Chapter 11

"Your mother?" Sarah asked in shocked surprise.

Lady Regna laughed mockingly at her and said, "Why so surprised my dear? Did you think the fae sprang fully grown from the earth?"

Sarah blushed in embarrassment and lowered her eyes. "No of course not." Valiantly she gathered her composure and looked up at the lady saying, "It's a pleasure to meet you."

"The pleasure is all mine." Her words were pleasant enough, but they fell from her mouth in an icy tone. Turning to Jareth now, Lady Regna said, "I took the liberty of ordering a feast prepared for tonight. We must welcome your charming guest properly."

Inclining his head slightly, Jareth replied, "Of course madam. I will escort Sarah to her rooms so she can freshen up, and then we will join you."

"Oh no need for that Jareth! Cherry told me that you had assigned a maid for her already and she's outside ready to see to her new mistress' needs." Turning to Sarah she said, "You may go dear. I need to speak to my son."

Having been essentially dismissed, Sarah looked at Jareth, who merely gave her a nod and a small smile. She didn't really want to leave his side, but there was something about the lady that told Sarah it would be unwise to defy her.

After Sarah had left the room, Jareth allowed his displeasure to show openly on his face. "Well mother, it's nice to see you barging into my life once again."

The fake smile had left her face, and she turned a sneer to her son. "And I see that you've found yourself a mortal whore to replace Valletta."

Rage darkened the color of Jareth's eyes until they were a shade darker than his mother's, almost completely black. In a deadly quiet voice he said, "Never speak like that about Sarah again. Mother or not, you will be regret it."

She laughed mirthlessly at that. "What will you do Jareth? Dump me into the Bog of Eternal Stench?" The laugh died in her throat as she hissed evilly at him, "I'm not one of your simple minded goblins. Your threats mean nothing to me."

His eyes returned to normal as he said almost pleasantly, "That wasn't a threat mother; merely a promise." Striding to the door he said casually over his shoulder, "You will treat Sarah respectfully while you're here. If I hear otherwise, the least of your worries will be the bog." Giving her a mocking bow at the door he said with false gallantry, "Until dinner madam." Then with a flourish of his cloak he was gone.

Lady Regna longed to throw something at the door. How dare he treat me thus? Of all her offspring, Jareth had turned out to be her greatest disappointment. Once he had been the perfect son, heartless, cruel, and very ambitious. He had ruled over the labyrinth and the Goblin City with an iron fist. He was the spitting image of his mother and she waited eagerly for the day when he would rule over the entire Underground as the high king. Then all her hopes had been dashed. Jareth's fiancé, the Princess Valletta, had left him, saying that she couldn't be with anyone so horrible anymore. She had given him a double blow when she fled to the arms of his brother.

For a while Regna had thought it was all for the best. It had been mostly her doing that had separated the couple, after she had seen what and influence the princess had on him. The princess had been slowly softening her son, and he seemed to be genuinely in love with her. Regna knew that was a very dangerous thing; love made you weak and soft. And because of that, when the princess had left him, Jareth had been devastated. He gave up all his schemes and plans and lost all his ambition to rule as the high king. Instead he turned to his goblins and his duty to the labyrinth.

Her last hope had been that he would become bored with his life here and would go back to his old ways. But he had remained stubborn, serving as the dedicated Goblin King for almost a century. Then, a few years ago, disturbing rumors had reached Regna's ears. A young mortal girl had been the first to run the labyrinth and most surprising of all had actually beat it. That alone would have been enough to cause Regna to be alarmed, but her spies also told her that Jareth seemed to be extremely taken with the girl. There had been rumors of a spur of the moment ball and that Jareth had actually courted the young girl. She had come as quickly as she could, but the mortal was gone by then and Jareth had sunk into a fit of depression after being rejected again.

Recently she had heard that the mortal had been seen again Underground. She had come to see Jareth with the wench for herself and she had been furious to see her son in this condition.

He's become a fool, she thought repulsed, and a love sick weakling. He no longer deserves to even be the Goblin King. Seeing him with his mortal concubine had made her course of action clear. First I will get rid of the mortal. He will be broken with out her. Then I will deal with him, once and for all.


When Sarah had left Jareth's chambers, she had run into another small goblin. This one seemed to be a lot younger than the ones she had met previously, having a less wrinkled and withered exterior. Curtsying low to Sarah she had said cheerfully, "Good evening milady! My name is Sweet Pea and I'm to be your personal maid."

