...Though We're Strangers Till Now
by Jacqui
Note - All the original characters do NOT belong to me, although the rest of them do. Last names of those characters who didn't or don't have them are entirely fictional. This is my first attempt at Labyrinth fan fiction, so reviews would be really nice and appreciated. This story is mostly based on the movie, but there's a few elements from the book thrown in here and there. I read Labyrinth analyses, various fan fiction, and also came up with my own conclusions and ideas. So, this entire story will entail all three of those sources of information. It may be weird, it may be good, either way, as I mentioned before...feedback is always appreciated and adored. :) Oh yeah, Jim Henson, Brian Froud, and everyone who had a hand in creating this movie are geniuses.
README - I wanted to address your question Xelena. Corsets ARE typically done in back, and of course by someone else. Helori was the one who did her corset up for her in that chapter. Remember? At least I don't know of anyone who can do corsets up by themselves, if they can, I'd love to know their secret. Thanks guys for all your support. I'm planning on making this fic at least 30 chapters long, so we're in for quite a ride. Don't lose hope on me yet, I've got the passion back for Labyrinth fiction, and I'm hoping I can make it interesting for you guys. I'll also try and make the chapters longer, this one here will be pretty lengthy.
README AGAIN - What do you guys think about these characters I created? Are they interesting? Do they annoy you? Would you love to meet them or would you love to blow their brains out? Let me know in further chapter reviews if you could please. I love reader feedback. As unworthy as I feel of those hundreds of reviews other Labby fiction is getting, I would love to reach that amount! I saw one with 700 something reviews...whoa. I'm green with envy.
Jareth paced in front of the Great Hall of the Seelie Court. He had no idea how he would present his case to the elders, but he knew he had to think of something quickly. The only thing he could think of was if he declared himself separate from his parents and their estates. The technically meant that he would be disowning his entire lineage. Which, he neither wanted to do, nor could do. He saw no reason for it. He sighed and looked up at the clock behind him, it was nearly 2 o'clock in the afternoon. All at once, he heard a loud bell sound twice as the two incredibly large double wooden doors swung open.
"Come forth and make yourself known," came a voice from the front of the room in which Jareth now peered into with widened eyes. He took in a deep breath, and then released it as he walked through the doors. He continued down a long stretch of walkway before he knelt down in front of a tall pew on one knee, crossed an arm over his chest, and bowed his head.
"Your Majesty, I am honored to be in your presence. I am Jareth, King of the Goblin realm."
"You may rise, Jareth. We have seen you quite often these past few days, I am interested to find out what you have come to us for this time," a different voice chimed in, sounding skeptical.
"I have come on behalf of my servant, Sarah. I wish to discuss her change of status more thoroughly," he said cordially, standing with his back straight and his arms firmly at his sides.
"More thoroughly? What do you speak of?" the lead elder asked in a booming voice, making Jareth jump slightly.
"I simply ask to withdraw my previous request in order to bring forth a new one," he said, trying to stay in control of his already nervous stature. "I wish to have her status higher, but not to that of a citizen of my kingdom. But, to that of a Countess." Jareth listened intently as gasps and whispered conversation filled the large white-washed room. The lead elder hushed the others around him, and cleared his throat.
"You do realize of course that this title you have mentioned is only attainable through hereditary or royal affiliations?" he said to Jareth, raising a brow.
"I do, Your Majesty," Jareth replied, bowing his head, "I have affiliations with her. I am a king, she has requested my services and is indebted to me, and therefore I made her my royal servant."
"I am correct when I say that this woman is mortal?"
"Yes, Your Majesty. She is a mortal from the world above."
"She also resides in your castle?"
"Yes, Your Majesty."
"It is usually forbidden to give such a high rank to anyone outside of a royal lineage. Your parents and I have been allies for many years, they are very upstanding individuals within not only their kingdom, but that of the Seelie Court. Furthermore, I trust you know what comes with the responsibilities of being a King, you being one yourself. I believe you to be a very honorable member of the fae kingdom, you have never faltered in your position, nor have you given the Seelie Court any reason to question your authority or your reign. I am sure you have just motive for requesting that a mortal's status be higher than that of those who are barely citizens and have been part of the fae kingdom for years. Hopefully, you will soon enlighten us."
"In due time, Your Majesty," Jareth said plainly. The elder nodded, tapping a finger on his lips.
"She knows and understands the duties which are required of a Countess, does she not?"
"Yes, Your Majesty. I have explained them to her outright, and I have seen to it that she's perfected them before I approached you with this request."
"Has she chosen the county in which she wishes to govern?"
"I have but one in my kingdom, Your Majesty, I suppose she will have to be Countess of just that one." The elder nodded, scratching his head with his index finger.
"If you will excuse us Jareth, we need a moment to discuss this matter, then we shall return with our decision," the elder said, looking at Jareth with a blank stare.
"Of course, Your Majesty," he nodded. When the group of men had finally left the room, Jareth expected them back within a few moments. Those moments, turned into several hours. Jareth nearly fell asleep waiting for them to file back into the room. It was nearly 7 o'clock when they had finally re-entered and sat down behind the pew in front of him.
"Jareth, it is our decision that we can not object to your request. After all, we here within the Seelie Court do stand behind the Seelie Code and regard it highly. We have in the past, and continue to strive for the chance to link our world with that of the mortal one we had at once been a part of. This woman Sarah, may prove to be of great benefit to us. But under no circumstances, if she manages to take severe action against the title we bestow upon her, shall we think twice about condemning her. You must realize that she is not of our kind, Jareth, mortals are still a great deal untrustworthy and dangerous to us regardless of our desire to connect with them. As of now, Sarah will hold the title of Countess, but if she should take advantage of it..."
"I understand, your Majesty. I thank you for taking your own time to honor me with this priviledge," Jareth nodded.
"Then you are dismissed, Jareth." He bowed once again, then silently turned and exited the Great Hall. As the doors shut with a loud thud, Jareth sighed heavily, knowing that his biggest obstacle had been passed. Now, he had to journey to the gnome kingdom. He disliked the fact that he had to spend a few days in the king's presence in both kingdoms in order to gain their trust and understanding, then work his way up toward the signing of treaties. He wanted to get back to Sarah as soon as possible in order to fill her in on her new status, and what was required of her to uphold it. He was very surprised that the courts were so easily convinced into accepting his request. Nevertheless, he just hoped the days would fly by so he could return to Sarah.
Sarah stared at the ring as she placed it on her vanity table. She watched the way it glittered as the sun poured in on it from the only window in her room. She sighed, thinking about the night before as some pleasurable, but very strange dream. Laughing to herself she had just realized that the room her and Jareth had made love in both times, was Phaedra's.
"Miss? Oh my, that is quite a ring, that didn't come from anywhere around here...it's so beautiful!" Helori said, looking over her shoulder.
"You are right about that, Helori...it didn't come from anywhere around here..." she whispered, smiling.
"Will you need anything washed, miss?"
"Yeah, it's over there," Sarah said, pointing behind her. Helori scurried over in that direction and picked up the clothing she found lumped in the corner.
"You should get some rest, miss, you look like you have not slept for days!" Helori said as she hurried toward the door. Sarah looked up into her mirror and smirked, Helori was right. She may have slept last night, but it didn't show on her face. She shrugged finally, and then stood up from her seat.
"I have nothing else to do," she said to herself, walking over and flopping down onto her bed. She missed Jareth like crazy, she sighed again, resting an arm on her forehead. She closed her eyes and imagined how different her life would be if she were Jareth's wife. She would be a queen, and of higher status than even that wretched Phaedra! Before long, Sarah had fallen asleep, her heart and mind both heavy with the new feeling of possibly becoming something more than she had ever hoped for.
For the next three days Sarah drudged around the castle, doing what the maids normally did, but she didn't know what else to do in such a big place all by herself. Phaedra had not come out of her room since she had returned the day after Jareth left. It scared her somewhat, but it also gave her a sense of relief not to have to deal with the woman's constant bickering and animosity.
Although, on the fourth day of Jareth's absence, Sarah had been walking down the hallway toward her quarters when she noticed Saerin standing outside of Phaedra's room. They were apparently discussing a get together of some sort, but that was all she was able to hear. Instead of hiding behind a wall to eavesdrop, as she was not interested at all in anything concerning Phaedra, she pretended as if she didn't notice them and kept walking.
"Ah, Lady Sarah, just the woman I wanted to see," Saerin blurted out as she approached them. Phaedra poked her head outside the door and glared at Sarah, obviously irritated that she had to share even the same air with her. Saerin wasn't supposed to be in the castle, so Sarah began to question how he got into the castle again.
"How did you--"
"I invited him. Is there a problem?" Phaedra cut in. Sarah ignored her, smiling.
"Hello, Saerin. Beautiful day isn't it?" Sarah said happily.
"Until you showed up," Phaedra said, finally.
"Now now, Phaedra, you do not want to be the cause of Jareth's wrath when he finds out you two are not getting along, do you?" Saerin said jokingly, as he and Phaedra began to laugh.
"Of course not, although his wrath can be fun sometimes, especially when he is the one in control," Phaedra replied, grinning sarcastically at Sarah. Sarah grimaced as she remembered that Phaedra and Jareth were once an intimate couple, and she became bothered about how Phaedra could talk so freely about his sex life.
"If you will excuse me, I have things to do," Sarah spat, attempting to walk around the both of them. But Saerin stepped out in front of her.
"Actually, Sarah, I wanted to invite you to our formal ball tonight. It is in celebration of the treaty between us fae and the gnomes being successful. You are on the guest list, so I hope you will not decline my offer," Saerin said as-a-matter-of-factly. Phaedra scoffed, rolling her eyes as the both of them awaited Sarah's answer.
"Well, I..." she began to say no, but looked at Phaedra and saw how disgusted she was, "I wouldn't miss it," she finished, looking back at Saerin.
"Perfect. Since Jareth will not be attending this ball due to him being preoccupied with the treaty between us and the elves, will you do me the honor of allowing me to be your escort?" Sarah looked disappointed, but she smiled and nodded.
"I will be there, but I will be coming late...my escort will not be back from business until after the ball has started," Phaedra said nonchalantly.
"If you will excuse me, Saerin, if I am to go to a ball, I don't plan on looking like something the cat drug in," Sarah said sweetly. Saerin nodded, and Sarah moved past the both of them and continued to her room. After she had slipped inside and shut the door, Phaedra and Saerin looked at once another with smiles of accomplishment.
Sarah rushed around her room, trying things on, then taking them off. She began to get frustrated as she scanned the floor, looking for something she might have missed. Then, finding absolutely nothing, she threw her hands up in disgust as she heaved a big sigh of hopelessness. Just then, Helori burst into the room with something in her arms.
