just before she fainted. In seconds they were gone, appearing in a guestroom of his castle. Laying her down on the nearby bed he stood over her waiting for her to awaken.

Melinda's eyes fluttered, opening. As she woke, she felt the soft cushion of blankets and pillows under her head and the realization hit her that she was in a bed that was not hers. Sitting up suddenly she looked up to see the Goblin King staring down at her. 'Come on girl wake up there is no way that this can be happening. Wake up!' The thoughts raced through her mind over and over again.

Jareth sat down at the edge of the bed, "You don't belong here. How did you come to be here."

Melinda pulled herself further away from him until she could feel the headrest of the bed meeting her back. How did she come here? It was a question she wasn't sure how to answer. Tears started to build within her eyes as the days events started closing in on her, "I was getting ready for work this morning and then I was here…This can't be happening. You're a character from a movie. This is crazy." Melinda swiped at her tears trying to dry her soaking face.

Jareth's expression was unreadable as his voice held an almost mocking tone to it, "I promise you this is happening, and as you can see I am quite real."

Melinda looked down at herself seeing that she wasn't exactly looking her best. Her shirt had torn and both her clothes and her hair were a mess. She thought that she probably looked like crap and wanted desperately to get cleaned up. She felt tired with the occurrences of the day catching up to her. Half of the day must have passed by since she arrived at this strange and scary place.

Jareth stood from the bed watching her as she was obviously thinking about something. She looked a mess and probably needed to rest before he would drill her about how she got here.

"At the door to your left there is a bathroom where you can clean up." After that was said Jareth vanished from the room leaving the girl all by herself.

Looking for what he was talking about she saw the door, just where he had told her. After spotting the door she looked around the room that she was in. It was fairly large and beautiful though needing a woman's touch. She could not find where the light in the room came from, for there was neither torches nor lamps to be seen. The room was scarcely furnished with only the bed that she sat on, a cabinet, some chairs, a vanity and a small fireplace.

Edging herself off of the bed she made her way towards the bathroom, not sure what she was about to find ready for her. Standing at the doorway of the bathroom she looked in seeing what looked to be all the conveniences of home plus some. A large bathtub sat at the far corner all ready filled with hot water. Towels were not far from the tub as well as a long white robe draped over a small sitting chair. On the opposite side of the bathroom sat a small toilet and some toilet paper.

Without further thinking on her part she took off her dirty and torn clothes and got into the hot bath. It felt wonderful and relaxing. Laying back she closed her eyes absorbing the comfort that the warm water gave.

Jareth had sent his goblins away out of the throne room just as he had arrived from speaking with the young woman. She was indeed from earth but it escaped him how she was now here. He had sensed no one opening a portal to earth from the Underground so she must have somehow done it herself, but that was ridiculous. She was a mortal girl from a mortal world there was no way that she could have, but she was here and that was the only explanation he could come up with.

She had been through quite a lot and he decided that he would give her some time to recover from her mishap of the day. Producing a crystal he watched as Gimp walked by the bog of eternal stench drenched from head to toe with bog. It was quite amusing to say the lest as he watched the man cursing his name and then having to throw up from the pure awfulness of the stench that covered him. He would wait a little while before sending the man someplace else were he would not have to deal with him.

The image of Gimp slowly faded and was now replaced with that of Thorg. Thorg sat almost in complete darkness with only light from just above him illuminating his horror filled face. He was only in one of Jareth's oubliette's and would stay there until he decided to let him go or forgot about him which ever came first it really didn't matter. The two men were slavers one of the worst scum of the Underground. They deserved every bit of punishment that they were getting plus some.

The images faded and were replaced by the young woman's image. He watched as she lied back in the tub with eyes closed. She was covered by the water and he could only see her face. Raising an eyebrow he realized that he did not know her name. Now with most of the dirt and filth washed away she looked to be a very attractive young woman.

Melinda was soaking in the tub when she felt as if she was being watched. Her eyes shot open and she sank herself deeper into the tub as she looked around the room. There was no one there but she couldn't shake the feeling that she was not alone. Goose bumps raised over her arms and legs making the hairs on the back of her neck rise.

Jareth dispersed of the crystal as he realized that she knew that he was watching, though he doubted that she knew it was him exactly. He chuckled half to himself, she indeed possessed a certain magical quality about her, that was evident. This intrigued him in more ways than one and he thought that this would prove to be an interesting day after all.

Melinda quickly got out of the tub and wrapped herself in the robe that lied on the nearby chair. She felt chilled with her drenched hair and wet body and made her way out of the bathroom reentering the bedroom. To her left sat a small vanity and chair. Sitting down she took the brush that was lying before her and started to brush out her dark brown hair. She was surprised that it brushed out so easily without tangles. It felt amazingly soft and the bristles of the brush felt wonderful as they brushed up against her scalp.

She stared at herself wondering just how she had gotten herself into all of this. Melinda wondered why she felt so calm, maybe she was still in shock. There wasn't much that she could do about it so, why worry. Closing her eyes she tried to clear her mind of the onslaught of thoughts that were threatening to come forth. It was best to keep a clear mind and just take things as they came. Worrying about things that were out of your control was a waste of energy.

