~As usual I own nothing but what I came up with. All credit goes to the Labyrinth. I didn't give proper credit to my Beta, Joie Cullen, who totally rocks and inspires me to keep writing with her awesome reviews and beta comments. So thanks Joie, this one goes out to you.~
Sarah awoke as the sun began to filter through the open terrace doors. Rolling over, her slightly sore and tired body groaned in protest. Sitting up, she pulled the sheet to cover her undressed form, watching as Jareth entered the room from the bath, covered only in his breeches, and smiling at her. Moving to the bed she let out a small squeal, laughing with him as he lifted her from the bed, sheet and all, to carry her in to the wash room. A steaming bath awaited her, rose scented, causing her to purr with delight.
Tugging the sheet from her shocked fingers, she gasped as he gently lowered her into the water. Laying her head back her face turned beet red a she heard the rustle of what could only be a de-clothing Jareth. Without warning he slid into the water, pulling her into his lap. His hands moved gently over her shoulders, bringing a delicious moan of pleasure from her lips as he massaged the soreness away.
"Did I hurt you precious?"
"No Jareth. You didn't hurt me. I think this was to be expected was it not?"
"Perhaps." Leaning forward he placed a soft kiss on her shoulder, reveling in the power of being able to make her shudder and squirm against his lap. "Careful precious. I would not wish to make you even more so uncomfortable than you are now. You should lay abed today and get some rest."
"I can't. I have to help Vale prepare for her wedding. Come this next weekend I must have her ready to become a Princess. Thank the Gods she is so proper otherwise I'd be frantic."
"You'll do lovely my dear. Now come, let us get you out of this bath and dressed."
Sarah could only be thankful that Vale was no longer her attendant, being that she was about to be a wife. Vale was a bit put out but Sarah would not have a future princess dressing her and doing her hair. Since a new hand maiden had not been chosen Jareth would have to suffice. Giggling, she sputtered as Jareth pushed her under the water, laughing at her as she came up dripping.
"Your hair needs washing, precious." Splashing a fistful of water at him they began to splash and laugh, only settling down so that he could gently wash her long locks. Sighing with pleasure he rinsed her, lifting her from the bath once more to wrap her in a warm towel and carry her to the bed. He began to rub her down, intent on drying her when she squealed and shook her head. At his puzzled look she grinned and explained.
"That will only lead to other things which you have assured me, my liege, is not in my best interest."
Smirking, Jareth waved his hand and she was dried and dressed, his smirk giving her cause to roll her eyes. He'd placed her in a gown of green, his preference of course, it being the one he had given her. He dressed himself to match, a green doublet over his black poet's shirt and black breeches.
Seated on the terrace, they both turned as the door opened and Aireya, the High King, and Rydin walked in. No one seemed shocked to see them there, no one mentioning the impropriety of it all. "Mother, Father, a good morning to you." Both standing, Rydin did not fail to miss that as Sarah curtsied and Jareth bowed, the Goblin King kept his hand on Sarah's elbow.
"I have come to discuss a matter of great importance with you, Jareth. Would you care to adjoin or do you wish to speak in the presence of Her Grace?" The King sat, bowing his head to them both. Aireya chose to sit next to her son, Rydin moving to sit next to Sarah.
"You may discuss what you like in front of Her Grace, father." Jareth couldn't hide his smirk. He could see instantly that his father was perplexed at his behavior. Though no one knew what had transpired last night nor this morning and he intended to keep it that way. Thank the Gods for cloaking magic.
"His Grace, Rydin, has brought it to our attention that he is not exactly comfortable with Sarah's openly display of affection, nor yours. As her grandfather and keeper it is his job to protect Sarah, even from herself." Sarah's head whipped around to her grandfather who merely stared into her eyes without flinching, without blinking. They stared at each other for some time, the King and Queen suddenly becoming invisible to the both.
"I understand your concern father. Please tell me, what is it that you wish of me? I will do all I can to honor any request that you should put forth."
The Queen stiffened slightly, waiting. The conversation between Rydin and Dracomus had not been discussed with her and she feared what her husband's next words might be.
"Has Your Grace decided what your fate shall be?" Now it was Jareth's turn to have his head whip around, all eyes suddenly on Sarah as the King no longer addressed his son.
"I am not sure I understand you Your Majesty."
"You seem very fond of my son, Your Grace, and I would know your answer to his suit."
"Firstly, I was not aware that there was a suit involved. No one informed me that Jareth had any intentions towards me. Secondly, other than my changing, which doesn't seem as close as the healer thought it would be, I don't understand the rush for me to marry anyone." It was all she could do to pretend not to notice Jareth's sharp intake of breath.
"It is not your answer that I so readily need, however, I would like your assurance that you do not want my son before I arrange his marriage to another."
