Chapter 9, Questionable Promotions

"You have quite the smart mouth, don't you?" Severin growled, tightening his grasp on Sarah's neck. He tilted his head to one side, observing the way her mouth gaped open as she struggled for air. "It's been almost a month now, and you still haven't learned any manners." He continued.

Sarah's mouth opened and closed like a fish on its last breath. Her eyes were wide, and her cheeks flushed with the blood that was unable to circulate through her neck.

"Why do you insist on disobeying me? You know how much I like to punish you. Any intelligent being would do their best to obey and please their master -avoid all this...repetitiveness." His voice was low, and his eyes were dark. Sarah struggled to keep her toes on the ground.

Severin's gaze started to lower, casting itself down Sarah's body. He brought his free hand to run a finger down the front of her dress.

"But you're not intelligent are you? No, your just a mortal -my slave- and a poor one at that. But perhaps you like me to punish you. Do you enjoy the pain, Sarah?" He asked, returning his gaze to her face, which was now beat red and starting to turn purple. Sarah wondered if it were possible for her head to pop off -like a dandelion. "Maybe I'll punish that smart mouth of yours..." He said, letting his snake-like tongue graze along his teeth. Sarah shuddered, quickly tensing every muscle in her body. "What, no response this time? Tell me, cat got your tongue?" He asked, snickering as his grip tightened.

She really did revolt him. Why she couldn't just listen, he didn't know. She had so much will, so much strength. He needed to break her -mostly- for his plan to work. Day in and day out he found himself standing above her, watching her writhe in pain or what not. It was almost tiresome -almost. While he quite enjoyed tormenting the girl, it was quickly becoming a chore. How Jareth put up with with her as a child, I'll never fathom. He thought.

Then he came back to reality. There he was, his mouth watering at the prospect of taking the poor girl right there on the stone floor of his great hall. His own bodily reaction disgusted him. No. I mustn't get carried away. She's lesser than me, an animal in comparison. I'm merely aroused by the physical fervor. I need her shattered, but clean. She must be pure. He told himself, snapping himself out of his testosterone rush.

With a twitch of his lips Severin flexed his arm, tugging it swiftly and casting Sarah across the stone floor. The moment she landed, she clasped a hand around her throat and gagged incessantly, coughing as if there were a bag of rocks stuck in her throat.

Severin stared down at her, watching her squirming form with a nasty sneer. He was back, mind stone and clear. He took a couple steps until he loomed over her, and wordlessly bent down to clasp a hand into her hair at the nape of her neck. Sarah gave a strangled shriek, still recovering from her lack of oxygen. She started kicking and flailing effortlessly, unable to fight the strength of a Fae. Severin gave a menacing laugh as he dragged Sarah's frantic body down the hall and into the darkness.


"Jareth!" Sarah woke, tears streaming down her face. Her heart pounded against her chest, and her body was drenched in sweat. As soon as she'd woken, the familiarly eerie dim light began to fill the room clearing out all the shadows.

Sarah's eyes darted left to right, up and down, and then in every other direction. She took a couple steady breathes realizing she was in her room in Jareth's castle.

"Oh, thank God..." She whispered in relief, closing her eyes until her body stilled. She'd never had that nightmare before -that memory. One of the many close calls between her and Severin. It wasn't very long after that one particular incident that she started to rein in her smart mouth. She gave a deep sigh. Calm down Sarah, he never raped you, he never violated you that way. She told herself over and over. So? What he did do to you wasn't much better...and I thought I was going to sleep good tonight.

Sarah's hand rested against her heart, feeling the thump start to rest. Jareth hasn't raped you yet... The little voice in the back of her head chimed in. The thought soothed her momentarily. He has violated me, repeatedly -already. I've only been her a couple days. It probably won't be long until he does... She let out a sigh. I'm not sure it would be rape though... Her thoughts retorted. With a thump, she threw herself into the mattress. She winced slightly, her body still ached -everything from her red rear to her tingling fingers. This isn't real pain... She thought, letting herself relax.

Jareth, Jareth, Jareth...What are you going to do to me? she wondered, gazing up at the golden hued stone of the ceiling. I know what I'd like to do to you... She caught herself smiling. Ah yes, there it was, the thought that put Sarah's body at ease, and made all the pain and fear just melt away. She grinned into her pillow, playing over the devilish vision that was Jareth from that night.

He was so tall and glowing, wearing those tight black pants and a matching black poets shirt with the chest very much wide open. She recalled seeing the glint of his pendant as it bounced off his sternum as he lead her down the hall. His light blonde hair stood out like a star against the eternal blackness of his apparel. He was smoldering, dominant, and totally betrayed the odd display of casual normalcy she felt as he took her hand and walked her back to her room. He justified the look however with what happened once they arrived. She drew her leg up, and smiled and winced all at once. She was so sore, but it was a good feeling. No one's ever touched me like that... She thought, recalling her very first orgasm at his finger tips.

