Chapter 4 Crash Course in Duties
Monday's were always hard for Sarah to start off. Especially in school. Nothing was worse than math class first thing on a Monday morning. Her teacher, Mrs. Coleburn, was a wretched old woman, who would work her students to the bone. Sarah praised the heaven's for allowing her to go with Jareth, and no longer be subjected to this torture any longer.
The rain had stopped for once in the 3 days that it had persisted. Ironically on a schoolday, and Sarah felt somewhat cheated in the deal. But, she had still been able to spend time with Jareth, and that was all that mattered to her. They had been alotted a few sacred hours of time together. And she was anticipating tonight. She had so many questions to ask him. So many wonders of all the things that she and him might be able to do together. Balls, grand parties, and of course, their own private nuances. She blushed at the thought. And looked around her classroom. She would soon no longer have to put up with her ridiculing classmates. They always laughed at her, and called her twisted names. Many told her to get her head out of the clouds. Girls in grade 11 were expected to be with boys all the time, and their girlfriends. Not out reading fairytales. And Sarah loathed them all for everything that they had ever said or done to her. And she was glad that she would no longer have to put up with their sarcastic remarks.
She was so preoccupied in staring out the window, that she didn't even notice Mrs. Coleburn speaking to her.
"Sarah! Sarah Williams!", she called out as she cracked her ruler off of her desk at the front of the room.
Sarah turned to face her in alarm. "Yes, ma'am?", she replied meakly, knowing that her teacher was truly upset that she had not been paying attention.
"Miss Willaims, would you care to enlighten us as to why mathematics is important?", she asked as she crossed her burly arms. She was odd looking. Like a teacher from an old school. She looked like someone who would still take the paddle to any student who crossed her. And her retro style black eyeglasses, resembled something from the fifties.
"I suppose to help us add and subtract sums from our future paycheques, ma'am. Other than that, I really can't see any other use." Sarah sank deep into her seat. Truly embarrased by what she had said. Not that it mattered. In a matter of weeks, months at most, she would be gone. And would probably just disappear from everyone's memories.
"Well, if you hadn't of been daydreaming out that window, Sarah, I am sure that you would not be near the failing level. As well, you would understand why math is the most important subject that you are taught in school. Now, I suggest that you pay attention. I would not like to have to spend an hour after class with you in detention, due to your lack of interest." The woman looked cruel. More cruel than Jareth had ever looked. Her short, grey hair was curled into tight ringlets, that fluffed up to the equivlent of a clown's hair, and her lipstick was the brightest red she could possibly buy. And she wore that much pancake powder, and eyeshadow, that Sarah wondered if it was all that was holding her face together.
Sarah sat in her seat quietly. She didn't even gaze out the window, scared that she would become mesmerized again by her dreams.
The day in school wore on so slow. She ate her lunch on a small park bench, as far away from the other students as she could get. She always did that. She hated their company, becasue they never had anything nice to say to her. Always just cruel comments.
"Screw them all.", she said quietly as she ate her sandwich, and leafed through a book that Jareth had given her, on Fae history.
She actually found it quite interesting. All the dynasties that had been in place. The history behind the development of the Head Council of the Fae. There was even history on the Labyrinth. As far as she could understand, it was Jareth's father who had inherited the throne to the Labyrinth. And, unbeknownst to Sarah, Jareth's mother had been a mortal, just like Sarah. But she couldn't find anything else on his family in any of the books. She made a mental note to herself that she would have to ask him. Perhaps she would still have a mother-in-law. But she could not get over the fact that Jareth was centuries old. He looked no more than thirty. And she wondered if the same would happen to her. Never grow old, and never die. "Immortality.", she thought quietly to herself. Forever is such a long time. Ans she wondered if life would ever get dull. Not likely, living in an immortal world. There would always be something of interest to occupy yourself.
The lunch buzzer rang, and she carefully packed her book into her backpack ,and headed back for class. She brushed by a slew of girls, who just stared at her as she opened her locker. Sarah glanced at them, but would not extend any greeting. She heard them whispering something or other, and decided that she would do nothing. "Let them whisper.", she said quietly. "I won't have to put up with it for long.
She was headed for the one class that she actually enjoyed. English. Her teacher, Mr. Butler, was someone that she could relate to. He had a bit of a wild imagination. Small doodles littered the classroom of tiny goblins and fairies. It was not that he believed in any of the stories, but more or less was just a fan. But he truly respected Sarah as a student, and never made any remarks about anything that she wrote or said. And she liked that about him. He was totally non-judgemental.
Jareth was attending to several matters in the Underground. He had sent out letters to other kingdoms, even those at the far reaches of the Fae world, to protest the law that Olaris was attempting to pass. But he knew that many would not offer Jareth their suport. Jareth commonly referred to them as cowards. But there was nothing that he could do to force them to support him. But he knew that he would have Lord Byron behind him. He had a strong army, and if they combined with Jareth's, things should be alright. But there was no guarantee.
