Fly me to the moon
Let me play among the stars
Let me see what spring is like
On Jupiter and Mars
In other words, hold my hand
In other words, darling, kiss me
Fill my life with song
And let me sing for ever more
You are all I long for
All I worship and adore
In other words, please be true
In other words, I love you
-Frank Sinatra, Fly Me to the Moon
"Food and water supply?" Scribbles.
"Nearly back to normal, but since we're using magic to grow them, the nutrition level isn't that high. Livestock is coming back but slowly." Jareth put a tree figurine on his map to indicate farmland.
"How about homes?"
"Done."
"Other buildings like schools?"
"Not yet started. We don't have the materials necessary."
"Which will be done when you go to the ball for negotiations, yes?"
"Correct."
This went on and on. Sarah crossed off things that were done and wrote a note next to things that weren't done. She ripped off another page from her notebook and started drawing some hasty floor plans for said buildings.
Jareth watched his beloved's hair become less neat and her eyes growing more tired. It had been four months since Jareth had returned, and he brought her along with him once in a while to help with the restoration. But now, he was beginning to regret it.
"Sarah. You need a break." She didn't answer him and kept on scribbling.
"Sarah?"
He snatched her pencil and notebook. "Hey! Jareth!" She struggled to take her possessions back, but he was too quick, too tall, and better at magic than she was. She gave up and resorted to throwing a pillow at him. "What was that for?"
Jareth chucked the notebook on his desk. He put his arm around Sarah's shoulders and sat down with her on the couch. "Love, don't you think you need a break? You need to rest." He said firmly.
"I'm fine. I can't rest thinking about how the goblins and the other creatures that have suffered." Her voice broke. After Jareth confided her in their conditions, she didn't even want to eat Christmas dinner. It started a chain of reactions where she would practically starve herself and donate food or money to those who suffered in her own world. On top of that, her classes were getting more and more demanding. She hardly had any time for herself.
"I know Precious. I know. I feel the same way." He pressed his lips to her temple. "But if you push yourself like this, your ability to aid the goblins will lessen. Please understand this. I'd rather not put a sleeping spell on you." He teased, bopping her nose.
Sarah scrunched her face teasingly. "I'd rather you didn't either." She yawned. "Fine. I'll take a break from working on goblin stuff. But I'm not quite ready to sleep yet."
"Oh? And why is that?" Jareth lazily twirled a strand of her hair around his finger. His eyes got larger with realization. "Wait, is today the day..."
"Yes." Sarah reclined into his chest, relishing the feeling of his arms around her body, wrapping her in a safe cocoon. "I'm too lazy to get it though."
"If you wanted me to get it, you could've asked instead of hinting." Jareth rubbed a thumb against her cheek. He pulled something out of thin air, an envelope.
"I'm too nervous to open it." Sarah's heart was racing. She closed her eyes and concentrated on Jareth's hands rubbing up and down her arms to give her comfort.
His hair tickled her cheek and ear. "If I open it for you? Would that be alright?"
She handed the letter to him. "Just do it quickly."
Jareth rolled his eyes but did as he was told. He opened it and began to read.
"Dear Sarah Williams, thank you for applying-"
"Oh don't read any more." She flipped around and rested her head on his chest. "I already know I didn't make it."
Jareth smirked, ignoring her. "Thank you for applying to New York University. Congratulations! We are pleased to inform you of your acceptance to the-"
"AAAHHHH YES!"
Sarah bounced up and down, forgetting that she was on top of another living being. "I'M GOING TO NYU!" She jumped up and down, dancing.
Jareth snapped his fingers, transporting them both to the throne room. Sarah looked at him, confused. The King of Goblins clapped his hands and the goblins came about. "This calls for a celebration."
Snapping his fingers once more, a guitar solo rang through the castle, followed by some heavy bass. The king strutted around his Lady before taking her in his arms to dance to the rock.
There's a brand new dance
But I don't know its name
That people from bad homes
Do again and again
It's big and it's bland
Full of tension and fear
They do it over there but we don't do it here
"I thought you didn't like David Bowie?" Sarah brought her arms up and over her king. "Not that I'm complaining, Fashion is one of my favorite songs."
Jareth shook his head. "Didn't say anything about hating him. I love his music, actually. I'm just sick of being compared to him. We are both our own people, after all."
He did a back flip over some goblins. "Less talking, more celebrating." He winked.
The goblins were loving this new song. "It sounds like Kingy's Voice!" One of them yelled.
Fashion! Turn to the left
Fashion! Turn to the right
Oooh, fashion!
We are the goon squad
and we're coming to town
Beep-beep
Beep-beep
Listen to me - don't listen to me
Talk to me - don't talk to me
Dance with me - don't dance with me, no
Beep-beep
At "beep beep" Sarah kicked a few goblins who laughed in delight that their friend was joining in on their fun. Jareth raised an eyebrow and kicked four goblins with one foot. Sarah narrowed her eyes. "Game on, Goblin king!"
"I have a few centuries of experience on you when it comes to kicking goblins, Sarah-mine." At this, Jareth twirled around and kicked a few towards her direction, to which she propelled them backwards with a thought.
"Very good. Your magic is improving." Jareth danced closer to her. "Now, let's see your dancing!"
There's a brand new talk
But it's not very clear
That people from good homes
Are talking this year
It's loud and tasteless
And I've heard it before
You shout it while you're dancing
On the whole dance floor
Oh bop, fashion!
After the song faded away, Jareth took her in his arms and kissed her lips. Even now, she still felt butterflies in her stomach whenever he kissed her. It was the most amazing feeling in the world.
