Hey everyone! Sorry, there hasn't been an update for a while! I've struggled to write this chapter for some reason but I really hope you all enjoy it!
The next few weeks passed in a euphoric blur for both Jareth and Sarah.
They were yet to announce their engagement to the Kingdom, both of them agreeing that it wasn't exactly the right time to start speaking of royal weddings. Especially not while there were still so many struggling to survive. They did tell Aiden, however, and he had happily congratulated them both with a genuine smile on his face, despite his own struggles.
The three of them had celebrated with sparkling wine and merry music around an open fire outside in the castle gardens despite the cold weather. Even a few of the goblins had joined them at some point, though none of them knew the reasons for such a celebratory happy moment - not that they cared, of course, they were just happy to hear their King sing, and enjoy the chance to drink lots of goblin ale around a fire.
The little celebration had gone on late into the night, but it was only when all the goblins had passed out drunk that Jareth took Sarah into his arms again, dancing with her as Aiden played a gentle melody on the lute. It just happened to be the very same song that he had played at his own wedding to his dear late wife. It was a bittersweet moment for Aiden, but he tried not to dwell on his own woes. Instead, he took joy in watching Jareth and Sarah as they laughed, smiled, and danced together under the light of the moon. The love they had for each other shone brightly in their eyes as they gazed at each other.
Aiden smiled when he watched Jareth lean down to kiss her lips tenderly. He had never seen such a genuine moment between his King and a woman before. Jareth had had many women in the past, and Aiden had been privy to more than a few of those relationships, including his one with Lilium, but nothing compared to how happy Jareth was with Sarah. His smiles were a pure reflection of his happiness with her. His laughter wasn't forced like it had been in the past with his relationships with other women, and his entire being just seemed relaxed and at ease in her presence.
He noticed Sarah was the same as him. No awkwardness between them, just sincere love and joy. He found himself relishing in their happiness as if it were his own.
When the fire started to die down, and both Jareth and Sarah began winding down from their high, Aiden refilled their glasses. "I propose the last toast of the evening," He said, passing them both their crystal glasses once they'd been refilled.
Jareth raised a brow but took the glass all the same. "Be my guest."
"You two are... the most stubborn people I know. I have no doubt in my mind that you'll both drive each other mad at times; but for the most part, I cannot imagine two people more made for each other. I wish you both all the happiness that life has to offer."
Sarah laughed, stealing a quick glance up at her fiancé - who was grinning from ear-to-ear - before she looked back at Aiden, nodding to him. "Oh, thank you, Aiden."
Jareth chuckled and wrapped his arm around Sarah's shoulders, pulling her tighter against him "Yes, thank you, Aiden. You couldn't be more right. We will drive each other mad at times, of that, I have no doubt. But for the most part, I am certain that our lives together will be joyous..."
Aiden nodded to them, his broad grin never faltering. "To the two of you then! Oh, and to the future Goblin Queen!" He added, raising his glass.
"The future Goblin Queen." Jareth echoed, leaning in to press a kiss against her forehead before he took a drink.
Sarah blushed but nodded her head in gratitude before drinking her wine. Within her chest, her heart skipped a beat.
She was going to be Goblin Queen...
It wasn't long before Sarah had all of her personal belongings moved from her own chambers into Jareth's, earning more than a few confused and suspicious looks from the goblins involved in helping. Though, they never voiced their opinions on the uncertain relationship between Sarah the human servant, and their King. Although, Sarah had heard a few of them refer to her as his 'new mistress' when they thought she wasn't listening.
Sarah would have been offended, but she realized It was only normal that they'd be thinking such things. Especially since those poor creatures had entered Jareth's chambers only last morning to find herself and Jareth both naked in bed together.
Sarah had blushed a deep shade of red before she buried her head under the pillows, hiding away from their wide eyes. Jareth, however, had sat there with the blankets hanging low on his hips, and an amused smirk turning up his thin lips.
When the goblin's left, she had sat up and smacked him over the head with the pillow, yelling at him about how embarrassed she was that he hadn't even warned her that they were coming to bring them both a cup of tea. Jareth had only grinned, even more, amused by his lover's shyness. He would never tire of teasing her, or of testing her patience with him.
As time went on, the rations in the castle became stricter with each passing day. Jareth did his best not to stress about the situation. He trusted in the prophecy and he trusted in Sarah. Though he was always careful not to mention it too much to her; he didn't want her to feel responsible for everything. He'd lived with that burden himself, and it had almost killed him having such a heavyweight on his shoulders. He was not about to put the same stress on her.
And so, he continued to believe in his precious Sarah and all that she would bring about, in the silence of his mind.
She would set things straight when the time was right, he knew she would.
Aiden had told him he was being a little foolish for being so trusting in something that was yet to show any signs of occurring. Yes, he too had high hopes for the future Jareth had foreseen at Sarah's hand, but Aiden knew it wasn't wise to place so much trust and hope in one person. After all, it was still possible that the prophecy was nothing more than a myth, written thousands of years ago.
But Jareth never gave up the hope he placed in his lover.
For if he did, then what would happen? Would those feelings of hopelessness consume his again?
Nothing was certain, but living with hope was better than living in fear.
In the second week of November, Sarah seemed to make the first step towards Jareth's optimistic hopes and expectations.
It was a crisp yet sunny afternoon. She had been wandering around the Goblin City with Hoggle, delivering leftover soup from the castle kitchens to the families in the village. It was something Sarah had expressed a desire to do, and Jareth had been only too happy to allow her to go around delivering the unfortunate creatures whatever they could spare. Providing, of course, that Sarah had some sort of company with her, allowing her protection from anything or anyone who might want to harm her.
Sarah had no idea why Jareth was suddenly so concerned about that, but she decided to let it drop and allow him the comfort of knowing that she had somebody with her. Besides, it was much more enjoyable to have company while doing these sorts of things.
Walking through the ruined city, Sarah was surprised by the number of chickens wandering the streets, clucking and pecking at the sandy ground, searching for worms or anything else they could eat.
With a sigh, Sarah shook her head and walked past a crowd of scrawny black chickens all fighting over a tiny bug.
"You know, I still don't get why Jareth doesn't make the goblins eat their chickens... a lot of lives could have been saved if they ate them." She said, watching with a smirk as the little bug managed to escape the chickens.
Hoggle shrugged, nudging a particularly plump hen out of the way with his foot, grumbling as it clucked loudly and flapped its wings, dark feathers flying everywhere. "They'd rather die than eat 'em." He explained simply.
"I know, and I understand... but at the same time, isn't it worse to watch their loved ones starve? The fact that they'd rather their chickens survived makes no logical sense."
"They's be goblins, Sarah. Did ya really expect 'em to be logical?" Hoggle asked, obviously amused.
Sarah chuckled, shaking her head. "No, I guess not. Although, some of the goblins working in the castle are more intelligent. Some of the staff are so kind and sweet." She said with a smile, thinking of Patty in particular.
Hoggle scoffed, rolling his eyes as he kicked away yet another chicken. "I's believe it when I's meet's it."
They walked through the city, delivering small amounts of soup to as many homes as they could on such a small ration. When the bowl of soup was almost empty, Sarah made one last stop. There was just enough soup left for one more individual.
Sarah knocked gently on the small wooden door, waiting a while for someone to answer.
Just when she and Hoggle came to the conclusion that nobody was home, the doorknob turned.
