Chapter 6: A Lot to Take In
A/N: This is my longest chapter yet. I didn't do it on purpose. I wrote this chapter really quickly. I don't know when the next will come. Ya'll know how senior internships, weddings, and college graduations can get in the way of things. MD is supposed to get more snow/ice on Monday night, so maybe I can work on it then. I must give much props to Yanni and Pure Moods Vol. 1 for inspiration on this chapter. Also, many thanks again to my wonderful reviewers who keep me going.
Disclaimer: Yes, I'm trying to take over the world but I don't own Labyrinth just my characters Sebal and Kilera.
On with the show.
The bright morning sun fell full on Sarah's face. The warmth stealing across her skin pulled Sarah from the best night's sleep she'd had in years. It had been restful and blissfully dreamless. Pulling herself from the surprisingly comfortable bed, Sarah crossed the plush gray carpet to the stone embrasure that was letting in the light. Amazed that no glass obscured her view of magnificent gardens, she put forth a questing hand but jerked back when blue light sparkled around her intruding fingers.
"Now that's cool," Sarah said quietly. Where else but in the Underground would magic be used to let in light and sound but keep out the bugs and elements. Turning from the window, she surveyed her suite. The heavy wooden bed vied for domination of the room with a fireplace the size of her old bathroom. A low couch and chaise covered by Celtic knot patterned wool were centrally located in front of the fireplace. Under another window was a desk and chair that matched the wood of the bed. On one shelf of the desk were several leather bound books. Drifting across the room, Sarah was drawn to another archway in the wall. Pulling aside the heavy silk cloth curtaining it off, she marveled at the room within. This room is bigger than my bedroom, she thought. The closet slash dressing room was sparsely filled with the clothes from the bad she'd brought along. I can't believe I forgot about it, she thought ruefully. Turning out of the dressing room, Sarah entered the bathing room. I guess I didn't pay much attention the last time I was in here. There was a sharp contrast between the black and white marble that decorated the room. A spigot sprouted out over the glistening sink but there were no taps. Turning around to the deep sunken tub, the same arrangement was present. Was that a toilet in the corner?
A sharp knock on her bedroom door had Sarah hurrying out of the bathroom. At Sarah's tentative reply, a short young woman brusquely entered the room.
"The names Kilera miss. I'm here to get you settled."
"Are you my maid?" Sarah asked tentatively.
"Hardly. That's what the goblins are for."
"Oh, I'm sorry."
"It's quite alright, dear. I'm more in the way of a welcome wagon. Now I think the first order of the day will be a bath. Don't you agree?" Sarah nodded glumly, knowing that she looked and probably smelled dreadful. She followed the efficient Kilera into the bathing room; oblivious to her chatter until two little words snatched her attention back.
".His Majesty says you've some magic so you'll be able to." "Excuse me, but what did you say?"
"Just that His Majesty says you have magic."
"Oh, so Jareth sent you."
"Who else would? Now as I was saying, all you have to do is tell it to turn on or off and hot or cold. After a while you won't actually have to say it but just think it. The sink and commode run the same way. But wait until you've seen the king until you try it."
"Why do I have to wait for him?" Sarah asked with more than a little impatience.
"Because you have to be able to control it. Here I'll run you some water and get the appropriate things and ring for breakfast. You look awfully thin. Then we have other things to discuss." Sarah just smiled and watched as the tub was filled with steamy water. Then strange bottles appeared next to the tub. Not two seconds later two large purple towels appeared on the rack above the bath. "Don't be too long in there missy. You've got stuff to do." There was so much authority in that little woman. A muffled "Yes Kilera" issued from the bathing room. Sarah rushed through her ablutions and quickly joined Kilera in the dressing room. Worry furrowed Sarah's brow as the enigmatic little woman surveyed her meager wardrobe. "I see we'll have to have some thing made up. Although we've stuck pretty close to the fashion trends of the above ground, you'll probably be more comfortable in a dress."
"No corsets?"
"Heavens no, girl. We only pull out that stuff for really special events."
"Oh well what do you think I should wear."
"Hmmm. I think His Majesty would enjoy that lovely blue silk sheath."
"Kilera, I honestly don't think Jareth is going to care what I wear. Why would he?"
