A/N: WARNING! May contain Fae Smut- if you do not like do not read. If you like though you are clearly an enlightened person, enjoy.
As usual I own nothing.
The Ball
'But you put on quite a show, really had me going but now its time to go, curtains finally closing. That was quite a show, very entertaining, but its over now, go on and take a bow.'- Take a Bow, Rihanna.
Sarah happily spent the afternoon laughing at Anna's stories of Jareth, the Goblin King taking them all in good humour though clearly only because of who the person telling them was. Sarah would have known they were twins even if she had never been told the fact, the two so similar in their mannerisms and humour though Anna had a far softer quality than her brother. Despite the distraction of the conversation, Sarah's curiosity was still peaked and at the next lull she dared her question.
"Tell me to keep my nose out if it's none of my business but how…" she said, trailing off and gesturing to Anna's chair.
"Its no secret," said Anna with a smile, "When my Mother gave birth to me it was complicated, they did not realise there were two of us and before they could help I was delivered awkwardly. My nerves were damaged to the extent that I can feel and move my legs but they cannot bear my weight enough to allow me to walk, of course by the time anyone realised anything was wrong it was too late and magic, even that of my Father, cannot heal everything. The gods smiled on me though, they gave me a strong brother to carry me around everywhere and generally fuss me to death."
Jareth took her hand, "One day I'm going to see you walk," he said fondly, "And kick Isis in the teeth."
"You are a wicked hearted creature," said Anna, swatting him, "Why only allow me to kick her in the teeth?"
Sarah laughed, "You like her as much as he does then?"
"Oh I love the dear old dragon," said Ann, her voice a feminine replica of her brother's when laced with sarcasm, "She shall not take too kindly to you Sarah I'm afraid, she is dear friends with Old Mosquito."
"Mosquito?"
"Anna's pet name for Mizumi," said Jareth.
"Pet name, ha! Wicked old witch," said Anna, "You do not know how relieved I was when this one swan dived himself off the balcony besotted with thoughts of you and told me he was calling off his engagement to that viper."
Sarah raised an eyebrow, "Swan dived Jareth?"
Jareth tugged gently on his sister's hair, "My beloved twin exaggerates."
"Indeed," said Anna, "Mind yourself Jack, I know where you keep all your diaries back at the castle and I am quite willing to tell Sarah exactly where to find them."
"Why am I suddenly regretting introducing the two of you?" he said.
"Of course you aren't," said Anna, "Who else do you have to plan your wedding, which I hope will be soon?"
"The summer," said Sarah happily as Jareth took her hand across the table, "Though we've yet to set anything in stone."
Anna looked at her appraisingly, "You will make a beautiful summer bride," she said, "And the gardens at the castle always look lovely in July. Oh I can't believe this is finally happening, my Jack getting married."
Jareth laughed, "You make it sound like I was content to be a determined old bachelor all my life."
"Were you not?" said Anna, "I quite honestly recall you saying not two days after Sarah defeated the Labyrinth that you would ever live unmarried and unloved unless you were reunited. When Titania told me just who you were with Above I was so hopeful that one day, if all went well, you would come to me with this news. I jest at my brother's expense Sarah but you…well I have hoped for you for so long. My Jack is smiling, a rare sight even to me I tell you, and I am brought a new companion who I hope I can become as close a sister too, I do so hate being the only girl in a family of egotistical boys."
"You get spoiled rotten and you love it," said Jareth.
"Hmm, and I get left with Isis," said Anna, "Lucky, lucky me!"
"I don't want to talk out of turn," said Sarah, "But why not live with Jareth?"
Jareth smiled sadly at his sister, brushing a lock of her golden hair back behind her ear but it was Anna that spoke.
"My Father refuses to release Nana from service and there would be no one else to help me," she said, "I do not need attention all the time but when my magic grows tired its nice to have someone near. I could never expect Jareth to take on the extra responsibility and with all the changes that would need to be made to the castle to accommodate me it would be impossible. I moan but Isis says little to me if I keep out of her way and I have friends here, I am not at all isolated. I am happy here and perhaps now Jareth has taken the leap of coming home, he plans to be a stranger to this isle no longer."
"Lets just see how tonight goes first," said Jareth, "They may well be chasing me back to the ship with torches and pitchforks before the evening is out."
Anna rolled her eyes, "You're nothing if not dramatic are you darling?" she said, "Sarah, I pity you, six whole weeks!"
Sarah laughed, "It was an experience," she said as a knock came at the door, a familiar joyful face peering round at them.
"Well now ain't that just the prettiest picture," said Nanny, "It does my old heart good to see yer together again in here, I remember when yer was young Jack, hammering away on that piano and making a hell of a row. Sure it was enough to wake the dead. Now then, I've come to get yer so you can get ready for the dance. Isis is steaming mad you missed tea so you'd best be on time for the party or she'll be as green as that snake of hers."
Jareth laughed, "Now that I would pay to see," he said getting to his feet and helping Sarah to hers, "Shall we, my lady?"
"Oh no!" said Nanny, "None of that, a woman must have her mysteries. I'll come and fetch Sarah's dresses to Miss Anna's room."
Jareth sighed, "Alright Nana but only because I know you shan't give me any peace if I argue," he said, the old woman smiling at his easy demeanour."
"Ah yer a good lad," she said as Anna steered herself to the door ahead of them, "Are you alright Miss?"
Anna smiled, "Perfectly fine, Nana," she said as they all left the music room. Sarah knew she shouldn't have been amazed how well the young Fae handled her old-fashioned wheeled chair but she was shocked what little assistance she needed in the pyramid that was clearly not designed with her in mind. As they reached a set of three marble steps Sarah waited for Jareth to step over and sweep up his sister but Anna simply waved her hand and floated from the top to the bottom, reminding Sarah she was in the company of anything but mortals.
They soon reached the door to Jareth's room, Anna's just across the hall and it was into that room that Sarah found herself herded by Nanny.
"Yer just go in there with Miss Anna while I fetch yer frock," she said, "Men can't be trusted when it comes to gowns, sure he'd have yer wearing a day frock for the night time."
Sarah felt her nerves grow as soon as the door swung closed. Despite her comfort with Anna in Jareth's presence, the silence that followed his departure showed Sarah how little she knew his twin. Anna turned to her, understanding in her face.
"Sarah I shan't bite just because Jareth's gone," she said, "I am quite certain you and I will be friends."
Sarah smiled, "Sorry," she said, "Guess I just don't know what to expect, here's you, the person who knows him best in the whole world, and me, the woman who broke his heart."
"When you were fifteen," said Anna as she manoeuvred herself to a large, ornate dresser, "He was heart broken yes but like you said, I know him and I know what a fool he can be. It took a while but I got the story of your final encounter out of him and I would have thought you a fool had you accepted him back then. I knew if you were destined for each other, if his love for you was as deep as he said, I knew fate would find a way."
"I just wish our reunion hadn't had to come about the way it did," said Sarah.
Anna rubbed absently at her left shoulder, "We are linked, Jack and I, and I felt every crack of that whip. I felt his pain as my own but…I wish him no harm, I love him more than my life, but this experience…all he has suffered has made him a better person. I am not blind to his old arrogance, his disdain for his position but now he is humbled, he knows his subjects love him and he has found his own love for them. I wish he had not suffered for it but I am proud of the man he has come to be," she said, "Just promise me on thing and then we shall be sisters henceforth, promise me that you won't hurt him again."
Sarah smiled, "On that I can give you my word right here and now," she said, "I love him, even when he drives me mad, I'll never hurt him, I swear."
