At the moment of AN composition, 'Between Dreams and Reality' has received 87 reviews. *grins* Thank you all so very much! Now, onto other types of general insanity...
Disclaimer: Okay, I have failed in my fanfic writer responsibilities. Yes, I have admitted to not owning 'Labyrinth' (the more I say it, the easier it is to accept...) but neither do I own any of the songs I have been using in these chapters. I'm sure you all realize that I don't own them, but I'm making it official. Huzzah!
Between Dreams and Reality
By Lyra Matsuoka
Rated PG-13
Chapter 7: Candle In The Window
Dinner had been marvelous. Sarah relaxed in her chair, propping her face on one hand. The food had been delicious, the company enchanting, and Sarah had little time to reflect on the change in herself. Sarah knew that the glow deep inside her was the beginning of completion, a feeling alien to her. The Labyrinth had kept part of her and had now given it back.
How lovely.
The fire crackled merrily as Sarah listened to Jareth relate
the every day business of the Labyrinth via crystal to his major domo.
That had been surprising. Sarah had never given much thought to Jareth as an honest-to-goodness king. Why, she didn't know. But he seemed very much the King of the Goblins just now. Velvet, lace and leather would do that to a person. Sarah's mind shifted to what else those materials could do to Jareth and felt heat bloom in her cheeks.
She glanced at Jareth, only to see him smiling in her direction. That made the blush spread to her hairline. Sarah jerked her eyes away and glared at floor when Jareth began to chuckle.
"That will be all, Kaplin," Jareth said, a smile warming his tone.
"Now this is truly an historic occasion. You spoke to a goblin, and didn't threaten to throw him in the Bog of Eternal Stench once. I simply must make a note of this."
"That is a charming color on you, my dear. I must remember how becoming you look in dark pink."
That comment brightened the color of Sarah's cheeks to a nearly glowing magenta. Jareth leaned back in his chair, gloved hands resting on the arms of the chair, watching her struggle for composure.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Jareth gazed across the small table at the woman he had loved for
most of his life and hated some of that time. It amazed him that they lapsed into this slightly cutting banter as quickly and comfortably as they seemed to.
*The pain of years is not erased in mere moments. Not even a unicorn is capable of that type of miracle.*
Jareth grinned a bit wryly as Luster's voice invaded his thoughts.
*I do not expect a miracle. I am simply hoping for the chance to right the wrongs that the two of us committed against each other.*
*Such nobility.*
*Is that sarcasm I detect? Why, Luster, I am surprised at you.*
*There is nothing worse than a smug male. I have created a monster.*
*Smug?* Jareth grinned at the description. *Why, I suppose I am. I believe I have a right to be. I finally have the chance to finish what was begun so very long ago. It is time. *
*Of course, that couldn't possibly have anything to do with the fact that you don't take rejection well. No, not a chance.*
*Luster?* Sarah's voice sounded gently. *How...*
*Darling, what you and Jareth share is Heart Speak. This is old fashion telepathy. Just a stupid Unicorn trick. I have quite a few of them. Don't stay up too late, kids!*
Jareth smirked, and Sarah burst out laughing. But Luster's presence had reminded Jareth of something.
"Sarah?"
"Yes?" she said, glancing up.
"Have you ever wanted to fly?"
"Fly? As is, fly like Peter Pan?"
"A rather crude analogy, but something like that, yes."
"Do I have to think lovely thoughts?" Sarah drawled, looking at him in condescending disbelief.
"It might help," Jareth muttered. Standing, Jareth skirted the table until he stood next to Sarah. Holding out a hand, Jareth smiled down into Sarah's face.
"You must be joking," Sarah said, crossing her arms over her chest. Jareth continued smiling and pulled her to her feet by gripping her shoulders. Without a word, Jareth began steering her toward the open window.
"I do not think so. Jareth, we can't leave. We're locked in, remember? I really don't want to repeat the flaming-door experience, if it's all the same to you."
"It was her idea," Jareth relayed with a grin, enjoying himself. It had been a long while since he had wanted to do a thing like this.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Luster grinned at the crystal she was holding. This was priceless. Better than a movie. Luster resisted the urge to conjure popcorn. There was no one around to get the joke, so what was the point?
"Showtime," she whispered, and vanished in a spray of glitter.
When she reappeared, she stood on the roof of the highest tower of the castle. Her silver hair streamed behind her, and a simple white silk shift seemed to glow in the moonlight. The air around her hand bent, shimmered, and finally solidified into her flute. Raising it to her lips, Luster played a few bars.
