Author's Note: Canace the Christmas fairy has returned! Thank you to everyone who has reviewed this so far! (I do hope you all come back to read the rest…….) We're about to have Jareth and Adina meet, so let the fun begin!

Chapter 17: Second Impressions

Goblins shouted and chickens flew as Adina appeared inside the city. She stood still, gaining her bearings, and eyed the streets. I need to wait for Master Beggar though. He should be coming along.

Several minutes later, he still hadn't walked through the gates. Where could he have gone? Adina wondered, reaching out with her senses. Nothing. Sadness filled her, mixed with confusion. He'd want me to go on. I'll miss you, my friend. She sighed, and began walking , as goblins began quickly trailing behind her.

Jareth looked out the highest window of his castle, hearing a commotion from the city below. I wonder how Adina and Hoggle are doing. They're probably crushed, due to Humongous and that axe of his.

Conjuring a crystal, he almost fell out of the window upon seeing Adina walking in the city streets, goblins following. How did she get here so quickly? Without finishing the labyrinth? Impossible, I would've known! Jareth silently argued with himself, trying to cover the inner confusion that was rising.

The captain of his guard entered and started speaking, but Jareth abruptly cut him off. "Yes, I know she's here. Go down and give her a formal escort to the throne room." The sooner the better.

Adina glanced around as the goblin guards walked her to the throne room. She hoped to see Master Beggar somewhere in the crowd, but as of yet, there was no such luck. The goblins all immediately straightened as they entered a large room, filled with more of their kind. In the middle of the room stood- "Princess Adina. I'm Jareth, King of the Goblin Realm. Welcome."

Master Beggar peeked out from behind a corner and watched the proceedings. Adina had looked shocked upon seeing Jareth, and he knew why. That's what happens when he sends you a dream crystal, Adina, and he appears in it. He pulled back in terror, afraid Adina would see him. I never want her to see me again. Not after what I've done.

What's wrong, Princess? Don't like what you see? Jareth thought, smiling down at her. She had betrayed her surprise at seeing him by turning pale, but had remained silent. "Thank you, Your Majesty. It is an honor to be here," Adina spoke finally looking at him again. Her voice trembled a little, showing how shaken up she was. "I hope your visit will increase the pleasant relationship our kingdoms have," he countered, moving toward her with a triumphant smile.

Adina tried not to let him see how much he truly bothered her. Why, if he wants good relations, would he do that to me? Scare me half to death? He was the one who had caused that awful dream; she was certain of it by the look on his face. She glanced at the goblins to regain her composure, and replied, "That is my fondest wish too, Your Majesty."

She was the picture of sweetness itself until she felt a nudge in her mind. Why, that……..pile of stench! Try to read my mind, will he? Take this, o Goblin King! Adina mentally shoved Jareth as hard as possible. She still appeared sweet and innocent, trying not to laugh at the look on his face as he flew across the room, into a pile of cushions.

Who does she think she is?The Mother? To walk in and start shoving me around! Jareth raged. Slowly, he stood, all the while masking his fury at the bold Faerie girl. "Your Highness," he finally spat out, "this evening there will be a ball in your honor. Until then, you may rest in your chambers, which these fellows will show you to." As Adina left the room, he glared at her. Try that again, little Princess, and your Faerie realm will have one less resident!

And this is all on their first true meeting! And why is Master Beggar avoiding Adina? So, what do you think? Please review!