It was Sarah's turn to gasp. Facing Jareth their eyes met and held. The silence stretched on as all waited patiently for her response. Slowly, she lowered her head, eyes staring at the ground, heart pounding in her ears. He was to be married if she turned down his suit? A decision today. Hadn't she already made it? Why was she questioning herself now? It was then that the answer came to her. She may not wish to marry anyone, but that didn't mean she wanted him taken from her. Knowing full well that if he married there would be no more visits. Jareth would be faithful to his wife, whether he wanted her or no. And that would be it. All would end. There would be no more worries. No more fighting. But there would also be no more passion. Was one night all she would have with him? Jareth shifted in his seat. He could see the war going on in her head, knew that this was not what she wanted.
"Might I speak?" As the words left his lips his precious, his love, raised her head to meet his eyes. They locked and held once more, still he spoke.
"Proceed, my son." Aireya spoke first, knowing what this was costing her son. She too waited with baited breath. So Dracomus and Rydin decided to press their hand. This could end so badly. An eternity of misery.
"Might I request that Her Grace be given time to make her decision, say until the eve of Garin and Vale's wedding. Tis only a week. Should she decide she will not welcome my hand I will do as you ask without an argument, and marry any girl of my Liege's choosing." He itched to reach out and wipe the tear that strolled down Sarah's cheek. He stayed his hand and waited, breaking contact to look at his father who seemed to be considering his words.
"Sarah, is this agreeable to you?" Rydin leaned forward and placed his hand over Sarah's, sadness etching lines across his features. He simply could not stand to watch them together anymore, knowing that things would go too far should this fiery passion between them continue unchecked.
"Yes Grandfather, if their Majesties would permit it." All turned to face the High King and Queen. Dracomus stood, taking his wife's hand and bringing her with him.
"You have one week Sarah. If you decide that you will not have him I will marry him off. He has chosen and so now must you." Sarah could only nod as the King and Queen left, turning on the spot, going who knows where. Rydin stood, leaning to kiss Sarah's hand before releasing it.
"Why?"
Rydin wiped at the tears trickling down her cheeks. "You know why Sarah. It cannot continue. Jareth must marry. It was announced just before you came that he would marry within the year and was seeking an eligible wife. An announcement must be made, and soon. If you will not have him you must let him go." Turning he left, closing the door behind him, etiquette for once ignored, knowing they needed to talk.
Sarah stared out over the railing of the terrace, her eyes on the Goblin Kingdom. Jareth stood behind her, hands wrapped around her waist, holding her tightly. His eyes shut, he simply breathed in her scent, knowing that in a weeks' time his life would be decided for him, and only she could release him from his agony.
"I am not ready. I will not be ready in a week." Turning to face him she buried her face in his chest, letting the tears falls silently against his shirt.
"Why Sarah? What have you to fear from me? I would but be your slave if you would have me. I want no other, only you. We would make beautiful babies, precious. Everything you desire would be yours. Can you not love me as I love you?"
Whispering against his chest, Sarah shuddered as she answered, terror wracking her frame. "I am in love with you."
Crushing her against him, he laid his head against her neck, finally breathing a sigh of relief. "Marry me precious. Release me from my agony and agree to be my wife."
"Will you give me the week Jareth?" She clutched him tightly as he stiffened; afraid he meant to pull away. "No, please, listen to me, Jareth. You asked me to fear you and I do. You alone have the power to break me as I have never been broken. I couldn't survive that again. There is nothing special about me. I am an ordinary girl, half mortal, and I shall always be thus. Forever is indeed a long time. Can you truly say that you would love me forever and not cast me aside?"
"I can and I will!" He growled against her throat, holding her tightly. "Have you no faith in my love for you? Why must you doubt me so when I have done all that I know to show my love for you?"
"I know you are right. I am just so afraid. Give me time."
"Sarah, Champion of my Labyrinth and my heart, is afraid. You never cease to amaze me, precious. I will give you the time that you need. I pray to the Gods that in time you will see that I am truly yours. Always, even should another claim the right to sit by my side."
Gasping at his words, she clutched at him tightly, and so they stood, staring together out at either their future or their doom.
Vale stood before the seamstress in complete awe. This could not be her. A beautiful pale blue creature, in a gown of the purest white, covered in sparkling diamonds from her soon to be husbands family mine, could not believe that in three days she would be a princess. The train flared out, long behind her, and the veil swept over her hair, down to match the length of train on the floor. She truly looked a princess.
Little Alyssa, in her own poufy princess gown stared at her sister, mouth hanging open, in complete and utter admiration. "Vale bootiful!" The women laughed, The High Queen coming up behind them to place a crown upon Vale's head. "She's right my dear, you look utterly ravishing. Garin has chosen quite well for himself if I do say so. After Saturday next I shall call you daughter. What a wondrous occasion this shall be."