When she opened her eyes she almost jumped out of the chair. She saw Jareth leaning on the wall beside her, watching her. It was enough to send chills down ones spine with a twinge of excitement combined. He was handsome and yet frightening all at the same time. It was a dangerous mixture of that she was sure of. She would have to watch her step around him and not let him get to her. His character, that which she had witnessed, was mysterious and dangerous. One wrong step and it was difficult to say what exactly his reactions would be.

Jareth smiled at her stare knowing full well his effect on her. Her face paled and then blushed all at once. Making his way closer to her he bent down so that his face was only mer inches from hers. She smelled of roses and he could hear her breathe breathing harshly from fear or lust, maybe even both, he wasn't exactly sure of which but soon he would find out.

"You seem to know my name but I have yet to hear yours," he spoke in a low seductive tone.

Melinda swallowed air trying desperately to regain her composure. He was effecting her in ways she had never experienced before, "Melinda" she said with a surprisingly calm voice.

"Melinda," he was slightly behind her now whispering in her ear making her feel all the more uncomfortable, "I hope that you are finding my hospitality to your liking."

She wanted to melt and scream at the same time. She felt tense and uncertain, 'What the hell is this guy doing to me? I need to focus. God he's gorgeous.' Melinda placed the brush down on the vanity and tried not to look directly into his eyes through the reflection and instead focused on the top of his head. "I am, thank you."

It was all that she could think to say as she felt him move to the other side of her whispering into her other ear, "You're quite welcome."

Melinda turned away from him trying to stand from the chair and have some bit of control over the situation but he was too fast for her. Jareth blocked her from standing with his arms placed on each side of the chair. This time she could not avoid looking into his eyes and felt frozen unable to move away. They seemed to capture her in their depths. One eye was blue like an ocean and the other was dark green like an enchanted forest. Her voice caught in her throat as she tried to say something that would break the haunting silence that now loomed between them. Finally after what seemed an eternity she broke her eyes away from his looking away afraid of the emotions that he was stirring within.

Jareth grinned playfully, she was indeed lovely and her shyness made him want her all the more. He could sense her nervousness and confusion that his actions aroused making him enjoy this all the more. A lock of her wet hair fell across her lips. Gently he pushed the strand from her, lightly brushing his fingers across her moist lips.

Melinda shivered underneath his touch and looked to him shocked at his small action. She knew that by now her face had to be the deepest shade of red. Her lips burned with desire underneath his touch and she could feel herself now trembling. It was enough to drive any woman insane.

Reluctantly Jareth pulled away from the young woman watching her with steady eyes. He would take his time with her, she was pure and that was something very rare for someone of her age. A rare thing that is best cherished like a fine wine.

Melinda watched wide eyed, as he backed away not sure how to react to his behavior towards her. A man had never treated her like he had just done nor had a man ever effect her as he had. She looked away from him looking to herself in the mirror. Her hair was still damp and her face looked just like she had imagined, red as a rose.

"I trust that you will join me for dinner."

His words broke her thoughts as she turned to face him once again but this time with a bit more control over her own emotions. She rose from the chair, "Of course but…" she looked down at her robed self not sure if she should be standing before him wearing only the robe.

Jareth moved his hand in a slight waiving motion. She could feel the air tingling around her as he did this small gesture. Looking down she saw what he had done. In seconds she was clothed in an elegant red satin dress. Looking in the vanity mirror she also noticed that her hair was now dry and fixed in a pleasing fashion. She couldn't help but smile at his amazing abilities. She had always secretly believed in magic, but never had she actually seen the real thing. The dress cut slightly low at the chest revealing a little cleavage and the bodice of the dress hugged her slightly and then flowed out loosely just above the hips, letting the skirts freely move about as she turned in fascination of her new apparel.

Jareth was pleased with his magic as it provided her with a very pleasing look. She looked even more stunning now than moments before stirring something within. Moving closer to her now he stood just beside her and held out his arm in invitation.

Melinda looked down and slid her hand through his arm accepting his invitation. Before she could blink they were in another part of his castle. A small table sat at the center of the room decorated with two tall white candles. The whole room was decorated with small white candles giving the room a more romantic look and feel. They made their way towards the table and Jareth slid one of the chairs out for her to sit. Melinda sat in the chair that he offered looking at the food before her. It looked like some kind of white meat covered in a white sauce. She noticed that both of the plates held the same food. With the plates stood tall wineglasses filled with a dark wine.

After Melinda had taken her seat Jareth sat down in the chair across from her. She was afraid to look him in the eyes remembering what happened the last time that she had done so. Instead she stared at the food and drink in front of her not sure what she was doing. It seemed as if he was somehow playing with her emotions. One moment trying to seduce her the next this. Melinda scorned herself for her own thoughts, he was being the perfect gentleman and here she was questioning his intent.