A very thin and rather frail goblin opened the door with a shaking hand. His skin was green, and he had a very distinct long nose. He wore old rusty armor that looked as if he hadn't taken it off in a few decades, at least.
He raised a bushy brow when he saw the human standing at his front door with the dwarf he'd often seen in the tavern when times had been easier. "What do'ya want?" He asked, not trying in the slightest to be friendly.
Sarah was grieved to see how much this poor creature was suffering, but she forced herself to smile warmly at him. "I -erm- hi! I've come to bring you a little bit of soup from the castle kitchens. It was made fresh this morning."
The goblin managed a weak nod and he moved aside, the sound of his old armor creaking as he moved. It was a little eerie, especially with that grumpy expression he wore on his weatherworn face.
Sarah smiled politely, ducking down as she entered through the small front door. Hoggle followed close behind her, watching the goblin with narrowed eyes.
Once inside, Sarah struggled to see what she was doing. It was beyond dark, all the shutters and doors had been tightly closed. Perhaps to remove the draft, or maybe this goblin just really liked the dark.
Another thing she noticed upon entering was the odd lingering smell of damp, ale, and piss. All that mixed in with the random cluck of a chicken from somewhere in the darkened room was enough to make her want to flee just as soon as she possibly could.
"Could be worse, I guess... it could smell like the bog." She mused to herself. "Although, it's not far from it!"
Deciding she wanted to leave as soon as possible, Sarah set her basket down on the old table, pulling back the cloth she used to keep the food inside warm.
She lifted off the lid from the large serving dish, and grabbed the ladle she'd brought along with her, dishing some of the soup out into a pot. From the corner of her eye, Sarah could just make out the creature who lingered in the shadows, watching her intently.
"Well, here you go. I'm sorry it's not much, but hopefully, this will keep you going for a little while." She said, holding out the little pot towards him.
The goblin limped over, taking the pot of soup from her. He lifted it to his nose, sniffing the contents suspiciously.
When he'd been silent for a few moments, Sarah turned and began packing up her things into the basket again.
She almost jumped out of her skin when he spoke, his voice holding a little less anger in it this time. "Kingy is good to us." He said, lifting the pot to his lips with his shaking hands.
Sarah managed a weak smile as she picked up her basket from the table. "Yes, he is, indeed. I wish you the best of luck, sir, but I should be on my way now." She said, looking to Hoggle, who hung around at the other end of the room, waiting for her patiently.
She nodded to him, her signal for him to open the door for them to leave through.
Hoggle nodded back to her and headed for the front door, only to stumble and trip, falling onto the ground with a loud cry, followed by the manic clucking of a chicken.
Sarah gasped in shock at what had just happened. Putting down her basket, she rushed to his side, though carefully so not to trip over as well.
"Hoggle, what happened? Are you hurt?" She asked concern evident in her voice as she took his arm and helped him to stand once more.
"Damn chicken!" He grumbled, brushing the dust off his trousers. "I'm fine, just a little dusty." He assured her, his tone sharp and irritated when he noticed he'd got chicken shit on his trousers.
Sarah sighed with relief, gently rubbing his shoulder. She flinched away when he shrugged her arm off in his temper. Apparently, Hoggle did not like getting chicken shit on his clothes.
She couldn't blame him, really.
With a heavy sigh, Sarah got to her feet once more. She glanced down at the chicken, who sat in the middle of the room on a cushion as if nothing had happened.
"Go on, get outta here!" Hoggle grumbled, shooing away the chicken, much to the horror of the Goblin who stood behind them.
The chicken flapped and got up, clucking and pecking around for any crumbs. But it was what sat on top of the cushion that caught Sarah's attention.
Eggs.
Sarah gasped, covering her mouth with her hand. "Oh, my god... Why didn't we think of that?" She exclaimed, ecstatically.
Hoggle looked down at the eggs on the cushion in confusion, rubbing his chin as if trying to fathom what on earth she could be so excited about. "What abouts it?" He asked.
Sarah looked to Hoggle and blinked a few times. "Don't you eat eggs here?" she asked, furrowing her brow in confusion.
The goblin behind her gasped, shocked, and appalled to hear her even suggest such an outrageous thing.
Hoggle quickly grabbed Sarah's arm when he watched the confusion dance across her face. Sometimes he forgot that Sarah was still new to this world, and still so unaware of how things worked.
He pulled her to the side of the room for a moment. "We don't eats 'em, Sarah! It's seen as a terrible offense to eat a chicken's egg!" He said in a hushed, yet hurried tone, his blue eyes wide.
"But Hoggle, this is the answer to saving everyone! This is it! The answer we've been searching for!" She continued, excited for the discovery she'd made while not even trying. "I know it will take a lot more than a few eggs to save this Kingdom, but it's a good start, isn't it? And why on earth is it seen as such a crime to eat them?" She asked, with a deep frown.
Hoggle looked a little apprehensive but nodded after a few moments. "I's never seen the issue in eatin' 'em myself, but the goblins will freak out when they find out ya's even suggesting it! Goblin's think chickens are sacred - to be worshiped!" He continued, "Their eggs ain't no less sacred."
"Hmm..." Sarah rested her hand on her chin for a moment, deep in thought. Then suddenly, an idea sprang to her mind.
A broad grin turned up her lips and she moved back into the kitchen, even as Hoggle called after her, trying to stop her from making such a massive mistake.
She ignored him.
When Sarah was once again faced with the thin goblin, he scowled at her. Reaching down on shaky legs, he grabbed his chicken and held it protectively against his chest."You get outta my house! You disresp-disresp..." he fumbled with his words, and then cleared his throat, "hurt lady quick-shite!" He cried angrily, grasping the chicken with all his might under his arm, even as it clucked and flapped its wings, trying to get away.
Sarah tried very hard not to burst out laughing when he told her that unfortunate creature's name.
Seriously, what sort of name was Lady Quick-Shite?
"Listen, please, we didn't mean to hurt, erm, Lady Quick-Shite." She explained, holding back a laugh before clearing her throat and continuing. "But I have to tell you that you've got it all wrong... you see, it's disrespectful to not eat a chicken's egg."
The goblin blinked, staring at her with an alarmed expression on his face. "It is?" He asked, his tone of voice holding such fear that Sarah almost felt bad for making up all this stuff.
Almost.
"Yeah... you see, chickens are very special, very sacred creatures," She took extra time to exaggerate every word, pleased when the goblin actually seemed to be agreeing with her, nodding his head enthusiastically as she spoke. "And in payment for us taking care of them, and treating them with the highest respect possible, they lay eggs for us to eat. The eggs are so good for us, and they keep us full for a long time. You see, it's their gift to us. And who are we to turn down such...almighty creatures gifts?"
Hoggle watched Sarah in disbelief. How was it possible she was actually convincing a goblin to eat eggs? For as long as he could remember, it had been outlawed to eat eggs! If Sarah actually managed to pull this off, she deserved a medal!
"Does ya have proof of this?" The goblin asked after a few moments, suddenly clutching his chicken tighter again, its eyes almost popping out of its sockets.
"I erm-absolutely!" She said, with a nervous laugh. "The vaults."
The goblin's brows rose in interest, and he carefully let the chicken down, moving to stand closer in front of her.
"I've seen it." She whispered, looking both ways as if to make sure nobody else was listening, all another part of the act she was putting on.