"Miss, oh my, Master Saerin has brought you a gift!"
"Ah! Can't you knock!? I might be naked in here...or doing something else...important..." Sarah snapped. Helori just smiled and shrugged.
"You do not have anything that I have yet to see, miss," she replied. Sarah rolled her eyes, waving the conversation away.
"What has 'Master Saerin' brought me?" she asked as Helori handed her a light colored box.
"He brought me a box?" Sarah blinked, pulling the lid off. She gasped as her eyes fell on what was inside. It was a dress in bright blue and gold colors. As she pulled the dress from the box and held it in front of her, she stared in amazement. The entire bodice was made from a shiny metallic gold fabric, as was the skirt. All around the hem of the skirt there were small blue bows with dangling ribbons, while the waist had a small gold chain encircling it. The top had no sleeves, but thick bands that went over the shoulders. The neckline curved downward and rounded out just above the area where her cleavage would be. Helori tapped Sarah on the arm as she handed her the matching gold gloves and slippers. The shoes weren't as spectacular as the dress, but they were still far more beautiful than anything she ever owned back home. The fabric of the slippers was gold, but it had a blue tint to it as she turned the slippers this way and that. The gloves reached as long as the entire length of her arms, and they were the same metallic yellow color. She noticed that there was a large blue bow with several ribbons hanging from it on the top-front portion of each glove.
She smiled, hurrying Helori out of the room. Once she was alone, she quickly slipped into the dress, which fit her perfectly. She sighed in relief that she didn't have to wear that blasted corset this time! She eagerly stepped into the shiny slippers, and pulled the gloves on snuggly. The dress felt good against her body, and the gloves were incredibly soft. She spun around several times, watching the ribbons fly around with her. But as she stopped and looked at herself in the mirror, she realized that her hair and makeup had yet to be done.
"Damn," she whispered. "Helori! Could you--"
"Yes miss!" Helori replied, exploding back through the door as if she had read Sarah's mind. Sarah stood in confusion for a moment, wondering how such a small young goblin could manage to stay employed by Jareth so long if she went around barreling into everyone's rooms the way she did.
"Can you make my hair match this dress?" she said quickly, taking a seat at her vanity. Then she spilled her makeup out in front of her.
"Of course miss. How does a braided bun in the back with loose sections of hair in the front sound?" Helori schemed, just as excited as if she were attending the ball herself.
"You get to work and so will I," Sarah replied, closing an eye so she could apply a light blue shading. Helori bound her hair into a ponytail in the back, and quickly, but neatly began to braid it. Sarah finished one eye, then moved to the next. After she finished shadowing, she began applying the mascara-like liquid that came not in a tube, but a small dish. She had a hard time with the wands they used for their mascara, they didn't have several bristles like hers did at home. They were more like lash separators with thick prongs. Once she had the mascara on fairly well, she puckered her lips and began painting on a clear, sparkling substance. She remembered how Helori explained to her that she should put on a thin layer instead of a thick one, mainly because it would be too shiny and people would look away from her instead of at her. And that wasn't the reason for wearing it, you want to draw attention when you decorate your lips, not shun it. Helori had just finished pulling the loose strands of hair around her face and fixing it into a neat display. As Sarah stood up, she stepped away from the vanity and let Helori get a better look at her. She turned around and posed from side to side.
"Oh miss, you are truly beautiful," Helori said in awe. "I do envy you..."
"Thank you Helori," Sarah said with a grateful smile. "I do appreciate all your help, without you, sometimes I wouldn't look half as good as I do when you get through with me." Sarah posed a few more times, and as Helori was clapping they both heard a light knock on the door.
"Miss Sarah?" they heard Saerin's voice call, his voice unsure.
"Yes, Saerin, I'm coming!" Sarah called back. "Helori, hurry and run along. Thank you again, I couldn't have done this without you," Sarah whispered once more to the beaming maid.
"Oh miss, that is what I am here for! There is no need to thank me," Helori said, obviously so entranced by Sarah's beauty that she didn't mind being shooed away. Helori quickly left the room, and Sarah heard her making apologies and assuring Saerin that she would be out shortly. Sarah waited for a moment before she darted to the door and pulled it open.
"Good evening," Sarah said, smiling. Saerin's jaw literally dropped a few inches as she stepped out of her room and quietly shut the door behind her. "It's beautiful. Thank you, Saerin."
"It looks better now than when I had sent it to you," he whispered, "you look incredibly breathtaking, my dear." Sarah blushed a deep red as Saerin offered his arm to her. She looked him over, and he looked incredible. He wore smoky black trousers that fit him very nicely, and his boots were a perfect coal black. His midnight blue shirt had frilly cuffs, and very loosely fitted sleeves. The shirt had a V neckline that could be laced up, but was left open. The laces dangled there, as if begging to really be done up. His hair was tied back into a neat ponytail at the nape of the neck. He wore a black vest around the blue shirt, making him look very mysterious and romantic. Sarah began to float off into another world just looking at him, but snapped back to her senses as Saerin cleared his throat.
"Oh, Saerin, I'm sure I won't compare to the other hundreds of beautiful women you'll see at the ball when we get there..."
"I sincerely doubt that, my lady. Most of the women in the Seelie Court I haven't the faintest interest in, or they are married, courting, or just not interested in beginning a courtship at all. So, I am afraid that my limitations have been heightened to the maximum expectancy in that department." Sarah looked over at him in complete confusion, slipping her arm through his. "In other words, I do not have a very big selection to choose from," he concluded, catching on to her blank expression.
"Oh," she laughed, and they began to walk toward the large castle doors.
"Has Jareth used magic with you? I really do not feel like walking the entire way, the location is not far, but nevertheless..." Saerin said, looking toward her as she looked at him.
"Many times. I think he prefers it that way."
"Good, I believe I prefer it that way as well. We have the power to use magic, why not do so I always say." Then, Saerin slipped an arm around Sarah's waist, and took one of her hands into his.
"Will this be any different from Jareth's methods of transportation?" Sarah asked coyly.
"Not that I know of. Except my method will probably get us to our destination faster," he joked, and Sarah laughed lightly. "Hold on," he said, and within seconds, the two of them began fading, until the were completely gone.
The moment Sarah arrived at the ball, she began feeling incomplete. Without Jareth, she felt that she had no reason to be there. But, as she was escorted around to each little gathering of individuals and introduced, the better acquainted she became with everyone. She talked and laughed with those she found to be interested in her. When they brought up a subject about something she didn't understand or knew nothing about, Saerin would step in and change the flow of conversation to something she was able to talk about. Most of the women there, fortunately, did not give her stares or look distastefully at her. She was worried that she may look a bit too overdressed or maybe she revealed too much of her body. Saerin really made her self-consciousness fade away into the background. The entire night was going fairly well for her, and she even got to meet some high ranking officials that were well acquainted with Saerin. She thanked Jareth for teaching her how to act around royalty and those with important titles.
She got a fairly good look around the room and was amazed at how intricate the decorations were. Each window had a tapestry shaded in robin's egg blue that hung to the floor. The walls were decorated with several pictures of different types of art and an occasional picture of a respected ancestor of the Seelie Court. The bright white of the walls made Sarah slightly dizzy, but she still explored the rest of her surroundings visually. There were large white pillars which were in each corner of the room, apparently for show rather than support of the ceiling. They each had been engraved with a long beveled oval from top to bottom, and they went all the way around the body of each pillar. The tops and bottoms flared out into squares, but in between those squares and the pillar itself, there was a block that had angels and fairies carved into it with intricate cuts. Sarah was amazed to see that the floor was made of actual marble, the pattern on each tile was a swirl of colors, the colors consisted of black, white, and gray. There were many decorations around the room, all of which shone and glittered as the heavy candlelight danced across them. Saerin nudged Sarah slightly, throwing her out of her little world of visual examination.
"Well, Sarah, Jareth is not here to prevent us from dancing this time," he grinned, "will you dance with me?" Saerin asked, feigning a humorous tone.
"Would I dare decline a duke?" she replied, offering her hand. Saerin chuckled to himself, slipping his hand under hers and curling his fingers around hers. She placed her other hand on his shoulder and he let his rest on her hip.
"So...status really counts doesn't it?" she said as they whirled about the room, conscious about other couples around them.
"That it does, my dear. I apologize if anyone here has been rude to you, but they do regard status, yes." Saerin looked truly bothered about her saddened disposition.
"When I'm with you, they talk to me as if I were really someone important...but..." she sighed as he twirled her around, then brought her back toward him.
"Sarah, my dear, you are someone important. They just do not see that, yet," he said, smiling at her. Sarah smiled lightly, feeling somewhat relieved that Saerin was there with her. Although, she wished Jareth would return so she could tell him that she had accepted his proposal long before he had ever asked her.
"So when do you think Jareth will be back?" she asked, trying to act as if it didn't matter if she received an answer or not.
"He is in the process of getting the peace treaty with the elves signed as we speak, he should return with in a day or so. Why, do you miss him?" Saerin asked sarcastically. Sarah played it off and let out a fake scoff.
"Of course not."
"Then why do you ask?" he shot back, a look of 'yeah right' on his face.
"I asked because I wanted to know how much longer I had that castle to myself before he came back and claimed it as his own again," she lied, biting the inside of her cheek.
"I see," Saerin answered plainly, pulling her closer to him by wrapping his arm around her waist. Sarah began to get nervous.
"Can we take a break?" she said, smiling to cover up her worry.
"Of course," he said, releasing her and taking her by the hand. He led her over to a corner of the room where there was a single bench, but hardly any light.
"My head is beginning to spin, Saerin...I might be getting sick," she said as she sat down and immediately became dizzy. Saerin put his hand to her forehead, then gasped as he pulled his hand away.
"You are rather hot, Sarah. I believe it is in your best interest that we go somewhere less crowded and without the loud chattering. That could be what is making you unwell," he said, making his voice echo that of extreme concern. Sarah hesitated, but felt her stomach begin to knot up, and then she nodded in agreement.
"Where can I go in such a big place?" she asked, standing up as he took her arm into his.
"Just follow me. I know this place fairly well. I used to come to balls quite often as a young man so I could flirt with all the single ladies," he chuckled, pushing open a door for her so she could step through. Sarah placed a hand to her head, biting her lip. They walked for quite some time down a wide, barely lit hallway. The lack of light helped her headache, but her stomach still twisted and turned.
