Chapter 29. Days of preperations

Jareth vacated the throne room for the more private surroundings of his own bedchamber. The moment he dropped onto the bed, he produced a crystal and focused in on Sarah. He saw that Della had callously left her bound, not that he'd blame the Harpy. Sarah bound was a picturesque sight, and Harpies were deeply moved by sexual stimuli. He made a note to keep an eye on the situation, as he had no intentions of sharing the girl. He watched as she moved trying to alleviate the state of heightened sexual tension he'd left her with. His hand moved gently up and down his still exposed shaft as the girl wiggled and panted while trying to get off. He pushed his speed to match hers as she moved in an undulation that was giving him ideas for his next strike upon her.

He was nearly at the point of climax when Daisy suddenly appeared in the orb in his hand. "Good Goddess, it smells like a brothel in here," she said loudly, making the Harpy jump. "What the hell is going on?" She asked seeing the bound girl. "Why didn't you unclip her?"

"Saw no need to," Della said cheerily as she moved to the window. "I'm going hunting… have a nice lunch…."

Daisy placed the hamper down on the table, moved toward the girl and became aware of the harness. "He trains you," she said sounding a bit perturbed. "And still he has not read all the scrolls…" she unclipped the human and released her hands and feet. "Let's get you out of the hardware and into a bath." She ushered the girl to the bathing area muttering as she drew a tub of hot sudsy water for the girl. "Men are such fools, you tell them where to find the secrets of the universe and they still don't bother to look."

Sarah stood still as Daisy released her from the harness. "Thank you," she replied grudgingly.

Jareth dropped the orb; it flickered out as he finished the task of climaxing. He had not even thought about the way Daisy had found to enter the tower room, all he cared about at that moment was his own release. Once achieved; he moved to his own bathing area to clean up, pondering the words of his Goblin Guard as he did. What was it she'd said, 'you tell them where to find the secrets of the universe and they still don't bother to look.' The King wondered what that meant, and decided to find out. He changed his garments, and made his way by foot down to the scribe's chamber, needing to expel some of the lingering tautness.

Lutin was working on current records when the King entered. "Lutin, do we have records of how the Tagaan or Rhuukarlaan was trained and by whom? I'm taking it for granted that the King would have been too busy with war issues and the famine to train a woman."

"You are correct, Sire. King Zoltarie was far too taxed to take on such a menial task." Lutin moved quietly to an alcove where he was compiling the scrolls that pertained to the reign of the last great Goblin King. "Here Sire, this is the scroll that tells of the training of the Tagaan or Rhuukarlaan, it's all very detailed." The scribe handed the scroll over as the King took a seat.

The Goblin King unrolled the scroll and read the name at the top of the Scroll, The guild of Rhuukarlaan. "There was a Guild? What ever happened to that guild? Is there any record?"

"When the first Fae King took over he had it dismantled." Lutin said with woe. "More's the pity… they performed great services throughout the Kingdom. Training slaves, keeping records of sales, and they were in charge of the day-to-day upkeep of the slaves. Slaves that haven't been sold on the block or were waiting until the next auction would be sent to that guild for safe keeping and maintenance. The only exceptions were the slaves that would be used here in the palace. For them the Guild would send a training expert… but for the Tagaan or Rhuukarlaan, the guild sent over its most revered Mistress… The Lady Dunellen." Lutin spoke the name of the dominatrix with reverence.

"Lutin," Jareth turned slightly in the seat, and regarded his scribe with respect and high regard. "Tell me true, did the guild disband, or go underground… so to speak?"

Lutin gave the King a long wary glance. "They went underground, Jareth Tuatha Dé Danann Huukec Mec, Warrior King." He held his head up proudly, respecting the man who was questioning him. "You are not like the rest of the Fae, not even the rest who dwell here in our borders. You are one of us," Lutin bowed to him. "And I will hide no secret from you."

Jareth knew what the hiding of some of the Goblin secrets could cost. He had heard of the reigns of the other Fae Kings. Most of whom he considered silly old men without any soul. He was aware they didn't love this kingdom, not like he did. Most of the previous Fae Kings could not wait until their assigned time of reign was over so they could move on to other assignments. It had never stuck Jareth as odd that Oberon had not placed a time limit on his reign. "As long as I reign, I promise you Lutin, no Goblin secret will be revealed to an outsider by me, not even to the Great High King." Tapping the scroll he continued softly. "Is there a chapter of the guild still active?"

"There is," admitted the scribe in hushed tones of secrecy.

"Who is master of this guild as of now?" Jareth requested in an undertone.