She had returned the goblins greeting with, "Pleased to meet you Sweet Pea."

Sweeping her arm out to the side, Sweet Pea said politely, "Would you like me to show you to your rooms, milady?"

Sarah nodded, adding, "Yes that would be great Sweet Pea, but please, call me Sarah." Following behind the petite goblin, they were soon standing in front of a dark mahogany door. The goblin opened the door for her and Sarah gasped in pleasure at what she found inside.

It was truly a set of rooms fit for a princess. The first was a large and open sitting room, done in lovely shades of purple and green. There was a whole wall of windows and a glass door, with lacy curtains pulled to the side that let out onto a large balcony. Across from that wall there was a beautiful marble fireplace, which didn't have a fire going in the summer time, but someone had arranged bunches of orange, yellow, and red roses inside to give the appearance of a fire. Before the fireplace were two very comfortable looking chairs and a lounge placed between them. There were also some book cases placed in the room, and as she glanced quickly at some of the titles, she noticed several of her personal favorites on the shelves.

Going on through to the bedroom, Sarah couldn't help but feel like a giddy school girl. Standing in the middle of the room was the largest bed Sarah had ever seen. It could have easily accommodated Ludo and the rest of her friends, with room for Sarah as well. It had tall posts at all four corners, with heavy velvet curtains twined around them. There was a mural painted on the canopy hanging over the bed, an idyllic scene of a meadow, complete with fairy creatures and unicorns. Set next to another set of glass doors leading to the balcony sat a table and two chairs. There was a large vanity which sat in front of a giant mirror and it was filled to capacity with brushes and combs, bottles of lotions, vials of scents, and everything else Sarah could ever possibly desire. On either side of the vanity were doors and she wandered over to investigate. One led to a cavernous bathroom, with modern plumbing Sarah was pleased to note. She left the bathroom alone for a moment, curious to see where the other door led. Opening it, she was met with every girl's fantasy.

The room was filled to near bursting with beautiful clothing. All kinds of gorgeous dresses, chemises, silk stockings, nightgowns, petticoats, and things Sarah didn't even have a name for. Pulling one down, it looked to be the perfect size for her. Shaking her head in wonder, she almost squeaked in surprise when Sweet Pea said from behind her, "Aren't they lovely Miss Sarah? His Majesty had them all made up for you special."

Sarah could only nod in agreement. The cheery little goblin wandered around the room, pulling down dresses for Sarah's inspection, explaining to her about the different kinds. Riding attire, day attire, formal diner wear, informal diner wear, court functions, ball gowns; Sarah couldn't believe that each dress had its own specific purpose.

"Oh," Sweet Pea said, "I forgot to show you the jewels!" Crossing over to a large dresser that Sarah had assumed held undergarments, the goblin began to open up compartments and take out large flat jewelry boxes. Sarah joined her and opened one of the boxes, staring in shock at what lay within. Nestled inside of the velvet was the largest diamond she had ever seen. It was set in silver, with small emeralds surrounding it, while a pair of matching earrings lay next to it. They all sparkled in the light, dazzling her eyes, and she reached out to touch the delicate looking silver chain.

"This is for me?"

Sweet Pea nodded at her and replied, "This was only what could be made up with such short notice. I know it's not much, but there will be much better ones ready in a few days and your coronation jewels will look stunning!"

Better ones? Is she crazy! That is the most gorgeous piece of jewelry I've ever seen! She kept those thoughts to herself however, and simply said, "This is already too much."

"Nothing is too much for you my dear," whirling around, she spied Jareth leaning against the door. He wore a contented smile on his face, while his eyes gleamed with mischief. "Does the room suit you?"

She gave him a dazzling smile and said, "Of course Jareth. Everything is absolutely wonderful!" Teasingly she added, "If I didn't know better, I would say you're trying to bribe me."

His grin widened, "Perish the thought my dear. I've simply given you what I would give my queen. As I said, I want you to be aware of what I'm offering." Striding to her he lifted her hand to his lips, kissing it tenderly.

Every time he did that, she wanted to melt into a puddle at his feet. They had an audience though, so she tried her best to maintain her composure. Jareth seemed to notice the little goblin at the same time, and released her hand, stepping back slightly. "Dinner will be served soon, you should get ready." With that he strode from her sight, only to pace her sitting room waiting for her to be finished.

