Chapter 6 A Plan In Motion Tues
Sarah was quite content with their plan. But she felt bad for her father. He had never really done anything to hurt her. Infact, he had always been there for her. Especially when her real mother hadn't. And he had given her leway when Karen wouldn't even give her room to breathe. She would make sure that Jareth did nothing to him. She had always loved and respected her father. And always would. And she knew that she would probably never see him again. Once she became a Fae, if she ever came Aboveground for long, Jareth told her that she would die. A fate that Jareth was trying to prevent with all his mind, body and soul.
Sarah looked around the library. Jareth was watching her intently. Her eyes wandered from here to there, taking in all the sights that she hadn't seen last night. Books. Books were everywhere. And papers were scattered about the tables. A large grandfather clock slowly tick tocked as the large pendulum swung back and forth. She moved towards the window, where she was taken away by the sights. The Labyrinth no longer seemed so threatening in the daylight, as it had in the pitch dark. The gardens, the hedges- they were all just so beautiful. Something that had caused her so much grief now overjoyed her heart. It was rather ironic.
Jareth stepped beside her at the window ledge.
"Lady Sarah, may I present to you, your new home and kingdom.", he said gazing out alongside her. His arm moved up to encircle her waist, and he pulled her close to him.
"It is so beautiful.", she whispered. "All I ever remembered was how much pain it casued me. I never realized that it was so beautiful."
She watched strange bird-like creatures soaring high, and then seen goblins scurrying about the labyrinth walls. She knew that they were apparently lost, but still found them to be a rather comical bunch. They were funny little creatures. Loyal to anyone that gave them food and a place to rest for the night. Sarah could see them wandering about the Goblin City. It was a ramshackle place. The small houses were falling apart, and the streets were littered with garbage. There was a large fountian off to one side, where a few were gathered with buckets, retrieving water, and taking it back to their homes. Many of the roof tops were sagging, and beginning to cave in, and the chimmneys were crooked with black smoke bellowing from the fires in the fireplaces.
Jareth brushed her hair to one side, and kissed her ear, moving down to her neck. She smiled, and looked into his eyes.
"All of this is yours now, Sarah.", he said as he ran his gloved fingers through her hair. "All this, and anything else that you want. All you ever have to do is ask it of me, and I will ensure that it is delivered to you."
"This isn't mine, Jareth. This is all ours.", she replied, kissing his hand. " And as for requests, I would love some breakfast. A breakfast befitting a princess.", she said as she smiled gloriously.
"Food and drink are all yours, My Dear. Come, and we shall dine together in my dining hall. And, afterwords, you can bathe, and dress, and we shall pay a rather quick visit to your family" He smiled wanly. "Perhaps, let them in on our plans. Hmmmm?" His blonde hair blew gently, and Sarah nodded in agreement. "And then, perhaps, a tour of your new home?", he added suggestively, his eyebrows slightly raised.
Sarah smiled, and nodded again in agreement. She knew that she was going to enjoy her life in the Labyrinth. Even if it did stretch out into the equivelent of infinity.
Jareth took her by her hand, and rubbed his fingers gently over the ring that he had given her. And he thought about his mother. Sarah had a spirit much like her own. Kind, gentle, and caring were all qualities that they shared when she had lived. And for once, Jareth actually felt the remorse of his parents' deaths. But having Sarah with him, brought so much joy to his heart, that he could barely contain it.
The dining room was spacious. A large mahogony table and chairs occupied much of the space. And a large ornate, wrought iron chandelier filled the ceiling. The candle wax resembled icicles from the dripping wax over the past few years. And the heavy burgundy drapes gave the room a regal feeling to it. On the table a large feast had been prepared. Fruits of every imaginable size, shape ,and color were everywhere displayed on silver trays. There was also tea in a silver teapot, and toast with fresh butter and jam. There was meat, and strange looking eggs that were rather large, and oddly colored with blue and purple speckles. It was just so much for her to take in. Sarah stood at the end of the table in awe of what beheld her eyes. She had never seen such a table set.
Jareth watched the expressions as they drifted over her face. He was pleased that she was finding so many things amusing and odd. It held her interest. Perhaps together they could make eternity seem a little less dull and repeatative. He pulled the large chair out for her, and gestured for her to sit. The velvet seat was soft and inviting beneath her, and the arm had a magnificent curl on the rests. Jareth sat himself down, at the far end of the table, and just as he did, a small goblin scurried out of a doorway, and began pouring each of them something that resembled tea.
Sarah looked into the cup. The liquid had a strong odour in the silver cup, but the aroma was somewhat pleasing. It was something entirely different than tea.
"What is it?", she asked Jareth, as she held the cup up to her face and examined its' contents.
"Alderberry tea.", he said with a chuckle. "Something that you can only get in the Underground. The preferred drink of the Fae. I think that you will like it. If not right away, you will be surprised as to how fast the taste will grow on you." He smiled as he sipped it. "Go on. Try it."
Sarah lifted the cup to her lips, and tasted it. It felt like liquid silver going down her throat. But the taste was somewhat exquisite. It was entirely different from anything that she had ever tasted before. It was sweet, yet not a sweetness that you would taste from sugar. And yet it was tart, and somewhat bitter. But not a distasteful bitterness. I had a taste entirely its' own. And a remarkable one at that. She smiled as she sipped some more of the tea.