The goblin frowned, blinking a few times. "Ya seen what?" He asked, almost stumbling when Sarah let out an exaggerated gasp. "Why, the document! The document from the book of the sacred chicken! The one that tells us exactly how bad it is to refuse the gift of eggs from them!" Sarah continued, pleased when the goblin worried his lip, his eyes searching hers as he if he were desperate to see the things she had supposedly 'seen.'
"You see, the book was destroyed years ago... but somehow, the document survived. It's been kept in the depths of the castle vaults for thousands of years. Why do you think so much unfortunate stuff has happened in this Kingdom over the last few years? The chickens have finally had enough. They've had enough of us denying their generosity." She continued, watching the guilt sweep across the Goblin's face.
"We must make it known, that from this day forward, we shall never anger the sacred chickens ever again." She went on, getting far too into this role she'd taken to convince him.
"What can we do?" He asked, flustered and ashamed of himself for all the years he'd been mistaken in his beliefs that eggs weren't to be consumed.
Sarah gently placed her hand on his shoulder, a comforting gesture to make him feel better. She had to admit, she felt a little bad for making up all of this, but it was more important that they survived. "We must gather all the eggs we can find and take them to the castle. We shall have a celebratory feast!"
The goblin nodded his head, a wide smile that showed all his missing teeth, turned up the corners of his mouth. Then he began rushing about the room, grabbing all the eggs hidden in every nook and cranny in his home.
Sarah beamed at Hoggle from over her shoulder. "See!" She grinned. "I must go and tell Jareth! Hoggle, would you be so kind and help to spread this news around the village?"
Hoggle approached her, a reluctant smile tugging at his lips. "You's go'n tell the rat and I'll get to gathering all 'em eggs n' spreading the news." He said, grabbing her basket from the table and leaning down to pick up the eggs from the pillow the chicken had been resting on earlier.
Sarah smiled down at her friend. She was so grateful to him and he'd probably never know how much she cared for him.
"Thank you, Hoggle... You'll come to the feast, won't you? Invite Ludo and Didymus too."
Hoggle nodded, smiling. "Yeah, yeah, I will. Now go! See ya later, Sarah."
Sarah waved to Hoggle, then bolted from the house, running all the way through the goblin city, back towards the castle.
Sarah was panting for breath when she entered the throne room and found Jareth talking with Aiden about something, but she was too far away to hear what it was exactly.
She noticed there were a few Goblins drinking and chatting away, hanging around in the sunken circle in the middle of the throne room.
Her breathless panting caught Jareth's attention immediately, and he and Aiden quickly turned to look at her, brows raised in concern. "Sarah, is everything alright?" Jareth asked her, concern shining in his eyes.
Sarah nodded, bending over to rest her hands on her knees while she tried to catch her breath. "Eggs." she managed, panting heavily.
Jareth frowned, approaching her and gently guiding her up to his throne so that she could sit and catch her breath. When she was seated, Jareth knelt at her feet, gazing up into her flushed face with concern. "What are you talking about? And why are you so out of breath?"
Aiden raised a brow at the mention of eggs, and he lifted a hand, dismissing every goblin from the room and using magic to close the door once they'd passed through it.
When Aiden was sure they'd all left, he conjured some water and handed Sarah. She took it, drinking it eagerly. "Thank you, Aiden." She said, wiping her mouth with the back of her hand before passing him back the empty glass.
Jareth gently rubbed her knee in a comforting manner, trying to calm her down enough to speak. "Now, if you're feeling like you have a little more air in your lungs; do tell me what's going on, precious."
Sarah took a deep breath. "Okay... so I was taking some of the leftover soup to the goblins in the city with Hoggle - as you said I could," she reminded him, watching as he nodded. "We went into one of the goblin's houses and found chickens laying eggs. Now, I know that goblins have this- this stupid rule about not eating eggs or chickens, but I've managed to convince them that it's disrespectful to not eat their eggs!" She blurted out all at once, stumbling on her words every so often.
Jareth chuckled, amusement shining in his eyes. "Sarah, Sarah, you are full of surprises. How on earth did you manage such a thing? Do you even know how often I've tried to get them to eat eggs? The bloody creatures almost started a revolution last time I mentioned it!"
"I had to make up a few little white lies..." She confessed, smirking a little."Let's just say, they fell for it. They're gathering up eggs as we speak!"
Aiden threw his head back and laughed. "My goodness, Jareth, you seem to have chosen the perfect bride for yourself! Can you believe she's managed to get through to those damn creatures?"
Jareth smiled proudly up at his fiancée, his pale eyes sparkling with pride and amusement. "Absolutely. Sarah possesses certain magic with my subjects... one like no other I have ever seen." He said, lifting her hand to his lips and gently pressing a lingering kiss to the back of it.
Sarah blushed a little at his words. "Oh, you're just saying that to tease me."
Jareth smirked, shaking his head. "Not at all, love. I am being completely honest in my statement."
"There's just one thing I need you to do for me," She said.
"Name it."
"I need you to write up a statement or something, about how it is a sin to not eat eggs. Make it look old, authentic, and believable to goblins. They haven't asked to see it yet, but I believe at least one of them will demand to see proof of this odd document at some point."
Jareth chuckled, nodding in agreement. "Very well, I shall conjure one up with magic or something."
Sarah let out a shaky sigh, suddenly feeling exhausted from all that running she'd done today. "Thank you." she yawned, resting her head back against his throne.
"No, precious... thank you," Jareth whispered, gently kissing her hand again, almost worshipful towards the woman he was lucky enough to call his fiancée.
Aiden beamed at her proudly. "Yes, thank you, Sarah... and well done."
And so, that evening, there was a feast in the castle. A feast of eggs, cooked in all different manner of ways, thanks to Sarah's egg cooking knowledge.
Every citizen in the kingdom was invited. Goblins, elves, trolls, and even a rare few fae that lived in the goblin kingdom attended for the big celebration. Ale was flowing, and every goblin ate as many eggs as they wanted. Thanks to the number of chickens in the Kingdom, there was an abundance of eggs, so there was more than enough to go around.
At the head on the table, Jareth sat with Sarah. None of the Goblins had even blinked an eye at the fact that she was sat in pride of place at the King's side. They believed she deserved the honor of sitting with him after the discovery she'd made today.
Jareth watched as the sea of creatures ate at the long dining table, chatting, laughing, and drinking together as they hadn't done in so long.
His smile broadened as a couple of goblins stood up on the table, raising their wooden mugs up in the air and singing a song about chickens and their generosity.
Sarah laughed beside him, watching as others around the table joined in with the song, and soon the room was filled with song and cheers.
Even Hoggle, Ludo, and Didymus joined in, their voices raised cheerfully in song.
When the song finally finished, Jareth arose from his chair and clapped his hands, gaining the attention of everybody in the room. "Thank you to everybody for attending our feast! The celebrations will continue on into the night, so be merry, and drink until your hearts are content!"
More cheers and claps went up around the room, that is, until Jareth raised a hand, silencing them once again.
"Ah, but first, I think it is only right that we all raise a glass to the one who made all this possible. To the woman who found that document in the vaults of the castle, Sarah Williams! Without her, we would all be doomed to starve!" He cheered, lifting his glass up into the air, and watching as his beautiful lover blushed and hid her face in her hands, even as all the creatures in the room drank to her health and cheered her name.
On the opposite end of the table, Sarah saw Hoggle, Ludo, and Didymus beaming proudly at her.
When Jareth was seated beside her once more, she leaned in close to him, whispering in his ear. "I can't believe you just did that, you glittery git."