"Are you sure this is okay to do? In front of the goblins?" She asked him. They had been careful to not show any obvious affections unless they were Above or in private.
Jareth chuckled. "We're fine. The goblins listen to me, and while they babble, they wouldn't babble about us when I, the strongest being around, am in charge of protecting them. Besides, they like you." He gave her a kiss on her nose.
"I'm so proud of you." He whispered. "I knew you could do it. Don't ever doubt yourself."
Sarah once again felt tears in her eyes. It was because of this man before her that she gained confidence in herself, from the time she was little. Jareth had guided her to be her own person. She had defeated his Labyrinth. She had loved him and he loved her. And now, she was still accomplishing great things on her own and with him.
"I don't think I could've done it without you. Maybe I could've, but I wouldn't have it any other way." Sarah tangled her fingers in his hair and pressed her lips to his neck. "You've always had power me, Jareth."
He pulled her away from him. His eyes conveyed confusion and disbelief. "Sarah. I've NEVER had power over you. Don't you understand?"
Sarah was taken aback. "What do you mean?"
The king sighed. He reached for her hand. "That's the thing, you have ALWAYS been your own person. You've just been taught to think that you are not, that someone chooses for you. Think about it. The entire time, you fought back to me during your Run. And three years after that, you chose to take a chance with me. I couldn't force you to do any of it. Even the prophecy. We have been together because we both chose to. I never had power over you. It's always been in you. And that's another reason that I fell in love with you. I wanted you to choose me of your own volition."
They spent the good part of the next 15 minutes nipping and kissing, just ravishing each other until they fell asleep.
Jareth woke, seeing his love in his arms. He rested his chin on her head, kissing her softly to wake her. They still had on the same clothes from the night before and Sarah had a big day coming up.
"Precious?" He kisses behind her ear. "You're going to be late." He smirked. This was probably the first time that he had woken up before she did.
Sarah shifted. "Uh huh." She stretched and yawned. Her eyes went wide. "Oh no! I'm going to be late!"
In every American teenage girl's life, prom was always something to be talked about and looked forward to. Most girls gossiped about who would ask who, but Sarah, she just shrugged and opted to go with some girl friends. She had been spending an insane amount of time either working on her projects or being with Jareth that she hadn't spent a lot of time with her friends. And this was the year where she'd get her last chance with many of them before college.
She felt that it was too cheesy to ask Jareth to go to prom with her and she wanted that time spent with friends. Her parents and school teachers probably wouldn't be please to have someone his age show up at her school anyways. She was also worried that she'd just pay attention to her date more than her friends, which would make meeting up with them kind of pointless. Jareth didn't seem to mind, telling her that she should go and spend it with friends but he'd gladly go with her if she asked. Frankly, he found the ritual charming. The Above didn't have balls like it used to and this is was the closest thing they had.
"Well, it seems that you better get going." He planted another kiss on her head. "Go and have fun. Show me your dress when you're ready."
"How do I look?"
Sarah twirled around in her pastel-pink, A-like dress. It had tiny golden flowers embroidered all along the hem of her dress. It was simple but elegant, with her hair in a half-up and half-down style and pearl earrings.
"Just beautiful." Jareth breathed out. He was viewing her through his crystal. He was preparing his Goblin-free side of the castle for any guests that would come back with him to stay, so he was not able to see Sarah off. "The color suits you well. Like a flower princess."
Some shuffling could be heard. "Hey! Lemme see!" "Ludo see Sawah!" "My Lady?"
Jareth bit his bottom lip in annoyance, much to Sarah's amusement as he passed the crystal along to his subjects so they could share the joy in seeing her beauty. All expressed excitement in seeing her lovely dress.
"Well, I should get going. I'll be at my friend's house tonight afterwards, so I guess I'll talk tomorrow." She blew a kiss to everyone. When the crystal got back to Jareth, he had to shove a Goblin away so only he would be in the frame. "I love you, my dearest Sarah. I hope you have a wonderful time."
"I love you too. And I hope you have a good time at the ball." She blew a kiss to him as he rolled his eyes.
"Sure. Meeting with governments and having to explain my three years' absence. I'll let you know all my troubles and current gossip when I'm back." He have her a wink.
Sarah was getting a bit agitated, checking her watch over and over. The plan was for Kayla to drive Ellie and Martha to pick Sarah up, take photos at her house, go to a restaurant to eat dinner, then to the dance.
She took some pre-prom photos with her family while waiting. Karen and Robert were dressed nicely. Even Toby was behaving well. He beckoned Sarah closer to him to whisper in her ear. "You should ask Jareth to use magic to take you to prom and be your date."
Sarah smiled. "He's busy. And besides, I want to spend time with friends." She patted Toby's hair.
"Yeah. Friends who forget you." He huffed. An uncomfortable knot grew in her stomach as she realized that maybe it was true. Those friends weren't as close to her as others, but seeing as they didn't have dates, they just decided to all go together. Ever since she had won state wide on her science project and had other accomplishments, they had all been distant.
"Now now Toby." Karen warned. "We say nice things, alright?" Though her tone of voice was polite, Sarah could see Karen's disapproval and that she wholeheartedly agreed with Toby. "Sarah, why don't you try giving them a call?"
Sarah shrugged. "Okay. I'll call Ellie's parents."
She waited anxiously for someone to answer. A few rings, and then a "Hello? Jones residence."
"Hi Mr. Jones. This is Sarah Williams."
"Sarah? Oh hello! Shouldn't you be with Ellie and the other girls?"