"I take it that you like then?", he asked, apparently pleased. "You will find that many of the things here, will be quite different from Aboveground. Especailly the food, and customs. You will like some things, and dispise others. But for the most part, I think that you will be pleased with more than you will be displeased with." He began placing some of the sliced fruits and delicacies on to his plate. With each item he took, he told Sarah what it was, and how to eat it properly.
They made simple conversation, and each time that Sarah smiled, Jareth's heart soared high. Their love for one another was beginning to bloom, even though they were faced with potential tragedy. And together they laughed, and converesed about their future together. He no longer thought of her as a sixteen year old school girl, but as a woman, who knew about life.
She tried many of the things that had dressed the table, and together they found that she liked almost everything. Somethings gave her bodily sensations, while others were bland and tasteless to her. Some made her face wince with the taste, while others made her smile, laugh, and want more.
By now, over an hour had passed, and goblins were taking the food from the table to be thrown away, or for the ones in the throne room to devour. And Jareth and Sarah sat together, still just talking. Jareth was sure that they had made the right decision. To be together forever. No matter what had happened.
"Come, and I will show you to your chamber, and you can bathe, and dress. Then, together we shall see thngs that you haven't even dreamed of. And then announce our engagement to your family." He took her by the hand, and she looked at the floor. He knew that something was wrong, and he dropped his gaze to match her own. "Is something wrong?", he asked.
"Jareth, I- I don't want to hurt my father. I love him too much. He took care of me. Karen, I don't care about. But please.... don't do anything to hurt him." Her eyes were pleading with his. And it broke his heart. But he knew that Robert could have prevented alot of pain for his beloved. He could have intervened, if he had truly wanted to.
"I promise. I would never be able to hurt someone that you hold so dear. Never." He smiled gently, noting her relief expressed in her eyes. "Come now. No more talk until you have bathed and dressed for today's excursions." She smiled up at him.
"Sounds wonderful.", she added, and took his hand.
He guided her towards a long winding staircase. It twisted and turned, as though they were moving in a circular pattern. She could hear the faint clicking of Jareth's boots on the stone steps, and the long corridor was lit only by a few candles that had been secured with metal holders attached to the stone walls. The corridor of stairs was quite long, and high. She could tell that they were ascending vertically. As though they were ascending towards the heavens. And maybe even higher. Finally they came to a large mahogony door. It was adorned with silver, and had Sarah's name engraved in it, with flourishing engravings etched into it. She ran her fingers over the shiny metal, and her fingers twitched, as they felt a shock form the door. A pale blue light eminated from the door, and enveloped her, then, just as quickly disappeared. She stood there in shock, and before her, the door gently opened, revealing her room. She looked up at Jareth, wondering if what had just happened was "normal" to Underground standards. He loved the shocked expression on her face. He nooded his head reassuringly, and motioned her onwards. She walked into the room, and was exhasperated by the sight of it all.
It was large, and beautifully decorated. Everywhere there were paintings, and statues. Many of them scenes of fantasy, and several others that of angels, and tiny cherubs. There were lovely French doors, adorned with brass metal work, that lead to a balcony. She looked out the window, and found that they were in the castle turret. Up at the very top. The view was wonderful. She could see the whole kingdom, and beyond from her own very balcony
The bed was in the center. It was cherry wood, and had a dark green canopy, and matching curtains, that had been embroidered with tiny pictures of cherubs and angels. It was soft to the touch, and the large green blanket was feathery light. There were several pillows, and a table off to the right side of the bed, that had a small assortment of books, and a basket of sewing paraphernalia. At the far end, almost next to the chamber door, was a book shelf, comprised of cherry wood as well. The assortment and variety of novles was endless from political to fairytales. It had stained glass doors, and a matching writing table off to the side at the other far corner of the room. On the floor was a thick rug. It depicted a scene of a fair maid, sitting under a tree, reading book in her lap. Off in the distance, a knight on a great charger was approaching. It was beautiful. It almost seemed as though the maid was going to breathe. Off in another direction of the room, set almost in the corner next to the balcony, was a somewhat large table, set with a burgundy table cloth, and lace laid over it. There was a large vase filled with a variety of fresh flowers, some that were familiar to Aboveground, and others that were only found in the Underground. Together they seemed to compliment each other in a strange sort of way. There was also a large fireplace behind the table. It loked as though it had recently been cleaned out, for there were no ashes in the heath. And finally, the last piece of major furniture consisted of a large cherry wardorbe, and matching dressing table/vanity combination. Aside from a few lavishly cushioned and upholstered chairs, the room was still fairly bare. However, next to the fireplace, there was another heavy door, though not as ornately decorated as the main chamber door. Sarah walked through it to find herself in another large room. It was the bathroom. It was all stone, as well. No wall coverings, but there were still several paintings, some large, and some small. These pieces of art, were mainly of angels and cherubs. Most of them frolicing about. In the right hand corner of the room ,there was a large bathtub, circular in shape, and set deep into the floor. The interior of the tub appeared ot be tiled in a mosiac manner, and depicted a picture of a mermaid holding out what appeared ot be a conch. Again she appeared so lifelike, that Sarah nearly expected for her to sing out, as though she was going to speak. There was a small counter, made of jade, that was plain, and yet elegant. It had a gold mirror on the top, and a hair dressing set laid out upon the counter. All of the pieces varying in gold and silver. There were also a few hair combs, and other assortments of perfumes and powders. On the other wall was a towel rack, nearly beside the tub. The towels were thick and heavy, and burgundy in color as well. Altogether it was a lovely combination.