"Are we--"
"Here," he said, pushing open another door and leading her through it. Sarah sighed in relief as she saw a cushioned bench, which would have probably been the equivalent of her world's fainting chairs. She hurried over to it and sat down quickly. She laid back momentarily, and Saerin kept his eyes on her as if he were making sure she was alright. After a few moments, Sarah sat back up. She was shocked to find that her stomach had settled, and the pounding in her head had been reduced to a minimal thump. Saerin looked at her as if she were going to pass out at any moment.
"I'm fine, Saerin," she laughed, "I just sometimes get weirded out when I am around tons of people in a strange place." Saerin walked over and took a seat next to her.
"Are you sure, Sarah? I do not wish to see you fall ill again..."
"Really. I'm fine. We can go back to the party now..." she replied, then began to pull herself up. But before she made it to a stand, Saerin reached out and grabbed her hand. He roughly pulled her back down next to him.
"You do not look like you are better, Sarah...you look flushed..." he said, trying to keep her there. He brought his hands to rest on each side of her face. His actions were worrying her, she didn't feel that he should be touching her at all in the manner he was now.
"No, I'm fine...I'm just tired is all," she said, placing her hands on his and attempting to remove them. Saerin did remove his hands, but after he did so, he grabbed hers and pushed her back down onto the padded bench. Pinning both of her hands above her head, he shook his head at her. Sarah gasped, and tried to pull herself free.
"I am growing tired as well, tired of your games, Sarah..."
"Saerin, what are you doing?! Let go, you're hurting me!" Sarah cried, trying to move her body so she could use her legs as a defense. Saerin, noticing this, pinned her wrists with one hand, then moved the other down to swing her legs onto the couch underneath him. Sarah squirmed, tears stinging at her eyes as she had just begun to realize why Jareth had warned her about him. He had been right all along, and she fell into his trap once again. Only, this time she couldn't get herself out of it, he was much stronger than her, and he had the advantage of using magic against anything she could have used against him. Saerin laughed evilly to himself, leaning in toward her until they were just a few inches apart.
"Do not try to fight me, Sarah. It will only get worse for you if you keep it up," he whispered against her lips as he leaned in closer. Sarah cried out, and Saerin slapped her across the face. "I suggest you not make any more racket," he said angrily.
"Why are you--"
"Because I can, Sarah. You do not know how long I have wanted you as Jareth has had you," he interrupted. Sarah's face turned to frightened shock. How did he know about her and Jareth? Saerin laughed to himself, retaining his hold on her hands, keeping them above her head. Sarah was frantic, and she became so scared that her eyes stung with tears. She looked up at Saerin but her vision was clouded in tears, all she saw was a liquified form on top of her. Her erratic heartbeat was taking control over her entire body. She looked down toward her legs and remembered that they were in between his, giving her a perfect opportunity.
"Saerin," she managed to whisper, and he looked down at her with a sly look of empowerment on his face. The tears were now streaking down her face as he cocked his head to one side.
"Do you wish to be let go?" he asked, running his free hand up her stomach. When his hand reached her breasts, she made her move.
"Yes!" she screamed, and bent one leg up quickly, hitting in the groin with as much force as she could muster. Saerin cried out, moaning in pain as he let her hands go momentarily. She took advantage of him being distracted and pulled herself out from under him. Then, she wasted no time as she jumped to her feet and ran toward the door. Saerin waved a hand from behind her, and when she tried to turn the handle, the door remained closed.
"You really believe..." Saerin whispered, slowly pulling himself up from the chair, "That it is that easy. Just run out the door, and you shall be safe..." He was now walking toward her swiftly.
"Let me go, Saerin. I knew I should have listened to Jareth when he told me not to trust you. Damn it, let me out of here!" she screamed, shaking the door handle over and over, as if it would eventually give way. Saerin winced as he walked, allowing her the satisfaction of knowing she did some damage. He kept walking until he was a few inches from her. She backed up against the door and tried to move left. Saerin slammed a hand against the door as a block. Her eyes slanted, then she turned and tried to move right. His other hand shot up and slammed against the door as well, blocking her only two ways of escape.
"I sincerely advise you not to try that again, Sarah," he whispered, leaning in closer to her. She turned her face away, and tried to move back farther, but it was no use.
"I was wrong about you Saerin. When Jareth hears about thi--Ah...!" She was cut short as Saerin hit her across the face once again. Then, he laughed as if to say 'I dare you.'
"You mention so much as a single word to him, and I will make sure that you never say anything again," Saerin said, his eyes flashing with haughty reassurance. Snatching her hands with his, he quickly arranged both of her wrists in his left hand. As he lifted them above her head and pinned them against the door, his right hand shoved her back against the door. Then he began to slowly pull her skirt up.
"What are you--ow!" she tried to retaliate, but Saerin tightened his grip on her wrists so much that her skin burned and her arms throbbed. The corner of her mouth had began to show the blood from when he hit her, as well as her nose. Saerin noticed this, and he leaned in close to her. She tried to turn away, cringing as she felt his hot tongue lap at the blood on her lower lip. And before she could attempt another attack, Saerin's mouth covered hers. Sarah panicked as she felt his tongue invade her mouth, meshing itself forcefully with hers. She began to feel Saerin's other hand creep up her thigh, and slide underneath her panties. He kept his mouth locked to hers, moving his fingers over her vaginal opening. Sarah cried into his mouth and even tried to push him off of her, but to no avail. Her body shifted as she felt his fingers slip inside her. She whimpered when he released her mouth, then she looked away from him, biting her lip.
She gasped as she felt his hand going up and down, his fingers twisting and prodding around within her. Then suddenly, Saerin removed his fingers, and let go of her wrists. She thought he was letting her go, but she could not have been farther from the truth. Saerin put her skirt back down, fixing it so that it looked untouched. Then his arm curved as he offered it to her.
"I am not telling you, I am warning you. Saw one word to anyone here, and you will dearly regret it, Sarah. We go back to the party, and we excuse ourselves for the night." His eyes still flickered with lust, pain, and authority. She glared at him and reluctantly interlocked her arm with his. Brushing away the blood that was draining from her nose, Saerin bent in toward her and licked the remainder of blood from her lips. She clenched her teeth and wrinkled her nose in disgust and hatred. Although, she was more scared than angry. She had every right to be furious with Saerin for doing what he did, but she couldn't stop him. If she tried, who would believe her except Jareth? Jareth had influence, but in a case like this, she would need more than Jareth's help to have her come out the victor.
They quickly exited the room, and re-entered the large banquet hall. There were still many guests dancing, or talking in small groups in various places around the room. Saerin held her tightly to him as they approached the ball's hostess. She noticed them right away and turned from her group to acknowledge them.
"Ah, Lord Saerin! Are you enjoying yourself?" she asked happily, smiling toward him and Sarah.
"I can not remember a party where you have been the host and I did not enjoy myself, Katharine," Saerin said in a truthful tone that made Sarah sick.
"Oh dear brother, I do believe you are trying to flatter me!" Katharine replied playfully.
"You flatter yourself all on your own sister. But alas, I am afraid that I may have enjoyed myself too much, you see. I have grown tired and I do have important errands to attend to tomorrow," Saerin said, his tone overwhelmingly believable. Sarah feared that if Saerin had not given his true self away to her, she would have never known he was lying through his teeth. Sarah grinded her teeth, but tried to keep a smile on her face as Katharine turned toward her.
"So are you to accompany Lord Saerin on his way home?" she asked.
"No," Sarah said between her teeth as she continued to grind them. Seeing Katharine's confused expression, and realizing how rude she had to have sounded, Sarah bowed her head in apology. "I didn't mean to snap at you Countess. I suppose you can blame it on the fatigue. But no, Saerin will see me to my residence, and then he will return to his," Sarah finished, wrapping up her end of the conversation.
"Goodnight, Katharine," Saerin said, taking her hand to his lips. Sarah nearly threw up. Saerin had fooled her for so long, that she had become oblivious to his schemes. Just before they turned to leave, she got a bad feeling. So, she craned her neck back, and it was just in time to see Phaedra. She barely saw what the woman was wearing, and all she could make out were the tell-tale exotic features that made her stand out when they first met. Phaedra had a look on her face that told Sarah she knew what was going on. As Saerin began leading her toward the exit, Sarah saw Phaedra's mouth curl into a sadistic smile. But before Sarah could see anymore, Saerin had pulled her from the room. Quickly, Saerin pulled her down the hallway with him, never slowing down or stopping. When they had finally reached the outside, Sarah yanked her arm away from him.
"Let go of me!" she exclaimed. But Saerin only laughed when he saw the disdainful expression on her face.
"Sarah, you have managed to somehow surprise me tonight. But if you really believe that 'I will see you to your residence, and I will return to mine,' you are sorely mistaken. We will be going to your residence, only I will be staying there with you." He flashed her one of his flirtatious smiles, which she didn't buy into this time.
"So are you gonna stay in the castle and keep an eye on me so I don't tell anyone who you really are?" Sarah shot back sarcastically. Saerin chuckled, tilting his head to one side.
"You may call it that, if you wish." Then he wrapped his fingers around her arms tightly, and she immediately began fighting him. "You wish to be left behind then?" he said impatiently. Sarah was beginning to feel terrified about the way he answered her question before. She sighed, knowing she would have to go with him because she couldn't stay there all night. She had no idea where she was or if she could make it back to the castle on her own. She allowed Saerin to pull her back to him. Suddenly, she held her breath as she felt herself being transported away from the estate.
When they had returned to Jareth's castle, Sarah's heart began to pound again. Even in Jareth's household, with the two of them in love, it still did not give her any authority so make him leave. Saerin could do anything he wanted because Jareth was not there to stop him.
"Jareth really needs to redecorate," Saerin said, looking around in distaste.
"May I go to bed now?" Sarah said harshly, pulling herself from his grasp.
"Oh yes, of course. Where are your quarters by the way?" he asked casually. But before she could answer, he grabbed her wrist and began walking, pulling her relentlessly behind him.
"Ow! What the hell do you think you're doing?! Just leave me alone!" she screamed. Sarah suddenly came to the realization that the servants all had quarters in the city, they did not sleep or even live in the castle at all. Jareth strictly forbade anyone but himself and or his invited guests to be in the castle after hours. She was completely at Saerin's mercy. She felt the tears begin building up once again, but this time they didn't pool around her lashes, the began to simply drain from her eyes.
"You want to play these childish human games with me, Sarah? I will show you how the fae handle human games," he growled. He began picking up his pace as he walked across the dining hall, past Jareth's office, past Phaedra's room, and past several more empty rooms. He stopped in front of a row of doors, and pulled her in front of him.
"Saerin...please, don't do this..." Sarah pleaded, but Saerin smiled sarcastically, and pushed her toward the doors.