"Well yes, that's actually what I'm calling about. They haven't arrived yet. Do you know where they are?" Sarah gripped the phone even tighter, her parents eyeing her with concern.
"Arrived? Ellie said you'd meet at the restaurant. Perhaps there's a mixup?"
Sarah twisted the phone cord in an attempt to calm herself down. "Oh. Uh, maybe I mixed it up. Thank you, Mr. Jones. Sorry to be a bother."
"No worries. Have a good time at prom!"
Karen pursed her lips and looked at Robert. "This doesn't feel right. I remember them clearly telling you this morning when they'd come."
Sarah waved dismissively. "It's okay. Can you drive me there? I hate to ask though."
Robert shrugged. "Not a problem. Jump in the car." He kissed Karen and Toby. "Be back in a jiffy."
"Have fun, Sarah!" Karen yelled after them. "We'll pick you up tomorrow evening from Kayla's house!" Sarah waved back and climbed next to her father.
Robert drove in silence for a while. Sarah raised her eyebrow at him drumming his fingers on the steering wheel. "Something's bothering you." She said frankly.
"Me? Nah." It was obvious that he was lying to her. Sarah saw a trickle of sweat on the side of his head. "Dad, please don't lie to me."
He sighed. "I'm just, I worry about you. You're going off to college soon. You have a boyfriend. Your friends have ditched you for some reason, don't even try to lie to yourself. I wanted the best for you but it seems that I'm not doing so well." He sniffed, holding back tears. "But you're doing so well on your own. And I'm so proud of you. I don't always say it or show it but I want you to remember it always."
Sarah reached for his hand. "I love you, Dad. I know you always mean well, don't worry."
They sat together, still silent. No words needed to be said about the bond that they shared together.
Sarah stepped out of the car, looking like a princess. She spotted her friend's eating outside and waved at them. "Hey guys!"
Kayla and Martha looked horrified while Ellie look disgusted, but Sarah was too far away to see their expressions. The trio pretended to wave excitedly back at her.
Sarah sat by them. "Sorry I'm late. I didn't know we were meeting here." She waved down a waiter to take her order. "When did we change plans?"
Ellie shrugged. "Doesn't matter now. You're here."
The girls continued their conversation, interjecting Sarah every time she tried to speak. When they didn't do that, they'd just stare blankly at her comments and make her feel awkward.
Ellie tried to drink her water without messing up her lipstick. "Well, what colleges are you all going to?"
"I got accepted to NYU! Not sure about my major yet though." Sarah bounced up and down excitedly. "And with the scholarship from my science project, I'll have at least $1000 paid off already."
Martha and Kayla shrank back in fear as Ellie put on a fake smile. Sarah just sat there in confusion. Ellie blew on her manicure. "Well, I guess being the daughter of the famous Linda Williams helps, doesn't it?" She raised an eyebrow at Sarah.
"Excuse me?" Sarah didn't like where this was going. "I EARNED my way. The science project wasn't judged by Hollywood professionals but scientists."
"Yeah yeah blah blah blah." Ellie tipped her water over in anger. "You get everything you ever need because of who you are!"
"That's not true!" Sarah yelled. "What is wrong with you? I don't live with my mom. In fact, she doesn't even care if I'm alive! I always have to sacrifice for my parents and my brother. Any money I get is usually from odd jobs, you know this. What's your deal? Are you just jealous because you forgot to submit your own science project idea to Newbert and he wouldn't let you bribe your way into the completion?"
"Now you've gone too far!" Ellie screamed. The noisy restaurant turned to look at their direction. "Well, at least I'm not so naive to date older men who only claim to love me."
This crossed the line. Sarah stood up suddenly, knocking her chair over. "Jareth has been nothing but a gentleman. He has given me no reason to believe that he means anything other than love for me. And you're one to talk, seeing as you're dating a man in the military who got some girl pregnant while he was away from you!"
She picked up her chair and tried to clean up Ellie's mess as best she could so the busser didn't have to clean up as much. "I'm going to the bathroom." She picked up her clutch and walked away.
When she got back, the trio had left. Not thinking straight, Sarah stomped out of the restaurant looking for them after she paid. She had fully expected Ellie's car to be gone, but surprisingly, it was still there.
Out of nowhere, Sarah felt her back burn from scorching hot liquid. She screamed, and turned around to see Ellie holding an empty coffee cup.
"Oops. Must've slipped. Sorry Williams. Have fun at prom!" Ellie cackled as she beckoned Martha and Kayla to follow her. Both girls gave Sarah a look of apology but were too scared to stand up to Ellie.
Sobbing, Sarah ran. Her eyes were full of angry and sad tears, not caring who was watching her nor stopping when someone yelled to see if she was alright.
She reached the park. The very same park where she read her lines from the Labyrinth book. Not even caring how she got there, she sank to her knees, hugging herself. Looking back, she saw that a shoe was missing. She shivered from the cold and breathed out another sob.
"I hate this. Why can't I just have one fun night? I wish Jareth was here." She muttered to herself. She gasped when she realized the words that were said.
She felt a gust of wind in front of her. "Sarah? Love?" Jareth was dressed in a glittering black vest with his cape flowing behind him majestically, preparing for the ball. Even at twilight, his heartbroken expression could be seen clearly.
He crouched down at her level, but she tried to push him away. Sarah didn't mean to call him and she certainly didn't want him to see her in such a state. "I'm fine, please go. You have a ball to attend."
The Goblin King ignored the first comment. "I'll be fine. I don't need to be there until 10 anyways for introductions. I have a couple of hours. You're hurt." He tried to heal her scrapped foot, but Sarah grabbed his wrist. "No, I, let me try to do it with magic myself."