Hmm...spanking, finger-fucking torment...things he's done to me. He hasn't made me do anything to him... The thought struck her, spurring new questions. He hasn't asked me to reciprocate...he must have some blue balls... She wanted to snicker, but a graver thought took over. Maybe he's just not affected that way by me...Maybe this is JUST his form of punishment. Maybe he doesn't desire me in the slightest... She felt herself frown. No. She shook her head clear of despairing. I saw his expression, he was flustered -frustrated. He was going to kiss me for a moment there, I know it! Her voice of hope sang. He must...he walked me back himself -holding my hand. He said I was beautiful...

Sarah's thoughts diverted to yet another memory, the only other time she'd ever felt truly beautiful; and incidentally, it was because of him. It was four years ago, and she was dancing in a bubble. Everything was so gorgeous... She thought. Me, him, everything... If I had only known then what he was really into. Sweet, gentle and romantic Jareth didn't seem to be his norm from the recent experiences she'd had with him. ...And that's ok...I think. She rationalized. I like this Jareth...Sure, it'd be fucking miraculous if he just up and swooped me off my feet, made love to me like the alien God he is and flew me away into the sunset for all of eternity...But that really would be a miracle -a dream. Spanking, chains, sexual torture-This is the real Jareth, a Jareth I can seem to handle (thus far)...He definitely seems affected by me...maybe with time? She groaned into her pillow, wondering what nerve-wracking adventures awaited her the next day.


Jareth's eyes shot open. He didn't lurch up in bed, but his heart was racing and his mind a was frantic.

"Gods...What in the Underground was that?" He asked the darkness of his room. He felt too contained, flustered all of the sudden and sat up in bed shifting the blankets around him. The fireplace to the side of the room lit up spontaneously.

"That fucking scream.." He hissed under his breath. He'd heard it so many times, and yet this time it was different somehow. It was as if someone has shouted right into his eardrum, while before it was just a haunting shriek all around him. What is going on... He thought in frustration. These dreams are connected to Sarah, but why am I having them? What is causing this? Does she suffer from them as well? His mind rambled, trying to reign itself in.

He looked over towards the hearth, the way the golden light flickered across his chambers seemed to sooth him. After a moment, his head cleared, and he took a deep breath, running his hands through his hair as he fell back into his bed. I must get to the bottom of this. He told himself, remarking on the newly discovered fact that he was easily distracted when it came to Sarah. Why was that so much more vivid? He wondered.

Letting out a deep sigh, Jareth ran his hands from his hair down to his face, clasping them in front of his nose.

"Why do you unnerve me so?" He asked the dark canopy over his bed. A simple shriek had never affected him, certainly not this way. He found himself almost shudder as he thought of it, and felt such a burning call to put an end to it. But what did that mean to him exactly? I have to stop getting carried away with this girl...

He thought back to that evening, and all the delicious hours he'd spent tantalizing Sarah's senses. He'd gotten carried away then, right from the git-go. She's just go God damn willing... He argued to himself. How could he not take advantage? So small, and frail, and beautiful...and mine. That last thought made his nostrils flare and his face flush. Why did she affect him so? It couldn't simply be her physical appeal, could it? Perhaps it was their shared history... His mind drifted back to those grueling thirteen hours four years ago, a place he rarely visited.

He let out another sigh, though this one held something -resentment? remorse? So young... Why did you have to be so young? His thoughts asked. He pictured a dark haired girl, little more than a child, in an overly puffy shirt and a patterned vest wandering around his Labyrinth. Any thoughts of that day usually made him furious, and sent him into a black rage that his subjects ended up regretting. Then why did you help her win? The little voice chimed through his anger. She beat you at your game, on her end it was fair and square. It continued to lecture, calming the anger that had started climbing up from his chest. All the trickery and cheating, all the help you didn't have to give her. She won, you let it happen.

He closed his eyes, the impending anger now gone for some reason. Why was he so calm about this all of the sudden? You have her now, she's not leaving this time. She's willing, she's yours. The voice played over and over.

"Why must I keep telling myself that?" He asked himself. Because you've been waiting to say it since the first time she stared up at you with those burning green eyes, over four years ago. Jareth's eyes opened once again with that thought. Where did that come from?

Four years ago...Sarah's nineteen now, a woman in every sense -except one. How time has changed her... He shook his head, ridding himself of the instant burning flush that swarmed across his face. Generally, the situation was very simple. Sarah defeated his Labyrinth. He was angry. Now she's his slave. He was happy. So why do things feel so complicated?


Sarah rubbed her eyes as soft light began to fill the room. She rolled onto her stomach, groaning at the intrusion. She heard a shuffle, a pitter pattering of sorts. She opened her eyes and huffed.

"Is it really six am already?" She asked, sitting up to face Maab, who was busy rummaging through Sarah's dresser.

"Well, good morning Sarah. I'm glad to see you're still alive." Maab called from over her shoulder, trying to mask her worry with sarcasm. Last night had been rattling for the little creature to say the least. She wanted so desperately to seek out Sarah, but she was deathly terrified of her king. She wasn't used to feeling conflicted, an effect Sarah seemed to have on many in the Underground.