"Which one is yours?" he said flatly, crossing his arms over his chest as he waited for her to answer him. Sarah wiped away a flood of tears, and weakly pointed to her left. She felt her legs giving out, and she wanted to make Saerin go away. But she knew it wouldn't happen the way she wanted it. But before she knew it, Saerin had scooped her into his arms and carried her over to the door she had identified as the one to her room.
"Saerin! No! Put me down! Just please, leave me alone!" Sarah cried, kicking her legs and trying to use her hands to make it more difficult for him to concentrate. Saerin lifted his foot up and kicked her door in, knocking it completely off its hinges. Sarah screamed as the door hit the ground with a hard thump. Saerin walked into the room and stopped at the end of her bed, throwing her onto it. Sarah sniffed back more tears as she tried to steady herself, scooting herself up to the headboard.
"Sarah, do not be afraid of me. I just want to find out what Jareth has been teaching you," he whispered, as he began to remove his clothing.
"Saerin no..." she said as calmly as possible. But her spirit was breaking as she watched him removed his trousers, his shirt, and his boots and threw them to the floor. She couldn't even fathom what he would or could do to her, she knew rape was real in her world, but she never imagined it would exist in Jareth's. She breathed in deeply, and tried to talk him out of it. "No one will ever find out about tonight...I swear, just please don't do this..."
"You know, Sarah, I have never met anyone who has intrigued me as much as you," he began, walking over to the bed. "But I have also never had the chance to take advantage of an incredibly beautiful creature such as yourself. I have had many women, and all of them I will admit, were exceptional at what they did to please me. But you are different."
"Saerin...please," she whispered, pulling her dress tightly around her as if it was a force field that would keep him away. Saerin climbed onto the bed in front of her and grabbed her ankles. "Saerin don't!" she cried, trying to push his hands away with hers. But he had to tight of a hold on her, and, moving his legs apart, he pulled her underneath him. Suddenly, he didn't care about being quiet anymore. He knew that they were alone in the castle, and the nearest occupant of the castle that would hear them were those in the village.
"Now this should not be too bad for you Sarah, it will all happen very fast," Saerin said, reaching up and tearing away the straps on her shoulders. Sarah pulled her hands up across her chest to keep the dress from falling. This must have made him angry, because he snatched her arms away from her chest. He held them hard against the pillows above her head. He also made sure they stayed crossed so it made it easier to hold them and harder for her to fight back. Sarah let the tears flow freely as he ripped the bodice off and tossed it to the floor. He began to tear the skirt from her waist, not caring if he ruined it, and she felt him harden against her stomach. Finally, pulling, he pulled the skirt off and threw that to the floor with the rest of their clothing. He stopped and looked her over, and her body began to shiver. Although, not from the room being cold, but from fright and hopelessness. He wet his lips, and ran his fingers over her breasts, then her abdomen, and finally her legs.
"Please let me go, Saerin," she begged, closing her legs tight as if she were trying to deter him from that part of her body. The horrible feeling she had was completely undescribable, and she was more terrified than she had ever been of anything in her life. He looked down at her lower waist, then back up at her, shaking his head.
"You are incredible, Sarah. Now I understand why Jareth is so possessive of you," he said, tracing his fingers over her lips and down her throat. Sarah swallowed hard, feeling his body touch hers made her try to make believe it was Jareth. But she knew better than that, Jareth would never have talked to her that way or treated her so harshly. She closed her eyes and rolled her head to one side, not wanting to watch as Saerin slowly placed his hand between her legs and spread them apart. She tried to pull them back together but he held them steady, and he settled himself in between her thighs. He smiled with satisfaction as he cupped one of her breasts and pinched the soft nipple between his fingers, but he pinched so hard that Sarah cried out in pain. He moved his head down to place rough, wet kisses on her stomach. Sarah squirmed, trying foolishly to make him stop, but he continued. He moved up higher and let his tongue slip out to leave a wet trail of lust across her breasts.
"Stop. Please..." she half sobbed, trying to pull her hands free as she wriggled beneath his weight. Then he brought his tongue higher up, dragging it across her neck, and finally up to her mouth. "Sae--" he had silenced her with one movement, their mouths meeting hard as Saerin shoved his tongue past her lips. Sarah could do nothing but make sounds that proved she didn't like what he was doing, and that she wanted him to end it. But, she knew he had the strong determination that Jareth had told her about only days ago. If she would have only listened. Saerin's tongue searched her mouth hungrily, as if it was on an endless quest for something it would never find. He twisted his tongue around hers, and forced her to kiss him back, giving her no choice or she wouldn't have been able to breath. When he finally pulled his lips from hers, she automatically turned away from him, not giving up the fight in trying to pull her hands free.
"Alright, Sarah..." he whispered in between gasps for breath, "enough fooling around. It is time for the real fun to begin," he now whispered into her ear, feeling her thighs tense up around him. He groaned, obviously aroused. Pulling himself up slightly, he positioned himself just slightly inside her. Sarah whimpered, her sobbing progressed to crying as he lifted her legs and wrapped them around his waist. He was still for a moment, and Sarah looked up at him, hoping maybe he had reconsidered. Then, without warning, she felt him throw his body forward as he entered her fully. Sarah screamed, and Saerin seemed to get nothing more than pure pleasure from causing her sexual pain as he continued to drive himself deeper within her. He finally freed her arms, and she was so weak from fighting him that she just wrapped her fingers around his arms and clung tightly with each movement of his hips. Sarah's muscled tensed up, which made her pain more frequent as he pumped harder and faster with each thrust. Her face was stained with tears, and Saerin showed no signs of stopping his painful endeavor as he covered her mouth with his once again. He pounded his hips against her as she dug her nails into his arm, tears quickly streaming down her face leaving black tracks from her mascara. Sarah's moaning mixed with her sobbing, and it seemed only to heighten his pleasure. He felt her tighten around him as he moved her legs higher around his waist.
"Saerin...plea...please..." she whispered, still squirming slightly. She was breathing was heavy, although she was feeling no pleasure or satisfaction from the experience. She just wanted it to be over with so he would leave her alone. As he quickly reached his point of sheer ecstasy, he pushed once more against her, and then he released that ecstasy inside of her. His body shook as he did so, and he finally collapsed on top of her. Sarah did nothing but break down into tears, as if she had not already cried enough. Her body jumped as she sobbed and her breath came in shaky gasps. She took her hands away from him and let them rest on the bed next to her. Saerin slowly moved his body out from between her legs and rolled over onto his side, facing her as she lay on her back. Sarah let her legs fall back together, but she didn't bother to move anymore after that, she lie motionless. Her makeup had long since been smeared about her face, and her hair was matted and tangled.
She closed her eyes and tried to concentrate on nothing but Jareth. What would they do when they got married? What would their wedding be like, or their children? But no matter how hard she tried, she couldn't block out what had just happened, nor could she think about anything else. She threw her arm out and grabbed a loose sheet, pulling it over her now defiled body. She pulled the sheet up to her face and tried to wipe the tear stains away, leaving black and gray marks on the white fabric. She curled up and moved as far away from Saerin as she could, tugging the sheet around her tightly. She felt so ashamed of herself, and she literally felt like a whore. She had failed to stay true to Jareth's belief in her, and she managed to completely fall under Saerin's spell again. Even after Jareth warned her about him, she felt so stupid for being as naïve and stubborn as she was. She wanted to show Phaedra up, but she only showed herself up. What would she tell Jareth when he returned? How would she explain this to him? He would never want to touch her or even associate with her after finding that Saerin had had his way with her. Her once ridden suicidal tendencies returned with a passion, but she couldn't bring herself to move. Her body ached and she could already feel that she would have bruises in the morning. Visible bruises that she wouldn't be able to hide. Eventually, her mind clouded with too many thoughts at once, and it began to shut down, carrying her into a deep and very highly sought after sleep.
by Jacqui
Note - All the original characters do NOT belong to me, although the rest of them do. Last names of those characters who didn't or don't have them are entirely fictional. This is my first attempt at Labyrinth fan fiction, so reviews would be really nice and appreciated. This story is mostly based on the movie, but there's a few elements from the book thrown in here and there. I read Labyrinth analyses, various fan fiction, and also came up with my own conclusions and ideas. So, this entire story will entail all three of those sources of information. It may be weird, it may be good, either way, as I mentioned before...feedback is always appreciated and adored. :) Oh yeah, Jim Henson, Brian Froud, and everyone who had a hand in creating this movie are geniuses.
README - I wanted to address your question Xelena. Corsets ARE typically done in back, and of course by someone else. Helori was the one who did her corset up for her in that chapter. Remember? At least I don't know of anyone who can do corsets up by themselves, if they can, I'd love to know their secret. Thanks guys for all your support. I'm planning on making this fic at least 30 chapters long, so we're in for quite a ride. Don't lose hope on me yet, I've got the passion back for Labyrinth fiction, and I'm hoping I can make it interesting for you guys. I'll also try and make the chapters longer, this one here will be pretty lengthy.
README AGAIN - What do you guys think about these characters I created? Are they interesting? Do they annoy you? Would you love to meet them or would you love to blow their brains out? Let me know in further chapter reviews if you could please. I love reader feedback. As unworthy as I feel of those hundreds of reviews other Labby fiction is getting, I would love to reach that amount! I saw one with 700 something reviews...whoa. I'm green with envy.
Chapter 11: An Unfortunate Predicament
The following morning, Sarah awoke to find Jareth in the same position he was in before she had fallen asleep. He didn't seem to notice her because his path of vision was glued on a single crystal ball that rolled from one hand to the other in a continuous pattern. His eyes slanted, then widened as he watched the clear orb go back and forth. Sarah leaned over and kissed him on the cheek. At that moment, she broke his concentration and the ball dropped into his lap.
"Good morning, your Majesty," she said in a girlish voice. Jareth smiled, and kissed her gently on the lips.
"How is your arm?" he asked. Sarah looked down at her arm and her mouth dropped open. The bruise, as well as the pain had completely disappeared.
"Jareth...did you--"
"I felt that my apology was not enough to make up for it, so I used a little magic." Sarah smiled, brushing the spot on her arm where the bruise used to be.
"Thank you," she said happily, wrapping her arms around him. He chuckled as he embraced her in return.
"A little magic never hurt anyone," he whispered, kissing her forehead. As she pulled away from him, her eyes fell back on the crystal ball still lying in his lap.
"Is that the--"
"As a matter of fact," Jareth interrupted, pulling her back toward him, "it is the same crystal. Do you still want it?" he asked, hiding a smirk.