Jareth chuckled softly, once again finding amusement in his fiancée's bashfulness. "Why wouldn't I? You deserve credit for what you've managed to do... you have saved their lives today, Sarah. Besides, you need to get used to the attention, you will soon be Queen, after all." He purred in her ear, caressing her thigh under the table, his touch feather-light, but enough to stir familiar feelings within her. He was pleased to see her visibly shiver at his touch.
"Hmm... I suppose you're right..." She smiled, reaching up to gently caress his cheek. "You are a terrible tease, sire... I'm sure you wouldn't enjoy it if I were to touch you in such a way while amongst all of your subjects?" She whispered in a husky voice, her lips so close to his ear that a shiver worked its way down his spine.
"Now who's the tease, precious..." He replied, gazing at her with dilated pupils and slightly parted lips.
Sarah smirked, letting her hand fall from his cheek, down his chest and lower until she traced her fingers gently over the bulge in his trousers, hidden from view by only the table.
She was pleased when his eyes fluttered, his chest heaving as he fought to control himself.
"Minx..." he whispered, watching as she bit her lower lip, caressing him just once more before she rose from her seat, winking at him before leaving the room.
Jareth watched after her, both stunned and aroused by what she had just done. He wanted to go after her, but would it really be proper if he left during a feast?
Aiden, who sat just a few places away from him, cleared his throat, gaining Jareth's attention.
Aiden raised his brows, nodding his head towards the door of which Sarah had just walked through.
Jareth frowned in confusion.
Aiden rolled his eyes and stood, walking over and taking the seat beside him. "Well, what are you waiting for, sire? Go to her."
Jareth blinked; surprised that Aiden was encouraging him to go after Sarah. Normally Aiden was the responsible one out of the two of them; he was usually the one who told me him to put Kingdom first and his personal affairs second.
"I want too, but I can't just leave during a feast." He said, lifting his goblet to his lips and taking a long drink to try and distract himself from the lingering images of Sarah.
"Why not? I'm here, aren't I? I can watch over things and if you're needed, I'll call you back."
Jareth gazed at his adviser, surprised that he was offering to take over for a while so he could go and be intimate with his fiancée.
"You're being very generous, Aiden... why?" He asked, raising an elegant brow. There had to be a catch somewhere.
Aiden chuckled, shaking his head. "I'm just looking out for you. These last few weeks I've seen how happy you've been with Sarah, and it makes me glad... if I had a fiancée, I'd like to think you'd do the same for me."
Jareth smiled, gently placing a gloved hand on Aiden's shoulder. "You can be certain that I will return the favor should a moment like this occur for you."
Aiden grinned, chuckling softly. "Then what are you waiting for?"
Jareth gave his advisers shoulder a squeeze. He quickly finished his wine before he stood, leaving the room without even glancing back. The goblins didn't even notice his absence. Most of them were far too drunk and merry to pay attention to anything other than the ale they drank or the songs they sang about their beloved chickens.
Aiden chuckled to himself and rested back into his chair, a goblet of mead in hand, and the fond memory of a beautiful face haunting his thoughts even at such a celebratory moment.
Across the table, Hoggle frowned into his wooden mug. He had seen the very intimate display of affection between his best friend and his King, and he wasn't certain what to make of it.
He'd known for a while that Sarah had feelings for Jareth, but could that rat really feel anything other than lust for her?
Lifting his mug to his lips, he drank deeply. Maybe it was time he confronted them about what on earth was going on.
Sarah was leaning with her elbows against the window sill when she felt the soft touch of leather on her hips and the familiar hardness of him pressing against her ass.
She sighed and gyrated herself back against him, a proud smirk turning up her lips when she heard his sharp intake of breath.
"Enjoying the view, precious?" He asked in his sexy British accent that always made her want him even more.
"Mm-hmm..." She shivered when she felt him run a hand up her back. "You left the feast, I see."
He chuckled low in his throat and leaned over her, whispering in her ear. "I did... You couldn't expect me to not follow you when you were practically inviting me to fuck you." He twirled his fingers in her hair and lightly pulled it back, not enough to hurt, but just enough to encourage her to bare her neck for him.
She shivered as he pressed a lingering kiss to the corner of her neck, his fingers still tangled in her hair even as he pressed against her again, letting her feel just how hard and ready he was for her.
The soft moan that slipped past her lips only spurred him on more. He sucked and kissed her neck for a while before pulling back and straightening again.
The heat of his hand against her back was the only thing stopping her from turning towards him, and when she tried, he protested.
"No, precious..." he purred when she once again tried to adjust their position. "I want to take you like this tonight..." He ran his hand up her back again, his fingers fiddling with the ties that kept her corset together. "That is if you don't mind?" He added, softly.
Sarah's heart only skipped more at his request. As sexy as it was when he took charge, she couldn't deny how much she loved it when he asked her permission first. She was still new to all this sexual stuff, so when he checked with her first, making sure she was comfortable with what they were about to do, it only made her love him more.
"Yes," she whispered, her voice husky with desire. "please..."
Jareth chuckled softly. "Please? Are you already so desperate for me to take you, my love?"
"Yes." She confessed, feeling no shame in admitting how much she needed him right now.
She knew Jareth enjoyed her confession because she felt his cock twitch and grow harder against her.
He took no time in waiting, and only a few seconds later, Sarah felt the cool air against her bare legs as he hitched up her skirt, bunching it up over her butt.
She bit her lip to keep herself from moaning when he caressed her buttocks with his soft gloved hand. "You have bewitched me, Sarah..." He whispered as he waved a hand, removing her panties with the help of magic. Sarah briefly wondered why he hadn't just removed all of her clothes. Perhaps it was because they weren't even in their chambers, but in the dark empty hall by the window.
"Jareth," she panted, trembling when she felt his fingers brush against her core. She tried to ignore the soft growl that rumbled in his chest at the feeling of her wetness on his fingers. "Shouldn't we go to our chambers? I'd be mortified if anybody came by and saw us..."
"Nobody's coming; they're all at the feast. And besides, nobody really walks through these halls..." He assured her, gently gripping her hip with one hand while he pressed a long gloved finger inside of her at the same time.
Sarah gasped, tilting her head back as he inserted a second. "You are so wet for me..." He whispered as he began thrusting his fingers slowly inside her.
Sarah almost lost her ability to stand when he suddenly withdrew his fingers again, leaving her feeling empty and far too desperate for the return of them inside her.
She barely had a moment to voice her disappointment, for only seconds later she felt him press his cock against her, pushing just the tip inside, and then pulling out and doing it again.
She actually whimpered when he pulled out a third time. She could not take this kind of torture today, she needed him and she needed him now.
"Oh my god, please just fuck me." She choked out.
Jareth grinned. "As my fiancée demands." He whispered, and then began to fill her slowly, one inch at a time, really letting her feel his impressive size. It was only when Sarah arched her back, that Jareth finally sheathed himself fully within her.
She cried out her pleasure but took a few moments to get used to the feeling. They'd never had sex like this before, and it was a completely different experience from the other positions they'd tried.
She felt full. Very full. If it was even possible, he felt bigger in this position.
Jareth waited only a few short moments before he started to move inside her, taking it slow while she adjusted to him.
His breath rushed out of him each time he moved his hips against hers. Everything about Sarah felt amazing and in this position. He knew he couldn't last long. Everything from the soft moans slipping past her lips, to the tightness of her passage squeezing him as he moved within her; he knew he'd be completely undone, and much sooner than he wanted to be.