Jareth watched her as she sat before him studying her. He admired her soft dark brown hair and how it was fashioned up away from her face and neck. Her face glowed faintly and her eyes sparkled from the candlelight. She was staring at the food with both her hands placed in her lap underneath the table. Taking the wine in hand he took a sip not taking his eyes away from her.

Melinda saw him move and glanced in his direction to see what he was doing. She watched as he sipped at his wine and smiled at her. Looking away she could feel his eyes on her watching. 'OK, so this is the Goblin King from that movie Labyrinth and here I am. Here I am…he keeps staring at me. I can't eat under this kind of pressure, my stomach already feels as if they're filled with butterflies. Come on, get a hold of yourself, every since you've met this guy you've acted like a scared little girl.' Taking a deep relaxing breath Melinda took the wineglass and sipped at the wine, hoping that it would calm her nerves a little. She smiled at the wonderful taste that engulfed her tongue and finally found the courage to look up from the food to Jareth. He was still watching her, wetting her lips she wasn't sure what to say but the words just came out, "Thank you for helping me today I don't know…" she looked away as the memories of the first part of the day caught up with her once more.

Jareth moved his hand placing it on hers, causing her to look at him, "Don't," moving from his chair he made his way around the table. Music softly filled the room as he pulled her up from the table and held her close to him. Slowly they moved to the music, the scene around them changing. The walls were gone and they were now in a large circle opening in the middle of a garden, the stars shining brightly down on them as they danced.

Melinda closed her eyes taking in the sweet fragrance of the garden and the cool breeze that lightly played with her hair. Her heart raced with delight and her mind swirled with thoughts of him. She could almost see herself dancing with him. His arms lightly around her waist holding her close to him as they danced. His eyes looking at her studying the features of her face waiting for her to open her eyes and look into his mismatched ones.

Opening her eyes it seemed that her imagination was right, his eyes fixing with her own. She knew that this was somehow wrong that he was in some way using her for his own amusement. Reluctantly she pulled away from him her breathing heavy as the spell wore off. Instead of standing in the garden they were back in the dining area amongst the lit candles.

Jareth looked at her with a hurt expression as she pulled away and broke the spell he had wrapped around her to take her mind off of the events of the day.

Looking around her she tried to get her bearings straight as the sudden changes in scenery were starting to become quite unnerving. She stepped away from him, as he held out his hand for her, "No! I know what you're up to and it's not going to work."

"And just what is it that I'm up to my dear."

Anger rose and she could no longer hold her tongue, "Ever since you helped me you've tried to take advantage of me. I will not let you use me like this. I'm not so weak minded as to not see through your games."

Jareth pulled his hand back clasping his hands behind his back. It seemed that her mind was stronger than he had thought and he started to circle her like one would circle its prey. "Games, you hurt me with such accusations." His expression played that of hurt as he now came near.

For a moment Melinda backed away from his advance but stopped herself. She was not going to allow him to intimidate her like before and decided that she would stand her ground. She could feel his warm breath play across her face sending slight chills along her spine.

"Melinda, you know that you want me. I've sensed it from the first moment that you saw me. Why deny yourself that which we both know you want?"

She held back as the urge to slap him crossed her mind. She had to control her temper and not let him get underneath her skin. "This dinner is over and I am leaving."

Jareth's amusement faded as she now dared to defy him after all that he had done for her. Melinda turned from him to walk away but felt herself pulled back up against him. His breath felt heavy in her ear, "Don't defy me! I have been generous up until now but I "CAN" be cruel."

She knew that phrase it was almost exact to one which he used in the movie Labyrinth that they had made about him. It was looking as though the movie was based more on that of fact than fiction. She tried to break away from his grasp but his hold was too strong. After one more attempt to break free from him she gave up with her struggles waiting to see what his next move would be.

With a skill she had never seen he turned her within his grasp so that she was now facing him. Their faces only mere inches from one another, breaths mingling with each other, eyes locked in his not able to pull away. She could feel immense power emanating from him it was frightening to say the least. Fear found its haven within her soul as her mind screamed to be free of him. Jareth moved in his lips meeting passionately with hers, she knew that he wanted her to struggle so she stayed there as still as she could. Not returning his kiss was one of the hardest things that she had ever done in her life. Jareth let his lips part from hers angered by her lack to cooperate. He let her go taking a step back.

She watched fearful of what would come next but refusing to let him see her fear. His breath seemed heavy and his eyes looked on hers as if she had stung him. The room faded and Melinda found herself back in the room that she had been brought to when she had first come to the Goblin Kings castle. He was gone nowhere to be seen and she felt her legs falter as she fell to a sitting position on the floor. Tears erupted as the wall that she had put forth on her emotions gave way.

He paced his throne room that was now filled from head to toe with goblins. Carrying on as if nothing was going on. Jareth kicked one of the Goblins out of frustration causing the small creature to crash against the opposite wall with a dreadful thud. It sat there looking up at its king and then scurried away. Jareth paid no heed as he continued his pace his anger rising with each passing moment.

