A/N: I'm back!! Did you miss me. Nothing you might recognise belongs to me and the poem quoted is 'She walks in beauty…' by Lord Byron.

The Owl and the Pussy Cat

The first thing Sarah noticed when she woke was how pleasantly she ached and the second how conspicuously empty the bed was beside her. She opened her eyes and began to stretch before a voice stilled her.

"Don't move," said Jareth, from where he sat in the window to the right of the bed. He had a dog eared sketch book propped on his knee and his fingers were blackened with charcoal, "I'm nearly done."

She watched him as he concentrated on the page, looking up to study her occasionally. His hair was wild and frantic and a smudge of black ran over his cheek where he'd moved a strand of it out of his face. He wore only a long, black silk robe and Sarah couldn't help but admire the lean, bare leg he'd propped on the trunk in front of him.

"What are you doing?" said Sarah though his task was obvious.

Jareth quirked an eyebrow, "Knitting a new scarf for Ignis," he said, "I thought pink would be his colour."

"You're mad," said Sarah softly trying not to move, "My arm's going to sleep."

"I told you to change hands after ninety-nine," he said with a wicked smile, "I'm a confirmed old bachelor, I know these things."

"Pervert," muttered Sarah, "I really need to move."

Jareth sighed like a long suffering artist, "Very well," he said, "I shall have to be content for it to never be a masterpiece but then a talent far greater than mine could still never capture the original."

"Can I see?" asked Sarah as he wiped off his hands on a rag.

Jareth handed her the sketch book, perching on the edge of the bed. Sarah smiled at the drawing, showing her in soft repose amongst the haphazard, rumpled sheets. She could almost have passed for a pre-Raphaelite muse in the charcoal picture, clearly drawn from the heart than from reality.

"It's lovely," she said.

"Well I had ample inspiration," said Jareth taking the book from her hand and setting it on the side table. He kissed her softly, lying atop the sheets as she stayed beneath, "And how does my beloved this morning?"

Sarah reached beneath his robe, stroking the smooth skin of his leg, "I ache in places I never knew I had," she said, "But last night was…"

Jareth smiled as she blushed, "It was a little wasn't it?" he said lacing his fingers into her hair, "And I trust you now know exactly what I feel for you? My Sarah, even fantasy couldn't come close to last night."

Sarah blushed all the deeper, "I'm sure I have plenty to learn."

"Nothing that I won't enjoy teaching," said Jareth, "Or learning with you. I want to learn everything you desire, I am quite resolved to bring you to bliss every night."

"Every night?" said Sarah.

Jareth kissed her softly, "For eternity," he said, "As soon as it is granted. I had meant to request the application be heard last night but perhaps it is something we should talk about first. I do not want to push you into anything you do not want. The application is written but are you sure that you're ready? Once the decision is made in your favour death alone can break it. I love you, I want to marry you but I have been blind to the thoughts that have plagued you and if you need more time…"

"Jareth," said Sarah, "I was frightened and unsure, I was scared I loved you more than I could ever hope for you to love me but after last night I know this is forever, immortality or not. Perhaps its quick, perhaps we're running before we can walk but I want it. Ask for Titania to hear it."

"You're certain?"

"More than I've ever been of anything in my life," said Sarah, her hand leaving his leg to dip below the collar of his robe and finding the pendant fastened around his neck. She traced the shape, from its sharp points to its winding crest, "And I promise from now on I'll tell you whenever I feel low."

"You will have no cause to I hope," said Jareth, "But if required I have no qualms in telling you how wonderful you are every single day."

"So long as you let me tell you," said Sarah, "For all your noise I think you need to hear it now and then too. Jareth, there's something I want to ask you, about Anna."

Jareth's expression grew wary, "Go on?"

"Why don't you both fight harder to live together?"

Jareth sighed, "It's not for want of fight on her part but on mine," he said, "I'm sure Father would release Nana if we pushed hard enough and the alteration could be made to the castle over time."

"Then why?"

Jareth dropped his gaze, tracing an invisible pattern on the coverlet with his fingertip, "As twins we love unconditionally and, coupled with Anna's nature and my passed melancholy, I feared I would always rely on her as a prop. I know what a person I can be and I did not want her spirit tarnished by my presence beside her at all times," he said sadly, "It is I who have put so many blocks on her coming to me."

Sarah stroked his hair, "Oh my love," she said, "You would never have been a burden to her."

"There has always been a darkness in me, especially since I became king," said Jareth, "It took torture and torment for me to realise how fully it held me and your understanding to help me overcome it."

"So what stops you now?" said Sarah.

"I still worry she will grow isolated so far from Avalon."

"With six brothers and their families to fuss over her?" said Sarah, "I wouldn't exactly call that isolation and if you don't want to go to Avalon one of them could always take her if she wanted to visit. It would be nice too, if I could have some female company in the castle, someone to gossip with."

