Disclaimer: Do I look rich? I don't own the Labyrinth or anything to do with it.

So, I take it you guys are ready to see our get back together, huh? Well, not today! Well, sort of, but not. I am devious.Muahaha!

Kaz: Stop babbling.

Fine... :

Theshadowcat: I didn't think it would, but it nearly did kill me. It's hell trying to draw the Escher Room. Gah. Took me three hours to do the whole thing.

Jazzy021: I kinda want to live there to. Damn my imagination. Anyway's, yes they…patch, so to speak.

Relyan: Oh he's here.

LadyLuck321: Diversity is the spice of fan fic. That's what I always say and as for Jareth, he's just being an ass.

Phobos: I'm working on removing Jareth's head from his ass, as for a chapter from his perspective, perhaps I shall do a stand alone on that. I don't really want to break the flow in this where it always follows Sarah with a few minor exceptions. (Also, I've alredy started the last chappie)

Anglewingz202: Dancing is always good. Glad your excited, hope I didn't leave you hanging too long.

Janine: Glad your enjoying it. Aoibh is pronounced 'A-uv' Another Irish name. I couldn't help myself.

RilkaGreenRider: Tut, tut. No skipping class. Stay in school you fool. You keep that up and I'll just never finish… Glad you like anyway. Thanks.

Lyn: I might just do it.

Avalon-blackandgreen: It's kinda the point that you don't see them much. They're dead. I hope I didn't leave you waiting too long.

Shadow: A kingdom meeting might just work. Hmmm…

Kaz: Play date? Do I look three to you?

C.C: Yeah, we're big kids now

Aww, they're just kranky.

Felt-tip-pen 101: Some More? You want some More?... Ok.

Izumi Kimamoto: Keep dancing and reviewing. And monkey hunting.

Elenora Rose: Fascinating. I will.

Moonjava: Thanks.

DreamChild912: tugs on story Hey, that's mine. Oh a sight indeed. Read on.

Kitty: Well, here's what happens next.

Anyana: Well that's what you get. You gotta keep your eye on the prize sister. Keep your finger on the pulse, keep your…. I'm gonna shut up now.

I have one word for you fine folks: BALL!

December 28th

Sarah stretched languorously as she awoke, the early morning sun casting the shadows of the mountains across the house. She shivered as she got out of bed and looked out the window. There was a thick blanketing of snow covering the ground. She slipped her feet into her fuzzy red slippers and dragged herself down stairs. She wandered into the kitchen where a fire sprang up under the kettle which was already filled with water, she noted thankfully. She rummaged through the boxes of food and the cooler bag she had brought from her old apartment, pulling out some cereal and milk. She glanced at her coffee maker which was sitting on the counter top and sighed, grabbing the instant.

I have to get the others help me wire the kitchen at least.

She was going to be wanting a fridge most definitely. She glanced out the back window and saw Aoibh munching on grass beyond the out buildings. After finishing her coffee she ran back upstairs and washed quickly. She got dressed with a quick thought and ran a brush through her long hair, pulling it back into a pony tail. She was dressed in jeans and a sweater, not bothering looking the part in the cold, and grabbed her jacket before heading out.

She trudged up towards the town and headed for the town hall. She pushed the door open and saw that there were ten people sitting at the main table, chatting.

"Sorry, am I late. No one told me when to be here."

Dara appeared beside her and she jumped, scowling at him. "Your not late. We're early. This is advisory board. I think you know Seranus and Gerard."

Seranus winked at her and Gerard, the chief centaur inclined his head slightly. Dara proceeded to go around the table introducing her to the various members, most representing a certain sector of the population.

Suddenly there was a strong wind that blew through the room and Akiko appeared before Sarah.

She smiled slightly. "It's nice to be able to get in. Sarah, how are you doing. I trust progress has been made considering I was able to get here."

She nodded. "If you will excuse me for a moment."

She turned to the collection of people, nine of whom were muttering uncomfortably. "This…" she gestured to Akiko, who looked at the collection of creatures curiously. "..Is what will happen from now on. Magikal creatures will be able to come and go, people will travel into town, do business. They might even want to stay. After a while, I would urge you to consider letting the country become completely accessible. But for now, a passage and the town."

She turned to Akiko. "We have decided that a passage from east to west with access to the town for trade be opened, for now, in return for medical supplies."

Akiko looked at her. "I would find that acceptable. I have many trades people who would be interested in trading produce and other goods with your people. I will send a healer to set up in your town. If you can provide him with some where to set up practice he will receive and administer the supplies sent and train another in apothecary."

Sarah nodded. "I believe that would be appropriate."

She looked to the board who all nodded their accent. "Very well, I hope people from Moranium will feel free to visit the town."

Akiko nodded. Sarah glanced at the clock on the wall and then at the board. "I'm really sorry but I have to leave. Is there anything else pressing to be seen to today."

They all shook their heads. "No. Nothing to do yet anyway."

Sarah smiled and then looked to Akiko. "Would you care to take a walk before we both leave."

Akiko nodded again and the two women left the main hall. Sarah led her down towards the lake and Akiko drew her cloak around her. "It is quite beautiful here."

Sarah nodded. "It's my hope that one day, they'll open the rest of the country. It's quite extraordinary." Akiko looked sideways at Sarah. "You seem to look to the others for a lot of decisions."

