~Many thanks to Joie Cullen, My awesome Beta who is still sticking with me through my craziness. All characters belong to the wonderful creators of Labyrinth, I own nothing that relates to the story other than that which I have created.~
Vale fidgeted, looking radiant in her sparkling gown, her nervousness made Sophie giggle, to which Sarah could only roll her eyes.
"Your Grace?"
"Vale must we go over this again? You have got to call me Sarah!" Practically gliding over the floor, Sarah took Vale's hands in hers. "What is it Vale?"
"Well, I was wondering if you could tell me of some things…..to which I am ignorant of." The scarlet blush that filled her cheeks left little doubt as to where she was going with this.
"Oh no! I'm sorry Vale but I can't help you there. Maybe her Majesty would feel more comfortable discussing this with you but I am afraid that I am as…unknowing as you are in this situation." Liar, Her conscious screamed at her!
Sarah ignored Sophie's snort, who walked over and grabbed Vale's arm. "Come Vale. I'll tell you what you want to know. No need to ask questions of the scaredy cat."
"Scaredy cat?" Vale's eyebrows drew together in a frown, causing Sophie to laugh.
"I'll explain that too. Come, let us adjourn to the other room. We wouldn't want to injure Sarah's sensibilities." Practically shoving Vale in the other room, Sarah plopped herself down on the nearest chaise, rolling her eyes. When the Queen entered with the flowers she stood once more, wondering how the hell she was supposed to curtsy in this dress. They eyed each other for a moment before bursting out in laughter.
"If you try that you are going to rip that lovely dress from seam to seam."
"Are you a mind reader as well Aireya?"
"Sadly no, that is reserved to Dorian, and partially my husband."
"Partially?"
"Yes, Dracomus can usually only find that which he is seeking, like the answer to a question. He doesn't like to dig around in the minds of others. Dorian on the other hand is a veritable mole. Peeking and Prying for interesting snippets for his amusement alone. Although there are times when it can be quite gratifying."
Sarah groaned, leaning back on the chaise as a beet red Vale and a beaming Sophie re-entered the room.
"Are you well Vale?" The Queen turned, her sudden concern turning her away from the current conversation.
"Yes Aireya. Quite well."
"She's fine. Just a short tutorial before…." Wiggling her eyebrows at the Queen it was Aireya's turn to groan.
"Oh dear…" To which the entire room of young women burst out laughing.
Settled within the grand dining room Garin poured himself yet another drink, only to have Dorian snatch it away. "Courage! She isn't going to bite you know."
"Ye 'ave to teach em that, ye do!" Shaemus grinned, waving his flask of whiskey around.
"You have a dirty mind old man." Rydin lounged against a chair, shaking his head, his mirth unmistakable.
When Jareth entered all heads turned. He was surprisingly dressed down this day. Lacking all the Royal finery befitting him his station. Dorian's raised eyebrow, he shrugged.
"Not my day. His." Motioning with his head to Garin he couldn't help but smirk as his brother swallowed hard. "Nervous?"
"No!" Laughter followed as the King entered, who harrumphed and chose a seat neat the door lest he need to stop his sons escape.
"Is everything ready?" Garin pulled at his cloak, his face flushed.
"Indeed." Rydin and the King answered as one, laughter following once more. Shaemus grinned and stood, wobbling towards the door. Peeking out he could just see the line of people entering the great hall.
"Tis bloody amazin that ye managed to pull t'gether the entire bloody realm for the occasion Milord."
"Yes well, it is a royal wedding after all Shaemus. As members of the court they are required to attend."
"Do they not wish to come merely for the joy of seeing 'im marry?"
"Aye, they do. Twould see the Lady Vale has much of the people's love. Twill do them good to see a prince married off, as my other sons have not yet granted me with such a privilege."
"She'll say yes." All eyes turned to Dorian, who grinned. "Sophie, she'll say yes."
Dracomus stood without speaking, for a moment thinking he meant Sarah. Blast that girl he ought to order her to marry Jareth and be done with it. His wife would have none of it. He was being denied his right to rule in his own home. Grumbling under his breath about bloody women he nearly boomed his fury at Shaemus who began to chuckle, having been close enough to hear. Bloody fool didn't know when to keep shut. Dorian grinned, shaking his head at Jareth's questioning look.
"Come, let us take our places. The line has ended and all our come." Dracomus exited the door, sending Shaemus scurrying in to the great hall. Dracomus walked the isle in silence, taking his place on the throne. Rydin moved to stand just below the dais as the hand of the king. A step below him came Dorian, in front of him, Jareth as station commanded. When the doors opened once more in came Garin and the Queen, he escorting his mother to her seat next to the king. Leaning ever so slightly the Queen mumbled something ever so slightly to Dracomus who's eyebrows rose in surprise. Turning in his seat he motioned Rydin forward. With a low bow he exited the dais, moving to the wall and exiting through a door behind the curtain there. There was some mumbling amongst the crowd, Garin turning to Dorian questioningly.
