The night throbbed to the rhythm of goatskin drums and bone clappers. Birch
flutes joined in adding a lighter, teasing play, all combining in a robust,
joyful tune that reverberated to the star-draped sky and the swollen moon
hanging low on the horizon.
Goblins, Fae, and elves of all ages, milled about, their faces aglow with excitement. Cooks swirled around the fires, working frantically. Servants, scrambled to finish setting up all the extra tables, enough for a crowd far too large to be accommodated even in the largest room of the castle.
Jareth looked around slowly. What he saw pleased him greatly. For a wedding feast prepared in a matter of hours instead of the weeks that were normally required, he could find no fault.
Absently, he rubbed his jaw, caught himself doing so and grimaced. She hadn't actually bruised him; he'd checked as he changed his attire to something more befitting the occasion. But there was no denying that Sarah had a surprisingly solid punch when she was riled.
With hindsight, he supposed that as marriage proposals went, his had left something to be desired. Promising to kidnap her little brother and lay charges punishably by death if she didn't become his wife probably wasn't the best way to win Sarah's heart. But it was the only way to efficiently end this conflict and ensure everyone's safety, especially hers. He needed her obedience, and since he was being honest, he wanted her. He always had.
Tonight she would be his. The formidable self control he had exercised over the past 11 years would no longer be needed. He would sate himself in the beautiful woman. By morning, he would be himself again, in total control.
That didn't mean he wouldn't value her and treat her kindly, only that he would not feel the hot, dazed hunger she triggered in him. He would be himself again.
But first there was a wedding to get through.
"Nervous?" Will asked as he emerged from the castle behind Jareth. He grinned challengingly, "If you're not feeling up to it, my friend, I'd be happy to...."
"Exactly how eager are you to dine in the Summerlands this night?" Jareth asked pleasantly.
Will laughed and raised his hands in mock surrender. "Thanks, but I'll pass. The lady is yours and welcome to her." He glanced at Jareth's jaw and smiled broadly. "Spirited. Isn't that what you once called her?"
Jareth flushed slightly. Will noticed too much. "She will learn," he said with utter confidence.
"Well then," Will replied, "there's no reason to delay."
Together they walked into the large open area where the crowd had assembled. They were seen almost at once and a great cheer went up. People pressed forward to greet their King and his friend, both warriors of great renown, and to offer their congratulations to Jareth on this happy occasion.
In the midst of much ribald jest, Jareth kept an eye on the castle doors. Where was she? He was about to fetch her when the doors swung open and Sarah emerged. He couldn't be absolutely sure but he thought she had some help from her maid, who appeared to give her a little start.
Her indigo blue gown was cut low in the front, affording him a tantalizing amount of cleavage to appreciate. A halo of flowers had been added to her hair which was styled as it had been in the ballroom. Around her neck was a golden chain and pendant. It matched his pendant identically except in size. More than anything else, the pendant was an unmistakable symbol of his possession. Sarah certainly understood its purpose, for her fingers closed around the golden metal and even as he watched, she tugged at it angrily.
Jareth grinned. He couldn't help it, her spirit pleased him. His patience suddenly gone, and determined that this not take a moment more than absolutely necessary, he strode through the crowd and met Sarah before she could take more than a few steps from the castle.
She saw him coming and stopped abruptly. Her breath caught. His tall elegant frame was dressed far more luxuriously than she had ever seen him, in a jacket of rich black silk fitted closely over his slim but well muscled body, and tight trousers of soft black leather. A white shirt, peaked through the open neck. His hair was framing his fine-boned, handsome Fae features, and around his throat he wore a larger version of the pendant her fingers were worrying. His gaze moved slowly over her face. She recognized the tender possessiveness in his eyes. Finger of heat flickered along her nerves, pooling in her core. Everything about Jareth mesmerized her. Why did he have to look so utterly masculine? His tall frame was well muscled, hard and look so good. She wondered if her reaction to him showed? His answering smile and arched eyebrow confirmed her suspicions.
Determinedly, she nodded and held out her hand. His own closed around it with gentleness that surprised her. She was drawn with him into the crowd.
At the center of the large open area stood a tree. It was very old with gnarled branches that stretched out as though in a loving embrace. Before it stood the wise man and his hat. He was simply dressed and smiled as Sarah and Jareth approached. "Hello again young woman. Your Majesty."
The people gathered along the perimeter of a stone circle surrounding the tree. " The Wiseman's low baritone abruptly caught Sarah's attention. "Let the four directions be honored that power and radiance might enter our circle for the good of all beings."
A female elf dressed in dark green came forward into the circle from behind the Wiseman. " With the blessing of the deep and fruitful earth, we call upon the powers of the North." She stated softly, extending her arms towards the couple. A green flame appeared at her feet, floating up to engulf her body. She appeared unhurt to Sarah's startled regard.
A goblin stepped towards them, and Sarah recognized him as the one who had lead the army against her 11 years ago. "With the blessing of the inner fire of the sun, we call upon the powers of the South." Red flames engulfed his body increasing the visibility of the circle.
Sarah heard another approach behind her and noted the visible cool blue light reflected on Jareth's face. He appeared pleased, an unsettling warmth in his eyes as he watched her. "With the blessing of the sacred waters of the pool, we call upon the powers of the West." called a familiar voice.
Sarah turned to look behind her and tears sprung to her eyes. Hoggle stood there, engulfed in blue light, his face aglow with happiness. She smiled, blinking back tears and nodding to him. She turned back to Jareth and saw the pleasure and that rare softness in his smile.
A small fairy floated into the circle, fluttering it's wings to hold it's position. Her little soft voice was like a tiny bell. "With the blessing of the clear pure air, we call upon the powers of the East." She was momentarily engulfed in white light.
The Wiseman nodded to all 4 people. "May the harmony of our circle be complete. We stand upon this Holy Earth and in the Face of Heaven to witness the Sacred Rite of Marriage between Our King and Lady Sarah. Just as we come together as family and friends so we ask for the Greater Powers to be present here within our Circle. May this Sacred Union be filled with their blessed presence."