She tried to concentrate, but too many thoughts and emotions were occupying her mind. Her hand shook as her feeble attempt failed to heal herself.
Jareth took her shuddering hand in his. "It's alright. Allow me." He waved a hand over her foot and the cut instantly healed. He pressed his lips to her forehead. "Love? Tell me what happened."
She didn't speak. "Sarah, if you don't tell me, I will find whoever did this to you and suspend them head first in my new and improved Bog."
Sarah leaned into him and told him what had transpired. "I didn't expect Ellie to do that to me. I guess I should've seen it coming, but I suppose I could only see it in hindsight. I'm too stupid and naive." Fat ugly tears rolled down her face.
"Oh Precious." He kissed her cheek again. "Don't say that. Remember what we talked about last week? About having faith? Faith is what got you through my Labyrinth. Faith is what got us together. Faith is what got you to get accepted."
"Yeah, and faith in friends is what brought me here, crying in tears." She sniffled into his jacket.
Jareth had an idea to cheer her up. "Sarah, can I show you something?"
His soft voice was holding back some excitement. Sarah sat up and looked at him. "What are you thinking, Goblin King?"
He grinned. "Trust me." He put an arm around her waist tightly. Without warning, they flew upwards and into the clouds. Sarah squealed and wrapped her arms around Jareth. "Don't drop me!"
He chuckled. "I shan't, don't worry." He gently set her down on the clouds. Sarah couldn't help but hyperventilate. "How am I here so high so quickly without dying? Why am I not cold? How am I breathing? How am I not falling and why is the cloud so soft! CLOUDS ARE NOT SUPPOSED TO BE LIKE THIS."
Jareth put his finger to her mouth. "Shh. You're using your science brain. Use your magic side, the creative one where anything can make sense. Remember who you're courting, a magical king." He winked at her.
Sarah calmed down a bit before looking around the breathtaking scene. Stars glittered the sky, shining just for her. The moon seemed to smile at her presence. She peaked beyond the cloud she standing in and saw the world shining below her as well.
"Oh Jareth." She breathed. "This is lovely. Thank you." Sarah's heart swelled for two reasons. One, she was just in awe of the majesty of nature. Two, Jareth did this for her. This man really did want to be a slave to her happiness.
"Oh Precious. We haven't even started." He snapped his fingers. A swirl of glitter surrounded them both. When it died down, Sarah gasped at her new dress. It was the same dark blue dress as in her dream, with the golden heels and even sapphire necklace and earrings to accompany it. Her hair was done in a long wave. She looked at Jareth and saw that he wore the blue vest, glittering cape, and had blue sparkles on his tips, matching her dress. He had on a charming smile, and took her hand, bowing before his future queen and kissing her hand. He held his hand out, summoning a crystal and in his palm, a beautiful corsage and boutineer appeared. "For prom. Hogwedge mentioned that it is an Aboveground tradition, yes?"
Sarah rolled her eyes. "Hoggle. And yes." She held her wrist out and Jareth gently put it on. Sarah bit her bottom lip, trying to not poke Jareth with his flower. Luckily, it got pinned on perfectly.
Neither looked away from each other as they danced under the stars. They literally floated in the clouds, enjoying the peace and quiet together. Sarah laid her head on his chest and Jareth pulled her close and molded their bodies together.
The dance ended, and they bowed. Sarah asked him a burning question in her mind. "Have you manipulated my dreams?" She asked. Jareth's smile faded into a look of ignorance. "Dreams, Sarah?"
"Yes. When you were an owl, I had dreams about you. One of them involved you taking me to the clouds, dressed exactly like this. When you left for that month, I dreamt about you more. What does it mean?"
Jareth rested his chin on his hand, thinking. Then, it was as if a lightbulb lit above his head. "Ah. When two lovers who are meant to be through a prophecy, sometimes one of them will dream about what's to come. But, this wasn't exactly like your dreams, was it?"
Sarah shook her head. "In the dream, it had us starting in my room. And then we danced up here, and we went somewhere on a carriage to a beautiful castle where a ball was held. And the entire time, we never spoke to each other."
Jareth stroke his chin thoughtfully. "Describe the castle."
Sarah did the best she could, including the ridiculous amount of steps. Jareth's eyes widened. "That's the castle where the ball is being held tonight. I didn't invite you because if I did, it would be announcing to them that we are courting."
Sarah knew the repercussions of that. It would let everyone know who she really was and could make her a target to Jareth's enemies. Since she was human, they most likely would not take her as seriously, even though she could do some magic. At the same time, she had already accomplished quite a bit in aiding Jareth with his kingdom so maybe it won't be so bad. She had a good head for politics and maybe she could even help with negotiations. Jareth even taught her the names of the different rulers in addition to magic.
"Jareth, I will be the Goblin Queen one day. We know this. We are taking it slow, but that is our end goal. I think I'm ready to go and be by your side. And don't worry, you'll be there by my side too. If anything happens, I'll call." She kissed his cheek. "I said I didn't want to leave your side, and I won't."
Jareth held Sarah at an arm's length away. "You are the most precious thing in the world." He kissed her back. "But first, I think we should go to prom."
Sarah looked at him incredulously. "Why on earth do you want to go to a dance where a bunch of smelly teenagers are grinding on each other when we can go to a real ball right away and meet with real powerful beings?"
Jareth grinned mischievously. "To get back at your friends. The three girls you were going to go with? They've never met me."