But he knew for certain, that if something were to happen, he would send sarah far away from the Labyrinth, just to protect her.
It was nearly suppertime now, around four o'clock in the afternoon. Robert and Karen were in the kitchen. They had just fed Toby, and were waiting for Sarah to come home, so that they could eat their own supper.
Sarah walked in through the door around seven after. She laid her school bag on the stairs and went into the kitchen. She was hungry. She hadn't had much lunch today, so, she wandered into the kitchen, and sat down at the table.
Karen placed a plate of food infront of her. Steak, and potatoes. That was a change from the usual hamburger products that she normally made. They all began to eat, and Karen watched Sarah carefully.
"So, your father tells me that you have a boyfriend, Sarah. Is this true?", she asked cooly. " I mean, this is the first I have heard about it. And a ring all of a sudden. You must have known him for quite some time."
Sarah looked at her, her face turning a lighter shade of red. "I've known him long enough, Karen.", was all she said, and resumed eating. Karen looked at Robert, then back at Sarah, apparently shocked by her answer.
"Then why were we never told about him?Hmmm? Why did you fail to mention to either of us that he gave you a ring? One that you neglected to even tell either of your parents about?" Karen seemed genuninely angry that Sarah hadn't told her about the ring. Or failed to mention anything about her beloved.
"Maybe, becasue I felt that it was neither of your business. And you are not my parent, Karen. You are my step mohter.And a nosey one at that.", Sarah replied with a hint of sarcasm.
Karen took her hand and examined the ring." Well, he must be well off to be able to afford something like this. And it is our right to know who you are seeing, Sarah. Like it or not, you are still sixteen years old. And like it or not, I am considered a parent to you. And I expect to be notified when something like this happens!" Her eyes were wide, and she was starting to sound upset.
"You make it sound like it is a piece of world news, Karen. And yeah, he is well off. Alot more that you guys are. But I don't think that you will ever get to meet him. Becasue, frankly, he thinks that you are a flake, Karen." Sarah stood up. "Excuse me, I will be in my room. I'm not hungry anymore." Robert looked at her as she left the table.
Karen called after her. "Then you will not leave this house, Young Lady! You hear me? If he won't see your father and I, then he won't see you!" She sipped her tea.
"He won't care. He'll get around it. And there's nothing that you can do!", Sarah yelled back ,and then ran up the stairs.
Robert looked at his wife. "You could have been a little more sensitive to her you know. I'm sure that she will tell us in her own time.", he said cooly. "You didn't have to be so drastic."
"That is your problem, Robert. You have always let her walk all over you. Can you imagine what our social position would be like if her were a---a pauper? We would be the talk of the neighbourhood! And all becasue the little miss can't get a half decent boy. Well, Robert, I cetainly will not have that! And, by rights, we should have been consulted as to her seeing a boy. And we should have had the choice to approve or not of this relationship. She is just like Linda." Robert looked up atthe mention of his former wife's name. "She's a dreamer. And look at her. Off gallyvanting all the time. Well, we can let this boy come to us if he wants to see Sarah." Karen was ruthless.
Sarah was sitting on her bed.
"That witch! She thinks that she can keep us apart, does she. Well, I have news for her. She can't. Jareth will not stand for her nonsense. As if we don't have enough problems as it is!" She put the pillow over her face and moaned. "I can't wait to get the hell out of here!" She laid on her bed, on her back. Her dark hair was laying limplessly about, and her legs hung over the side of the bed. She felt overheated in her grey cable knit sweater, and jeans, but hey, what was the point of changing? She wasn't allowed out becasue of Karen, and her budding in.
"I hate that woman, so much.", she mumbled aloud. " She is just so annoying! What does she care what I do? She never cared before."
Her father knocked on her door. "Sarah, Sarah, can I talk to you?"
"Go away! Just-just leave me alone. All of you! Get it through your heads that I don't want you guys knowing everything! I want my privacy. And tell that witch to stay out of my life!", Sarah screamed.
Her father opened the door. "Now, Sarah, I hardly find that fair."
"Nothing is fair, Dad. I had a hard time learning that. And Karen needs to learn it too. Just leave me alone!", she wailed. "None of you understand. You'll never understand!", she threw a pillow at the door, and pulled herself into a ball on her bed.
"Sarah, please- don't be like this.", Robert said as he rested a hand on her back.
"Dad, just go away.", she said softly as she sobbed. "Just.....go away."
Her father frowned as he got up and left. He felt badly for Sarah, but there was nothing that he could do. She and Karen had never gotten along. And probably never would. Though their relationship had somewhat improved.
Hours passed, but Sarah would still not come out of her room. She just laid there waiting for Jareth to come. She had overheard Karen and her father talking in the living room. She could make out enough to understand that it was her they were discussing. But she didn't care. She would not give that woman the gratification of apologizing. After all, Sarah felt that her actions had been justified.
Again, Jareth came to her. It was nearly the stroke of twelve when he appeared. He was saddened by the state that he found her.