He continued looking at his King. "I invoke the God of Love whose name is Aengus mac Og to be present in this Sacred Place. In his name is Love declared."
The old wizard turned to Sarah, who was amazed that he was still awake. "I invoke the Goddess of the Bright Flame whose name is Brigid to be present in this Sacred Place. In Her name is Peace declared."
He turned to Jareth and smiled, "Take the hand of your love in yours." The King gently accepted Sarah's left hand and held it close to his heart. "Please state your vows My Lord."
Tenderness filled the King's handsome face as he reached for her hand and drew it to his heart. As he spoke, she felt herself falling into his gaze, into him, a part of him where she was warm and safe. His voice was soft and sexy, whispering seduction over her nerves, lighting fires in her blood. "By seed and root, by bud and stem, by leaf and flower and fruit, by life and by love, in the name of the Lord and Lady, I take thee to my hand, my heart and my spirit, at the setting of the sun and the rising of the stars. Nor shall death part us, for in the ripeness of time we shall meet, and know, and remember, and love again. Flesh of thy flesh, bone of thy bone, I here, thou there, yet both as one."
Tendrils of a warm, loving awareness filled her mind, brushing her thoughts, filling the emptiness within her soul. She wasn't sure how, but somehow the vow had bound them deeper than mere words. She knew it had because she felt different. Felt whole.
Turning to Sarah, the Wiseman nodded. "Take the hand of your love in yours."
She drew his ungloved hand to her heart as she had seen him do. His smooth skin warmed her trembling fingers, steadied her frazzled nerves. His eyes were filled with warmth and tenderness as she recited her vow to him. " By seed and root, by bud and stem, by leaf and flower and fruit, by life and by love, in the name of the Lord and Lady, I take thee to my hand, my heart and my spirit, at the setting of the sun and the rising of the stars. Nor shall death part us, for in the ripeness of time we shall meet, and know, and remember, and love again. Flesh of thy flesh, bone of thy bone, I here, thou there, yet both as one."
The awareness she had come to recognize as his presence, washed over her again. Jareth had momentarily closed his eyes, his face taking on a blissful warmth. When he opened his eyes they held a deep tenderness edged with raw desire. Belatedly, she realized that however his vow had bound her to him, hers had done the same to him.
"As the Sun and Moon bring light to the land do you Jareth and Sarah vow to bring the light of love and joy to the union? Do you vow to honor each other as you honor which you hold most sacred? Do you vow to maintain these vows in freedom, for as long as love shall last?" The Wiseman asked.
Not releasing the others eyes they replied softly in unison. "We do."
Jareth gently caressed her fingers. "I give you this ring as a symbol of my love for you. Let it remind you always, as it circles your finger, of my eternal love, surrounding you and enfolding you day and night. You are my beloved wife and Queen, and I marry you today with this ring as I give you my heart, my body and the very breath of my soul."
She was astounded at the beauty of the ring he was slipping onto her left hand. The light danced off the clusters of diamonds as he lifted her hand to his lips, kissing the ring he had just placed there.
"Then seal your promise with a kiss." Wiseman nodded solemnly.
She had time to draw a breath, just one, before his mouth was on hers. Her first, instantaneous response was shock. She had never been kissed by him, by anyone like this, although truth be told, she had imagined it from time to time, especially when she remembered Jareth. But no imagining had prepared her for the reality of his touch, not harsh or cruel but enticing, tempting.....drawing her out of solitude, presenting her with intimacy and passion. His lips were firm, parting hers, the heat and taste of him suddenly in her mouth. She gasped and dug her hands into his shoulders, buffeted by a force she had not known existed. He made a rough sound deep in his throat and gathered her closer.
Her spirit leaped in the instant recognition if his. The wildness within her answered his own. Sarah felt the fierce longing raging within him, echoing within her, calling her hunger for him to life. She savored the thrust of his tongue, teasing with hers, suddenly bold where she had mere moments before been unsure.
He pulled away reluctantly, kissing her forehead lightly. "Soon." He promised.
Chapter 7.
The Embrace of Heaven and Earth.
R- rating change for this chapter. Standard disclaimers apply.
The crowd roared it's approval as he kissed Sarah. There was no containing them. They surged forward, the men lifting Jareth on their shoulders as the women did the same with Sarah. As the music resumed in a fury, they were carried around and around the tree until at last, breathless and laughing, the crowd deposited them in their seats at the high table.
As others found their places, and the servants darted forward to fill cups and bowls, Jareth leaned over and covered Sarah's hand with his own.
"Are you all right?"
Was she? She really didn't know. She was dazed and very uncertain. And yet....Her eyes drifted to the place on his jaw where her fist had landed. Again she felt a tremor of guilt at her own behavior.
There was no mark but at the very least it must have stung his male pride. Yet he had said nothing of it to her, offered no recrimination, and inflicted no punishment. Did she dare to hope that he thought her small attack in some way deserved.
Slowly, less sure of anything than she had ever been in her life, Sarah nodded.
***
There were proprieties to be observed. His people expected certain things. Rituals were important, serving as they did to strengthen a community. Jareth reminded himself that happiness had been rare over the past 11 years, fighting and bitterness all too common. This would help restore their spirit. It didn't help. He was rock hard, his blood throbbed more fiercely than the music, and he burned with a fire that threatened to consume him.
Sarah by contrast, seemed to be enjoying herself. Will was being charming, and had started on yet another story. He appeared to have an endless supply of them. Had he not been born into royalty, Jareth mused, he had no doubt that he would have been a great Bard.
