I DO NOT OWN THE LABYRINTH OR IT'S CHARACTERS. NO GAIN MONETARY OR OTHERWISE IS BEING MADE

Comments and questions are very welcome. Please leave a contribution in the box.

khalifaaax: I don't know if you're still with me, but thanks for the review. Sorry to answer so late, better late than never. I have chapters coming in left and right now.

Guest 2022: No. Thank you. Your reviews keep me going.

Guest 2022: Yes! Comic relief is needed at times. I made myself laugh, isn't that pretty bad? I wanted to write more, but thought it best to stop before I ended up with another story to tend to. Poor Hoggle, he is my unsung hero.

Guest 2022: Stay tuned for more drama! It is never in short supply.

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Hoggle didn't know why he was always in the middle of Sarah, Jareth, and whatever else was going on. All he knew was that he had to protect the little lady at all cost. She really had been his first friend, and for that he would always be greatful. The rat on the other hand, could take a long dive, head first into the bog for all he cared.

Hoggle had awaited the amount of time before he took the peach Jareth had given him, it served him right for what he did to Sarah during her run in the Labyrinth. It was almost time to escort Sarah into the waiting room. There were spies everywhere, and no one was to be trusted. He took a bite out of the offending looking fruit. Lucky for him, a bite was all he needed for the magik to take place.

He felt his eyes begin to change shape, and color. Next, he felt his clothes fall several sizes too big, with his legs slowly filling them out. His arms began to stretch painfully, with certain body parts filling out the pants in a rather vulgar fashion. His nose seemed to have shrunk to a smaller size, with a final whoosh in the air as his hair popped in an exaggerated fashion.

Hoggle stood before the mirror, and jumped in fright. Before him was no longer him, but an exact replica of himself. Hoggle shuddered, "Now that is horrible." He said in a voice that went with the body in the mirror, not his. He took a few steps, walking back and forth trying to get a feel of the difference in weight and balance. "I's looks like a drunk pirate."

After a few tries, he figured that was as good as it was going to get.

"Jareth' stood next to 'his' door, taking a deep breath before knocking. He knocked three times, stop then two, and then three more. Sarah would know that to be the sign it was safe to open the door. The real Jareth actually trusted the dwarf, he would not make the mistake of having any other escort her. No one even knew she would be making an appearance. The ball was being held at his castle, with all the arrangements made. Everyone was shocked at the last minute changes, but again it was all for a purpose. He did not know who he could trust outside of the select few.

He walked Sarah to the waiting room, before her and Jareth's announcement to be made. Sarah was shocked, wondering why Jareth was picking her up and not Hoggle. He quickly put a finger to his lips, "Well missy, you were told once you got to the centre, you never get out." And with that he winked at her, showing her his wrist. It was only then that Sarah showed realization in her eyes, understanding who he truly was.

She could have died laughing right then and there. "I truly appreciate it." Was all she could manage to say. Once entering the waiting room, Sarah was about to speak. "Jareth" put his finger to his lips, silencing her, and went to a closet door. He opened the door, walking though. The door closed, vanishing and reappearing. Once again, Jareth walked through the door, and again watched as it vanished.

His stance was different, almost regal. The gleam in his eyes, it was almost too much for her to look at. Finally she looked at his wrists, and realized that they were bare. She smiled to herself with the knowledge that this in fact, was the real Jareth.

Jareth made sure she had everything, nothing but the best for his queen. Jareth took one look at her, and felt his heart stop a few beats, but he quickly recovered. Her dress had the colors of his kingdom, her dress very in fashion with the fae, revealing enough to want to see more, but showing enough to shock. The bottom of her gown were made of feathers, with a few of his own weaved in for her protection.

He took her hand, and placed an amulet that very much matched his own. "There, you are all set. Welcome home, Queen of the Goblins, Mistress and Champion of the Labyrinth, Protector of the Lost, and Queen Consort of the Goblin King." Sarah nodded slightly, as per protocol. Sarah handed him the amulet, confusion washed over his face until she raised her hair up and leaned forward. "Some assistance, if you please."

After clasping her amulet, taking as much time as possible, Jareth couldn't help but feel her body shiver slightly. He said nothing, as he wasn't all too sure if it was him or her, both breathing in the other's scent. He slowly stepped back, face blank of any emotion. "Ready?" He asked. "Just remember all you have learned, you will do wonderfully. Just remember, we are on the same side, precious. No matter what, we have a responsibility to those in our care, trust no one outside our circle. "

Sarah nodded. "I think I am going puke." Jareth's eyebrow flinched, but sighed in understanding. "Yes, well, that too must wait. We will be announced shortly, let's get into position."

