Sarah backed slowly away from the crazed man, her hands raised in defense. She knew it wouldn't help but if he attacked…At that moment a large figured descended from the sky out of nowhere. It set down gracefully in front of Sarah and hissed unhappily at the attacker.

"Jareth…?" Sarah asked, stunned by his presence.

"Sarah," a voice cooed in her head, "the only way for me to help yo-"

He was cut of by a swift kick that sent him sprawling past her.

"Come here…it won't hurt…much," the man said as he advanced on her.

She couldn't think…she couldn't move, she was so terrified she couldn't even scream. She blinked and he was there, standing so close to her. His rank breath fanned over her faced, causing her to wince. The blade whispered up through the air and settled at her slightly exposed collarbone.

"So sweet," he murmured as he leaned forward to nuzzle her neck gently.

Revulsed, she tried to take a step back but his other arm had snaked around her body and held her in place. He led her slowly into the alley behind him, the knife still poised on her delicate flesh.

Jareth cautiously opened his eyes and tried to move his fragile owl body. He winced inwardly. Every fiber of him ached, from the tips of his wings to his clawed feet. Bastard, he thought as he picked himself up.

"SARAH!"

Transforming into his normal visage he jogged to the alley hoping to the heavens he would find her alive.