"You mean if I promise to fear you, love you, and do as you say...you'll be my slave?" she replied, trying to keep the moment at least half serious.
"On the contrary, Sarah my darling, I have been your slave since the day you returned to me..." he shot back, a grin tugging at the corners of his mouth.
"I beg to differ with you, Goblin King. Who exactly do you think has been dragged around the entire castle, man handled, and ordered around since they came back to you?" They both found it hard to hide the comical undertones of their entire conversation. Sarah raised a brow, awaiting her next argument. But Jareth quickly grabbed her legs, twisted her around to face him and pulled her legs around his waist. He bent down over her, and pinned her hands down on the bed.
"Is this what you presumed to mean by 'man handled,' Sarah?" he said jokingly, as she laughed and tried to fight him.
"As a matter of fact," she began to reply, but was cut short as Jareth's mouth covered hers. She gasped playfully and tried to pull away. Suddenly, they heard a knock at the door.
"Your Majesty?" came an unsure voice from behind the thick wooden door.
"It's Helori," Sarah giggled as Jareth sighed and pulled himself off of her.
"My work is never done around this place," he whispered to himself as he began to get dressed.
"Will you be gone all day?" she cooed in a pouty voice, scooting off the bed as she wrapped a sheet around her.
"Unfortunately, Sarah...I may be gone for a much longer duration. You see I--" he stopped as he saw Sarah's features melt into a melancholy state.
"So I'm going to be alone with Phaedra for more than 24--no, 25 hours?" she mumbled.
"I have two peace treaty meetings I must attend. One between the fae and the gnomes, and the other between the fae and the elves. A pact with those two colonies could mean a great deal for the fae kingdom. Although, I am also doing this for you as well. The council requested that I meet with them this afternoon concerning your rising in status. I did not have the time to tell you last night, that they have agreed to a council meeting. But I do have something else I want to tell you, Sarah. I do not want your status to go to that of a civilian..."
"What do you..."
"I will see to it, that your status be moved much higher than that." Jareth's eyes penetrated hers, and she knew he was serious. But, she began to protest, knowing better than to believe what he was saying so easily.
"Jareth, that's virtually imposs--"
"I am asking you to be my wife, Sarah."
"Your..."
"My wife, yes. I have no intention of letting you go again," he said sincerely. Sarah just stood there staring at him as if she had never seen him before. Then, he slowly walked up to her and placed both hands on either side of her face. She looked at him, but her face was expressionless. Then, as if she had come back to life, realization flooded her features.
"The courts would never allow us to marry would they, Jareth? We're from different worlds...even different races...I'll be shunned. They won't recognize it as legal...your parents won't--"
"The courts have no authority over who I choose to marry," he interrupted, "although they do have the authority to accept or deny a request for higher status."
"But--"
"Trust me, Sarah," he whispered, kissing her softly between the eyes.
"I couldn't put you through all that pressure, Jareth...I just..."
"You need time to think about it, then. I understand, Sarah. When I return, hopefully you will have made up your mind about accepting my proposal. I regret that I can not give you even an estimate as to when I shall return, but I hope it is not long. It pains me to be away from you so long." He let his hands fall back down to his sides, but she continued to look at him with so many unspoken questions.
"I do need some time, Jareth, that fact alone scares me. What I'm up against...what you're up against..." she sighed.
"Well maybe this will aide you in your decision..." he responded, taking her hand and holding it palm upward. Placing his hand over hers, then pulling it away, revealed a beautiful ruby colored diamond ring. Seeing the ring made her so breathless that she couldn't even gasp at its beauty.
"Jareth..."
"I promise I will return soon. Hopefully, when I do, we shall be making wedding arrangements..." he said, as he turned and walked toward the door.
"Jareth!" she called after him. And turning around almost immediately, he responded.
"Yes, Sarah?"
"I'll be waiting," she breathed.
"I know," he nodded, concluding the conversation as he turned and left the room. Sarah sank back onto the bed, the ring still resting on her palm. She squeezed her hand closed, holding the ring up to her heart.
"You know I'll marry you Jareth...the problem is...will we ever be happy if we do it...?" Sarah sighed. He wasn't even gone for more than a few seconds and she already missed him terribly. In her world they probably would have already been married, and they would be happy. But she was now in a world unlike that of the one she was born into, and things were done differently. She fell back onto the bed as she imagined what it might be like if things could ever happen the way they did in her dreams. Would she and Jareth ever be truly happy?
Jareth paced in front of the Great Hall of the Seelie Court. He had no idea how he would present his case to the elders, but he knew he had to think of something quickly. The only thing he could think of was if he declared himself separate from his parents and their estates. The technically meant that he would be disowning his entire lineage. Which, he neither wanted to do, nor could do. He saw no reason for it. He sighed and looked up at the clock behind him, it was nearly 2 o'clock in the afternoon. All at once, he heard a loud bell sound twice as the two incredibly large double wooden doors swung open.
"Come forth and make yourself known," came a voice from the front of the room in which Jareth now peered into with widened eyes. He took in a deep breath, and then released it as he walked through the doors. He continued down a long stretch of walkway before he knelt down in front of a tall pew on one knee, crossed an arm over his chest, and bowed his head.
"Your Majesty, I am honored to be in your presence. I am Jareth, King of the Goblin realm."
"You may rise, Jareth. We have seen you quite often these past few days, I am interested to find out what you have come to us for this time," a different voice chimed in, sounding skeptical.
"I have come on behalf of my servant, Sarah. I wish to discuss her change of status more thoroughly," he said cordially, standing with his back straight and his arms firmly at his sides.
"More thoroughly? What do you speak of?" the lead elder asked in a booming voice, making Jareth jump slightly.
"I simply ask to withdraw my previous request in order to bring forth a new one," he said, trying to stay in control of his already nervous stature. "I wish to have her status higher, but not to that of a citizen of my kingdom. But, to that of a Countess." Jareth listened intently as gasps and whispered conversation filled the large white-washed room. The lead elder hushed the others around him, and cleared his throat.
"You do realize of course that this title you have mentioned is only attainable through hereditary or royal affiliations?" he said to Jareth, raising a brow.
"I do, Your Majesty," Jareth replied, bowing his head, "I have affiliations with her. I am a king, she has requested my services and is indebted to me, and therefore I made her my royal servant."
"I am correct when I say that this woman is mortal?"
"Yes, Your Majesty. She is a mortal from the world above."
"She also resides in your castle?"
"Yes, Your Majesty."
"It is usually forbidden to give such a high rank to anyone outside of a royal lineage. Your parents and I have been allies for many years, they are very upstanding individuals within not only their kingdom, but that of the Seelie Court. Furthermore, I trust you know what comes with the responsibilities of being a King, you being one yourself. I believe you to be a very honorable member of the fae kingdom, you have never faltered in your position, nor have you given the Seelie Court any reason to question your authority or your reign. I am sure you have just motive for requesting that a mortal's status be higher than that of those who are barely citizens and have been part of the fae kingdom for years. Hopefully, you will soon enlighten us."
"In due time, Your Majesty," Jareth said plainly. The elder nodded, tapping a finger on his lips.
"She knows and understands the duties which are required of a Countess, does she not?"
"Yes, Your Majesty. I have explained them to her outright, and I have seen to it that she's perfected them before I approached you with this request."
"Has she chosen the county in which she wishes to govern?"
"I have but one in my kingdom, Your Majesty, I suppose she will have to be Countess of just that one." The elder nodded, scratching his head with his index finger.
"If you will excuse us Jareth, we need a moment to discuss this matter, then we shall return with our decision," the elder said, looking at Jareth with a blank stare.
"Of course, Your Majesty," he nodded. When the group of men had finally left the room, Jareth expected them back within a few moments. Those moments, turned into several hours. Jareth nearly fell asleep waiting for them to file back into the room. It was nearly 7 o'clock when they had finally re-entered and sat down behind the pew in front of him.
"Jareth, it is our decision that we can not object to your request. After all, we here within the Seelie Court do stand behind the Seelie Code and regard it highly. We have in the past, and continue to strive for the chance to link our world with that of the mortal one we had at once been a part of. This woman Sarah, may prove to be of great benefit to us. But under no circumstances, if she manages to take severe action against the title we bestow upon her, shall we think twice about condemning her. You must realize that she is not of our kind, Jareth, mortals are still a great deal untrustworthy and dangerous to us regardless of our desire to connect with them. As of now, Sarah will hold the title of Countess, but if she should take advantage of it..."
"I understand, your Majesty. I thank you for taking your own time to honor me with this priviledge," Jareth nodded.
"Then you are dismissed, Jareth." He bowed once again, then silently turned and exited the Great Hall. As the doors shut with a loud thud, Jareth sighed heavily, knowing that his biggest obstacle had been passed. Now, he had to journey to the gnome kingdom. He disliked the fact that he had to spend a few days in the king's presence in both kingdoms in order to gain their trust and understanding, then work his way up toward the signing of treaties. He wanted to get back to Sarah as soon as possible in order to fill her in on her new status, and what was required of her to uphold it. He was very surprised that the courts were so easily convinced into accepting his request. Nevertheless, he just hoped the days would fly by so he could return to Sarah.
Sarah stared at the ring as she placed it on her vanity table. She watched the way it glittered as the sun poured in on it from the only window in her room. She sighed, thinking about the night before as some pleasurable, but very strange dream. Laughing to herself she had just realized that the room her and Jareth had made love in both times, was Phaedra's.
"Miss? Oh my, that is quite a ring, that didn't come from anywhere around here...it's so beautiful!" Helori said, looking over her shoulder.
"You are right about that, Helori...it didn't come from anywhere around here..." she whispered, smiling.
"Will you need anything washed, miss?"
"Yeah, it's over there," Sarah said, pointing behind her. Helori scurried over in that direction and picked up the clothing she found lumped in the corner.
"You should get some rest, miss, you look like you have not slept for days!" Helori said as she hurried toward the door. Sarah looked up into her mirror and smirked, Helori was right. She may have slept last night, but it didn't show on her face. She shrugged finally, and then stood up from her seat.
"I have nothing else to do," she said to herself, walking over and flopping down onto her bed. She missed Jareth like crazy, she sighed again, resting an arm on her forehead. She closed her eyes and imagined how different her life would be if she were Jareth's wife. She would be a queen, and of higher status than even that wretched Phaedra! Before long, Sarah had fallen asleep, her heart and mind both heavy with the new feeling of possibly becoming something more than she had ever hoped for.
For the next three days Sarah drudged around the castle, doing what the maids normally did, but she didn't know what else to do in such a big place all by herself. Phaedra had not come out of her room since she had returned the day after Jareth left. It scared her somewhat, but it also gave her a sense of relief not to have to deal with the woman's constant bickering and animosity.