"He is the Goblin Donatien Sade, and the guild is now disguised as an importing establishment … he trains servants for higher level Goblins with distinctive needs. Most of his trade is with Goblins who have more Hobgoblin blood, and intelligence." Lutin said suggestively. "He is a descendant of the Lady Dunellen."

"Send for him," Jareth commanded as he began to read the scrolls, "I wish for him to come here to this chamber… I want these scrolls present as I speak to him on this matter."

"As you wish," Lutin bowed moving to comply with the wishes of his King.

Jareth began to read the scroll from the Guild, feeling that he would need ever bit of knowledge they could contain. He wanted to be well prepared when Master Sade arrived.

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Bryn had noticed that Devon had become very quiet. "Is there a problem I should know about, my Lord Baron?"

A soft frown formed on the handsome features before the blue eyes of the Baron turned to her. "No, not really…" he looked away, for a moment before turning back to her. "Well, maybe…I'm not sure." He took a seat on the stone wall in the orchard. "Sit with me," his hand motioned her to be seated next to him. "I know you're very concerned about your friend Sarah…."

"Yes, yes I am." Bryn nodded without hesitation. "I'm sure that where ever she is, Sarah has asked about me as well."

"What makes you so sure?" he asked knowing that indeed Sarah had asked about Bryn's welfare from several people. But he was surprised that Bryn was so sure.

"We're friends," she said in a tone that was unswerving and steadfast. Her faith in Sarah was unshakable, "I know that means very little to you, but you see because our lives are so… quickly spent, we need to form close relationships… Sarah is my friend, and my sister." She shrugged. "I know that you've a close relationship with the King, your cousin… surely you understand…"

"Your relation with Sarah Williams is what I'm worried about, Cariad." Devon murmured carefully. "You've no idea of what problems it may cause us."

"Us?" Bryn wrinkled her nose, "I was not aware there was an 'us'…as of yet." She hopped down from the wall. "Or perhaps my Lord is referring to himself and the King…"

Devon began to chew lightly on his lower lip. "I'm not sure how to address your observation." He pondered the problem before him. "If I say us as in you and I you're libel to bite my head off, and if I say Jareth and I… well it's the same result." He shook his head. "I'm treading untried waters here, Miss Cystennin… I could use a little help on your part."

"What kinds of problems can Sarah and I cause?" she questioned pacing back and forth. "We're not allowed contact; it's been weeks since I've seen her."

"As you've said, you're sisters… Jareth is a Fae King, my Cariad… he understands circles and their implications." Devon shuddered; thinking of the anger of the King. "He thinks I'm playing games with you…"

"Aren't you, my Lord?" She paused, hands on her hips and a look of distrust on her pretty face.

"Not the kinds of games he thinks…" Devon protested. "I'm still sleeping alone," he reminded her gently.

Wincing she held up a hand. "Clarify something for me," she said straining. "Do you people just jump from bed to bed without any kind of thought of the repercussions?" She began to speak in a rush. "I mean, don't you worry about passing on diseases or … worse?"

"No," Devon said looking at her flabbergasted.

"Well that's something we do worry about…" Bryn looked at him with just a touch of scorn. "WE have to worry about disease and unwanted pregnancy… and injury…Sex is not just for fun no matter what someone like Lilith would say…. Sarah and I were both…real careful about whom we spent time with…"

Devon raised a brow, "I sensed you were not a virgin…"

"I was raped…" she groaned, looking over at him. "You do know what rape is, don't you?"

"Sarcasm is unnecessary, I assure you." Devon narrowed his eyes as he watched her. "Who raped you?"

Bryn turned, she had not wanted to discuss this private matter with anyone and that included the Baron. "It does not matter; it's been taken care of."

"Who took care of it?" Devon asked quietly.

Bryn had wanted to hedge then chose the path the Gods and Goddess had given her. "Sarah did." She saw Devon's mouth fall and she added quickly. "The man who raped me, also raped other girls at the school, and tortured still others… The only one who ever stood up to him and thwarted him was Sarah…He had not counted on her knowing and understanding how to use Law…she figured his traps out and turned them against him, got him kicked out of the school and in the process saved the lives of every other girl there. She became our hero, and our leader….The bastard then went after her kid brother…so she devised a plan to take him out all together….Lilith and I agreed to go along with her plan…"

"The child who threatened me at the memorial," he questioned. Bryn nodded and he let a long whistle sound though his puckered lips. "Well I'll be damned…."