He rushed to the side of her bed, and gave her a gentle shake, rousing her from her doze. He knew that she had been crying, but over what, he could only guess.
"Jareth.", she whispered. "I can't take it anymore. That woman. She is so- horrid!", she mumbled, nearly on the verge of tears again.
"What has she done?", he asked, helping her to sit up, and wrapping his sparkling cloak about her.
"So many questions. I can't tell them who you are. They would think that we are crazy. Both of us. And I am not allowed to leave the house until she meets you. How can we possibly do this? Everything is against US! Everything. Is it worth all this trouble? I know that the problems Underground are greater than what you are letting on. So tell me. Please!" Her eyes shone with sadness and tears. Jareth could not believe his ears. Her tornment must be considerable for her to be asking such questions. He cradled her in his arms, and gently rocked her back and forth.
"Sarah, it is worth it. I would move the stars for you. I will deal with the problems Underground, and together we shall triumph. You will see. But I cannot leave you here like this tonight. You are a mess, Dear." He stroked her hair gently, and kissed her forehead.
"Where will we go? They will know that I'm gone, Jareth.", she looked scared. And he knew that she still didn't want him to leave.
He waved his hand towards the door, and locked it with a flick of his wrist.
"They will never know the difference, Sarah. I will bring you back intime for classes tomorrow. But you need rest. And this isn't helping us any. I will take you home. And teach you some things, then put you to bed. Is that alright?", he asked looking into her eyes while he held her face in his hands. However, he knew that his actions were against his better judgement.
She nodded in agreement, and wiped away her tears. Slowly they vanished, and appeared in a large library.
Sarah was still wrapped in his cloak, but was sitting on the floor infront of a large fireplace, and Jareth was still by her side. He stood first, and then took her by the hands, and helped her up as well. She looked around shocked by the vast numbers of books. Some so large it would take two or three people to lift.
He watched her, clearly amused. "This is my private library, Sarah. Though, when you are here, feel free to wander about as you please. He pointed to a doorway. Those are my private chambers. Again, feel free to go there as you please. After all, this will soon be your new home. A much more lavish one I might add." He turned away from her, and went to a large mahogony table that was littered with books and loose papers. He picked up a sheet of paper. It was some matter of state. He glanced over it, and looked back at Sarah.
She was walking about the room. Touching things, examining them at random. She laid his cloak on a velvet covered chair, and walked towards him.
"Have you learned much today, about the Fae, Sarah?", he asked, still looking through the papers until he found the one that he wanted.
"Much. I didn't think that the Underground was so big.", she smiled. "Nor that there were so many of you that fell in love with mortals. Like-your father." She lowered her head, hoping that she hadn't struck a bad spot for him.
He turned and looked at her. "So, you have been reading up, haven't you.", he said as he grinned. "My mother was a truly wonderful woman. My father treated her much like an equal. And slowly, she became a Fae, much like you will. She was my father's soft side. Yet, she could bedazzle any man." He turned toward the fire, and stoked it with the steel poker. "You'll quickly learn that we do have limitations though, Sarah. Iron being one of them, and the fact that we can be killed. That-", he paused for a moment to reflect, then began, speaking somewhat sadly," that's how my parents died. Defending a ramshackle kingdom from a Fae much like Olaris. And then, I, along with Lord Byron, defeated him. Nearly five hundred years ago. And, well, here I am." He looked at her, standing perfectly erect. He pulled on his waist coat to straighten it, and tightened his gloves.
"I'm sorry to hear that, Jareth. And, becasue of me, you may have to go to war. Again." She turned away from him, and sat in the same chair where she had laid his cloak.
"That is different,Sarah. And it may not come to that. Either way, I can't bear the pain of losing you. I will have support. It is amazing what wealth and political standing can get you." He put his arms around her, and brushed his lips against hers. "Your love is worth all of it." She smiled at him, and stroked his cheek.
"Any event, we must get you ready for your duty, My Sweet.", he said with a chuckle of laughter. "You are already so charming and perfect, that you have lessened my duty already. However, a lady must never slouch while seated. Now, straighten yourself up." Sarah sat up perfectly straight, and gave him a large smile.
"Like this?", she asked curlty.
"Absolutely perfect. Your corset will help you with this as well. And you must never seat yourself. Always wait for a gentleman, such as myself, to assist you. Even when putting on your cloak." He walked around her, examining her. "Yes, I beleive that the gowns I am having made for you will look ravishing on you." He put his finger to his mouth, and his other hand behind his back.
"I never knew that you were a gentleman, Jareth.", she said with a laugh."And, what do you mean by a corset?", Sarah asked, a little discouraged by the idea.
"Relax. It will not bee too tight. Think of it as-- as any regular undergarnment that you might wear. And it will only be for a couple of hours, Sarah. Trust me. You must do that. Otherwise you will not have the perfect stature." He smiled coyly. "And, beleive me, in the Fae, stature is everything." He kneeled infront of her, and took her hand in his.