Sarah sat at his right side, attending to Will's tale with rapt interest. She looked perfectly contented to remain here all night. That impression was confirmed a few moments later when Will concluded his tale, or tried to. At once, Sarah asked, "What was the name of the Goddess who changes into a raven?" Truth be told, she had no particular interest in a story that under other circumstances would have enthralled her. Indeed she could think of scarcely think of anything except the Fae she now called husband and the conflicting anxiety and desire coursing through her at the thoughts of events to come. But Will was unexpectedly kind, reminding her of her little brother. Reminding her, too, of how soon she would be wrapped in Jareth's arms, submitting to the passion she had long repressed in herself for the Fae so rightly called King of the Goblins. Who's mere glance sent her pulse rushing and passionate fire licking along her spine.
Will smiled at her gently, as though he sensed the direction of her thoughts and sought to south them. "Morrigan. Protector and consort of warriors and strategist of the Gods."
"Extraordinary." Sarah said. "Does she often make it a habit to protect warriors?"
"Those she favors. Those she does not are often favored by her mate. Those two are generally at odds over something or another." Will cast a quick glance in his friend's direction and grinned broadly. "Of course, that's not unusual in marriage."
Jareth waved away the goblin attempting to refill his glass. He'd drunk little this night and all but ignored the feast. Neither food nor drink would satisfy the appetite raging within him. "I've always thought," He said looking hard at Will, "that most of their problems came from interfering friends and relatives."
"And I," Will shot back, "have always thought that he didn't appreciate Morrigan enough. She is, after all, the most beautiful, most courageous, and the most clever of women....of goddesses, that is." He leaned back in his chair, still smiling at Jareth, and added, "Maybe she's just too much for him."
She was struck by the exchange between Jareth and Will, thick as it was of unspoken messages. She glanced from husband to friend. Will appeared to be in very good humor although she sensed beneath it the lingering pain of his wound. She wondered what care he had received since returning, and if he would be willing to allow her to help. But there was little time to think of that before she was caught by the passionate hunger of Jareth's gaze.
A small shock ran through her. Throughout the feast she had deliberately kept her attention from him, focusing on anything and everything else in an effort to remain calm. Now, for the first time, she saw the hunger in him and the savage battle he was waging to contain it. A battle she also saw, all too clearly, that he was about to loose.
Jareth raised a hand. A servant appeared at his side. He gave instructions and the Fae man nodded before disappearing. A moment later, a group of female elves and Fae appeared. "It is time." The tall red headed Fae said to Sarah, smiling softly.
There certainly was no point asking time for what but Sarah was tempted, just briefly. Pride rescued her. She'd already delayed as long as she possibly could, encouraging Will to tell story after story. Not that they weren't fascinating, but all she'd really managed to do was heighten Jareth's impatience.
Her throat was dry as she stood. For an instant, she feared that her legs were too weak to hold her. She took a deep breath, fighting for calm, and moved away from the table. The crowd saw her and raised a lusty cheer, thumping their goblets and hands on the tables. Their bawdy comments made her cheeks burn.
She stumbled slightly and would have fallen had Jareth not reached out a hand to catch her. Their eyes met. She saw the raw lust burning in his but beneath it, something else, stronger even, more enduring, something that made her breath come just a little easier.
She moved away and the red haired elf was there to hurry her along. Behind her the music soared
***
The metal braziers filled with tallow cast eerie shadows over the walls of Jareth's private quarters. Shapes were distorted and too large. Sarah shivered as she finished bathing and quickly dried herself.
She could still hear the laughter and excitement of the crowd in the distance and inside this room, His luxurious room, the laughter and bantering of the women who had escorted her.
The covers of the vast bed had been turned down and sprinkled with petals of wild roses. Sheaves of freshly cut barley were twined around the posts. Her clothing had been taken away and she was left only a diaphanous gown, embroidered at the hem with golden symbols.
The women smiled their good byes casting envious looks at her and the bed. Mila, the red head, had stayed to help her comb out her hair.
"You look lovely. His Majesty will not be able to take his eyes from you." She beamed, setting the brush down on the stand. Sarah's hair glistened like sable in the fire light. The gown hugged her curves, revealing as it concealed. She had to admit it did make her feel sexy.
"What do the symbols mean?" Sarah asked looking at the fine stitching.
"They are Fae sigils. Wishes or blessings of a sort. They were weaved into this piece by the artists who made this dress for you so long ago." Her statement surprised Sarah.
"How long ago was this made?" The cool night air brushed the soft silk of the gown around her sensitive skin.
"Why, when you last visited us, Madam. We all thought you had chosen to stay with us then, especially when the King commissioned your gown and trousseau." Her voice shifted from happiness to sorrow, "When you left, He ordered this packed away for your return."
Sarah studied the symbols on the edge of the gown. "Each one is different, do they have some special meaning?" "Of course Ma'am. This one is desire," pointing to one then another, "This fertility, and love, protection, and this one," she added, pointing to the one shaped like His crest," is his special gift to you." Sarah puzzled, but Mila shook her head and giggled lightly. "It is for His Majesty to explain." She cast Sarah a glowing smile. "We are all so happy that you returned Ma'am. Thank you, from all of us." Sarah tentatively returned the smile as the woman faded out of view.
Sarah stood frozen in place, her whole body trembling with fear and anticipation. Slowly, she moved to the window and wrapped her arms tightly around her trembling body.
***
Jareth shut the door firmly behind his noisy, boisterous escort. He sealed the door with magic, lest the drunken revelers prove to have more enthusiasm than good sense. A few of the more persistent remained outside, calling encouragements and lewd suggestions, but he chuckled and ignored them.
He turned, his mismatched eyes scanning his chamber for Sarah. When he failed to see his bride, his first thought was that she had fled. Anger was already surging through him when a faint movement drew his eyes to the woman standing in the shadows.
"Sarah?" He called softly and moved towards her. Sarah looked up, the pale oval of her face framed in a torrent of silken hair, and pressed her lips tightly together. He needed no great sensitivity to know that she was fighting a desperate battle against raw fear.
"Sarah?" he murmured, worry overtaking the hard thrumming lust he would not have thought anything could supplant. Gathering her carefully, offering a silent prayer of thanks when she didn't resist, he carried her to the bed and sat down with her on his lap.