*Ready when you are, Jareth!*
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
"There is no way that I am going to jump out this window. I do not have a death wish."
"Sarah, as I have explained before, you will not be jumping alone. I will jump with you."
"That's very comforting. But no dice."
"Sarah, I would never let any harm come to you."
Jareth reached out a gloved hand and caressed her face. Sarah sighed and turned to look out the window. Damn but it was a long way down. She would have to be crazy to attempt it.
"Not a chance."
"Then you leave me no choice."
"What is that supposed to mean?"
Jareth didn't answer. He opened the window and began walking towards her with purpose in his eyes. Sarah, having always possessed a rather keen sense of self-preservation, began backing away.
"No, Jareth. I'm mortal remember?"
"You were mortal. Now you are of the Labyrinth."
"That makes no sense."
"I cannot explain it."
"Isn't that always the way," Sarah muttered, trying for flippancy.
"But I can show you," Jareth proclaimed. That statement caused Sarah to pause for a few crucial seconds, and Jareth took full advantage of that. In an instant, Sarah was in his arms and they were striding toward the window. Sarah began fighting, but the sinking feeling in the region of her stomach told her that she was going out the window.
"Why do things like this always happen to me?" she whispered.
"Things like this?"
"Every other girl in the world gets to fall in love with a nice normal guy who brings her flowers. I get an arrogant immortal who throws me out of windows."
Jareth chuckled. "Not throws. Carries."
"That's right, get hung up on the details. Oh, god!" Sarah gasped as Jareth stepped out of the window and into the warm enveloping night.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Luster had her flute at the ready when Jareth stepped up to the window-sill. By the time Sarah and Jareth had actually stepped outside the window, and were in the middle of a spectacular freefall, Luster had begun to play. The notes flowed quick and sure from her flute.
Watching carefully, Luster saw Jareth and Sarah falling...falling...and then they were scooped up by a mixture of magic. Luster felt Jareth in her music, and she felt the tugging that informed her of her magic working. But to Luster's surprise, she felt a third force slipping quietly into the gentle tune. It was not evil, nor did it appear to seek to harm. And so Luster accepted its presence without a fight, and played on.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Sarah shut her eyes tightly the moment Jareth stepped off the window sill and concentrated on not screaming. No different than a roller-coaster, really, or so Sarah continued to attempt and convince herself. She hated roller-coasters.
It may have been that which prevented Sarah from noticing that she wasn't falling anymore. When she finally noticed, curiosity pried her eyes open, and she gasped.
The Labyrinth stretched out below her, lights glimmering within its many twists and turns. Stunned, Sarah stared at the lovely design below, amazed that she could see so very much.
"What..?"
"Valentine evenings," Jareth murmured, bending slightly to nuzzle her neck.
"Good luck with the second date. It would be very hard to top this," Sarah breathed, looking down. Jareth's laughter filled the sky, and it seemed to Sarah that the very stars were dancing. "Can I...stand up?"
"I see no reason why not."
And Sarah was walking on air. Or rather, being carried by something. It was almost as though there were an invisible floor beneath them, or a magic carpet. Something that could move quickly yet smoothly.
Jareth's hand was warm and strong in hers, and Sarah laughed aloud, tipping back her head. The wind combed her hair, blowing the loose skirt of her dress out behind her. The stars flew past and Sarah felt a tug on her arm. She was twirled into the curve of Jareth's body and out to the other side.
A music drifted on the air, and Sarah began looking around. There, at the center of the Goblin City, a crowd had gathered. The music Sarah could hear had a pulsing beat. It was meant for dancing.
"What in the world..?"
"It is a celebration Sarah. The Labyrinth and her children are rejoicing."
"Is that our destination?"
"Indeed," Jareth's eyes gleamed as they drifted toward the ground. "We are making a grand entrance."
"So we are," Sarah said, a smile spreading across her face. "This is much more like it. A first date I mean."
"Is it really. Such a pity. I shall have to be diligent so that you are constantly surprised by me."
Sarah lifted her eyes to Jareth's and matched his smile with her own. They touched down gently, and Sarah's smile turned mischievous. "Are you going to show me a good time?"
Jareth had no chance to answer. Within seconds they were surrounded by goblins, all of them tugging at their King and, by association, her. Jareth laughed aloud, and grabbed Sarah by the hand, pulling her right into the middle of the party.