"You seemed so much like a spoiled child, when we first met.", Sarah said softly. "I don't think that you ever wanted to be a Golin King. I think that you were forced into it. Just as you said, 'Here I am.'" She looked at him, and ran her fingers through his hair. "You think that you have to teach me about laws, and responsibilities. Yet, here you are, perfectly miserable in your world, as what I am in my own. And you preach to me what is right and what is wrong." Her eyes followed his. " This is totally unrelated to what you are talking about, I know. But, how are we to be happy, together, when neither of us is happy with ourselves?" Her questions were honest, and Jareth's heart longed for the answers. He felt as though Sarah would lift anything that was left to weigh down his shoulders.
"Your happiness, is my own. Sarah, I stand before you, offering you your dreams. All in exchange for your love." He held her hand that wore his ring. "You promised yourself to me, Sarah. The weight of this...kingdom, if you can call it that, is of no importance. It was a duty that was forced upone me. Yes, I have grown accustomed to having my own way. More than once, I can tell you. And spoiled barely scratches the surface. I have had beautiful women fall to my feet. And yet, I stand to fall at yours. The mortal who stole theh heart of the mighty Goblin King." He paced the floor infront of the fireplace, and Sarah watched him intently. "I admit that I tried to have my way with you. I tried to bend your will. And you fought. And you won. Not just the battle, but my heart. What I felt for you that dreadful day was nothing short of respect. Yet, I can't possibly figure out what possessed you to surrender your dreams, to save such a brat."
Sarah smiled at him."Perhaps, it was the fact that I knew my duties, and responsibilities."
He looked at her. And it dawned on him that she did know what she was talking about, afterall. "You are right,My Dear. So right. And so ingenious that you bested me yet again." He caressed her cheek. "But still, so young, and so beautiful."
"Too young to keep, and too old to turn into a goblin.", she finished. He smiled.
"No. No, you are wrong there, Sarah. You are perfect to keep. Just the way you are. So pure. So innocent. So--beautiful.", he murmered into her ear, as he kissed it gently. His kisses moved down her neck ,then to her throat, and he gently kissed her lips.
She pulled back slowly after a moment, and looked into his mismatched eyes. "And so tired, your Majesty.", she added with delightful tiredness.
He looked her face over, and brushed a stray hair behind her ear. "As you wish. Rest will benefit us both. I never thought that I would ever meet my match, Sarah. Someone who could outwit the Mighty Goblin King. And yet, here I stand, before you, wishing very much to take care of you. To give you your dreams. And maybe even share them with you. You are right. I need not preach to you about duty. You already know that loyalty is a duty in itself. Jsut remeber, be the lady that you are. Graceful ,elegant, witty, and your usual charming self. However,", he bagan slyly," you will have to be taught the etiquette of a queen. And I have just the teacher in mind for you."
Sarah gave him a look of contempt. A teacher? "If you have to. But please, keep it simple. I already have so many things to read. Now, bed would be a nice idea. And lots of warm blankets. Maybe a fireplace."
"Exhausting me with your expectations, again, are we? I thought that I explained to you already, prior to your defeating me, that I am so exhausted of that." He chuckled, and Sarah looked down, a little embarassed. "However, I think that such a room can be arranged for the woman I intend ot marry." She loked up and smiled. " OF course, it may entail a certian Goblin King giving up his own bed, for a guest. But I think that that would be acceptable under the circumstances." Sarah smiled up at him.
"Thank you.", she whispered.
"I suppose that a proper dressing gown is in need as well." He raised his arm in the direction of his own personal quarters, motioning for Sarah to walk ahead of him.
His room was rather plainly decorated. A few family portraits hung here and there, and the bed was large, with massive oak head and footboards. The blankets were thick and fluffy, and such a dark grey color that it almost resembled black. It looked so soft and inviting. On top, laid an elegant victorian style dressing gown. It had lots of frills and lace, and was long and flowing. Surely not something that could be found in a store this day in age.
"You can change. Tolietries are at your disposal, as well, and then you may rest." he kissed her on the forehead. "Sweet dreams, Sarah. I will be in the throne room if you need anything. Just call me with this." He produced a crystal, and laid it gently into her hand."Until morning." He said as he bagan to vanish.
"See you in my dreams.", she whispered as she blew him a soft kiss.
She picked up the night gown, and twirled around, holding it up to her shoulders like she would have if she were still a little girl. She laughed merrily as her brown hair wrapped itself about her face, and she stopped and looked at herself in the tall mirror.
Jareth had everything in that room. Lush drapes, the color of ebony, and a balcony with beautiful colonial french doors. She glanced out of them, and seen the labyrinth enveloped in darkness. It was sort of scary, yet beautiful in a strange way. The chime of the nearby wallclock took her off guard. She glanced at it. It was thirteen o'clock. She smiled, and laughed gently to herself, thinking that this place was so different from the above. The place that she hated so much.