He told her of his plan, and she slapped his arm. "Jareth! That is so petty!"
"It would work! Admit it!" He chuckled. "I'm devilishly handsome, as someone once put it." He winked and Sarah shoved him sideways, eliciting more laughter. "You'll never let me live that down, will you?"
"Not a chance." He playfully kissed her ear. "Now let's go. We have two balls to get to tonight."
Kayla and Martha awkwardly sat on the sides, not quite wanting to participate in the dance. Kayla shifted nervously in her seat as Ellie came.
Ellie's light blonde hair was gracefully done in an updo, her black hugging her curves gracefully. Kayla tried to nudge Martha to go before she saw them.
She was too late.
"Why aren't you two dancing?" Ellie laughed. "At least we got rid of Williams. God, she had been annoying me for so long. That little bitch." She fumed in anger for a bit. She looked back at her companions and raised an eye. "Well? Why do you two look so forlorn?"
Neither said anything, but they didn't have to, for Ellie got distracted.
A handsome man leaned lazily against the wall. He was no ordinary man, and he definitely wasn't a high schooler. His hair was a mess, but that seemed to add to his attractiveness. He was spinning four different crystals in his hands as if it was he easiest thing in the world. Then, there was the manner of his dress. He didn't wear a normal tuxedo or even a suit like everyone else. He had on a sparkling blue frock with ruffles down the middle. His heeled boots made him look taller and more elegant. No one could look so mysterious and enchanting at the same time as he.
Being the confident woman that she was, Ellie strutted over to this mysterious man. "Excuse me?"
The man raised an eyebrow, but did not dismiss her. Not caring that he did not vocally respond, she continued. "Who are you?"
The man gave her a smile that sent pleasant shivers down her spine. "Me? I am the Goblin King. Why do you ask?"
Other students turned around to also take a peak at him, just as mesmerized as Ellie was. She giggled at his answer. "How funny. You're a different kind of man." She cooed in a breathy voice, resting her hand on his arm.
He didn't make any moves to push her off. "Different? Milady, you have no clue." He held out a crystal for her to see. "These crystals can give you your dreams."
"You don't say?" Ellie leaned a little closer to him. "Why, what are your dreams, my King?" She ran a finger down Jareth's arm, making her heart beat faster.
To her disappointment, he didn't even turn to look at her. He was focused on a group of teenagers laughing and heading onto the dance floor. Ellie turned, and gasped.
She was sure that she saw Sarah, now dressed in a dress that was sure to be quite pricey. Her nails were matching her dress and she had glittering golden heels. How on earth did she clean up, get a new dress, and got there so quickly? She laughed with Molly, Hannah, Mike, Paige, Ernest, and their dates about something...
Ellie blinked, and Sarah was gone. How did she do that?
"My dreams?" Jareth asked, bringing Ellie out of her thoughts. She shook her head and listened to what he was saying. "Tell you what. We should head to the dance floor don't you think? Then I can answer your question."
A wide grin spread across her face. "Why yes, I think we should, Goblin King." She was thinking about she could have this man on her arm, showing everyone that she was to be taken seriously.
They got to the dance floor. The loud music and bright lights was a tad overwhelming to Jareth's senses, but he adjusted quickly. He felt a tug on his arm and turned to face the blonde that was eager to impress him. Such a pity.
"Your dreams, my king?" She leaned closer to give him a good look of her breasts, but he just stared right into her eyes. She had an uneasy feeling, but was unwilling to let go of such a man.
"My dream is to dance with the most beautiful woman in all the realms." His voice came softly, with burning desire that made Ellie shiver. She looked down and saw that he was now juggling the crystal back and forth from the back of his hand to the front of his hand.
Taking a breath, Ellie took Jareth's hand. "Let's dance."
Jareth tugged his hand back. "Excuse me?"
Ellie blinked, her cheeks coloring with embarrassment. "I thought, you wanted..."
"To dance with you?" Jareth scoffed. "You have a boyfriend. You should be breaking things off with him before you find another man to woo. But even if you weren't, I'm much more interested in someone else."
He gestured towards the middle of the crowed. Ellie gasped. Sarah was there, being admired by her friends who were slowly leaving her. She looked eyes with Jareth and a smile lit up her entire face.
Ellie looked back, understanding etched on her face. "You. You tricked me! You're Sarah's boyfriend!"
He just chuckled, adding more fuel to the fire. "Why, yes I am. And I did not trick you. I answered every question honestly."
"That's not fair!" She stomped her feet as she screamed at him. The onlookers began to glare at her in annoyance.
Jareth was still grinning. "I wonder what your basis for comparison is."
Ellie watched as he waved his hands over the crystals, making them disappear into thin air. "H-how did you do that?!"
Jareth pushed her aside, walking towards Sarah. He paused, and turned his head once more. "Isn't it obvious? It's magic."
He held out his hand towards his intended and kissed it before dancing. Sarah couldn't help but look smug at Ellie's angry face. Now people could see her for what she really was; a person of malice.
"That was petty." She told Jareth. "I can't think of anything more petty than embarrassing a mean girl at prom by your charm and then dancing with me."
Jareth's only reply was a slight head tilt to the left, still smiling. "Don't you notice the song being played?"
Sarah's eyes widened and stared at him incredulously. "How did you get this to play?"
He smirked as he twirled her around. "Magic. How else?"
She leaned into Jareth's chest as he sang As the World Falls Down into her ear. "You know." He started. "I wrote this song specifically for you..."
"Did you now?" Sarah swiped a stray strand of hair away from his eyes. "You wrote a love song to me when I was a child?"