"Uh, yes. I'm still alive, why wouldn't I be?" Sarah asked with a yawn. Maab stopped what she was doing, and turned to look at the girl.

"I couldn't find you yesterday. His Majesty was...unusual. I was very worried about you. Are you alright?" She asked, letting the concern show in her face. Sarah's eyes clenched as she stretched her arms. She was startled when every joint in her shoulders cracked. Ah, geez I'm sore... Her thoughts muttered. Maab dashed to the bed side, seeing Sarah wince in pain.

"Deary, are you ok?" She exclaimed, like the overprotective mother she was proving to be. Sarah let out a lazy chuckle.

"Heh, yes Maab. I'm fine, just a little sore is all." Sarah said, turning her upper body from side to side so as to crack every bone in her back. Gah, that feels good... She thought.

"What did His Majesty do to you?" Maab asked, trying to reach up to Sarah. Sarah laughed again.

"Oh, nothing too bad. He was going to punish you for being late, but I couldn't have that. So I told him to punish me instead. I'm fine though, really." Sarah explained, not catching the Goblins expression gape.

"Why-why would you do that?" She asked, her hands frozen in place. Sarah continued to stretch.

"Because you're my friend. I don't want to see you hurt on my behalf. I know the kind of punishment Goblins go through. I didn't want that for you." Sarah said with a sigh, as her muscles finally relaxed. Maab's eyes widened even more.

"So you chose it for yourself? Sarah, the reason Goblins face harsher punishments is because we can take more to begin with. We are magic, and are generally unaffected by most traditional forms of discipline. For you to take that on is most certainly suicide. You're a mortal, you can't handle that kind of pain. Why? Why would you risk that?" Maab rambled, practically shouting at the dear girl.

Sarah gaped down at her wrinkled friend, bewildered as to the creatures rant and rave.

"Maab, I told you. You're my friend. It's as simple as that." Sarah stated, her tone soft but serious. Maab took a breath, relaxing slightly.

"You think I'm your friend?" She asked, the word sounding foreign to her. Sarah shook her head in disbelief.

"I know you're my friend. Now, stop all this. I'm fine, you can see that. He didn't punish me the way he would a Goblin. It's really not that bad." Sarah tried to ease her friend's tension, only failing in making it spike up once more.

"Not that bad? How can you say such things? Are you that accustomed to pain my dear? What in the Underground has happened to you to give you such an outlook?" She exclaimed. Sarah blinked.

"Accustomed to pain? Um, kind of, I guess. Seriously though. What Jar-His Majesty did wasn't that bad. I can handle it." She said, holding up hands of appeasement. Maab's stance relaxed, but her rant continued.

"Sarah, His Majesty is unpredictable. Don't test him. I appreciate what you've done for me but...please, please don't do it again." She pleaded up to her mortal friend. Sarah was a bit awestruck. She's really worried about me? Wow... Sarah thought.

"Alright, Maab. I won't take the blame for you again. If you're really that worried." Sarah reconciled. Maab's shoulders slumped, the anxiety leaving her body.

"Good." She said, turning back to her business in the dresser. Sarah watched with intrigue. "Hurry up and bathe dear, you need to eat before you report to His Majesty this morning." She announced. This time, it was Sarah's expression that gaped.

"What?" She asked, unable to take her eyes from the Goblin's form. Maab resumed her rummaging through Sarah's drawers.

"His Majesty has made it pertinent that you are well fed this morning, as I failed to do so last night. He's also requested you report to him this morning when you are ready." She explained. Sarah cocked her head to one side.

"Has he now? That's a bit odd, wouldn't you say?" Sarah asked, playing through every devilish possibility for Jareth wanting to see her.

"It's not for me to say." Maab answered, turning and giving Sarah a waving motion. "Come on now, up and at it! You don't want to keep him waiting. Bath." She said, pointing to the rickety door leading to her dismal little bathroom.

Sarah shrugged and crawled out of bed, stretching her toes across the cold stone as she made her exit from the comfort of her bed. She pattered quietly past Maab to the door, peering up at the spot on the ceiling that once held a chain. She caught herself smiling as she closed the door behind her.


Sarah emerged shortly after, all clean and ready to go. She had another simple servant's dress on, paled blue and extremely simple. She turned to greet Maab who was waiting with a disapproving nod.

"You'll have to wear this today." She said, referring to the deep red gown that had been lain across the bed. Sarah's brow furrowed in confusion.

"What? Why?" She asked, looking from Maab to the dress and back again. The Goblin shrugged.

"His Majesty's orders." Was her response. Without another word from Sarah, Maab shuffled across the room to a small table Sarah could have sworn wasn't there a moment ago and removed the lid to what revealed to be a very tantalizing breakfast.

"Seriously?" Sarah gaped. What's with the five star treatment all of the sudden? Her mind exclaimed.

Maab took a step back to allow Sarah to sit at the table, observing as the girl devoured the entire plate like there was no tomorrow.