"I'm terrified. I want this yet I am so scared." She said, looking up, meeting his eyes bravely.
Her statement shocked him so that he laughed. He was consumed with hunger for her, randier than he could remember being in centuries. He held her a little tighter. "I understand. It's natural to be nervous."
That had to be it. She was a new bride confronted by a husband she knew only from a prior nightmare and hardly knew. She was bound to be frightened. "Sarah, we are two halves of the same soul. I could never hurt you" He stated softly caressing her back, smoothing her hair. He sensed her conflicting emotions, battling for control of her mind. Slowly he fed her mind comforting warmth, shielding his feelings of intense desire to possess her.
She took a breath as she calmed under his caressing hand. "I know you would never hurt me, Jareth. ...."
He tilted her chin up with an ungloved hand. His touch was gentle, his eyes searching hers. "You feel confused and frightened because your entire life has been turned upside down and you find yourself in a situation where you never imagined you could possibly be?"
She blinked in surprise, which pleased him. He liked the idea of being as unexpected to her as she was to him. It corrected the balance between them.
"Well, yes," Sarah said softly, "as a matter of fact that is exactly how I feel."
"What an odd coincidence. So do I."
She straightened up slightly and stared at him. "You do? How can that be?"
Ideas he had just long thought , never spoken, took word. "Everyone here, including Will, who has wits beyond any Fae I've ever met, seems to think war is inevitable. I was certain that it could be avoided, and I just couldn't ignore it. The only thought that superceded it ever were my feelings for you Sarah." His eyes swept over the length of her.
"Feelings for me?" she asked tentatively. "What feelings?"
"Let's just say that you have a strange effect on me. You did 11 years ago and I find that you have an unsettling effect on me now. " He chuckled lightly.
She shrugged her elegant shoulders, "Well, since we're being honest here, you did the same to me then.....and much more so now." Her fingers traced the line of his jaw, settling on his sensual lips.
She should have never said that. He'd been all right up until then, holding on to his self-control, mustering patience, trying his damnedest to give her whatever she seemed to need. But now........
He looked down again, his gaze drifting over pale rose-hued skin clearly, visible through the almost sheer silk of her gown, sweet delicate curves and long, perfectly formed limbs. His hands shook with the need to touch her. Now, this instant, without any more of the maddening delay made suddenly intolerable by the knowledge that she desired him, too."
He drew her back across the bed. Sarah gave a little gasp at their sudden change of position and tried to sit up. Jareth gently moved atop of her, covering her with his long, lean body.
"Hush," he murmured, his mouth tracing the delicate curve of her jaw, down her slender throat to the sweet hollow between her collarbones. He wanted to take his time, savor each new discovery, but his body raged for her. Blood pounded in his veins, Hot driving lust surged through him, making him heedless of all else. "Everything will be all right."
She was shaking as he removed her gown, and she told herself it was from the chill in the night air. She knew better, knew she trembled with a mixture of excitement and nervousness at facing this mysterious Fae. Yet was he truly so mysterious?
Slowly she helped him removed his clothing, her eyes swept over him in the moment before he moved over her and a wave of heat moved through her soul Driven by a sudden impulse she could not deny, she reached up to him, cradling him in her arms.
He sighed deeply as skin touched skin, bringing a strange sense of homecoming. Their breath mingled, lips touching, mouths joining. She tasted and was tasted, relishing the discovery of him more each moment that passed. He surrounded her with warmth and care, holding his weight above her until she tightened her arms, drawing him nearer, needing to feel the strength and power of him.
He ran a hand down the length of her, seeking, learning, over the full curve of her breast, the indentation of her waist, the chalice of her hips to her smooth flanks and back again, his thumb teasing her nipple until she made a low sound deep in her throat and arched against him. He stroked his tongue down the column of her throat, tasting her sweet skin, trailing heat to her beckoning breasts. His teeth gently scraped over her breast, teasing the nipple into a hard peak before moving to the soft swell. She heard a moan come from her own throat as the flames of passion licked along her body, pooling in her moistening core.
Jareth shuddered with pleasure at her response. To hold such a woman as Sarah in his arms, and she married to him, was more than he had ever imagined. Distant memories of disappointment and sorrow echoed one last time before they dissolved beneath the sheer impact of his relief. He took her mouth, drinking in deeply. It was in his mind to go slowly, to do everything possible to assure her pleasure, but his mind wasn't working just then. Restraint eroded quickly. If she would only be still.....but no, he didn't want that and she wouldn't. She moved beneath him, her hips arching to his, her hands stroking and making soft keening noises deep in her throat.
His spirit leaped in response yet he slowed all the same, finding himself driven to savor her. Her breasts were high and full, perfectly fitted to his hands. Beneath them, faint shadows traced her rib cage. His mouth drifted down over the smoothness of her belly. She whimpered and yanked hard on his hair, wringing a laugh that turned to a groan as he tasted the essence of her. She went rigid in his arms and for a moment her hands pushed hard against his shoulders to unseat him. An instant later she melted, crying out softly as she fell back against the bed.
Sarah opened her eyes to the high vaulted ceiling that danced with lights and shadow, but did not see it. She could only hear the thudding of her own heart and feel the reverberations of ecstasy she had never known existed. Jareth moved above her and where she had never seen the lights or shadows, she saw him. Saw this Fae, solid and real, fierce and tender, so powerful that he could overwhelm her without effort, yet waiting .....his eyes meeting hers, questioning.
A moment more she hesitated, her head tilting back, savoring the echoes of virgin pleasure taken without price. It was not enough. She reached out, her touch lingering over the contours of his well defined back muscles, his chest, flat abdomen and beyond. Gently she cupped him, feeling his heat and massive strength. Deep within her, joy stirred. She bent her legs, making a place for him, and felt him fit it perfectly.
"Sarah...." He lingered over her name as he lingered over her, going slowly, watching her every moment. His gaze never lessened, nor did hers, as he penetrated the virgin barrier, wincing as he did so as though the pain was his. She saw that and her heart opened with her body. Clasping her to him, cradling his head against her breasts, she rushed towards the power unfolding within her and took him with her into heaven.
