chapter 3 A Discussion of Duties
It was now Sunday. A dreary one at that in Merry Old England. The rain drops were still pitter pattering against the window, and Sarah watched them accumulate, and then run down the glass in large droplets.
She looked at the gold ring on her finger."It is so pretty.", she though silently to herself. "So modest, and yet so pretty." The diamond was not large, but was still nearly a quarter carot in size, and was set deep into the gold band. Though it was still shiny, the style was clearly antique. A style from many centuries ago. She wondered to herself, why Jareth had given her something that meant so much to him. It just proved, to her anyways, that he truly did love her. More deeply than she had once imagined. She smiled a bit, and reached for the crystal that he had given her. She held it close to her eyes, and looked inside of it with a wonderous gaze of excitement and curiousity. And then her eyes grew wide with what it showed her.
It was the Underground. More beautiful than it had been when she had last been there. The gardens were more lush and green then she had ever thought possible. But the castle- it still looked the same, but appeared to be under some type of construction or repair.She laughed mildly, with slight amusement, as she watched goblins scurrying about. Some with hammers, and others with saws and squares. Then she seen Jareth. He was sitting in his throne, his leg resting on the arm rest, leafing through a large book that rested on his lap. He looked so distinguished. Especially clad in his grey breeches, cream silk shirt, and black leather boots and waistcoat. He didn't look so evil anymore. Like he had during their last confrontation over Toby. He looked...happy.
She dropped the crystal on her bed, and quickly hid it under the pillows, as someone knocked on her bedroom door.
"Come in,", she called out, exhasperated from the sudden shock of being snapped back into reality.
Her father walked in and smiled at her.
"Hello, Dear.", he said smiling.
"Hi.", she replied sitting up, hoping that he wouldn't notice that he had alarmed her. He sat on the edge of her bed.
"What are you doing?", he asked, looking about the room.
"Nothing. Just- ah. Just reading," she said as she grabbed a random book from her bedside stand. He took the book from her and glanced at the cover.
"The Labyrinth.", he read aloud. "Your mom gave you that. I think that it always was one of your favorite stories. Infact,", he said as he gestured his hand about the room, "I believe that this is where you got most of your fantasies from." He smiled, looking at his young daughter who had always seemed to have a rampant imagination. "Any event. I was just wondering why you haven't been around much these past two days. Sleeping in, being happy all of a sudden. But yet, so distant all the same. Truth be told, Karen and I are worried about you, Sarah. Never going out with any friends. And we never hear mention of boys or anything. Just fairytales and the such." He looked her in the eyes. " You can always talk to me if you need to, you know. No matter what."
Sarah smiled at her father. She sensed his concern. But knew that he would never truly understand her, nor even believe her that there was a goblin king that was truly in love with her. And had palns to take her away with him to the Underground some day, and make her his queen. He would never believe her, nor understand her. " Dad, nothing is wrong. Really. I've been tired. That's all. And I've decided that being miserable isn't going to help me with anything. I just sort of want to be left alone for a while." She raised her hands to shrug her shoulders, and her father caught the glimpse of a sparkle on her finger. He picked up her hand and examined it closely.
"Where on Earth did you get that?", he inquired about the ring. "It's beautiful. And I imagine that it wasn't cheap." He looked at her a little shocked.
"I ah. Well. I got it from--- from....." She was stumbling over her own words trying to come up with a convincing excuse, as to the origin of the ring.
"Did some boy give you this?", he asked as his gaze drifted up to meet his daughter's.
"No, Dad." She smiled. " Well, maybe, but I'm not gonna tell on him." She blushed and turned away.
"Well, my little girl has a beau at last! Do I or Karen know him? Where is he from?" He look a little coy now. Wanting to know everything. Perhaps it was out of sheer concern, but more than likely it was just to know all the details to report back to Karen, Sarah thought. That woman would stop at nothing to know everyone's business.
"Dad? Please. I really don't want to talk about it. Not right now anyway. Maybe- maybe later. Ok?" She gave him a rather weak smile, proving that she wasn't about to let him know anything.
"Alright. Whatever you want, Dear." He got up, off of the bed, and headed for the door. Then he turned around and added, "Sarah, just- be careful. Don't do anything that you might regret. And, remeber what I said. About coming to me; just to talk." He opened the door.
"I know, Dad. And, umm, don't worry about me. I'll be fine."
Robert left the room, closing the door quietly behind him. And he came face to face with an inquisitive Karen. She was ready to get all of the information, and immediately began bombarding Robert with questions.