"To plot against me with, more like," said Jareth lacing his fingers with hers, his bracelet twinkling in the sunlight, "It will take some planning but if it pleases you and Anna agrees then I shall do what I can. Perhaps I can persuade her to return with us tomorrow, it will make for a merry party at least and give us all some idea whether we can make things more permanent. Whenever Anna has visited before it has been for no more than a fortnight."

"Well you'll never know unless you try," said Sarah lying back against the pillows and closing her eyes with a sigh, "I'll never make it through the day, it must have been gone three when we get to sleep last night."

"Are you complaining?" said Jareth, "Because I can always…"

"Don't even threaten it," said Sarah reaching up to tug his hair as he laughed, "You know I'll never be able to resist you again now."

"I certainly hope not," said Jareth, leaning down to kiss her, "I would offer you a repeat performance but then we would be late for breakfast and that would raise a few eyebrows."

Sarah grinned wickedly, "But you love creating a drama."

Jareth returned her smile, "And usually I would but Titania is downstairs and I want to give her the application. It wouldn't do for her to think I want you just for one thing," he said, "Which, of course, is the truth, being human your conversation is limited so bedroom sports are your only useful purpose."

Sarah let out a giggling cry before attacking him, the pair of them wrestling playfully in the tangled sheets. She finally pinned, him, sitting astride him as she looked down at him in triumph.

"Are you sure you want to be a good boy?" she said a little breathlessly, all modesty forgotten as the blankets failed to cover her, "Wouldn't you rather start enjoying that teaching you promised me?"

Jareth took hold of her hips, cursing the sheet that was still between them, "And what would you like me to teach you, my young apprentice?"

Sarah smiled and rocked her hips, "The virtues of a quickie."

Jareth groaned, "By the Gods I love you."

xxxx

Sarah giggled as they raced hand in hand down the corridors of the pyramid, the silk ribbon of her dress unravelling at their pace. Jareth quickly swung behind her, pulling her to a halt with it.

"Stop," he said, his voice filled with laughter, "Oh this just won't do, I'd rather we were late than look like we've only just thrown our clothes on."

Sarah flashed him a coquettish look over her shoulder, "We have only just thrown our clothes on," she said as he refastened the bow at her back, the simple forget-me-not dress far more comfortable than a cumbersome ball gown, "And what else would they think we've been doing?"

"Admiring the tapestries," said Jareth with a smile as he came to her side and offered her his arm, walking them far more sedately down to breakfast, "They were quite wonderful tapestries though."

Sarah blushed prettily at the veiled compliment, "I'm sure they could use some improvement," she said shyly.

Jareth pressed a kiss to her temple but said nothing. Rain hammered loudly on the covered glass panes, making them both glad of the warmth of the indoors as the weather appeared to be refusing the offer of respite. They turned a final corner and came to a door stood ajar, the low murmur of polite conversation coming from within. Sarah looked a little apprehensively at the Fae beside her but he just gave her a cheeky wink and patted her hand.

"You have faced the Unseelie Precious," he said, "Do not allow breakfast with Mom and Dad scare you."

"You're teasing me," said Sarah.

"And your grip on my arm has just relaxed ten fold," said Jareth, "Now come on, chin up, stare Isis in the eye and practice being the Goblin Queen. And if Mizumi is there just flash her that pretty ring you're wearing and watch her squirm."

Sarah smirked, "You're wicked," she said, "Cruel thing."

"Please do not tell me you have only just worked that out," he said, clearly still goading her, "I admit I am uncommonly nice to you wench but there I have ulterior motives."

Sarah punched his arm, "Don't call me wench."

Jareth put on his most stoic face, "Ah yes, I forget how you Above-grounders love your slang," he said, "I shall henceforth call you girlfriend."

Sarah broke into peals of laughter at his mimicry of her accent on the final word and barely knew she was walking as he led her into the room. She only realised her surroundings as she heard Osiris' silken accent over the cacophony of their laughter.

"Well you are a merry pair this morning," he said rising from his seat at the large table laden with food fit for twenty times those seated, "Welcome, sit and tell us why the birds sing in the Goblin Kingdom at least this dreary morn."

Sarah blushed as Jareth led them round the table to two spare seats, the Goblin King placing a kiss on his father's cheek as he passed him.

"Never you mind Papa," he said pulling out a chair for Sarah and sitting down himself, "We were merely admiring the tapestries."

"Indeed," said Osiris with a laugh, "I am glad you both found them so pleasing my son."

Jareth laughed as Sarah hid her blushing face behind the fall of her hair, barely even clocking those gathered at the table as she brought her hand up to better shield herself from amused eyes. The move had not been deliberate but Anna's gasp beside her told her what she had inadvertently revealed. She raised her head to see all around the table staring in shock at her hand. Jareth's brother's, save for Horus, wore amused expressions while their wives seemed more than a little taken aback by the sight. Titania smiled happily but it was the look on Mizumi's face that amused Sarah the most. She raised her hand to cover her smile, her ring glittering once more in the low candle light before Anna grabbed it, turning her hand under her gaze.

"Mama's ring," she said, happy tears in her eyes, "Oh Jack…"

Jareth took Sarah's hand from his sister, raising her to her feet once more and deliberately pressing a kiss to her left hand.