"Then, sweet sister, I shall take you at your word," said Anna as the door opened and Nanny Shee walked in, a large white dress in her arms.
"Now then," said Nanny, "Would yer like me to do yer hair for yer Miss Sarah?"
Sarah nodded, "Please," she said knotting a lock around her finger, "Just leave most of it long, Jareth likes it that way."
Nanny shared an indulgent smile with her charge before setting the dress on the chest at the foot of the bed, "Of course Miss," she said, "Miss Anna, Master Jack asked me to send yer over to him, think he was getting himself into a to do over a shirt like he does."
"I'll go to him," said Anna taking herself to the door, "I won't be long."
The princess quickly crossed the hall, not even bothering to knock on her brother's door before opening it. Jareth sat in the window seat, still dressed in his clothes from the afternoon but everything for the ball laid out on his bed. Anna closed the door behind her but Jareth kept his eyes on the window.
"So?" he said.
"I've never seen you look as happy as you do when you look at her and that's enough for me," said Anna, "Just don't screw it up this time."
Jareth turned to her with a smile, "I think in asking her to be my wife I have proved my intentions not to screw it up this time."
Anna manoeuvred herself through the chaos of trunks to his side, "But what about her immortality? Have you even made the application? Jareth you are promising her forever without even knowing if you can give her that."
"She's not simple Anne, she knows at present we have but a brief time," said Jareth, "The application is written and sat over on the dresser. I intend to request the application be heard by Titania at the ball tonight, leaving anyone doubting the identity of my future queen certain of it. There's also a gift I have for her, to leave her in little doubt. I would have made the application sooner but…well, much as I love her, I needed to know your opinion first, especially after Mizumi."
Anna softened, "Mizumi was different," she said, "What matters my opinion in this when your heart speaks so loudly?"
Jareth took her hand, "You and I have passed through this life together, flesh and blood to each other as none else could be. You are my second self Anastasia, my truest friend, and your happiness is my greatest concern."
Anna took his face in her hands, pressing her lips to his chastely, "My happiness is your happiness," she said, "You are in love, an emotion I never thought I'd see you bear for a life partner. Jack you could have brought me someone I despised but if she and you wore the look I see when you and Sarah gaze at one another I would give you my blessing. Luckily for me though I adore Sarah, so we are all happy."
Jareth hugged her tightly, "To think I thought you lost," he said, "I promise from now on, Isis or no, I will come here every month to you so long as you promise to come to the Goblin Kingdom more frequently also, it will be nice for Sarah to have some female company on occasion."
"I promise," said Anna, pulling back, "And now I should get for you must change and I must rescue Sarah from one of Nanny's more elaborate hair stylings."
Jareth laughed, "Yes indeed, please save my young brief from such horrors."
Anna smiled, "Bride…oh how truly wonderful that sounds," she said, "And my brother a groom at last. I've never been happier Jack, truly."
"Neither have I," said Jareth before waving her off, "Now get out you troublesome girl before you set me off. I shan't be fit to be seen in company if you make me cry."
"Well that just won't do," said Anna heading for the door, turning in her chair before she opened it and looking between the clothes on the bed and her brother, "Don't wear the long coat, wear the one Tana made, let Sarah see you in that again. Have you it with you?"
"Of course," said Jareth, "And if you think it best…"
"I do," said Anna, "You both have fond memories of it I'm sure. You may have her hand, dear brother, but it would do no harm to woo her a little still."
"You, dearest sister, are incorrigible."
"And you, beloved twin, know I am always right."
Jareth laughed, "Get on with you," he said as Anna finally opened the door, "I shall call for you both in an hour."
xxxx
Sarah stood in front of the long elegant mirror, trying not to frown at how much like a bride she looked in the pretty white ball gown. She could not deny the dress of velvet and silk was far more exquisite than anything she had ever worn, even more beautiful that the dress Jareth hand given her in her hallucination ten years before but her heart still felt little to it. She regarded the two figures behind, Anna, who sat dressed in an elegant lilac gown, and Nanny Shee fixing the final curls of her hair. Anna had explained what her dress truly meant, unwed Fae woman wearing shades of purple formally while married women wore the colours of their husband, leaving Sarah quite conspicuous in her plain white dress. The knowledge of that also made her dress all the more abhorrent but her disdain for it was complete as she thought that her dream of a white dress centred around a wedding rather than a dance that would bring her little but censure.
She caught Anna' gaze and she smiled a little sadly at her. Anna gave a wave to the made behind her.
"Thank you Nana, I think I shall do," she said, "You'd be best to get downstairs before Lady Isis sends a search party, my brother will escort us down."
"Very good miss," she said with a small curtsey before offering the same genuflection to Sarah, "Miss Sarah."
"Thank you Nana," said Sarah with a smile.
The maid fussed a few final strands of Anna's hair before she left the room and the two girls alone. Sarah smoothed her hands over her tight bodice as she turned back to the mirror.
"Will Jareth come for us soon do you think?" she said tugging on the cuff of her sleeve.
"You're uncomfortable," said Anna.
Sarah looked back over her shoulder, "Of course not," she said, "It's nice that you and I get some quiet time together."
Anna came to her side, "That's not what I mean," she said, "Your dress, you're not comfortable in it."
"It fits perfectly," said Sarah.
"The fit is irrelevant," said Anna stroking the soft velvet over skirt, "You know what it means and you aren't comfortable wearing it. Sarah, of Jareth and I he has always been the rebellious one but I am just as against some of the imposed traditions of the world as he is. Your presence alone tonight will cause a stir, why don't we make things even more interesting?"
Sarah looked down at Anna and saw the smile of conspiracy similar to her brother's on her face.
"How?"
"I think the Goblin Kingdom needs to make a show of unity and power tonight, a point of solidarity," said Anna, "Kneel down before me and close your eyes."
Sarah frowned but did as she was told, feeling Anna's small hands take hold of hers. She heard her whispering but the words were in a language she couldn't understand, they were soon forgotten though as Sarah felt a warmth rush over her where the material of her dress covered her.
"Open your eyes, look in the mirror," said Anna.
Sarah got to her feet and smiled at the new reflection that greeted her. The cut of her dress remained the same, full silk skirt overlaid with velvet, and a tight bodice that dropped off her shoulders into tight sleeves which ended in a point at her wrists. The colour though had completely changed, white replaced with a midnight blue, so dark it was nearly black, the velvet skirt covered with tiny crystals that glittered like stars in the night sky.
"Jareth's colours," said Anna, "Wearing them shows everyone that you are his queen."
Sarah frowned, "Shouldn't we ask Jareth if he's ok with this?"
"Trust me," said Anna, "He'll love it. You look wonderful, Isis will be green with envy."
Sarah laughed, turning fully to the princess, "If only," she said, "I'm going to be hiding behind your brother all night."
"I highly doubt that," said Ann as a knock came at the door, "Speak of the devil and he shall appear. Come in rat bag!"
"The door opened fully, revealing Jareth in very familiar formal dress, "Rat bag, Annie mouse, we'll have to…by the Gods!"
"I told you he would like it," said Anna heading for the door, "I'll be meeting you both downstairs I think."
"Mmm, yes, downstairs," said Jareth, stepping aside absently to allow her through the door.
Anna patted his arm, "Do close your mouth darling, you look like one of Poseidon's subjects."
Jareth shook his head and glanced down at her, "What was that?"
"Nothing dear," she said, "I'll see you both downstairs. If you intend to be late please take the reason back across the hall."