"Well, what did she say?" Robert looked at her and shook his head, motioning for her to keep her voice down, as he knew that Sarah would be able to hear them. Karen lowered her voice to nearly a whisper. "Come on, Robert. What is going on with that girl?" She was wide eyed, and curious. Ready for all the details.
Sarah pressed her ear to the door to listen to he parents.
She has a boyfriend, Karen. He,...gave her a ring." Robert smiled. " It is beautiful, Karen. And she seems so happy over it all. I think that we should just let her be." Sarah sighed in relief.
"Who is he?", Karen asked.
"I don't know.", he replied. "She didn't want to talk about it. And that is entirely her decision. I can't force her to if she doesn't want to." Robert motioned for them to go downstairs, and Karen followed. Her beige slacks flowing with each step, and her pearl bracelet making a faint clicking noise against her wrist watch.
"What do you mean you don't know? You must have some idea."
Robert looked at her scoldingly, and picked Toby up from his playpen, who was still in his one-piece blue pyjamas.
"He must come from a well to do family.I mean, that ring-" he paused for a moment to reflect upon it, then continued, "-it's of finer quality than I have ever seen. And it looks old. Antique I think." He put Toby in his high chair and began to feed him.
"So he must be well off then. I hope that she doesn't ruin this, with all of her fairytale nonsense, and rubbish. A girl as pretty as her should have had boys at her feet long ago. Not the other way around."
Sarah was still listening to them, up in her room. She rolled her eyes sarcastically at her stepmother's remarks. "The old witch!", she thought to herself. "Where does she get off saying things like that?", she asked aloud. Her eyes reflected her anger and hopelessness. "If only they knew who the boy is! If oly they knew that he is a man! A king of goblins in a far away place!", she added triumphantly, as she sat infront of her vanity. "And that he has picked me to be his queen." Her face lost all expression, and her eyes rested on her ring. No one had given her a ring like that before. Not one that meant something of this nature. And she was proud of it.
She wished that Jareth had been there at that moment. He would have put Karen in her place. Sarah would never call her Mom. Her real mother was not much better. She was never there. Always away making films or doing plays. She would occassionally call, but that isn't what a mother is supposed to be like. They are supposed to be there for thier children. Not off with a man of the night, and forgetting to call on birthdays. All Sarah would try to do, is be friendly with Karen. But Karen has such a very arrogant attitude towards everything. "How I loathe that woman!", Sarah bellowed aloud. She threw a box of tissues at her door. "She's so nosey and arrogant!"
In the Underground, Jareth had other concerns. Instead of worrying about what his future wife's parents thought of him, he was busy preparing books for Sarah. So that she could fully understand her future duties.
He raised his head as he heard footsteps approaching him. Then a familiar voice.
"Jareth. Such a pleasure, as always." Jareth looked up. It was Byron, a lord of a nearby kingdom, primarily comprised of fairy folk. He was a stout fellow, yet well groomed, with hair blacker than night. He was not elaborately dressed, but rather sported a pair of red breeched and a chain nail shirt. He had a beard that was also black, but was quickly turning to a salt and pepper concoxtion. He was leisurely, and rebuked any form of labour.
"And what brings you here?", Jareth asked cooly. "I was not aware of the fact that I was to be receiving visitors today." He resumed to leafing through yet another book.
"A matter of importance, Majesty. I thought that you should know that the High Council has received word that you have choosen a wife- a mortal wife." Byron sounded serious, and Jareth looked up, clearly not happy.
"And what business is it of the High Council? They have no right to interfere with whom I take as a bride." Jareth's mood was changing drastically, and his cruel look was beginning to return, He hated the council. Especially the elected head of it.
"Aye. I agree with you, Highness. But I am just here to warn you. The head of the council, Olaris, is trying to gain favour with the other members, to pass a law forbidding us Fae to assocaite with mortals." Byron's face lost all expression. His accent of the Scottish Highlands was beginning to get quite thick, as it tended ot do when he got nervous.
He knew that Olaris and Jareth had never seen eye to eye.Their dispute stretched back nearly eight centuries, and resided over the fact that Jareth had refused ot marry his sister, Lee. Thus uniting Jareth's kingdom and his own into one.
Jareth had straight out refused. Lee was a dull witted girl. And Jareth had always seemed to have a fascination for mortal women. Especially those with imaginations like his dear Sarah. But she is the only one that he had ever come to really love. Lee was boring, really. She had no imagination, nor intelligence. True she was attractive, but that was all. She was more of a spoiled brat, and her brother was no better.