"Yes. It's not my country. Not really. I have no right to make decisions and not consult them. I think something happened, though I'm not sure yet, that made them afraid of the rest of the Underground. They're quite an insular group of people, but there is no racial discomfort. They all live together peacefully, they don't want to jeopardise that and I certainly don't have any right to without first asking."

Akiko nodded. "I think I understand. A long time ago, before I was in power in Moranium, there was a war. The then King of Moranium was power hungry and would do anything to expand his kingdom. He slaughtered many of Val Alorn's inhabitants, burnt great tracts of forest. Not many here would really remember it, but I'm sure they have been brought up to fear what is beyond the forest."

Sarah stared at her. "That's terrible. Do you know the tall brown haired man that was standing in the corner?"

She nodded. "That was Dara. He's the personification of the forest. He is the forest. No wonder he wouldn't let anyone in."

Akiko raised her brows. "The forest can project another image of itself? Fascinating."

Sarah grinned. "Well, if you're really nice, I'll get him to give you an interview."

Akiko smiled a little at her. "Will I see you tonight at the ball?"

"Wouldn't miss it. Speaking of, I have to go soon. I promised Etáin to help her with the finishing touches."

"Well then, it's been a pleasure doing business with you. Perhaps one day, you may give me a more extensive tour."

Sarah nodded. "One day perhaps."

Akiko disappeared in gust of wind and Sarah followed suit in fire.


When Sarah arrived in the drive way she quickly walked up to the door but paused when she spied a black cat stretched out against the wall in the winter sun. It cracked a green eye at her any yawned, stretching its back.

"Getting away from it all?" she asked the cat which proceeded changed into Etáin who continued to stretch and yawn.

"I'm just so tired though. It's so much work putting on this damn ball and by this point everyone's screaming at you."

Sarah smiled at her friend and linked her arm in hers. "Never fear, I'll help you. What needs doing?" Etáin smiled back at her. "How's everything sound?"

"Like too much. What else?"

They entered the entrance hall and Cyros and Nadír looked up from reception and waved. "Sarah. How's the new kingdom?"

"Internal. Damn closed up bunch they are."

She walked over and kissed both the men on the cheek. "Oh, Cyros. My people are in need of medicine, badly."

He flashed his perfect smile at her. "Need some sand?"

"Exactly. I can give you fruit and grain?"

"We get a lot of that from the neighbouring kingdom. What else have you got?"

"Really good beer."

"See, now some of that I could use. How about I come and taste it next week and we can negotiate." "It's a date. Well, gotta go." She said as she was dragged off by Etáin.

She deposited Sarah in the ball room where Ionnina was sitting on the floor surrounded by sheet music. She glanced up. "Oh Sarah, thank the gods, I am terrible at music. Help!"

Sarah smiled and sat down across from her and grabbed the pile of music that she was holding. "Nice to see you too. What happened? I left these in perfect order."

"Nadír went a bit crazy at Lorkán for causing a stir and they got all mixed up."

"Ok, well, what's organised."

"Um, nothing. Everything's unorganised."

Sarah sighed and began to sort the music while Ionnina recalled for her the latest scandal of the castle. After awhile Sarah looked over her pile of music. "So… um… what's Jareth been doing?"

Ionnina rolled her eyes. "Trying to fight off Cassandra mostly. Stupid girl won't get the point and he won't just straighten up and tell her to fuck off."

Sarah giggled. "Language Ionnina. I don't know what's wrong with him. And her? She's such a child." "I know. Well, who knows what goes on in the minds of men. I doubt even men."

Sarah laughed and then fell silent. "I really miss him Ionnina. I mean really, really."

Ionnina reached over and squeezed her hand. "I know Hunny. It'll all work out, you'll see. He'll come to his senses. Cyros has already given him a verbal beating about the whole incident."

"Ha, he deserves it."

"Yeah, I suppose you miss his stellar company, hmm?"

Sarah smiled wickedly. "Well, lets just say I know for a fact that he doesn't use socks."

Ionnina burst out laughing. "Well there goes the Reebok theory."

"Yup."

Sarah stood and shook out her legs, numb from sitting cross legged so long, and looked at her watch. "Ohh, lunch time. You coming?"

Ionnina nodded and, organising a stack of papers, rose to join her friend. The two women walked into the kitchen to be confronted by a small army. Sarah craned her neck over the mass of cooks, all shouting manically at each other.

She glanced at Ionnina. "Well, if Andre's in here, I can see him and I don't think we're going to get near food until tonight. Come on." She grabbed Ionnina's arm and began to drag her out the door.

The other woman dug her heels in. "But, it all smells so good. I really feel like a sandwich."

Sarah laughed. "I suppose I should let you two get some food."

Ionnina looked puzzled. "We two…? Oh!"

Sarah laughed at her again. "You actually forgot you're pregnant?"

Ionnina smirked. "It's just there's been so much going on. Well, I haven't been drinking but I can't help smoking."

Sarah grimaced. "Ohh, do not quit your day job. Comedienne doesn't suit you."

"Ha, like you can talk."