"His Majesty, just like everything else in the Labyrinth is not always as it seems."
"So I've heard."
After dressing, Kilera motioned Sarah over to a table set with breakfast and the two sat to eat.
"Now, you can't just laze around the palace all day. So I took the liberty of placing you in the nursery."
"With the children who've been wished away."
"No, with the children of the castle staff. My own baby girl Linaya is there."
"Oh."
"You'll start tomorrow. With that all settled, after you have finished you have visitors in your gardens." It wasn't long before a quiet knock startled Sarah and the door opened to reveal a handsome man, dressed to go riding. Bowing to both women he addressed Sarah.
"Miss, I am His Majesty's chamberlain Sebal. I'm here to escort you to the gardens." Sarah turned to look at Kilera but both her and the table were gone. Rising gracelessly from the chair, Sarah took Sebal's proffered arm and exited her room. It was a quiet walk with the soft click of Sarah's heeled sandals the only sound breaking the silence. The relative shadow of the hallway gave way to the sun washed gardens Sarah had seen from her window. Awaiting her was a nervously shifting Hoggle and a proudly poised Sir Didymus. Sarah sprinted and crouched to hug both.
"I's surprised it took you this long," were Hoggle's first words. Shocked, Sir Didymus chimed in before Sarah could question him.
"Indeed my lady. We had hoped you would return sooner."
"What do you mean? I never thought I'd come back?" Hoggle and Sir Didymus looked quickly at her and one another before swiftly changing the subject. Several hours later, over a small lunch Sarah asked were Ludo was. She was duly informed that Ludo had found his life mate and was currently occupied. It wasn't long before Sarah noticed that she sun had dipped lower in the sky and her stomach started to rumble. Hoggle and Sir Didymus left quickly and Sarah turned to see the stoic Sebal waiting. Holding out a small piece of paper, Sebal led her back to her room. Once inside, Sarah hesitantly read the neat script that glistened wetly on the heavy card.
His Majesty Requests
Your Presence at Dinner
This Evening
"Oh no, no, no. This is not going to happen. He probably thinks he's being generous. Pah! Bloody moron is what he is. If he thinks that he's getting dinner with a grateful damsel formerly in distress he'd better think again. I'll show him grateful." Sarah hurriedly reapplied her makeup and brushed her hair. The clock on the fireplace mantle was chiming seven when a liveried goblin came to retrieve her. Instead of the grand ballroom she was expecting, a small solar overlooking the Labyrinth was set for dinner.
A tall blond man was haloed by the waning sunlight. At the announcement of Sarah's arrival he turned to survey his guest. She looks wary, Jareth thought, that's wonderful. Sarah was wary. This wasn't the Goblin King she knew. Gone were the boots, tight pants and low cut shirts. In it's place was, a suit?
"Is that Armani?"
"I find his use of black to be.impressive."
Ok, he was trying to throw her off guard. And it was working. The pale hair pulled back in an elegant queue, the tailored balck suit set against a crisp white shirt, slight open at the neck. Jareth motioned Sarah over to the table. As he was pushing her chair in , Sarah could feel his breath warm on her shoulder. When he'd seated himself Sarah spoke.
"I would like to thank you Jareth." Sarah said sweetly.
"Oh you would?" Jareth asked curiously.
"Oh yes. The visit to the oubliette was relaxing and oh so key to a good Underground experience." Sarah said acidly.
"Temper, temper." Jareth replied his voice thinned in warning.
"Don't start with me. I want to everything explained, in detail."
"After dinner then. Magic is too heavy a subject to discuss over a meal."
So they ate in silence. Sarah pretended to pick at her food but actually quite enjoyed the sumptuous meal. Jareth watched her intently as she ate. The light of the candles and the large moon smoothed the sharp cheekbones. When she finished Sarah looked up expectantly to find Jareth watching her.
"Do you mind?" Sarah said hotly.
"Quite a bit, actually. Since you blocked me from using my crystals to watch you, this is the only way I have to see you." Sarah smiled triumphantly at his remark.
"So why don't you start right there."
"Sarah don't get used to ordering me around. My generosity only goes so far."