Jareth cringed at her mentioning the age difference again. "Well, yes. Doesn't it fit us though? We were strangers, and both sad. I wrote it when you were having a particularly rough time and I wanted you to know that I'd be there for you, even when the world fell. Even if you would never love me back."
The locked eyes, some strange feeling welling up in their chests. Sarah let go of his hands and placed her palms on his chest. "I love you, Jareth. And you mean everything to me."
She tangled her fingers in his hair as their lips touched. He wrapped his arms around her, pulling her close and breathing in her scent, memorizing the way her lips felt on his. He traced a finger down her neck and to her shoulders, sending a shiver down both their spines.
Jareth pulled away, much to Sarah's relief and disappointment. It was getting easier to control herself when he touched her, but she was afraid that she would fail one of these days.
Her king bowed and kissed her fingers. "What do you say we go to a real ball, hmm?" He smiled sweetly at her before putting his arms around her again.
Sarah looked at him eagerly. "Absolutely. We should get there before we're late. How are we getting there anyways?" She pushed the doors open and breathed in the fresh air.
Jareth gave his signature smug and seducing smile. "Why don't you take a guess?"
Sarah squealed as the small sleigh came in view. Just like in her dreams. Jareth held out his hand and led his lady to sit beside him.
Sarah leaned her head against his shoulder. Like in her dream, she brought up his hand and kissed his fingers after taking his gloves off. A deep, pleasurable sound came from Jareth's chest. He tipped her chin up to claim her mouth in his. He ran his tongue on the roof of her mouth, eliciting a small moan from his intended.
Sarah nibbled on his lip to get back at him. Jareth released her lips and placed his lips on her shoulder, licking and kissing it, his hands running along her bare skin. He let go, and brought her leg up to rest beside his waist, pushing part of the skirt away. It was convenient to have a slit that high on her after all.
Sarah could feel that he was slowly losing control. She felt warm with want and continued kissing him for a bit longer. When he was about to go further, she pulled away and rested her forehead on his. "Not yet. Not here."
Jareth let out a disappointed and apologetic sigh. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to get so carried away. You're just so beautiful." He kissed her nose. "I will have to change your dress though."
Sarah raised an eyebrow. "Why? This is a beautiful dress. Plus you seem to like it." She winked at him and delighted at the blush that tainted his cheeks.
Jareth shrugged. "Well, this dress was appropriate for Above. It's modern style, and as I have told you, the style Underground is more old fashioned. Plus, I don't want anyone else to pay THAT much attention to you." He snapped his fingers once more, and Sarah's dress changed again.
The skirt expanded to a ballroom dress, the slit disappearing. The long sleeves shrank back to frame her shoulders only. Tiny crystals lined the front of her bodice, but the color remained the same. "Much better for this ball." Jareth smiled.
They arrived at the castle. "Jareth, where are we? Are we Underground?" Sarah stepped out and gave her dress a twirl. "And this is lovely. Thank you." She tiptoed up to kiss his cheek.
"You're welcome, Precious." He held out his arm for her to hold. "We're actually Above. There's a castle that is used for balls such as this one, hidden in the clouds."
Sarah's head spun a bit, trying to understand how it could exist so high up but not be detected by humans. She also felt unpleasant butterflies in her stomach. "Jareth, I'm nervous." She whispered to him. "What if I mess up and ruin the negotiations?"
Jareth pursed his lips together. "You won't mess up. If they don't listen to you, it's on them, not you. You know the etiquette. Do not dance until the elves dance. We won't be eating dinner, so there's nothing else to it. Do not speak to anyone until after you dance with me so they'll know who you're with. Don't be nervous."
But Sarah was worried. She had worked so hard to provide for her future subjects and there was no other way to get supplies but from these people. But even as she worried, she felt safe at the arms of her love. Not for the first time, she was grateful to take that chance with him.
A young man ushered them in to the castle. They stood in a small room, waiting to be sent down after being introduced. It would be the first time that the other monarchs would know that Jareth and Sarah were courting.
"Introductions?" The young man asked. Jareth reached in his coat pocket and brought out a piece of paper with their names on it. Sarah tapped his arm, getting his attention. "How am I being introduced?"
Jareth looked forward and gave her hand a comforting pat. "You'll see."
A young elf stood on the side, holding the card that Jareth had given her. "Introducing His Majesty, King Jareth of Goblins, Keeper of the Realms and Princess Sarah Williams, Champion of the Labyrinth and King Jareth's Lady."
The room seemed to hold their breaths as Sarah descended with Jareth. Don't blink, don't show emotions, Sarah told herself. It was of the utmost importance to not show fear, especially as the youngest person there and the only human.
They all eyed her with fascination, most likely from surprise that she solved the Labyrinth and that Jareth was actually courting someone after being a bachelor for so long. And a human, no less. Sarah's unease grew, and she still wasn't sure why she was feeling that way. Like something evil was going to happen. This was more than just nerves.
They reached the bottom. When Jareth lead her to their spot, the orchestra started to play music, a cue for them to start dancing. Jareth raised an eyebrow at Sarah's unease. "Sarah? Something wrong?"
She shivered. "Something's off. I don't know what though. Can't you feel it?"
Jareth shook his head. "No, I don't. I think you're just nervous. Just look at me. I'm here by your side." He kissed her cheek, making everyone else raise eyebrows. It was not common to display such affection in public unless the couple was married. But, when it came to Jareth, he always made sure everyone knew when something was his.
