Disclaimer: I own nothing but my own characters and plot
Authors note: I'm so sorry this has taken me so long to post, you would not believe how busy I am (planning a wedding isn't easy). Please review and enjoy.
The Goblin King sat on a step in his Escher Room with a crystal in his hand, which showed his brother's progress. Currently, Maccus, Jareth's twin brother, was hanging upside down by his foot and a pit had opened underneath him and it was full of panthers.
Running a hand over his face in frustration, Jareth wondered how his brother would get himself out of this mess and why he himself hadn't taken up the challenge. But then he remembered how he had acted and knew he no longer deserved Sarah in any way and hoped she found happiness with the fae who won this challenge.
As he continued to watch his brother's fruitless attempts at freedom, Jareth's mind drifted back to when Lavena, Spirit and Essence of the Labyrinth, had issued the challenge.
Twenty four hours earlier
"Welcome, my dear Monarchs," Lavena's voice was cheerful as she greeted the suitors of her great-great-granddaughter, not that they knew that piece of information. "Welcome to the entrance of my Labyrinth.
"No doubt, you are all wondering why I have called you here and I will explain soon, however-" as Lavena spoke, the four Monarchs, Prince Kier, King Varden, King Maccus and King Jareth became distracted by the beautiful and sleek panther walking past the entrance on the inside of the Labyrinth. As they all knew who the panther was, no one was surprised to hear the low growl that rumbled from her chest as she saw them before disappearing from sight.
"However," Lavena's voice continued and a gleam of mischief had entered her eyes, "I feel I should inform you of some changes to my Labyrinth since it's Champion has returned." Lavena looked at Jareth and Maccus, the mischief and laughter clear in her eyes, before continuing.
"As you all know, I can change my Labyrinth at will and as my Champion, Lady Sarah can do the same. New additions have been made as a couple of you found out and I will only give you this warning; use caution at every turn and stay out of Lady Sarah's Gardens, you have been warned."
All four Monarch's shifted on the spot, letting Lavena's advice sink in and looking at each other, as if almost sizing up the other. Lavena let another silent minute slip by before interrupting the small and silent pissing contest.
"And so Gentlemen, we come to the matter at hand; why did I invite you here?" Lavena smiled knowingly. "I have a Challenge for you; find my Champion within the Labyrinth before time runs out and you shall win her hand in marriage. Any questions before I ask each of you if you accept this Challenge?"
"How long is the time limit, Lavena?" King Maccus asked, respect colouring his voice.
"You will have twenty-six hours to find Lady Sarah," the Goddess answered.
"Are there any conditions?" King Varden asked, worry lacing his words.
"Yes, your magic will be bound as soon as you enter, so choose you equipment wisely," Lavena seemed almost giddy as she answered that question. "Anymore questions?" Each Monarch shook their head. "Then allow me to issue the challenge to each of you.
"Prince Kier, will you brave the Labyrinth and it's dangers to win the hand of it's Champion?"
"I will," all could hear the cocky edge in his voice.
"King Varden, will you brave the Labyrinth and it's dangers to win the hand of it's Champion?"
"It would be an honour," King Varden replied, bowing to the otherworldly woman.
"King Maccus, will you brave the Labyrinth and it's dangers to win the hand of it's Champion?"
"I will," his voice clear and slightly humble.
"King Jareth, will you brave the Labyrinth and it's dangers to win the hand of it's Champion?"
"I will not," Lavena's eyes widen in surprise at his answer that was laced with defeat and slightly despair.
"Why will you not take up this Challenge, Goblin King?" She asked.
"Because I refuse to 'win' Lady Sarah like she is a prize," Jareth answered, "and after the way I behaved last time she saw me, I do not, in anyway shape or form, deserve her forgiveness or a chance to 'win' her hand. I officially withdraw my suit to be her husband."
The three Monarchs and Lavena stood in silence, Jareth's words still ringing in their ears, even though he had not shouted. Looking impressed, Lavena was the first to speak.
"Very well, Jareth, you may return to your castle and I give you permission to watch the challenge through your crystals, but you cannot offer help." Nodding in agreement to Lavena's rules, the Goblin King disappeared from the entrance of the Labyrinth and back to his throne room, where he summoned a crystal to watch. As his former rivals adjusted themselves to enter the Labyrinth, Jareth found himself silently routing for Sarah to out wit them, just as she had done to him so long ago.
Extra Author's note; thank you all for not giving up on me and I promise not to make you wait too long for the next chapter, I hope to make it funny for you ;D