Although, on the fourth day of Jareth's absence, Sarah had been walking down the hallway toward her quarters when she noticed Saerin standing outside of Phaedra's room. They were apparently discussing a get together of some sort, but that was all she was able to hear. Instead of hiding behind a wall to eavesdrop, as she was not interested at all in anything concerning Phaedra, she pretended as if she didn't notice them and kept walking.
"Ah, Lady Sarah, just the woman I wanted to see," Saerin blurted out as she approached them. Phaedra poked her head outside the door and glared at Sarah, obviously irritated that she had to share even the same air with her. Saerin wasn't supposed to be in the castle, so Sarah began to question how he got into the castle again.
"How did you--"
"I invited him. Is there a problem?" Phaedra cut in. Sarah ignored her, smiling.
"Hello, Saerin. Beautiful day isn't it?" Sarah said happily.
"Until you showed up," Phaedra said, finally.
"Now now, Phaedra, you do not want to be the cause of Jareth's wrath when he finds out you two are not getting along, do you?" Saerin said jokingly, as he and Phaedra began to laugh.
"Of course not, although his wrath can be fun sometimes, especially when he is the one in control," Phaedra replied, grinning sarcastically at Sarah. Sarah grimaced as she remembered that Phaedra and Jareth were once an intimate couple, and she became bothered about how Phaedra could talk so freely about his sex life.
"If you will excuse me, I have things to do," Sarah spat, attempting to walk around the both of them. But Saerin stepped out in front of her.
"Actually, Sarah, I wanted to invite you to our formal ball tonight. It is in celebration of the treaty between us fae and the gnomes being successful. You are on the guest list, so I hope you will not decline my offer," Saerin said as-a-matter-of-factly. Phaedra scoffed, rolling her eyes as the both of them awaited Sarah's answer.
"Well, I..." she began to say no, but looked at Phaedra and saw how disgusted she was, "I wouldn't miss it," she finished, looking back at Saerin.
"Perfect. Since Jareth will not be attending this ball due to him being preoccupied with the treaty between us and the elves, will you do me the honor of allowing me to be your escort?" Sarah looked disappointed, but she smiled and nodded.
"I will be there, but I will be coming late...my escort will not be back from business until after the ball has started," Phaedra said nonchalantly.
"If you will excuse me, Saerin, if I am to go to a ball, I don't plan on looking like something the cat drug in," Sarah said sweetly. Saerin nodded, and Sarah moved past the both of them and continued to her room. After she had slipped inside and shut the door, Phaedra and Saerin looked at once another with smiles of accomplishment.
Sarah rushed around her room, trying things on, then taking them off. She began to get frustrated as she scanned the floor, looking for something she might have missed. Then, finding absolutely nothing, she threw her hands up in disgust as she heaved a big sigh of hopelessness. Just then, Helori burst into the room with something in her arms.
"Miss, oh my, Master Saerin has brought you a gift!"
"Ah! Can't you knock!? I might be naked in here...or doing something else...important..." Sarah snapped. Helori just smiled and shrugged.
"You do not have anything that I have yet to see, miss," she replied. Sarah rolled her eyes, waving the conversation away.
"What has 'Master Saerin' brought me?" she asked as Helori handed her a light colored box.
"He brought me a box?" Sarah blinked, pulling the lid off. She gasped as her eyes fell on what was inside. It was a dress in bright blue and gold colors. As she pulled the dress from the box and held it in front of her, she stared in amazement. The entire bodice was made from a shiny metallic gold fabric, as was the skirt. All around the hem of the skirt there were small blue bows with dangling ribbons, while the waist had a small gold chain encircling it. The top had no sleeves, but thick bands that went over the shoulders. The neckline curved downward and rounded out just above the area where her cleavage would be. Helori tapped Sarah on the arm as she handed her the matching gold gloves and slippers. The shoes weren't as spectacular as the dress, but they were still far more beautiful than anything she ever owned back home. The fabric of the slippers was gold, but it had a blue tint to it as she turned the slippers this way and that. The gloves reached as long as the entire length of her arms, and they were the same metallic yellow color. She noticed that there was a large blue bow with several ribbons hanging from it on the top-front portion of each glove.
She smiled, hurrying Helori out of the room. Once she was alone, she quickly slipped into the dress, which fit her perfectly. She sighed in relief that she didn't have to wear that blasted corset this time! She eagerly stepped into the shiny slippers, and pulled the gloves on snuggly. The dress felt good against her body, and the gloves were incredibly soft. She spun around several times, watching the ribbons fly around with her. But as she stopped and looked at herself in the mirror, she realized that her hair and makeup had yet to be done.
"Damn," she whispered. "Helori! Could you--"
"Yes miss!" Helori replied, exploding back through the door as if she had read Sarah's mind. Sarah stood in confusion for a moment, wondering how such a small young goblin could manage to stay employed by Jareth so long if she went around barreling into everyone's rooms the way she did.
"Can you make my hair match this dress?" she said quickly, taking a seat at her vanity. Then she spilled her makeup out in front of her.
"Of course miss. How does a braided bun in the back with loose sections of hair in the front sound?" Helori schemed, just as excited as if she were attending the ball herself.
"You get to work and so will I," Sarah replied, closing an eye so she could apply a light blue shading. Helori bound her hair into a ponytail in the back, and quickly, but neatly began to braid it. Sarah finished one eye, then moved to the next. After she finished shadowing, she began applying the mascara-like liquid that came not in a tube, but a small dish. She had a hard time with the wands they used for their mascara, they didn't have several bristles like hers did at home. They were more like lash separators with thick prongs. Once she had the mascara on fairly well, she puckered her lips and began painting on a clear, sparkling substance. She remembered how Helori explained to her that she should put on a thin layer instead of a thick one, mainly because it would be too shiny and people would look away from her instead of at her. And that wasn't the reason for wearing it, you want to draw attention when you decorate your lips, not shun it. Helori had just finished pulling the loose strands of hair around her face and fixing it into a neat display. As Sarah stood up, she stepped away from the vanity and let Helori get a better look at her. She turned around and posed from side to side.
"Oh miss, you are truly beautiful," Helori said in awe. "I do envy you..."
"Thank you Helori," Sarah said with a grateful smile. "I do appreciate all your help, without you, sometimes I wouldn't look half as good as I do when you get through with me." Sarah posed a few more times, and as Helori was clapping they both heard a light knock on the door.
"Miss Sarah?" they heard Saerin's voice call, his voice unsure.
"Yes, Saerin, I'm coming!" Sarah called back. "Helori, hurry and run along. Thank you again, I couldn't have done this without you," Sarah whispered once more to the beaming maid.
"Oh miss, that is what I am here for! There is no need to thank me," Helori said, obviously so entranced by Sarah's beauty that she didn't mind being shooed away. Helori quickly left the room, and Sarah heard her making apologies and assuring Saerin that she would be out shortly. Sarah waited for a moment before she darted to the door and pulled it open.
"Good evening," Sarah said, smiling. Saerin's jaw literally dropped a few inches as she stepped out of her room and quietly shut the door behind her. "It's beautiful. Thank you, Saerin."
"It looks better now than when I had sent it to you," he whispered, "you look incredibly breathtaking, my dear." Sarah blushed a deep red as Saerin offered his arm to her. She looked him over, and he looked incredible. He wore smoky black trousers that fit him very nicely, and his boots were a perfect coal black. His midnight blue shirt had frilly cuffs, and very loosely fitted sleeves. The shirt had a V neckline that could be laced up, but was left open. The laces dangled there, as if begging to really be done up. His hair was tied back into a neat ponytail at the nape of the neck. He wore a black vest around the blue shirt, making him look very mysterious and romantic. Sarah began to float off into another world just looking at him, but snapped back to her senses as Saerin cleared his throat.
"Oh, Saerin, I'm sure I won't compare to the other hundreds of beautiful women you'll see at the ball when we get there..."
"I sincerely doubt that, my lady. Most of the women in the Seelie Court I haven't the faintest interest in, or they are married, courting, or just not interested in beginning a courtship at all. So, I am afraid that my limitations have been heightened to the maximum expectancy in that department." Sarah looked over at him in complete confusion, slipping her arm through his. "In other words, I do not have a very big selection to choose from," he concluded, catching on to her blank expression.
"Oh," she laughed, and they began to walk toward the large castle doors.
"Has Jareth used magic with you? I really do not feel like walking the entire way, the location is not far, but nevertheless..." Saerin said, looking toward her as she looked at him.
"Many times. I think he prefers it that way."
"Good, I believe I prefer it that way as well. We have the power to use magic, why not do so I always say." Then, Saerin slipped an arm around Sarah's waist, and took one of her hands into his.
"Will this be any different from Jareth's methods of transportation?" Sarah asked coyly.
"Not that I know of. Except my method will probably get us to our destination faster," he joked, and Sarah laughed lightly. "Hold on," he said, and within seconds, the two of them began fading, until the were completely gone.
The moment Sarah arrived at the ball, she began feeling incomplete. Without Jareth, she felt that she had no reason to be there. But, as she was escorted around to each little gathering of individuals and introduced, the better acquainted she became with everyone. She talked and laughed with those she found to be interested in her. When they brought up a subject about something she didn't understand or knew nothing about, Saerin would step in and change the flow of conversation to something she was able to talk about. Most of the women there, fortunately, did not give her stares or look distastefully at her. She was worried that she may look a bit too overdressed or maybe she revealed too much of her body. Saerin really made her self-consciousness fade away into the background. The entire night was going fairly well for her, and she even got to meet some high ranking officials that were well acquainted with Saerin. She thanked Jareth for teaching her how to act around royalty and those with important titles.
She got a fairly good look around the room and was amazed at how intricate the decorations were. Each window had a tapestry shaded in robin's egg blue that hung to the floor. The walls were decorated with several pictures of different types of art and an occasional picture of a respected ancestor of the Seelie Court. The bright white of the walls made Sarah slightly dizzy, but she still explored the rest of her surroundings visually. There were large white pillars which were in each corner of the room, apparently for show rather than support of the ceiling. They each had been engraved with a long beveled oval from top to bottom, and they went all the way around the body of each pillar. The tops and bottoms flared out into squares, but in between those squares and the pillar itself, there was a block that had angels and fairies carved into it with intricate cuts. Sarah was amazed to see that the floor was made of actual marble, the pattern on each tile was a swirl of colors, the colors consisted of black, white, and gray. There were many decorations around the room, all of which shone and glittered as the heavy candlelight danced across them. Saerin nudged Sarah slightly, throwing her out of her little world of visual examination.