Sarah waved goodbye to her as she headed for the gardens. Sarah walked through the gardens and noticed that they seemed to have been magikally restored for the nights festivities. She wandered into the rose garden and bent over to smell a white rose. "Painting the roses red…" She hummed to herself as she went. Moving through out the gardens and began to walk towards the woods beyond. She soon found herself at the edge of the woods and she sat down against the tree again, looking out over the fields.

"So, you return. It's a relaxing spot."

Sarah jumped and saw Nadír walking towards her from the field.

She smiled at him as he took his place sitting on the tree stump. "The day is come when I again repose, Here, under this dark sycamore… Yes, it is very lovely here. I'm guessing you like it too?"

He nodded, his eyes fixed on the castle in the distance.

"Etáin transforms and hides away somewhere, I come out here. It's hard for people to find you."

"Unless you've got a crystal in your pocket."

He laughed. "Yeah, except for that. Have you seen him since before the court?"

She shook her head. "I don't even know if he knows I'm here."

Nadír shrugged. "He knows your supposed to be here. He's probably hiding from Cassandra somewhere. Insufferable girl."

Sarah grinned. "Does she have any friends?"

"Only the ones that benefit from her friendship."

The pair sat in a friendly silence for sometime before Nadír broke the silence. "So, how is your new kingdom?"

Sarah sighed. "Damaged goods. It's beautiful and the people are kind, unaffected by the outside world, but that's its flaw. I'm afraid outside influences will damage their way of life but at the same time, they can just hide from the world. Some will be hostile to outsiders, some may be badly effected by the new ideas and people. It's impossible to predict and I'm afraid I'm going to fuck up."

Nadír sat forward. "From what I hear, your starting them off slowly. You're right, they cant stay holed up forever. It's the better thing to do. And hey, you'll prevent inbreeding."

Sarah pulled a face. "Eww, it wasn't that bad yet." Nadír laughed and they lapsed back into silence. After awhile the pair walked back to the castle to be faced with…

"Wow."

"Yes, really wow."

Etáin came rushing around the side of the kitchen, dodging a chef who was brandishing a meat cleaver at another. "There you two are. I need help with this!" She waved her arms wildly.

"I can see that. Where'd the ten foot cake come from Etáin?"

She rolled her eyes. "Ionnina's all hormonal and a spell went a little wrong. Instead of doubling the size of the cake she quadrupled it."

"It's NOT my fault!"

Her shout was heard from somewhere out of sight and Sarah but her lip in an attempt not to laugh. "What do you need us to do?"

Etáin looked down her list and spoke distractedly. "Just, try to make it smaller. Don't eat it, don't fuck up."

Nadír smirked at Sarah. "No pressure then."

"None at all. Promise me you wont let her do this next year?"

"I promise!" He said earnestly and they got to work.


Many hours of work later Sarah grabbed Etáin by her collar and dragged her towards the stairs.

"Come on. There is nothing else you can do here unless you want to cook for over four hundred people. We've got to get ready."

"It can't be that hard to do all that cooking."

"Come. On." Sarah hauled her friend up the back stairs and they made their way to Ionnina's room. Ionnina was already there, along with Persephone, Eurydice, Fiona and Yukio, who was looking a bit nervous.

She smiled shyly at Sarah when she entered. "Hi Sarah. Sorry about my dad."

Sarah grinned at the girl. "No problem. Drop in to see me any time. I guess he doesn't know your in here with us rebel girls."

The other women and Eurydice placed a hand on Yukio's shoulder. "Yes, I'm sure we're all a terrible influence on your young mind. Especially Sarah and Persephone here."

Sarah laughed and Persephone blushed. "Yeah, one former mortal and one eloper."

Persephone blushed again and they all laughed.

She brushed her long dark hair out of her face. "I guess news really does travel fast here."

Sarah examined some of the jewellery that had been laid out. "When you've got that…" She gestured to Ionnina "Listening on every word, it's bound to move fast."

Ionnina put on a look of mock out rage. "Do you dare call me a gossip… I see you got my note then." Sarah smirked. "See? Impossible. So, what's everybody wearing?"

There was jewellery laid on the bed for the taking, Fiona was doing Yukio's hair and everybody else was comparing outfits and making sure there were no overlaps. It rather reminded Sarah of a girls dressing room before a show. Everybody was rushing around madly, but there was still time for exited chatter between friends and the feeling of anticipation was huge.

There were already people arriving, according to Nadír, who had stuck his head in to inform Etáin before getting a shoe thrown at him.

Sarah was still dressed in jeans and a baggy t-shirt when she had finished her hair and make-up. Her eyes were dark and smoky against her pale skin and her lips a glossy dark red. Her hair was softly curled, not as absolutely massive as the 'bubble ball' but it still had that bounce, with black crystals laced through it.

Etáin wandered over to her. She was dressed in sweats and a tank top and still managed to look ravishing. Her hair was in an elegant knot behind her head with soft curls framing her face. Her make-up was light, with silver and gold highlights around her eyes and a bronze tint to her lips.

"Wow Sarah. You look… hot."

Sarah looked at Etáin's reflection in front of her. "You don't look so shabby yourself."

"Jareth won't be able to keep his eyes or his hands off you."

Sarah glanced over her shoulder. "I don't know about that. You know what he said."

Etáin shook her head. "You know he was just talking shit. Typical man. Never speaks his feelings. Took me years to beat it out of Nadír really. I mean before the whole fly debacle. He'll come to his senses. You'll see."