***
Goblins, Fae, and elves of all ages, milled about, their faces aglow with excitement. Cooks swirled around the fires, working frantically. Servants, scrambled to finish setting up all the extra tables, enough for a crowd far too large to be accommodated even in the largest room of the castle.
Jareth looked around slowly. What he saw pleased him greatly. For a wedding feast prepared in a matter of hours instead of the weeks that were normally required, he could find no fault.
Absently, he rubbed his jaw, caught himself doing so and grimaced. She hadn't actually bruised him; he'd checked as he changed his attire to something more befitting the occasion. But there was no denying that Sarah had a surprisingly solid punch when she was riled.
With hindsight, he supposed that as marriage proposals went, his had left something to be desired. Promising to kidnap her little brother and lay charges punishably by death if she didn't become his wife probably wasn't the best way to win Sarah's heart. But it was the only way to efficiently end this conflict and ensure everyone's safety, especially hers. He needed her obedience, and since he was being honest, he wanted her. He always had.
Tonight she would be his. The formidable self control he had exercised over the past 11 years would no longer be needed. He would sate himself in the beautiful woman. By morning, he would be himself again, in total control.
That didn't mean he wouldn't value her and treat her kindly, only that he would not feel the hot, dazed hunger she triggered in him. He would be himself again.
But first there was a wedding to get through.
"Nervous?" Will asked as he emerged from the castle behind Jareth. He grinned challengingly, "If you're not feeling up to it, my friend, I'd be happy to...."
"Exactly how eager are you to dine in the Summerlands this night?" Jareth asked pleasantly.
Will laughed and raised his hands in mock surrender. "Thanks, but I'll pass. The lady is yours and welcome to her." He glanced at Jareth's jaw and smiled broadly. "Spirited. Isn't that what you once called her?"
Jareth flushed slightly. Will noticed too much. "She will learn," he said with utter confidence.
"Well then," Will replied, "there's no reason to delay."
Together they walked into the large open area where the crowd had assembled. They were seen almost at once and a great cheer went up. People pressed forward to greet their King and his friend, both warriors of great renown, and to offer their congratulations to Jareth on this happy occasion.
In the midst of much ribald jest, Jareth kept an eye on the castle doors. Where was she? He was about to fetch her when the doors swung open and Sarah emerged. He couldn't be absolutely sure but he thought she had some help from her maid, who appeared to give her a little start.
Her indigo blue gown was cut low in the front, affording him a tantalizing amount of cleavage to appreciate. A halo of flowers had been added to her hair which was styled as it had been in the ballroom. Around her neck was a golden chain and pendant. It matched his pendant identically except in size. More than anything else, the pendant was an unmistakable symbol of his possession. Sarah certainly understood its purpose, for her fingers closed around the golden metal and even as he watched, she tugged at it angrily.
Jareth grinned. He couldn't help it, her spirit pleased him. His patience suddenly gone, and determined that this not take a moment more than absolutely necessary, he strode through the crowd and met Sarah before she could take more than a few steps from the castle.
She saw him coming and stopped abruptly. Her breath caught. His tall elegant frame was dressed far more luxuriously than she had ever seen him, in a jacket of rich black silk fitted closely over his slim but well muscled body, and tight trousers of soft black leather. A white shirt, peaked through the open neck. His hair was framing his fine-boned, handsome Fae features, and around his throat he wore a larger version of the pendant her fingers were worrying. His gaze moved slowly over her face. She recognized the tender possessiveness in his eyes. Finger of heat flickered along her nerves, pooling in her core. Everything about Jareth mesmerized her. Why did he have to look so utterly masculine? His tall frame was well muscled, hard and look so good. She wondered if her reaction to him showed? His answering smile and arched eyebrow confirmed her suspicions.
Determinedly, she nodded and held out her hand. His own closed around it with gentleness that surprised her. She was drawn with him into the crowd.
At the center of the large open area stood a tree. It was very old with gnarled branches that stretched out as though in a loving embrace. Before it stood the wise man and his hat. He was simply dressed and smiled as Sarah and Jareth approached. "Hello again young woman. Your Majesty."
The people gathered along the perimeter of a stone circle surrounding the tree. " The Wiseman's low baritone abruptly caught Sarah's attention. "Let the four directions be honored that power and radiance might enter our circle for the good of all beings."
A female elf dressed in dark green came forward into the circle from behind the Wiseman. " With the blessing of the deep and fruitful earth, we call upon the powers of the North." She stated softly, extending her arms towards the couple. A green flame appeared at her feet, floating up to engulf her body. She appeared unhurt to Sarah's startled regard.
A goblin stepped towards them, and Sarah recognized him as the one who had lead the army against her 11 years ago. "With the blessing of the inner fire of the sun, we call upon the powers of the South." Red flames engulfed his body increasing the visibility of the circle.
Sarah heard another approach behind her and noted the visible cool blue light reflected on Jareth's face. He appeared pleased, an unsettling warmth in his eyes as he watched her. "With the blessing of the sacred waters of the pool, we call upon the powers of the West." called a familiar voice.
Sarah turned to look behind her and tears sprung to her eyes. Hoggle stood there, engulfed in blue light, his face aglow with happiness. She smiled, blinking back tears and nodding to him. She turned back to Jareth and saw the pleasure and that rare softness in his smile.
A small fairy floated into the circle, fluttering it's wings to hold it's position. Her little soft voice was like a tiny bell. "With the blessing of the clear pure air, we call upon the powers of the East." She was momentarily engulfed in white light.
The Wiseman nodded to all 4 people. "May the harmony of our circle be complete. We stand upon this Holy Earth and in the Face of Heaven to witness the Sacred Rite of Marriage between Our King and Lady Sarah. Just as we come together as family and friends so we ask for the Greater Powers to be present here within our Circle. May this Sacred Union be filled with their blessed presence."