Jareth gave her an arch look but said nothing as she left the room, closing the door behind her. Sarah fiddled with the skirt of her dress nervously.
"Don't," said Jareth, "Just…stay still…just for a moment."
Sarah let her hands fall to her sides but blushed under his scrutiny before he crossed the room to her, kissing her soundly.
"You look so beautiful," he said, "My Sarah."
"You don't look so bad yourself," she said slipping her hand beneath his jacket, "This certainly brings back some memories. I didn't realise the significance of the colour back then though."
Jareth ran his hands over the tight silk at her waist, "But you do now?"
"Anna told me," she said, "It was her idea for me to look like this…what's this?"
Sarah opened his jacket further to reveal an elegant medal on a light blue ribbon pinned to his waistcoat. She looked up at him as she turned it in her hand.
"A medal?"
"The Pendragon," he said.
"Why don't you wear it so people can see it?"
"It's enough to know that it is there," he said with a rueful smile, "I needed something to remind me that I am not just here as Osiris' son, but enough of me. Sarah words truly flee me when I even begin to try and describe how you look in that dress, do you really want to go downstairs tonight?"
Sarah laughed, "You, sir, have a one tracked mind."
"Can you really blame me when you stand there looking like that?" he said, "Pretty as that dress is though, I do prefer what's beneath it."
Sarah slipped her arms up around his neck, "Well I promise you can definitely help me out of this," she said raising herself on her toes to whisper in his ear, "And you can do it as slowly as you want."
Sarah laughed as Jareth groaned against her shoulder, his hands tightening about her waist.
"I swear my Kingdom will go to rack and ruin with you at my side," he said, "I shall be far too distracted to do any work. Have you got any idea how much I love you, my queen?"
"A little," said Sarah as he took a step back from her and reached into his inside pocket, pulling out something wrapped in a soft, dark material. He took it from its cover, Sarah unable to make out what it was. He led her to the dresser chair and sat her down facing the mirror.
"I had this made for you alone, even before I could even hope to see you again," he said stepping behind her, "Every queen, should have a crown."
Sarah watched her reflection as he fastened a slim circlet of gold across her forehead, securing the ends into her hair with soft thin ribbons that stood out in elegant contrast against her black hair. The adornment was simple but its effect dramatic and Sarah felt herself sit a little straighter in her chair as she smiled at the gift. She turned to look at him.
"It's beautiful, thank you," she said.
"You are most welcome," said Jareth, helping her to her feet, "We should go down, are you ready?"
Sarah nodded, "As I'll ever be," she said with a nervous smile, "Kiss for luck?"
"Like I need an excuse," said Jareth kissing her softly before leading her to the door and out onto the corridor.
They passed slowly through the ornate corridors with little haste, Jareth pausing now and then to show her an ancient artefact or tell her the history of a figure in a portrait on the wall. He all but had to drag her away when she spotted one of him at all of ten years old, dressed in his father's fashions and looking wiry and too pale amongst his elder brothers. Even in the still artwork Khepri's protective demeanour seemed apparent as his hands rested firmly on his tiny brother's shoulders.
They were soon back on the ground floor of the pyramid, large torches lighting their way towards the sound of music and conversation. They stepped up to a large, ebony wood door inlaid with golden hieroglyphs and guarded by two soldiers in Egyptian dress. Jareth greeted them both in a language Sarah didn't understand before turning to her as they began to pull the doors open.
"Just follow my lead," he said, "Stay close to people you know and avoid Isis as best you can. We show our faces for a couple of hours then we can quietly retire. I'm with you every step darling."
Sarah took his arm as they door opened fully and he led her into the noise and light. They stepped onto a landing that dropped into a wide staircase, large enough to hold at least a hundred people on its bottom step alone it seemed. The room below was of marble and gold, reminding Sarah of the Egyptian Hall at Harrods in London but filled with elegantly dressed party goers rather than jewellery counters and tourists. Regarding the view, Sarah would have felt more at home in the latter. Tables covered in food and wine lined the walls with smaller tables dotted here and there around the large dance floor that was currently filled with dancers. An orchestra played to the left of the room whilst seated on a plateau at its head on ornate thrones sat Isis, in an elegant cream and green gown, and Osiris with Queen Titania in the place of honour between them.
The Avalonian queen was a study in beauty, her wild curls sleek and tamed, flowing over her bared shoulders and naked arms. Her dress was a tight silver, hugging her figure until flaring just below her slim hips into a long train that spilled across the plateau and down the small steps.
Sarah was suddenly aware that the room had fallen silent and she grasped Jareth's arm a little tighter as it felt like a million eyes turned to stare at them. A butler announced them, the Goblin King and his Grand Duchess, and she heard a few stifled murmurs but she kept her eyes fixed on Titania's soft smiling face as she beckoned them forward. Jareth led her down the stairs and across the floor, couples parting to allow them to pass. They finally reached the base of the plateau and Sarah needed no cue to drop into a low, elegant curtsey.
"Rise children," said Titania as she stood, "And welcome. My Lord Osiris is it not a happy occasion to see the youngest son of your house returned home and with such an enchanting partner?"
"Indeed it is," said Osiris, "They are greatly welcome."
Titania smiled, "Prince Jareth, Lady Sarah, I am glad to have this chance to meet with you formally and in front of so many for this happy setting is perfect for what Avalon now gives you," she said, "You undertook great pains to save us all from the shadow, I have seen from the start your sacrifice and now Avalon honours you. Jareth-Aten, Lord of the Pendragon, our highest honour you already have but we would grant you once more the Captaincy of our Royal Forces, for you have proved your strength once more in battle."
Jareth bowed, "Your Majesty, no honour is needed to save to see Avalon standing strong and just once more," he said, "I thank you for your kind offer but the mantle of Captain has long since passed from my hands and my duty lies to the Goblin Kingdom. My Lady, I would ask you pass the honour to one of those who serve you already, we are in a new age and new leadership will strengthen the forces of our home isle."
Titania smiled, "As you wish, dear nephew, but our thanks do not diminish nonetheless," she said before turning her gaze to Sarah, "Only once before had Avalon been so beholden to a mortal, King Arthur helped to save our world and was honoured accordingly, honour we now pass to you Lady Sarah, henceforth Lady Sarah of the Pendragon, highest of the order of valour on Avalon."
"Seriously!" Sarah squeaked before recovering herself and curtseying shakily, "I mean, thank you Your Majesty, I really don't know what to say."
"Say you accept my dear," said Titania, "That's all."
"I do," said Sarah brightly, "I do with all my heart."
"Then rise, Lady Pendragon and…"
"My apologies Your Majesty," came Anubis' voice as he stepped forward from the crowd, dressed head to foot in black, "But there is one additional honour that should be bestowed by the Underground upon its new heroine," he said, "I ask that Lady Sarah receive the Order of Osiris."
Titania raised a perfectly arched eyebrow, "The Order of Osiris can only be bestowed by Osiris himself Prince Anubis."
"Or in his stead, if all seven sons are in agreement," said Anubis, "Jareth, I assume I can count upon your vote."
Jareth smiled as he saw the shock begin to register on Sarah's face, "Most definitely."
"Amadeus, Dimitry, what say you?"
Amadeus nodded to his elder brother and Dimitry spoke for them both, "Both the Kingdoms of the Dwarves and the Gnomes honour Lady Sarah, we give our vote."
"And I," said Khonsu as Khepri left his side and took Sarah's now trembling hands.
"I knew your heart the day we met in China," he said, "And I knew your courage the day we fought side by side. Sweetest little sister, you have my vote ten times over."