The halls seemed surprisingly empty, but Sarah could feel the power of the Labyrinth's protective wards in place. They were the last two to be announced, again as per protocol. "Announcing Goblin king, Son of Oberion, Keeper and Heir of the Danaans, Jareth and Sarah, Champion of the Labyrinth, Queen of the Goblins, Mistress and Champion of the Labyrinth, Protector of the Lost, and Queen Consort to the Goblin King, Sarah."

For a split moment, there was silence, all eyes were on the two monarchs of the goblin kingdom. Sarah could feel the hairs on the back of her raise as she heard someone gasp loudly and glass breaking. She wasn't sure where that came from, but kept looking straight, as she was told to do. The murmurs once resumed when she and Jareth took their first steps down to the main ballroom floor. Once at the bottom, Sarah could see the people more clearly without having to move her head. To her shock and amazement she recognized a few faces, and had she not been in queen mode, she would be yelling right now, turning into her former fifteen year old self.

Jareth never let go of her hand, and made his way to the first couple on their left. "I introduce to you Loki, prince to the Elvin kingdom and my brother, and his companion." Sarah was grateful now for all the painstaking hours of Jareth having her practice her facial control. She could not believe what she was seeing. Right in front of her was the man she met in the above as Lucious, with her best friend since college. Jasmine had a lot of explaining to do.

Sarah nodded slightly at Loki, whom she assumed was his real name.

She could tell by the looks on their faces that neither of them expected her. Jasmine's jaw appeared to have taken permanent residence on the floor, but Loki quickly recovered. He bowed to her, visibly squeezing Jasmine's hand and she stumbled a curtsey. It was almost worth the betrayal Sarah now felt, to watch their reaction. "A pleasure, Queen Sarah, welcome home." Jasmine looked up, breaking protocol, as she was only a guest, having no title, she was not to look up until they acknowledged her. Sarah could see her friend's eyes shining brightly, filling up with tears, but Sarah gave Jareth a signal she was ready to move on. She did not feel bad at the moment, nor would she.

Next, was another familiar face, as Jareth announced his father's royal advisor and commanding general to his army, Puck. Only Sarah was quite sure she knew him as Robin Goodfellow, and her once blind date. Puck smiled at her, as if he had seen her naked. He took her hand, placing a kiss on her wrist. She was sure she felt his tongue on her pulse, and for some reason all she wanted to do was laugh. She was oddly turned on by the whole ordeal, but again her face showed nothing.

Puck bowed before her, not letting go of her hand, nor taking his eyes off her. "Queen Sarah, the tales of your beauty pale in comparison to the real thing. I am sure, apart from the high queen, your beauty has no comparison. Welcome home, my queen." Sarah could feel agitation rolling off of Jareth, but outside he was as if nothing phased him. Again, she nodded slightly, and signaled Jareth to move on. They walked around, her being introduced to several lords and ladies. She was sure she would never remember them all, but also sure neither did Jareth. Finally, they reach the high king and queen. Sarah felt as if all eyes were upon them, waiting to see the reactions of Oberon and Tatiana.

"Your majesties," Jareth bowed. Sarah followed suit, as this would be the only time she would have to do so. "I present to you the one the Labyrinth has chosen to be my Champion, queen, and wife." Sarah's face cracked a little, but thankfully she was facing down. His wife?! She screams internally. "Stand child, it is about time my son has settled down. This is a moment of great joy!" Oberon shouted for all to hear. "We must have it formalized before all the kingdoms!"

Queen Tatiana was as stoic as ever, awaiting her turn to greet Sarah. Oberon placed a hand lightly on Tatiana's shoulder. "Rise, daughter. Welcome Goblin Queen. May your reign be long and prosperous." Sarah stood, facing the two. "Thank you. We also welcome you to our home, may our alliance remain strong, and should you need us…" Tatiana and Oberon smiled, not needing her to finish.

Jareth took her to the middle of the dance floor, as they took the first dance. He was very proud of her so far, she had done wonderfully. Next, the high king and queen joined them on the dance floor, with others soon following. After a few songs, Jareth took Sarah to the side, watching the others dance. They said nothing at the moment, both ever vigilant and on edge. He handed her a glass of Goblin wine, as it was offered to them. Sarah smiled, thanking him quietly.