"It seems our secret is out," he said, his smiled letting everyone know that there was never any intention of secrecy, "This wonderful, beautiful woman has agreed to be my bride and we would ask you to consider an application, Your Majesty, for Sarah's immortality."

Titania smiled as Jareth reached into his pocket and pulled out an elegantly sealed letter, handing it to her, "It will have my full attention the moment I return to the palace," she said, getting to her feet and hurrying round the large table to embrace him, "Oh my Ulula, I never though I would see the day."

Osiris joined the pair, taking Sarah's hand and tracing the golden band with a sad smile, "I am glad to see I worn as intended once more," he said, "Especially when its wearer brings such joy to the eyes of my melancholy son. I hope I shan't have to wait too long before I may call you daughter."

"The summer," said Sarah, happy tears in her eyes as Jareth's brothers joined the official congratulations. Only Isis, Mizumi and Horus remained unmoved by the sight, Isis glaring daggers at her husband and Horus staring moodily at his plate while Mizumi tried to keep an indifferent mask as the other guests fussed and fawned over the newly engaged pair.

Isis' voice finally cut through the happy atmosphere as she slammed her fork down on the table, "Osiris!" she said, "Anubis! This is hardly behaviour for the breakfast table."

"Traditions ar there to be broken Mother," said Anubis before hugging Sarah tightly, "And what a way to break one."

Isis bristled, "You forget your place my son."

"I am at my brother's side on the day of his betrothal," said Anubis, "I know my place Mother. Will you not congratulate your son?"

"He's none of mine," said Isis vehemently.

Anubis went to speak but Jareth laid a hand on his arm.

"Peace, no fights this morning," he said, "Not for me."

"And suddenly you are the peacemaker Jareth?" said Mizumi, getting to her feet, "This war has made you weak."

Jareth smiled as though she had paid him a compliment, "My thanks for your insight into my character My Lady," he said, "I fear without your guidance I would be quite lost."

It was Osiris who broke first, failing to mask a laugh behind his hand, Khepri soon falling into mirth beside him. Jareth smirked as his brothers, their wives and his sister gave in to laughter, deliberately wrapping an arm tighter around his betrothed as he watched Mizumi's cheeks colour with embarrassment and rage.

The Fae queen got to her feet, "Lady Isis, please excuse me," she said, turning to leave.

"No retort Zuu?" said Jareth, "Such a shame, it seems this war has made you weak."

"Osiris!" snapped Isis, looking pointedly at her husband but he said nothing as Mizumi hastily left the room.

Isis glowered and got to her feet, dragging Horus to his, "We shall continue our breakfast somewhere more civilised," she said, "Hathor come!"

Horus' silently obedient wife hurriedly followed the retreating pair, Isis slamming the door defiantly behind her. Osiris smiled all the wider, breathing dramatically as though he'd been drowning moments before.

"Now this is peace. I forgot what meal times were like with you home Aten," he said, "We are a far happier party now, do you not agree Titania?"

"You're a wicked soul Osiris," she said, "Anubis; you shall lose certain favour should you remain with the party now."

"That maybe," said Anubis, looking more than amused at being the triumphant side of the argument for once, "But I have learnt my share of lessons these passed weeks."

Titania smiled, "That you have," she said, "Now then, are we to let this breakfast go to waste? I cannot tarry long; Mab is expecting me back at the castle before noon."

Soon they had all settled once more, the room far cheerier amongst the gathered friends than it had been. Sarah happily talked of dresses and flower arrangements with the women who were soon to be her sisters-in-law while Jareth fended off the playful innuendos from his brothers. Only two remained quiet amongst them, Anna appearing shy before the crowd while Osiris watched his youngest son in silent contemplation. Jareth noticed his stare after a while and questioned him only to receive a non-committal response and have the subject changed.

Gradually people left the room, the weather nullifying many outdoor pursuits but all determined to find something to do. Titania bid them all a fond farewell, preferring the intimacy of a quiet goodbye over a more formal affair. Osiris offered to show her out, leaving Jareth, Sarah and Ann alone in the room.

Jareth chucked a grape at his sister as soon as the door closed behind his father, "What's up with you sulky knickers?" he said, "You've not said two words together this whole morning."

"Well it's hard to when you're in the room," snapped Anna before she blushed and dropped her gaze, "Sorry Jack."

Concern replaced all other emotions on Jareth's face as he left his chair to kneel beside his sister, "What's wrong?" he said laying a comforting hand on her arm. Anastasia flinched from his touch and his gaze darkened, "Anne?"

She looked up at him with tear filled eyes and popped the buttons of her lace cuff. Rolling the sleeve back she revealed the deep blue-black bruising that grew from her wrist and up her arm, disappearing once more beneath her sleeve at her elbow.

"What happened to you?" said Jareth, gently turning her arm to better examine it.

"My chair tipped," said Anna, "It taxes my magic too much and I am too ashamed to ask Papa, can you fix it?"