Monday's were always hard for Sarah to start off. Especially in school. Nothing was worse than math class first thing on a Monday morning. Her teacher, Mrs. Coleburn, was a wretched old woman, who would work her students to the bone. Sarah praised the heaven's for allowing her to go with Jareth, and no longer be subjected to this torture any longer.
The rain had stopped for once in the 3 days that it had persisted. Ironically on a schoolday, and Sarah felt somewhat cheated in the deal. But, she had still been able to spend time with Jareth, and that was all that mattered to her. They had been alotted a few sacred hours of time together. And she was anticipating tonight. She had so many questions to ask him. So many wonders of all the things that she and him might be able to do together. Balls, grand parties, and of course, their own private nuances. She blushed at the thought. And looked around her classroom. She would soon no longer have to put up with her ridiculing classmates. They always laughed at her, and called her twisted names. Many told her to get her head out of the clouds. Girls in grade 11 were expected to be with boys all the time, and their girlfriends. Not out reading fairytales. And Sarah loathed them all for everything that they had ever said or done to her. And she was glad that she would no longer have to put up with their sarcastic remarks.
She was so preoccupied in staring out the window, that she didn't even notice Mrs. Coleburn speaking to her.
"Sarah! Sarah Williams!", she called out as she cracked her ruler off of her desk at the front of the room.
Sarah turned to face her in alarm. "Yes, ma'am?", she replied meakly, knowing that her teacher was truly upset that she had not been paying attention.
"Miss Willaims, would you care to enlighten us as to why mathematics is important?", she asked as she crossed her burly arms. She was odd looking. Like a teacher from an old school. She looked like someone who would still take the paddle to any student who crossed her. And her retro style black eyeglasses, resembled something from the fifties.
"I suppose to help us add and subtract sums from our future paycheques, ma'am. Other than that, I really can't see any other use." Sarah sank deep into her seat. Truly embarrased by what she had said. Not that it mattered. In a matter of weeks, months at most, she would be gone. And would probably just disappear from everyone's memories.
"Well, if you hadn't of been daydreaming out that window, Sarah, I am sure that you would not be near the failing level. As well, you would understand why math is the most important subject that you are taught in school. Now, I suggest that you pay attention. I would not like to have to spend an hour after class with you in detention, due to your lack of interest." The woman looked cruel. More cruel than Jareth had ever looked. Her short, grey hair was curled into tight ringlets, that fluffed up to the equivlent of a clown's hair, and her lipstick was the brightest red she could possibly buy. And she wore that much pancake powder, and eyeshadow, that Sarah wondered if it was all that was holding her face together.
Sarah sat in her seat quietly. She didn't even gaze out the window, scared that she would become mesmerized again by her dreams.
The day in school wore on so slow. She ate her lunch on a small park bench, as far away from the other students as she could get. She always did that. She hated their company, becasue they never had anything nice to say to her. Always just cruel comments.
"Screw them all.", she said quietly as she ate her sandwich, and leafed through a book that Jareth had given her, on Fae history.
She actually found it quite interesting. All the dynasties that had been in place. The history behind the development of the Head Council of the Fae. There was even history on the Labyrinth. As far as she could understand, it was Jareth's father who had inherited the throne to the Labyrinth. And, unbeknownst to Sarah, Jareth's mother had been a mortal, just like Sarah. But she couldn't find anything else on his family in any of the books. She made a mental note to herself that she would have to ask him. Perhaps she would still have a mother-in-law. But she could not get over the fact that Jareth was centuries old. He looked no more than thirty. And she wondered if the same would happen to her. Never grow old, and never die. "Immortality.", she thought quietly to herself. Forever is such a long time. Ans she wondered if life would ever get dull. Not likely, living in an immortal world. There would always be something of interest to occupy yourself.
The lunch buzzer rang, and she carefully packed her book into her backpack ,and headed back for class. She brushed by a slew of girls, who just stared at her as she opened her locker. Sarah glanced at them, but would not extend any greeting. She heard them whispering something or other, and decided that she would do nothing. "Let them whisper.", she said quietly. "I won't have to put up with it for long.
She was headed for the one class that she actually enjoyed. English. Her teacher, Mr. Butler, was someone that she could relate to. He had a bit of a wild imagination. Small doodles littered the classroom of tiny goblins and fairies. It was not that he believed in any of the stories, but more or less was just a fan. But he truly respected Sarah as a student, and never made any remarks about anything that she wrote or said. And she liked that about him. He was totally non-judgemental.
Jareth was attending to several matters in the Underground. He had sent out letters to other kingdoms, even those at the far reaches of the Fae world, to protest the law that Olaris was attempting to pass. But he knew that many would not offer Jareth their suport. Jareth commonly referred to them as cowards. But there was nothing that he could do to force them to support him. But he knew that he would have Lord Byron behind him. He had a strong army, and if they combined with Jareth's, things should be alright. But there was no guarantee.