He continued looking at his King. "I invoke the God of Love whose name is Aengus mac Og to be present in this Sacred Place. In his name is Love declared."
The old wizard turned to Sarah, who was amazed that he was still awake. "I invoke the Goddess of the Bright Flame whose name is Brigid to be present in this Sacred Place. In Her name is Peace declared."
He turned to Jareth and smiled, "Take the hand of your love in yours." The King gently accepted Sarah's left hand and held it close to his heart. "Please state your vows My Lord."
Tenderness filled the King's handsome face as he reached for her hand and drew it to his heart. As he spoke, she felt herself falling into his gaze, into him, a part of him where she was warm and safe. His voice was soft and sexy, whispering seduction over her nerves, lighting fires in her blood. "By seed and root, by bud and stem, by leaf and flower and fruit, by life and by love, in the name of the Lord and Lady, I take thee to my hand, my heart and my spirit, at the setting of the sun and the rising of the stars. Nor shall death part us, for in the ripeness of time we shall meet, and know, and remember, and love again. Flesh of thy flesh, bone of thy bone, I here, thou there, yet both as one."
Tendrils of a warm, loving awareness filled her mind, brushing her thoughts, filling the emptiness within her soul. She wasn't sure how, but somehow the vow had bound them deeper than mere words. She knew it had because she felt different. Felt whole.
Turning to Sarah, the Wiseman nodded. "Take the hand of your love in yours."
She drew his ungloved hand to her heart as she had seen him do. His smooth skin warmed her trembling fingers, steadied her frazzled nerves. His eyes were filled with warmth and tenderness as she recited her vow to him. " By seed and root, by bud and stem, by leaf and flower and fruit, by life and by love, in the name of the Lord and Lady, I take thee to my hand, my heart and my spirit, at the setting of the sun and the rising of the stars. Nor shall death part us, for in the ripeness of time we shall meet, and know, and remember, and love again. Flesh of thy flesh, bone of thy bone, I here, thou there, yet both as one."
The awareness she had come to recognize as his presence, washed over her again. Jareth had momentarily closed his eyes, his face taking on a blissful warmth. When he opened his eyes they held a deep tenderness edged with raw desire. Belatedly, she realized that however his vow had bound her to him, hers had done the same to him.
"As the Sun and Moon bring light to the land do you Jareth and Sarah vow to bring the light of love and joy to the union? Do you vow to honor each other as you honor which you hold most sacred? Do you vow to maintain these vows in freedom, for as long as love shall last?" The Wiseman asked.
Not releasing the others eyes they replied softly in unison. "We do."
Jareth gently caressed her fingers. "I give you this ring as a symbol of my love for you. Let it remind you always, as it circles your finger, of my eternal love, surrounding you and enfolding you day and night. You are my beloved wife and Queen, and I marry you today with this ring as I give you my heart, my body and the very breath of my soul."
She was astounded at the beauty of the ring he was slipping onto her left hand. The light danced off the clusters of diamonds as he lifted her hand to his lips, kissing the ring he had just placed there.
"Then seal your promise with a kiss." Wiseman nodded solemnly.
She had time to draw a breath, just one, before his mouth was on hers. Her first, instantaneous response was shock. She had never been kissed by him, by anyone like this, although truth be told, she had imagined it from time to time, especially when she remembered Jareth. But no imagining had prepared her for the reality of his touch, not harsh or cruel but enticing, tempting.....drawing her out of solitude, presenting her with intimacy and passion. His lips were firm, parting hers, the heat and taste of him suddenly in her mouth. She gasped and dug her hands into his shoulders, buffeted by a force she had not known existed. He made a rough sound deep in his throat and gathered her closer.
Her spirit leaped in the instant recognition if his. The wildness within her answered his own. Sarah felt the fierce longing raging within him, echoing within her, calling her hunger for him to life. She savored the thrust of his tongue, teasing with hers, suddenly bold where she had mere moments before been unsure.
He pulled away reluctantly, kissing her forehead lightly. "Soon." He promised.
Chapter 7.
The Embrace of Heaven and Earth.
R- rating change for this chapter. Standard disclaimers apply.
The crowd roared it's approval as he kissed Sarah. There was no containing them. They surged forward, the men lifting Jareth on their shoulders as the women did the same with Sarah. As the music resumed in a fury, they were carried around and around the tree until at last, breathless and laughing, the crowd deposited them in their seats at the high table.
As others found their places, and the servants darted forward to fill cups and bowls, Jareth leaned over and covered Sarah's hand with his own.
"Are you all right?"
Was she? She really didn't know. She was dazed and very uncertain. And yet....Her eyes drifted to the place on his jaw where her fist had landed. Again she felt a tremor of guilt at her own behavior.
There was no mark but at the very least it must have stung his male pride. Yet he had said nothing of it to her, offered no recrimination, and inflicted no punishment. Did she dare to hope that he thought her small attack in some way deserved.
Slowly, less sure of anything than she had ever been in her life, Sarah nodded.
***
There were proprieties to be observed. His people expected certain things. Rituals were important, serving as they did to strengthen a community. Jareth reminded himself that happiness had been rare over the past 11 years, fighting and bitterness all too common. This would help restore their spirit. It didn't help. He was rock hard, his blood throbbed more fiercely than the music, and he burned with a fire that threatened to consume him.
Sarah by contrast, seemed to be enjoying herself. Will was being charming, and had started on yet another story. He appeared to have an endless supply of them. Had he not been born into royalty, Jareth mused, he had no doubt that he would have been a great Bard.
Sarah sat at his right side, attending to Will's tale with rapt interest. She looked perfectly contented to remain here all night. That impression was confirmed a few moments later when Will concluded his tale, or tried to. At once, Sarah asked, "What was the name of the Goddess who changes into a raven?" Truth be told, she had no particular interest in a story that under other circumstances would have enthralled her. Indeed she could think of scarcely think of anything except the Fae she now called husband and the conflicting anxiety and desire coursing through her at the thoughts of events to come. But Will was unexpectedly kind, reminding her of her little brother. Reminding her, too, of how soon she would be wrapped in Jareth's arms, submitting to the passion she had long repressed in herself for the Fae so rightly called King of the Goblins. Who's mere glance sent her pulse rushing and passionate fire licking along her spine.