They broke away from each other, dancing with other people. Sarah came in contact with a rather tall man. He was a giant who shrank himself in order to accommodate the party. He was strong, with big ears and large limbs. His beard was so long that it reached his belt and he wore a long, red tunic with a crown of gold on his head.
"Princess Sarah." He bowed. "I am King Charles of the Giants." He twirled the human girl around before catching her in his arms. "You are quite beautiful. I can see what the King of Goblins has taken a fancy with you."
Sarah bowed her head politely. "I'm humbled, Your Majesty. But, he could've had his choice of any woman. My beauty is nothing in comparison to them. We have chosen each other out of devotion, and we match quite well in wit and other areas of our personalities." She lifted her arm up and braced her feet as he dipped her down low.
"It is good to see him back again. You must be someone special to gather his attention. And a human no less! For him to choose a human, I wonder what's gotten into him."
Sarah bit her lip. She wasn't liking where this was going. She and Jareth were not together from some prophecy, but because they chose to. She changed the topic. "King Charles, we have a predicament. We would like some help in rebuilding our kingdom."
"Oh? You're making an arrangement on behalf of the king now, aren't you little human? What do you propose?" He twirled her to the side. Sarah regained her balance quicker than he had expected her to. She ignored his first comment. "We need some building materials. In exchange, the King and I offer the goose that lays golden eggs."
"You're offering it back to us?" He couldn't believe it. Jack was a human that had stolen their goose long ago and kept it for himself Above. The giants had given up on finding it centuries ago, and they had heard that the Goblin King had kept it since his goblins had found it. They did not want to argue with Jareth, for they still had a supply of gold. However, their supply was waning.
"Yes." Sarah told him. "Give us materials to build and some food for the kingdom, and you'll get your goose back."
"Done!" Charles laughed in victory. The food and building materials were easy for him to provide, considering how large the land of the giants was compared to other kingdoms.
"Now, tell me how you and King Jareth came to be together. I'm sure you bewitched him somehow, so he'd marry a human. That must be quite a story."
Sarah gave him a sweet smile, but her blood turned to ice all the same. Jareth had warned her of sharing details of heir courtship to anyone, for fear that they'd find a weak point in his magic. She didn't like how Charles was so pushy.
"It was. However, that is private to the two of us. I suppose you wouldn't want me to ask about your disappearance to your predecessor's funeral, wouldn't you?" Implying that Charles had something to do with the possible death of his father, the former Giant King who died mysteriously.
Charles's wicked smile turned into a dangerous look. His eyes seemed to burn Sarah's skin, but she did not shrink back in fear. Dealing with Jareth taught her much about standing her own ground.
"You shouldn't speak about things you don't know about, human. Don't play games that are too dangerous for you. To underestimate me or anyone else in this room may cost you."
Sarah spun to his side, eyes never leaving his face. Also from Jareth, she learned how to look at someone with a commanding presence. "My King, I am courting a fey King who bested the Labyrinth, the most powerful and difficult game ever created. A game that I have beaten. So, it is YOU who should be wary of the 'little human,' as you have called me."
Charles said nothing, but continued his staring contest with Sarah. Not far away, Jareth was having his own battle with a dancer. He was quite put off by the mask that she wore, since she was the only one to do so in the entire room. It was also a strange mask, covering most of her face, including her eyes. She had on a brilliant lavender dress that showed off her lovely body. It was inappropriately backless, he noticed when he put his arm around her, glad for the barrier that his gloves gave him. Her hair was raven black, like his Sarah's. A light pink paint was used to color her lips. Unease grew even more as he noticed that she had on a glamour spell and a spell to make someone be intrigued with her. Lucky for him, no one was better at illusions that the King of Goblins so he knew how to protect himself.
"My lady." Jareth bowed to her. "Might I ask why you are wearing a mask to cover what I'm sure is a beautiful face?" He hoped that by flirting with her, she'd think that he fell for her spell.
She let out a small laugh. "My Lord, it is so no man will be that drawn to me, as you are." She brushed her lips against Jareth's hands.
He smiled cooly, putting on his best flirtatious smile while inwardly grinding his teeth. Something felt familiar about this woman, and he didn't like it.
Not one bit.
She tried to rest her hands on his chest, but Jareth pushed her away. "I apologize, my lady. I am currently courting someone. You seem familiar, have we met?"
She tilted her head to the side. Man, Jareth was getting annoyed at not seeing her facial expressions. "I don't believe you know who I am. And Princess Sarah? Pray tell, what could make a human earn the title of 'princess' without being born a royal?Hmm?"
Jareth didn't take his eyes off the woman as he took her back in his arms, keeping a polite distance from her. "Princess Sarah has done much. To defeat my Labyrinth takes courage, a heart of gold, stamina, and so much more. She has more than proven herself. By aiding me in restoring the kingdom, she has solidified her right to be a hero. She has more than enough reason to be called a princess." He spoke with such pride, thinking of his Sarah. There was no other woman that he'd rather have than someone who was his equal (or would soon be) in nearly every way.
"Are you sure you aren't delusional, my king? You are quite powerful and could have the utmost protection for your kingdom if you chose a fey for a mate instead of a mere human." She traced a finger down his neck before he could stop her, speaking in a breathy voice.
Jareth just continued to glare. "There is no other person better by my side than my Sarah. She is what the kingdom needs, courageous and kind. She will not remain human forever and will seek immortality to rule alongside me for as long as we live."
The mystery woman clicked her tongue. "My my. You have such faith in her. I hope that it won't cost you. A human on the throne! She would be useful for heirs, since humans are so fertile. Maybe you could marry a fey after that."
