Jareth: Déjà vu

The crystal spun in the air before him, hovering, revealing Sarah's face within it. For a moment, he felt a sense of total recall; it could have been exactly twelve years ago, him looking at her anxious face in the dark of an oubliette. Even her clothes were similar--jeans again; she must live in them, and a loose white shirt. Was it the same shirt? No, it couldn't be. He sighed and shook himself. No squalling baby in his arms this time and only a handful of goblins for company. He snickered-her friends were among them.

Glumly, Hoggle paced back and forth, drawing a stick against the floor. "I shoulda never tol' her to come back," he muttered.

Didymis placed a hand on his friend's shoulder. "Aye, we did what we thought was right, my brother. We canna always see what lies beyond. And methinks that it may well be the right decision after all."

"Quiet, both of you," Jareth snapped, his eyes intent on Sarah's face. Yes, it could have been twelve years ago, but there were differences. Fine lines touched the corners of her eyes; her face was no longer a study in childish wonder. But she was still beautiful, so very beautiful, bringing life and youth in her hands like a gift.

He sighed, watching her face. She wasn't crying now--no, she looked resolute, determined as she furrowed through the dank oubliette, searching for the hidden door. A slow smile crossed his face...perhaps she'd find something else in the dark. He took another crystal from the air and set it afloat, watching it drift out the window of his chamber.

"I's got a bad feeling 'bout that," muttered Hoggle, watching the crystal's flight.