But he knew for certain, that if something were to happen, he would send sarah far away from the Labyrinth, just to protect her.
It was nearly suppertime now, around four o'clock in the afternoon. Robert and Karen were in the kitchen. They had just fed Toby, and were waiting for Sarah to come home, so that they could eat their own supper.
Sarah walked in through the door around seven after. She laid her school bag on the stairs and went into the kitchen. She was hungry. She hadn't had much lunch today, so, she wandered into the kitchen, and sat down at the table.
Karen placed a plate of food infront of her. Steak, and potatoes. That was a change from the usual hamburger products that she normally made. They all began to eat, and Karen watched Sarah carefully.
"So, your father tells me that you have a boyfriend, Sarah. Is this true?", she asked cooly. " I mean, this is the first I have heard about it. And a ring all of a sudden. You must have known him for quite some time."
Sarah looked at her, her face turning a lighter shade of red. "I've known him long enough, Karen.", was all she said, and resumed eating. Karen looked at Robert, then back at Sarah, apparently shocked by her answer.
"Then why were we never told about him?Hmmm? Why did you fail to mention to either of us that he gave you a ring? One that you neglected to even tell either of your parents about?" Karen seemed genuninely angry that Sarah hadn't told her about the ring. Or failed to mention anything about her beloved.
"Maybe, becasue I felt that it was neither of your business. And you are not my parent, Karen. You are my step mohter.And a nosey one at that.", Sarah replied with a hint of sarcasm.
Karen took her hand and examined the ring." Well, he must be well off to be able to afford something like this. And it is our right to know who you are seeing, Sarah. Like it or not, you are still sixteen years old. And like it or not, I am considered a parent to you. And I expect to be notified when something like this happens!" Her eyes were wide, and she was starting to sound upset.
"You make it sound like it is a piece of world news, Karen. And yeah, he is well off. Alot more that you guys are. But I don't think that you will ever get to meet him. Becasue, frankly, he thinks that you are a flake, Karen." Sarah stood up. "Excuse me, I will be in my room. I'm not hungry anymore." Robert looked at her as she left the table.
Karen called after her. "Then you will not leave this house, Young Lady! You hear me? If he won't see your father and I, then he won't see you!" She sipped her tea.
"He won't care. He'll get around it. And there's nothing that you can do!", Sarah yelled back ,and then ran up the stairs.
Robert looked at his wife. "You could have been a little more sensitive to her you know. I'm sure that she will tell us in her own time.", he said cooly. "You didn't have to be so drastic."
"That is your problem, Robert. You have always let her walk all over you. Can you imagine what our social position would be like if her were a---a pauper? We would be the talk of the neighbourhood! And all becasue the little miss can't get a half decent boy. Well, Robert, I cetainly will not have that! And, by rights, we should have been consulted as to her seeing a boy. And we should have had the choice to approve or not of this relationship. She is just like Linda." Robert looked up atthe mention of his former wife's name. "She's a dreamer. And look at her. Off gallyvanting all the time. Well, we can let this boy come to us if he wants to see Sarah." Karen was ruthless.
Sarah was sitting on her bed.
"That witch! She thinks that she can keep us apart, does she. Well, I have news for her. She can't. Jareth will not stand for her nonsense. As if we don't have enough problems as it is!" She put the pillow over her face and moaned. "I can't wait to get the hell out of here!" She laid on her bed, on her back. Her dark hair was laying limplessly about, and her legs hung over the side of the bed. She felt overheated in her grey cable knit sweater, and jeans, but hey, what was the point of changing? She wasn't allowed out becasue of Karen, and her budding in.
"I hate that woman, so much.", she mumbled aloud. " She is just so annoying! What does she care what I do? She never cared before."
Her father knocked on her door. "Sarah, Sarah, can I talk to you?"
"Go away! Just-just leave me alone. All of you! Get it through your heads that I don't want you guys knowing everything! I want my privacy. And tell that witch to stay out of my life!", Sarah screamed.
Her father opened the door. "Now, Sarah, I hardly find that fair."
"Nothing is fair, Dad. I had a hard time learning that. And Karen needs to learn it too. Just leave me alone!", she wailed. "None of you understand. You'll never understand!", she threw a pillow at the door, and pulled herself into a ball on her bed.
"Sarah, please- don't be like this.", Robert said as he rested a hand on her back.
"Dad, just go away.", she said softly as she sobbed. "Just.....go away."
Her father frowned as he got up and left. He felt badly for Sarah, but there was nothing that he could do. She and Karen had never gotten along. And probably never would. Though their relationship had somewhat improved.
Hours passed, but Sarah would still not come out of her room. She just laid there waiting for Jareth to come. She had overheard Karen and her father talking in the living room. She could make out enough to understand that it was her they were discussing. But she didn't care. She would not give that woman the gratification of apologizing. After all, Sarah felt that her actions had been justified.
Again, Jareth came to her. It was nearly the stroke of twelve when he appeared. He was saddened by the state that he found her.