As Jareth was taking a sip, he felt someone walk behind him. "Why Jareth, you didn't introduce me." Lady Leahnor now stood before him. "I hope you have a few dances in there for little old me." Jareth remained quietly seething, but per protocol could not respond. Sarah could, and did. "His majesty," Sarah stressed. "Is not up for any dancing at the moment, but try again later with some sense of propriety and ask me if he is free later. Perhaps I may be feeling….generous."

Jareth almost spit his drink, as he was hiding his smile behind his drink. Sarah, clearly dismissing her, turned her head to when she felt someone call her name. Not so much to her surprise, was Puck standing before them. "Queen Sarah, it is good to see you again." Sarah felt Jareth stiffen next to her. From a quick glance, she saw the confusion on Jareth's face. Not sure what protocol called for, she went casually. She was still upset with the lack of respect from Lady Leahnor, and Jareth looked all too happy at two women practically fighting over him. She was also none too thrilled about seeing Jasmine and Loki following right behind him.

Puk looked at Jareth, giving him a slight nod. Sarah looked past Puk, having Jasmine and Loki much closer. They both solved each other. "This is the famous boyfriend? Jasmine?" Sarah questioned, rather sternly. "You must be the infamous Sarah." Loki responded. "Jasmine gave a weak description of you, you are everything more than I expected. It is…unusual for me to be amazed, yet here I am. Shocked and amazed."

Jasmine kept staring at all of them, saying nothing and drinking it all in. Jareth mimicked some of her reactions. Sarah just wanted the night to be over. Thankfully, or not so much, Puk asked Sarah to dance. "I would like that very much," As Sarah was about to walk off, Jareth grabbed her arm, not so discreetly, and whispered in her ear. "You will explain this to me." It wasn't a request at all. She saw Lady Leahnor seething in the corner, waiting to bait Jareth. She just nodded, and walked to the dance floor with her new dance partner.

To everyone around, nothing seemed amiss. The queen was dancing with someone who was close to the kingdom, and she looked rather comfortable in his arms. Where Jareth was standing, she could see him and Loki huddled together, whispering in each other's ear.

"So. Did you know with whom you were being set up with?" Sarah asked openly. Puk smiled at her, and shook his head no. "I did not know until I saw you, felt the familiar pull that resides within you." He said. "And what, did you think to make a fool of me that night? What were your intentions then?" She asked. "What were yours, Queen Sarah? What did you, married to the Goblin King, plan on doing on this blind date? What were your intentions?" He hissed back. After a moment, they just stared into each other's eyes. His face softened, looking past her, he began to whisper in her ear. "I must say that I am very sorry not to have called you back. Sarah," Puk said seductively, "You are far more beautiful without your glamour." Sarah unconsciously untucked pieces of her hair, ashamed of her pointy ears, blushing. " Don't. Don't hide them or ever forget what I said. It was no farce on my end, my queen. I may be known as a trickster, but never to you. And never without your knowledge." Standing straight once again, he held her tight.

She sighed, tired of this political mess. The song was greatfully over when they walked back to Jareth. Puk watched as Sarah was being taken to the dance floor by Jareth again. Jareth held her tightly in his arms, smiling firmly in place, though the smile did not reach his eyes. With one hand he caressed her face, like a loving husband. Sarah was half way tempted to lean into the hand, when she saw Lady Leahnor behind him, dancing with another fae.

Sarah decided two could play this game. She leaned into his hand, allowing Jareth to hold her closer. "Just what was all that about?" He stood up, still showing that same 'loving' smile. Sarah looked down, blushing slightly, as if her 'husband' had said something rather naughty, just for her ears only. She wasn't voted best actress in the school plays for nothing, Sarah could always commit.

She looked up in his eyes, leaning closer, she covered her mouth as she staged whispered something in his ear. "You are so naughty, but shouldn't we wait until we are alone, surely we will be missed if we go now." Jareth understood her meaning, but was not satisfied with her answer. He leaned in once more, one hand caressing her backside in a rather lewd way. Sarah cringed inside, but she did not stop him.

Oh! He would pay! Sarah vowed to herself. Bad enough he announced her as his queen and wife, but what of all those years of radio silence, and what of his tramp being here?! She knew it was all a game, but he had made her look a fool in her own kingdom. "Kiss me." He commanded, "Make it look real." He stood back, watching her face turn many shades of colors. He had the same smile on his face as the ball he created from that blasted crystal.