Sarah walked out of the bathroom ,and lookd at Jareth, who was standing next to the balcony doors, looking out over his kingdom, with his hands held behind his back. Sarah took the oppourtunity to glance around the room yet again. She could still not get over how beautiful it actually was.
"How do you like your chambers, Sarah?", he asked as he turned around, pleased with himself for satisfying his young bride to be.
"Jareth-it's beautiful. I don't know how I can ever possibly thank you.", she said shaking her head in awe. "It's wondeful.", she said as she lifted her arms, and spun around to look one more time at her new surroundings.
"I am pleased that you like it. These were my mother's chambers, before she died. All the books, furniture, everything was hers. I think that she would be pleased that you like it so much." He looked out the window again, and watched the clouds drift over the Labyrinth. Slowly a few thoughts of his parents drifted back into his memory, but he pushed them away suddenly. "There is something else that I have for you, Sarah. A gift of sorts you may be able to call it, but I think that I will wait for later on." He glanced at the small bedside clock that ticked tocked slowly. It was nearly eleven o'clock, in the morning. Much time had passed, and he had to attend to some other matters. "I will call on you again, shortly, My Dear. Please, do as you wish. Bathe, dress, and make yourself comfortable. I will send a servent up shortly to attend to you." He walked towards the door. "I am pleased that you are happy, Sarah. I assure you that there will be many more amusements for you."
Sarah felt an awkward silence fall between them. But she pushed on forwards, running to his side, and wrapping her arms about his shoulders.
"Thank you.", she whispered. He smiled, and ran his hand through her hair.
"No thank you's between us, Sarah. You have nothing to thank me for. It is our love that you have to thank. Not me." He smiled gently, and bade her farewell, assuring her that he would return shortly.
Once he had left, and the heavy door had shut, Sarah was left alone in the room. Again, she began to examine everything in the room. She felt like aprincess in a fairystory that her parents had read to her when she was a little girl. She walked over to the wardrobe, and opened the heavy doors, peering inside. She found numerous dresses. All beautiful, and elegant. One black one looked ominous. And she didn't care for it much. But there was a beautiful pale yellow one with a matching cloak. It was so pretty. It had a low collar, that came up just above the breasts, and had elegant white lace trimming it. The sleeves were long, and tied at the elbows, then, from there, it was beautiful lace flowing down past where the hands would be. Beneath the yellow material, there was a lovely white silk, with a very delicate floral pattern to it. It could only be seen on the uper bust of the dress, and the front, where the yellow seemed to open up, and reveal the lavish fabric. On the bottom hem, it was stitched with black ribbon, and had tiny gold flowers embroidered on it. Altogether, Sarah decided that it was the most beautiful dress that she had ever seen. But she pressed on, and viewed the other ones. They were lovely too, but nothing compared to that dress. She also found several pairs of shoes, and even a piar of dressing slippers. There were also some dressing gowns. Many of them were made of silk, and in the same victorian style that she was wearing.
She moved to the dressing table. There she found stockings, and other assortments of undergarnments. She also picked up the heavy gold comb that rested on the table before her, and began to run it through her dark hair. She felt just like a princess.
She nearly dropped the comb, when a knock came on the door. And just as quickly, a small goblin hurried into the room, and stood before her. Sarah thought that it was a woman, judging from its' appearance. It came to about her waist, and had a white bonnet on, and its' hair straggled out in every which direction. It had a tattered dress and white apron on. But no shoes. Sarah frowned, wondering what to say. But the tiny creature took the first plunge.
"Name's Maddie, Miss. His Majesty sent me up to be tendin' to your needs. Come on then. Best get your bath ready." The tiny creature ambled into the bathroom, and Sarah could her water start to flow. A moment later, she could see steam coming out of the doorway. Maddie stuck her head out of the door. "Are you comin' or not, Miss? Haven't got all day, we don't." As Sarah approached the door, she could smeel jasmine. It was a beautiful smell. And she found Maddie running baout getting everything ready, for her. Then, Maddie scurried past Sarah. " Go on. Take your bath. I'll be getting you out some clothes. Take your time, Deary. Got all the time in the world, we's do." She ran and started fixing the bed, and straightening out the tablecloth.
"But, you just told me that we don't have all day.", Sarah protested.
"Course we don't, Miss. So you had better hurry up. The King's waitin' for ya downstairs in the throne room." Maddie was now examining the bookshelf.
"There you go again. Contradicting yourslef." Sarah was a little amused, and yet somewhat annoyed at the same time.
"Take your time, Dear. I's don't got alot fo time. But you do. Oh, deary, you got eternity. Me, I just do the laundry, and serve the meals. Mercy, get going dear, so the Majesty don't get restless." She was still looking at the bookshelf, looking for something else to try to tidy up.