"Hungry are we? Good. His Majesty instructed me to make sure you finished everything. He seemed to imply that you may be reluctant, but..." Her voice trailed off, a little concerned and wowed by the rate at which Sarah was demolishing her food.

Sarah was ecstatic. Bacon, toast, ham, pancakes, the works. She hadn't seen this kind of food in God knows how long. She felt her stomach grumble the moment Maab took off the plate covering, releasing all that wonderful smell into the room. This is just fucking fantastic. She thought, shoving another forkful into her mouth.

"So, His Majesty said I have to eat all of this? Why? Is he trying to fatten me up for Christmas dinner?" Sarah asked, skimming the last bit of toast in her egg. Maab couldn't help but crack a smile.

"I wouldn't know dear." She said, her voice all soft and warm.

"So, I really have to wear that?" Sarah asked, pointing towards the bed with her fork. Maab shook her head yes. "It looks...richer, than what I'm used to." She said, trying to examine it at a distance.

"Yes...it is." Maab said with wary. She too had been wondering why her king would command such a thing. The situation between him and this girl was growing more and more interesting by the hour.

"Done!" Sarah exclaimed, dropping her fork on the plate and shaking Maab from her daze. The Goblin quirked an approving eyebrow.

"Good, now go get dressed." She said, scuttling to clear the table. Sarah stood, with a childish grin on her face. I haven't had breakfast in so long...God that was so good.

Sarah stood and made her way over to the bed, picking up the strange dress by the shoulders and holding it out at arms length. It was a deep blood red, and made of a slightly finer material than the dress she wore now. It was still very simple, long sleeved and ankle length. But it flowed, and looked as if it were more fitted. The neckline was deeper however, a square cut that she assumed showed a little cleavage. No complaints there. She cheered. The dress also came with a matching pair of red slippers, ones that looked far more comfortable than the plain worn beige ones she wore now.

Giving the dress and acceptable nod, she turned on her heel and headed back into the bathroom. She emerged two minutes later, donned in her new uniform. She twirled slightly, watching the way the dress flowed around her legs. Why do I feel like such a princess right now? Geez, get a grip Sarah, all you've done is had breakfast! She lectured, her mind secretly scowling at the smile that was more than plastered to her face.

"Very nice dear." Maab said with equal approval. Not another moment later, Maab made her way to the door, beckoning Sarah along with her. "Come on dear, we don't have all day for you to gawk." She kidded, smirking at the awe Sarah found just watching the dress twirl around her hips.

"Right, yeah. Coming." Sarah said, forcing herself from her cheery daze.


Sarah walked alongside Maab, paying close attention to every turn and dip they took. I need to start learning my way around. Her mind quirked. The thought of which brought a question to mind.

"Maab, you need to know where you're going to find your way around the castle right? That's why I got lost?" Sarah asked. Maab pursed her lips in thought.

"Yes, why do you ask?" She responded. Sarah gave a small shrug.

"Surely just walking with someone who knows where their going is enough right? I mean, you're not holding my hand or anything." Sarah continued. Maab glanced up, but Sarah was staring straight ahead.

"Um, no deary. One would think that fact was apparent since I am indeed not holding your hand." She said, unsure of what the intentions with Sarah's question were. She saw a faint smile crease the girl's lips in the dim light of the hall.

"I thought so. Just checking." She said, the smile becoming more evident as she spoke. Hmm. Maab thought.

Soon after, the two approached a door. It was rather large, and made of a fine dark wood. Beyond that, there weren't any special carving or anything that might give a clue as to what lie on the other side. Maab stood, and turned to Sarah. The expression on her face made it apparent they had reached their destination.

"This is as far as I go, dear." She said, letting her arms fall limp in a failed shrug. Sarah's gaze went from Maab to the door, her stance tensed a bit.

"Do you need to come back for me at all?" She asked, hoping and not hoping to repeat last nights endeavors. The Goblin frowned.

"No dear, my orders are not to return for you." She stated. Sarah's face flushed a ghostly white for a split second, and turned her gaze back to the silent door. The sight of it made her uncomfortable now, as if it were brooding or something. Something big was going to happen on the other side of that door. She knew it. And she was a little caught of guard by the fact that she was more fearful than excited this time.

"Alright, well...If I never see you again, it was nice knowing you." Sarah said with a smile. Maabs mouth fell open. "I'm kidding. I'm sure I'll see you soon. Save some cleaning for me, and tell all the Goblins in the kitchen I had a lot of fun okay?" Sarah asked, trying to recoil from her failed joke. Maab's expression softened slightly.

"Of course deary." She said, turning on her heel and heading back down the corridor from whence they came.

Sarah took a breath, squaring her shoulders and schooling her face. I can do this, it won't be bad. Stop being so nervous, Sarah. She lectured herself. Slowly, ever-so-slowly, she turned the knob on the handle, and let the heavy door creak open.