Ionnina looked up from where she was adjusting her dress. "You guys talking about Jareth?"

They both nodded.

She shook out her long black hair. " Just you wait Sarah. Sock boy wont know what hit him once he sees you, I'm sure."

There was a murmur of agreement from around the wall and Sarah shook her head, smiling. "Ok, away from my lack of love life. Persephone, I never would have figured you and Loki. Don't the constant pranks drive you insane?"

The rest of the room looked at the young woman who fingered her plait nervously. "He's really very sweet. You know, ever since Hades was killed, I didn't laugh much. He was the first one that made me. And he has a serious side too."

All the women smiled. "I'm sure he does. And if he makes you happy, who are we to judge?" said Eurydice.

They all nodded again. "Yeah, I married an oaf who lives in a sandcastle."

"My man hates me."

"Mine cant stand children."

Yukio sighed. "I wish I had a boy friend."

They all looked at her. "No you don't." was said in unison.

Sarah giggled. "Trust us, it's more trouble than it's worth."

Fiona smiled wickedly. "Ahh, but it has it's perks."

Etáin raised her eyebrow. "Just who have you been getting perks from?"

Fiona blushed. "No one."

"Have you been hiding in broom closets with my son again. Don't think I don't notice you two. You've been all over each other for years."

There was an abrupt silence and Fiona looked like a deer caught in the head lights before Etáin smiled and Ionnina burst out laughing. "Oh, you should see your face. We've known for years Hunny."

Etáin laughed as well. "Yes. Did you actually think we'd mind? Really, you two know us better than that."

Sarah smiled at the three. It was kind of like finding a new family.

She stood. "Ok, time to see the dresses."

Ionnina was already changed. Her white dress looked fabulous against her dark skin and hair. The one strap swept over her shoulder and the low just back brushed the base of her spine.

Etáin waved her hand and was instantly changed into a deep red strapless gown. The dress fitted to the wait, began to flare out and swept the floor, where Sarah saw gold sandals peeking out.

Etáin looked at her friend expectantly. "Well?" she said impatiently.

Sarah stuck her tongue out and waved her hand. The black satin dress clung to her every curve right to the floor. Both the neck line and the back were draped and the front stopped between her breasts.

Etáin grinned. "Hmm, defying gravity much?"

Sarah laughed. "Your all talk. I can see that dress isn't staying up on it's own."

Etáin grinned back and threw a mask in her direction. "This really does defy gravity. No strings, no sticks, just all night identity protection."

Sarah studied the black mask in her hands. It was plain back with swirling silver patterns painted on to the silk surface, black jewels bordering the outline and serving as highlights to the design.

"This will hardly hide my identity." She held up the mask.

Etáin shrugged. "Maybe not, but a masque is a masque. It must be worn."

She placed a similar red mask on her own face and smiled. "You can take it off after a while. Just wait for the first hour or so."

She looked over to Yukio, who was sitting at the vanity. "What time is it?"

"Nearly nine."

"That means show time ladies. Ready to wow the men folk?"

They all laughed and began to filter out of the room.

Sarah lingered for a moment. Ionnina looked at her kindly. "Sarah, don't worry. If he doesn't come crawling back, he's not worth another thought."

"Many things aren't worth any thought, but mostly, I cant help it. I love him."

"I know, but we cant always have what we want. Or what we deserve."

Sarah looked at her sadly. "You think he meant what he said, don't you?"

Ionnina clasped her hand in hers. "I know we've all been hoping, but I've known Jareth for many years and if only one thing can be said for him…"

"It's that he doesn't lie." Sarah finished for her. Ionnina nodded and squeezed her hand gently.

She glanced up at the dark woman. "I know you were just trying to make me feel better before, but don't bother next time. I prefer honesty."

Ionnina nodded. "Come on."

The pair descended the main staircase into the throng of people who were pouring into the hall and onwards into the ball room. At the bottom of the stairs Ionnina left Sarah to find her husband and she was alone for a moment until a voice caught her attention. She turned to see Maui and Taranga waving at her from across the entrance hall. She smiled and made her way through the crowd. Taranga pulled her into an embrace and kissed her cheek.

"You look ravishing my dear." Sarah blushed and Maui murmured something in agreement.

Taranga scanned the crowd. "Hmm, a fairly good crowd I suppose. A few people that really annoy me, but I suppose I must endure."

Maui gave a long suffering sigh. "Yes, mother. You must."

"Don't you sigh at me young man. You know how I cannot stand ignorance of any variety, but this event always attracts it in droves. People who think they knew what happened…"

Taranga stopped her rant. "Anyway, Sarah my dear. Your kingdom bears the most delicious summer fruits. Perhaps we can broker a trade agreement of some variety?"

Sarah smiled at the flighty woman. "If you don't mind Taranga, I'd like to leave business for another evening."

She shook her wild head of hair. "No, no. Of course not. I understand you've been very busy."

Sarah smiled graciously and took Maui's arm, grateful for the reprieve. Sarah left the mother and son arguing over whether the elderly queen should drink or not and began to navigate the huge ball room. There were already a few hundred people milling about the room yet there still seemed to be plenty of space to fill, though it did not seem empty. Sarah froze as she spotted Jareth standing, as was customary, by the drinks table. There was something pink hanging off him, which she could only assume was Cassandra because feathers were blocking any recognisable features. He looked bored, irritated, murderous and a host of other emotions that bubbled behind his black mask. He was dressed mostly in black, once again, with bits of royal blue thrown in.