"Of course I can fix it," said Jareth, "But how did you tip your chair, you're always so careful?"

Anna lowered her eyes to her lap, "A moment of carelessness."

Jareth frowned, "Either you were sampling the punch last night or you are not telling me the truth," he said, "Anastasia look at me."

Anna kept her eyes lowered until Jareth took hold of her chin and turned her face to his.

"Come no, no secrets," he said gently, "Tell me Anne."

Anna looked up at him, "Don't get mad," she said softly, "Promise me you won't get mad."

"Now you're worrying me," said Jareth as Sarah left her seat to crouch beside him, "But whatever you tell me I promise to hold my temper."

"Mizumi…"

"What?"

"After she said those dreadful things to Sarah and she ran off, Mizumi went to go after here. I grabbed hold of her but she was too strong and…"

Anna had no time to finish as Jareth got to his feet, his expression terrifying.

"Jack please," begged his sister, "You promised!"

Jareth said nothing; he simply summoned a crystal and peered into it before tossing it at his feet disappearing in a shower of lightning and glitter.

"Oh God!" said Anna, "Oh Ra, please don't let him do anything stupid."

xxxx

Jareth didn't wait to knock or announce his presence, merely threw out a hand and let the rage in his magic swing the heavy lacquered door back on its hinges.

"I have kept my silence long enough but no more," he said, "When I leave tomorrow Anna comes with me and I will broker no argument."

Osiris got to his feet, shock soon fading to anger at his son's outburst, "Your temper does you no credit Aten," he said, "What is the meaning of this intrusion?"

Jareth turned from his father in an attempt to rein his temper, "She is in your care and yet this morning I find my sister injured by one of your party guests," he said, "I had thought to ask you but now I must insist, if Anna cannot be protected here then I need to take her where she can be, your blessing or no."

"Aten you have lost me," said Osiris, "Your sister was fine this morning."

"She was too frightened to tell anyone," said Jareth, "She could only come to me."

"If someone has hurt her then tell me who and I will see them dealt with."

Jareth's fist clenched at his side, "Mizumi. After telling Sarah all number of vile things that near cost me my bride she pulled Anna out of her chair. She's only lucky her arm isn't broken," he said, "What will you do now Papa? Expose her? Reveal the cruelty of the Queen of the Moraine or will you do nothing again? She is one of Isis' friends, a favourite of Oberon and for that you will do nothing. It seems you fail to act whenever one of your bastards is harmed."

"By Ra, Aten! I think of none of you so lowly. You are all my dear children and I care greatly whenever you are injured or in pain," said Osiris.

"Like you cared when Isis did this to me," said Jareth gesturing to his damaged eye, "You believed her lies over me."

Osiris crossed to him and laid his hands on his shoulders but refrained from trying to turn him, "I know who spoke true but politics…"

"Hang politics! I was a child!"

"And your mother a mortal gypsy I was unwed to," said Osiris, "It was Mab's grace than allowed me to keep you and I was not about to risk you by angering the sister of her heir. I was unable to act."

"And now?"

"And now, if Bastet…"

"Anastasia," said Jareth, "Her name is Anastasia."

"If Anastasia, my Bastet, is injured by Mizumi's hand then I will act but quietly. Not all is achieved by flame and thunder my son. Have you done anything? Said anything to anyone of this?"

Jareth shook his head, "No sir, I came straight to you."

"You have not gone to Mizumi?"

"Anna begged me not to," said Jareth, "And snake that she is, I don't strike women."

"Let me look at you," said Osiris, Jareth turning willingly to face him, "You are quite grown my son. Never before would you have sought me before pursuing your quarry, a request from your twin or no. It is a pleasing metamorphosis. Leave Mizumi to me, say nothing to those who don't yet know and trust your old man."

Jareth couldn't help the smile that touched his lips, "Just promise me you won't brush this under the carpet."

"Upon your darling mother's soul," said Osiris, "And now to this business of Anna living with you. Are you in earnest or was your outburst a flare of the Jareth-dramas?"

"I want her with me. I have since I left but I feared my life would taint hers. Now I am more settled and I will be nice for Sarah to have a companion," said Jareth, "I know you have refused before and you had reason enough to but I am changed, as you said, and if you will release Nanny I would give my twin all the love and attention she could ever need to thrive in the Underground. Please will you consider it?"

Osiris regarded him for a moment, before seeming to speak to himself, "Yes it may do well to have you together," he said, noticing his son before him once more, "Will you allow me time to think on it? I will give you my answer by dinner."

Jareth nodded, "Of course," he said, "If I am honest I have not yet fully discussed this with Anna."

"Impetuous as ever my wild boy," said Osiris pressing a kiss to his forehead, "Now get along with you and keep from anymore fireworks. There's more than one way to skin a dragon."

"I will leave it to you," said Jareth, "Thank you."

Osiris nodded as Jareth turned to the door, "Jack," he said seeing his soon stiffen in surprise at the name, "You'd have made her proud mi fili."