The square had a fountain in the middle, and Sarah glimpsed the band, if it could be called that, sitting on the steps of said fountain. The ground was covered with multi-colored rocks of different shapes and sizes, but everything was even and smooth to facilitate the dance. Sarah saw goblins everywhere, a few firey's were losing body parts near an alley, and Sarah thought she saw the Wiseman entertaining goblin children off to one side. The happiness of the crowd was evident, and Sarah felt the emotions of the night filling her. Lanterns of all shapes and sizes provided the majority of the light, while faeries flitted here and there, casting a shine where they flitted.
Laughing, Sarah whirled quickly and stepped side to side in a blinding pattern. Those years of dance lessons were all coming back to her now. She bent forwards and twisted back up, wrapping one leg around the other in and perfect spin.
Not to be outdone, Jareth mimicked her steps and added a few flourishes of his own. Sarah eyed him appreciatively, and when he had finished, she leaned toward him.
"Anything you can do, I can do better," she tossed at him, and performed a new routine that was much more intricate. Her skirt flared out around her, and her slippers were perfect for dancing. Knowing that Jareth was nearby, Sarah finished by tipping herself backward and falling toward the ground. As she had known he would, Jareth caught her seconds before she hit the ground.
"Anything?" he questioned, pulling her upright in such a way that her body and his were pressed together. Before Sarah could think of a snappy comeback, Jareth covered her mouth with his. Dimly, Sarah heard the approval of the crowd. The music stopped, as did all dancing, as the goblins observed the spectacle before them.
Sarah sighed when Jareth pulled away, and regrouped quickly.
"Anything," she whispered, her hands gripping the collar of his shirt, and pulling his head back down to hers. The pendants touched, and the world faded. Sarah heard the rustling of the crowd, but beneath that there was another pulse. Plants grew, stones shifted.
*Welcome home, my daughter.*
Sarah jumped and broke the kiss. Her eyes focused on Jareth's face without really seeing him. That voice...it had been female. Not Luster, her voice was lighter, filled with chimes and the whisper of magical places and interesting people. This voice had been deep, loving, and kind. Jareth's face was mere centimeters from her own, and her eyes searched his for answers. The silence was profound. Nothing moved, and all conversation had ceased.
A few trilling notes were heard drifting on the breeze, and the crowd turned as a unit. Walking toward them was Luster; of course, she was walking on air, almost as though there were invisible steps from the castle to the square. She shone in a white silk shift, her silver hair heavy and loose down her back, with simple knot holding it away from her face.
When she touched down, the crowd parted. Luster walked to the band, still playing a little tune on her flute. She bent and whispered to the leader; he nodded and gathered the rest of the band in a huddle. Luster leapt to the top of the fountain and balanced there as the band began to play. With their music, Luster began to sing.
I can't fight this feeling any longer
And yet I'm still afraid to let it flow
What started out as friendship has grown stronger
I only wish I had the strength to let it show
Jareth gently pulled one of Sarah's hands from around his neck and began swaying to the music. He seemed to be holding back slightly, and so Sarah took the lead for a few moments, turning them quickly. Jareth's eyes gleamed as he reclaimed the dance and twisted her arm slightly. Sarah followed, spinning around three times before he dipped her.
I tell myself that I can't hold out forever
I said there is no reason for my fear
'Cause I feel so secure when we're together
You give my life direction
You make everything so clear
And even as I wander
I'm keeping you in sight
You're a candle in the window
On a cold, dark winter's night
And I'm getting closer than I ever thought I might
The goblins were quickly finding the rhythm of the song and had begun to dance themselves. Jareth wrapped one arm around Sarah's waist and flung his other arm out at a ninety degree angle. Sarah copied him, and they turned slowly.
And I can't fight this feeling anymore
I've forgotten what I started fighting for
It's time to bring this ship into the shore
And throw away the oars, forever
'Cause I can't fight this feeling anymore
I've forgotten what I started fighting for
And if I had to crawl upon the floor,
Come crashing through your door
Baby I can't fight this feeling anymore
As the dance continued, Sarah found herself enveloped by her partner.
"How does she do that?" Sarah whispered.
"What?" Jareth questioned.
"Make her song the most important thing in the world. It's amazing."
"She simply ensures that there is no where else anyone listening would rather be."