"So, Olaris knows about my Sarah then. And he has the insolence to attempt something as futile as prohibiting us from taking mortals in to our beds, and hearts." Jareth snickered as the thought. "Yes, Olaris too stole children, so he would not risk them. Only teenage and adults. How ironic." Then he looked up bravely. "Such nonsense! How many mortal misstresses has that spoiled brat had over the centuries? Certainly more than I care to remember!" Jareth was all sarcasm now.
Byron smiled, knowing that Jareth was already devising a plan to rebuttle his enemy's attack.
"Why don't both you, and your lovely wife, join me and my future bride for dinner, a week from now. And, we shall discuss this matter further, and perhaps make it a bit more lucrative for all intended?" Jareth returned to his throne and grinned coldly.
Byron smiled. He loved when he came out of anything with a profit. Be it gold, silver, or even political conquest or gain. And he knew that Jareth possessed more wealth than anyone else in the Fairy Kingdom- the Underground. Wealth, power, land, and political standing were all his. And he was good at his twisted, caniving, evil palns. So long as they were aimed at Olaris. That was always his goal. They were enemies, and would probably always be.
Olaris was just power hungry. A war monger, who desired nothing but death and destruction. He and his wife, Moriana, a Fae from the far reaches of the Black Plains, were well matched. Yet, they seemed to be worlds apart in a way. She normally kept herself out of the political arean, unless she had a certain goal in mind. But she consisted of nothing more than pure ignorance. Moreso than the Goblin King, himself.
"Aye, Sire. I would be greatly obliged by your humble invitation,", Byron said as he gave his head a slight bow, acknowledging the invitation. "Until next week then."
Jareth dismissed him with a slight wave of his hand, not even bothering to look up as Byron departed.
Jareth was dismayed by these recent events. He knew that Olaris was out for him, by trying to rob that which he held nearest to his heart...Sarah.
He would have no other choice now, but to rush things along more quickly than he had anticipated. He knew that Olaris would have no problems gaining favour with the rest of the council, due to the fact that the majority feared him, and his army. Many did not want to go to war. And Jareth was sure of it that he would put in a clause so that they would still be able to rob mortals of their children, to turn into their slaves. But, Jareth would go to battle, just to ensure his beloved's safety, and future home.
Now, though, he would have to bring Sarah to the Underground much sooner than originally thought. But, before he could do just that, she would have to be taught certain things. He would have to instruct her on her future duties and responsibilties, that would be expected of her to perform. Her manners were already near perfect refinement. "But still,", he thought silently, "she is still so young. A sixteen year old girl...my-,",he felt a smile tug at the corners of his mouth, and his brows raised in unision as he said aloud,"wife." Then he shook his head, realizing how much work that had to be done. And how short a time he had to do it in. His plan would be implemented tonight, providing he had Sarah's approval, which he knew he would.
However, he decided that he would hold off on bringing her to the Underground for as long as he possibly could. But he honestly had no idea on exactly how long that could be. All he knew was that he had to move quickly, for time was definately short.
Night came on swift wings for both Jareth and Sarah. And there was much for them to discuss.
It was nearly midnight when Jareth came to her. She had waited for him, sitting next to her window in a white wicker chair, still watching the rain hit her window.
He materialized behind her, and placed his gloved hand on her shoulder. Instantly she rested her head on his hand.
"I waited for you.", she said softly, looking up at him.
"Sarah, there is much that we must talk about - ", she cut him off, and motioned for him to be quiet.
"Karen, and Dad are still up. And I know that they could be listening.", she said sadly.
"What's wrong, My Dear?", Jareth asked with a frown, looking her over to ensure that she was physically well.
"Nothing. I- I just missed you. That's all. What do we have to talk about?" She rested her head on his hand again.
"Sarah, do you really wish to return to the Underground? To give up your mortality?" He watched her reflection in the glass.
"More than anything in the world. I want you to take me away from here, Jareth. Forever." Still, she stared out the window.
"Then, I will take you. Soon. But you must prepare." She turned fully around, and looked at him in astonishment.
"What?", she asked, not believing what he had just said.
"You will accompnay me soon, Sarah. But, right now, there are several arising problems in the Underground. Many that I can't trouble you with. But, if I don't do something presently, I may lose you forever. And that is something that I am not willing to do." His look was serious, and Sarah knew that if something was troubling him this much, then it was great indeed.
"What must I do then?", she asked, alarmed that there were potentially arising problems with her future homeland.