He groaned when Sarah pressed her ass back against him, her soft moans of pleasure echoing around them in the long empty hall.
Gripping her hips, he began to move faster.
Sarah gasped and grabbed onto the window sill to keep herself from collapsing. For some reason, her legs felt weak and shaky. She was sure it was just from having sex like this, but still, found herself struggling to stand. She was more than grateful when she felt Jareth's strong arms wrap around her waist, supporting her weight and pulling her firmly back against him.
"My champion... what a blessing you are to not only me but to the entire Kingdom." He whispered, his voice strained as he felt the climb towards his climax. "If I could spend my every living second at your side, I would..."
The erratic pound of his heartbeat against her back seemed to match the speed of her own, and she tilted her head back to rest against his shoulder, a soft sigh slipping past her parted lips as he sucked and kissed the crook of her neck, the feeling of his warm breath against her neck sent shivers down her spine, but it was the warmth of his palm, not on her breast, but over her heart - that sent her over the edge.
Jareth held her firmly against him, keeping her from falling as she squirmed against him, his name falling repeatedly from her lips even as she felt him empty himself within her, the sound of his deep cry barely reaching her ears.
A few moments later, Jareth pulled out and carefully adjusted their clothing before he turned her towards him, leaning down to press a passionate kiss to her lips that was sure to leave her head spinning.
"I love you." He whispered, still breathless from their lovemaking.
"I love you too." She said, a wide smile spreading across her face when it finally dawned on her that they'd just fucked in the middle of the hallway.
Amusement shone in her fiancé's eyes as if he were reading her very thoughts. Pulling her into his arms, he hugged her tightly, chuckling softly as she buried her face in his chest. "I don't know about you, precious, but I think we should have sex like that more often."
"You won't find me complaining about that." She chuckled, still slightly hazy after their physical activity.
Hoggle couldn't quite believe the sight the met him in the middle of the hall. Both Jareth and Sarah were sat on the floor with their backs against the stone wall. Sarah's dress was a tangled mess around hers and Jareth's legs. Both of them appeared to be very disheveled, and very flushed. Hoggle didn't have to be smart to work out what had happened between them.
At first, he considered rushing away, but ultimately decided it was better to confront them and try to find out what the hell was going on.
He wanted to throw up as he watched his best friend trace lazy circles on Jareth's exposed chest, but he actually gagged when he watched Jareth slip two fingers between her lips, that wicked grin which showed each one of his sharp pointed teeth spread across his face as he watched her suck them, her eyes falling closed as if she were very much enjoying it.
However, the sound of Hoggle's exaggerated gagging caught both of their attention. They glanced towards him; their eyes wide with a 'deer caught in the headlights' expression on their faces.
"Hoggle?!" Jareth snapped, his expression changing from shocked to absolutely fuming in a matter of seconds. "What in god's name is the meaning of this?"
Hoggle folded his arms, glaring down at them both with a displeased eye. "Shouldn't it be me askin' that?" He replied. "I's had enough of bein' kept in the dark, Sarah! I thoughts we were friends!"
Sarah swallowed hard. Suddenly she felt very guilty for not telling Hoggle about her relationship and engagement to Jareth. He was one of her best friends; didn't he deserve to know what was going on in her life?
Standing up, she approached him. "Hoggle, of course, we're friends...I just didn't want to tell you because... well, I know you don't particularly like Jareth..."
"I don't particularly like him that much, either." Jareth retorted from behind her.
Sighing, Sarah knelt in front of Hoggle. When she spoke, she noticed how he awkwardly refused to meet her gaze. He was probably embarrassed to have witnessed herself and Jareth in quite a heated moment. "Hoggle, please try to understand," she pleaded, "You are my friend and I realize it was wrong for me to keep my engagement to Jareth from you-"
"Your engagement?!" Hoggle's eyes widened. He knew that Sarah and Jareth obviously shared a physical relationship, but being engaged was quite another matter. "Ya can't be- ya can't be marryin' him!"
Jareth glared down at Hoggle. Why on earth was this bloody dwarf even in this part of the castle? Wasn't he meant to be at the feast? He certainly hadn't permitted Hoggle to wander all around the castle freely. If he had, he'd have never fucked Sarah in the hall.
"I am," Sarah replied, simply but firmly. "I love him and we're engaged to be married."
Hoggle swallowed hard, shaking his head in disbelief. This was a LOT to take in in one evening. As if it hadn't been bad enough to see them teasing each other, but knowing they were engaged to be married, that was even harder to think about than the image of Sarah sucking Jareth's fingers!
"I hope," Sarah started; gently taking Hoggle's hand in her own, then she turned and reached for Jareth's hand as well. "that you two can try to move past whatever quarrels you've had in the past. Deep down I don't believe you both hate each other as much as you make out." She said, smirking knowingly between Hoggle and Jareth.
"That's not true!" They said in sync.
Sarah chuckled softly. "Come on... even if you do hate each other, please try to be civil. Hoggle, Jareth is my fiancé and I ask that you respect him and my decision to be with him. And, in return, Jareth, I hope that you will respect that Hoggle is my friend and I hope that you will treat him nicely?"
Jareth and Hoggle exchanged glances, and then, with a heavy sigh, Jareth nodded. "Very well, darling... I can't promise to be best friends with him, but I can promise to try and keep a respectful peace between us."
Sarah beamed up at him.
"Just for you, I'll try." He added.
"Thank you, Jareth. You know how much it means to me." She said, rising from her knees to gently wrap her arms around his waist. Once Sarah released him again, she glanced down at Hoggle, who was anxiously twisting his shirt in his hands.
Was it true? Did he actually hate Jareth? He pondered the question for a few moments and came to the realization that he actually didn't hate him, he just disliked him. But surely, if Sarah loved him like she obviously did, there had to be good inside him.
He just hoped that was true and that his best friend wouldn't end up getting her heartbroken.
Grumbling, Hoggle folded his arms. "Fine! I'll try to as well." He said, gruffly.
Sarah beamed down at her old friend. "Oh, thank you, Hoggle!" She leaned down and pulled him into a reluctant hug, smirking as he squirmed and tried to pull away from her.
Hadn't he made it obvious he hated hugs?
November went on, and with it came heavy amounts of snow. Sarah loved it and often spent hours playing in it with Hoggle, Ludo, and Didymus. Often Aiden and Adelaide would join them, and they'd all have a wonderful time making snowmen and playing snowball fights. All in all, things just got better.
The chickens were all very well looked after, and they laid plenty of eggs every day, keeping the Kingdom fed.
Sarah had to admit that she did get a little sick of eggs, but she also understood that it was all they had and she was still incredibly grateful to have them to eat.
Just as Sarah had predicted, the goblins did eventually ask to see the document about 'the sacred chicken' and they'd all been absolutely amazed when they saw it for the first time. Some of them had bowed to it, others had prayed to it, and in the end, Jareth had framed it and hung it up in the little church near the goblin city, so that they had a proper place to worship the ridiculous document he'd made with his magic.
What gullible creatures they were.
Sarah had been pleasantly surprised to find goblins drawing sketches of her and hanging them around the village, making it known to all that it was thanks to her they were alive, and finally appreciating the gifts they're sacred chickens were giving them every day.
It was hilarious, really. But Sarah still felt quite proud of herself for what she'd accomplished. All the goblins loved her, and more than a few of them demanded that she be there Queen.