"That leaves only the eldest of the Osiran sons," said Titania, "Prince Horus, what say you?"
"Yes, dear son," said Isis getting to her feet, "What say you?"
Horus looked up at his mother who smiled cruelly in return, "Queen Titania, the Order is for warriors alone, not a mere mortal unrecognised by Avalonian law."
Titania sighed, waving a hand to still any coming protest, "Then the vote is cast."
"By my sons maybe," said Osiris descending the stairs to Sarah's side, "But the Order as you say is mine to give. Kneel before me, child."
Sarah looked to Jareth for guidance and he nodded for her to do as requested. She knelt as best she could at Osiris' feet, her head bowed.
"When you arrived today I called you warrior for, trained by Avalon or no, you stood against our foes," he said drawing the sword that hung ceremonially at his side and touching the flat of it to her bare shoulder, "You are more than worthy of the honour my sons with to bestow and so, young Sarah of the Above, rise now as Lady Pendragon, Order of Osiris."
Sarah got to her feet, tears in her eyes as Osiris handed his blade to a nearby servant and took gentle hold of her shoulders. He pressed a kiss to her forehead.
"You are most welcome here my dear," he said before raising his voice to the crowd, "Friends, what blessings come this night, the Shadow defeated and we may welcome home our too long absent son and a new friend but perhaps, more so, we welcome they who led us to victory. My Aten, come to my side and stand with your young comrade."
Jareth crossed the short distance to them, taking Sarah's hand as Osiris offered it to him. They both looked on in bemusement as Osiris did not return to the plateau but instead stood in front of the main crowd.
"Father?" said Jareth, "What…"
The Goblin King was silenced as the Lord of the Underground knelt before them, the rest of the room following suit until all were before them in genuflection. Jareth turned to Titania for guidance but she too had her head bowed, only Isis and Horus stood without deference, Isis looking disdainfully at the scene while her son stood uncomfortably at her side. He turned back to the crowd just to see his father raise his gaze.
"Hail," said Osiris, "Heroes of Avalon."
The crowd echoed the call, thunderously so, and Sarah gripped all the tighter onto Jareth's hand as the power of the sentiment hit her. Osiris stood once more, those gathered following suit and breaking into rapturous applause. Sarah turned to the Fae beside her, seeing tears in his crystalline eyes. Dropping all decorum she loosed his hand and wrapped an arm about his waist.
"You deserve this," she whispered, "All of this. Welcome home, Prince of Avalon."
Jareth smiled down at her, taking her free hand, "Home, precious, is right her," he said before Osiris stood before him once more, "Father, this is…"
"For you both," said Osiris, "Now come, formalities are over. This is a party and I see no dancing. You have perhaps the most enchanting partner of the evening, set an example to our guests and take her to the floor."
Jareth smiled, "As you wish, sir," he said before turning to Sarah with a small bow, "Lady Pendragon, if I may have this dance?"
"A request too good to refuse, Lord Pendragon," she giggled as he led her to the floor.
The orchestra started up as they reached the centre and Jareth turned her beneath his arm before sweeping her into an elegant waltz, couples around them gradually joining the dance. Sarah giggled as she looked over to see Isis hissing a tirade at her husband, though the words were lost to the music, Osiris not even noticing her as he watched the dance unfold.
"What's so funny?" said Jareth.
"Your Dad just got a flea in his ear from Isis," said Sarah, "I don't think she's too pleased with me."
Jareth turned them so he could watch the scene, "Let her steam," he said, "You are recognised by Titania and Osiris, she matters not. You've earned your fair share of titles tonight, my lady, how do you feel?"
"Like any second now I'm going to wake up," said Sarah gripping his shoulder a little tighter, "If this is a dream I don't want to ever wake up."
"Neither do I," said Jareth as the orchestra struck a faster tempo tune, "Do you know the Chardash?"
Sarah shook her head.
"Then we'd best clear the floor," said Jareth, "These things can get a little frantic. I do believe though that my Father has broken out some of his more potent wine and I think it would be rude not to sample a glass or two."
"Trying to get me drunk Mr Alba?" said Sarah as he led her from the floor.
"Well now how else will I ever get to have my wicked way with you tonight?" he said with a sly smile.
Sarah grinned up at him, "Well for a start you're wearing the clothes that have featured in a number of wonderful fantasies," she said in a low whisper, "And the fact that I have fallen hook, line and sinker for you also helps."
Jareth stopped her at the edge of the floor, "You know, music really doesn't matter all that much for dancing," he said.
Sarah didn't protest as he turned her once more and swept her into their own private waltz.
xxxx
The evening passed happily, the dancing and easy atmosphere helping Sarah feel more comfortable amongst the hundreds of strangers who kept coming to them to congratulate them or to learn more of their mortal visitor. Despite numerous offers Sarah's dance card bore only Jareth's name but soon the lure of conversation took over and she found herself sat around a table with those she had come to know best in the Underground.
"And the, and I tell you no lie, he fell something like ten feet right out of the sky and boom he went straight into a holly bush in a flurry of feathers," said Khepri, his speech a touch effected by the easy flowing wine.
"It was not a holly bush," said Jareth indignantly, "It was a hawthorn."
"Holly or hawthorn, Nanny was pulling prickers out of your behind for three days straight," said Khepri before his laughter fell silent and he gave Jareth a far more serious look, "I'd make good your escape now if I were you little bird."
"Why?" said Jareth before turning in his chair to follow his brother's gaze to the top of the grand stairs, "Oh…"
"What?" said Sarah following suit only to see a beautiful woman with flowing white hair and elegant violet robes at the entrance way, "Is that…"
"Mosquito," sneered Anna, "She's not seen you yet Jack, go before they announce her."
"Since when did it become compulsory for me to leave a room just because she has entered it?" said Jareth, as the butler at the door struck his cane for attention.
"Presenting Queen Mizumi of the Moraine," he said as the Fae descended the stairs as if there were air rather than marble beneath her feet, the diadems in her crown flashing in the candlelight.
"Oh my," said Sarah, "She's…"
"A rattle snake," said Anna taking her hand, "Jack!"
Sarah smiled weakly, "It's alright," she said, "We've been pretty good at the ex thing so far."
"She says one word you don't like and we'll leave," said Jareth as Isis crossed to Mizumi, kissing her with an overt affection that reminded Sarah of two Hollywood actresses forced to get along for the sake of their careers.
"Let her talk," said Sarah as Mizumi continued to play court amongst the guests, "What's she going to do in a room full of people?"
"You'd be surprised," said Khepri as his twin came to his side.
"Back up required?" asked Khonsu, his jade hair falling in elegant plaits over his silver white jacket.
"By the gods," said Jareth in exasperation, "You're all acting like it's another invasion. Its just Mizumi, that's all."
"That's all, Jareth darling?" came a silky voice behind them. "I never knew I meant so little to you."
Jareth cursed impressively under his breath before getting to his feet and taking her proffered hand.
"I would not have though my opinion of importance my lady," he said, not even meeting her hand with a kiss as he raised it to his lips.
"Now, now Jack," purred Mizumi, "Bygones are bygones and all. You should know that more than anyone now you're home. Khepri, Khonsu, a pleasure as always."
The twins offered the minimum of polite greeting, clearly wishing they were elsewhere as Mizumi lowered her gaze to Anastasia.
"I barely saw you down their, you quiet little thing," said the queen, "Not even a hello, Anna? We were near sisters once."
"Hello Mizumi," said Anna with effected pleasure before she shot a sly glance at Sarah, "Might I introduce Lady Sarah, Grand Duchess of the Labyrinth, to you Your Majesty?"