The goblins continued on with what they were doing, for the Kings misuse of the goblins was an occurrence that happened often when he was in moods such as this. Annoyed with his surroundings he transported himself to his own chambers. Stopping his pacing he leaned against his bedroom window that overlooked the labyrinth bellow. His mind swam with different emotions, one of anger and the other in desire. He wanted her there was no doubt in his mind about that but why did he not take her when he had the chance. Taking a deep breath he took control over his emotions and produced one of his crystals letting it float above his hand and linger in front of his face.

An image came into view of the young woman crumbled up on the floor in tears. He grimaced at the sight seeing the pain he caused upon her. Melinda had been through quite an ordeal and he put her through even more. What was this feeling that was starting to creep its way within? Was it guilt, regret? Looking away from the crystal he looked out the window in thought. "Who are you that you have come into my world and effect me so? There is a power hidden deep within her, as if…" Dismissing the crystal it faded from view.

The floor was hard and cold against her knees as the last of her tears fell. Her eyes burned from crying for so long as she shakily got herself off of the floor. Wiping away the remainder of her tears she looked about the dimly light room. It looked the same as before until her eyes fell upon a door that she had not noticed before. Approaching it she slowly opened the door curious as to see what was inside.

As it opened she could see dresses and gowns of various shapes and colors hanging loosely along the walls of the closet. Cautiously she looked through the closet hoping to find some kind of nightgown. Pushing the different types of dresses to the side she finally found what she was looking for. It was a long white night gown made of some soft material she wasn't able to define. Taking the nightgown in hand she slid off her dress and placed the nightgown over her body. The sleeves fit loosely over her arms and the neckline came to a comfortable level just at the center between her neckline and bosom. It flowed out just underneath her chest and lightly swept down to the floor over her bare feet. The material was very light and felt as if she were wearing nothing at all.

Hanging the dress that she had just taken off into the closet she carefully shut the door and made her way towards the bed. Pulling the thick blanket and silken sheets back she slid into the bed feeling the exhaustion of the day catching up with her.

The silken sheets were surprisingly warm and felt wonderful against her skin. Just as she slid underneath the covers the light in the room started to dim until the room was almost completely dark. Melinda sat up in the bed not sure what had just happened. She could hear the crackling of the fire but nothing more. It was as if the room had a mind of its own, yielding to the occupants needs. No longer able to keep her eyes open she laid back and fell quickly to sleep.

Jareth sat back against his headboard on top of his covers still wearing his usual dress attire, a poets blouse, gray tights and his black riding boots. Sleep was the furthest thing from his mind as thoughts tugged at his consciousness. What was he to do with this woman who seemed to be effecting him in ways no one had done in quite some time. He had numerous women in his time and never had one affected him so except for one. The only being ever to defeat his labyrinth had affected him so but she was too young to neither understand nor comprehend his feelings for her.

Letting out a dreadful sigh he chose to look in on his guest. The crystal appeared in his hand with little effort and her image came into view. She was fast asleep with the covers tightly pulled up to her chin. He watched as if he himself were locked in a drugged gaze, watching the covers rise and fall with the rhythm of her breathing. She looked so peaceful as she slept, reaching out his hand he gently traced the image of her face with his fingers.

Melinda stirred in her sleep feeling his ghostly touch against her skin. Her hand came up to her cheek where his fingers had touch on the image. A smile crept along the corners of her mouth as she turned away from his view. Jareth regretfully pulled away dispensing of his crystal. He needed to find out how she had gotten to the Underground. He was not one who liked to be held in the dark about things.

Everything looked bright as she stood on the white sandy beach. Still wearing her white nightgown she walked along the shore feeling the moist cool sand at her feet. The aqua blue waters crashed along the shore spraying her with its salty mist. There was not a cloud in the sky and there seemed to be no end to the beach as it stretched out as far as the eye could see. In the faint distance she could see some kind of rock formation stretching over a small section of the beach out over the ocean waters. Surf slamming up against the rock as if trying to destroy the very thing.

As her eyes followed the strange formation, it almost resembled that of a road stretching out over the ocean to some unknown destination. She found herself drawn to it as if it was calling to her very being to approach. Something struck her foot causing her to look down at her feet. There seemed to be some kind of object protruding out from the white sand. Reaching down she traced her hand along the object wiping away the sand that buried it. It felt round and smooth to the touch, taking it in hand she drew the object up to look at it. She wanted to drop it as soon as she recognized what it was. It was one of Jareth's crystals. Melinda could not bring herself to let go and found her eyes fixated in its depths.

Within the crystal an image was starting to form. She saw herself doing her usual routine. Getting ready for work, performing her work duties, eating lunch, coming home, doing her workout, eating dinner, and then going to bed. The scenes played as if they were being fast forward, the days repeating with only minor changes. The times she spent crying herself to sleep as the loneliness of her life came crashing down on her.

Her heart sank from the lonely scenes that played out before her reminding her of how much she hated her boring life. Finally the images changed and showed her in the world she had somehow found herself in. The horrifying scenes when the two men had grabbed her and how they treated her. She smiled when she saw how she had gotten away from them but her smiled faded when she saw herself trapped again by the two. Then Jareth appearing like some magical hero, how he handled the situation. Then back to her as she defended herself, rather well, from the other man when he tried to grab her. The moment when he healed her wrist up to the moment when she was taken back to the room after refusing his advances.