"Well, Sarah, Jareth is not here to prevent us from dancing this time," he grinned, "will you dance with me?" Saerin asked, feigning a humorous tone.
"Would I dare decline a duke?" she replied, offering her hand. Saerin chuckled to himself, slipping his hand under hers and curling his fingers around hers. She placed her other hand on his shoulder and he let his rest on her hip.
"So...status really counts doesn't it?" she said as they whirled about the room, conscious about other couples around them.
"That it does, my dear. I apologize if anyone here has been rude to you, but they do regard status, yes." Saerin looked truly bothered about her saddened disposition.
"When I'm with you, they talk to me as if I were really someone important...but..." she sighed as he twirled her around, then brought her back toward him.
"Sarah, my dear, you are someone important. They just do not see that, yet," he said, smiling at her. Sarah smiled lightly, feeling somewhat relieved that Saerin was there with her. Although, she wished Jareth would return so she could tell him that she had accepted his proposal long before he had ever asked her.
"So when do you think Jareth will be back?" she asked, trying to act as if it didn't matter if she received an answer or not.
"He is in the process of getting the peace treaty with the elves signed as we speak, he should return with in a day or so. Why, do you miss him?" Saerin asked sarcastically. Sarah played it off and let out a fake scoff.
"Of course not."
"Then why do you ask?" he shot back, a look of 'yeah right' on his face.
"I asked because I wanted to know how much longer I had that castle to myself before he came back and claimed it as his own again," she lied, biting the inside of her cheek.
"I see," Saerin answered plainly, pulling her closer to him by wrapping his arm around her waist. Sarah began to get nervous.
"Can we take a break?" she said, smiling to cover up her worry.
"Of course," he said, releasing her and taking her by the hand. He led her over to a corner of the room where there was a single bench, but hardly any light.
"My head is beginning to spin, Saerin...I might be getting sick," she said as she sat down and immediately became dizzy. Saerin put his hand to her forehead, then gasped as he pulled his hand away.
"You are rather hot, Sarah. I believe it is in your best interest that we go somewhere less crowded and without the loud chattering. That could be what is making you unwell," he said, making his voice echo that of extreme concern. Sarah hesitated, but felt her stomach begin to knot up, and then she nodded in agreement.
"Where can I go in such a big place?" she asked, standing up as he took her arm into his.
"Just follow me. I know this place fairly well. I used to come to balls quite often as a young man so I could flirt with all the single ladies," he chuckled, pushing open a door for her so she could step through. Sarah placed a hand to her head, biting her lip. They walked for quite some time down a wide, barely lit hallway. The lack of light helped her headache, but her stomach still twisted and turned.
"Are we--"
"Here," he said, pushing open another door and leading her through it. Sarah sighed in relief as she saw a cushioned bench, which would have probably been the equivalent of her world's fainting chairs. She hurried over to it and sat down quickly. She laid back momentarily, and Saerin kept his eyes on her as if he were making sure she was alright. After a few moments, Sarah sat back up. She was shocked to find that her stomach had settled, and the pounding in her head had been reduced to a minimal thump. Saerin looked at her as if she were going to pass out at any moment.
"I'm fine, Saerin," she laughed, "I just sometimes get weirded out when I am around tons of people in a strange place." Saerin walked over and took a seat next to her.
"Are you sure, Sarah? I do not wish to see you fall ill again..."
"Really. I'm fine. We can go back to the party now..." she replied, then began to pull herself up. But before she made it to a stand, Saerin reached out and grabbed her hand. He roughly pulled her back down next to him.
"You do not look like you are better, Sarah...you look flushed..." he said, trying to keep her there. He brought his hands to rest on each side of her face. His actions were worrying her, she didn't feel that he should be touching her at all in the manner he was now.
"No, I'm fine...I'm just tired is all," she said, placing her hands on his and attempting to remove them. Saerin did remove his hands, but after he did so, he grabbed hers and pushed her back down onto the padded bench. Pinning both of her hands above her head, he shook his head at her. Sarah gasped, and tried to pull herself free.
"I am growing tired as well, tired of your games, Sarah..."
"Saerin, what are you doing?! Let go, you're hurting me!" Sarah cried, trying to move her body so she could use her legs as a defense. Saerin, noticing this, pinned her wrists with one hand, then moved the other down to swing her legs onto the couch underneath him. Sarah squirmed, tears stinging at her eyes as she had just begun to realize why Jareth had warned her about him. He had been right all along, and she fell into his trap once again. Only, this time she couldn't get herself out of it, he was much stronger than her, and he had the advantage of using magic against anything she could have used against him. Saerin laughed evilly to himself, leaning in toward her until they were just a few inches apart.
"Do not try to fight me, Sarah. It will only get worse for you if you keep it up," he whispered against her lips as he leaned in closer. Sarah cried out, and Saerin slapped her across the face. "I suggest you not make any more racket," he said angrily.
"Why are you--"
"Because I can, Sarah. You do not know how long I have wanted you as Jareth has had you," he interrupted. Sarah's face turned to frightened shock. How did he know about her and Jareth? Saerin laughed to himself, retaining his hold on her hands, keeping them above her head. Sarah was frantic, and she became so scared that her eyes stung with tears. She looked up at Saerin but her vision was clouded in tears, all she saw was a liquified form on top of her. Her erratic heartbeat was taking control over her entire body. She looked down toward her legs and remembered that they were in between his, giving her a perfect opportunity.
"Saerin," she managed to whisper, and he looked down at her with a sly look of empowerment on his face. The tears were now streaking down her face as he cocked his head to one side.
"Do you wish to be let go?" he asked, running his free hand up her stomach. When his hand reached her breasts, she made her move.
"Yes!" she screamed, and bent one leg up quickly, hitting in the groin with as much force as she could muster. Saerin cried out, moaning in pain as he let her hands go momentarily. She took advantage of him being distracted and pulled herself out from under him. Then, she wasted no time as she jumped to her feet and ran toward the door. Saerin waved a hand from behind her, and when she tried to turn the handle, the door remained closed.
"You really believe..." Saerin whispered, slowly pulling himself up from the chair, "That it is that easy. Just run out the door, and you shall be safe..." He was now walking toward her swiftly.
"Let me go, Saerin. I knew I should have listened to Jareth when he told me not to trust you. Damn it, let me out of here!" she screamed, shaking the door handle over and over, as if it would eventually give way. Saerin winced as he walked, allowing her the satisfaction of knowing she did some damage. He kept walking until he was a few inches from her. She backed up against the door and tried to move left. Saerin slammed a hand against the door as a block. Her eyes slanted, then she turned and tried to move right. His other hand shot up and slammed against the door as well, blocking her only two ways of escape.
"I sincerely advise you not to try that again, Sarah," he whispered, leaning in closer to her. She turned her face away, and tried to move back farther, but it was no use.
"I was wrong about you Saerin. When Jareth hears about thi--Ah...!" She was cut short as Saerin hit her across the face once again. Then, he laughed as if to say 'I dare you.'
"You mention so much as a single word to him, and I will make sure that you never say anything again," Saerin said, his eyes flashing with haughty reassurance. Snatching her hands with his, he quickly arranged both of her wrists in his left hand. As he lifted them above her head and pinned them against the door, his right hand shoved her back against the door. Then he began to slowly pull her skirt up.
"What are you--ow!" she tried to retaliate, but Saerin tightened his grip on her wrists so much that her skin burned and her arms throbbed. The corner of her mouth had began to show the blood from when he hit her, as well as her nose. Saerin noticed this, and he leaned in close to her. She tried to turn away, cringing as she felt his hot tongue lap at the blood on her lower lip. And before she could attempt another attack, Saerin's mouth covered hers. Sarah panicked as she felt his tongue invade her mouth, meshing itself forcefully with hers. She began to feel Saerin's other hand creep up her thigh, and slide underneath her panties. He kept his mouth locked to hers, moving his fingers over her vaginal opening. Sarah cried into his mouth and even tried to push him off of her, but to no avail. Her body shifted as she felt his fingers slip inside her. She whimpered when he released her mouth, then she looked away from him, biting her lip.
She gasped as she felt his hand going up and down, his fingers twisting and prodding around within her. Then suddenly, Saerin removed his fingers, and let go of her wrists. She thought he was letting her go, but she could not have been farther from the truth. Saerin put her skirt back down, fixing it so that it looked untouched. Then his arm curved as he offered it to her.
"I am not telling you, I am warning you. Saw one word to anyone here, and you will dearly regret it, Sarah. We go back to the party, and we excuse ourselves for the night." His eyes still flickered with lust, pain, and authority. She glared at him and reluctantly interlocked her arm with his. Brushing away the blood that was draining from her nose, Saerin bent in toward her and licked the remainder of blood from her lips. She clenched her teeth and wrinkled her nose in disgust and hatred. Although, she was more scared than angry. She had every right to be furious with Saerin for doing what he did, but she couldn't stop him. If she tried, who would believe her except Jareth? Jareth had influence, but in a case like this, she would need more than Jareth's help to have her come out the victor.
They quickly exited the room, and re-entered the large banquet hall. There were still many guests dancing, or talking in small groups in various places around the room. Saerin held her tightly to him as they approached the ball's hostess. She noticed them right away and turned from her group to acknowledge them.
"Ah, Lord Saerin! Are you enjoying yourself?" she asked happily, smiling toward him and Sarah.
"I can not remember a party where you have been the host and I did not enjoy myself, Katharine," Saerin said in a truthful tone that made Sarah sick.
"Oh dear brother, I do believe you are trying to flatter me!" Katharine replied playfully.
"You flatter yourself all on your own sister. But alas, I am afraid that I may have enjoyed myself too much, you see. I have grown tired and I do have important errands to attend to tomorrow," Saerin said, his tone overwhelmingly believable. Sarah feared that if Saerin had not given his true self away to her, she would have never known he was lying through his teeth. Sarah grinded her teeth, but tried to keep a smile on her face as Katharine turned toward her.
"So are you to accompany Lord Saerin on his way home?" she asked.
"No," Sarah said between her teeth as she continued to grind them. Seeing Katharine's confused expression, and realizing how rude she had to have sounded, Sarah bowed her head in apology. "I didn't mean to snap at you Countess. I suppose you can blame it on the fatigue. But no, Saerin will see me to my residence, and then he will return to his," Sarah finished, wrapping up her end of the conversation.