"Sarah is our strength… she's a survivor… You've no idea of what that monster did to us before Sarah came to St. Ambrose. She united all of us scared little girls… she gave us a purpose. Once she took her stand, and Daniels was dismissed that hell hole became livable. She did more for all of the victims of that monster than I could ever tell you." Bryn pointed out. "So I'm afraid if you're about to ask me to deny our friendship I'll have to ask you to put me in some kind of prison… because I will never deny Sarah Williams is my friend…and my sister."

"Well," he said clearing his throat slightly. "I'd be a terrible cad if I made such a demand." He sighed deeply, looking at the petite woman who was staring back at him with a serious expression. "Damn it all Bryn Cystennin, we'll face what ever the fates throw at us."

"And you'll understand when from time to time I ask you to let me know she's…alive?"

Extending his hand to her he drew her near. "I wish I could give you more…. But yes, I'll understand. More than that, I will tell you what I know of the girl who saved you."

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Donatien Sade it was said was a very handsome Goblin, whose features were pure Hobgoblin, rather than mixed like so many of the Hobgoblins in the Kingdom. His skin was not the grubby color of the lower level goblins; his was more like the Goblin King's skin, a soft glowing alabaster tone. He was tall and well formed, athletic and powerful. He walked with confidence, and held his head high. He had a full head of long white silky hair, which flowed down to his shoulders. From his temples pair of slightly curved but beautifully sculpted horns could be seen if one looked closely, easily covered if their owner didn't want them viewed. In his hand was a silver headed walking stick that had long been his companion and held worn groves from where his fingers would rest in the grip. His long black velvety robe flowed about in a sensual manner as he strode into the King's Library. He bowed deeply to Jareth and addressed him in a low tones, servile, yet cunning and not to be easily dismissed. "You wished to see me, Sire?"

"Donatien Sade," Jareth addressed him darkly. "I've heard you may be able to help your king with a… problem."

Arrogance danced off the man who was obviously amused by the King's innuendo. "Indeed?" He tapped his walking stick several times. "What could I, a mere merchant, do for one as powerful as you, my King?" His steely gray eyes were lit with interest and amusement. This was the first time he'd been called to the Palace, and he found the King an interesting personage.

"I have need of your… special talents," Jareth passed the open guild scroll toward the man standing. "Do be seated." Jareth motioned for him to take the seat opposite him.

"My thanks Sire." Donatien sat down with a well practiced flourish. He looked for a moment at the scroll on the table, making no effort to touch it. Instead he rested his hands and chin on the head of the walking stick. "I see you've been reading, Sire."

"Yes, I have." Jareth sighed softly. "This is a delicate matter, and one not to be discussed with someone not of our Kingdom."

"You were not born of this Kingdom," the man visiting reminded the King. "You were born a son of the Fae." His voice was only slightly challenging.

"My birth may not have been of this Kingdom, but my heart and soul are here now." Jareth stated leaning forward. "Do you question my fidelity to the Kingdom?"

Donatien pursed his thin lips for a moment. "Not I." He looked at Jareth Tuatha Dé Danann Huukec Mec, Fae born King who now seemed more Goblin than most Goblins in the Kingdom did. Donatien, coming from a very old Hobgoblin family knew what it meant to be Goblin, and if he was assessing this Fae born correctly, he was every inch a Goblin. "I only wish to remind my King that others will." He lowered the walking stick to rest on the chair and extend in a long angle on the floor. "You say you have need of my," the elegant Goblin smirked dangerously; "My special talents?"

"On Samhain I came into possession of a rare and priceless treasure." Jareth stated gloatingly.

The Hobgoblin dressed in black nodded, "I have been in formed that the King brought back a guest who is now in his tower."

"She is Tagaan or Rhuukarlaan," Jareth stated proudly.

Donatien cocked on brow upward, as his smirk deepened. "Indeed?"

"However she needs to be trained in the skills and requirements of the station she now finds herself in." Jareth laid a hand on the scroll from the past. "As Zoltarie called upon the Lady Dunellen, I call upon you now."

Master Donatien looked at the man sitting opposite him, "I am honored," he took a deep breath. "However Sire, I must remind you that my… guild… is outlawed by your High King."

"Your guild is not my father's business," Jareth assured the careful Hobgoblin. "Nothing that happens in my Kingdom is my father's business."

"You mean that, do you?" the master of the guild challenged.

"I went before the High Court of the Fae to declare our sovereignty." Jareth stated understanding the caution the other was exercising. He was well aware of the laws that had been levied upon the Goblin Kingdom. Laws that until recently had been the foundation of destruction, instead of the construction that had been hoped for by the oh so well meaning previous Fae Kings.