Sarah smiled watching them, her own dress of pale green shimmering, though she allowed no jewels to be added. This was Vale's day and as such she wanted no attention on herself. The gown was not typical of the Underground, strapless, with a complete mermaid design from waist to ankle it was much more modern, and Vale however loved it. Sophie walked around in hers, trying to get the feel of it.
"Sarah how DO you walk in this blasted thing!" More laughter rang out as Rydin entered the shop.
"Forgive my intrusion ladies but I have brought Vale her requested grooms ring and gift. I thought perhaps she might like to view them before I pack them away amongst your other things." He couldn't hide his grin, smiling at Sarah who gave him a wink.
"Oh yes! Please!" Rushing over to Rydin she pulled the ring out, a blood dragon stone, something Sarah had helped her find on Ivy lands. It was a fitting size for a prince of the realm, nearly the size of the High Kings, and the Elven gold vines surrounding and crossing over the heart of the stone made it look almost tree like. It was exactly what she had wished for. The second box was rather long, and at everyone's odd look Vale smiled and pulled the material from the depths, reveling in their gasps of surprise.
"Why Vale, its gorgeous! How amazing! Where ever did you find it?" Turning to all the ladies she held the softest fabric they had ever seen. An Elven cloak of the finest material it shimmered like the night sky, twinkling here and there. Each moon diamond giving its own brilliance of fire to the material.
"I had it made for Garin, thinking he might like to wear it on our wedding day. Sarah helped me mine the stones and I let the Elves' keep whatever did not make it into the cloak for payment, plus a few other choice stones. They were well paid and there is none other like it."
"Why with all that glimmer I think Jareth shall be jealous!" Peals of laughter followed the High Queens comment, Vale handing the items back over to Rydin.
"Thank you so much Your Grace. I am truly grateful. I know how much time it must have cost you to help me."
"You are most welcome Milady. I would not have said no for the world. You have been most kind to my granddaughter and soon you will be a princess of the realm. It is my greatest pleasure to serve the royal family."
"Alright now Rydin. Out with you. We must get these dresses off and ready for transport."
"Yes, My Queen." He bowed and exited the room, taking Vale's gifts with him to pack away in the carriage.
Vale, so caught up in her wedding plans missed Sarah's saddened behavior and was unable to pinpoint a place to Rydin that she may be when he came in search of her. It appeared that as soon as they returned to Ivy Sarah left, seeking peace from the joy and happiness that radiated throughout.
Sarah sat quietly by the pond, leaning against the unicorn that had chosen to come and sit with her awhile. Her only movement was to gently stroke the mane before her, leaning her head against its neck as the tears fell. When the Unicorn stirred she turned to see Jareth approach. Watching him warily, she continued her vigil, neither moving nor speaking. When he sat before her and opened his arms she readily leapt into them, crying softly. No one spoke as he stroked her back, removing his gloves to carefully wipe at her tears. He knew the war that was going on within her. Had come to discuss just that.
"Sarah, you do understand that as my Queen you may be under my rule, but you will rule in your own right as well? I will not command you about or decide your life for you. It will remain yours to do with as you wish, so long as you do not put yourself in danger."
"How can I believe that what you say is the truth. I am defiant Jareth. I can be angry."
"We are the same, you and I. If you would but see it. I've brought you a gift."
Sitting up she smiled at him, even through her tears. The crystal in his hand transformed slowly, shifting and changing into a large square box that just barely fit the palm of his hand. "Would you like to open it Sarah?"
Moved beyond words she could not speak so merely shook her head at him. Opening the box it seemed both their breath had stopped, Sarah stared at the gift, Jareth stared at her eyes. He could see the shock first, then the pain. Then it was there, the little sparkle that said this meant something to her and his hope returned. "Do you like it my love?"
"It's beautiful, Jareth."
"Will you wear it?"
Sighing she shook her head no, the glorious princess cut Emerald and Diamond ring glared angrily at her, practically shouting that she should take it. Suddenly without warning the color shifted and it became a beautiful Sapphire. When the box snapped shut Sarah met Jareth's eyes.
"You said you would give me the rest of the week."
"I merely want you to be aware that I mean what I say Sarah. I will ask you to be my wife. I will expect an answer."
"You're awfully bossy today Jareth."
"Perhaps it is because my patience grows thin. My heart craves for you Sarah, I wish to know if you will be my wife."
"You haven't asked." She huffed, turning red in the face.
"Would you like me to?"
"Two more days. That is all. Have you no patience?"
"It is certainly not one of my many virtues my love."
Laughing, Sarah swatted at his hand, the ring now in his pocket in the forefront of her mind. Startled when he cupped her face and kissed her she took no time in responding, throwing herself at him till he was on his back on the ground. Breathless and content she sat up, ignoring the satisfied smirk on Jareth's face.
"Is that why you came? To gloat about the ring you wish to give me?"