Sarah got to her feet, finding herself a good head shorter than the Fae queen but taking strength from Jareth's hand as it slipped to the small of her back, "A pleasure, Your Majesty, I've heard…so much about you."
"A Grand Duchess?" said Mizumi, "Jareth I did not realise you had taken to keeping court."
"I have not," said Jareth, "Sarah was honoured by my Kingdom when she bested the Labyrinth but it is not a title she will hold much longer."
"Indeed?" said Mizumi, her coolly appraising gaze taking in every inch of Sarah's figure, "Why ever not?"
Jareth looked down at Sarah, taking her left hand and raising it to his lips, "She will soon relinquish it," he said, "For she is soon to be my queen."
Mizumi tried to mask her shock but failed bitterly, "My…well, Jareth, is this not the …sweetest surprise," she said, "May I be the first to wish you joy for this sudden announcement. A whirlwind romance, how quaint."
Jareth smiled, "Not such a whirlwind, Sarah and I have known each other for a long time and though we have been somewhat separated we have realised recently that we have often thought of the other."
Mizumi regarded them quizzically, "And why this separation?"
"I'm from the Above," said Sarah, feeling Jareth's hand flex at her back as realisation dawned on Mizumi's face, "Ten years we were separated but not any more."
"How charming," said Mizumi through her teeth, "I shan't trouble you for a dance then dear Jareth, I would not deprive you of your betrothed. Do you dance Sarah?"
"A little," said Sarah as Mizumi pulled out a chair and sat down, her back deliberately to Anna, forcing the girl to move closer to her elder brothers. Sarah looked behind her to see Jareth frown but was surprised when he said nothing, merely pulling out a chair for her and standing behind it, his hands on her shoulders.
"You must be sure to teach Sarah to dance Jareth," said Mizumi, "A woman can never truly call herself a lady until she can hold herself at Court and therefore no woman is a lady until she can dance. Wouldn't you agree, Anastasia?"
Sarah saw the pain flash across Anna's face as Khonsu knelt down beside her and took her trembling hand. She waited for the explosion, for Jareth's temper to rise to the forefront from where it had been so tightly reined but it never came.
"Indeed Mizumi, you are right that it is desirable for a young lady to be able to dance," he said, "But should not a talent such as that be coupled with an air of compassion and a gentleness befitting a queen?"
He went to his sister's side and offered her his hand, "If I might have the pleasure Anne?"
Anna looked close to tears at the gesture but then her gaze dropped to the floor as she smiled up at her brother, placing her hand in his. Both Khepri and Khonsu glance over the table with a laugh but Sarah could not see the cause of their mirth for Mizumi's presence.
"A lady my dance, Your Majesty," said Jareth, "But a true lady must appear to dance on air."
It was when Anna got to her feet that Sarah realised what had caused her to smile and the twin's to laugh, as she rose Jareth did also, air and not marble beneath his boots. A collective gasp went up from the gathered guests as they floated slowly up towards the ceiling against the very laws of gravity. Jareth waved a hand and the band struck a tune. With no gravity acting upon her, Anna danced in her brother's arms as well as any fine lady could on the ground.
Sarah could hear Isis raving, demanding Osiris summon them down and send them packing. She couldn't help but laugh at the frenzy the elegantly coiffed woman worked herself into as Osiris and Titania shared amused glances. Finally the Lord of the Underground walked over to where Sarah stood, a smile on his handsome face.
"What spell have you woven young mortal to have my son dancing on air?" he said.
Sarah giggled, "None that I know if sir," she said.
"Perhaps it is merely the joy of being home with you Lord Osiris," said Mizumi sweetly.
Osiris offered her a curt nod but no more before he turned his attention to his children above, "They cut quite a lonely couple in a way," he said offering his hand to Sarah, "If I might, dear lady?"
Sarah blushed but slipped her hand into his, gripping on a little tighter as her feet left the floor and she floated up towards the ceiling. She saw other couples rising around her, Osiris' permission clearly given, but soon turned her attention to her partner as he swept her into the dance. Isis' rants below were soon drowned out by the orchestra and the laughter of those who continued to join the dance.
"Other than my youngest son I must be the envy of the room tonight," said Osiris, "I thought none would be able to steal you from his arms."
"I hope I haven't offended anyone dancing only with him," said Sarah, "I didn't mean to."
"There's no offence child," said Osiris, "Well, maybe a little and only to the wives of those unable to spare you from their gaze for a moment. Truly I know of only two human women I find fairer tan you look this evening, for one I hold a nostalgic love…"
"Lilijana," said Sarah softly, "Jareth told me about her and I saw your drawing, she was very beautiful but forgive me, I interrupted you and you were going to mention another."
Osiris looked over to where Jareth and Anastasia were dancing, "You speak of my Lilly, I speak of her image yet alive in the world."
Sarah smiled but it was touched with a confused frown, "But Anna is not human, she's an immortal, a Fae."
"By the design of Avalon maybe," said Osiris, "But she and her brother are more human than even they know. They still hold that spark of mortality, that excitement in a the briefest moment of time, every day striving for joy, all mortal qualities held when teetering on the brink of death despite eternity before them. I always knew my Aten would choose a bride from amongst those Above and I am proud of the choice he has brought me."
"You're too kind sir," said Sarah.
"My name is Osiris," he said, "I would like for you to call me that, formality is my wife's demand, not mine."
"I hope you're not telling Sarah all my childhood misdemeanours Papa," came Jareth's voice as he and Anna swept passed them, "I have a sister already doing that for me."
"I would not dream of it," said Osiris, "I believe I've already kept your partner too long and besides, I wish a dance with my babe."
Osiris took Anna's hand from Jareth as the Goblin King took a firm hold of Sarah, keeping her safely in the air. Osiris soon whirled his daughter away into the dance, Anna laughing gaily at something he whispered to her.
"Enjoying the party?" said Jareth, simply keeping her floating rather than returning to the dance.
Sarah nodded, "I'm proud of you," she said, "The way you handled Mizumi."
Jareth shrugged, "She wanted a scene, I just gave her one she didn't expect. I wanted nothing more than to tear her to pieces but it does Anna no good when I fly off in her defence. Hopefully now Mizumi will leave us be for the rest of the evening. Shall we go down?"
Sarah smiled and kissed him softly, "Dance with me a while longer," she said, taking his hand to her waist before placing hers on his shoulder, "Just a while longer."
"As you wish, my queen."
xxxx
The dance passed from evening to night, the revellers happy to celebrate the return of Jareth to she shores of his home. When the aerial dance finally returned to the ground Sarah found Jareth swiftly whipped from her side, the Goblin King in high demand after his long absence. She found conversation here and there but despite the acceptance in most of the faces the conversation was stilted at best. She wandered around the ballroom until she found a door, covered by a curtain, which led onto a veranda outside.
She stepped into the cool night air and walked along from the door until the music quieted, hugging her arms around herself as she leant over the railing to look at the gardens below. She raised her eyes, trying to pick out constellations she knew amongst the stars and finding none.
"You shan't find Orion or Taurus looking up at the sky soror," came Anna's voice from behind her, "You'd be better off staking out the punch bowl."
"When I was in England, or any where else in the Above, I would always look up at the stars and see one I knew, that way I felt I was never far from home," said Sarah, "I'm a long way from home tonight."
"Such melancholy musings?"
"I just feel a little alien," said Sarah, "Everyone's so…"
"I know," said Anna, "I felt that way too when Papa first brought Jack and I here. I still feel it sometimes."