There was a group of Cassandra's twittering groupies surrounding them and Sarah took great pleasure in the thought that Jareth might have murdered all of them by midnight.

Not going to shirk alcohol for the night just because her ex liked to haunt the table, Sarah sashayed her way up, making sure her dress turned any nearby male heads.

She was pleased when indeed, quite a few turned in her direction, including the one she was consciously not looking at. A young fae with a handsome face and dark features approached her and handed her a glass of wine. She accepted and, watching Jareth out of the corner of her eye, flashed him her most winning smile.

"I don't believe I've had the pleasure." The mans low voice brought her attention back to him.

She held out her hand. "Sarah Williams of Val Alorn."

The man brought her hand to his lips. "King Damien of West Way."

Sarah smiled again. "May I be so bold as to claim the first dance with you?"

Sarah nodded. "You may."

"That is very gracious of you my lady. Would you…Oh, excuse me for just a moment."

A tall, stern looking women was gesturing for Damien and he left her with her wine.

She shivered suddenly, when a familiar voice sounded beside her ear. "I see you're already moving on from Lorkán. You do move quickly."

His voice was spiteful, but Sarah could hear something else behind that. She turned to face him and her brown eyes locked with his mismatched ones. "As always Jareth, you jump to conclusions far before you have all the facts. King Damien simply asked for a dance. I accepted."

He was silent and they simply stared at each other until a noise was heard behind him. "Oh.." the voice was annoyed and disgusted. "You're back again. I wish you'd stop trying."

Cassandra's fan club cackled irritatingly and Sarah could see Jareth's eye twitch. He didn't break eye contact with her, but he spoke to Cassandra.

"Princess, I have already told you that I do not wish to be with you. Please leave me alone."

Cassandra laughed shrilly. "Jareth, I know your only annoyed because of her."

He leant forward and spoke quietly to Sarah. "Just because I don't want to be with her doesn't mean my feelings have changed. Don't get your hopes up."

Sarah showed no emotion but her soul was crying. She looked into his cold eyes. "Still as cruel as ever I see." She turned and left him with the Cassandra fan club closing in on him.

She danced the first two dances with Damien who seemed like a perfectly nice man, but unfortunately Sarah's thoughts were far from the dance floor. She danced a few more with Maui, Nadír and Cyros and declined the offer to dance with several other young fae unfamiliar to her. She stood to one side with a glass of wine, observing the ball with an almost perfect air of nonchalance.

Cyros wandered up to her. "You are the bell of the ball, why are you playing wall flower? I've spoken to many men who are fighting for the chance to get to dance with you."

She glanced sideways at him. "You'll forgive me Cyros, but I'm not really in the dancing mood tonight. I've done my share."

He rolled his eyes at her. "If it's about that stupid friend of mine, I can beat him up for you if you want." Sarah laughed. "No, but thank you. Something about being told by the love of your life that he hates you, again, kinda puts a dampener on the evening."

He shook his head. "You two are both too stubborn for your own good. If you just told him what…" "Not going to happen."

"You see? And why not exactly?"

"Because I'm terrified of rejection."

"…oh. Well that was honest."

"As I've said before, it's the best policy."

"And driving back to my first point, not everything is as it appears. Especially not with Jareth."

"You think he was lying?"

"…"

"Thought so."

"You two are impossible!"

Cyros left her alone again and she sighed. She'd apologise in the morning but she really wasn't in the mood.

Etáin's voice began to echo over the crowd and it began to hush. "Ahh yes. Time for most peoples favourite part of the evening. The compulsory dance."

There was a groan and Sarah listened in trepidation.

"Well it's a tradition. For the next three songs if there is someone not dancing they will get a lot of cold water dumped on them, it's a promise. And don't forget to change partners every half a minuet or so."

A musical introduction started and everyone began to move out on to the floor. An tall man with red hair asked Sarah for the dance and she accepted, knowing Etáin well enough that she'd hold true to the cold water promise.

During the first song she danced with three unfamiliar faces who didn't talk much and Orpheus who smiled charmingly as they moved over the floor.

"Congratulations on your court victory."

"Thank you. I was grateful you attended."

"It was a pleasure and some interesting entertainment. Nothing much happens down here anymore."

"Not that that's a bad thing."

"Indeed."

The first song ended and Orpheus went in search of his wife. When the next song began she danced with Loki who regaled her with a tale of his marriage day and the problems they encountered. She then found herself dancing with another unknown mask before being swept up into different arms.

"I knew you'd be back in my arms eventually."

Sarah glared up at Lorkán. "Ok, I'm going to say this as calmly as possible, as long as you make sure that hand doesn't go any lower and you'll make it through the next minute unharmed."

Lorkán's hand roamed down her back and began to move further south when he yelped as Sarah drove her stiletto into his foot.

"Keep those in check or so help me.."

"Ohh, I'm so scared."

Sarah's eyes narrowed dangerously. "You should be."

"What? Are you going to singe me?"