The crystal orb then vanished from her hand and she found herself standing on the beach looking at the strange rock formation that stretched out over the ocean. Stepping back slightly she could feel some kind of presence near watching.

A voice was then heard coming as if from everywhere sounding familiar, "Melinda," it almost sounded as if it were her own voice, "look inside yourself. Trust your instincts and they will guide you to your true self."

Melinda turned trying desperately to see the source of the voice. She knew that the voice was not hers, but was being disguised as such but there was no one to be seen. The brightness of her surroundings seemed to be growing in intensity as she started on towards the great rock it was blinding. The light died suddenly as she now was surrounded by darkness as she found herself awakening from her sleep.

Sitting up suddenly she found that the once comfortable and soothing sheets clung to her now sweat soaked body like a second skin. Peeling herself free, she slid out from the bed making her way towards the bathroom. The bathtub was already filled waiting for her. She looked at it scornfully and made her way towards the sink besides the toilet. Turning the faucet Melinda splashed her face with the cold water trying to shake away the disturbing dream of moments ago. Looking at herself in the mirror she could see that she was shaking and tried to mentally calm her shaken nerves.

The dream stuck in her mind and the words repeated over and over in her thoughts, 'Look inside yourself. Trust your instincts and they will guide to your true self.' "What the hell is that supposed to mean?" she scorned at her reflection. Walking over to the bathtub she peeled off her nightgown and slid into the warm water hoping that it would alleviate her nerves.

Lying in the warm water she sank down until her chin met the surface of the water and she was looking up towards the ceiling. Yesterday was still fresh in her mind as well as the dream. She tried desperately to rationalize the events but could not. It felt as if she was going mad. Sinking her head completely underneath the water she relaxed letting the silent void of the waters sooth her racing mind. Lifting her head out of the water she wiped at her face trying to dry it enough so that she could open her eyes. The room was blurred as some water had found its way into her eyes. Closing her eyes again, she wiped at them but then felt something soft and dry being handed to her.

Without paying it much thought she took the material and dried her eyes but then froze as realization hit her. Regretfully opening her eyes she looked to see just who was in the bathroom with her.

Jareth stood there with a smug expression written all over his face. Melinda paled and threw the towel over her naked body as she gasped out infuriated that he had seen her in her birthday suit. The towel soaked and clung to her like a second skin.

Pulling the chair that sat not too far away he casually sat down and watched her.

Her mouth hung open as her anger rose making her face redden with rage, "GET OUT!"

Jareth chuckled slightly at her demand and sat back in the chair amused, "Now, Melinda. It's not like you have anything that I have never before seen."

She was enraged beyond words at this point but trapped with nowhere to go. She sank down deeper into the tub trying to hide as much as she could but not being very successful. "You…peeping tom. If I weren't in this tub…I'd kick your ass."

"You promise," he purred, crossing his arms he leaned back into the chair as if without a care in the world.

Melinda turned looking away from the arrogant smirk written all over his face. Her arms crossed over her chest she was furious and helpless. She almost jumped out of her skin once again as she felt him delicately tracing her arm with a soft sponge sending waives of goose bumps across her skin. Her heart raced and her breathing hastened.

Jareth watched with interest as she refused to look in his direction. Lightly moving her wet hair away from her neck he casually blew on her neck sending more goose bumps across her flesh making her tremble.

She wanted to scream and sink underneath the water when she felt him breathe against her neck. She glared at him frozen with emotions she wanted to be desperately free from.

He smiled dipping the sponge into the water and then ringing out the excess water over her soft white skin. She looked away yet again not knowing what to do. To Jareth's surprise and her own Melinda gathered her courage, stood up from the tub and walked to the robe were she covered her exposed self.

Standing from beside the tub he held an expression of amusement, amazed at her surprising action. He definitely got an eye full, enjoying it immensely.

Melinda glared at the Goblin King wanting to claw his eyes out for invading her privacy. So she did the next best thing, grabbing at the first object that her hand could find. She flung the hairbrush towards him praying that it would hit him right between the eyes but missing him completely as he vanished from where he stood.

Turning to exit the bathroom she walked into something soft and warm. Jareth smiled down at her taking in the shocked expression on her face. Reflexively she swung her fist with as much force as she could muster but he grabbed her arm before she could make impact. He drew her closer holding her arms behind her back, "Temper, temper." Before she could respond he closed the distance between them softly kissing her.

At first she tried to pull away but then found herself returning his kiss. He let go of her arms letting her wrap her arms about his neck. They stumbled into the bedroom kissing more and more passionately. In moments they were on the bed with her lying underneath him. Melinda felt panicked as she felt her back fall onto the bed with him over her. His kisses left her mouth trailing fire down her neck. She faintly heard herself moan at his touch as her body was wanting to give into his embrace.