Jareth kept his eyes on the door, "I have far to go yet but I hope so," he said, "I have much to arrange."

"Truly you are quite grown," said Osiris as Jareth pulled the door shut behind him, "As was said of you, seventh son."

xxxx

Jareth strode the ancient corridors he had crept down as a youth to avoid Isis' wrath. He thought of the hiding places he had often found when she had been in a fit of temper and smiled as an idea came to him. He deviated from his path, descending instead into the kitchens below.

The great kitchens were warm but mostly empty, the staff at other chores, but the thump of dough on a wooden table top told him the person he sought was still within. He stepped into the baker's room, the smell of hot fresh bread enough to tempt him further.

"Did you not have enough at breakfast?" said Nanny, slamming the beaten dough into the pan, "Down here to forage? Sure you must store it in them long, skinny legs of yours. You were the same when you were a lad."

"I'm not here for more breakfast Nana," said Jareth hopping up onto the bench as he had always done as a boy, "Can't I just have come to see my favourite Banshee?"

"You never go anywhere without reason," said Nanny, "What are you after?"

Jareth smiled wickedly, "Attic picnic?"

Nanny turned to him in surprise, "Have you reverted to childhood? I haven't made you one of those since you were tiny."

"Indulge me, Nana," said Jareth, "Its too wile to go outside and I'm damned if I'm playing nice to the Wicked Witch all day unless you have a spare house you don't mind gaining an Isis shaped imprint."

"You shouldn't speak such a way," said Nana, "And you can't be thinking of going up in that dusty old place."

"I'll clean it up in five seconds."

Nanny plucked a hot roll from the tray and threw it to him, Jareth having to juggle it from hand to hand till it cooled.

"You never said that when I asked you to clean your room," she said, wiping her hands on her apron before crossing to the pantry.

"That's because you never let me use magic," said Jareth, "Please Nana, for me? If you leave it to me all Sarah and Anna will have for lunch are lychee and pine nuts."

Nanny looked back around the pantry door and Jareth flashed her a smile.

"You know that look never works with me young prince," said Nanny trying to hide a smile of her own.

"I love you Nanny Shee," said Jareth.

Nanny huffed and bustled back into the pantry as Jareth laughed.

"You know you're wonderful Nana," he said.

"You've lost none of your charm," said Nanny, coming back into the room, laden with treats, "I've got a loaf near done in the oven you can have and I'm due a cup of tea now. You got time for an old lady?"

"For you, my young Nana, always," said Jareth.

"Biscuits are in the cupboard Mister Charm," said Nana, settling in a chair by the hearth and swinging a kettle over the flames, "Come sit with me and tell me more of this pretty young girl of yours…and you can keep the particulars Jareth-Aten. I'm too old to be hearing all that."

Jareth laughed, "And if I told you, Missus Gossip, it would be round the pyramid before that kettle sings."

xxxx

Sarah paced the length of the large drawing room once more, worrying her nail between her teeth. She glanced over to Anna who sat embroidering by the large slanted window, amazed by the Fae's serenity. She looked back over to the half open door and sighed when she saw no figure standing there.

"Sarah, be you in possession of some of my brother's magic or no, your sighs alone shan't conjure him," said Anna, setting her needlework in her lap.

"How can you be so calm after he left in such a rage?" said Sarah.

"Because I have known my brother for sixteen hundred years," said Anna, "There are no screams or curses echoing down the hall. If he had confronted Mizumi we'd know. He's probably shape-shifted and gone for a fly; he'll be back when he's ready."

Sarah sighed again and sat down in the chair opposite, "You're right," she said, "Hearing you talk reminds me how much I still need to learn about him."

"Only time will give you such knowledge," said Anna with a smile, "Not cold feet I hope?"

Sarah shook her head, "Of course not," she said twisting the gold band on her finger.

"I should hope not," said Jareth leaning on the door frame.

"And where do you think you've been," said Anna as Sarah left her seat for Jareth's open arms.

"With Dad and Nana," said Jareth, "Have you two been inventing dramas of your own?"

Sarah swatted his shoulder, "With the mood you went off in can you blame us?"

Jareth laughed, "I am sorry I did not provide more entertainment my love," he said, "I did however win us a fine lunch for later on."

"So you were bothering Nana for food downstairs," said Anna, "You have not changed; I should have though to look for you there."

Jareth picked up a basket from behind the door and crossed the room to his sister. He sat Sarah down once more before kneeling beside his sister. He unfastened her sleeve and rolled it up as far as it would go, exposing her injury. He took gentle hold of her wrist and closed his eyes. He ran his hand upwards, the bruising fading beneath his touch until it had disappeared entirely. Jareth opened his eyes and righted his sister's sleeve.

"Better?" he asked.

Anna nodded, "Thank you," she said rolling her wrist, "I can barely feel it."

"Then you should be up for an adventure," said Jareth, "But first I have news."

"News?" said Anna.

"Well, Sarah and I were discussing living arrangements this morning and we came to an agreement which Papa is willing to consider," said Jareth lacing his fingers with his sister, "By tonight we will know whether Father gives his permission for you and Nana to live with me and Sarah, in the Goblin City."