"Do you miss it?" asked Sarah, "The Above?"
"Jack and I go often," said Anna, "But as for my life before, well I remember very little. Jareth remembers more, he remembers our mother, such vivid memories. I remember her beauty, her gentleness but not much more. Perhaps that is why I have let go and he clings to her still, that ring, the scarf she gave him, Father's picture. I think that is why he has never truly adjusted to this world, he's always searching for something, never settled, he has gypsy blood in his veins still."
"He never ever kept still," said Sarah, "He was always fidgeting back home, needing to do something."
"That's my Jack, he…"
"Why Lady Sarah, how fortunate, I was hoping to catch a moment alone with you."
"Your Majesty," said Sarah, curtseying as politely as she could as Mizumi stepped onto the veranda.
The queen slipped between Sarah and Anna, her back once more deliberately to the Fae princess. Sarah scowled and stepped round until she was at Anna's side, her hand on her shoulder as she forced Mizumi to face them both.
"What did you want me for?" she asked.
"I just wondered when the happy event was to occur," she said, "Jareth has been away from court for so long he has probably forgotten how far in advance such events should be arranged to ensure people can attend. Our wedding date was arranged almost a year in advance and…oh, I hope I haven't said more than I should."
Sarah quirked a wry smile, "Jareth told me Mizumi, we have no secrets," she said, "And we have yet to set a date officially but we'll be sure to let you know."
"Be sure you do," said Mizumi, "Oh, forgive the girlish impulse but do let me see the ring, Jareth always had such exquisite tastes in jewellery."
Sarah tried to protest but Mizumi took hold of her left hand too quickly, making a show of examining it.
"No ring," said the queen, "How odd. Jareth was once so sure of things. I'm quite the sentimental fool, I still wear the ring her gave me when he asked for my hand. Isn't it beautiful?"
"Very pretty," said Sarah as she took in the truly exquisite diamond band Mizumi thrust before her.
"It is isn't it?" sighed Mizumi, "Tradition too you know, a Fae will always mark his future bride as soon as he is assured of her to chase off any competition. I suppose Jareth saw little need, few Fae would wish for a mortal wife."
"Seems Jareth never wanted a Fae wife," retorted Sarah.
"Peace Sarah," said Anna softly, "Let it be, it's what she wants."
"Well if its what she wants, its what she'll get," said Sarah, "I've known you barely four hours Mizumi and I do not like what I have seen one bit. Jareth was wise to leave you, you're vile, bitter and jealous, jealous that he chose me over you and that he wanted a mortal that than a Fae."
Mizumi smiled cruelly, "Oh Jareth wanted me little girl," she said, "He still does."
"In your dreams."
"In my bed," said Mizumi, "Ask him, ask your darling betrothed about how he came to me not six months ago, how he tore off my clothes in such a passion I could not resist him, how it was my name he cried as we lay joined in my bed."
Sarah blinked back the threat of tears, "You're lying,"
"Ask him," said Mizumi cruelly as Sarah turned away from her, "He cannot lie to you if you tell him not to, it will hurt him too much."
"It's not true," said Anna, "I know its not."
"He swore," said Sarah distantly, "Eleven years…"
"Don't feel bad little mortal," said Mizumi at her ear, "It was to be expected. How can any Fae resist when he has the choice of quality against a plain, fat, little child of no breeding. He came to me, he'll come to me again. All those years he loved you he says and yet he lay with me, time to wake up I think darling, this is no fairytale."
Sarah struggled back, fleeing for the doors without another word despite Anna's cries not to. The princess grabbed Mizumi's hand as she made to follow.
"Leave her alone you witch."
"Let me go," hissed Mizumi, "I can't bear you touching me."
Anna took her other hand to her wrist and held tightly, her nails leaving crescent shaped indentations on Mizumi's pale skin, "I won't let you ruin this."
"Won't you now," said Mizumi, tearing her hand from Anna's grip with such ferocity it toppled her chair, sending her sprawling to the floor as Isis appeared in the doorway.
"Is there a problem?" she asked more engrossed in the snake she carried like a boa about her neck.
"Not at all my lady," said Mizumi, "I was just admiring your lovely gardens."
Mizumi swept towards the door, Isis turning to follow.
"Mother," cried Anna, "Please."
"What do you want, troublesome girl?"
Anna looked weakly at her toppled chair, tears in her eyes, "Please."
Isis smiled cruelly, "Antiquis temporibus, nati tibi similes in rupibus ventosissimis expone banter ad necem."
Anna let out a desperate sob as Isis returned to the ball without a second glance. She knew crying out would do little good over the din of the music and she had no guarantee of anyone else venturing outside. She dragged herself to her chair, her magic too spent from her dance to allow her to levitate. She struggled to right the chair, pushing it firmly back against the railings when she did. She heaved herself into the seat, her face burning with tears of anger and exertion. She allowed herself barely a moment to recover, hurrying back to the ballroom in search of Sarah and her brother.
In her haste to pass through the guests she barely saw her elder brother until it was almost too late, Amadeus' strong hands the only things saving her from another tumble.
"Easy there Anna," he said, "Why such haste?"
"Have you see Jack?" she asked desperately.
"What has happened?"
"I just need him," said Anna.
Amadeus used his height to his advantage, peering over the crowd, "By the Hathor statue, with some of the visitors from the North," he said, "Anna, what…?"
Anna did not stop to hear her brother, hurrying to Jareth's side and reaching him just as he took his leave from the group before him. He turned and smiled as he saw her.
"There you are," he said, "I have been looking for you. You've not seen Sarah have you? She seems to have disappeared."
Anna beckoned him over, schooling her expression to casual indifference. Jareth came to her side but she called him closer still, making him bend to her as though to share a secret. The slap she aimed at him came without warning, catching him squarely round the cheek with a wicked noise.
"Find her yourself and you'd best be quick," she hissed, "I begged you not to ruin this Jack and now…"
"Ruin it?" he said still nursing his cheek in shock, "Anna what has happened?"
"Just find Sarah," said Anna turning from him, "And beg Ra to have her forgive you."
Jareth watched in confusion as his sister left him, her words and actions having pulled a curious little crowd which grew by the second. He straightened, eyes scanning the room for Sarah and when he could not see her his feet knew where to take him long before he did. He soon found himself outside his bedroom door, the sound of muffled sobs coming from within. He tried the handle but found it locked.
"Sarah, if that's you in there, unlock the door," he said, the sobs quieting at his words.
"Go away," said Sarah desperately, "Leave me alone."
"You're crying," said Jareth, "I'm hardly going to leave until I know that you're alright, precious."
"I'm not your precious," she cried, "Just get lost."
Jareth, stung a little by her words, tried the handle again, "Sarah, don't be stubborn, open the door."
"Piss off!"
"Locks can't stop me love, you know that," he said, "If you won't open it, I will."
He waved a hand over the lock and it clicked open, he pushed down on the handle, opening the door and closing it just as quickly as a blue dancing shoe ricocheted loudly off it. He opened the door once more as he heard her flee deeper into the room, the door to the adjoining bathroom slamming and locking. He stepped into the dark room, the bed sheets rumpled and one of the pillows damp with tears. He heard her crying once more behind the door and headed to it, making to try the handle before thinking better of it.
"Sarah, darling, if we've had a fight could you at least tell me what it was about," he said, but his humour fell on deaf ears.
"Like you don't know," said Sarah.
Jareth turned his back to the door and slid down till he was sat on the floor, "Has someone said something, done something…have I done something? Look I'm sorry if I've neglected you a little this evening but these damn balls are always so political."