As the door fell open, Sarah paused then took a step into the room. Crossing the threshold was like a bucket of cold water on her face. The room was uncomfortably still, and stark with nothing but the ticking of a grandfather clock in the far corner of the room. The room was long and rectangular, each wall lined with tall extravagant bookcases filled to the brim. To the right, there was a fireplace already lit and a couple couches and chairs placed around it. There were tables and desk further down. To the left, there were small desks and cabinets, she spotted a table donned with what she assumed to be wine and a bucket of ice. The floor was made of the same dark wood as everything else, and was draped with a long rug that looked rich and exotic. There was a window at the far end of the room, heavy curtains trailed to the floor giving off a warm glow. They were the same blood red as her dress.

As she took another step into the room, her eyes focused on the silhouetted form of a large office desk, shadowed slightly from the bright morning light. She could see books and papers and quills on it. What she noticed last was probably what she should have noticed first -Jareth, sitting at his desk with his head cast down.

Sarah stopped dead with a deer-caught-in-the-headlights expression on her face. How could she not have noticed him the minute she opened the door? Here she was casually strolling and gawking in his study, and here he was -sitting directly in front of her, his head buried in some stack of papers.

She waited for him to look up, to notice her, but he didn't. He continued to stare down at his papers, his forehead resting in the palm of his hand. He looked exhausted. He looked beautiful. The early morning light cast an almost halo around with wild hair.

Today, he wore a simple frilly white poets shirt, untied in the front revealing the teasing skin of his chest. He had on his signature black leather gloves, and wore a silver version of his pendant around his neck. She couldn't see what he wore below the belt. The thought made her blush. Stop gawking Sarah! He's probably angry you didn't knock first! Gah, why aren't you thinking? What is it about this place that makes me so careless? Her panicking mind screamed at her.

Sarah stood awkwardly, a mere ten feet away from the fearsome Goblin King. She focused on the ticking of the clock to still her nerves, trying to glance at anything but him. Her head was cast low, and her hands were clasped out in front of her. She wanted so desperately to speak up. The silence seemed to stretch on forever, though it was only a minute or two.

"I believe it's proper manners to knock before entering a room, Sarah dear." Jareth's voice rumbled over her and she felt a chill run down her spine, but she didn't answer. She merely stared, waiting for him to look up at her. After another moment, he set his quill down, and looked up with a half smile. It was as if his gaze on hers was the key to her vocal chords.

"I-I I'm sorry, Your Majesty. I don't know what I was thinking. I apologize, please forgive me." Sarah rambled, darting her eyes everywhere but at him. She dipped her body into a low bow, noticing the way her new dress accommodated such a movement. Jareth's lips quirked up in a smirk.

"And you are forgiven." He said, his voice that same sensual rumble. Sarah's eyes darted up to his, though her body remained low.

Jareth leaned back in his chair, stretching out as he did so. He was quiet a moment, letting Sarah stew in her bewilderment. Sarah's heart started pounding, glancing up at the way his body stretched and turned. Soo sexxyy... Jareth's eyes narrowed and his lips twitched again, sensing the probable reason for her discomfort.

"Stand." He commanded, his eyes glued to her as she slowly rose from her submitted position. Once again, Sarah stood awkwardly facing the Goblin King, her fingers knotting as he rose from his seat and made his way around the desk to her. Sarah's breath hitched once he was directly in front of her.

Jareth stood a mere foot away from Sarah, reveling in her discomfort at his presence. His gaze was dark and locked onto her innocent face, while hers was doing its best to look anywhere but at him. He smiled something sinister.

"Look at me." He said, letting the words roll off his tongue. Immediately, Sarah's face darted up to his, all wide-eyed and expectant. Jareth felt his chest rise, there was just something about that look.

He took a step back, keeping his eyes low as he slowly circled her, examining her as if she were a show horse. Ummm... Sarah's mind murmured nervously. Her fingers were clenched so tight she couldn't hardly feel them.

Jareth slowly made his way around Sarah, taking in every fine detail her dress left for him. Hmm, good choice. He appraised himself, noting the way her new dress hugged her hips and exposed the soft skin lining her bosom. He also noted the way the color brought out her hair and the paleness of her skin. She looked smoldering, ravenous. Most definitely a good choice... He thought again.

"Do you know why you're here, Sarah?" He asked, tapping his index finger against his lips. Sarah fought her gasp, recalling just how close those lips were to hers.

"Uh, no. Your Majesty." She said, as if dazed. Jareth tilted his head, but continued his walk until he made his way once more to his desk.

"Please, have a seat." He said, gesturing towards an empty chair to the side of her, and easing into his own. Hmm, why does this seem familiar.. She thought, referring back to her strange interview with him the previous day. Why are we in a different study? This one is much more notable than the other one...

Sarah sat cautiously, balancing on the edge of the chair with her ankles crossed and her hands clasped out in front of her. Jareth smirked. Maybe I got the job? She half joked to herself.