She bit her lip, then caressed his face with one hand, closed her eyes for a split second, but soon looked at him under hooded eyes. She could pretend it was someone else, just for right now. Sarah had to stand on the tips of her toes, and coax him to meet her half way. She kissed him lightly on the lips, then increased the pressure with each kiss. Finally, they were holding each other in their arms, making out passionately as if they were the only two there.

Somewhere she was sure she heard a gasp, and a female screeching, but at that moment she did not care. Then, all she could hear was the sound of their breathing and kissing, but nothing more. They both opened their eyes, taking a step back. Sarah licked her lips, mirroring Jareth, and both tasting blood on their lips. They both seemed to need a moment to catch their breath. Sarah realized they were no longer in the ballroom, but in Jareth's quarters. He turned to pour himself and Sarah a drink, trying to recover, acting as if kissing her was just 'for the cause'.

"Here." He said, handing her a glass. She drank it quickly, handing him the glass for more. He quickly obliged. "We have some time. What am I missing here? You speak to my cousin as if you are quite familiar with him. How is this so?" Sarah took a sip of the drink this time, and sat on a chair next to Jareth's desk. "Have a seat, this will take a moment."

So, Sarah began to tell the story of her friend Jasmine, how they met, and how she was the link in this whole ordeal. She never mentioned Stephen, nor how she was not set up on one blind date, but two. That was neither here, nor there. "I should have stayed home, blind dates never end well." She said taking another sip. "I knew they seemed very familiar. Given some time I would have guessed fae, just never related to you." Sarah rolled her eyes, fidgeting with her fingers around the glass. "From what he told me now, he didn't know I was the one he was being set up with."

Jareth looked at her, taking in her every word, looking for any signs of lies. He saw none. "I forbid you from dancing with him. I forbid you from seeing him." He stood quickly, smashing his glass into his fireplace. "You forbid me?" Sarah began quietly. "How dare you? You romp around here tonight as if I have been by your side for years, the doting wife, the one who turns a blind eye on your indiscretions, and yet I am supposed to be the turning point in this war! Yet you bring your whore here,my home Jareth! It is supposed to be my home!"

They were both quiet for a moment. "Don't defy me Sarah. You have no clue as to what is going on here. I am doing what needs to be done. Do not think it is all fun and games. Maybe I was wrong about you, maybe you should go back home. Turn back before it is too late, turn back to your blind dates, you drinking nights with the goblins, turn back to your Stephen!"

Sarah took that moment to slap him in the face. "How dare you?!" Sarah began again. "How do you even know about him? You've been watching me, haven't you?" She began pacing the room, full of rage. "Why?" She asked quietly. "WHY?!" She demanded the second time.

"You dimwitted fool." Jareth took both gloves off, and was upon her before she even knew it. Sarah stared at him with slight fear and confusion. She had never seen him with bare hands before. "Yes. Be afraid, but not of me. Never of me." With that he grabbed the side of her head, focusing on the temples, as light emitted from his hands. Quickly and quietly he began showing her images, over and over again of the times he spied on her. At first it was too fast, she began to moan and groan from the slight pain, she couldn't make the images out. After a moment, it all began to clear up.

She saw herself at work, home, shopping, cooking, at her dad's, with Stephen, parking and kissing him. Then she saw the images again, this time with Jareth's words flashing in her head. "Look to the left. No, the other corner. Look besides the building, watch the shadow. The hidden figures." Finally, she began to understand some. He was watching out for her, and jealous of seeing her with Stephen.

Jareth finally released her, hissing with a groan himself. They both dropped to the floor, but quickly helped each other up. "It's worse than we thought." She said, facing him sitting on his bed. He sat next to her, holding her hand. "I do not apologize for my action, only that I have hurt you." She nodded. "Can your cousin and brother be trusted?" Jareth looked at her with an intensity she couldn't place. "Yes. They would never betray me, not on purpose at least, but there are always ears. And Puk's loyalty, firstly, should always be to Oberon." Sarah stared at his hand, but said nothing for a moment.

"Answer me honestly," She began, not knowing how to phrase her question. "Are you still sleeping with Lady Leahnor? Or anyone else for that matter?" He turned slightly, avoiding her eyes. "I will do what needs to be done," Jareth stood over her, defying her. "Or whoever. Our union is one of duty. Nothing more. It would be good of you to remember that Sarah dear. There is no love lost between us."