She tilted her head slightly. "Well there's that, and them." She nodded to over his shoulder where Cyros and Nadír were dancing with two random women, and sending deathly looks in his direction.

"Well, my job was done anyway, and done well. Cassandra was happy."

"Well why don't you go and force yourself on her then."

"She's not interested in anyone but that goblin fool."

Sarah laughed. "Oh my god. You like Cassandra and that's why you were so happy to help her. But breaking me and Jareth up only ruined your chances you idiot."

His grip on her hand and waist tightened painfully. "Be careful what you say my lady." He hissed.

The song ended but Lorkán didn't release her.

She glared at him as he kept his tight hold on her. "You better let go of me…"

He leaned in and whispered in her ear. "Or what?" Another song began and he yelled, jumping back and glaring at her hand which held a flame which she quickly extinguished.

"Or I'll burn you."

He started towards her but stopped himself. "This is not over."

Sarah felt someone else take her hand and she closed her eyes, moving with her new partner and listening to the music.

Some enchanted evening

You may see a stranger,

You may see a stranger, across a crowded room.

And somehow you know, you know even then

That somewhere you'll see her again and again.

Her eyes snapped open and she found herself staring into mismatched ones. She could see the storm behind the emotional mask he always donned in public. His grip on her tightened when she opened her eyes.

"Jareth."

"Sarah."

"I thought your feelings hadn't changed?"

"We're dancing, not having sex." He replied scornfully.

She closed her eyes again. "Don't mock me Jareth. Not tonight. Not now."

"Why ever not?"

"Just let me listen to the damn song. It brings back a happy memory."

Some enchanted evening

Someone maybe laughing

You may hear her laughing across a crowded room

And night after night, as strange as it seems

The sound of her laughter will sing in your dreams

He looked at her. "Why ever is that? Our time meant nothing to you."

Sarah laughed humourlessly. "Don't presume to know my thoughts unless I show them to you. Everything you have said to me in the last few days just goes to prove that you do not know me as well as either of us thought."

He dipped her suddenly, holding her there for a moment. "So you aren't as cruel as all that then?" he asked coldly.

"You would make me out to be a monster."

He pulled her up again and pulled her against him roughly. "It's you who thought I was the monster once. I'm just returning the favour."

Who can explain it?

Who can tell you why?

Fools give you reasons

Wise men never try

Sarah sighed in exasperation. "I never thought you were a monster Jareth."

He swung her around gracefully. "Are you quite sure about that?"

"Quite."

"And there I thought you were out to wound a monster."

Some enchanted evening,

When you find your true love,

When you feel her call you, across a crowded room

Her eyes flashed angrily. "Must you always jump to conclusions? Do you not even want to know what really happened?"

"I saw everything. I don't need to be told."

"That's just it. You missed the beginning and the end. Kind of important to the plot."

"There didn't seem to be much interpretation in the matter."

Sarah growled impatiently. "Will you shut up and listen to me for a moment?"

He said nothing, just looked at her as they moved across the floor.

"Thank you. If you had just talked to me, or Cyros or anyone, they would have told you that I wasn't exactly a willing participant in those particular activities. Lorkán's magik is gravity and he managed to bind mine somehow…" She stopped, shuddering slightly at the memory.

Then fly to her side, and make her your own.

Or all through your life you may dream all alone

An unidentifiable emotion flashed across Jareth's face. "Are you saying…"

"Yes Jareth, that is exactly what I am saying."

"But you looked like you were making no objections."

"What am I just after explaining to you? Don't be a fool Jareth. That's what he wanted you to think."

"I don't believe you."

Sarah sighed and looked at him sadly. "Well, I guess that's that then." She tried to pull away but he stopped her.

Once you have found her

Never let her go

Never let her go

She glanced up at him. "Jareth?"

"I…"

Sarah was pushed out of the way by the pink feather duster. "Oh, you poor thing, having to dance with that."

Sarah stumbled as she fell back a bit. She desperately wanted to know what Jareth was going to say but knew that she wasn't going to get anywhere near her any time soon. She grabbed another glass of wine and headed out the large French door which led into the gardens. She moved further away from the noise of the ball and into the gardens. She had found a lot of peace here in the past few weeks but somehow the quiet solitude of the walled gardens gave her little comfort this night. Even in the revealing dress she was wearing, Sarah didn't feel the cold, probably due to a spell, because she had not called upon her fire to warm her. She removed her mask and sat down on a stone bench.

The stone bench, in fact.

The same one she'd had several important and revealing conversations on. It had never occurred to her that she'd kept coming back to this spot, in the rose garden, roses of red, white, yellow, pink, orange. They were all restored since the storm. She sipped her wine and looked up at the sky. It was a clear night and the stars twinkled down at her. She would miss the stars. She knew she could return to Aboveground to look at them when she wished but, just knowing that they weren't outside her window made her sad. They were a permanent in her life until now. Your life may be torn asunder and all you love could disappear but there were some constants. The sun rose in the morning, it was replaced by the moon at night and too keep it company were the stars. Millions of far off flames. Even when she was a child, Sarah liked to think that, if you just stayed quiet long enough, you could hear them talking. To who, she could never decide. She stayed there for a very long time, not really paying attention to much, just loosing herself in the sky.