"Oh Jack!" cried Anna, throwing his arms around him, "You mean it?"

"With all my heart," said Jareth.

Anna pulled back from him and gazed at the figure in the chair across from her, "Are you happy with this Sarah?"

Sarah nodded, "I don't know how you two function separated," she said, "I'm more than happy Anna, I have always wanted a sister."

"Me too," said Anna, before looking quizzically at her brother, "Now what's this about an adventure."

Jareth pointed upwards and smiled, "As we all talk of brothers and sisters, should we let Sarah in on our secret do you think?"

"I think she can be trusted," said Anna, "Will you come away with us little mortal?"

Sarah giggled, "Sounds intriguing," she said, "Where are we off to?"

"You'll see," said Jareth leading them both to the door.

They had soon ventured up into the highest reaches of the pyramid, Sarah still amazed each time Anna used her magic to float up the stairs. The last set of stairs however were more like a ladder and Jareth set the basket at its base before helping Anna out of her chair, deftly lifting her onto his back. He climbed the ladder, disappearing into the darkness above before returning without his twin. He picked up the basket and turned to Sarah.

"Follow me up," he said, "Watch you feet before I get some lights lit."

"Ok," said Sarah as she followed him up the stairs. She could barely see an inch in front of her and was glad when she saw the glitter of one, then two crystals form in Jareth's hand. They floated into the room, lighting gradually until they settled into the wall sconces, revealing the dusty attic room that was a testimony to childhood. Jareth waved a hand and the dust spiralled up from every surface and flew out through the window that cracked open briefly with another wave of his hand.

He went to a pile of old mattresses and dragged one over to the foot of a wicker chair. He had soon helped Anna intro the chair, sitting Sarah beside him on the matting.

"The best place in the world to avoid Isis," he said, "We used to spend hours up here as children, practicing our magic."

"I remember it being a lot bigger," said Anna.

"I used to have a corner in the basement back home," said Sarah picking up a ragged marionette whose strings had long since snapped, "I used it to have somewhere quiet to read."

"It was hardly ever quiet in here," said Anna, "He was always blowing things up until he got a rein on his crystals."

Sarah laughed, "I bet he was," she said.

"You laugh little lady," said Jareth, "But it's your turn to learn now."

"My turn?" said Sarah.

"Time for you to learn to use that magic of yours," said Anna, "If you want to."

Sarah smiled, "Of course I do," she said.

Jareth smiled, "Then form a crystal my young apprentice," he said, "And we'll begin."

xxxx

They spent many hours laughing at Sarah's attempts with magic, pausing to share the food Nanny had packed and stories of their youth. Good food and half a bottle of wine had Anna dozing in her chair and soon after she was fast asleep, the fatigue of her worrisome night slowly erasing. Jareth and Sarah moved over to beneath the slanted window, the rain hammering down outside little bother to them.

Jareth had pulled a small chest from beneath a pile of ancient, hand written newspapers full of childish stories. Inside lay all that they had had when Osiris had rescued them. Sarah had marvelled at the tiny clothes, worn and simple that seemed a world away even from Jareth's most subdued clothes. A particular multi coloured scarf, set with a dozen hanging gold discs, seemed the most precious of items to Jareth and Sarah wasn't at all surprised when he set it aside from the rest of the items when he packed them away.

They talked quietly of their return home, Jareth letting her know how between leaving his father and joining Nanny he had sent one of the servants to purchase a carriage for the journey, negating the needs for any of them to ride. Soon though the rhythm of the rain was lulling them both and Sarah leaned back against the firm body behind her as though it were a pillow.

"Do you remember the sonnet I sent you the night you showed me your tattoo?" said Jareth running her hair through his fingers, "I learned it up here."

Sarah nodded, "I'm keeping it forever," she said, "I can imagine you sat up here pawing over the First Folio."

"I wasn't limited to the Bard alone you know."

"Oh?"

Jareth pressed a kiss to her hair, "She walks in beauty, like the night- Of cloudless climes and starry skies; And all that's best of dark and bright- Meet in her aspect and her eyes: Thus mellow'd to that tender light- Which heaven to gaudy day denies…"

A cough cut him short and they both looked up to see Osiris climb into the attic, "Forgive me if I intrude," he said, "Lady Sarah if I might, I would like to borrow my young ones for a time."

"Of course," said Sarah, Jareth helping her to her feet as Osiris bent over Anna's sleeping form.

"Awake now Bassey," he said kissing her forehead, "I must speak with you."

Anna blinked before smiling up at her father, "Hello Papa," she said, "How long was I sleeping?"

"Not long," said Jareth, "What do you need us for Dad?"

Osiris lifted Anna out of her chair, "A subject we'd best discuss in my study," he said, "Come my Aten, we have much to talk about."

Jareth and Sarah followed Osiris back down to the base of the building but when they came to his study he turned to them and beckoned Jareth and Anna alone to follow him.