He rushed to the side of her bed, and gave her a gentle shake, rousing her from her doze. He knew that she had been crying, but over what, he could only guess.
"Jareth.", she whispered. "I can't take it anymore. That woman. She is so- horrid!", she mumbled, nearly on the verge of tears again.
"What has she done?", he asked, helping her to sit up, and wrapping his sparkling cloak about her.
"So many questions. I can't tell them who you are. They would think that we are crazy. Both of us. And I am not allowed to leave the house until she meets you. How can we possibly do this? Everything is against US! Everything. Is it worth all this trouble? I know that the problems Underground are greater than what you are letting on. So tell me. Please!" Her eyes shone with sadness and tears. Jareth could not believe his ears. Her tornment must be considerable for her to be asking such questions. He cradled her in his arms, and gently rocked her back and forth.
"Sarah, it is worth it. I would move the stars for you. I will deal with the problems Underground, and together we shall triumph. You will see. But I cannot leave you here like this tonight. You are a mess, Dear." He stroked her hair gently, and kissed her forehead.
"Where will we go? They will know that I'm gone, Jareth.", she looked scared. And he knew that she still didn't want him to leave.
He waved his hand towards the door, and locked it with a flick of his wrist.
"They will never know the difference, Sarah. I will bring you back intime for classes tomorrow. But you need rest. And this isn't helping us any. I will take you home. And teach you some things, then put you to bed. Is that alright?", he asked looking into her eyes while he held her face in his hands. However, he knew that his actions were against his better judgement.
She nodded in agreement, and wiped away her tears. Slowly they vanished, and appeared in a large library.
Sarah was still wrapped in his cloak, but was sitting on the floor infront of a large fireplace, and Jareth was still by her side. He stood first, and then took her by the hands, and helped her up as well. She looked around shocked by the vast numbers of books. Some so large it would take two or three people to lift.
He watched her, clearly amused. "This is my private library, Sarah. Though, when you are here, feel free to wander about as you please. He pointed to a doorway. Those are my private chambers. Again, feel free to go there as you please. After all, this will soon be your new home. A much more lavish one I might add." He turned away from her, and went to a large mahogony table that was littered with books and loose papers. He picked up a sheet of paper. It was some matter of state. He glanced over it, and looked back at Sarah.
She was walking about the room. Touching things, examining them at random. She laid his cloak on a velvet covered chair, and walked towards him.
"Have you learned much today, about the Fae, Sarah?", he asked, still looking through the papers until he found the one that he wanted.
"Much. I didn't think that the Underground was so big.", she smiled. "Nor that there were so many of you that fell in love with mortals. Like-your father." She lowered her head, hoping that she hadn't struck a bad spot for him.
He turned and looked at her. "So, you have been reading up, haven't you.", he said as he grinned. "My mother was a truly wonderful woman. My father treated her much like an equal. And slowly, she became a Fae, much like you will. She was my father's soft side. Yet, she could bedazzle any man." He turned toward the fire, and stoked it with the steel poker. "You'll quickly learn that we do have limitations though, Sarah. Iron being one of them, and the fact that we can be killed. That-", he paused for a moment to reflect, then began, speaking somewhat sadly," that's how my parents died. Defending a ramshackle kingdom from a Fae much like Olaris. And then, I, along with Lord Byron, defeated him. Nearly five hundred years ago. And, well, here I am." He looked at her, standing perfectly erect. He pulled on his waist coat to straighten it, and tightened his gloves.
"I'm sorry to hear that, Jareth. And, becasue of me, you may have to go to war. Again." She turned away from him, and sat in the same chair where she had laid his cloak.
"That is different,Sarah. And it may not come to that. Either way, I can't bear the pain of losing you. I will have support. It is amazing what wealth and political standing can get you." He put his arms around her, and brushed his lips against hers. "Your love is worth all of it." She smiled at him, and stroked his cheek.
"Any event, we must get you ready for your duty, My Sweet.", he said with a chuckle of laughter. "You are already so charming and perfect, that you have lessened my duty already. However, a lady must never slouch while seated. Now, straighten yourself up." Sarah sat up perfectly straight, and gave him a large smile.
"Like this?", she asked curlty.
"Absolutely perfect. Your corset will help you with this as well. And you must never seat yourself. Always wait for a gentleman, such as myself, to assist you. Even when putting on your cloak." He walked around her, examining her. "Yes, I beleive that the gowns I am having made for you will look ravishing on you." He put his finger to his mouth, and his other hand behind his back.
"I never knew that you were a gentleman, Jareth.", she said with a laugh."And, what do you mean by a corset?", Sarah asked, a little discouraged by the idea.
"Relax. It will not bee too tight. Think of it as-- as any regular undergarnment that you might wear. And it will only be for a couple of hours, Sarah. Trust me. You must do that. Otherwise you will not have the perfect stature." He smiled coyly. "And, beleive me, in the Fae, stature is everything." He kneeled infront of her, and took her hand in his.