A noise brought her quickly back to earth and she looked away from the sky above to see a shadow of a person walk slowly into the garden. She knew who it was. Jareth approached her slowly. She couldn't see his face in the dark, but a shiver ran up and down her spine as he came closer.

She looked up at him. He had also removed his mask and she raised an eyebrow, her face a carefully schooled neutral.

"What are you doing here?"

He shrugged elegantly. "I have no idea."

"That seems to run in your theme lately. Not knowing anything."

He frowned at her. "Don't mock me Sarah."

"Why ever not?"

He growled and stalked up to her. He backed her against a wall, pinning her there. "Because, you have no right."

"Oh, and you do?"

"I have never betrayed another. Never lied about the most sacred of things. You are not capable of love."

"How fucking dare you." She raised a hand to slap him but he caught her wrist in his gloved grasp. "How dare I?" He hissed. "After what you did."

Sarah wrenched her arm from his grip. "Are you being obtuse on purpose or is it a flaw you've had from birth? I explained what happened that night. I can assure you that I neither started nor enjoyed the activities then."

"Is that so? Why do I think you're lying?" He moved away from her, beginning to walk back to the ball. "Jareth." She called out. He paused but did not turn.

"Is it true you never lie? It's what I've been told."

He looked back at her. "I rarely lie. No one can never lie."

"Why do you think I lied to you?"

"Because that's what mortal whores do."

Sarah sucked in a breath. She had never thought he would ever go that far when speaking to her, whether she had cheated or not. She fought back angry tears and glared at him.

"I hate you! I hate you for putting me through this."

He spun around and stormed back to her, backing her up against the wall again. "I hate you also."

His voice was low and dangerous.

She looked up at him defiantly. "Well I…"

She was cut off suddenly as his lips descended on hers. His mouth plundered hers harshly, almost violently and she fought back with the same furious passion. He pushed her back against the wall and she felt his erection pressing into her stomach. His mouth moved down her neck and she cried out as he bit down painfully.

He pulled back for a breathless moment. "Do you still hate me?"

"I loath you."

She grabbed his head and pulled him back down for another harsh kiss. His hands roamed over her body, squeezing her breasts through the thin fabric. Her hands were tangled painfully in his hair but neither cared. Their tongues fought as they kissed and his hands grasped her hips bruisingly as he hoisted her up. She wrapped her legs around his waist so that she was held between the wall and Jareth. She ground her hips against him and he growled into her mouth. She felt him hike up her skirt and he reached underneath. She cried out, muffled by his kiss, as he pushed aside the fabric of her underwear and drove into her. They both paused for a moment.

She looked at him. "Do you still hate me?"

"I despise you."

He began to slam into her. They both cried out with each thrust, lost in excruciating pleasure. She was wrapped around him, legs, arms, everything, but one hand found its way down to entwine itself in his sweaty palm and suddenly, both their heads were filled with blinding lights. He continued to pound into her as they entered each others minds.

He felt her pleasure from his ministrations, the pain of the rock wall against her back, the pain of every word he's said to her, the fear when Lorkán pinned her down, her love for him.

In turn Sarah felt his feelings and emotions; his pleasure at being inside her, the pain of her clenched fist pulling at his hair, his disgust at Cassandra's advances, his pain when he saw Sarah and Lorkán, his heart break when he told her that he didn't love her.

He pulled his hand away from hers and they both stopped moving. "Do you still hate me?" He asked, opening his eyes.

Sarah's tears were falling thick and fast. "No." She began to move against him. "No… I love you, so desperately."

He matched her movements and soon they were both crying out as they came. When he released her, they fell to their knees against the wall.

She pressed her forehead to his. "Do you still despise me?"

He said nothing, then pulled away. As he got up he pulled her with him, waving his hand as he did. She was surprised when she felt suddenly fresh again, no more tears in her dress, her hair and make up as well done as they had been hours ago. Silently, Jareth turned to leave, then turned back to her. He brushed her face softly with the back of his hand and she closed her eyes at the tender contact. When she opened them again, he was gone. She let a few more tears drip down her chin as she walked back towards the castle.

When she got there she was looking fresh again, though…

"Gee Sarah, you're walking a little stiff. Are you ok?"

"Yes Etáin, I'm just fine."

"We're you talking to Jareth. You have that 'I've just had a big fight with my ex' look."

"Yeah, I was talking to him . I wouldn't have called it a fight per say, more a war."

Etáin's face lit up in realisation. "Oh Cerci, why didn't I see it before. You fu..murmph."

Sarah clamped her hand on her friends mouth and dragged her out a nearby door. "Keep it down, would you?"

She removed her hand from the excited woman's mouth and was bombarded with questions. "Did you to make up? Was he good? Where did you do it? I thought he said he hated you? What do you think Cassandra will say?"

Sarah sighed. "No. Yes. Against the wall in the rose garden. I don't know anymore and I have no clue, probably throw a hissy fit. In that order."

Etáin grinned. "Up against a garden wall, no wonder your walking stiff."

Sarah rolled her eyes at the older woman but said nothing.

"So, if you didn't make up, how did you end up having sex?"

"It was the 'I'm angry but aroused' kind of violent sex, you know?"

Etáin smiled nostalgically. "Yeah. But I'll tell you, that's a good sign. What did he say after wards?" "Nothing. He just left."

"Less good sign."