"Forgive me my dear," he said to Sarah, "But what I have to say is presently for my children alone."

Sarah nodded and stepped back without argument.

"Wait here," said Jareth kissing her quickly before following his father and sister into the study, the door closing behind him.

Sarah nearly jumped out of her skin as a large, strong hand landed on her shoulder. She turned to see Anubis behind her and smiled, "You frightened the life out of me Nu," she said.

"Faces like his tend to," said Khepri at her back, "Left out in the cold, little sister?"

"Osiris wanted to speak to Jareth and Anna alone."

"Oh we know," said Anubis with a grin.

Sarah regarded him quizzically, "Do you know what's going on in there?"

He nodded, "But it's a big secret."

"Mean old thing," said Sarah.

"Hush the pair of you," said Khepri, his ear pressed to the door, "I can't hear a thing Papa's saying."

"Aren't you a little old to be eavesdropping Khepri-Amun?" said Anubis, folding his arms across his chest, "Forgive my brother Sarah, he has the manners of a boar."

"Hang manners," said Khepri, "I want to hear the scream when he tells dear Aten and Bassey the news."

Sarah frowned, "What's with this Bassey thing?" she asked, "I heard Osiris call Anna that upstairs."

"Bassey," said Khepri, "Short for Bastet. It isn't just Osiris' sons who are worshipped as deities by the ancients. Our sister is a figure as important as any of us."

"Bastet," said Sarah, "I don't think I've heard of her."

"You've seen her image though," said Anubis, "Think four paws, a tail and whiskers."

"The black cat?" said Sarah, "Wow."

Further conversation was halted as the door flew open and Jareth shot passed, his face grim.

"Aten wait!" called Osiris appearing in the doorway, sighing as Jareth slammed another door down the corridor, "Damn."

Sarah didn't wait to ask what had occurred, merely followed the path Jareth had taken. She entered the main entrance hall and stopped, staring at the rain beyond the open main door. She contemplated returning to her room for a coat but instead ran out after him, soaked before she'd even gone five feet out of the door. She peered out into the rain but saw nothing and was about to turn back to the house when something caught the corner of her eyes. She hurried to the small coppice of trees to the right of the pyramid, glad of the shelter its boughs offered as she stepped up to the figure that leaned against one of the trunks.

"Jareth?" she said, reaching for his hand, "Tell me what's wrong? Did you dad refuse to let Anna leave with you?"

"Oh he agreed to that whole heartedly," he said bitterly.

"Than what's the matter?" said Sarah pushing his hair back from his face, "That's what you wanted."

"I did not want what he offered with it though," said Jareth, "He wants to rename his heirs; he has already spoken to all my brothers bar Horus and they have agreed. He wants to train Anna and I alone so that we may succeed him as overseers of the Underground."

Sarah smiled, "But Jareth that's wonderful."

"No its not!" he cried, "I cannot be trusted, not with that much power."

"Why ever not?" said Sarah.

Jareth gave her a dark look, "Do you actually listen to a word I ever say?" he said before dropping his gaze, "Sorry, I shouldn't be taking this out on you."

"It's alright," she said, "And you're talking about what happened with Akhen aren't you?"

Jareth nodded, "As Goblin King my power is contained, controlled with something between me and the madness of before," he said, "As overseer…Sarah I'd be dangerous."

"You were a boy back then," said Sarah, "You've grown wiser since then."

"You should listen to your betrothed my son," said Osiris stepping beneath the heavy boughs, "You learned from your mistakes and you have become worthy of your birth right."

"It's not my birth right," said Jareth, "Choose Anubis or Horus if you wish for someone to take over."

"Both failed me in choosing Oberon over you," said Osiris, "Khepri and Khonsu are too flighty to rule together, Amadeus has no desire for power and Dimitry…well, he's Dimitry. You are strong Jareth, your time away has built your character not broken it. I understand your fears, I have worries of my own but that is why your sister will be at your side. Her spirit will temper yours and you will soon have a wife at your side. I believe in you my youngest, I believe you can achieve this. I intend to rule for ten more years, train you and teach you and when I step down I will not disappear from sight again. I want you to take this path Jareth, I believe you can."

"If I fail you again…"

"You shan't," said Osiris, "Now come inside and get dry, we have much to discuss. Will you take your place at my side?"

Jareth looked from his father to his betrothed, "Sarah?"

"You can do this," she said.

Jareth casted his eyes to the floor for a moment before looking back to his father, "Alright, I accept. I'll try."

"I know you will make me proud of you," said Osiris before looking up at the rain, "Now let us get inside before we all drown."

"We'll follow on," said Jareth.

Osiris nodded and turned back to the house. Sarah watched him go before turning back to Jareth.

"You ok?" she said.

"I'm fine," he said, "Just…"

"I know."

"This won't be a walk in the park by any means."

"Jareth," said Sarah, "This is you we're talking about. I expect nothing less than three dramas a week and at least one catastrophe a month."

Jareth laughed, "I fear how well you know me," he said, "If I falter on this path I wish for you to guide me."