Sarah decided that it would just be best to give up, rather than to engage in a battle, with a goblin. So she walked into the bathroom. She closed the door behind her for some added privacy, and looked into the tub. The water was perfectly clear. And she could see the beautiful mosaic on the bottom. She removed her dressing gown, and undergarnments, and eased her body into the water. She felt so relaxed. The aroma seemed to have such a calming effect on her.
Jareth was now sitting in his library attending to his matters. He sat at the large table, with a quill in one hand, and the other resting on a piece of parchment. He was writing an appeal to the Head Council, yet again. If it could not be reconciled at their meeting on Thursday, then, he would marry his beloved within the month.
Dear members of the Head Council,
I am well aware of your leader's plans in which to vanquish all
mortals from the rhelm on the Underground, and am truly dismayed by
your support in which you give him.
I must say that I do have support on my side, and am prepared to fight
for what I desire the most. If matters cannot be resolved by the time
our meeting is adjourned two days from now, I regret to say that I
withdraw any and all support for which I have given throughout the
course of my reign as King.
Furthermore, in the event of war, I am prepared to withdraw my army,
from that of the Fae.
Olaris has brought enough corruption to the Underground, as one such
as myslef can bare. Furthermore, he has brought nothing but horror
and terror to the neighbouring kingdoms, cities, and towns. You all
know that he is a war mongor. There is no reason for you not. I fear
that if he is left to go on, the Underground will face dire
consequences for your mistakes....................
The letter went on and on. Telling everyone about his dismay with the High Council. He only hoped that he could get through to them, so that a foolish law could not be passed. If Olaris was permitted to get away with this, then he could get away with anything. He sent for another servnet, to deliver his second letter to the council. All he could do now, was await for his meeting, two days from now.
Sarah eased herself out of the bath. She felt so revitalized, and refreshed. Even her skin had a healthy glow to it. Her hair was damp from the moisture, but she wrapped the thick burgundy towel around her, and stepped into the bedroom. There was no sign of Maddie. Sarah didn't really care less. But on the bed, there had been an outfit laid out for her. It was a simple white dress, with bell sleeves, and a pir of white slippers, with leather bottoms. She picked the dress up, and held it up to herself. She didn't realize that Jareth was standing behind her, watching her hungrily. His mismatched eyes were fixed on her. He began to approach her, when Maddie shot out from nowhere, and gave away his position.
"Sire! The young miss ain't even dressed. This isn't proper. Now away with you. Go on." Jareth looked at the goblin with anger. He didn't like being told what to do, at any time, or in any place. And he could feel the anger growing within him. Sarah seen it, and rushed towards him. She rested her hand on his shoulder ,and he felt the anger diminish. Her touch had a calming effect on him.
The goblin looked at them ,and then the message dawned on her. She decided that it was time for her to leave, and she scurried out without even saying a word to either of them.
Sarah realized after a moment or two, that she was standing infront of Jareth with only a towel concealing her body. She turned away in embarassment, her cheeks slightly blushing. Jareth turned away as well.
"I will leave you to dress.", he said shyly.
Sarah turned and looked at him, not wanting him to go.
"No. Wait. I can get dressed in the bathroom. It's alright. You don't have to leave. I- I want you to stay. If you don't mind, that is." She looked down at the floor. She felt utterly embarassed. No man had ever seen her in a towel before. And Sarah had never thought herself as to being pretty, or, God forbid, beautiful.
"Are you certain?", he asked, motioning towards the door. " I can leave for a moment." His eyes were watching her intently.
Sarah was heading for the bathroom, already, with the dress in her hands. "No, really. I won't be a minute." She closed the door behind her, and took a deep breath. "What am I doing?", she thought silently to herself. She had fallen for Jareth. And things were quickly progressing. For a brief moment, it entered her mind that she was actually crazy, for wanting to spend an eternity with a man that she hardly even knew. But she quickly dismissed the thought, knowing in her heart, that her and Jareth were meant for one another.
Jareth was also feeling somewhat awkward, especially for barging in on Sarah at such a time. It was considered disrespectful to do so, especially to a lady. But, he had to admit, that his mind was overloaded with all kinds of thoughts, when he seen Sarah standing there, with only a towel covering her body.
Sarah emerged from the bathroom, wearing the simple with gown. It revealed her curves, and contrasted her chocolate hair. She resembled something from Heaven. Something more than a mere angel. Jareth smiled at her, enjoying the view that he got of her body in the revealing dress. It flowed from behind her, and the sleeves came down, just short of her wrists.
"You look beatiful.", he said, while examining her from head to toe as he circled her with his hands behind his back. "Simply beautiful, Sarah."
"Thank you. And you look very distinguished.", she replied, crossing her arms, trying to hide her chest.
"I've planned a short tour of the kingdom, for you, My Lady. Perhaps we shall meet some of your friends along the way. Then afterwards, a small luncheon, and then a family visit. How does that plan appeal to you?" He was plotting something against Karen, and Sarah could tell that what he was going to do, would prove to be rather entertaining.
"It sounds perfectly wonderful.", she said smiling wanly. "And I think that our visit will prove to be most enlightening." She was speaking with a regal tone now, and
Jareth thought it to be somewhat amusing. He knew that she was doing it in an attempt to be funny. And he loved her for it.
He took her by the arm, and escorted her out of the castle, and together they ventured into the Labyrinth.