Will smiled at her gently, as though he sensed the direction of her thoughts and sought to south them. "Morrigan. Protector and consort of warriors and strategist of the Gods."
"Extraordinary." Sarah said. "Does she often make it a habit to protect warriors?"
"Those she favors. Those she does not are often favored by her mate. Those two are generally at odds over something or another." Will cast a quick glance in his friend's direction and grinned broadly. "Of course, that's not unusual in marriage."
Jareth waved away the goblin attempting to refill his glass. He'd drunk little this night and all but ignored the feast. Neither food nor drink would satisfy the appetite raging within him. "I've always thought," He said looking hard at Will, "that most of their problems came from interfering friends and relatives."
"And I," Will shot back, "have always thought that he didn't appreciate Morrigan enough. She is, after all, the most beautiful, most courageous, and the most clever of women....of goddesses, that is." He leaned back in his chair, still smiling at Jareth, and added, "Maybe she's just too much for him."
She was struck by the exchange between Jareth and Will, thick as it was of unspoken messages. She glanced from husband to friend. Will appeared to be in very good humor although she sensed beneath it the lingering pain of his wound. She wondered what care he had received since returning, and if he would be willing to allow her to help. But there was little time to think of that before she was caught by the passionate hunger of Jareth's gaze.
A small shock ran through her. Throughout the feast she had deliberately kept her attention from him, focusing on anything and everything else in an effort to remain calm. Now, for the first time, she saw the hunger in him and the savage battle he was waging to contain it. A battle she also saw, all too clearly, that he was about to loose.
Jareth raised a hand. A servant appeared at his side. He gave instructions and the Fae man nodded before disappearing. A moment later, a group of female elves and Fae appeared. "It is time." The tall red headed Fae said to Sarah, smiling softly.
There certainly was no point asking time for what but Sarah was tempted, just briefly. Pride rescued her. She'd already delayed as long as she possibly could, encouraging Will to tell story after story. Not that they weren't fascinating, but all she'd really managed to do was heighten Jareth's impatience.
Her throat was dry as she stood. For an instant, she feared that her legs were too weak to hold her. She took a deep breath, fighting for calm, and moved away from the table. The crowd saw her and raised a lusty cheer, thumping their goblets and hands on the tables. Their bawdy comments made her cheeks burn.
She stumbled slightly and would have fallen had Jareth not reached out a hand to catch her. Their eyes met. She saw the raw lust burning in his but beneath it, something else, stronger even, more enduring, something that made her breath come just a little easier.
She moved away and the red haired elf was there to hurry her along. Behind her the music soared
***
The metal braziers filled with tallow cast eerie shadows over the walls of Jareth's private quarters. Shapes were distorted and too large. Sarah shivered as she finished bathing and quickly dried herself.
She could still hear the laughter and excitement of the crowd in the distance and inside this room, His luxurious room, the laughter and bantering of the women who had escorted her.
The covers of the vast bed had been turned down and sprinkled with petals of wild roses. Sheaves of freshly cut barley were twined around the posts. Her clothing had been taken away and she was left only a diaphanous gown, embroidered at the hem with golden symbols.
The women smiled their good byes casting envious looks at her and the bed. Mila, the red head, had stayed to help her comb out her hair.
"You look lovely. His Majesty will not be able to take his eyes from you." She beamed, setting the brush down on the stand. Sarah's hair glistened like sable in the fire light. The gown hugged her curves, revealing as it concealed. She had to admit it did make her feel sexy.
"What do the symbols mean?" Sarah asked looking at the fine stitching.
"They are Fae sigils. Wishes or blessings of a sort. They were weaved into this piece by the artists who made this dress for you so long ago." Her statement surprised Sarah.
"How long ago was this made?" The cool night air brushed the soft silk of the gown around her sensitive skin.
"Why, when you last visited us, Madam. We all thought you had chosen to stay with us then, especially when the King commissioned your gown and trousseau." Her voice shifted from happiness to sorrow, "When you left, He ordered this packed away for your return."
Sarah studied the symbols on the edge of the gown. "Each one is different, do they have some special meaning?" "Of course Ma'am. This one is desire," pointing to one then another, "This fertility, and love, protection, and this one," she added, pointing to the one shaped like His crest," is his special gift to you." Sarah puzzled, but Mila shook her head and giggled lightly. "It is for His Majesty to explain." She cast Sarah a glowing smile. "We are all so happy that you returned Ma'am. Thank you, from all of us." Sarah tentatively returned the smile as the woman faded out of view.
Sarah stood frozen in place, her whole body trembling with fear and anticipation. Slowly, she moved to the window and wrapped her arms tightly around her trembling body.
***
Jareth shut the door firmly behind his noisy, boisterous escort. He sealed the door with magic, lest the drunken revelers prove to have more enthusiasm than good sense. A few of the more persistent remained outside, calling encouragements and lewd suggestions, but he chuckled and ignored them.
He turned, his mismatched eyes scanning his chamber for Sarah. When he failed to see his bride, his first thought was that she had fled. Anger was already surging through him when a faint movement drew his eyes to the woman standing in the shadows.
"Sarah?" He called softly and moved towards her. Sarah looked up, the pale oval of her face framed in a torrent of silken hair, and pressed her lips tightly together. He needed no great sensitivity to know that she was fighting a desperate battle against raw fear.
"Sarah?" he murmured, worry overtaking the hard thrumming lust he would not have thought anything could supplant. Gathering her carefully, offering a silent prayer of thanks when she didn't resist, he carried her to the bed and sat down with her on his lap.
"I'm terrified. I want this yet I am so scared." She said, looking up, meeting his eyes bravely.