Jareth had only smirked at their request. A small part of him wanted to announce that that was exactly what Sarah would be, but another part of him knew that everything had to be done at the right time. Announcing his engagement to Sarah would probably be overwhelming for her, and he wanted her to enjoy the next few months with him quietly before they announced their engagement in the spring and got married sometime in the late summer months.
So for now, their engagement was still a secret. Known only by Aiden and Hoggle. Then soon Ludo and Sir. Didymus, who'd been much happier to hear her news than Hoggle had been.
Sir. Didymus was fond of Jareth, and Ludo was too thick to ever have much of an opinion on him, so he was just happy to know that Sarah would be forever staying in the Underground.
To celebrate, they'd all spent the day together, drinking hot mead after taking a long walk in the snow-covered gardens.
Jareth continued his nightly flights to the Labyrinth. Sometimes the power radiating from the Labyrinth would drain him, and he'd end up sleeping for far longer than he usually would. But as time went on, Jareth's magic strengthened, and soon, his connection to the unpredictable maze improved. It still wasn't moving at his command, but it allowed him to touch it, and move his magic through the stone, weaving his magic with the magic from the Labyrinth itself.
It was a wonderful feeling, and Jareth found himself excited for every new day that came.
And he owed it all to Sarah.
Was it possible to fall more deeply in love with somebody as each day passed? Because that's how it felt every morning that he awoke with Sarah in his arms.
She filled his heart with song.
Literally.
Sarah had noticed how much more Jareth was singing, and it made her glad. There was something about his voice that was just so perfect. The goblins loved it, too. Often they gathered around him and danced while he sang. And Sarah would watch with a smile on her face as she caught him joining in and dancing with them as well. Whether or not he knew she was watching, remained to be seen. But if he did know, he certainly didn't make it obvious, but he always put on a great show even without knowing his precious was watching.
Sarah continued her chores in the castle, much to Jareth's dismay. He wanted her to take it easier and enjoy herself more, but the truth was, she had actually did enjoy her chores, now. It was the way she'd been living since she'd first moved to the Underground and to cut that out of her life so quickly wouldn't be easy.
She knew that when they did announce their engagement, she'd have to stop. So for now, she was just enjoying the little chores he asked her to do. No longer was she made to scrub floors on her hands on knees, or clean out the stables - a job she actually missed doing because of her closeness to Shadow and Spirit - but instead, she did little jobs, like dusting away cobwebs, washing dishes, sweeping floors and delivering meals to her future husband, who worked in his study until late most nights.
He'd neglected his work a lot since he'd been engaged to Sarah but now he realized it was time he got on top of it all.
It was hard to not spend as much time together. They missed each other constantly when they weren't together. But in the evenings they'd make up for the lost time.
They'd eat, bathe and talk by the fire for many hours before they'd fall asleep and start the cycle again the next day.
It was a passionate, yet comfortable relationship they shared.
Things around them weren't perfect, but they were happy.
December 12th
Sarah had been busy today.
Herself and Jareth had risen from bed much earlier than they usually did. They'd wanted to spend a bit more time together today, especially since they'd both been so tired last night, they'd barely had the chance to talk before they'd both fallen asleep on the couch by the fire.
This morning they'd decided to not just talk in their chambers like they usually did, but decided to do something a little more fun.
Go for an early morning ride on Spirit and Shadow.
They'd trotted alongside each other, chatting and updating the other on any news they had for a few minutes. But soon, their competitive streak overtook them, and they had a race together.
Jareth was convinced that he'd won the race, but Sarah refused to admit it. She was not about to boost his ego anymore. So in the end, they'd both settled on it being a draw between them both.
Though Jareth secretly congratulated himself on his win.
When they returned home from the castle, Jareth disappeared back into his study with Aiden. He had a few things he needed to study, and Sarah had a couple of chores she needed to get done.
So they'd kissed and arranged to spend more time together over dinner later tonight.
It was 6:30 when Jareth and Aiden finally finished their research. They were both exhausted and in great need of a drink when they finally emerged from the room.
"You look exhausted," Sarah stated, gently resting her head against Jareth's shoulder as he wrapped his arm around her.
"I am. We both are. Aiden and I have been very busy doing research on a few things." He told her, pressing a kiss to her head.
"What things?" Sarah asked, curiously.
"Researching things about The Labyrinth and The Prophecy, that's all."
"Did you find out anything interesting?" She asked, looking between Jareth and Aiden.
"Nothing we didn't already know," Aiden explained, sighing. "We're going to try a different book tomorrow."
"For now, though, precious, let us go and eat. I'm quite famished." Jareth said.
"Yes, alright. I'm quite hungry myself...Aiden, will you join us?" Sarah offered, watching as Aiden smiled but shook his head.
"Thank you, Sarah, but I've already promised to eat with Adelaide before she goes to bed. It's been a while since I spent quality time with her." He said, politely declining the invitation to join them.
"Of course. Have a nice evening, Aiden." Sarah said, gently taking Jareth's hand.
"Yes, good night Aiden. See you tomorrow." Jareth echoed, nodding to his friend/adviser.
"Until tomorrow," Aiden said, smiling and bowing before turning and walking away.
"Looks like it'll just be us, precious," Jareth whispered, gently wrapping his arms around her waist and pulling her to him.
Sarah smiled and allowed him to press a gentle kiss to her forehead.
"Yes... but I just have a few more jobs to complete before I can join you."
Jareth groaned softly in frustration. Sarah always insisted on finishing all of her jobs before she settled down for the evening; otherwise, she'd be restless and unable to relax.
"Must you, darling? You know how desperate I am to hold you and spend time with you..." He pressed his forehead against hers, closing his eyes.
"You know I must...I'm sorry. I won't be long, promise. You go and wait for me in our chambers and I'll be right with you." She told him, gently tracing her fingers along his left cheek.
Jareth sighed but nodded. "Very well, precious. If you insist upon finishing before you allow yourself to rest, then I shall be eagerly awaiting you in our chambers." He released her from his embrace, kissing her head gently before disappearing down the hall.
Sarah smiled after him and went to finish the jobs she had to do.
Entering his study, she found the room very hot and stuffy. The fire was lit and the door had been closed for hours, so she decided to open the window and allow some of the cold evening air into the room.
Turning to his desk, she sighed at the mess of screwed up papers, books, and empty glasses and cups littered upon it. Apparently, Jareth and Aiden had no time to be tidy when they were studying.
Oh, well. It wouldn't take her long to tidy away the washing up and straighten up the papers on his desk.
She grabbed the dirty cups and glasses first, setting them all out of a tray, and then setting the tray of washing up on the side table by the door. She'd take it down to the kitchen once she'd finished sorting the rest of the room.
She walked back to the desk and picked up all the screwed up pieces of paper from the desk and from the floor, placing them all in the wastepaper basket which was hidden in the corner of the window, hidden out of view by the certain.
She decided it made much more sense to put the wastebasket next to his desk, that way he might actually tidy after himself.
She rolled her eyes, a smirk turning up her lips as she began to tidy away the papers.
She looked at the books, noticing how they were all open still, some sentences were underlined with notes written beside them. She decided to leave those. She didn't want to touch anything that looked like it would be hard to find again.
Stacking the papers into a neat pile, she opened the drawer in his desk and placed them inside. Neatly tucking them away where they'd be safe.
Just as she was about to close the draw once more, something caught her eye.
It was a telegram addressed to Jareth, written in very delicate handwriting.
She gazed at it for a few moments, and then reached for it, pulling it out from the back of the draw.