"I've given your recent stay here some thought." He started, holding her gaze. She gulped, having no idea where he was going with this. "I've decided you aren't really fitting in with the kitchen crew here, are you?" He asked, giving her a snakes grin and a glint on some deeper reference she wasn't catching on to. Ah, he means the kitchen battle... She realized after a moments thought.

"Um, I'm doing my best. But, if His Majesty has decided otherwise, then I must agree." She answered, wary of the words she chose. Jareth shifted in his chair.

"I'm glad you agree." He said, his sneer widening. "Because I have something else in mind." He finished, Sarah's face paled at the dark intent in his stare. Her mouth opened and closed, searching for the will to speak. He didn't let her. "You said you were Severin's personal servant? Slave to his every beck and call?" He asked. She nodded. "Well...I could use a personal servant. One that's more intelligible than the usual humdrum Goblin." He paused, allowing Sarah to gape some more.

He wants me to be his personal servant! To follow him around all day? (and night?) This means I get to spend more time with him... Sarah thought, trying to decide if that were a good or bad thing. Yes, he's dangerous but... And that's all she needed, a but... Sarah finished her contemplation just in time to catch what Jareth said next.

"Everything you were to Severin you will be to me, and more." He said, letting the ending purr off his tongue. Sarah fought to keep her expression neutral. And more? What does he mean, and more? Her thoughts screamed with excitement. "Do you understand?" He asked, watching the uncertain struggle on her face.

"Yes." Sarah said, almost immediately. Jareth leaned back in his seat, folding his arms behind his head. Sarah's fingers tightened.

"Excellent. Now, let me explain the ground rules. First, as I'm sure you've noticed, your wardrobe has been updated. If I'm going to have you following me around all day I'll need you looking semi-presentable." He said with a smile. Sarah felt her cheeks blush, but she didn't know why. "Next, I'll need you here at five instead of six." Sarah's heart dropped. Seriously! How the hell does he expect me to get up that early every day? "I have a lot of work that needs to be done, and so I rise with the sun daily. I'll need you to report to me by five, and we'll start the day at five-thirty." He said, his voice crystal and serious. He leaned forward and even tapped his finger down in the desk. Sarah stared, and gave an understanding nod. Five-thirty? What am I supposed to do for the first half hour? She wondered. "Third, I read through and sign a lot of paperwork. I'll need to organize and even sort through some of it. I don't think I need to explain the importance of royal documents and their careful safekeeping?" He asked, quirking an eyebrow at her.

"I understand." Sarah whispered, feeling her shoulders relax slightly when his expression softened.

"Fourth, You'll be accompanying me to all my endeavors within the castle. I'll need you to pay attention and scribe notes for each day. Fifth, you will be doing a lot of running around, collecting errands, delivering food and such. You'll need to learn your way around the castle rather urgently. Do you think you can manage?" He asked, his eyes sincere. Sarah blanched. He's actually asking me if I can handle it? What? She couldn't believe it.

"Yes, Your Majesty." She answered. Jareth glanced off to the side before continuing.

"Very good. You will be dismissed only when I explicitly say so. I'll instruct you on any other duties I wish you to perform should they arise." He stated, all business like. Geez, I guess this really was a job interview. She secretly rolled her eyes.

There was a moment of silence, as Sarah relaxed to Jareth's presence, and Jareth silently contemplated the implications of what he had just done.

"Have you eaten?" He asked finally, breaking the awkward silence. Sarah's head darted up from her silent daze.

"Uh, yes. Maab had a breakfast prepared for me this morning. Thank you." She responded, her expression not quite showing the gratitude she truly felt. Why was she so dazed? Jareth tilted his head slightly.

"Good." Jareth said. His voice was soft, and his eyes were locked on hers, though Sarah's gaze was cast off into no where. What are you thinking? He wondered.

Jareth's thoughts were put on pause as his head darted to the side once the chiming of the grandfather clock started to echo through the room. 7 am. He'd wasted so much time already.

"Well, let's get started then shall we?" He asked with a trademark grin.


Sarah found herself falling perfectly into the role of Jareth's eternal secretary. After their discussion he'd given her many...many... stacks of papers to file, and instructed her on the guidelines on which to sort through the undocumented papers. She was a great deal nervous at first, not sure how deal ing with Jareth would play through. But he was stern and business like, and mostly kept quiet except when instructing her, and held his attention on his business. Reading through the stacks of papers was daunting, but a welcome distraction and focus for her. She caught herself smiling with satisfaction once she slipped the last paper into its appropriate file. She didn't notice Jareth's wandering gaze, or the brief smile that followed hers.

After that, Sarah accompanied Jareth to his daily court. She stood off to the side with parchment and pen, documenting everything that happened. After the first two hours of standing Sarah started to grow bored, but the thankfulness of her new job and the curiousness of each case kept her spirits up. Really, Goblins are the oddest creatures... She thought, shaking her head at the furry bunch who were so devastated by the collateral damage done to their houses during a voluntary chicken launching competition -at their houses. And Jareth has to sit through this every day? She gasped to herself, stealing a quick glance at the now more than obviously bored and slightly irritated Goblin King. She caught herself snickering at him. There he was, lounging in his thrown with one leg strewn over the arm of the chair. His right arm rested on the throne, supporting his forehead in the palm of his hand. He was scowling, and shaking his head from side to side. Sarah's brow twitched when she caught glimpse of the leather riding crop he so timely tapped against his boot. Ooh...riding crop... She thought.