"I will have to teach you your responsibilities. And quickly I might add. I am throwing a formal dinner, for Lord Byron, and his wife, Chloe. Hopefully, I will be able to resolve a few of the uprising issues. But things are going to have to move along rather quickly. I am obliged to produce a rather distinguished lady to the Fae court, Sarah. And you are going to have to know your duties and responsibilities. Along with the limits of the Fae. Especailly Olaris." He cupped her face in his hand. "Are you ready for this, Sarah? Please, don't lie for my sake."
"I am ready, Jareth. Just teach me. Show me. I will do anything!", she said as a smile appeared from ear to ear. She was going to get to leave this horrid world behind, a be happy in the place that she had been meant to belong in. Finally, she would feel at peace, and no longer ridiculed.
Jareth produced three books on her bed. " Read these. They will give you somewhat a brief understanding of your future duties. As well as a brief history of Underground law and traditions. I hope that it will assist you in preparing." He smiled, and sat on her bed. "Your duties will be rather straightforward. I ask that you stay out of any politics. It is sticky business, especially with the Head Council. But keep your wits about you, all the same. For, you will be asked certain questions as many will know that you are engaged to a King of high political standing. But yet, be tactfull, and volunteer no information. About anything. I can't stress this more than enough, Sarah." He looked serious. And Sarah could see that he was somewhat upset. Not with her. But someone was starting to get under his skin.
"I understand. And I suppose, that I am not to mention anything about my mortal life here, aboveground?" She looked at him, her eyes telling him that she didn't want to lie.
"That is fine, Sarah. But- I can't lie to you. The head of the Fae council, a king by the name of Olaris, is presenting certain laws to be placed into effect. Presumably, a law to forbid Fae to take mortals as partners. Slaves, yes. But no unions. There is a strong possibility that he is going to try to invade outer kingdoms, in order to dominate the Underground. And if that law comes into effect, I will lose you. And, I swear, I will fight until the end of time to keep you safe, My Sweet." He took her hand in his, and palced it over his heart.
"How long will it take for a law like that to be passed?", she asked, now a little scared. She had not thought that she would become entangled in a full scale war.
"Not longer than six months, no less than three. That is tradition. But do not worry, Sarah. If we are united before then, there is nothing that can be done about it." He looked at her, and knew from her sad expression, that she felt awful.
"Why would he do this?", was all she asked.
"He is a war monger. He wanted me to marry his sister, Lee, over eight hundred years ago. I couldn't! But what does it matter? He is out to conquer, and rob me of what I hold dear!", Jareth was yeling, enraged at the very thought of what Olaris was attempting to do.
"Shhhh!", Sarah whispered to him, and pointed towards the floor. "They will hear you, Jareth."
"Let them.", he whispered back. " Let them know that a king loves you. Let them know that you are going to be a Gobling Queen! Let them know,--- that I hold you closer to my heart than anything else. Above, or Underground."
She put her arms around him. "Please, Jareth, Don't think me selfish by asking. But what if you came Aboveground? Then you wouldn't have to fight. We could stil be together. And live in peace." She looked him in the eyes. " I don't want to cause a war."
He looked at her. Her eyes were beginning to form tears.
"Sarah,I would die. Then you would lose me. I promise you, I will never let anything happen to you. Please, don't back down because of Olaris. I need you. Just as much as you need me. Be my wife. My queen. My world. Please?"
"I love you so much, Jareth. I will wait for you to teach me more. Every night, until you can take me home. And I will be your queen. Your wife. Your friend. Your companion. Just promise me that you will always be there." She held him tight.
"I swear on all that I hold dear to me." He held her just as tight, his cloak enveloping both of them, seeming to swril around them though in the absence of any form of wind. Then a knock came on her bedroom door.
"Sarah? Sarah, are you still up?" She looked at Jareth, who was beginning to disappear. "My father.", she whispered. He nooded.
"I will return tomorrow night. Until then...", and then he was gone.
She answered the door, and her father was standing there, looking at her bewilderdly.
"Who were you talking to?", he asked, peering into the room.
"No one, Dad. She looked at her watch. It's nearly 1 am. I was just receiting some english homework. That's all." She looked at him, angry that he had interrupted her and her beloved.
"Receiting this late at night? I think that it should have been done hours ago, Dear." He looked at her, knowing that she was trying to hide something.
"I know. I was gettng ready for bed anyways." She started closing the door.
"Goodnihgt then, D-", But it was too late, she had already closed the door. He stood there, and looked at it blankly for a moment, then went in to his own room.
Jareth, too, had the sense to rest. His troubled were just starting. But everything was fine, since Sarah gave him her support. Soon ,he would no longer sleep alone anylonger. Soon, she would always be with him. Soon.......