Jareth began to form a crystal, and toss it in the air. He never stopped staring at her as he tossed the offending crystal. Sarah stood also, with a frightful smile, her eyes dry and almost deadly looking. "Why would I worry about that. Just remember, husband deer, that I too, am allowed to take on a consort or three or four. And our marriage only has any bearing here. Above, you are nothing to me."

She produced her own crystal ball, threw it up over herself. When it landed over her, her glamour spell took hold. She was now less dignified, looking as if she had had a thorough rumping. Her hair was now down, covering her ears, she looked flushed and content. Sarah looked sultry and confident, even though her heart was breaking. She couldn't explain that one. Her dress was ripped and skewed, but held up as much as possible. Her neck was filled with love bites, even a few on the back of her neck.

"We have been gone long enough Goblin King. Unfix yourself, and look your part." Jareth snapped his fingers, and now he too had swollen lips, his shirt untucked and his hair messy. Oh, yes, he did have a part to play, but he'd be damned if she had another to fill her bed. He walked up to her, flaunting his new look. She nodded in approval.

Suddenly, they were in the spot they left, and resumed dancing, not paying attention to the stares of some nor the applause and whistles of others. To any outsider, they were the perfect couple, a king finally finding his queen. After a couple of songs, they sat at their table, receiving bows and smiles from all they passed.

Loki stood, as Sarah was seated next to him. "Rise." Was all she said. He pulled the seat out for her, as she took the seat. "Thank you." She said. After the platters were served, Sarah realized she was very famished. Loki noticed, and called more food to be brought to them. Finally, he gained his courage. "She truly did not know." He began. "Do not treat her so, she loves you dearly. I originally invited her to meet my family on what the above call Thanksgiving. She spends that day with her family and friends. I could wait no longer, the lies were killing me." Sarah said nothing, only taking hard drinks of ale. "Give me time Loki. It's too much and too fast. Tell her I will look for her when I am ready."

Puk had asked to dance with her quite a few times, and each time she agreed. Sarah even gave in and allowed Jareth to dance a song or two with Lady Leahnor, but only after she begged enough to Sarah's satisfaction. There was a moment, when Queen Tatiana along with her dance partner, Jareth with Lady Leahnor, and Sarah with Puk in the middle of the ball awaiting the next song. Puk had dedicated it to Sarah. Jareth almost made a move to pounce on him, and only the high queen could stop him.

"Sarah, Goblin queen," Puk began. "As you must know, you are allowed to take on a male lover. I would be so grateful if you bestowed that honor up me, as your first."

Sarah was not surprised, as he had been openly making passes at her all night. Jareth on the other hand looked as if he had no problem murdering his cousin where is stood. The High King, however, appeared pleased that an outsider such as Sarah was not as prudish as he believed those above to be. It pleased him that she was embracing 'their ways' quite nicely.

"That's my girl!" The high king shouted. "Of course you may, daughter. I am sure you will never lack bedmates here, as you can see there are many eager fae dying for the chance." Queen Titiana remained ever quiet and vigilant. "Dying indeed."

Jareth could be heard under his breath.

Sarah felt all eyes on her, knowing she had to answer. Looking at Jareth with his glamour on, the fake marks on his body, and seeing the fae on his arms. She remember that this woman had left actual, real marks on Jareth's body, and how little she was to be trusted.

"We must speak of this more. In private, dear Puk. I am quite sure some…arrangements can be made. You do owe me a date, after all." Oberon smiled, patting Sarah on the back. "It's settled. Once the official marriage to Jareth has taken place, your and Puks ceremony for Puk to be formally recognized as your royal concubine. Should you choose, of course." He went up to Jareth, gave him a big hug, then went to congratulate Puk. Sarah, on the other hand, had felt sick to her bones. What had she just gotten herself into?

After two more dances with Puk and one, surprisingly with Loki, all hell broke loose.

This has been the longest! I hope you are still with me. Again, thank you all. I really wanted to get to the main conflict, and yes took the longest route possible. In my story Puk's place as Sarah's royal consort is my fancy way of saying her own personal side piece, but high ranking and in the open. If she will take him, or even have one is entirely up to her. I also wanted Oberon to treat Sarah as if she were the son he never had, proud to see she is quite popular, if you know what I mean.

Jareth is Jareth, quite cruel indeed. Again, his focus is on keeping his family and people safe. Yes, he is being an ass, but Sarah won't take it lying down. I have another chapter already in the works. I should be posting next Thursday. Read and Review.