They went to a meeting after that, Jareth's large council. She sat in the corner, again taking notes and serving Jareth's beck and call, while he sat at the head of a large table discussing local issues and plans for his kingdom. Sarah briefly wondered if she should be privy to all this knowledge, but dismissed her concern. If Jareth wanted her there, than she could listen all she wanted.

Sarah tried not to look bored as the Goblins started to exit the large council meeting, only standing once Jareth stood. He stretched his arms out and gave her a quick glance, nodding his head as an indication for her to follow.

Sarah scuttled behind the curiously quiet Goblin King. She did her best all day to pay attention to the direction of the halls, and she thought she could probably make her way back to the study, or the throne room. As they walked in silence, Sarah caught glimpses of familiar marking on the walls. We're going back to his study? She wondered.

Upon arriving at Jareth's study, Sarah stood most timidly. She'd been kept busy and content all day, thoroughly distracted. But these lone silent walks, and momentary pauses made her nervous. He hadn't casually spoken to her all day, and she had to admit she was a little glad for it.

Jareth casually opened the door to his study, turning to face Sarah as they both stood.

"After you, Sarah." He said, with an all too friendly smile. Sarah's eyes widened a bit, but she took his offer and scuttled into the room. She caught his faint snicker as he followed, closing the door behind him. "Please, have a seat. You must be tired from standing during court today." He said, gesturing her towards a chair adjacent the fireplace. Sarah's brow furrowed, but she obeyed.

Take a polite stance on the edge of her seat, Sarah waited for Jareth's command, eyeing him warily as he crossed her to take a seat in an accompanying chair in front of her. Sarah unknowingly knotted her fingers.

Leaning forward, Jareth resting his forearms on his knees, getting just a bit to close for Sarah's comfort.

"Are you hungry?" He asked, letting his lips curl up in a smile. Sarah's brow twitched. What is it with him and food? Shit, I'm not a fucking twig. Am I? She secretly scowled.

"Not particularly, Your Majesty." She said out of pure spite for his backhanded offer. Jareth almost laughed.

"It's well past midday, and neither of us have eaten. I know I'm famished, would you care to join me for lunch?" He asked, his voice light and buoyant. Sarah shifted uncomfortably.

"If His Majesty so desires..." She said, trying not to meet his gaze.

"I do." He stated very matter-of-factly.

Snapping his fingers, a small Goblin appeared in the room, jittering with anticipation. Jareth's eyes never left her face..

"I would normally ask you to retrieve our meal, but seeing how you still can't manage your way back to the kitchen, I think I'll take care of it for now." He said, his tone almost mocking her. She wanted to stick her tongue out at him. Stop Sarah, why are you having all these rude urges all of the sudden? You should be learning more from him not less! She scolded herself. "I desire something to eat. Bring the lady and myself something for lunch, something light I think." He said to the Goblin, glancing up at Sarah as he spoke. Why was she so nervous all of the sudden? Is it perhaps because I've finally got you alone sweet thing? He tried to hide his mocking smile.

The Goblin bounded a few more times before quickly vacating the room, leaving Sarah completely alone with Jareth once more. Feeling his eyes on her, she tore her gaze towards the fire, silently running a hand up and down the length of her arm. Jareth frowned.

"You do that so often. One must wonder the reason why." Jareth stated, though his brow quirked up in a question. Sarah let out the breath she wasn't aware she'd been holding.

"Habit, I guess." She answered, just over a whisper. Jareth tilted his head, and leaned in a little further. She didn't notice, or simply wasn't affected by it.

"And what causes such a habit?" He asked, more directly. Sarah's fingers curled into the fabric concealing her upper arm.

"Reoccurring afflictions." Sarah muttered without thinking. What was up with her all of the sudden? She felt so hollow, so numb. Sarah, this your chance! You can finally have a normal conversation with him! What the hell is wrong with you? The little voice in the back of her head rang. Maybe that was it, she was afraid of this -of having a normal conversation. She didn't know this man, this Fae. What could they possibly talk about? Last night? Psh, he doesn't even seem to remember last night. She thought, shifting uncomfortably as the the familiar soreness came back to her.

Jareth's scowl threatened to consume his entire face. He was so curious to find out more about this girl. He wanted to simply demand the wanted information out of her, yet he found himself tip toeing around her feelings, concerned with making her comfortable enough to discuss such things with him. What the hell was happening?

As Jareth's frown deepened, his gaze lowered with it, locking onto Sarah's fingers as they dug into the soft fabric of the sleeve of her gown. He'd kept the sleeves long on purpose. He scowled further with his own planned consideration.