She'd never read any of his letters or documents before, but for some reason, she was very drawn to open and read this letter.
What was even weirder, was the familiar tingling sensation in her fingers as she held it.
She took it as a sign that she was meant to read it.
Taking a seat in his leather armchair, she carefully unfolded the letter.
"To His Royal Highness, Jareth, King of the Goblins.
First, allow me to apologize for such a lengthy wait. As you know, I had planned to gather supplies and return to the Goblin City just a few days after my departure. However, nothing has worked as I planned it.
My dear, Jareth, I barely know how to write this, for I have such bad news. The moment I returned home to Ryrella, I was found out. My Father was awaiting my return and he confronted me. While I had been away, he had telegrammed my cousin to rush my arrival home, for he had important news regarding an alliance with Avalon. Unfortunately, my cousin directed the telegrams back to Ryrella and told my Father that I was not, and had not been staying with her. Of course, my Father knew then. He knew that I had been staying with you and he made me confess everything before he even allowed me to set foot back inside the castle. So, of course, I had to tell him everything. He was angry. So angry that he forced me to stay within my chambers away from everyone for weeks. I had many of my possessions taken from me, and my ladies in waiting have been sent away. It has been torturous to be treated as an enemy in my own home, but I understand that my betrayal is very great, and not easily forgiven.
I am now relieved of my high status as future Queen of Ryrella and my sister, Kendrella, is to inherit the throne should my Father choose to pass over. So, you see, now I am nothing more than a burden to my family - an embarrassment to my Farther, and a woman who cannot be trusted. My Father cares for me still, but he has told me that nothing will ever be the same between us because I betrayed him. I am grieved, but I understand that this is what I deserve.
This leads me to the more important matter at hand; and I am most grieved to tell you that I will not be able to send the supplies you so desperately need. Despite my begging, my Father is unmoved and refuses to even send a sack of grain to you and your starving Kingdom. I feel terrible about it. I know how low the supplies were before I left, and by now I fear that you are almost left with nothing, but as I have already said, I can do nothing to help you. I have no power here anymore.
I'm so sorry.
So it seems now that I shall not be seeing you again, at least not for many years. But in my heart, I will always hold dear, the times we spent together and the memories that we made. The Goblin Kingdom will always be like a second home to me, and I thank you for allowing me the privilege of staying in your precious Kingdom with you, and for all the years of being your friend and lover."
Sarah tried to push down the feelings of jealousy that threatened to consume her when she read those last words. It was more than evident that Lilium still held loving feelings for Jareth. Even in her letter, her feelings for him practically radiated off the paper!
Sighing, Sarah continued to read.
"I still have so much to say, but the hour grows late, and my paper is running low, so I will make what I have left to say quite speedy.
Do not give up hope! I believe in the Kingdom that you once had. I believe that you can regain the power over Sarah and restore all back to its original state. Perhaps, even back to when the soil held enough goodness in it to grow crops. I believe in you and the Kingdom you wish to build, and I write this to beg you not to give up on it, no matter how grave the situation becomes."
Sarah blinked a few times, frowning as she read the same verse again. Had she read that correctly?
"Do not give up hope! I believe in the Kingdom that you once had. I believe that you can regain the power over Sarah and restore all back to its original state."
"Regain the power over me?" Sarah's heart hammered wildly in her chest. "No, no, it can't be true. Jareth couldn't have been trying to regain power over me... could he?"
With shaking hands, Sarah put the letter down on the desk in front of her and immediately began rummaging through the drawer of which she had just put the papers. There had to be something in here that would give her more of an insight into what Lilium was speaking about. Until she saw anymore evidence, she would not believe it.
She looked through the many papers and found nothing out of the ordinary. There was nothing other than notes on the number of families that'd been given rations, or notes about other things she didn't really understand. But it was when she began searching the next drawer that Sarah found something she wasn't expecting.
A leather-bound journal sat at the back of the draw, hidden under another stack of papers. She picked it up, opening the first page, her eyes running across the words written there.
"August 15th 1989."
Sarah felt sick.
Was she really about to do this? Was she really going to read through her fiancé's private journal?
She realized she had too if she wanted to know the truth.
Swallowing hard, Sarah began to read.
August 15th 1989.
"Today, something most unusual has happened. Sarah Williams, the young woman who had the audacity to rip out my heart and throw it back in my face – has called upon me and asked for me to bring her back to the Underground! and in return, she's offered to become my slave.
My, how the tables have turned.
Of course, I used this opportunity to my advantage. I played her. I gave her a nice room and I believe she thinks I've changed. Sarah, Sarah, just you wait and see just how cruel I can be. I will not take advantage of this opportunity after what you did to me and my Kingdom. I will make sure you get your comeuppance."
August 16th 1989.
"I told Sarah I would pick her up for breakfast this morning. I was going to give her the list of chores and discuss a few rules, but the damn girl was late! She turned up at my study around 13 o'clock. How very ironic. She confessed to me that she fell asleep while bathing, and got very angry at me when I asked her why she'd gone a done a thing like that. It seems that Sarah has only become more of a spoilt brat in the last few years. I almost regretted letting her come back here.
However, I finally got through to her. Managed to get her to sign the document, as well. Feeling pleased with myself. What a foolish child she is. Doesn't she know never to sign deals with the devil?"
Notes: Pleasantly surprised to have Sarah enter my chambers in the dress I ordered her to wear. I had thought she'd defy me, but maybe she won't be as hard to break down as I thought! She looks good in the dress - I must admit. I hadn't noticed how much she'd matured until now. Her breasts are large and her waist is small. I find myself quite annoyingly attracted to her.
August 17th 1989.
"That insolent girl! As if it wasn't bad enough that she kissed me back and bit my lip last night - then left me high and dry! But now she's waking me up at an ungodly hour on her first day! And she called Lilium a whore! Foul mood - Might have to bog a goblin later."
Notes: Despite my bad mood, Lilium has pointed out something rather interesting. It seems that Sarah might have a crush on me. Well, I might just be able to take advantage of this situation...
Mood much better. Still going to bog a goblin, though.
August 18th 1989.
"Had a bit of a breakthrough with Sarah last night. After my talk with Lilium, I'm starting to think that she is right. I went to Sarah, and we almost had a heart-to-heart. But of course, it was all just another part of my plan. Seemed to work very well. She fell asleep after telling me about her family.
I confess, I almost feel bad for playing her...
Despite this all being part of my plan, I'm finding myself thinking a little better of her now. We've settled into an easier relationship, anyway."
Notes: Had another chat with Lilium. We've come up with a plan to regain my power over Sarah in the hope of fixing the current state of my Kingdom. I'm hoping that if I continue to play on this, that she will begin to fall in love with me. When she does, she will likely throw herself at me. I don't want to break her spirit; I just want to take back what she stole from me, and I will get it.
Sarah's heart twisted painfully in her chest and tears streamed down her cheeks. So it was true. What Lilium had written was true. Jareth had been playing her all along in the hopes of her falling in love with him so that he could regain his power over her, and hopefully restore his Kingdom back to what it was before she won.
She wanted to throw up.
Her head was spinning and her eyes were burning with tears.
She choked out a sob and turned to the next page. She had to read it all. She had to find out if he was still playing this evil trick to regain his power over her.
She scrubbed her eyes with the back of her hand and continued to read, biting down on her lip so hard, she could taste the blood on her tongue.
August 28th 1989.
"Boring day. Goblins being troublesome. Had to bog a few. Bad mood."