Pulling herself back into reality she pushed him away. He did not fight with her letting her roll away from him. She sat with her back facing him pulling the disheveled robe tightly around her. Looking to the ceiling she wasn't sure what she was doing. One minute she wants to kill the man the next she can't get enough of him.

Jareth lied on his side just behind her reaching up to touch her back. She shivered underneath his touch closing her eyes as she felt his hand trace along her back, "Jareth, please don't" her voice cracked as she said this. She ached as his hand left her back for there was a part of her that wanted to give in to him, to give herself completely to his mercy.

Sitting up he was now mere inches from her, "We don't have to do anything that you don't want to do" he purred in her ear.

Hearing those words made her feel a little more at ease and she found the courage to turn towards him. Before she could say anything he placed his fingers to her lips and leaned in to kiss her gently. Closing her eyes she savored his soft kiss and looked at him confused at his behavior.

He smiled at her knowingly and then left disappearing from the room. Melinda fell back against the bed sighing with an enormous smile spread across her face. 'God, I should be furious with him but what is this feeling I get when he touches me. It's more than lust, it's…Oh, I don't know.' Rolling over onto her stomach she lied her head against the mattress staring at nothing in particular. 'He was so frightening last night and now…" She buried her face into the soft blanket now more confused than ever.

Jareth sat at his throne with one leg propped up over the arm of it staring off into space with a pleasing smile on his face. He was very pleased with the occurrence of that morning. What was this effect that she was having on him? He could have taken her even after she had asked him to stop, knowing just the right areas to arouse to make her change her mind. It was not like him, not at all, which was further proof that his heart was falling for this woman, this creature that had stumbled into his world and his life.

Before his arrival he had looked in on her in his crystal and saw her trembling before the mirror asking herself some question. 'What was it that she said? "What the hell is that supposed to mean?" I wonder what exactly she was referring to. A dream, perhaps.' Jareth knew that it would be only a matter of time before her hidden talents would start to appear. The Underground was full of magic and soon it would be effecting her awakening her gifts. He was curious as to see what exactly what they would be.

The rest of the morning was non-eventful and Melinda could hear her stomach growling with hunger. She had not eaten dinner from last night for her nerves wouldn't allow her the pleasure and before she could protest he had sent her back to the room. Melinda had long ago changed into one of the dresses she had found in the closet. The dark royal blue dress had semi short sleeves that came down to her elbows, the neck line was not as daring as the dress she wore the night before, plunging only enough to show her collar bone. The top portion of the dress fit to her chest and then flowed loosely down meeting the top of her feet. The shoes where a matching blue dress shoe with only a slight heal.

Melinda sat out on the balcony with a book in hand that she had found in the hope chest at the foot of her bed. The title of the book was delicately stitched into the cover spelling out "Hidden Treasures". She had only lightly read some pages but found that she could not concentrate on the words before her. Her mind was still going threw her actions of that morning and the feelings she was starting to have for this man that she knew little to nothing about. Her only source of information was from what she could remember of the movie she had watched so long ago, "Labyrinth". She had watched that movie so many times when she was younger she knew almost every scene by heart. Melinda secretly wondered if the movie was based on a true story. That maybe there really was a Sarah back in her world that had defeated the Goblin King and the movie was a way for her to tell her story. Though she wasn't sure who exactly wrote or came up with the idea of the movie.

Melinda smirked at herself, "The real world, yeah like this isn't real." Placing the book on her lap she looked out into the sky watching the few white clouds passing by lazily. "God, what am I doing here and how did I get here? It's not like I want to go back or anything. Do I? No, I know that I have family and friends that would miss me and wonder where I disappeared to but…" looking to herself, "I've never felt as if I belonged there."

After saying this to herself she sighed closing her eyes and feeling the soft breeze caress her brown hair. Lifting her hand up to her throat she absentmindedly traced her fingers along the small dip located at her collarbone. She mentally tried to push her onslaught of thoughts to the side and clear her mind. Opening her eyes she stood from her chair and stretched taking in a deep breath. The day looked lovely and she so much wanted to get out of the room that she was locked in. 'You would think after this morning that he wouldn't be treating me as if a prisoner.'

With that in mind she felt an odd tingling sensation rise within her temples and knew that he was there. Turning she was not surprised to see Jareth just as he appeared at the door way to the balcony. He stood there smiling before her, "Jareth, why is it that I have the distinct feeling that you know something about me that I don't?"

He held out his hand for her, "Come, there's something that I would like to show you."

Taking his hand she felt a strange sensation from his touch, almost electrical but not in a way when you drag your feet on carpet and touch a person or doorknob, but it felt almost as though it were magic itself. She wasn't sure what to make of it and looked on him questionably. Before she could ask what was on her mind they were suddenly outside of the castle walls standing in a small meadow.

Melinda let her hand fall as she turned looking about her in utter amazement. The green grass was sprinkled with flowers of the brightest yellows and whites. It flowed as if an ocean as the soft winds stirred the short grass at its touch. Not far from where they stood lied a forest of the darkest green. Her dress lightly swept around her as she turned and then fell back into place as she stopped to look at Jareth, smiling.