"If I agree to your request," Master Donatien now leaned forward and spoke using his hand expressively. "I will request as payment that my Guild be reinstated. That no retribution be addressed to me or any other guild member. If I undertake this request, I will expect to be allowed to live in the open once more… not to have to hide our…way of life in the shadows."

"I see no problem with that," Jareth smirked knowing it would go against everything the Fae had tried to do here in the Goblin Kingdom. "In fact I would consider it an honor to grant your Guild a new charter."

"You are not like the rest of them you know," Master Donatien praised with deep adoration of the Goblin King. "You may look like them but you are more like us. You are the Goblin King." He snickered knowing that it must upset many of the High Courts which he considered a joke. "Now, my King, tell me about your Tagaan or Rhuukarlaan," the dark master said the words with the right inflections and growling tones that were inherently Goblin. Yet on the slivery tongue of the Master of the Guild, it came out sounding like a proposition.

"She is human in origin, but living here she will not be mortal much longer. Like all who live and breathe here, she is changing in subtle ways." Jareth explained softly. "She is a magic user, whose powers I've bound…for now…but she is a witch and you must be aware of that while you train her. You will address her by her title, as I've denied her the use of her mortal name."

"Of what bloodlines is she?" The master asked with interest.

"Celtic lines, on both sides of her family." Jareth said appreciatively.

"Ah, good lines, women with fire." The master complemented softly. "I take it you had the masters of leather and metal fashion a harness not unlike the one used by the original Tagaan or Rhuukarlaan."

"Indeed," Jareth felt warmth flood his lions thinking of the fury of Sarah as they had wrestled her into the training harness.

Master Donatien could not mistake the flood of male pheromones that the King's heightened state of excitement produced. "She must be an exquisite acquisition." When the King nodded with a wicked smile, the Master snickered. "You will want her trained here; no doubt, I will require rooms for that purpose. And rooms for my own use… I will bring my own servants if you don't mind… I prefer my staff to take care of my personal needs."

"The scroll said that there were rooms in the old west wing that were used by the Lady Dunellen when she resided here to train Zoltarie's slave…. I will have them opened and prepared for you. They include a small kitchen of sorts for the use of the Master…will they suffice?" Jareth asked.

"I have read the personal records of the Lady, and they will more than do." Assured the man with a wicked gleam in his eyes, as he rose to stand, "I shall go ready my personal staff."

"One thing," Jareth said as the other turned away. Master Donatien looked over his shoulder, and Jareth said quietly. "No one may touch the Tagaan or Rhuukarlaan," the King smiled cryptically.

"I beg your pardon?" Donatien turned to face the King.

"A by product of a spell cast upon her some four years ago…" Jareth boasted arrogantly. "Mine is the only touch she can bear."

Donatien moved forward, intrigued. "What kind of spell did you cast, my King?"

"The lady and I did not part well," Jareth quipped. "She refused me when I offered her, her dreams… so I harvested them." He smirked; "Keeping them in an orb for my own enjoyment."

Tapping his walking stick, showing his delight in his King's wickedness, the Hobgoblin snorted. "Come now, my King… that alone could not create the milady you suggest."

"Oh," Jareth boasted; "Did I mention that I also stole her first true kiss?"

Extending a hand and placing it on the King's shoulder Donatien laughed aloud. "You are a true Goblin at heart my King! It will be a great pleasure to serve you."

"Master Donatien, would the slave be ready to be shown in public by say… Winter Solstice?" The King asked with a depraved look of pleasure.

"One hears you've been invited to Avalon," the elegant man stated and gave thought to the embarrassment Jareth's slave would cause the spoiled Fae of the High Court. "I'll have her ready for you, sire." He promised in a sinister way.

Jareth inclined his head, "I will have equipment brought to the chamber of training for you."

Donatien was already moving toward the exit and called over his shoulder. "Not necessary, Sire. I will bring my own, and make a list of things you need to have made up for your own… use."

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Devon arrived at the castle in the heart of the Goblin City and noticed at once the fury of activity that was going on in the west wing. "Philo!" he called out to the Steward who appeared at once. "What in blazes is he doing now?"

"He's opened the training wing…" Philo looked frightened and excited at the same moment.

"Good Goddess," muttered the Baron as he moved toward the one place he knew the King would be; the circular Throne room. "Jareth have you lost your mind?" He called out as he entered.

"Not at all," Jareth called back to his cousin. "I'm behaving perfectly, for a Goblin King."