"It seems our mother and your bride have forgotten a detail of the wedding."
"Well, what is it?" Gritting his teeth it took all Garin had not to snap his brother in half.
"Someone to walk her down the aisle." Jareth and Garin both sucked in a breath in surprise. Shocked that no one had thought to ask Vale if there were someone she would prefer escorting her. With a sigh Garin turned to the doors, patiently waiting.
"I can't believe we forgot!" Vale paced the floor, her face and neck flushed with a rash. Her nerves getting the better of her. She couldn't walk alone! It would be too much! What if she fell? What would the people think? Nearly crying out in despair she moved to throw her bouquet when the door opened and Rydin walked in. Frozen in mid throw she merely stared as he walked up to her grinning.
"I think, Your Highness, that you are going to need that. I was wondering, being that your father was my steward and you were raised of my house if you would allow me the honor of escorting you down the aisle?"
"But…Are you sure Your Grace?"
"Indeed Vale. It would give me much honor to be the one to give you over to your new life. Should you wish it…"
"I am the one who is honored Your Grace." Standing on tiptoe she kissed his cheek, turning to put her arm through his. She grinned at Sophie and Sarah, both teary eyed.
"Oh stop that. You'll make me cry and tis most unfitting!"
"Yes Your Highness." Laughing, Sarah and Sophie ran out the door as Vale squealed in shock behind them.
Sophie startled a bit as the trumpets sounded, an eerily beautiful music began to play and with a deep breath she began to slowly make her way down the long aisle, careful not to move to fast as the dress restricted her steps. Smiling softly she kept her eyes on Dorian since looking at the crowd would only embarrass her. It wasn't every day that thousands of Fae stared you down. Making her way to the steps she stood off to the side, turning to watch Sarah as she too drifted down the aisle. Her dress shimmered with each movement and if Sophie didn't know better she kept her eyes trained on Aireya, ignoring the murmurs that rose of from the crowd. When an Elden whispered about Sarah having concocted the match she merely beamed brighter and kept walking. Passing her mother, step father, and an inflamed Genevieve she couldn't help but pass a glance at her mother, thinking that she should answer the many missives of invitations to go and dine with them. Taking her place before Sophie she turned and watched as the now closed doors opened once more to admit a glowing Vale into the great hall. Rydin beamed proudly, matching her steps, he looked like a proud puffed up papa. When he whispered something to Vale the shock in her eyes was unmistakable, as were the tears that filled them. When they reached the dais, he clasped both her hands in his, lowering his head over them and placing a gentle kiss against her knuckles. The room rumbled in appreciation for such gallantry, and when the King stepped forward a great hush descended, all turning their eyes to the future Princess and her groom. Garin stepped forward and Rydin exchanged hands with Garin, a symbol as old as time, to show his approval for the match. More murmurs went through the crowd, causing Sarah and Sophie to look towards the King in Question. When his booming voice broke out, his smile was wide and his eyes merry.
"It is with great pride that Rydin, Duke of Ivy hands his ward, the Lady Vale over the His Royal Highness, Garin of the High Court. With his blessing the match shall proceed provided there are no objections."
All seemed to wait with bated breath, before the King continued. Sarah droned out as the ceremony began, her eyes finally turning to catch Jareth's who had eyes for no one save her. He stared her down, and the world seemed to fade, today was the day. Had she forgotten? No, absolutely not, though she had tried to put it as far from her mind as possible. The edges of his glamour touched her, causing her to realize that for some reason his appearance was being altered, though she had no idea why. Sarah suddenly realized that the King held something in his hands and turning back to pay attention she saw a circlet of the finest elven silver. It twisted as if vines from some old tree, and then just as there had been one there were now two, broken a part to form two beautiful crowns of twists and diamonds. As Garin bowed low the larger one was placed carefully upon his brow. Taking the second from his father he winked at Vale as she sank into a low curtsy allowing him to lean forward and place it just over the veil on her head. With smiles they turned to the King, who presented Vale with a brooch of the High Court (usually worn for special occasions) and just like that she was a Princess of the High Court. As the clapping rang out, the Fae standing from their seats, Garin swept his new bride into his arms and placed a passionate kiss upon her lips causing the members of the dais to laugh aloud over the deafening roar of approval. Carrying Vale down the aisle, much to her embarrassment they were gone. The bridal party followed the King and Queen out of the great hall and straight to the back of the massive castle, into the meadow beyond. Tents of silk, so fine you could see the stars were set up in a line of three. Table's ladened with silver and gold plating and goblets were everywhere and Vale's lovely wedding colors. The bride and Groom were already seated at their table, laughing and sharing some secret joke. Garin kept an arm around her shoulders, unable to keep his hands from her. Sarah took her seat at Vale's right when suddenly Jareth sat down at her own. Turning to give him an odd look he motioned to his mother who smirked and waved at them from the assembly line.