"You seemed so much like a spoiled child, when we first met.", Sarah said softly. "I don't think that you ever wanted to be a Golin King. I think that you were forced into it. Just as you said, 'Here I am.'" She looked at him, and ran her fingers through his hair. "You think that you have to teach me about laws, and responsibilities. Yet, here you are, perfectly miserable in your world, as what I am in my own. And you preach to me what is right and what is wrong." Her eyes followed his. " This is totally unrelated to what you are talking about, I know. But, how are we to be happy, together, when neither of us is happy with ourselves?" Her questions were honest, and Jareth's heart longed for the answers. He felt as though Sarah would lift anything that was left to weigh down his shoulders.
"Your happiness, is my own. Sarah, I stand before you, offering you your dreams. All in exchange for your love." He held her hand that wore his ring. "You promised yourself to me, Sarah. The weight of this...kingdom, if you can call it that, is of no importance. It was a duty that was forced upone me. Yes, I have grown accustomed to having my own way. More than once, I can tell you. And spoiled barely scratches the surface. I have had beautiful women fall to my feet. And yet, I stand to fall at yours. The mortal who stole theh heart of the mighty Goblin King." He paced the floor infront of the fireplace, and Sarah watched him intently. "I admit that I tried to have my way with you. I tried to bend your will. And you fought. And you won. Not just the battle, but my heart. What I felt for you that dreadful day was nothing short of respect. Yet, I can't possibly figure out what possessed you to surrender your dreams, to save such a brat."
Sarah smiled at him."Perhaps, it was the fact that I knew my duties, and responsibilities."
He looked at her. And it dawned on him that she did know what she was talking about, afterall. "You are right,My Dear. So right. And so ingenious that you bested me yet again." He caressed her cheek. "But still, so young, and so beautiful."
"Too young to keep, and too old to turn into a goblin.", she finished. He smiled.
"No. No, you are wrong there, Sarah. You are perfect to keep. Just the way you are. So pure. So innocent. So--beautiful.", he murmered into her ear, as he kissed it gently. His kisses moved down her neck ,then to her throat, and he gently kissed her lips.
She pulled back slowly after a moment, and looked into his mismatched eyes. "And so tired, your Majesty.", she added with delightful tiredness.
He looked her face over, and brushed a stray hair behind her ear. "As you wish. Rest will benefit us both. I never thought that I would ever meet my match, Sarah. Someone who could outwit the Mighty Goblin King. And yet, here I stand, before you, wishing very much to take care of you. To give you your dreams. And maybe even share them with you. You are right. I need not preach to you about duty. You already know that loyalty is a duty in itself. Jsut remeber, be the lady that you are. Graceful ,elegant, witty, and your usual charming self. However,", he bagan slyly," you will have to be taught the etiquette of a queen. And I have just the teacher in mind for you."
Sarah gave him a look of contempt. A teacher? "If you have to. But please, keep it simple. I already have so many things to read. Now, bed would be a nice idea. And lots of warm blankets. Maybe a fireplace."
"Exhausting me with your expectations, again, are we? I thought that I explained to you already, prior to your defeating me, that I am so exhausted of that." He chuckled, and Sarah looked down, a little embarassed. "However, I think that such a room can be arranged for the woman I intend ot marry." She loked up and smiled. " OF course, it may entail a certian Goblin King giving up his own bed, for a guest. But I think that that would be acceptable under the circumstances." Sarah smiled up at him.
"Thank you.", she whispered.
"I suppose that a proper dressing gown is in need as well." He raised his arm in the direction of his own personal quarters, motioning for Sarah to walk ahead of him.
His room was rather plainly decorated. A few family portraits hung here and there, and the bed was large, with massive oak head and footboards. The blankets were thick and fluffy, and such a dark grey color that it almost resembled black. It looked so soft and inviting. On top, laid an elegant victorian style dressing gown. It had lots of frills and lace, and was long and flowing. Surely not something that could be found in a store this day in age.
"You can change. Tolietries are at your disposal, as well, and then you may rest." he kissed her on the forehead. "Sweet dreams, Sarah. I will be in the throne room if you need anything. Just call me with this." He produced a crystal, and laid it gently into her hand."Until morning." He said as he bagan to vanish.
"See you in my dreams.", she whispered as she blew him a soft kiss.
She picked up the night gown, and twirled around, holding it up to her shoulders like she would have if she were still a little girl. She laughed merrily as her brown hair wrapped itself about her face, and she stopped and looked at herself in the tall mirror.
Jareth had everything in that room. Lush drapes, the color of ebony, and a balcony with beautiful colonial french doors. She glanced out of them, and seen the labyrinth enveloped in darkness. It was sort of scary, yet beautiful in a strange way. The chime of the nearby wallclock took her off guard. She glanced at it. It was thirteen o'clock. She smiled, and laughed gently to herself, thinking that this place was so different from the above. The place that she hated so much.