My life has been such a whirlwind since I saw you
I've been running round in circles in my mind
And it always seems that I'm following you, girl
'Cause you take me to the places
That I'd known I'd never find
And even as I wander
I'm keeping you in sight
You're a candle in the window
On a cold, dark winter's night
And I'm getting closer than I ever thought I might
That made sense, in an odd sort of way. But then, that was the definition of the Labyrinth. An odd, magical place where nothing was what it seemed. As the chorus began again, an idea struck Sarah, and she turned her face up toward Jareth.
"It's for us, isn't it." It wasn't a question, and Jareth didn't pretend it was.
"For us, and for all the lovers in the crowd."
"She sounds a little sad."
"Why would you say that?" Jareth spun her out again, and Sarah was glad of the distraction. It gave her time to put words to her thought. But she didn't have a chance to voice it.
Luster's song ended, the band played a few more chords, and the dancing ceased for applause. Luster bowed, indicated the band, and flipped off the fountain and landed gracefully. The band resumed their former tune and the dancing began again, but a glow building to one side of the square drew Sarah's eyes toward it.
"Jareth, what..?"
Jareth's eyes reflected the glow, and Sarah watched in awe as the glow formed an arch. Through the arch, different types of creatures walked.
"They are the envoys of different kingdoms, sent to assist with the preparations for the Midsummer Night Ball."
"I thought Luster was..."
"Luster is handling things beautifully. However, it is considered bad manners not to at least offer assistance," Jareth spun her out again, and they circled each other without touching, drawing closer and closer to each other as they walked "so they send a delegate to fulfill the obligation."
The things walking through the gate all appeared to be human, though a few had horns in odd places. One man had what appeared to be wings tattooed on his back, while a woman actually had large feathered wings protruding from her shoulder blades. Pointed ears, graceful limbs, extra limbs; they all seemed present. Sarah continued the dance while watching them emerge. The newcomers simply joined in, selecting partners and whirling away. Laughter and conversation filled the air. There seemed to nearly fifty additions to the party when the arch began to dim.
In a last flare of light, one last person emerged. His hair was long, held away from his face in a with a silver ribbon. His features were classic, and seemed carved from marble. He was beautifully dressed in forest green.
And on his forehead shone a nine pointed silver star.
The crowd parted before him, and all dancing stopped. The band stopped playing. Sarah felt Jareth's hold on her hand tighten, and she winced slightly. She glanced back at Jareth, but Jareth wasn't looking at the new arrival. He was looking at Luster. Luster was watching the new arrival with something akin to disdain.
"Jareth, who is that?"
"His Royal Highness, Prince Kemal Mountainwalker. He is a member of the royal court of Summerhaven."
"Would you care to vauge that up for me?" Sarah asked quietly, not wishing to draw attention to herself. Jareth did not answer. Kemal paused to address the band in hushed tones, and then approached Luster with ease, his stride graceful and practiced. Luster raised her chin slightly as he approached.
"Luster Skydreamer," he intoned, bowing low.
"Kemal Mountainwalker," she replied. Silence followed. One instrument, it sounded something like a guitar, struck one note, and Kemal's flowing tenor filled the square.
See the pyramids along the Nile
Watch the sunrise on a tropic isle
Just remember, darling all the while
You belong to me
As Kemal sang, he moved closer to Luster, reaching out a hand to capture hers. Luster allowed him to do so, but kept him at a distance when he would have pulled her closer. Undaunted, Kemal moved toward her.
See the market place in old Algiers
Send me photographs and souvenirs
Just remember when a dream appears
You belong to me
When the song ended, Kemal and Luster were nearly face-to-face. They remained silent and perfectly still. Luster smiled slightly and pulled her hand free and walked toward the castle. Kemal didn't walk after her, but stood tall and arrogant in the square. Just before she reached the edge of the square, Luster turned back toward Kemal and her floating soprano filled the area.
I've crossed lines of words and wire
And both have cut me deep
I've been frozen out and I've been on fire
And the tears are mine to weep
Now I can cry until I laugh and laugh until I cry
So cut the deck right in half, I'll play from either side
I take my chances, I pay my dollar and I place my bet
I take my chances, I take my chances every chance I get
I take my chances, I don't cling to remorse or regret
I take my chances, I take my chances every chance I get
And she was gone, in a spray of glitter that floated through the crowd. No one said a word.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Fair warning. I am playing with new uploading options. Isn't this exciting? So I apologize if some things are weird or hard to read. My bad, in advance.
I hope you all liked this long chapter. Now, questions on everyone's mind...who is Kemal? What's the deal between him and Luster, anyway? And why in the world do the Unicorns sing so much? All shall be revealed in...CHAPTER 8!