He watched her mesmerized by her as she admired their new surroundings, the delicate flow of her soft brown hair as it was lightly tossed about by the warm flower scented breeze. Her smile was contagious and mesmerizing bringing out the light within her eyes. "Do you know how beautiful you are?"

She felt her checks flush averting her eyes towards the scenery, no one had ever complemented her like that before. Yes, people had told her that she was pretty even beautiful, but it always sounded as if they were just trying to be nice not really meaning their words. Melinda never felt herself as being so and always kept herself hidden, which could explain her lack of boyfriends and friends.

As she looked away from him he came to her side taking her hand in his. She turned facing him as he pulled her hand to his lips placing a light kiss on the back of her hand. It sent a wave of excitement and butterflies throughout as her voice faltered slightly, "I'm not…"

So much innocence and purity of heart it made one feel undeserving of her presence. She didn't think herself to be as beautiful as she was and that sent a slight pain within his heart. Leaning in he stopped her before she could finish her sentence, lips touching, kiss deepening. Finishing the kiss she buried her face in his neck wanting to understand the feelings he stirred from within. She loved it when he held her close as he was doing but her reverie was disturbed as the silence between them was broken from the growling of her stomach.

Melinda felt embarrassed as her stomach announced it's hunger for everyone to hear. Jareth chuckled at the look on her face and produced one of his crystals. Letting it drift from his hand it floated to the ground beside them transforming before their eyes. The crystal vanished and in its place lay a large red blanket with a picnic basket sitting at its corner. "Shall we?"

Sitting on the blanket she watched as he sat down beside her his white poets shirt lightly stirring in the breeze. For the first time she noticed his amulet that hung over his chest. The amulet was almost identical to the one in the movie reminding her of how much she did not know about this man. Taking the sandwich he handed her she took a few bites before finding the nerve to ask. "Jareth, where am I? What is this place? I mean…How did I get here?"

"You're in the Underground, parallel to your world earth. As you already know the Labyrinth is my kingdom and for how you came to be here…You already know the answer."

She wasn't sure how to except what he had told her. If she brought herself here than that would mean that she had powers. The thought of such a thing seemed ridiculous. Melinda smiled at the absurd suggestion letting out a small laugh, "Your saying that I brought myself here. You're kidding, right!" Jareth said nothing in response affirming to her that he was not kidding.

She could not help but feel angered by it. She had spent most of her life hating her life and the world around her. So many nights crying herself to sleep, wanting some form of escape. Wanting to be somewhere else but never being able to find out where or if that place existed. Her hunger had long subsided leaving the sandwich she rose to her feet and walked away. Looking out towards the forest but not really seeing it.

Jareth could sense the building anger that suddenly surfaced and watched her walk away. Going to her he touched her lightly on the shoulder only to have her shrug it away. "What is it? What's wrong?"

Turning on her heels she looked at him teary eyed, "You wouldn't understand." His expression looked hurt making her feel guilty for being so cruel to him after he had been so great. "It's not you…" she looked to the side not knowing how to put her frustration and anger into words. "I've spent most of my life wanting to get away but never knowing to where. And now after so long you tell me that I had the power to do just that." She now looked down feeling her anger replaced with that of sadness, "I could be surrounded by family and friends and still feel alone, out of place, as if I didn't belong. I use to cry myself to sleep at night wondering why life had been wasted on me. I kept wishing for someone to come and rescue me but no one ever did and then everything just felt numb, routine."

Jareth could hear the pain in her voice, for someone so young to feel so much pain tore at his very soul. He gathered her in his arms wanting to relieve her of that immense pain that was welling up within her.

She didn't even try to pull away as all of her feelings that she had kept hidden deep inside were finally set free. The tears that had weld up within her eyes broke free soaking his white poet's shirt. Reluctantly she pulled away swiping away her tears, "I'm sorry. It's just that after having these feelings held up for so long…"

Jareth took her hand in his squeezing it reassuringly and then bringing it up to his lips, "Don't apologize, you're not alone anymore." With that said he pulled her close into a sweet embrace.

When he drew away she looked at him wondering where he had been all of her life. She reached up tracing along his face entranced by him more than ever. His gaze was intoxicating and held her within its depths like no other. She wanted more than anything to know more about this Goblin King. It felt odd that she felt so much for someone that she barely even knew. "I don't even know you so why is it that I feel as if I've waited for you my entire life?" It scared her to hear herself say this, fear swept over her as she realized what she had just said. Did she dare risk her heart to someone she had only just met? She pulled her hand away afraid that she had revealed too much.

Her question sent warmth throughout his heart, his soul. It had been a very long time since he had felt something so strong towards someone. Jareth smiled down at her wanting more than ever to know every detail there was to know about this woman that had just poured out her heart to him. Sensing her fear he took her hand in his for the second time, "I hope that you will stay here with me to find out." Melinda was about to answer when he placed a finger to her lips, "You don't have to answer me now. Think about it."

Melinda nodded faintly and watched as he motioned his hand over the picnic making it vanish. Taking his hand in hers they were suddenly back at the castle. She kept silent, feeling slightly uncomfortable with her current situation.