It was now Sunday. A dreary one at that in Merry Old England. The rain drops were still pitter pattering against the window, and Sarah watched them accumulate, and then run down the glass in large droplets.
She looked at the gold ring on her finger."It is so pretty.", she though silently to herself. "So modest, and yet so pretty." The diamond was not large, but was still nearly a quarter carot in size, and was set deep into the gold band. Though it was still shiny, the style was clearly antique. A style from many centuries ago. She wondered to herself, why Jareth had given her something that meant so much to him. It just proved, to her anyways, that he truly did love her. More deeply than she had once imagined. She smiled a bit, and reached for the crystal that he had given her. She held it close to her eyes, and looked inside of it with a wonderous gaze of excitement and curiousity. And then her eyes grew wide with what it showed her.
It was the Underground. More beautiful than it had been when she had last been there. The gardens were more lush and green then she had ever thought possible. But the castle- it still looked the same, but appeared to be under some type of construction or repair.She laughed mildly, with slight amusement, as she watched goblins scurrying about. Some with hammers, and others with saws and squares. Then she seen Jareth. He was sitting in his throne, his leg resting on the arm rest, leafing through a large book that rested on his lap. He looked so distinguished. Especially clad in his grey breeches, cream silk shirt, and black leather boots and waistcoat. He didn't look so evil anymore. Like he had during their last confrontation over Toby. He looked...happy.
She dropped the crystal on her bed, and quickly hid it under the pillows, as someone knocked on her bedroom door.
"Come in,", she called out, exhasperated from the sudden shock of being snapped back into reality.
Her father walked in and smiled at her.
"Hello, Dear.", he said smiling.
"Hi.", she replied sitting up, hoping that he wouldn't notice that he had alarmed her. He sat on the edge of her bed.
"What are you doing?", he asked, looking about the room.
"Nothing. Just- ah. Just reading," she said as she grabbed a random book from her bedside stand. He took the book from her and glanced at the cover.
"The Labyrinth.", he read aloud. "Your mom gave you that. I think that it always was one of your favorite stories. Infact,", he said as he gestured his hand about the room, "I believe that this is where you got most of your fantasies from." He smiled, looking at his young daughter who had always seemed to have a rampant imagination. "Any event. I was just wondering why you haven't been around much these past two days. Sleeping in, being happy all of a sudden. But yet, so distant all the same. Truth be told, Karen and I are worried about you, Sarah. Never going out with any friends. And we never hear mention of boys or anything. Just fairytales and the such." He looked her in the eyes. " You can always talk to me if you need to, you know. No matter what."
Sarah smiled at her father. She sensed his concern. But knew that he would never truly understand her, nor even believe her that there was a goblin king that was truly in love with her. And had palns to take her away with him to the Underground some day, and make her his queen. He would never believe her, nor understand her. " Dad, nothing is wrong. Really. I've been tired. That's all. And I've decided that being miserable isn't going to help me with anything. I just sort of want to be left alone for a while." She raised her hands to shrug her shoulders, and her father caught the glimpse of a sparkle on her finger. He picked up her hand and examined it closely.
"Where on Earth did you get that?", he inquired about the ring. "It's beautiful. And I imagine that it wasn't cheap." He looked at her a little shocked.
"I ah. Well. I got it from--- from....." She was stumbling over her own words trying to come up with a convincing excuse, as to the origin of the ring.
"Did some boy give you this?", he asked as his gaze drifted up to meet his daughter's.
"No, Dad." She smiled. " Well, maybe, but I'm not gonna tell on him." She blushed and turned away.
"Well, my little girl has a beau at last! Do I or Karen know him? Where is he from?" He look a little coy now. Wanting to know everything. Perhaps it was out of sheer concern, but more than likely it was just to know all the details to report back to Karen, Sarah thought. That woman would stop at nothing to know everyone's business.
"Dad? Please. I really don't want to talk about it. Not right now anyway. Maybe- maybe later. Ok?" She gave him a rather weak smile, proving that she wasn't about to let him know anything.
"Alright. Whatever you want, Dear." He got up, off of the bed, and headed for the door. Then he turned around and added, "Sarah, just- be careful. Don't do anything that you might regret. And, remeber what I said. About coming to me; just to talk." He opened the door.
"I know, Dad. And, umm, don't worry about me. I'll be fine."
Robert left the room, closing the door quietly behind him. And he came face to face with an inquisitive Karen. She was ready to get all of the information, and immediately began bombarding Robert with questions.