Peace, Love and All That Jazz,
Lyra
Disclaimer: Okay, I have failed in my fanfic writer responsibilities. Yes, I have admitted to not owning 'Labyrinth' (the more I say it, the easier it is to accept...) but neither do I own any of the songs I have been using in these chapters. I'm sure you all realize that I don't own them, but I'm making it official. Huzzah!
Between Dreams and Reality
By Lyra Matsuoka
Rated PG-13
Chapter 7: Candle In The Window
Dinner had been marvelous. Sarah relaxed in her chair, propping her face on one hand. The food had been delicious, the company enchanting, and Sarah had little time to reflect on the change in herself. Sarah knew that the glow deep inside her was the beginning of completion, a feeling alien to her. The Labyrinth had kept part of her and had now given it back.
How lovely.
The fire crackled merrily as Sarah listened to Jareth relate
the every day business of the Labyrinth via crystal to his major domo.
That had been surprising. Sarah had never given much thought to Jareth as an honest-to-goodness king. Why, she didn't know. But he seemed very much the King of the Goblins just now. Velvet, lace and leather would do that to a person. Sarah's mind shifted to what else those materials could do to Jareth and felt heat bloom in her cheeks.
She glanced at Jareth, only to see him smiling in her direction. That made the blush spread to her hairline. Sarah jerked her eyes away and glared at floor when Jareth began to chuckle.
"That will be all, Kaplin," Jareth said, a smile warming his tone.
"Now this is truly an historic occasion. You spoke to a goblin, and didn't threaten to throw him in the Bog of Eternal Stench once. I simply must make a note of this."
"That is a charming color on you, my dear. I must remember how becoming you look in dark pink."
That comment brightened the color of Sarah's cheeks to a nearly glowing magenta. Jareth leaned back in his chair, gloved hands resting on the arms of the chair, watching her struggle for composure.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Jareth gazed across the small table at the woman he had loved for
most of his life and hated some of that time. It amazed him that they lapsed into this slightly cutting banter as quickly and comfortably as they seemed to.
*The pain of years is not erased in mere moments. Not even a unicorn is capable of that type of miracle.*
Jareth grinned a bit wryly as Luster's voice invaded his thoughts.
*I do not expect a miracle. I am simply hoping for the chance to right the wrongs that the two of us committed against each other.*
*Such nobility.*
*Is that sarcasm I detect? Why, Luster, I am surprised at you.*
*There is nothing worse than a smug male. I have created a monster.*
*Smug?* Jareth grinned at the description. *Why, I suppose I am. I believe I have a right to be. I finally have the chance to finish what was begun so very long ago. It is time. *
*Of course, that couldn't possibly have anything to do with the fact that you don't take rejection well. No, not a chance.*
*Luster?* Sarah's voice sounded gently. *How...*
*Darling, what you and Jareth share is Heart Speak. This is old fashion telepathy. Just a stupid Unicorn trick. I have quite a few of them. Don't stay up too late, kids!*
Jareth smirked, and Sarah burst out laughing. But Luster's presence had reminded Jareth of something.
"Sarah?"
"Yes?" she said, glancing up.
"Have you ever wanted to fly?"
"Fly? As is, fly like Peter Pan?"
"A rather crude analogy, but something like that, yes."
"Do I have to think lovely thoughts?" Sarah drawled, looking at him in condescending disbelief.
"It might help," Jareth muttered. Standing, Jareth skirted the table until he stood next to Sarah. Holding out a hand, Jareth smiled down into Sarah's face.
"You must be joking," Sarah said, crossing her arms over her chest. Jareth continued smiling and pulled her to her feet by gripping her shoulders. Without a word, Jareth began steering her toward the open window.
"I do not think so. Jareth, we can't leave. We're locked in, remember? I really don't want to repeat the flaming-door experience, if it's all the same to you."
"It was her idea," Jareth relayed with a grin, enjoying himself. It had been a long while since he had wanted to do a thing like this.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Luster grinned at the crystal she was holding. This was priceless. Better than a movie. Luster resisted the urge to conjure popcorn. There was no one around to get the joke, so what was the point?
"Showtime," she whispered, and vanished in a spray of glitter.
When she reappeared, she stood on the roof of the highest tower of the castle. Her silver hair streamed behind her, and a simple white silk shift seemed to glow in the moonlight. The air around her hand bent, shimmered, and finally solidified into her flute. Raising it to her lips, Luster played a few bars.