Devon found him lounging in the massive throne and looking entirely too pleased with himself. "You know what you are doing is against …."

"Against what? A law a Fae King instituted? But cousin, it's not a law that is even recognized by the High King… it was another attempt by Fae to squash the Goblins…and it's not natural…" Jareth protested.

Devon advanced. "Is it not enough that she is your…"

"No," Jareth stated hotly. "It is not enough for her to be just my prisoner, or my slave in name… I want her to be Tagaan or Rhuukarlaan, completely." He smiled and leaned back again. "I've reinstated the Guild Rhuukarlaan, and issued them a new charter."

"I hope you know what you are doing," Devon sighed.

"I intend to bring my beautiful slave with me to Solstice." Jareth boasted, and having a thought he motioned to his cousin. "No doubt you planned on bringing your dolly… that will mean however we must travel separately. I will not allow contact between the pair…OH that will be delicious… my Tagaan or Rhuukarlaan will be able to see your pretty dolly, but not talk to her…"

"You've a real cruel streak in you," Devon observed.

"So do you," Jareth reminded the other. "So do you."

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Della was called upon by the King the next morning to deliver Sarah to the chamber in the west wing. Daisy had given Sarah instructions on how to properly get into the harness on her own without causing damage to herself. Placing herself in the frame of mind she'd used when dancing in the strip club, Sarah prepared herself for whatever was about to befall her.

The chamber was stark; only one chair appeared to be in the room. The torches were flickering and the room smelled of herbs and spices, none of which belonged to the Goblin King. The girl looked about, but she seemed to be alone. Instinct told her she was not and moreover not to take a seat in that chair. She listened carefully, and hard the faint sound of breathing, guarded and controlled, but it was there. "Who's there?"

"I am Master Donatien Sade," A voice from the darkness stated. "You will address me as Master Sade unless otherwise instructed. Do you understand?"

Sarah swallowed the bile that was gathering in her throat. "Yes,"

"Yes?" the voice sounded not angry but perturbed.

Sarah closed her eyes and whispered softly. "Yes, Master Sade."

From the cover of the darkness he strode out, bare chested with muscles that could rival those of the Goblin King. His breeches were form fitting and he was every inch as fit as Jareth. He looked at her with a critical eye. "I am here to teach you, and train you as a proper Tagaan or Rhuukarlaan," he said moving about her, looking at her nakedness. "Who pierced you?"

"The Harpy Della, Master Sade." She kept her voice impersonal.

"This harness, you put it on you?"

"I did, Master Sade, the Goblin Daisy taught me how." She answered truthfully.

The Master looked at the harness; this Goblin had knowledge of the workings and had given the girl the proper instructions. "Good," he said firmly. "Let us be clear," he clasped his hands behind his back. "I've been told I may not touch you… not with my hands…and though it is unusual, it is not impossible to train you with that restriction. I am not however forbidden to use whip or flogger or any of the other tools of my trade. The only restriction the King has placed is that you are not to be marred." He saw the quiver of a shudder that the girl suppressed. "Do I make myself clear?"

"Yes, Master Sade." She said quietly. "I do as I'm told or you will punish me."

"You are a very intelligent female, I was not aware the mortals were still breeding intelligent females…" he observed. "Let us hope it serves you well." He moved to the chair and took his seat. "You are now Tagaan or Rhuukarlaan, and you belong to the King of the Goblins alone… it is your duty to please him in any way he desires." Donatien let his eyes moved down her body. "I can well understand his desires to keep you…for a human you are beautiful."

Sarah looked at him with suspicion, but kept her voice still.

"Perhaps if the King tires of you…" He saw fire rise in her green eyes, and snickered. "Let us begin with the training, walk…"

"I beg your pardon?" she blinked.

He forgave the fact that she had not addressed him properly; he could afford to be generous at this moment. "I need to see you walk, how you move is important." His long elegant hand motioned her to walk about the room. "Not bad… good movement and poise….Yes,…" He stood. "If you pay close attention, and do as you are told, we will have you properly trained and ready for display in less than the five weeks the King has given me."

Sarah looked over her shoulder at him, "I beg your pardon, Master Sade, but what do you mean ready for display?"

"The King intends to take you with him to Avalon when he goes for the Winter Solstice festival…" The master said calmly, pleased that this time she'd recalled the importance of addressing him by his title.

Sarah looked down at the harness and balanced. "No." she shook her head. She looked at the master as she turned to face him. "No, Master Sade, I will not be paraded before the Fae court in this…thing."