"Gee, thanks."

"What's going on? Who had sex now?" Ionnina stuck her head around a corner.

"Sarah had rough argument sex with Jareth up against a wall in the garden. Ouch, Sarah, what was that for?"

Ionnina's eyebrows shot up. "Seriously? What did he say?"

"He didn't say anything. Just left. Ow! Sarah!"

"Hmm, that's interesting."

"Well, as much as I'd love to stand around discussing my cursed love life…"

"But blessed sex life. Man, I can't even remember the last time I had spontaneous sex."

"Yeah, whatever. You have to be hostess-ing."

The three entered the ball room again and the two women that flanked Sarah suddenly grimace. "Look out Sarah, here comes…"

"My Lady Sarah. I have never seen a beauty such as yours for an age. I am King Louis of the Ice Wastes. Don't let the name fool you, I rule over no waste lands. A beautiful country I assure you. But I digress. I approached you, I confess, to see if you would perhaps give the pleasure of a courtship with you. For I know you are new to our world and could use a guide and a husband to help you rule such a magnificent country like Val Alorn. You are indeed fortune us. To have been given such a land and, I flatter myself, to have been approached by a generous person such as myself who would be willing to marry you."

Sarah stared at the man. She sent a guarded thought to her companions. I can't believe it. He talks more than Cassandra. Does he do this often?

Ionnina giggled. Not as often as he used to. He proposed to both me and Etáin at one stage.

Sarah looked at the man and smiled kindly. "I thank you very much."

He bowed his head slightly, a sickly benevolent smile on his face.

"I am… flattered by your offer but I'm afraid that I must decline."

"But… surely you are aware of the sensibility of my offer, your situation within our society… I am a King. You cannot reject me."

"Yes well,.." Sarah looked about her. "You see. I'm a lesbian. I'm attracted to women. In fact I've fallen madly in love with Ionnina here, who's pregnant with her husbands child so you can see the predicament I'm in already."

Ionnina schooled her expression in to that of seriousness and grabbed Sarah's hand. "Yes. In fact we're thinking of moving Aboveground. Perhaps London, where we will open a Gay and Lesbian interest book store and we can raise my child without prejudice."

Louis looked shocked. "Yes… well… um… oh, is that person calling me?" He hurried off in the direction of the imaginary person.

When he was out of ear shot, the three burst out laughing. "Sarah, if you keep that up, you're never going to make any trade agreements." Choked out Etáin.

Suddenly, they were once again accosted.

"You." The voice screeched.

They heaved a collective sigh and looked at Cassandra, whose feathers seemed to be slightly ruffled. (A/N: Sorry 'bout the pun. Couldn't help myself.) Sarah stepped back from the woman who was flailing her arms wildly. "Cassandra. What can I do for you this fine evening?"

"Jareth."

"What about him?"

"Where is he? I saw you two dancing. I know you've done something with him. I want you to tell me where he is. Now!"

"There is no need to shout princess. The last time I saw him tonight…"

"Yes?"

"…Was just after we had mad, amazing, rough sex up against a wall in the garden. After that I don't know where he's gone."

Cassandra let out a sort of strangled screech. "I don't believe you. You're trying to trick me, you little mortal whore. You don't even deserve to be in the presence of Jareth. You deserve to be back on the streets where you came from."

Sarah stepped forward. "Back on the streets? Do you even know what I did before I came here?"

"A whore or a servant or another such low position, I suspect."

"You really are an ignorant little girl Cassandra. I was a teacher of literature and poetry. Not something I suppose you'd know much about. Now if you'll excuse me…"

She turned to Etáin and Ionnina. "I'm going to jet. I don't think I can take any more of this, ok?"

Etáin nodded and gave her friend a hug. "Don't worry about it Hunny. Come visit soon."

"I will. Thanks for everything. Ionnina you too. Don't drink now, you hear?"

Ionnina smiled and hugged her as well.

Sarah arrived back in her home. It was pitch black in the hallway and she called on her Fire to light the way. She didn't know the house well enough to walk around in the dark yet. She glanced in a mirror and saw a slightly dishevelled woman looking back at her.

"Sorry it's so late. You shouldn't have gotten up."

The woman smiled and wandered out of the mirror. Sarah dragged herself up the stairs and fell into her large bed. It had been an extraordinarily long day.

End chap

MRAN: Hello, more ramblings, anyway:

The quote "The day is come when I again repose, here under this dark sycamore" is from Wordsworth's Tintern Abby

As for the song "Some Enchanted Evening" as you know is from South Pacific, sorry about the lack of coconut bikinis. It's become Sarah and Jareth's theme in my head. Also, I felt it deserved another appearance because it came on the radio a few weeks ago and I was suddenly inspired as how to end the whole thing. Magic. I also thought, "This fic would have a messed up overture."

There are two blatant homage's to the novel Pride and Prejudice. Cookies and a Jareth if you spot them.

Well, that's the ball. Aren't you just gagging to find out what happens: Will Jareth ever remove his head from his ass?

Will Sarah elope with Lorkán?

Will Etáin achieve her dream of eating the worlds biggest cream éclair?

Is Cassandra actually a cockroach in an android body?

All this and more on the next instalment of "A Fairytale."

If you haven't noticed, I'm a little hyper.

Slán.