Sarah was quite content with their plan. But she felt bad for her father. He had never really done anything to hurt her. Infact, he had always been there for her. Especially when her real mother hadn't. And he had given her leway when Karen wouldn't even give her room to breathe. She would make sure that Jareth did nothing to him. She had always loved and respected her father. And always would. And she knew that she would probably never see him again. Once she became a Fae, if she ever came Aboveground for long, Jareth told her that she would die. A fate that Jareth was trying to prevent with all his mind, body and soul.
Sarah looked around the library. Jareth was watching her intently. Her eyes wandered from here to there, taking in all the sights that she hadn't seen last night. Books. Books were everywhere. And papers were scattered about the tables. A large grandfather clock slowly tick tocked as the large pendulum swung back and forth. She moved towards the window, where she was taken away by the sights. The Labyrinth no longer seemed so threatening in the daylight, as it had in the pitch dark. The gardens, the hedges- they were all just so beautiful. Something that had caused her so much grief now overjoyed her heart. It was rather ironic.
Jareth stepped beside her at the window ledge.
"Lady Sarah, may I present to you, your new home and kingdom.", he said gazing out alongside her. His arm moved up to encircle her waist, and he pulled her close to him.
"It is so beautiful.", she whispered. "All I ever remembered was how much pain it casued me. I never realized that it was so beautiful."
She watched strange bird-like creatures soaring high, and then seen goblins scurrying about the labyrinth walls. She knew that they were apparently lost, but still found them to be a rather comical bunch. They were funny little creatures. Loyal to anyone that gave them food and a place to rest for the night. Sarah could see them wandering about the Goblin City. It was a ramshackle place. The small houses were falling apart, and the streets were littered with garbage. There was a large fountian off to one side, where a few were gathered with buckets, retrieving water, and taking it back to their homes. Many of the roof tops were sagging, and beginning to cave in, and the chimmneys were crooked with black smoke bellowing from the fires in the fireplaces.
Jareth brushed her hair to one side, and kissed her ear, moving down to her neck. She smiled, and looked into his eyes.
"All of this is yours now, Sarah.", he said as he ran his gloved fingers through her hair. "All this, and anything else that you want. All you ever have to do is ask it of me, and I will ensure that it is delivered to you."
"This isn't mine, Jareth. This is all ours.", she replied, kissing his hand. " And as for requests, I would love some breakfast. A breakfast befitting a princess.", she said as she smiled gloriously.
"Food and drink are all yours, My Dear. Come, and we shall dine together in my dining hall. And, afterwords, you can bathe, and dress, and we shall pay a rather quick visit to your family" He smiled wanly. "Perhaps, let them in on our plans. Hmmmm?" His blonde hair blew gently, and Sarah nodded in agreement. "And then, perhaps, a tour of your new home?", he added suggestively, his eyebrows slightly raised.
Sarah smiled, and nodded again in agreement. She knew that she was going to enjoy her life in the Labyrinth. Even if it did stretch out into the equivelent of infinity.
Jareth took her by her hand, and rubbed his fingers gently over the ring that he had given her. And he thought about his mother. Sarah had a spirit much like her own. Kind, gentle, and caring were all qualities that they shared when she had lived. And for once, Jareth actually felt the remorse of his parents' deaths. But having Sarah with him, brought so much joy to his heart, that he could barely contain it.
The dining room was spacious. A large mahogony table and chairs occupied much of the space. And a large ornate, wrought iron chandelier filled the ceiling. The candle wax resembled icicles from the dripping wax over the past few years. And the heavy burgundy drapes gave the room a regal feeling to it. On the table a large feast had been prepared. Fruits of every imaginable size, shape ,and color were everywhere displayed on silver trays. There was also tea in a silver teapot, and toast with fresh butter and jam. There was meat, and strange looking eggs that were rather large, and oddly colored with blue and purple speckles. It was just so much for her to take in. Sarah stood at the end of the table in awe of what beheld her eyes. She had never seen such a table set.
Jareth watched the expressions as they drifted over her face. He was pleased that she was finding so many things amusing and odd. It held her interest. Perhaps together they could make eternity seem a little less dull and repeatative. He pulled the large chair out for her, and gestured for her to sit. The velvet seat was soft and inviting beneath her, and the arm had a magnificent curl on the rests. Jareth sat himself down, at the far end of the table, and just as he did, a small goblin scurried out of a doorway, and began pouring each of them something that resembled tea.
Sarah looked into the cup. The liquid had a strong odour in the silver cup, but the aroma was somewhat pleasing. It was something entirely different than tea.
"What is it?", she asked Jareth, as she held the cup up to her face and examined its' contents.
"Alderberry tea.", he said with a chuckle. "Something that you can only get in the Underground. The preferred drink of the Fae. I think that you will like it. If not right away, you will be surprised as to how fast the taste will grow on you." He smiled as he sipped it. "Go on. Try it."
Sarah lifted the cup to her lips, and tasted it. It felt like liquid silver going down her throat. But the taste was somewhat exquisite. It was entirely different from anything that she had ever tasted before. It was sweet, yet not a sweetness that you would taste from sugar. And yet it was tart, and somewhat bitter. But not a distasteful bitterness. I had a taste entirely its' own. And a remarkable one at that. She smiled as she sipped some more of the tea.