"Of course not," Master Sade mused. "This is a training harness… only the King and your trainer will ever see you in this… and of course your guards my lady Tagaan." He assured her wittily. "To be presented at the courts you will be dressed provocatively, but you will be dressed. Your nakedness is for Jareth's pleasure, no others."

"Yet he allows you to see me naked, Master Sade." She looked at him though dark lashes.

"I am here to train you, not to use you." He leered openly. "Were I to use you, the King would never be able to take his pleasures again."

The mask of bravado slipped, "I'll take your word on that, Master Sade."

He snickered, "I will now begin the instructions, let us begin with the harness… it is to teach you to stand at attention. The cuffs and ankle bindings will be replaced with others befitting your station once you are trained. A proper slave of bondage understands the importance of submitting to her or his master's desires to be in control…." Sarah listened to the man speak and for a moment forgot she was standing naked before him. "Your binding cuffs are a sign of your station, and should be worn with great pride." He stepped back. "Now, Tagaan, walk again."

Sarah took the seriousness of this situation into consideration. The man now held a wicked looking flogger in his hand, and he appeared to know how to use it. She could balk, and be whipped; she could refuse and be punished. Or, she could bid her time take the training and make plans for her retaliations and a possible escape. The cry of Freedom in her blood won, the girl that once had been called Sarah Williams lifted her head, poised herself and walked.

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Tanya entered her mother's sitting room sullenly. "You sent for me Mother?"

Duke Winderspire's wife looked up at her daughter with a pleasant smile, put her needlework aside and motioned the young woman to be seated. "Yes, Tanya I did…" she poured tea for both of them from a tray that an Elf servant had brought in. "We have been invited to the Solstice celebrations on Avalon, my dear." Her voice told the girl just how pleased the Duchess was.

The girl sipped her tea, but shrugged and didn't appear anywhere as elated. "How nice," she murmured softly.

"Tanya," her mother said softly. "King Jareth will be attending also… you may have a chance to improve the way you blundered on Samhain."

"I didn't blunder!" protested the young Fae woman. "I was charming, and he went off sulking like a kicked dog."

"He's a man of many moods… brooding seems to be the one he's in right now." Her mother sighed. "Perhaps he'll be in a better mood come Solstice…. One can not help but pity him… surrounded by those ghastly Goblin creatures day in and day out… no wonder his mood is… dark." She sipped her own tea. "I'm sure a pretty face such as yours can improve his temperament."

Tanya smiled. "I will try, Mama." She painted a pleasant face on to please her mother.

"Of course you will," the Duchess said gently. "May you succeed my daughter."

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Talagon stood on a cliff that overlooked the boarder that separated his lands from that of the Goblins. Envy was written on his face, and he crossed his arms in disgust. The rich soils of the border should be his for the taking. Yet the High King had stymied him by placing that spoiled brat upon the throne. Who could have imagined that the boy would actually begin to rule? Every other Fae High Born had failed, but not this one. It irked Talagon that he would have to wait until this one was tired of playing games.

"Looking at our neighbor's back yard again, Father?" Circe's voice sounded behind him.

He didn't bother to turn to look, "I was getting some air."

"You were getting envious," she corrected smugly hooking a hand into his arm. "Not that I blame you… the border is ripe for the taking… and we could use it far better than the Goblins do."

He looked at the young woman at his side, she was every inch his daughter. Not a bit of her mother's nature seemed to have been inherited by the girl. She returned his gaze in kind. "Circe, if that brat does not give up the throne soon…"

"I heard," she interrupted his thoughts swiftly. "That the Goblin King has a new interest, Father… a Tagaan or Rhuukarlaan," she informed him quietly. "I've even heard that King Jareth has re issued a charter to the Guild Rhuukarlaan," her eyes were now dancing with wicked pleasure.

"Indeed?" Talagon's interested was raised. He had from time to time had need of the special talents of the secret guild. For the Goblin King to issue a new Charter and to reinstate the Guild was news. "Have you been in contact with our friend in the Guild?"

"Yes," Circe said with a smirk. "Our friend informs me that the Master of the Guild himself is training the King's new toy, and that the Goblin King intends to bring her with him to the Winter Solstice Festival on Avalon."

"We must observe the King and his Tagaan," Talagon looked back at the longed for border lands. "She may prove his undoing…"

"Or at least a key," Circe said in agreement.

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Master Donatien entered the circular Throne room, and bowed to his King in a sweeping flourish. "You sent for me, Sire?"