"Well, what did she say?" Robert looked at her and shook his head, motioning for her to keep her voice down, as he knew that Sarah would be able to hear them. Karen lowered her voice to nearly a whisper. "Come on, Robert. What is going on with that girl?" She was wide eyed, and curious. Ready for all the details.
Sarah pressed her ear to the door to listen to he parents.
She has a boyfriend, Karen. He,...gave her a ring." Robert smiled. " It is beautiful, Karen. And she seems so happy over it all. I think that we should just let her be." Sarah sighed in relief.
"Who is he?", Karen asked.
"I don't know.", he replied. "She didn't want to talk about it. And that is entirely her decision. I can't force her to if she doesn't want to." Robert motioned for them to go downstairs, and Karen followed. Her beige slacks flowing with each step, and her pearl bracelet making a faint clicking noise against her wrist watch.
"What do you mean you don't know? You must have some idea."
Robert looked at her scoldingly, and picked Toby up from his playpen, who was still in his one-piece blue pyjamas.
"He must come from a well to do family.I mean, that ring-" he paused for a moment to reflect upon it, then continued, "-it's of finer quality than I have ever seen. And it looks old. Antique I think." He put Toby in his high chair and began to feed him.
"So he must be well off then. I hope that she doesn't ruin this, with all of her fairytale nonsense, and rubbish. A girl as pretty as her should have had boys at her feet long ago. Not the other way around."
Sarah was still listening to them, up in her room. She rolled her eyes sarcastically at her stepmother's remarks. "The old witch!", she thought to herself. "Where does she get off saying things like that?", she asked aloud. Her eyes reflected her anger and hopelessness. "If only they knew who the boy is! If oly they knew that he is a man! A king of goblins in a far away place!", she added triumphantly, as she sat infront of her vanity. "And that he has picked me to be his queen." Her face lost all expression, and her eyes rested on her ring. No one had given her a ring like that before. Not one that meant something of this nature. And she was proud of it.
She wished that Jareth had been there at that moment. He would have put Karen in her place. Sarah would never call her Mom. Her real mother was not much better. She was never there. Always away making films or doing plays. She would occassionally call, but that isn't what a mother is supposed to be like. They are supposed to be there for thier children. Not off with a man of the night, and forgetting to call on birthdays. All Sarah would try to do, is be friendly with Karen. But Karen has such a very arrogant attitude towards everything. "How I loathe that woman!", Sarah bellowed aloud. She threw a box of tissues at her door. "She's so nosey and arrogant!"
In the Underground, Jareth had other concerns. Instead of worrying about what his future wife's parents thought of him, he was busy preparing books for Sarah. So that she could fully understand her future duties.
He raised his head as he heard footsteps approaching him. Then a familiar voice.
"Jareth. Such a pleasure, as always." Jareth looked up. It was Byron, a lord of a nearby kingdom, primarily comprised of fairy folk. He was a stout fellow, yet well groomed, with hair blacker than night. He was not elaborately dressed, but rather sported a pair of red breeched and a chain nail shirt. He had a beard that was also black, but was quickly turning to a salt and pepper concoxtion. He was leisurely, and rebuked any form of labour.
"And what brings you here?", Jareth asked cooly. "I was not aware of the fact that I was to be receiving visitors today." He resumed to leafing through yet another book.
"A matter of importance, Majesty. I thought that you should know that the High Council has received word that you have choosen a wife- a mortal wife." Byron sounded serious, and Jareth looked up, clearly not happy.
"And what business is it of the High Council? They have no right to interfere with whom I take as a bride." Jareth's mood was changing drastically, and his cruel look was beginning to return, He hated the council. Especially the elected head of it.
"Aye. I agree with you, Highness. But I am just here to warn you. The head of the council, Olaris, is trying to gain favour with the other members, to pass a law forbidding us Fae to assocaite with mortals." Byron's face lost all expression. His accent of the Scottish Highlands was beginning to get quite thick, as it tended ot do when he got nervous.
He knew that Olaris and Jareth had never seen eye to eye.Their dispute stretched back nearly eight centuries, and resided over the fact that Jareth had refused ot marry his sister, Lee. Thus uniting Jareth's kingdom and his own into one.
Jareth had straight out refused. Lee was a dull witted girl. And Jareth had always seemed to have a fascination for mortal women. Especially those with imaginations like his dear Sarah. But she is the only one that he had ever come to really love. Lee was boring, really. She had no imagination, nor intelligence. True she was attractive, but that was all. She was more of a spoiled brat, and her brother was no better.