*Ready when you are, Jareth!*
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
"There is no way that I am going to jump out this window. I do not have a death wish."
"Sarah, as I have explained before, you will not be jumping alone. I will jump with you."
"That's very comforting. But no dice."
"Sarah, I would never let any harm come to you."
Jareth reached out a gloved hand and caressed her face. Sarah sighed and turned to look out the window. Damn but it was a long way down. She would have to be crazy to attempt it.
"Not a chance."
"Then you leave me no choice."
"What is that supposed to mean?"
Jareth didn't answer. He opened the window and began walking towards her with purpose in his eyes. Sarah, having always possessed a rather keen sense of self-preservation, began backing away.
"No, Jareth. I'm mortal remember?"
"You were mortal. Now you are of the Labyrinth."
"That makes no sense."
"I cannot explain it."
"Isn't that always the way," Sarah muttered, trying for flippancy.
"But I can show you," Jareth proclaimed. That statement caused Sarah to pause for a few crucial seconds, and Jareth took full advantage of that. In an instant, Sarah was in his arms and they were striding toward the window. Sarah began fighting, but the sinking feeling in the region of her stomach told her that she was going out the window.
"Why do things like this always happen to me?" she whispered.
"Things like this?"
"Every other girl in the world gets to fall in love with a nice normal guy who brings her flowers. I get an arrogant immortal who throws me out of windows."
Jareth chuckled. "Not throws. Carries."
"That's right, get hung up on the details. Oh, god!" Sarah gasped as Jareth stepped out of the window and into the warm enveloping night.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Luster had her flute at the ready when Jareth stepped up to the window-sill. By the time Sarah and Jareth had actually stepped outside the window, and were in the middle of a spectacular freefall, Luster had begun to play. The notes flowed quick and sure from her flute.
Watching carefully, Luster saw Jareth and Sarah falling...falling...and then they were scooped up by a mixture of magic. Luster felt Jareth in her music, and she felt the tugging that informed her of her magic working. But to Luster's surprise, she felt a third force slipping quietly into the gentle tune. It was not evil, nor did it appear to seek to harm. And so Luster accepted its presence without a fight, and played on.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Sarah shut her eyes tightly the moment Jareth stepped off the window sill and concentrated on not screaming. No different than a roller-coaster, really, or so Sarah continued to attempt and convince herself. She hated roller-coasters.
It may have been that which prevented Sarah from noticing that she wasn't falling anymore. When she finally noticed, curiosity pried her eyes open, and she gasped.
The Labyrinth stretched out below her, lights glimmering within its many twists and turns. Stunned, Sarah stared at the lovely design below, amazed that she could see so very much.
"What..?"
"Valentine evenings," Jareth murmured, bending slightly to nuzzle her neck.
"Good luck with the second date. It would be very hard to top this," Sarah breathed, looking down. Jareth's laughter filled the sky, and it seemed to Sarah that the very stars were dancing. "Can I...stand up?"
"I see no reason why not."
And Sarah was walking on air. Or rather, being carried by something. It was almost as though there were an invisible floor beneath them, or a magic carpet. Something that could move quickly yet smoothly.
Jareth's hand was warm and strong in hers, and Sarah laughed aloud, tipping back her head. The wind combed her hair, blowing the loose skirt of her dress out behind her. The stars flew past and Sarah felt a tug on her arm. She was twirled into the curve of Jareth's body and out to the other side.
A music drifted on the air, and Sarah began looking around. There, at the center of the Goblin City, a crowd had gathered. The music Sarah could hear had a pulsing beat. It was meant for dancing.
"What in the world..?"
"It is a celebration Sarah. The Labyrinth and her children are rejoicing."
"Is that our destination?"
"Indeed," Jareth's eyes gleamed as they drifted toward the ground. "We are making a grand entrance."
"So we are," Sarah said, a smile spreading across her face. "This is much more like it. A first date I mean."
"Is it really. Such a pity. I shall have to be diligent so that you are constantly surprised by me."
Sarah lifted her eyes to Jareth's and matched his smile with her own. They touched down gently, and Sarah's smile turned mischievous. "Are you going to show me a good time?"
Jareth had no chance to answer. Within seconds they were surrounded by goblins, all of them tugging at their King and, by association, her. Jareth laughed aloud, and grabbed Sarah by the hand, pulling her right into the middle of the party.