"No, the alarm was raised at Ivy. You have been "missing" for some time."
"You knew where to find me."
"I will always know where to find you. We are bonded, you and I since….." he let his voice trail off, but the wiggling of his eyebrows was enough to go by. A blush lit Sarah's cheeks, still a bit in shock that she had been willing to take things so far. Needing to feel something other than the pain she decided to give in to her wants for once. At least it had been well worth it.
"Rydin approaches." Sarah nodded towards the meadow, watching as her grandfather stalked towards the.
"Thank you, Your Highness, for alerting me to Sarah's location. It has grown dark and she has been gone since before lunch. I am sure she is hungry." Offering his arm he helped Sarah to her feet. Tucking it through his own he began the short trek back to Ivy, not bothering to magic them there.
"It is no problem Rydin. I would check the meadow first, it seems that Sarah finds comfort in her Unicorns."
"If you two would be so kind as to stop talking about me as if I am not here I would like my dinner and a warm bed. Jareth, would you care to join us for dinner?"
"If My Lady wishes it. I shall cancel my evening meetings."
"Oh Jareth don't!" She ignored Rydin's puzzled look. "I don't want to take you away from your duties."
"You aren't Sarah. I merely had a meeting with mother. If it is agreeable to you I will invite her to Ivy to dine and perhaps we can have our discussion there?"
"That would be wonderful. I love visiting with her."
Sitting in the study Jareth eyed his mother from his seat in front of the desk. "Well, have you asked her?"
"No mother." Chuckling he leaned forward, running a hand through his already wild hair. "She is not ready yet and I will not pressure her ad risk driving her away."
"I cannot believe your father has done this, I have a good mind to return to my old quarters! That would teach him a thing or two!"
Laughing loudly, Jareth shook his head at her. His father would be in a full terror if his mother took her old suite back. It had been sometime since she had used it and when she did very few people saw her and for a very long time. "I don't think this is as severe as all that mother."
"Do you not love this girl? How can you say that?"
"Sarah is stubborn but she is not stupid. I'll press my hand if I have to."
"And how do you propose to do that?"
"Well that is for me to know. She might be angry for a while but I think eventually she will come around."
"My dear son, best you not to think of such a course. Sarah has a mighty temper and if you think to sway it easily I think you will have a full out war on your hands."
"But the making up would be so stimulating…" he barely ducked in time as a nearby vase whizzed by his head.
Sarah sat much on the terrace these days, staring out over Ivy and the Goblin Kingdom beyond. Jareth had come and gone, bidding her goodnight with a warm kiss and a twinkle in his eye. The light from his study seemed so far away as she desperately searched for an answer to what he asked, what they all asked of her. Could she really give up her only freedom? Rydin had made it clear that at some point, especially with her title and estate, she would be required to marry. With a heavy sigh she slumped against the chaise, turning her head as the Queen appeared to sit across from her.
"It is a lovely night, isn't it Sarah?"
"Beautiful Aireya. Though I am afraid that my thoughts distract me and keep me from truly enjoying it."
"Have you decided on your answer yet?"
"No. I long to give him what he wants. What you all want. I never thought I would be so terrified."
"You are young dearest. My son is well beyond his years in wisdom and in truth I think he would not want you so if he truly did not love you."
"I know." Squeakem came bounding in to the room, crossing to the terrace and rolling to a stop at Sarah's feet.
"Squeakem. What a lovely surprise. Is everything okay?"
"Yes perty lady. Squeakem leave Kingy to his work and get out of way. Kingy look sad and like he crazy man perty lady! Squeakem no like to sit and watch king stare in silence. Creepy it is. Scares Squeakem."
Sighing, Sarah pinched the bridge of her nose. "Is he always like this Squeakem?"
"Only after seeing perty lady."
"Squeakem I wonder if you might fetch me a drink of water perhaps?" Aireya smiled at him as he squeaked and ran from the room, knocking over a table and scattering books. Hearing of Jareth's tortured state would not help the situation.
"Does Squeakem come visit you often."
"Only lately Aireya. Only when Jareth is lost in his own little world apparently."
"How often does he come?"
"Nearly every night for a few weeks now."
Since the night she went to see him apparently. Sighing Aireya stood and moved to the balcony, lowering her head for a moment to take a deep breath lest Sarah see her grief. She was shocked when a hand reached out to cover hers. Turning she met Sarah's stare.
"I would not hurt him if I could avoid it, Your Majesty."
"So you will decide?"
"I have decided Aireya. I can no longer ignore this. There is only one way I can see this ending."
"And…?" Holding her breath Aireya waited for her answer.
"Well…"
~Authors note: Thanks to everyone who reviewed! I tried to get back to you all and if I missed you I do heartily apologize! Hope you enjoy this little tidbit. Feel free to leave a contribution in the little box.~