Sarah looked at Sweet Pea confused, "Aren't I already dressed?"

Sweet Pea's eyes widened in shock. "Oh no Miss Sarah! You couldn't wear such a simple dress to a court dinner! Especially one being held in your honor!"

She looked down at her dress and couldn't see what was wrong with it. It was already much fancier than anything she had previously worn. But it's not like I have any experience with a court dinner. Or court at all. "Very well Sweet Pea, I'll defer to your judgment."

Quickly the little goblin selected a dress for Sarah, gathering up all the undergarments and such that she would need, including a sapphire necklace just as beautiful as the diamond one and then shooed Sarah out the door ahead of her. Helping her out of the teal dress, the goblin replaced her chemise with another one, almost totally sheer and trimmed with lace. Settling several petticoats over her head, she tied them off and then laced up a corset. Sarah had heard horror stories about corsets, from girls that had actually tried them and also from the old time romances she loved to read. But it wasn't as horrible as she had been led to believe. It didn't hurt and it certainly didn't leave her gasping for air, instead it just made her stand a little straighter and pushed her breasts up slightly. She couldn't have known that Sweet Pea had barely tightened the garment at all and if she had done it as fashion dictated, Sarah would have probably fainted from lack of air.

After getting on everything but the dress itself, Sweet Pea led her over to the vanity and sat her down. She brushed her hair out quickly and then braided it in a coronet around her head. Then she held out a tray of perfume for Sarah to choose from and she picked a light floral scent that reminded her of the roses Jareth had given her a few days ago. Everything else complete, Sweet Pea helped Sarah into the dress. It was a stunning creation of blue velvet. It hugged her chest tightly, showing off her curves before fanning out gracefully. The sleeves cut across her chest, leaving her shoulders bare, and for a moment she was self conscious at the amount of skin she was showing.

"No wonder His Majesty is so taken with you Miss Sarah! You're lovelier than an angel." Looking at herself in the mirror, she wasn't sure if she would compare herself to a heavenly being, but she had to admit she looked very nice. I wonder what Jareth will think…

"He'll think that maybe going to dinner isn't such a great idea," said a low voice behind her. Growing tired of waiting, Jareth had returned to the bedchamber to see the glorious vision in front of him. He knew he should chide her for allowing her barriers slip; picking up that thought had been almost too easy for him. But the sight of her was clouding his judgment and he was almost certain that his eyes were filling with desire. He knew that he should try to suppress it with Sweet Pea in the room, but he couldn't find the will to. Instead he said quietly to the goblin hovering next to Sarah, "Leave us."

Sweet Pea scampered quickly from the room, and Sarah couldn't help but laugh at his tone. "So I meet with your approval then?" Giving a little turn for him, she enjoyed how the skirt flared out. Returning her gaze to Jareth, she was surprised to see him standing directly in front of her.

He tipped her head up with his hand and looked into her glowing eyes. "You are the most beautiful creature I have ever seen." Slowly he brought their mouths together for a gentle kiss. Reluctantly he pulled back and sighed. "However, tonight I must not be greedy. I shall have to share you with the court." Tucking her hand in his arm he led them out of the room and down towards the grand dining hall.

Pausing a moment before the door, he looked at Sarah, noticing her pale cheeks, and the way she trembled slightly. Her feelings of doubt and anxiety were crazy her thoughts to whirl in chaotic patterns. Squeezing her hand he gave her a piercing look when she caught his eye. "You'll be fine my dear. Just remember what I said about keeping your mind closed when Underground. There are those that could use it against you." With that he waved his hand lazily and the double doors to the dining hall swung open to reveal the mass of beings within.

Was that supposed to reassure me? Sarah stood next to Jareth clutching his arm tightly. She did her best to reinforce her mental shields while showing a brave front however, keeping her eyes up and resisting the urge to flee the sea of faces staring at her. When the doors had opened, they had all stood showing respect for their king. The herald next to the door announced in a loud clear voice, "His Royal Highness, King Jareth, Ruler of the Labyrinth, and Lady Sarah Williams." As he entered the room with Sarah, they continued to stand quietly, all bowing as the couple made their way down the aisle.

The long walk to the head table gave Sarah a chance to stare at the people around her. All the ones present seemed to be human, or at least had human features, but they all possessed the same ethereal beauty and unmistakable magical aura that Jareth had. None were a match for the one she walked with though, except maybe for the one standing at the head table isolated from the rest, dressed in all black and radiating iciness. Lady Regna watched the couple stroll towards her and avidly watched how the mortal was received by the court.