Jareth did the unspeakable. He pushed his dance partner away. To make such a move at such an important event was against diplomacy. "Who are you? I demand that you tell me!"
She just smiled, unnerving Jareth. Cackling, the woman raised one hand over her head and a cloud of smoke enveloped her before she disappeared. A voice echoed in his ear, saying "Goblin king. We shall meet again and soon."
He didn't like it. Not at all. Before he could turn around, he felt a small tap on his shoulder. Getting ready to growl and lose his temper at whoever it was, his face softened when he saw Sarah. She shrank back a little, not expecting his angry face. They both found that since they had fallen in love, it was nearly impossible to hide their feelings from each other, and they would keep it that way.
She curtsied as he bowed, taking her hand to dance again. It didn't matter how many times they danced together, he'd never grow tired of it. He opened his mouth to ask her about her conversation with the giant and to tell her about the mystery woman, but she put her finger to his lips.
"I'm drained, talking negotiations with King Charles. It went well and I promised him the goose that lays the golden eggs." Jareth nodded in agreement. "Good. We don't need gold anyways."
Sarah rested her head on his chest. "Let's just enjoy this dance together. You and me. We can talk about other things later." Standing on her toes, she pressed her lips against Jareth's cheek. He smiled, his heart feeling full with this beautiful woman in his arms. He rubbed her nose with his and pulled her closer to his body, one arm around her waist and the other holding her hand.
No matter how difficult that day was, Jareth and Sarah would always remember how they went through it together. To have someone you love by your side is the greatest thing you can have in life.
"Ahh! Jareth you are going to rip my dress!" Sarah squealed in delight as he cuddled her in his bed, still in their fineries from the ball.
Jareth just responded with a feral smile and another kiss on her cheek. Sarah flipped over to face him, leaning against his ear to moan his name before biting his neck.
The goblin king groaned deeply. "Sarah, if you continue this, it won't be easy for me to control myself."
They had not yet been intimate with one another. For both their sakes, they decided to not until they were engaged. If they lost each other or changed their mind afterwards, both would be devastated beyond belief.
Sarah hesitated before nibbling his collar bone again, making him grip her hips tighter. Pulling back, she ran her fingers across Jareth's messy mane. Placing her palms on his cheeks, she kissed his lips sweetly. "Jareth, I love you more than you know. I want to be with you forever."
Jareth put his finger to her lips before she kissed him again. A haunting, hopeful look was in his eyes. It was a fine line between heartbreak and pure bliss. "Sarah, do you mean that? Do you really mean those words?"
The human girl wrapped her arms around her fey king. "I have never been more sure of anything. I've been sure for a while, but tonight, I am confident about it all the way. I want you, my king. You have done so much to give me confidence, to give me faith in myself, even without knowing if I'd stay by your side or leave. I said I won't leave your side. That wasn't just for tonight, but for always."
Jareth just stared at this beautiful girl before him with such admiration. No, not a girl, a woman. Without another word, he gently pushed off the bed, making Sarah confused. He bent down on one knee and watched as Sarah's confused face turned into one of surprise and happiness. Conjuring a crystal, he opened it like a ring box to reveal a lovely sapphire ring. Two sapphires were surrounded by diamonds in an infinity symbol with green emeralds dotting around. Sarah gasped as he took her left hand and kissed it.
"Sarah Anne Williams. You came to me when I had given up on love and through your kindness and pureness, you have shown me that I was worthy of love. I didn't think I could ever find someone who would love me as much as you, and someone I myself could love as much as you. You are my world, and I don't want to be away from your side. You drive me crazy. You hold me accountable, and you make me smile every single day of my life since you came in it.
"I ask you to be my wife and queen. This was something I had never planned to ask any woman prior to knowing you, and I ask this question thoughtfully and carefully. I vow to be by your side and rule as equals in righteousness. I vow to love you every single day for the rest of eternity and to be faithful to you. Sarah, will you marry me?"
She sobbed and thrust her left hand out. "Yes! Yes Jareth!" She gasped in delight as he slipped the beautiful ring on her finger. Bending down, she joined him on the floor and kissed him profusely.
They pulled away from the kiss and rested their foreheads on each other, basking in their happiness. Sarah slipped his sparkling blue jacket off, giving herself more access to his skin. Jareth made an unsure face, to which she said, "Jareth. I'm ready. I have loved you for so long and even if we mess up, I'll be glad I did it with you."
Jareth tucked a strand of hair behind his beloved's ear. "Are you sure, Sarah? You don't have to rush into this." Though he also did not have experience, he was much more confident than she. Beautiful women had gone in and out of his life, but they left because he rejected them. As for Sarah, she was the one to be rejected.
His fiancée nodded. "Yes. I am more than ready to do it with you. Just, go slow and be gentle." She kissed his lips slowly.
Something sparked inside of the goblin king. He pulled her into his lap and unlaced her corset while she pulled his shirt off. She shivered as he exposed her breasts.
Jareth made eye contact with her and could see that she was concerned about her body. He kissed her hair, trying to comfort her before looking at her again. He pulled away, getting a view of her beautiful body. "Sarah. You are so beautiful. I feel so privileged to see you this way. And don't you worry, I plan to take all night with you, my love."
The way he whispered his awe was so reverent, as if she was a goddess. Sarah relaxed a bit before slipping her fingers under his shirt. Her fiancé groaned in delight before picking her up and setting her on his bed.
And there they stayed, whispering sweet nothings and making love until they were too exhausted. Laying in each other's arms, Sarah and Jareth couldn't think of a better way to be intimate with someone for the first time.