"I don't give a fuck about politics."
Jareth sighed, "Then what is all this about?"
Sarah was silent for a long moment before she spoke again, her voice small and quiet, "I spoke to Mizumi," she said, "And she told me about the two of you."
Jareth paled, bashing his head back as he moaned in frustration, "Damn."
"So it's true then?"
"So she tells me," said Jareth running a hand over his eyes before pulling loosed his cravat.
"Tells you?"
"It was the anniversary of Lilly's death," said Jareth, "And as per tradition I dealt with it by getting blindly drunk. Hoggle used to lock the main door and hide the key but I'm turfed him out on his sorry behind the morning for a reason I can't remember. I remember nothing from the goblins singing Dreadnaught the Happy Minotaur until I woke up with the headache from hell in Mizumi's bed. She told me we'd spent the night together and I was certainly dressed for the part but I can't remember a thing."
"You lied to me," Sarah sobbed, "You said there had been no one…"
"I know but it's hardly something to admit to is it?" said Jareth, "Yes love, I vowed chastity to myself until I could be with you but, what would you know, I got completely wasted to try and drown out the memory of my family's screams and fucked the ex. That would have gone down so well."
"Reason or not you still lied to me!" said Sarah bitterly.
"Yes I lied! I lied and it bloody hurt. I lied because regardless of whether I went to bed with her or not, a night with Mizumi meant nothing to me when the only woman I have thought of in eleven years is you," said Jareth tearing off his gloves in frustration, "What happened that night, if it happened at all, was sex, stupid, mindless, pointless sex. It was wrong and I'm sorry but hell fire Sarah I didn't think I'd ever see you again and now I have you here with me are you going to let one stupid, idiotic night ruin all we have? I don't love Mizumi, I never did but you, Sarah, you had all of me at fourteen years old. You and only you do I intend to love for as long as the gods allow me. Don't push me away darling, not now."
Sarah's voice sounded a little closer to the door, "She's so beautiful."
"Is she?"
"Don't be cute," she hissed, "It's insulting."
"Almost as insulting as you hiding in there and comparing yourself to that witch. Sarah you're beautiful and I'm not the only one who saw that tonight."
Sarah snorted indignantly.
"Why can't you see it?" sighed Jareth, "What can I do to prove you mean the world to me? You're passionate, engaging, handsome and kind, all that makes you beautiful."
"I'm not," cried Sarah, "I'm fat and pale and so…so…human!"
"I'm human too Sarah."
"With all the beauty of a Fae."
"You're not the only one with insecurities," he said softly, "I know what it is to look at the Fae and see each comparison. I will never be my Father's son, I might have the gob that would tell the word otherwise but it'll never be true. When I'm with you though I need no bravado, no attitude, no act, I'm me and I like me when I'm with you and I wish my presence alone could do that for you."
"You don't understand, those women out there…"
"Are ten a penny here," said Jareth, "They're all the same and that grows dull, like walking in a sea of rare orchids when all I want is a rose."
"Poetic," said Sarah, her voice right by his ear behind the door.
"The truth," said Jareth, "Sarah, my Kingdom is hardly the greatest but my power and my connections are greatly desired. I could have married several times over but none of them ever came close to my heart. You fill it up with your light and that's what doubles your beauty in my eyes. I wake in the morning with you beside me, my temptress, my pretty little questor, and my best friend. You're the only woman I want, the only woman I intend to love ever again and that's the measure of it, that one small little word. Love. Love for you, for us, for everything I want us to have together. I'm sorry that I hurt you, I know I should have told you but I was ashamed and you know my pride better than anyone."
The door clicked behind him and Jareth hurried to his feet as it opened. Sarah stood in the doorway, her eyes puffy and her cheeks red from her tears. Jareth reached for her, taking her face in his hands and rubbing at the tear stains he found there with his thumbs, glad when she didn't pull back.
"I really am sorry you had to find out like that," he said, "I should have thought she'd pull something like that."
"I don't want to talk about her anymore," said Sarah, holding his gaze, her lashes spiky and damp framing her eyes in greater definition, "Just promise me its over with her."
"I swear on everything and everyone I love," he said solemnly, "There is nothing left between us. You're all I want."
Sarah smiled weakly, "God I must look a sight."
"A sight indeed," said Jareth but one I would gladly gaze upon for the rest of my life, let me?"
Sarah nodded, "I'm sorry I went off on one, I…"
Jareth touched a finger to her lips, "There's no point going over this all again and again," he said, "I don't want the little time we get alone to be spent raking over old ground."
Sarah arched an eyebrow, a small smile touching her lips, "And what would you rather be doing?"
Jareth smiled, "Well first I'm going to tell you that I love you and then you'll say that you are still foolish enough to love me," he said, "And then I thought we'd start with a kiss and see where things go from there."
"Sounds like a plan," said Sarah as his hands left her cheeks, sliding onto her shoulders then down to her arms before he pulled her closer to him by her waist.
"I love you Sarah Williams," he said as he bent to press a kiss to her neck, "So much."
"I love you too," Sarah choked before flinging her arms around his neck, hugging him tightly, "So much…too much. I…it hurts!"
"Hush," said Jareth, rocking her gently, one hand coming to stroke beneath the tumbling curls of her hair, his fingers light on her neck and shoulders.
Sarah clung to him for the longest time, her face buried in the material of his jacket, drinking in the scent of him. His fingers continued their slow dance, their soft touch slowly turning from comfort to something more sensual, sending tiny shivers down her spine. She sighed as one particular tremble took her and the touch ceased, Jareth pulling far enough back from her embrace to look down at her. He traced a finger along her jaw before tipping her face up to his, pressing a kiss to her lips that stole her breath in its tenderness alone.
She only parted from him when the need to breath took over but even then she moved only a hair's breadth from his touch. He gently worked the small circlet from her hair before leading her back into the bedroom, the moonlight filtering through the curtains the only light in the darkness, illuminating the soft sheets and the edge of the mirror that stood in the corner. Jareth set the gold band on the table before shrugging off his jacket, crystals sparkling briefly as it flew onto the dresser chair. He pulled open the curtain a little further before taking her hand and leading her closer to the mirror. He stood her before it before moving behind her, his hands at her waist keeping her in place.
"What…" she began.
He hushed her gently, "Trust me precious."
She smiled at their reflections, "Always," she said with a sigh as his lips sought her neck once more. Impulse told her to close her eyes but fascination kept them open, watching his fingers flex at her waist, his wild blond hair mixing with her black over her shoulder.
"See what I see darling," he said, his hands leaving her waist to work out the ribbons that fastened her dress, his eyes meeting hers in the mirror. He had soon loosened the ties enough to begin sliding it down her body, freeing her arms, chest, waist, hips until it pooled in a puddle of silk and velvet at her feet, leaving her in nothing more than a black corset and petticoat. His fingers traced a slow path from her hips to her chest, outlining her figure.
"These perfect curves," he said, his fingertips running over the swell of her breasts, her quickening breaths all the more apparent in the restrictive garment, "This pretty blush you get whenever I touch you."
Sarah watched the rose that came to her breast and neck as he continued his caress, "Jareth," she murmured at a loss for anything else.
He growled against her neck, nipping her pulse point, "No one says my name the way you do," he said, "Every time you do I fall, every time I want you more than I did the moment before."
"I don't have that power."
Jareth pulled her back against him, letting her feel the stirrings of his own desire, "Don't you?" he said, "You've bewitched me."