Jareth looked up from the scroll he was reading diligently. "It has been three weeks, how does the student do?" Jareth asked with curiosity. He had not seen Sarah in the days and weeks since he'd deflowered her mouth. The bondage master had discouraged him as the girl was not yet properly trained. Not wanting to disrupt the training, Jareth went along with the plan.

"She learns quickly," the master said with caution. "Almost too quickly… I would be very surprised if she didn't have an escape planned."

"As would I," Jareth quipped. "Is she presentable?"

"Without a doubt," Donatien nodded. "Is the apparel ready for her?"

"Joachim and my leather master have created a piece of attire that will make her stand out from all the rest." The King boasted with a haughty smirk. "None will know she's been pierced, her rings will be for my pleasure alone. I will have the garments sent to your wing for your inspection. You will of course have to instruct her on how to dress…"

Donatien leaned on his walking stick. "I disagree," he stated with poise. "She's far more adept at picking up customs than other mortals have been. I do believe that's due to her mother's chosen vocation… the mother is an actress I'm told."

"Yes, Linda Williams was an actress." Jareth said quietly.

"Was?" Questioned the Master of the Guild; "Is the lady dead? I was not aware that the girls mother had passed…"

"She's not dead," Jareth raised a hand to quiet the other. "Linda Williams is now a paramour of the High King."

"Ah," Donatien smirked widely. "That should be interesting… for both of them…" The smile faded slightly. "You intend to display the daughter dressed as a sex slave before the mother? Do you think that prudent?"

"Not a bit," Jareth chuckled darkly. "However I will make it impossible for either of them to connect."

"Wicked," the Mater growled deep in the back of his throat.

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Sarah was looking out the window of the west wing when Donatien returned. He saw something in her that was of quality, and moved to her side without sound. "What is of such interest to you Tagaan," he asked.

"There seems to be so much more to this Kingdom than I experienced upon my first visit, Master Sade." She said. "It's strange, but I feel…connected to the Labyrinth and the lands surrounding it."

"Do you?" He looked out the window as well. "It's a strange and wonderful land, and you are now very much a part of it…and its history." He pointed to a steep range of mountains. "That is where the Harpies now dwell…they too were refugees, like many of the races you'll find here."

"What keeps them all here?" she asked softly, mostly to herself not realizing she'd uttered the question aloud.

"Freedom," Donatien whispered in her ear.

"I am not free," she looked down at the harness.

"You do not as yet understand the power of a Tagaan or Rhuukarlaan," the master of the guild informed her. "You know how to move, and you know how to behave… but you've yet to learn how to be in command."

"The slave has no command," she challenged.

"The slave is the control; the wise slave has power over the master." His voice tantalized her imagination as it was meant to. "Until you give up this foolish idea of escape and accept your station, you will never have power."

Lifting her chin defiantly she looked at the Master. "Who says I'm planning an escape?"

Donatien shook his head, sighing. "You do, Tagaan, you do." Turning he walked to the center of the training room. "Let us review…"

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Bryn looked at the gowns and finery that Devon had sent to her rooms for her approval for the journey to Avalon. If nothing else the man had a good eye, and understood what would and would not work on her. She heard the tapping at the door and looked up to find Devon looking in with a pleasant smile. "The Festival is still a week away," she said looking at the gowns again. "How am I to ever decide in that time what to wear?"

"If I may be of assistance," he said entering her rooms for the first time. "I would suggest this for travel," he pointed to one outfit, "I suggest this one for the grand ball, it will bring out that lovely mossy green in you eyes." He lifted a dress in a shade of sapphire that Bryn would never have chosen herself. "This for day wear…and this." He moved through the gowns quickly. Handing them to be packed by the maid he'd hired to tend to Bryn.

"I agree." She said relieved she didn't have to face this task alone. "Thank you my Lord Baron."

Devon pouted, "I should think such a favor would be deserving of more than a mere thank you."

Bryn noticed the maid had excused herself and they were now alone in her rooms; "Oh really?"

He smoothly placed a hand to her waist, "Come Bryn," he pleaded tenderly. "Give us a kiss." Persistently he nuzzled her. "Come, come, and give us a kiss."

Bryn resisted; "Take back the gowns…" she pulled free of his touch. "I'm not for sale."

Devon stood back, surprised and a bit hurt. "I never said you were."

"Then don't treat me as if I were…" she warned. "I'm not a whore, my Lord Baron."

"No, you're not." He agreed reaching for her hands. "I… just wanted… a kiss…nothing more…I swear."

"I don't like the idea of playing kissing games in the chamber I sleep in." She stated clearly. "It sends the wrong signal."

Devon looked at the room, and seeing her point, pulled her gently out to the hall. "Will this due better?"