"Yes, Your Majesty. Of course, You Majesty. My apologies You Majesty." Sarah said with not one note of apology in her voice. Jareth looked at her sharply before he began to speak.
"Anyone who comes to the Underground is given a certain amount of power. If you stay you learn to use it. If you leave it usually falls dormant, with some exceptions. If anyone comes back, the magic is again active. It is fairly simple to use but very taxing to the unprepared. Which is one of the reasons why you fainted and were sick upon transporting yourself. All you basically have to do is think or will whatever you want to do, be or have into existence. You can use words if you like but I find them to be ceremonial and cumbersome."
"So, how much can I do?"
"That depends on the person." Jareth answered carefully. It wouldn't do to tell her she was probably just as powerful as him.
"Jareth." Sarah said quietly looking him full in the face
"Yes."
"Thanks for rescuing me." Sarah said sincerely.
"Your welcome."
Sarah stood and crossed to one of the large windows to watch the Labyrinth shift under the moonlight. She felt more than heard Jareth come to stand behind her.
"There is so much I didn't see." Sarah whispered.
"That is often the case." Jareth returned quietly.
Turning her head, Sarah looked up at Jareth's features being bathed in moonlight. There was a balance written in his face. A balance between beauty and destruction. He looked down and caught her gaze in a compelling stare. Sarah looked away and her face tighten in concentration. A crystal materialized in her palm. Lifting it up to shoulder height she looked back at Jareth.
"It's merely a crystal, but if you turn it this way you'll see your dreams. Good night Jareth." And tossing the ball to him, Sarah popped out.
"Damn she learns quick."
Sarah quickly went to bed, exhausted after the magic she'd done. Falling into sleep Sarah began to dream. She was flying, soaring. The feel of the wind and sun and feathers was strangely familiar. It was exhilarating. She was strong and powerful and breathless. And beside her flew a white owl with mismatched eyes.
A/N: Please nobody flame me since I didn't put Jareth in tight pants and a poet's shirt. I grew up in the 80's and always thought it was a little over dramatic. You'll get to see him in his little outfits later. But don't hold your breath for corsets and such. Again, patience is required for the next chapter. Lot's of love, Kathea.
A/N: This is my longest chapter yet. I didn't do it on purpose. I wrote this chapter really quickly. I don't know when the next will come. Ya'll know how senior internships, weddings, and college graduations can get in the way of things. MD is supposed to get more snow/ice on Monday night, so maybe I can work on it then. I must give much props to Yanni and Pure Moods Vol. 1 for inspiration on this chapter. Also, many thanks again to my wonderful reviewers who keep me going.
Disclaimer: Yes, I'm trying to take over the world but I don't own Labyrinth just my characters Sebal and Kilera.
On with the show.
The bright morning sun fell full on Sarah's face. The warmth stealing across her skin pulled Sarah from the best night's sleep she'd had in years. It had been restful and blissfully dreamless. Pulling herself from the surprisingly comfortable bed, Sarah crossed the plush gray carpet to the stone embrasure that was letting in the light. Amazed that no glass obscured her view of magnificent gardens, she put forth a questing hand but jerked back when blue light sparkled around her intruding fingers.
"Now that's cool," Sarah said quietly. Where else but in the Underground would magic be used to let in light and sound but keep out the bugs and elements. Turning from the window, she surveyed her suite. The heavy wooden bed vied for domination of the room with a fireplace the size of her old bathroom. A low couch and chaise covered by Celtic knot patterned wool were centrally located in front of the fireplace. Under another window was a desk and chair that matched the wood of the bed. On one shelf of the desk were several leather bound books. Drifting across the room, Sarah was drawn to another archway in the wall. Pulling aside the heavy silk cloth curtaining it off, she marveled at the room within. This room is bigger than my bedroom, she thought. The closet slash dressing room was sparsely filled with the clothes from the bad she'd brought along. I can't believe I forgot about it, she thought ruefully. Turning out of the dressing room, Sarah entered the bathing room. I guess I didn't pay much attention the last time I was in here. There was a sharp contrast between the black and white marble that decorated the room. A spigot sprouted out over the glistening sink but there were no taps. Turning around to the deep sunken tub, the same arrangement was present. Was that a toilet in the corner?