The awkward silence was broken as a small furry goblin dashed across the floor and ran into the opposite wall. Melinda couldn't help but giggle as the small goblin walked dazed from its impact mumbling something she could not quite understand. Looking to Jareth he looked to have an annoyed expression cross his face making her laugh all the more.

"What, my dear, is so funny?"

She looked in the direction the goblin had wondered off to, and then back to Jareth, "If you only saw the look on your face… Um, sorry."

Taking her hand yet again they continued their journey stopping at two huge wooden doors. Just as they stopped at the doors they slowly opened up revealing a large library. Rows and rows of books were stacked on shelves aligning the walls of the fairly large room. At the end of the room sat a large chair with a small round wooden table by its side in front of a large brick fireplace.

"This is my library. I hope that you find it to your liking."

Letting go of his hand she walked in gapping at the size of the room and the number of books aligned along the walls. "I've never seen so many books. I could spend hours in here."

"Your room is just down the hall. Feel free to come in here whenever you wish. For now though, I'm afraid that I have some duties in which to attend to. Do you wish to return to your room?"

Melinda gave Jareth a sour look at the thought of returning back to her room already. "No, not really." She was starting to get a little bored with staying in the room and wanted so much to see more of the castle. To explore it's hidden treasures.

As if hearing her thoughts, "Then feel free to stay here if you like but don't go about exploring the castle, it is much like my Labyrinth and you could very easily get lost."

With that said her hopes for exploration vanished and she focused on the books within the room. She was about to say something to Jareth when she looked to see that he had left. Rolling her eyes she made her way towards the bookshelves wondering just what she would find. Reading wasn't really something that she actually felt like doing at the moment as she looked over the numerous books.

Not really paying much attention Melinda pulled one of the books from the shelf. It was a fairly small leather bound book with no title, only an emblem of a rose. The rose was the darkest red making the book look even darker than it already was. Not taking her eyes away from the cover she made her way towards the large chair that sat at the end of the room.

Sitting back in the large comfortable chair she drew up her feet and slowly opened the book. After reading the first sentence she could not pull her eyes away from the story that started to weave its way into her imagination. Before she knew it hours had passed and her eyes started to grow heavy until she yielded. Eyes closing she let go of the book letting it fall from her grasp.

Not caring to handle any more of his duties for the day he dismissed his goblins and slouched back into his throne. The day had passed quickly and he wondered just what Melinda was up to. Crystal forming in hand he gazed into its depths seeing her sleeping in the large cushioned chair in the library with one of the books lying on the floor. Smiling he rose from his throne vanishing and then appearing in the library.

Watching her for a moment he glanced down at the book that lay on the floor. Picking up the book he placed it on the table beside her. Taking her sleeping form from the chair into his arms he vanished from the room reappearing in the bedchambers that he had provided for her. Jareth gently lied her on the bed careful not to wake her siting just beside her. Pushing her hair away from her face he wanted so much to wake her and hold her in his arms.

She felt as if she were falling back further and further hurdling down towards God knows what. The calmness within only told her that this could not be real that it was nothing more than a dream. Her descent slowed and she now found herself floating down and landing softly on the ground underneath her.

The wind whipped about her hair as she now stood on a narrow rock formation that sat just above the sea. Ocean spray tickling her nose she looked around seeing that the shore was far away in the distance. She tried to think about what it was that she was doing before she fell asleep and remembered reading.

It was about a young woman who had lost her memories and knew nothing of her surroundings. She ended up falling in love with her enemy who had tried to suppress her memories so that she would not remember him as such but she eventually did regain her memories. That's where she stopped reading just before she fell asleep.

The salty ocean water crashed against the rock formation shaking it slightly causing her to lose her balance and fall to her hands and knees. "Ouch" standing she looked towards the shore and then let her eyes follow the rock formation at her feet. It was like her other dream except she was standing not on the beach but on the bridge or road she wasn't exactly sure which.

Wondering exactly where it led she started walking away from the beach and towards the other end of the path before her. In the distance it looked as though it stretched out to infinity. The further she walked the more violent the water around her became as if in protest. The ground beneath her shook causing her to go to her hands and knees trying to hang on and not fall into the water. It seemed useless as she was flung to the side into the cold salty water.

Melinda screamed out as she felt herself being pulled under not able to breathe. She tried to fight her way to the surface only to be yanked down deeper into the cold salt water. Screaming out once more she woke up hands reaching out.

Jareth held onto her as she franticly fought against the nightmare that she had just awakened from. "Sh…You're safe."

Breathing heavily she relaxed in his arms still shaken by the dream. "I couldn't breath. Something was pulling me under." No matter how hard she tried she could not stop shaking. The dream was like a continuation from her last and she could not help but to fear what her dreams would bring next.

Red eyes burned in the pitch-blackness of the room glaring at the young woman that was crying out from the nightmare she had just had. Its long pale fingers stroked her image fondly scrapping against the mirror's smooth surface. A faint haunting laughter echoed throughout the chamber, "Soon my sweet, very soon."

To be continued.