Bryn looked into the face of the man who was really trying to be less self-centered and self-seeking; "Actually, yes." She sighed as she moved into his embrace. "Thank you."

"I've promised you," he said as his head rested on hers. "I will not force you, nor rush you…. When we bed, it will be because you are ready to be with me."

"And after," she whispered softly; "What of after?"

Devon tipped her face up to his. "Perhaps we shall live happily ever…after." He lowered his lips to hers softly.

Bryn returned the soft kiss in kind.

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Daisy entered the Scribes private rooms, "Uncle!" she called out. Lutin answered very quickly.

"Captain, I had not thought we'd see you so close to the journey…I'd have thought you had much to prepare for…" Lutin was proud his brother's child was so important in the palace.

"How many of the scrolls has the King read thus far?" She demanded.

Lutin frowned now. "Not nearly as many as I would wish." He pointed to the chamber where the scrolls were laid out. "He keeps jumping around, asking for this and that."

Daisy took off her helmet and tossed it violently across the room and watched as it crashed against the wall. "I swear!" she growled in anger. "I will not stand by and allow the past to become the present!" She turned to her Uncle and warned him. "There is no time to waste; you must direct him to the passages that are important. Have him read the scrolls, any way you can."

"He's preoccupied," Lutin defended himself from her tirade. "He's not playing games, Daisy…he's trying to save the Kingdom."

"All the more reason," she said moving to retrieve her helmet; "That you need to direct his reading to the correct scrolls… don't let him pick and choose…. We don't have the luxury, and neither does he." She placed the dented helmet back upon her head. "He needs to have the information that will save him and her."

"I'm doing my best," Lutin protested.

Daisy flashed him a look that spoke more than the words she then said. "Our best may not be enough…it wasn't before…."

Lutin looked at the scrolls, "You leave in two days time… he'll be here in the morning…I'll direct him to the passages that deal with the presentation of the Tagaan or Rhuukarlaan," he promised.

"Good, that will at least give him food for thought." Daisy said in resignation. "I'm off to the kitchens…the training has given the girl the appetite of a Goblin." She jested lightly.

Lutin chuckled. "I suggest you stay away from peaches…." Both of them chuckled.

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Donatien stood back and assessed the girl's appearance. She stood transfixed before the full length mirror, her mouth agape. "You seem surprised," he observed.

"I am, Master Sade…I am…" she reached out her hand toward the reflection that looked back. "Is that really me?"

Standing behind her and looking at the looking glass as well he smiled with pride. "More than you ever were."

Sarah blinked, the creature in the mirror also blinked. "Covered and yet revealed." She gasped.

"You are… Tagaan or Rhuukarlaan," he breathed at her ear. "Now," he snapped his fingers for her to be attentive, when she looked at him, he moved toward a tray that was covered. "As a graduate of the training, it is my pleasure to award you with these." He pulled the covered off the tray. There were wrist band cuffs and ankle bands, fur lined and ornately decorated with the symbols of the King's great seal and the amulet he wore proudly. "No other but the Tagaan or Rhuukarlaan, herself may wear these."

Sarah looked down at the bands. "I have to admit, they are beautiful," she picked up the ankle band. "Hail Ceaser…." She said before attaching it to her ankle and then the other.

Donatien stood back and watched, knowing she was still up to something; "Tagaan, a suggestion." She looked at him while she fastened the wrist bands. "Before you strike, stop… look… and listen….you may find that the one you think of as your enemy is not."

Sarah considered his words. "Master Sade, may I ask you a question?"

"You may, Tagaan or Rhuukarlaan," he said silkily.

"What did you get out of this arrangement?"

"Validity," he said firmly. Sarah looked thoughtful and he questioned her. "What troubles you?"

"Something someone said to me long ago…." She looked at the Master of the Guild. "I was told when I came here the first time that nothing is as it seems…."

"That is true," he agreed looking at the girl in her beautiful slave's garments. "One looking at you would never guess that you are the girl who beat the Labyrinth…"

Sarah looked at her reflection, and pondered the deeper meaning of his words. "And perhaps, Master Sade…that is a good thing."

"Indeed, Tagaan or Rhuukarlaan," he nodded. "Indeed." He moved to stand behind her. "I have given you the training that you will need… may you use it well." He strode off his long black robe billowing as he moved. "Enjoy your visit to Avalon, but be watchful…remember what I've said."

Sarah stared in the mirror, and nodded. "Where anything is possible, and nothing is as it seems." She whispered, the reflection whispered as well. "And nothing is as it seems."