A sharp knock on her bedroom door had Sarah hurrying out of the bathroom. At Sarah's tentative reply, a short young woman brusquely entered the room.
"The names Kilera miss. I'm here to get you settled."
"Are you my maid?" Sarah asked tentatively.
"Hardly. That's what the goblins are for."
"Oh, I'm sorry."
"It's quite alright, dear. I'm more in the way of a welcome wagon. Now I think the first order of the day will be a bath. Don't you agree?" Sarah nodded glumly, knowing that she looked and probably smelled dreadful. She followed the efficient Kilera into the bathing room; oblivious to her chatter until two little words snatched her attention back.
".His Majesty says you've some magic so you'll be able to." "Excuse me, but what did you say?"
"Just that His Majesty says you have magic."
"Oh, so Jareth sent you."
"Who else would? Now as I was saying, all you have to do is tell it to turn on or off and hot or cold. After a while you won't actually have to say it but just think it. The sink and commode run the same way. But wait until you've seen the king until you try it."
"Why do I have to wait for him?" Sarah asked with more than a little impatience.
"Because you have to be able to control it. Here I'll run you some water and get the appropriate things and ring for breakfast. You look awfully thin. Then we have other things to discuss." Sarah just smiled and watched as the tub was filled with steamy water. Then strange bottles appeared next to the tub. Not two seconds later two large purple towels appeared on the rack above the bath. "Don't be too long in there missy. You've got stuff to do." There was so much authority in that little woman. A muffled "Yes Kilera" issued from the bathing room. Sarah rushed through her ablutions and quickly joined Kilera in the dressing room. Worry furrowed Sarah's brow as the enigmatic little woman surveyed her meager wardrobe. "I see we'll have to have some thing made up. Although we've stuck pretty close to the fashion trends of the above ground, you'll probably be more comfortable in a dress."
"No corsets?"
"Heavens no, girl. We only pull out that stuff for really special events."
"Oh well what do you think I should wear."
"Hmmm. I think His Majesty would enjoy that lovely blue silk sheath."
"Kilera, I honestly don't think Jareth is going to care what I wear. Why would he?"
"His Majesty, just like everything else in the Labyrinth is not always as it seems."
"So I've heard."
After dressing, Kilera motioned Sarah over to a table set with breakfast and the two sat to eat.
"Now, you can't just laze around the palace all day. So I took the liberty of placing you in the nursery."
"With the children who've been wished away."
"No, with the children of the castle staff. My own baby girl Linaya is there."
"Oh."
"You'll start tomorrow. With that all settled, after you have finished you have visitors in your gardens." It wasn't long before a quiet knock startled Sarah and the door opened to reveal a handsome man, dressed to go riding. Bowing to both women he addressed Sarah.
"Miss, I am His Majesty's chamberlain Sebal. I'm here to escort you to the gardens." Sarah turned to look at Kilera but both her and the table were gone. Rising gracelessly from the chair, Sarah took Sebal's proffered arm and exited her room. It was a quiet walk with the soft click of Sarah's heeled sandals the only sound breaking the silence. The relative shadow of the hallway gave way to the sun washed gardens Sarah had seen from her window. Awaiting her was a nervously shifting Hoggle and a proudly poised Sir Didymus. Sarah sprinted and crouched to hug both.
"I's surprised it took you this long," were Hoggle's first words. Shocked, Sir Didymus chimed in before Sarah could question him.
"Indeed my lady. We had hoped you would return sooner."
"What do you mean? I never thought I'd come back?" Hoggle and Sir Didymus looked quickly at her and one another before swiftly changing the subject. Several hours later, over a small lunch Sarah asked were Ludo was. She was duly informed that Ludo had found his life mate and was currently occupied. It wasn't long before Sarah noticed that she sun had dipped lower in the sky and her stomach started to rumble. Hoggle and Sir Didymus left quickly and Sarah turned to see the stoic Sebal waiting. Holding out a small piece of paper, Sebal led her back to her room. Once inside, Sarah hesitantly read the neat script that glistened wetly on the heavy card.