"I take it that you like then?", he asked, apparently pleased. "You will find that many of the things here, will be quite different from Aboveground. Especailly the food, and customs. You will like some things, and dispise others. But for the most part, I think that you will be pleased with more than you will be displeased with." He began placing some of the sliced fruits and delicacies on to his plate. With each item he took, he told Sarah what it was, and how to eat it properly.
They made simple conversation, and each time that Sarah smiled, Jareth's heart soared high. Their love for one another was beginning to bloom, even though they were faced with potential tragedy. And together they laughed, and converesed about their future together. He no longer thought of her as a sixteen year old school girl, but as a woman, who knew about life.
She tried many of the things that had dressed the table, and together they found that she liked almost everything. Somethings gave her bodily sensations, while others were bland and tasteless to her. Some made her face wince with the taste, while others made her smile, laugh, and want more.
By now, over an hour had passed, and goblins were taking the food from the table to be thrown away, or for the ones in the throne room to devour. And Jareth and Sarah sat together, still just talking. Jareth was sure that they had made the right decision. To be together forever. No matter what had happened.
"Come, and I will show you to your chamber, and you can bathe, and dress. Then, together we shall see thngs that you haven't even dreamed of. And then announce our engagement to your family." He took her by the hand, and she looked at the floor. He knew that something was wrong, and he dropped his gaze to match her own. "Is something wrong?", he asked.
"Jareth, I- I don't want to hurt my father. I love him too much. He took care of me. Karen, I don't care about. But please.... don't do anything to hurt him." Her eyes were pleading with his. And it broke his heart. But he knew that Robert could have prevented alot of pain for his beloved. He could have intervened, if he had truly wanted to.
"I promise. I would never be able to hurt someone that you hold so dear. Never." He smiled gently, noting her relief expressed in her eyes. "Come now. No more talk until you have bathed and dressed for today's excursions." She smiled up at him.
"Sounds wonderful.", she added, and took his hand.
He guided her towards a long winding staircase. It twisted and turned, as though they were moving in a circular pattern. She could hear the faint clicking of Jareth's boots on the stone steps, and the long corridor was lit only by a few candles that had been secured with metal holders attached to the stone walls. The corridor of stairs was quite long, and high. She could tell that they were ascending vertically. As though they were ascending towards the heavens. And maybe even higher. Finally they came to a large mahogony door. It was adorned with silver, and had Sarah's name engraved in it, with flourishing engravings etched into it. She ran her fingers over the shiny metal, and her fingers twitched, as they felt a shock form the door. A pale blue light eminated from the door, and enveloped her, then, just as quickly disappeared. She stood there in shock, and before her, the door gently opened, revealing her room. She looked up at Jareth, wondering if what had just happened was "normal" to Underground standards. He loved the shocked expression on her face. He nooded his head reassuringly, and motioned her onwards. She walked into the room, and was exhasperated by the sight of it all.
It was large, and beautifully decorated. Everywhere there were paintings, and statues. Many of them scenes of fantasy, and several others that of angels, and tiny cherubs. There were lovely French doors, adorned with brass metal work, that lead to a balcony. She looked out the window, and found that they were in the castle turret. Up at the very top. The view was wonderful. She could see the whole kingdom, and beyond from her own very balcony
The bed was in the center. It was cherry wood, and had a dark green canopy, and matching curtains, that had been embroidered with tiny pictures of cherubs and angels. It was soft to the touch, and the large green blanket was feathery light. There were several pillows, and a table off to the right side of the bed, that had a small assortment of books, and a basket of sewing paraphernalia. At the far end, almost next to the chamber door, was a book shelf, comprised of cherry wood as well. The assortment and variety of novles was endless from political to fairytales. It had stained glass doors, and a matching writing table off to the side at the other far corner of the room. On the floor was a thick rug. It depicted a scene of a fair maid, sitting under a tree, reading book in her lap. Off in the distance, a knight on a great charger was approaching. It was beautiful. It almost seemed as though the maid was going to breathe. Off in another direction of the room, set almost in the corner next to the balcony, was a somewhat large table, set with a burgundy table cloth, and lace laid over it. There was a large vase filled with a variety of fresh flowers, some that were familiar to Aboveground, and others that were only found in the Underground. Together they seemed to compliment each other in a strange sort of way. There was also a large fireplace behind the table. It loked as though it had recently been cleaned out, for there were no ashes in the heath. And finally, the last piece of major furniture consisted of a large cherry wardorbe, and matching dressing table/vanity combination. Aside from a few lavishly cushioned and upholstered chairs, the room was still fairly bare. However, next to the fireplace, there was another heavy door, though not as ornately decorated as the main chamber door. Sarah walked through it to find herself in another large room. It was the bathroom. It was all stone, as well. No wall coverings, but there were still several paintings, some large, and some small. These pieces of art, were mainly of angels and cherubs. Most of them frolicing about. In the right hand corner of the room ,there was a large bathtub, circular in shape, and set deep into the floor. The interior of the tub appeared ot be tiled in a mosiac manner, and depicted a picture of a mermaid holding out what appeared ot be a conch. Again she appeared so lifelike, that Sarah nearly expected for her to sing out, as though she was going to speak. There was a small counter, made of jade, that was plain, and yet elegant. It had a gold mirror on the top, and a hair dressing set laid out upon the counter. All of the pieces varying in gold and silver. There were also a few hair combs, and other assortments of perfumes and powders. On the other wall was a towel rack, nearly beside the tub. The towels were thick and heavy, and burgundy in color as well. Altogether it was a lovely combination.