The square had a fountain in the middle, and Sarah glimpsed the band, if it could be called that, sitting on the steps of said fountain. The ground was covered with multi-colored rocks of different shapes and sizes, but everything was even and smooth to facilitate the dance. Sarah saw goblins everywhere, a few firey's were losing body parts near an alley, and Sarah thought she saw the Wiseman entertaining goblin children off to one side. The happiness of the crowd was evident, and Sarah felt the emotions of the night filling her. Lanterns of all shapes and sizes provided the majority of the light, while faeries flitted here and there, casting a shine where they flitted.
Laughing, Sarah whirled quickly and stepped side to side in a blinding pattern. Those years of dance lessons were all coming back to her now. She bent forwards and twisted back up, wrapping one leg around the other in and perfect spin.
Not to be outdone, Jareth mimicked her steps and added a few flourishes of his own. Sarah eyed him appreciatively, and when he had finished, she leaned toward him.
"Anything you can do, I can do better," she tossed at him, and performed a new routine that was much more intricate. Her skirt flared out around her, and her slippers were perfect for dancing. Knowing that Jareth was nearby, Sarah finished by tipping herself backward and falling toward the ground. As she had known he would, Jareth caught her seconds before she hit the ground.
"Anything?" he questioned, pulling her upright in such a way that her body and his were pressed together. Before Sarah could think of a snappy comeback, Jareth covered her mouth with his. Dimly, Sarah heard the approval of the crowd. The music stopped, as did all dancing, as the goblins observed the spectacle before them.
Sarah sighed when Jareth pulled away, and regrouped quickly.
"Anything," she whispered, her hands gripping the collar of his shirt, and pulling his head back down to hers. The pendants touched, and the world faded. Sarah heard the rustling of the crowd, but beneath that there was another pulse. Plants grew, stones shifted.
*Welcome home, my daughter.*
Sarah jumped and broke the kiss. Her eyes focused on Jareth's face without really seeing him. That voice...it had been female. Not Luster, her voice was lighter, filled with chimes and the whisper of magical places and interesting people. This voice had been deep, loving, and kind. Jareth's face was mere centimeters from her own, and her eyes searched his for answers. The silence was profound. Nothing moved, and all conversation had ceased.
A few trilling notes were heard drifting on the breeze, and the crowd turned as a unit. Walking toward them was Luster; of course, she was walking on air, almost as though there were invisible steps from the castle to the square. She shone in a white silk shift, her silver hair heavy and loose down her back, with simple knot holding it away from her face.
When she touched down, the crowd parted. Luster walked to the band, still playing a little tune on her flute. She bent and whispered to the leader; he nodded and gathered the rest of the band in a huddle. Luster leapt to the top of the fountain and balanced there as the band began to play. With their music, Luster began to sing.
I can't fight this feeling any longer
And yet I'm still afraid to let it flow
What started out as friendship has grown stronger
I only wish I had the strength to let it show
Jareth gently pulled one of Sarah's hands from around his neck and began swaying to the music. He seemed to be holding back slightly, and so Sarah took the lead for a few moments, turning them quickly. Jareth's eyes gleamed as he reclaimed the dance and twisted her arm slightly. Sarah followed, spinning around three times before he dipped her.
I tell myself that I can't hold out forever
I said there is no reason for my fear
'Cause I feel so secure when we're together
You give my life direction
You make everything so clear
And even as I wander
I'm keeping you in sight
You're a candle in the window
On a cold, dark winter's night
And I'm getting closer than I ever thought I might
The goblins were quickly finding the rhythm of the song and had begun to dance themselves. Jareth wrapped one arm around Sarah's waist and flung his other arm out at a ninety degree angle. Sarah copied him, and they turned slowly.
And I can't fight this feeling anymore
I've forgotten what I started fighting for
It's time to bring this ship into the shore
And throw away the oars, forever
'Cause I can't fight this feeling anymore
I've forgotten what I started fighting for
And if I had to crawl upon the floor,
Come crashing through your door
Baby I can't fight this feeling anymore
As the dance continued, Sarah found herself enveloped by her partner.
"How does she do that?" Sarah whispered.
"What?" Jareth questioned.
"Make her song the most important thing in the world. It's amazing."
"She simply ensures that there is no where else anyone listening would rather be."
My life has been such a whirlwind since I saw you
I've been running round in circles in my mind
And it always seems that I'm following you, girl
'Cause you take me to the places
That I'd known I'd never find
And even as I wander
I'm keeping you in sight
You're a candle in the window
On a cold, dark winter's night
And I'm getting closer than I ever thought I might
That made sense, in an odd sort of way. But then, that was the definition of the Labyrinth. An odd, magical place where nothing was what it seemed. As the chorus began again, an idea struck Sarah, and she turned her face up toward Jareth.