His Majesty Requests
Your Presence at Dinner
This Evening
"Oh no, no, no. This is not going to happen. He probably thinks he's being generous. Pah! Bloody moron is what he is. If he thinks that he's getting dinner with a grateful damsel formerly in distress he'd better think again. I'll show him grateful." Sarah hurriedly reapplied her makeup and brushed her hair. The clock on the fireplace mantle was chiming seven when a liveried goblin came to retrieve her. Instead of the grand ballroom she was expecting, a small solar overlooking the Labyrinth was set for dinner.
A tall blond man was haloed by the waning sunlight. At the announcement of Sarah's arrival he turned to survey his guest. She looks wary, Jareth thought, that's wonderful. Sarah was wary. This wasn't the Goblin King she knew. Gone were the boots, tight pants and low cut shirts. In it's place was, a suit?
"Is that Armani?"
"I find his use of black to be.impressive."
Ok, he was trying to throw her off guard. And it was working. The pale hair pulled back in an elegant queue, the tailored balck suit set against a crisp white shirt, slight open at the neck. Jareth motioned Sarah over to the table. As he was pushing her chair in , Sarah could feel his breath warm on her shoulder. When he'd seated himself Sarah spoke.
"I would like to thank you Jareth." Sarah said sweetly.
"Oh you would?" Jareth asked curiously.
"Oh yes. The visit to the oubliette was relaxing and oh so key to a good Underground experience." Sarah said acidly.
"Temper, temper." Jareth replied his voice thinned in warning.
"Don't start with me. I want to everything explained, in detail."
"After dinner then. Magic is too heavy a subject to discuss over a meal."
So they ate in silence. Sarah pretended to pick at her food but actually quite enjoyed the sumptuous meal. Jareth watched her intently as she ate. The light of the candles and the large moon smoothed the sharp cheekbones. When she finished Sarah looked up expectantly to find Jareth watching her.
"Do you mind?" Sarah said hotly.
"Quite a bit, actually. Since you blocked me from using my crystals to watch you, this is the only way I have to see you." Sarah smiled triumphantly at his remark.
"So why don't you start right there."
"Sarah don't get used to ordering me around. My generosity only goes so far."
"Yes, Your Majesty. Of course, You Majesty. My apologies You Majesty." Sarah said with not one note of apology in her voice. Jareth looked at her sharply before he began to speak.
"Anyone who comes to the Underground is given a certain amount of power. If you stay you learn to use it. If you leave it usually falls dormant, with some exceptions. If anyone comes back, the magic is again active. It is fairly simple to use but very taxing to the unprepared. Which is one of the reasons why you fainted and were sick upon transporting yourself. All you basically have to do is think or will whatever you want to do, be or have into existence. You can use words if you like but I find them to be ceremonial and cumbersome."
"So, how much can I do?"
"That depends on the person." Jareth answered carefully. It wouldn't do to tell her she was probably just as powerful as him.
"Jareth." Sarah said quietly looking him full in the face
"Yes."
"Thanks for rescuing me." Sarah said sincerely.
"Your welcome."
Sarah stood and crossed to one of the large windows to watch the Labyrinth shift under the moonlight. She felt more than heard Jareth come to stand behind her.
"There is so much I didn't see." Sarah whispered.
"That is often the case." Jareth returned quietly.
Turning her head, Sarah looked up at Jareth's features being bathed in moonlight. There was a balance written in his face. A balance between beauty and destruction. He looked down and caught her gaze in a compelling stare. Sarah looked away and her face tighten in concentration. A crystal materialized in her palm. Lifting it up to shoulder height she looked back at Jareth.
"It's merely a crystal, but if you turn it this way you'll see your dreams. Good night Jareth." And tossing the ball to him, Sarah popped out.
"Damn she learns quick."
Sarah quickly went to bed, exhausted after the magic she'd done. Falling into sleep Sarah began to dream. She was flying, soaring. The feel of the wind and sun and feathers was strangely familiar. It was exhilarating. She was strong and powerful and breathless. And beside her flew a white owl with mismatched eyes.
A/N: Please nobody flame me since I didn't put Jareth in tight pants and a poet's shirt. I grew up in the 80's and always thought it was a little over dramatic. You'll get to see him in his little outfits later. But don't hold your breath for corsets and such. Again, patience is required for the next chapter. Lot's of love, Kathea.