"So, Olaris knows about my Sarah then. And he has the insolence to attempt something as futile as prohibiting us from taking mortals in to our beds, and hearts." Jareth snickered as the thought. "Yes, Olaris too stole children, so he would not risk them. Only teenage and adults. How ironic." Then he looked up bravely. "Such nonsense! How many mortal misstresses has that spoiled brat had over the centuries? Certainly more than I care to remember!" Jareth was all sarcasm now.
Byron smiled, knowing that Jareth was already devising a plan to rebuttle his enemy's attack.
"Why don't both you, and your lovely wife, join me and my future bride for dinner, a week from now. And, we shall discuss this matter further, and perhaps make it a bit more lucrative for all intended?" Jareth returned to his throne and grinned coldly.
Byron smiled. He loved when he came out of anything with a profit. Be it gold, silver, or even political conquest or gain. And he knew that Jareth possessed more wealth than anyone else in the Fairy Kingdom- the Underground. Wealth, power, land, and political standing were all his. And he was good at his twisted, caniving, evil palns. So long as they were aimed at Olaris. That was always his goal. They were enemies, and would probably always be.
Olaris was just power hungry. A war monger, who desired nothing but death and destruction. He and his wife, Moriana, a Fae from the far reaches of the Black Plains, were well matched. Yet, they seemed to be worlds apart in a way. She normally kept herself out of the political arean, unless she had a certain goal in mind. But she consisted of nothing more than pure ignorance. Moreso than the Goblin King, himself.
"Aye, Sire. I would be greatly obliged by your humble invitation,", Byron said as he gave his head a slight bow, acknowledging the invitation. "Until next week then."
Jareth dismissed him with a slight wave of his hand, not even bothering to look up as Byron departed.
Jareth was dismayed by these recent events. He knew that Olaris was out for him, by trying to rob that which he held nearest to his heart...Sarah.
He would have no other choice now, but to rush things along more quickly than he had anticipated. He knew that Olaris would have no problems gaining favour with the rest of the council, due to the fact that the majority feared him, and his army. Many did not want to go to war. And Jareth was sure of it that he would put in a clause so that they would still be able to rob mortals of their children, to turn into their slaves. But, Jareth would go to battle, just to ensure his beloved's safety, and future home.
Now, though, he would have to bring Sarah to the Underground much sooner than originally thought. But, before he could do just that, she would have to be taught certain things. He would have to instruct her on her future duties and responsibilties, that would be expected of her to perform. Her manners were already near perfect refinement. "But still,", he thought silently, "she is still so young. A sixteen year old girl...my-,",he felt a smile tug at the corners of his mouth, and his brows raised in unision as he said aloud,"wife." Then he shook his head, realizing how much work that had to be done. And how short a time he had to do it in. His plan would be implemented tonight, providing he had Sarah's approval, which he knew he would.
However, he decided that he would hold off on bringing her to the Underground for as long as he possibly could. But he honestly had no idea on exactly how long that could be. All he knew was that he had to move quickly, for time was definately short.
Night came on swift wings for both Jareth and Sarah. And there was much for them to discuss.
It was nearly midnight when Jareth came to her. She had waited for him, sitting next to her window in a white wicker chair, still watching the rain hit her window.
He materialized behind her, and placed his gloved hand on her shoulder. Instantly she rested her head on his hand.
"I waited for you.", she said softly, looking up at him.
"Sarah, there is much that we must talk about - ", she cut him off, and motioned for him to be quiet.
"Karen, and Dad are still up. And I know that they could be listening.", she said sadly.
"What's wrong, My Dear?", Jareth asked with a frown, looking her over to ensure that she was physically well.
"Nothing. I- I just missed you. That's all. What do we have to talk about?" She rested her head on his hand again.
"Sarah, do you really wish to return to the Underground? To give up your mortality?" He watched her reflection in the glass.
"More than anything in the world. I want you to take me away from here, Jareth. Forever." Still, she stared out the window.
"Then, I will take you. Soon. But you must prepare." She turned fully around, and looked at him in astonishment.
"What?", she asked, not believing what he had just said.
"You will accompnay me soon, Sarah. But, right now, there are several arising problems in the Underground. Many that I can't trouble you with. But, if I don't do something presently, I may lose you forever. And that is something that I am not willing to do." His look was serious, and Sarah knew that if something was troubling him this much, then it was great indeed.
"What must I do then?", she asked, alarmed that there were potentially arising problems with her future homeland.