Sarah walked out of the bathroom ,and lookd at Jareth, who was standing next to the balcony doors, looking out over his kingdom, with his hands held behind his back. Sarah took the oppourtunity to glance around the room yet again. She could still not get over how beautiful it actually was.
"How do you like your chambers, Sarah?", he asked as he turned around, pleased with himself for satisfying his young bride to be.
"Jareth-it's beautiful. I don't know how I can ever possibly thank you.", she said shaking her head in awe. "It's wondeful.", she said as she lifted her arms, and spun around to look one more time at her new surroundings.
"I am pleased that you like it. These were my mother's chambers, before she died. All the books, furniture, everything was hers. I think that she would be pleased that you like it so much." He looked out the window again, and watched the clouds drift over the Labyrinth. Slowly a few thoughts of his parents drifted back into his memory, but he pushed them away suddenly. "There is something else that I have for you, Sarah. A gift of sorts you may be able to call it, but I think that I will wait for later on." He glanced at the small bedside clock that ticked tocked slowly. It was nearly eleven o'clock, in the morning. Much time had passed, and he had to attend to some other matters. "I will call on you again, shortly, My Dear. Please, do as you wish. Bathe, dress, and make yourself comfortable. I will send a servent up shortly to attend to you." He walked towards the door. "I am pleased that you are happy, Sarah. I assure you that there will be many more amusements for you."
Sarah felt an awkward silence fall between them. But she pushed on forwards, running to his side, and wrapping her arms about his shoulders.
"Thank you.", she whispered. He smiled, and ran his hand through her hair.
"No thank you's between us, Sarah. You have nothing to thank me for. It is our love that you have to thank. Not me." He smiled gently, and bade her farewell, assuring her that he would return shortly.
Once he had left, and the heavy door had shut, Sarah was left alone in the room. Again, she began to examine everything in the room. She felt like aprincess in a fairystory that her parents had read to her when she was a little girl. She walked over to the wardrobe, and opened the heavy doors, peering inside. She found numerous dresses. All beautiful, and elegant. One black one looked ominous. And she didn't care for it much. But there was a beautiful pale yellow one with a matching cloak. It was so pretty. It had a low collar, that came up just above the breasts, and had elegant white lace trimming it. The sleeves were long, and tied at the elbows, then, from there, it was beautiful lace flowing down past where the hands would be. Beneath the yellow material, there was a lovely white silk, with a very delicate floral pattern to it. It could only be seen on the uper bust of the dress, and the front, where the yellow seemed to open up, and reveal the lavish fabric. On the bottom hem, it was stitched with black ribbon, and had tiny gold flowers embroidered on it. Altogether, Sarah decided that it was the most beautiful dress that she had ever seen. But she pressed on, and viewed the other ones. They were lovely too, but nothing compared to that dress. She also found several pairs of shoes, and even a piar of dressing slippers. There were also some dressing gowns. Many of them were made of silk, and in the same victorian style that she was wearing.
She moved to the dressing table. There she found stockings, and other assortments of undergarnments. She also picked up the heavy gold comb that rested on the table before her, and began to run it through her dark hair. She felt just like a princess.
She nearly dropped the comb, when a knock came on the door. And just as quickly, a small goblin hurried into the room, and stood before her. Sarah thought that it was a woman, judging from its' appearance. It came to about her waist, and had a white bonnet on, and its' hair straggled out in every which direction. It had a tattered dress and white apron on. But no shoes. Sarah frowned, wondering what to say. But the tiny creature took the first plunge.
"Name's Maddie, Miss. His Majesty sent me up to be tendin' to your needs. Come on then. Best get your bath ready." The tiny creature ambled into the bathroom, and Sarah could her water start to flow. A moment later, she could see steam coming out of the doorway. Maddie stuck her head out of the door. "Are you comin' or not, Miss? Haven't got all day, we don't." As Sarah approached the door, she could smeel jasmine. It was a beautiful smell. And she found Maddie running baout getting everything ready, for her. Then, Maddie scurried past Sarah. " Go on. Take your bath. I'll be getting you out some clothes. Take your time, Deary. Got all the time in the world, we's do." She ran and started fixing the bed, and straightening out the tablecloth.
"But, you just told me that we don't have all day.", Sarah protested.
"Course we don't, Miss. So you had better hurry up. The King's waitin' for ya downstairs in the throne room." Maddie was now examining the bookshelf.
"There you go again. Contradicting yourslef." Sarah was a little amused, and yet somewhat annoyed at the same time.
"Take your time, Dear. I's don't got alot fo time. But you do. Oh, deary, you got eternity. Me, I just do the laundry, and serve the meals. Mercy, get going dear, so the Majesty don't get restless." She was still looking at the bookshelf, looking for something else to try to tidy up.