"Goodnight, Katharine," Saerin said, taking her hand to his lips. Sarah nearly threw up. Saerin had fooled her for so long, that she had become oblivious to his schemes. Just before they turned to leave, she got a bad feeling. So, she craned her neck back, and it was just in time to see Phaedra. She barely saw what the woman was wearing, and all she could make out were the tell-tale exotic features that made her stand out when they first met. Phaedra had a look on her face that told Sarah she knew what was going on. As Saerin began leading her toward the exit, Sarah saw Phaedra's mouth curl into a sadistic smile. But before Sarah could see anymore, Saerin had pulled her from the room. Quickly, Saerin pulled her down the hallway with him, never slowing down or stopping. When they had finally reached the outside, Sarah yanked her arm away from him.
"Let go of me!" she exclaimed. But Saerin only laughed when he saw the disdainful expression on her face.
"Sarah, you have managed to somehow surprise me tonight. But if you really believe that 'I will see you to your residence, and I will return to mine,' you are sorely mistaken. We will be going to your residence, only I will be staying there with you." He flashed her one of his flirtatious smiles, which she didn't buy into this time.
"So are you gonna stay in the castle and keep an eye on me so I don't tell anyone who you really are?" Sarah shot back sarcastically. Saerin chuckled, tilting his head to one side.
"You may call it that, if you wish." Then he wrapped his fingers around her arms tightly, and she immediately began fighting him. "You wish to be left behind then?" he said impatiently. Sarah was beginning to feel terrified about the way he answered her question before. She sighed, knowing she would have to go with him because she couldn't stay there all night. She had no idea where she was or if she could make it back to the castle on her own. She allowed Saerin to pull her back to him. Suddenly, she held her breath as she felt herself being transported away from the estate.
When they had returned to Jareth's castle, Sarah's heart began to pound again. Even in Jareth's household, with the two of them in love, it still did not give her any authority so make him leave. Saerin could do anything he wanted because Jareth was not there to stop him.
"Jareth really needs to redecorate," Saerin said, looking around in distaste.
"May I go to bed now?" Sarah said harshly, pulling herself from his grasp.
"Oh yes, of course. Where are your quarters by the way?" he asked casually. But before she could answer, he grabbed her wrist and began walking, pulling her relentlessly behind him.
"Ow! What the hell do you think you're doing?! Just leave me alone!" she screamed. Sarah suddenly came to the realization that the servants all had quarters in the city, they did not sleep or even live in the castle at all. Jareth strictly forbade anyone but himself and or his invited guests to be in the castle after hours. She was completely at Saerin's mercy. She felt the tears begin building up once again, but this time they didn't pool around her lashes, the began to simply drain from her eyes.
"You want to play these childish human games with me, Sarah? I will show you how the fae handle human games," he growled. He began picking up his pace as he walked across the dining hall, past Jareth's office, past Phaedra's room, and past several more empty rooms. He stopped in front of a row of doors, and pulled her in front of him.
"Saerin...please, don't do this..." Sarah pleaded, but Saerin smiled sarcastically, and pushed her toward the doors.
"Which one is yours?" he said flatly, crossing his arms over his chest as he waited for her to answer him. Sarah wiped away a flood of tears, and weakly pointed to her left. She felt her legs giving out, and she wanted to make Saerin go away. But she knew it wouldn't happen the way she wanted it. But before she knew it, Saerin had scooped her into his arms and carried her over to the door she had identified as the one to her room.
"Saerin! No! Put me down! Just please, leave me alone!" Sarah cried, kicking her legs and trying to use her hands to make it more difficult for him to concentrate. Saerin lifted his foot up and kicked her door in, knocking it completely off its hinges. Sarah screamed as the door hit the ground with a hard thump. Saerin walked into the room and stopped at the end of her bed, throwing her onto it. Sarah sniffed back more tears as she tried to steady herself, scooting herself up to the headboard.
"Sarah, do not be afraid of me. I just want to find out what Jareth has been teaching you," he whispered, as he began to remove his clothing.
"Saerin no..." she said as calmly as possible. But her spirit was breaking as she watched him removed his trousers, his shirt, and his boots and threw them to the floor. She couldn't even fathom what he would or could do to her, she knew rape was real in her world, but she never imagined it would exist in Jareth's. She breathed in deeply, and tried to talk him out of it. "No one will ever find out about tonight...I swear, just please don't do this..."
"You know, Sarah, I have never met anyone who has intrigued me as much as you," he began, walking over to the bed. "But I have also never had the chance to take advantage of an incredibly beautiful creature such as yourself. I have had many women, and all of them I will admit, were exceptional at what they did to please me. But you are different."
"Saerin...please," she whispered, pulling her dress tightly around her as if it was a force field that would keep him away. Saerin climbed onto the bed in front of her and grabbed her ankles. "Saerin don't!" she cried, trying to push his hands away with hers. But he had to tight of a hold on her, and, moving his legs apart, he pulled her underneath him. Suddenly, he didn't care about being quiet anymore. He knew that they were alone in the castle, and the nearest occupant of the castle that would hear them were those in the village.
"Now this should not be too bad for you Sarah, it will all happen very fast," Saerin said, reaching up and tearing away the straps on her shoulders. Sarah pulled her hands up across her chest to keep the dress from falling. This must have made him angry, because he snatched her arms away from her chest. He held them hard against the pillows above her head. He also made sure they stayed crossed so it made it easier to hold them and harder for her to fight back. Sarah let the tears flow freely as he ripped the bodice off and tossed it to the floor. He began to tear the skirt from her waist, not caring if he ruined it, and she felt him harden against her stomach. Finally, pulling, he pulled the skirt off and threw that to the floor with the rest of their clothing. He stopped and looked her over, and her body began to shiver. Although, not from the room being cold, but from fright and hopelessness. He wet his lips, and ran his fingers over her breasts, then her abdomen, and finally her legs.
"Please let me go, Saerin," she begged, closing her legs tight as if she were trying to deter him from that part of her body. The horrible feeling she had was completely undescribable, and she was more terrified than she had ever been of anything in her life. He looked down at her lower waist, then back up at her, shaking his head.
"You are incredible, Sarah. Now I understand why Jareth is so possessive of you," he said, tracing his fingers over her lips and down her throat. Sarah swallowed hard, feeling his body touch hers made her try to make believe it was Jareth. But she knew better than that, Jareth would never have talked to her that way or treated her so harshly. She closed her eyes and rolled her head to one side, not wanting to watch as Saerin slowly placed his hand between her legs and spread them apart. She tried to pull them back together but he held them steady, and he settled himself in between her thighs. He smiled with satisfaction as he cupped one of her breasts and pinched the soft nipple between his fingers, but he pinched so hard that Sarah cried out in pain. He moved his head down to place rough, wet kisses on her stomach. Sarah squirmed, trying foolishly to make him stop, but he continued. He moved up higher and let his tongue slip out to leave a wet trail of lust across her breasts.
"Stop. Please..." she half sobbed, trying to pull her hands free as she wriggled beneath his weight. Then he brought his tongue higher up, dragging it across her neck, and finally up to her mouth. "Sae--" he had silenced her with one movement, their mouths meeting hard as Saerin shoved his tongue past her lips. Sarah could do nothing but make sounds that proved she didn't like what he was doing, and that she wanted him to end it. But, she knew he had the strong determination that Jareth had told her about only days ago. If she would have only listened. Saerin's tongue searched her mouth hungrily, as if it was on an endless quest for something it would never find. He twisted his tongue around hers, and forced her to kiss him back, giving her no choice or she wouldn't have been able to breath. When he finally pulled his lips from hers, she automatically turned away from him, not giving up the fight in trying to pull her hands free.
"Alright, Sarah..." he whispered in between gasps for breath, "enough fooling around. It is time for the real fun to begin," he now whispered into her ear, feeling her thighs tense up around him. He groaned, obviously aroused. Pulling himself up slightly, he positioned himself just slightly inside her. Sarah whimpered, her sobbing progressed to crying as he lifted her legs and wrapped them around his waist. He was still for a moment, and Sarah looked up at him, hoping maybe he had reconsidered. Then, without warning, she felt him throw his body forward as he entered her fully. Sarah screamed, and Saerin seemed to get nothing more than pure pleasure from causing her sexual pain as he continued to drive himself deeper within her. He finally freed her arms, and she was so weak from fighting him that she just wrapped her fingers around his arms and clung tightly with each movement of his hips. Sarah's muscled tensed up, which made her pain more frequent as he pumped harder and faster with each thrust. Her face was stained with tears, and Saerin showed no signs of stopping his painful endeavor as he covered her mouth with his once again. He pounded his hips against her as she dug her nails into his arm, tears quickly streaming down her face leaving black tracks from her mascara. Sarah's moaning mixed with her sobbing, and it seemed only to heighten his pleasure. He felt her tighten around him as he moved her legs higher around his waist.
"Saerin...plea...please..." she whispered, still squirming slightly. She was breathing was heavy, although she was feeling no pleasure or satisfaction from the experience. She just wanted it to be over with so he would leave her alone. As he quickly reached his point of sheer ecstasy, he pushed once more against her, and then he released that ecstasy inside of her. His body shook as he did so, and he finally collapsed on top of her. Sarah did nothing but break down into tears, as if she had not already cried enough. Her body jumped as she sobbed and her breath came in shaky gasps. She took her hands away from him and let them rest on the bed next to her. Saerin slowly moved his body out from between her legs and rolled over onto his side, facing her as she lay on her back. Sarah let her legs fall back together, but she didn't bother to move anymore after that, she lie motionless. Her makeup had long since been smeared about her face, and her hair was matted and tangled.
She closed her eyes and tried to concentrate on nothing but Jareth. What would they do when they got married? What would their wedding be like, or their children? But no matter how hard she tried, she couldn't block out what had just happened, nor could she think about anything else. She threw her arm out and grabbed a loose sheet, pulling it over her now defiled body. She pulled the sheet up to her face and tried to wipe the tear stains away, leaving black and gray marks on the white fabric. She curled up and moved as far away from Saerin as she could, tugging the sheet around her tightly. She felt so ashamed of herself, and she literally felt like a whore. She had failed to stay true to Jareth's belief in her, and she managed to completely fall under Saerin's spell again. Even after Jareth warned her about him, she felt so stupid for being as naïve and stubborn as she was. She wanted to show Phaedra up, but she only showed herself up. What would she tell Jareth when he returned? How would she explain this to him? He would never want to touch her or even associate with her after finding that Saerin had had his way with her. Her once ridden suicidal tendencies returned with a passion, but she couldn't bring herself to move. Her body ached and she could already feel that she would have bruises in the morning. Visible bruises that she wouldn't be able to hide. Eventually, her mind clouded with too many thoughts at once, and it began to shut down, carrying her into a deep and very highly sought after sleep.