Her statement shocked him so that he laughed. He was consumed with hunger for her, randier than he could remember being in centuries. He held her a little tighter. "I understand. It's natural to be nervous."
That had to be it. She was a new bride confronted by a husband she knew only from a prior nightmare and hardly knew. She was bound to be frightened. "Sarah, we are two halves of the same soul. I could never hurt you" He stated softly caressing her back, smoothing her hair. He sensed her conflicting emotions, battling for control of her mind. Slowly he fed her mind comforting warmth, shielding his feelings of intense desire to possess her.
She took a breath as she calmed under his caressing hand. "I know you would never hurt me, Jareth. ...."
He tilted her chin up with an ungloved hand. His touch was gentle, his eyes searching hers. "You feel confused and frightened because your entire life has been turned upside down and you find yourself in a situation where you never imagined you could possibly be?"
She blinked in surprise, which pleased him. He liked the idea of being as unexpected to her as she was to him. It corrected the balance between them.
"Well, yes," Sarah said softly, "as a matter of fact that is exactly how I feel."
"What an odd coincidence. So do I."
She straightened up slightly and stared at him. "You do? How can that be?"
Ideas he had just long thought , never spoken, took word. "Everyone here, including Will, who has wits beyond any Fae I've ever met, seems to think war is inevitable. I was certain that it could be avoided, and I just couldn't ignore it. The only thought that superceded it ever were my feelings for you Sarah." His eyes swept over the length of her.
"Feelings for me?" she asked tentatively. "What feelings?"
"Let's just say that you have a strange effect on me. You did 11 years ago and I find that you have an unsettling effect on me now. " He chuckled lightly.
She shrugged her elegant shoulders, "Well, since we're being honest here, you did the same to me then.....and much more so now." Her fingers traced the line of his jaw, settling on his sensual lips.
She should have never said that. He'd been all right up until then, holding on to his self-control, mustering patience, trying his damnedest to give her whatever she seemed to need. But now........
He looked down again, his gaze drifting over pale rose-hued skin clearly, visible through the almost sheer silk of her gown, sweet delicate curves and long, perfectly formed limbs. His hands shook with the need to touch her. Now, this instant, without any more of the maddening delay made suddenly intolerable by the knowledge that she desired him, too."
He drew her back across the bed. Sarah gave a little gasp at their sudden change of position and tried to sit up. Jareth gently moved atop of her, covering her with his long, lean body.
"Hush," he murmured, his mouth tracing the delicate curve of her jaw, down her slender throat to the sweet hollow between her collarbones. He wanted to take his time, savor each new discovery, but his body raged for her. Blood pounded in his veins, Hot driving lust surged through him, making him heedless of all else. "Everything will be all right."
She was shaking as he removed her gown, and she told herself it was from the chill in the night air. She knew better, knew she trembled with a mixture of excitement and nervousness at facing this mysterious Fae. Yet was he truly so mysterious?
Slowly she helped him removed his clothing, her eyes swept over him in the moment before he moved over her and a wave of heat moved through her soul Driven by a sudden impulse she could not deny, she reached up to him, cradling him in her arms.
He sighed deeply as skin touched skin, bringing a strange sense of homecoming. Their breath mingled, lips touching, mouths joining. She tasted and was tasted, relishing the discovery of him more each moment that passed. He surrounded her with warmth and care, holding his weight above her until she tightened her arms, drawing him nearer, needing to feel the strength and power of him.
He ran a hand down the length of her, seeking, learning, over the full curve of her breast, the indentation of her waist, the chalice of her hips to her smooth flanks and back again, his thumb teasing her nipple until she made a low sound deep in her throat and arched against him. He stroked his tongue down the column of her throat, tasting her sweet skin, trailing heat to her beckoning breasts. His teeth gently scraped over her breast, teasing the nipple into a hard peak before moving to the soft swell. She heard a moan come from her own throat as the flames of passion licked along her body, pooling in her moistening core.
Jareth shuddered with pleasure at her response. To hold such a woman as Sarah in his arms, and she married to him, was more than he had ever imagined. Distant memories of disappointment and sorrow echoed one last time before they dissolved beneath the sheer impact of his relief. He took her mouth, drinking in deeply. It was in his mind to go slowly, to do everything possible to assure her pleasure, but his mind wasn't working just then. Restraint eroded quickly. If she would only be still.....but no, he didn't want that and she wouldn't. She moved beneath him, her hips arching to his, her hands stroking and making soft keening noises deep in her throat.
His spirit leaped in response yet he slowed all the same, finding himself driven to savor her. Her breasts were high and full, perfectly fitted to his hands. Beneath them, faint shadows traced her rib cage. His mouth drifted down over the smoothness of her belly. She whimpered and yanked hard on his hair, wringing a laugh that turned to a groan as he tasted the essence of her. She went rigid in his arms and for a moment her hands pushed hard against his shoulders to unseat him. An instant later she melted, crying out softly as she fell back against the bed.
Sarah opened her eyes to the high vaulted ceiling that danced with lights and shadow, but did not see it. She could only hear the thudding of her own heart and feel the reverberations of ecstasy she had never known existed. Jareth moved above her and where she had never seen the lights or shadows, she saw him. Saw this Fae, solid and real, fierce and tender, so powerful that he could overwhelm her without effort, yet waiting .....his eyes meeting hers, questioning.
A moment more she hesitated, her head tilting back, savoring the echoes of virgin pleasure taken without price. It was not enough. She reached out, her touch lingering over the contours of his well defined back muscles, his chest, flat abdomen and beyond. Gently she cupped him, feeling his heat and massive strength. Deep within her, joy stirred. She bent her legs, making a place for him, and felt him fit it perfectly.
"Sarah...." He lingered over her name as he lingered over her, going slowly, watching her every moment. His gaze never lessened, nor did hers, as he penetrated the virgin barrier, wincing as he did so as though the pain was his. She saw that and her heart opened with her body. Clasping her to him, cradling his head against her breasts, she rushed towards the power unfolding within her and took him with her into heaven.
***