"It's for us, isn't it." It wasn't a question, and Jareth didn't pretend it was.
"For us, and for all the lovers in the crowd."
"She sounds a little sad."
"Why would you say that?" Jareth spun her out again, and Sarah was glad of the distraction. It gave her time to put words to her thought. But she didn't have a chance to voice it.
Luster's song ended, the band played a few more chords, and the dancing ceased for applause. Luster bowed, indicated the band, and flipped off the fountain and landed gracefully. The band resumed their former tune and the dancing began again, but a glow building to one side of the square drew Sarah's eyes toward it.
"Jareth, what..?"
Jareth's eyes reflected the glow, and Sarah watched in awe as the glow formed an arch. Through the arch, different types of creatures walked.
"They are the envoys of different kingdoms, sent to assist with the preparations for the Midsummer Night Ball."
"I thought Luster was..."
"Luster is handling things beautifully. However, it is considered bad manners not to at least offer assistance," Jareth spun her out again, and they circled each other without touching, drawing closer and closer to each other as they walked "so they send a delegate to fulfill the obligation."
The things walking through the gate all appeared to be human, though a few had horns in odd places. One man had what appeared to be wings tattooed on his back, while a woman actually had large feathered wings protruding from her shoulder blades. Pointed ears, graceful limbs, extra limbs; they all seemed present. Sarah continued the dance while watching them emerge. The newcomers simply joined in, selecting partners and whirling away. Laughter and conversation filled the air. There seemed to nearly fifty additions to the party when the arch began to dim.
In a last flare of light, one last person emerged. His hair was long, held away from his face in a with a silver ribbon. His features were classic, and seemed carved from marble. He was beautifully dressed in forest green.
And on his forehead shone a nine pointed silver star.
The crowd parted before him, and all dancing stopped. The band stopped playing. Sarah felt Jareth's hold on her hand tighten, and she winced slightly. She glanced back at Jareth, but Jareth wasn't looking at the new arrival. He was looking at Luster. Luster was watching the new arrival with something akin to disdain.
"Jareth, who is that?"
"His Royal Highness, Prince Kemal Mountainwalker. He is a member of the royal court of Summerhaven."
"Would you care to vauge that up for me?" Sarah asked quietly, not wishing to draw attention to herself. Jareth did not answer. Kemal paused to address the band in hushed tones, and then approached Luster with ease, his stride graceful and practiced. Luster raised her chin slightly as he approached.
"Luster Skydreamer," he intoned, bowing low.
"Kemal Mountainwalker," she replied. Silence followed. One instrument, it sounded something like a guitar, struck one note, and Kemal's flowing tenor filled the square.
See the pyramids along the Nile
Watch the sunrise on a tropic isle
Just remember, darling all the while
You belong to me
As Kemal sang, he moved closer to Luster, reaching out a hand to capture hers. Luster allowed him to do so, but kept him at a distance when he would have pulled her closer. Undaunted, Kemal moved toward her.
See the market place in old Algiers
Send me photographs and souvenirs
Just remember when a dream appears
You belong to me
When the song ended, Kemal and Luster were nearly face-to-face. They remained silent and perfectly still. Luster smiled slightly and pulled her hand free and walked toward the castle. Kemal didn't walk after her, but stood tall and arrogant in the square. Just before she reached the edge of the square, Luster turned back toward Kemal and her floating soprano filled the area.
I've crossed lines of words and wire
And both have cut me deep
I've been frozen out and I've been on fire
And the tears are mine to weep
Now I can cry until I laugh and laugh until I cry
So cut the deck right in half, I'll play from either side
I take my chances, I pay my dollar and I place my bet
I take my chances, I take my chances every chance I get
I take my chances, I don't cling to remorse or regret
I take my chances, I take my chances every chance I get
And she was gone, in a spray of glitter that floated through the crowd. No one said a word.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Fair warning. I am playing with new uploading options. Isn't this exciting? So I apologize if some things are weird or hard to read. My bad, in advance.
I hope you all liked this long chapter. Now, questions on everyone's mind...who is Kemal? What's the deal between him and Luster, anyway? And why in the world do the Unicorns sing so much? All shall be revealed in...CHAPTER 8!
Peace, Love and All That Jazz,
Lyra