Notes: My dull day has become much brighter. Entered my chambers this evening, found Sarah busy cleaning the floors. I teased her a bit and then changed from my shirt into a fresh one. Noticed that Sarah was watching me as I changed. Her eyes can be so cruel...noticing that I had such an effect on her, I kept my shirt off and asked her to run me a bath. She did it, and I invited her to join me. She refused, but its what she said after that's pleased me so much.
I asked her to put her hand on her heart and tell me that a part of her wouldn't like to join me. Well, she didn't deny it. She just told me that even if she had wanted to join me, she wouldn't have. Because she wasn't that kind of girl.
Feeling quite pleased that progress is coming along much faster than I expected it too. Just disappointed that she didn't join me.
August 29th 1989.
"Eventful day. Called Aiden and apologized for what happened between us in the past. He forgave me and said he'd come back. I was shocked and a little jealous to find out that he has a daughter. How I wish I had a family of my own. But that will likely never happen...
Invited Sarah to join me for dinner, she was apprehensive but stayed when I asked her again. Enjoyed her company and a simple chat. She didn't pull her hand away when I kissed it."
August 30th 1989
"Aiden got here today. Nice to see him and meet his daughter Adelaide. She is a sweet, yet shy thing. Envious that Aiden has such a sweet child in his life."
Notes: Pissed off! Aiden met Sarah and flirted with her. What makes this worse, is that she seemed to enjoy his attention as much as he enjoyed giving it to her! Going to have a strong word with Aiden tomorrow.
August 31st 1989.
"Had a chat with Aiden over breakfast. He agreed to back off once I told me about my idea to overpower Sarah.
Was saddened to hear that Aiden lost his wife. She died in childbirth. I cannot imagine how hard that must have been for Aiden."
Notes: Found Sarah crying in my chambers this afternoon. She was sad about Toby, as it was his 5th birthday. I confess I felt sad to see her so pained. I asked her to come to town with me, and she agreed.
We had a nice time together. She rode Spirit and I rode Shadow. We shared more than a few intense moments. I brought her a necklace because she liked it so much, and I have to admit, she looked like a Queen... I was stunned by her beauty. Gods above, why do I want her so badly? We ate and drank at the tavern for some time. After we'd eaten and had a few drinks we kissed passionately. I felt the pull to take her so strongly, but I used all my strength to stop myself. As much as I want her, I have to remember the plan. Stopping myself from ravishing her, only seems to have helped our relationship grow. She believes me to be honorable and considerate of her feelings because I stopped things from going further between us.
I would love to say that this whole day was just me trying to get her to fall for me - and partly it was - but I have to say, that I too have enjoyed the day we've shared together. The kiss, the intimacy, the smile on her face. I won't forget this day for as long as Iive.
September 1st 1989.
"Spent a lot of the day with Lilium and Aiden. We had dinner together but I was surprised not to see Sarah bring us our food. I grew concerned and irritated, especially considering how well yesterday went."
Update: I'm so angry and worried. That foolish, foolish girl rode out to the Labyrinth! I found her unconscious in the rain. My god, I don't even know how I'm feeling right now. I just know that Sarah had better wake up soon or everything is lost..."
Notes: Sat by Sarah's beside for awhile. Been feeling incredibly worried. Not sure she's going to make it though. Will write more later.
Notes: Had a chat with Aiden. He made me see that I really am getting far too tangled up in this situation with regards to Sarah. He's reminded me of my goal and advised me not to grow attached to her. Gods, I'm embarrassed at myself. Only a few weeks ago I almost hated her, and yet now I'm letting my feelings take over. Well, for no longer. I am doing this for a reason- to regain my power- and I will not allow myself to become wrapped up in this - no matter how found of Sarah I become.
Notes: Sarah's awake and apart from a headache and a sore back from her fall from Spirit, she is well. I am relieved. I sat with her, and she told me what happened. I'm almost certain now, that my suspicions are correct. She felt a pull to the Labyrinth. It is calling her. I'm just glad its power didn't kill her. She is lucky to be alive. I stayed with her all night, sleeping in her bed with her. Woke up with her snuggled in my arms. Whoever knew that Sarah Williams liked to snuggle?
Sarah turned the page, noticing how most of the other entries were very basic.
September 8th 1989.
"Read to Sarah again. She fell asleep with her head on my shoulder. Think she likes to hear my voice as she sleeps."
September 10th 1989.
"Making rapid progress with Sarah. I'm almost certain she feels something for me now. Won't be long now, I can tell. My victory is imminent."
They went on like this, and she noticed that he'd even missed a few entries. So she turned to the next page instead of reading through the more basic ones.
September 14th 1989
"She said my name. Sarah said my name today and it was the most beautiful sound I've ever heard. I pressed her against the wall and kissed her. Eventually, I got her to agree to call me by my name when we're alone. My god, I hope she does. Because to live without hearing her say it again would be torture. I want her to always call me Jareth."
Notes: Bloody Aiden interrupted our moment. I'm so annoyed. How does he expect me to ever get anywhere with Sarah when he continues to walk in on our private moments?
Anyway, he gave me another lecture about it all. I'm feeling a little odd about the whole situation if I'm being completely honest with myself. I do consider Sarah a friend now, and it's making this entire situation harder for me. I just wish I could shut off my feelings of fondness for her.
September 15th 1989.
"The Labyrinth is crumbling more each day. I MUST continue in my mission to get Sarah to fall for me, otherwise, I don't know what I shall do."
September 16th 1989.
"Haven't spent much time with Sarah in a week. Just need to put some distance between us in order to sort myself out. Aiden's annoyed at me because of it – keeps telling me that it's more important for me to continue spending time with Sarah. I know he's right. I'll try and go to see her at some point over the next few days."
September 17th 1989.
"Spent the night with Lilium. Don't enjoy my time with her as much anymore, but couldn't deny her - especially not in that outfit...she looks like a goddess!"
Notes: Great night with Lilium. She certainly knows exactly how to make me feel better.
Sarah suddenly shut the journal. That was it. She couldn't face it anymore. She couldn't face another word.
She let the book in her shaking hands drop to the floor, and it landed by her feet on the floor.
Everything - everything they'd been through had been a lie.
Every day that she thought had meant something to them both had just been part of his evil plan to overpower her.
Every moment, including the ones of him taking care of her and reading to her every night while she was healing – it had all been done to get her to fall in love with him and not because he cared for her at all!
Sarah couldn't see through her tears. Her shoulders hitched and she sobbed out the anguish she felt in her heart.
She'd never felt so crushed - so broken.
She leaned over the edge of his chair and threw up the contents of her stomach into the wastebasket she'd brought closer earlier.
Her sobs increased by the second, her entire body violently shaking as she tried to come to terms with the knowledge that the love of her life had tricked her completely, and in every way possible.
She'd given herself to him. She'd trusted him with her body, her mind, her heart. And he'd deceived her...
*Deep breath* Fuck this chapter has been a bitch to write. Don't ask me why, but I've hated writing this chapter so much! lol
I really hope that doesn't come across in my writing - but if it does, I'm so sorry. Maybe one day I'll come back to this chapter, edit it and have a proper go at making it better. But for now, I just want to get passed this chapter so I can move onto the next one. (I've written a lot of the next two chapters so if you can leave a review I'll upload the second part within the next week or so!
Thanks so much for reading! I can't explain how much it means to me to know that you guys read my stuff! I'm so honored!