"I'll try," she said running her fingers through his hair before resting her hand over his soaked shirt, the flimsy material translucent and clinging to his slim frame, "I'll be here even if all you want to do is scream."

Jareth leaned down to kiss her, "I prefer making you scream," he said.

Sarah forgot the rain around them as he kissed her once more.

xxxx

Dinner that night consisted solely of the family and proved to be the setting Osiris chose to announce his nearly decided succession. Anubis and Khepri were the only two to know the full extent of it, having sat with Anna, Jareth and Sarah through the afternoon's talks, and watched the proceedings with interest. Khonsu, Dimitry and Amadeus all accepted the decision happily, surprised by their Father's speed in implementing the choice he had told them of only that morning, but offering their support to their brother and sister in full.

Any other response though fell short of Isis' tirade. Even Puck in solo combat came nowhere near the terror Sarah felt as Isis flew into a passion, cursing her husband and his children, vowing revenge, murder and damnation. If Sarah hadn't been so close to the scene she would have laughed but instead she clung to Jareth for dear life, her face pressed into his shoulder as the storm raged.

Horus sat silently throughout until he was dragged to his feet by his mother, the Fae-queen demanding he defend his position. He instead kept his head lowered and spoke quietly, "But Father is right. I sold the Underground to Oberon fully aware of his allegiance to the Shadow," he said, "I allowed him to imprison and torture my half-brother and stood against my own people. Aten fought for us all. Father's decision is right."

The quietly spoken words altered the dynamic of the room at once, the once alienated brother aligning himself once more with his brothers and leaving Isis alone in her opposition. Sarah looked on as Horus crossed to Anubis, the younger of the two placing an arm around his shoulders but saying nothing.

"A little lonely in your opposition, my wife," said Osiris, "The rule of the Underground is mine to pass on to whom-so-ever I choose. Aten may be young but he of all our sons has the strength, with his sister beside him, to rule fairly and justly. There is hope for Horus' character though it seems, he has seen your error."

"You think that mortal brat can rule the Underground?" said Isis coldly, "That son of a drab! Well I shall pray for him Osiris, I will pray for Ra to damn him, I will pray he suffers and perishes and burns in hell as his witch of a mother burned. When my brother returns to power…"

"Your brother, madam, nearly caused the fall of Avalon," said Osiris, "He shall not return. Too long have you used your position and power to keep me silent but no more. As we speak my most trusted acquaintances are learning of your actions towards my children, and those of your dear friend. Do not think I have no idea of what you had planned with Mizumi had Jareth married her. Your power is lost my lady wife, as is any spark of affection I ever felt for you. When I have completed my work I intend to live in the Underground, keep this dark palace if you will, I have no want for it."

"May you burn with him," said Isis as she turned from the room, "I go to my Father's, I shan't spend another night under the same roof as a mad man."

Even Jareth was struck dumb as the door shut behind his step-mother and he barely registered as Osiris hugged him firmly.

"There my boy," he said, "I told you to trust your old man."

"She's right," he said, his voice bordering on laughter, "You are mad."

"Utterly barmy," said Osiris, "Now who's for dessert? Sit, sit, the drama is over."

The party that followed Isis' departure was a far less formal affair than the ball of the night before, both Horus and Anubis horrified as Osiris told them of the litany of abuses Isis had visited on all the children beneath them. Jareth soon begged his father's silence in favour of happier subjects though and as they wine flowed so did the laughter. Horus did not instantly fall to friendship with Jareth as Anubis had but there was no battle to fuse them and all cold see the small thaw that had taken to the ice between them.

After several hours they all began to slowly retire and Sarah was glad when Jareth finally led her upstairs, closing the bedroom door against the world outside. They had soon changed from their clothes of the day and Sarah lounged against his chest as they lay side by side on the bed, lost in the fire light. Sarah looked up at him as he pressed a kiss to her hair.

"What time are we leaving tomorrow?" she asked.

"Whenever we're ready," said Jareth, "So much has changed in so few days, dramatically so."

"I know," said Sarah.

"I have my Kingdom back, my family, Avalon is safe and I have a future I never thought of but one thing remains undone," he said, "One thing I…we have yet to put right."

"What?" said Sarah as he got to his feet and tugged her to hers.

Jareth held out both his hands, two crystals forming in his palm, "The right, revenge," he said, "The left, redemption. Choose?"

"I don't understand," said Sarah.

"Follow your heart," said Jareth.

Sarah looked up at him then reached for the crystal in his left hand. Jareth smiled, the other crystal disappearing as he took her hand, and they both disappeared.

It wasn't much later when Jareth left in Hoggle's charge a man too terrified to even speak, thirteen hours away from a new life that Jareth hoped would be better than his last.

"Hoggle," said Jareth as both he and the woman who had wished the man away and refused to try the Labyrinth for him, began to fade from view, "His name's Brett, make sure he gets something better when he becomes a goblin."

Hoggle nodded as his King and his best friend disappeared back to Avalon, the power of the summons having faded.

xxxx