"That dress looks lovely on you. The color makes your skin glow." He said, now lost in his own unhappy daze. Sarah stiffened, and turned her head to face him. He wasn't staring at her, or at her face rather. He was hunched over in his seat, staring down -at her dress...at her hand? She wondered. She was about to say something when a familiar Goblin suddenly appeared carrying two large trays.

Both shaken from their dazes, they turned simultaneously in their seats to face the table and one another. Once the Goblin placed the trays in front of Jareth and Sarah, it gave a deep bow and then quickly disappeared. Sarah uncovered her tray to find a very appetizing looking salad with a bowl of fruit and a ripped section of bread. Her stomach grumbled, maybe she really was hungry after all.

Jareth was busy doing the same thing, unfolding his napkin and readying his silverware. Sarah glanced up at him. It was so...normal. Before she could catch herself gawking, Jareth's eyes darted up to hers.

"Would you like a glass of wine?" He asked, quite politely. Sarah blinked, registering the moment.

"Yes, but I must insist on gathering refreshments, Your Majesty. Would you like some wine as well?" She asked, reaffirming her position as his servant not his...his what?...lunch date? This time, it was Jareth who blinked.

"That would be lovely." He said, watching her like a hawk as she mad her way to the small wine table. Gathering two tall glasses, she poured the thick red liquid, giving the glasses a steady twirl as she did so. Once she was satisfied, she approached the king, reaching down to place his glass on the table. She twitched slightly when he reached up and took it from her grasp, letting his cool gloved fingers graze over hers. With a nervous gulp, Sarah took her seat and a deep swig of wine. Jareth couldn't help but smirk.

"Thank you, Your Majesty." Sarah peeped after a while. Jareth quirked his brow at her. "For allowing me to dine with you, I mean." She added, not meeting his gaze. Jareth's eyes narrowed on her.

"Sarah, look at me." He said, with subtle demand. Sarah gently placed her fork down and rose her face to meet his, her expression revealing nothing.

"Are you not enjoying your new position?" He asked, careful of his own wording. Sarah's mouth went dry. This was it, he was actually trying to talk to her, and she couldn't stifle a God damn smile of appreciation. What was wrong with her?

"I'm sorry, please forgive me, Your Majesty. I'm quite enjoying my new employment. It's just..." She tried to glance away, but felt his gaze warning her not to. "I am to be to you what I was to Severin. Severin never offered me to dine with him...He never offered me to dine at all..." Her voice trailed off, and she heard the clink of her fork as it fell from her hand onto the plate. Jareth's brow creased with genuine concern.

"So I can see." He said, taking in the sadness of her beautiful sunken in face.

"This is just...hard to wrap my head around after -everything...that I'm used to." She muttered under her breath. Jareth felt an honest pang in his chest, though he wasn't sure what it was. Sympathy? Hurt? Anger? It didn't matter, it shouldn't matter.

"And what are you used to?" He asked, thoroughly engrossed in every reaction her face gave way to. Sarah's mouth opened, but nothing came for a moment.

"Yelling, lots of yelling. Kicking, punching, slapping, throwing, pushing, pulling, cutting, burning." Her breath caught in her throat after that, and she couldn't say anymore.

Cutting? Burning? He burnt her? That son of a bitch burnt her! Rage exploded deep within him, shocking him more than anything. He was so instantly enraged. Why was he so enraged? The thought of Severin marring her body in such a way made his skin bubble with violent intent. He was more curious now than ever as to what exactly she was hiding beneath her gown, and felt the need to take his frustrations out on her to do just that.

Jareth stared at Sarah with fire and awe, physically restraining himself. His body had tensed as he fought within himself to wrangle his unexpected outburst. Sarah failed to notice the fumes and tension radiating from Jareth, she was lost in some flashback or nightmare, she couldn't tell the difference anymore.

After a few moments of silence, Jareth finally managed to control his inner conflict. Why am I so angry? Angry with Severin, angry with her, with myself...Why do I want to scream at her so badly? Make her tell me everything that's happened? I don't-I don't want to hurt her... A vision of himself shredding that mouthwatering dress just to see what lay underneath made him shudder with both disgust and desire. He shook his head, this was not the time to do deal with this.

He gazed back up at Sarah, who had absentmindedly started picking at her food, though she wasn't eating it. Jareth placed the cover back over his meal and with a snap of his fingers it vanished. Sarah's eyes darted up at him, surprised by his sudden movement.

"Finish your food. Report to me in the throne room when you're done." He said, rising from his seat and swiftly exiting the room.


Sarah was left with a loud thud as the door shut behind him. She was still a bit lost, but she knew that hadn't gone well. He was angry. With her? He certainly would have made it apparent if he was wouldn't he? She asked herself. The longer Sarah sat out of his presence, the closer she came back to reality. After a few minutes, she finally shook her head clear of what ever melancholy daze she had been in.

"Well that certainly could have gone better..." She mumbled, replaying all that she could recall from their lunch. Her eyes widened once she'd realized the extent of her depressed state. "Shit." She spat, quickly gulping down the remainder of her food.