Author's Note: Hope this is long enough for everybody! And welcome, LadySorrow! You might be right with your guesses…………or wrong. Just keep reading and find out! Merry Christmas!

Chapter 18: Preparing for the Ball/Being Noticed

Adina stood in the middle of her room, gazing at the beautiful furniture and formal décor. "It's nothing like the guest rooms back home, but it's nice," she sighed, sitting on the large bed. "Too bad I can't say the same about my host." What was with him anyway? Adina let out another sigh. "I wish I had someone to talk to." She looked down, and grinned suddenly. "Maybe I do!"

"Adina, darling! So nice to hear from you! Are you well?" the Queen exclaimed, looking at her daughter. "I'm fine, Mother. I got here safe and sound." "But, Adina! No maids or escorts! Not even your lovely clothes and jewelry I had prepared for you! How are you going to survive?"

"I'll be fine, Mother, don't worry," Adina said into the bracelet they had given her. Knowing Mother's taste in clothes and jewels, I'm rather glad none of that stuff is here. Holding back a grimace at the thought of the outfits, Adina turned her attention back to the Queen.

"-But, but," the Queen was sputtering. "Image is everything! Nothing matters but the way you are viewed! Here your intelligence will mean nothing!" If I don't stop this now, she'll be ranting for hours. I don't think she's concerned about me one bit! "Mother, I have a ball to prepare for. I will be fine, " Adina stated firmly, ending the conversation.

Once that was done, she sat back down on her bed. Mentally reviewing royal ball protocol, Adina hoped she could think of a solution as to what to wear. Well, there are the curtains. I could sew a gown from those- no, that's what a scarlet Faerie would do!

She crossed over to the closet, opened it, and saw every type of clothing imaginable inside- dresses, shirts, jackets, skirts, coats, even gloves and hats. He may be rude, but at least I know I have clothes, Adina thought gratefully. Now, what to wear?

In his bedroom, Jareth paced back and forth, thinking about Adina. Certainly a bold one. She'll be a good Queen for the Faeries some day. Yet there had been a different look in her eyes as she'd pushed him- one of sadness, and defiance. What could she possibly be- "This is ridiculous!" he burst out, annoyed. "I don't know her at all, and I'm concerned for her! Why?"

It was definitely something to think about.

Later that evening, beautifully dressed men and women of all kinds entered the Goblin King's castle. They were excited for two reasons: one, to see the lovely young Faerie princess, and two, because there hadn't been a ball of this magnitude in a long time. Gaily chattering, the guests walked into a glittering ballroom.

The room sparkled under a large chandelier. Its gold fixtures and crystals shone, thanks to the thousand candles upon it. Gold covered chairs lined ivory walls, and above the dancing floor was a staircase leading to the Goblin King's throne.

Eagerly, the guests poured in, their quiet murmurs of approval contrasting their movements. Two goblins entered, each carrying a silver trumpet, and blew into them loudly. A wizened dwarf entered, looking rather glum, and announced, "His Majesty, King Jareth of the Goblins, and Her Royal Highness, Princess Adina of the Faeries!"

After his announcement, Hoggle watched the royal pair enter the room, noting how they stared straight ahead. It's like they don't even know who's next to 'em, he thought. Adina looks pretty, though. Still in black- I wouldn'ta thought Jareth'd given her any black dresses. Sighing, Hoggle retreated into the shadows, hoping Adina wouldn't notice him. "I don't want her to see me again. Not after what I did. Damn that Jareth."

Jareth smiled regally as he escorted Adina up the staircase to her seat. Things are going well, even if the little brat is clinging to all black. Why would a Faerie dress so seriously? He inwardly groaned, once again furious with himself. Why am I so concerned? I don't love her, she's not my sister, so why?

So far, so good, Adina mused, watching the guests all curtsy or bow to them. His Royal Tightness hasn't been a pain so far, and my gown is lovely……. She had chosen a dress of the blackest silk, with a sweeping train. A silver circlet with black stones sat on her head, and matching earrings, a necklace, and bracelet completed her ensemble. Certainly better than the yellow monstrosity I had to wear at the last ball!

Another blast of trumpets sounded, and Adina groaned, knowing only too well what it meant. The first dance, by the host and guest of honor. Oh no! Too late to disappear now.

Jareth walked Adina to the center of the floor, as was the tradition. She looks as if she'd rather be back in the labyrinth, than dance with me, he thought, somewhat amused. Well, Adina, the feeling is mutual. Sighing, Jareth turned to face her and begin.

Somebody get me out of this! I'd rather die! Adina inwardly yelped, smiling at the guests. She knew how to dance, but wanted nothing to do with the Goblin King.

And suddenly, a solution came to her. She cleared her throat, looked Jareth in the eye, and spoke. "Your Majesty-"- she had everyone's attention so far- "-this ball cannot continue!"

Oh boy! And what is Adina up to now?