"I will have to teach you your responsibilities. And quickly I might add. I am throwing a formal dinner, for Lord Byron, and his wife, Chloe. Hopefully, I will be able to resolve a few of the uprising issues. But things are going to have to move along rather quickly. I am obliged to produce a rather distinguished lady to the Fae court, Sarah. And you are going to have to know your duties and responsibilities. Along with the limits of the Fae. Especailly Olaris." He cupped her face in his hand. "Are you ready for this, Sarah? Please, don't lie for my sake."
"I am ready, Jareth. Just teach me. Show me. I will do anything!", she said as a smile appeared from ear to ear. She was going to get to leave this horrid world behind, a be happy in the place that she had been meant to belong in. Finally, she would feel at peace, and no longer ridiculed.
Jareth produced three books on her bed. " Read these. They will give you somewhat a brief understanding of your future duties. As well as a brief history of Underground law and traditions. I hope that it will assist you in preparing." He smiled, and sat on her bed. "Your duties will be rather straightforward. I ask that you stay out of any politics. It is sticky business, especially with the Head Council. But keep your wits about you, all the same. For, you will be asked certain questions as many will know that you are engaged to a King of high political standing. But yet, be tactfull, and volunteer no information. About anything. I can't stress this more than enough, Sarah." He looked serious. And Sarah could see that he was somewhat upset. Not with her. But someone was starting to get under his skin.
"I understand. And I suppose, that I am not to mention anything about my mortal life here, aboveground?" She looked at him, her eyes telling him that she didn't want to lie.
"That is fine, Sarah. But- I can't lie to you. The head of the Fae council, a king by the name of Olaris, is presenting certain laws to be placed into effect. Presumably, a law to forbid Fae to take mortals as partners. Slaves, yes. But no unions. There is a strong possibility that he is going to try to invade outer kingdoms, in order to dominate the Underground. And if that law comes into effect, I will lose you. And, I swear, I will fight until the end of time to keep you safe, My Sweet." He took her hand in his, and palced it over his heart.
"How long will it take for a law like that to be passed?", she asked, now a little scared. She had not thought that she would become entangled in a full scale war.
"Not longer than six months, no less than three. That is tradition. But do not worry, Sarah. If we are united before then, there is nothing that can be done about it." He looked at her, and knew from her sad expression, that she felt awful.
"Why would he do this?", was all she asked.
"He is a war monger. He wanted me to marry his sister, Lee, over eight hundred years ago. I couldn't! But what does it matter? He is out to conquer, and rob me of what I hold dear!", Jareth was yeling, enraged at the very thought of what Olaris was attempting to do.
"Shhhh!", Sarah whispered to him, and pointed towards the floor. "They will hear you, Jareth."
"Let them.", he whispered back. " Let them know that a king loves you. Let them know that you are going to be a Gobling Queen! Let them know,--- that I hold you closer to my heart than anything else. Above, or Underground."
She put her arms around him. "Please, Jareth, Don't think me selfish by asking. But what if you came Aboveground? Then you wouldn't have to fight. We could stil be together. And live in peace." She looked him in the eyes. " I don't want to cause a war."
He looked at her. Her eyes were beginning to form tears.
"Sarah,I would die. Then you would lose me. I promise you, I will never let anything happen to you. Please, don't back down because of Olaris. I need you. Just as much as you need me. Be my wife. My queen. My world. Please?"
"I love you so much, Jareth. I will wait for you to teach me more. Every night, until you can take me home. And I will be your queen. Your wife. Your friend. Your companion. Just promise me that you will always be there." She held him tight.
"I swear on all that I hold dear to me." He held her just as tight, his cloak enveloping both of them, seeming to swril around them though in the absence of any form of wind. Then a knock came on her bedroom door.
"Sarah? Sarah, are you still up?" She looked at Jareth, who was beginning to disappear. "My father.", she whispered. He nooded.
"I will return tomorrow night. Until then...", and then he was gone.
She answered the door, and her father was standing there, looking at her bewilderdly.
"Who were you talking to?", he asked, peering into the room.
"No one, Dad. She looked at her watch. It's nearly 1 am. I was just receiting some english homework. That's all." She looked at him, angry that he had interrupted her and her beloved.
"Receiting this late at night? I think that it should have been done hours ago, Dear." He looked at her, knowing that she was trying to hide something.
"I know. I was gettng ready for bed anyways." She started closing the door.
"Goodnihgt then, D-", But it was too late, she had already closed the door. He stood there, and looked at it blankly for a moment, then went in to his own room.
Jareth, too, had the sense to rest. His troubled were just starting. But everything was fine, since Sarah gave him her support. Soon ,he would no longer sleep alone anylonger. Soon, she would always be with him. Soon.......