Sarah decided that it would just be best to give up, rather than to engage in a battle, with a goblin. So she walked into the bathroom. She closed the door behind her for some added privacy, and looked into the tub. The water was perfectly clear. And she could see the beautiful mosaic on the bottom. She removed her dressing gown, and undergarnments, and eased her body into the water. She felt so relaxed. The aroma seemed to have such a calming effect on her.
Jareth was now sitting in his library attending to his matters. He sat at the large table, with a quill in one hand, and the other resting on a piece of parchment. He was writing an appeal to the Head Council, yet again. If it could not be reconciled at their meeting on Thursday, then, he would marry his beloved within the month.
Dear members of the Head Council,
I am well aware of your leader's plans in which to vanquish all
mortals from the rhelm on the Underground, and am truly dismayed by
your support in which you give him.
I must say that I do have support on my side, and am prepared to fight
for what I desire the most. If matters cannot be resolved by the time
our meeting is adjourned two days from now, I regret to say that I
withdraw any and all support for which I have given throughout the
course of my reign as King.
Furthermore, in the event of war, I am prepared to withdraw my army,
from that of the Fae.
Olaris has brought enough corruption to the Underground, as one such
as myslef can bare. Furthermore, he has brought nothing but horror
and terror to the neighbouring kingdoms, cities, and towns. You all
know that he is a war mongor. There is no reason for you not. I fear
that if he is left to go on, the Underground will face dire
consequences for your mistakes....................
The letter went on and on. Telling everyone about his dismay with the High Council. He only hoped that he could get through to them, so that a foolish law could not be passed. If Olaris was permitted to get away with this, then he could get away with anything. He sent for another servnet, to deliver his second letter to the council. All he could do now, was await for his meeting, two days from now.
Sarah eased herself out of the bath. She felt so revitalized, and refreshed. Even her skin had a healthy glow to it. Her hair was damp from the moisture, but she wrapped the thick burgundy towel around her, and stepped into the bedroom. There was no sign of Maddie. Sarah didn't really care less. But on the bed, there had been an outfit laid out for her. It was a simple white dress, with bell sleeves, and a pir of white slippers, with leather bottoms. She picked the dress up, and held it up to herself. She didn't realize that Jareth was standing behind her, watching her hungrily. His mismatched eyes were fixed on her. He began to approach her, when Maddie shot out from nowhere, and gave away his position.
"Sire! The young miss ain't even dressed. This isn't proper. Now away with you. Go on." Jareth looked at the goblin with anger. He didn't like being told what to do, at any time, or in any place. And he could feel the anger growing within him. Sarah seen it, and rushed towards him. She rested her hand on his shoulder ,and he felt the anger diminish. Her touch had a calming effect on him.
The goblin looked at them ,and then the message dawned on her. She decided that it was time for her to leave, and she scurried out without even saying a word to either of them.
Sarah realized after a moment or two, that she was standing infront of Jareth with only a towel concealing her body. She turned away in embarassment, her cheeks slightly blushing. Jareth turned away as well.
"I will leave you to dress.", he said shyly.
Sarah turned and looked at him, not wanting him to go.
"No. Wait. I can get dressed in the bathroom. It's alright. You don't have to leave. I- I want you to stay. If you don't mind, that is." She looked down at the floor. She felt utterly embarassed. No man had ever seen her in a towel before. And Sarah had never thought herself as to being pretty, or, God forbid, beautiful.
"Are you certain?", he asked, motioning towards the door. " I can leave for a moment." His eyes were watching her intently.
Sarah was heading for the bathroom, already, with the dress in her hands. "No, really. I won't be a minute." She closed the door behind her, and took a deep breath. "What am I doing?", she thought silently to herself. She had fallen for Jareth. And things were quickly progressing. For a brief moment, it entered her mind that she was actually crazy, for wanting to spend an eternity with a man that she hardly even knew. But she quickly dismissed the thought, knowing in her heart, that her and Jareth were meant for one another.
Jareth was also feeling somewhat awkward, especially for barging in on Sarah at such a time. It was considered disrespectful to do so, especially to a lady. But, he had to admit, that his mind was overloaded with all kinds of thoughts, when he seen Sarah standing there, with only a towel covering her body.
Sarah emerged from the bathroom, wearing the simple with gown. It revealed her curves, and contrasted her chocolate hair. She resembled something from Heaven. Something more than a mere angel. Jareth smiled at her, enjoying the view that he got of her body in the revealing dress. It flowed from behind her, and the sleeves came down, just short of her wrists.
"You look beatiful.", he said, while examining her from head to toe as he circled her with his hands behind his back. "Simply beautiful, Sarah."
"Thank you. And you look very distinguished.", she replied, crossing her arms, trying to hide her chest.
"I've planned a short tour of the kingdom, for you, My Lady. Perhaps we shall meet some of your friends along the way. Then afterwards, a small luncheon, and then a family visit. How does that plan appeal to you?" He was plotting something against Karen, and Sarah could tell that what he was going to do, would prove to be rather entertaining.
"It sounds perfectly wonderful.", she said smiling wanly. "And I think that our visit will prove to be most enlightening." She was speaking with a regal tone now, and
Jareth thought it to be somewhat amusing. He knew that she was doing it in an attempt to be funny. And he loved her for it.
He took her by the arm, and escorted her out of the castle, and together they ventured into the Labyrinth.