Most looked intrigued and approving of the girl that had managed to win their kings regard and Lady Regna wanted to sneer at them in disgust. There were others in the crowd however that looked just as displeased with the course of events as the lady herself and she made note of them, hoping they could prove to be allies.

When the couple had reached the table, Jareth took his place in the center, while indicating Sarah to take the chair to his right. They both sat at the same time, which was the signal for the rest of the assembly to resume their places. Goblins burst through the kitchen doors bearing trays and platters to begin serving the feast.

Lady Regna turned a falsely cheerful smile to Sarah and said, "How wonderful you look this evening my dear."

"Thank you my lady," Sarah replied. "You also look very beautiful." While Jareth's mother had meant her comment snidely, Sarah was genuinely in awe of the older fae's beauty. She had a proud and regal look to her, not unlike her son, and the stark and somber black gown merely enhanced her good looks.

Jareth watched the two women warily. He knew Sarah had no idea what court was like, all the back stabbing and the steel buried in the honeyed words. His mother was the master of court politics, and Sarah was as innocent as a babe in the woods. He was silently kicking himself for not having prepared her for it and knew that he would have to rectify his over sight at the earliest opportunity. Until then, he just had to keep a close eye on his mother. I won't let her ruin Sarah. I lost Valletta because of her poisonous influence, I won't lose Sarah too!

The feast went on for hours and the strain began to show on Sarah. In between courses, pairs and small groups of Jareth's courtiers had come up to the main table, first bowing to the royal family and then to Sarah. Some left after that, but others stayed for a moment talking to Sarah and their King. Sarah met so many of them she couldn't even remember their names.

In spite of that, Jareth was impressed with her poise and composure. She had smiled and chatted easily and graciously with all of the guests. As the formal part of the evening finally wound to a close, he leaned over to her and said, "You're looking tired my dear. Shall I escort you up to your rooms?"

With a grateful nod she replied, "Yes, that would be wonderful! I never knew dinner could last for hours!"

With a soft chuckle Jareth stood and pulled Sarah's chair out for her. He nodded politely to his mother and said, "Sarah and I shall be retiring mother. Have a pleasant evening."

The Lady held up a hand and said, "After you escort your, ah lady, to her rooms, I would like to have another word with you. I shall be waiting in your study." Sarah felt Jareth stiffen and wondered what he was upset about.

"Mother I think any further discussions could wait until morning, don't you?" He didn't like how his mother had hesitated over the word lady and he was remembering the brief discussion they had earlier.

"Not this one," the lady spoke quietly, but she said it in a no nonsense tone. "It's about your brother visiting and the High King's will."

Sarah didn't know what they were talking about, but at the mention of a brother she gasped. I didn't know he had a brother!

Lady Regna hid her smirk well as she addressed Sarah, "There's many things my son has failed to tell you."

Shooting his mother a fierce look, Jareth said, "I'll join you in the study shortly mother. Until then." With a perfunctory bow, Jareth escorted a slightly peeved Sarah from the room. They walked in silence for a time before Jareth said in a not quite accusatory tone, "You've let your barriers slip again. You mustn't do so while Underground and especially around my mother!"

She wanted to pout and stomp her feet, but decided acting like a child would not help her cause. "Well I'm sorry to disappoint you! It's a little difficult to think straight when I get unexpected news. Just what else are you hiding from me?"

Coming to Sarah's door he stopped and looked into her eyes, seeing the anger and hurt. "I'm not hiding anything Sarah. I just haven't told you everything."

Now she did stomp her foot. "Damn it Jareth, it's the same thing!" All the trust they had built in the last few days was crumbling beneath them. How can I love someone that can't even open up to me? Things had been going so well and yet it only took a tiny seed of doubt to undo it all.

Jareth cursed his mother for planting those seeds in Sarah's mind. He wanted to stay and explain everything to her, but it would be better to listen to what his mother had to say and then hopefully send her packing. "My dear, I promise I will tell you everything you ever wanted to know," he paused and smiled ruefully, "And some things you didn't, about me. But that must wait until tomorrow."

Disappointment, exasperation, anger, sadness, and regret were warring for supremacy in her mind. Why is nothing ever easy! Sighing, she merely nodded. "Until tomorrow then." With out saying another word, she entered her room and gently closed the door.