Sarah felt him sneak a hand up her back, the telltale buzz of magic shivering onto her skin as the clasps of the corset snapped loudly one by one in the silence of the room.
"Cheater," she said as he loosened the ribbon beneath the boned clasps before letting the black garment fall forgotten to the floor. She made to cover herself but Jareth kept her hands at her sides.
"Don't you dare, fine art should be admired and you are beyond perfection. Look," he said, his hand leaving hers to cup her breast, weighing it gently in his hand, "Made for me."
Sarah moaned, her eyes slipping closed as he caressed her. He turned her suddenly and before she could even squeak in surprise his mouth was on hers, hot and wet, demanding everything from her and receiving it without hesitation. He made short work of the rest of her undergarments without even breaking the kiss. He lifted her, kisses becoming feather-like brushes of his lips against hers as he carried her over to the bed. He lay her down and she shivered beneath his gaze as he drank in the sight of her from top to toe. He knelt at the foot of the bed and pressed a kiss almost reverently to her ankle.
"I worship you," he said softly working his way up her leg with teasing little nips, his mouth leaving a hot little pathway up her calf and onwards, his lips like a fire brand as he pressed longer lingering kisses on the sensitive hidden skin of her thigh. Sarah moaned as he paused just before where she wanted him most. She raised herself up on her elbows and blushed as she saw his head bowed, his eyes studying her as thought she was a precious gemstone.
"Beautiful," he murmured before pressing a kiss to the curls he found there.
Sarah whimpered desperately as the slow torture continued, lips, teeth, tongue touching her everywhere but where the ache in her rested. She wriggled, moaned, begged but her continued to toy with her until she let out a sound she wasn't even aware she could make, her hand fisting in his hair to hold him in place. It was the sign he'd been waiting for she realised as his hot, clever tongue found her centre, tearing a scream from her lips at the pleasure it sent through her.
Sarah twisted beneath him, half of her wanting to demand more of him, the other half terrified she'd implode if she did. He held her down firmly with one hand, reminding her just how deceptively strong he was but then coherent though fled her as one then two slender fingers slipped into her heat, thrusting in a rhythm with his mouth that altered with every second, allowing her no respite. She was lost in sensation, her own cries alien even to her as pleasure coiled tighter and tighter within her until she was sure the pain of it would overwhelm her. She let out an agonised sob before something in her snapped and she was flying, pleasure, hot as fire and as cold as ice rushing through her veins. He body came alive before she could not even feel her awareness of her very self any longer.
She was sure she had died but then she heard someone saying her name over and over like a mantra and warm lips pressed soft, fleeting kisses to hers, anchoring her back to the world. She kept her eyes closed as she reached for him, pulling him all but on top of her as she kissed him, tasting his familiar spice alongside something sweeter that had the heat ignite inside her once more. She ran her nails down his back and moaned as she felt the silk of his shirt.
"Get it off," she said desperately, "I want to feel you."
"Easy darling," he said stroking her hair, "We've got all night and I have at least two rotten interruptions to make up for."
Sarah blushed as she realised his meaning, "But you…I…I've already…"
He kissed her softly, "You didn't scream loud enough," he said nipping at her throat, "And I told you I wanted to hear you scream when you come for me. Seems I'll just have to keep going until I'm totally satisfied with your response."
Any words were lost as he quickly moved to take one begging nipple in his mouth, his hand finding the other as she moaned beneath him. His teeth tugged on her sensitive flesh and she bucked up into him.
"That's better," he said, "But I want you screaming."
Sarah lost count of the number of times she'd ended up screaming his name in the throes of passion, Jareth barely leaving her any respite before beginning the delicious torture again. She was barely returned to reality as she felt his warm lips on hers, his breath as ragged as hers. She wrapped her trembling arms about him, opening her eyes to meet his, his mismatched gaze wild.
"No more," she begged, "I want you. I need you inside me."
He kissed her gently before giving her a wicked grin, "As my lady commands."
He climbed off the bed and slowly undressed, knowing she was watching him and enjoying every moment. Sarah felt her body stir hotter than before as she watched more and more perfect pale skin fall under the caress of the moonlight. She shifted to the edge of the bed as he tossed away the last of his clothes. She got shakily to her feet, stepping into the span of his arms, his body firm and hard against her softness. He kissed her, exploring her mouth with his tongue, his hands just as eager on her body. Sarah reached down between them, stroking the length of him, hard and heavy in her hand, letting her know she wasn't the only one suffering from his exquisite torture.
"Only you," he whispered softly against her lips, "All I've ever wanted is you."
"I'm yours," she said as he laid her back on the bed once more, his body covering hers.
"Are you ready for this?" he asked, stroking her long dark hair.
Sarah nodded, "No more waiting," she said, shifting so he fitted perfectly between her legs, his hardness poised just beyond her.
"I'll hurt you," he said, clearly at the last of his restraint.
"You won't," she said, "Please."
He kissed her softly before pushing into her. Sarah whimpered at the bit of pain but he kissed away the worst of it, soothing her until he was fully sheathed within her. She'd never felt so full in her life, the tightness teetering between pleasure and pain as she slowly adjusted to him. She heard his laboured breath against her should as he struggled to hold still for her. She moved as best she could beneath him and the pain fled in the wake of the pleasure that shot through her. Jareth groaned, slowly moving above her, the slow, measured rhythm more agonising than anything else. Sarah tipped her hips, wrapping her legs around him and taking him deeper still. She whimpered as he hit something deep inside her that caused her to flutter about him. She threw her head back on the pillows, raking her nails down his back as his pace increased.
She felt the burning pleasure in her once more as he raised himself higher over her, hitting deeper inside her as he snaked a hand between them, stroking her.
"Scream for me Sarah," he said desperately, "Let go and come for me."
She couldn't have resisted the plea if she had wanted to, pleasure burning hot and sweet inside her but she was not alone as she cried him name. She felt him break apart above her, her name ripped from him as he gave in to his own completion.
Breathing hard she took the weight of him, boneless herself as she revelled in the feeling of him still cradled within her. Finally he kissed her gently slipping from her and rolling off her.
"Come here," he said, letting her roll into his arms, "Alright?"
"Better than alright," said Sarah pressing a kiss to the warm skin of his chest, loving the taste she found their, skin, salt and sex, "God why did we wait so long?"
"I'm asking myself the same," he said turning to face her, "You were more than worth it my beauty."
Sarah smiled and kissed him, "I love you."
Jareth returned her smile, "I have something for you, I was going to give it to you downstairs before you disappeared," he said taking her left hand and kissing the back of it.
Sarah watched as he slipped off Lilijana's ring and placed it on her wedding finger, admiring it in the moonlight.
"My bride," he said.
Sarah choked, "You can't give me this," she said, "It means so much to you."
"As do you," said Jareth, "I wanted to give it to you a thousand times but now just feels right. I love you Sarah and I want to world to see how much, this will show them."
"Oh Jareth," she said kissing him, "Thank you, I don't know how to tell you what this means to me."
Jareth rolled them both till she was sat astride him, her eyes widening as she felt him stir beneath her once more.
"We Fae are not so easily spent," he said, "Fancy being up all night?"
Sarah grinned, "Wicked boy."
"Aren't I just?"
xxxx
A/N: Right ladies and gents, I need a holiday because much as I love this fic the schedule is killing me so please expect an update in 3 weeks rather than the usual two. Please wait for me to come back.
PS If you would like a translation of Isis' words send me a PM with a guess and I'll tell you if you're right or not. I will put the translation in my a/n of the next chapter.
Nova x