"Aren't you supposed to be up there?"
"No. Today is only for my brother. Only my parents will greet the guests. Customs are slightly different for a wedding of such magnitude. He is the first royal married since my sister."
"Ahhh.." At a loss for words Sarah reached for the water goblet in front of her and took a sip only to find the most delicious tasting wine. Surprised at its clarity she lifted the goblet to look inside as if she could determine its origins.
"Tis Elven." Shrugging she took a large gulp, hoping to steady her nerves. Soon, she would have to answer his question. A little shakily she placed the goblet back down, turning to glare at Jareth as his hand closed over hers. "Nervous Precious?"
"Wouldn't you like to know." As the dancing started Sarah left her seat, joining her grandfather to take a turn about the floor. He smiled down at her, paying little attention to the looks thrown their way.
"You look radiant today Sarah. I hope you don't mind the turn I did for Vale?"
"Not at all. I was rather happy that you did."
"It does not bother you that I have taken her as a ward into the family?"
"Did you now? No, I am rather surprised but it is quite nice having a sister I might actually get along with." Snickering she turned to look at Genevieve who glared at her from the corner.
"Actually, she is considered your Aunt." He laughed at Sarah's shocked expression, whipping her to the other side of the room as he saw Jareth approaching.
"Wow."
"Indeed. Do you mind at all that you will be giving her a portion of the finances from your estate? It is required, now that I have brought her in to the family."
"Grandfather, I don't need the money I have now. Vale and her family are most welcome to it. Her mother and her sister will be most grateful, and now I can move them in to Ivy and they can't argue!" Chuckling, he continued to deftly maneuver her away from Jareth's attempts to get near enough to cut in. He wasn't done talking to her, yet.
'Well I am glad you approve. We will work it all out soon enough. You have a question to answer to tonight I do believe."
"Mmhmm that I do."
"And have you the answer?"
"You need not worry for me grandfather. I shall always endeavor to never disappoint you."
"You could never disappoint me my heart. You are a joy I was sorely missing in my life. I pray to the Gods that you know that for all of our days together. Now I must give you up. I can no longer divert him or I shall be shamed for being the most horrendous of dancers."
"One request grandfather?"
"Yes my dear."
"Go dance with Vale's mother. She looks lonely."
Quirking an eyebrow at her he bowed low, kissing her hand before turning to place it in Jareth's. "Decorum Your Majesty."
"Always Your Grace." Bowing to each other they seemed to take a measure before Rydin turned away and made a beeline for Vale's mother who blushed and giggled in shock.
"You, my Precious, are match making."
"It can't hurt." Laughing loudly he swept her into his arms as the waltz began, smirking like a fool as the other Fae looked on expectantly.
"Jareth, I'm warning you now, if you embarrass me in front of the court I will cause the scene of all scenes."
"I shall be charm and grace and nothing else." He smirked down at her as she snorted in a most unladylike fashion. He never tired of her hilarious quirks, it brought him solace in the quiet insanity of his mind.
"Why the Glamour?"
"You noticed?" At her nod he sighed, moving her towards a more secluded part of the tent. "I have been tired lately. It would not do to show up at my brother's wedding looking as if the world has ended."
"Is it really so bad as all that Jareth?"
"Yes. It is. You drive me to madness, Sarah. I for one cannot wait for this night to be over." And our fates to be decided. But he didn't say it. Oh no, better to not antagonize her. There would be plenty of that for when she said no, if she said no.
By the end of the night Sarah had reached tipsy proportions, though she believed she was managing to hide it quite well. After all, singing songs of Ireland in the corner with Shaemus who waved his flask about and complemented her on being the most 'Bonnie wee lass o 'the whole o the Underground' wasn't so bad was it? Sophie stared on trying hard to keep a straight face, the King and Queen were too in shock, and Rydin merely pretended as if it wasn't happening and the headache he had coming on were merely from the drink, not his granddaughter acting like a nut. Thank the Gods that many of the Elden had left and that the better portion of the court were Fae of the realm. They too laughed and drank and made merry. The dancing became faster, the music louder, and even the High King and Queen couldn't help but join in, much to the shock of the few Elden who remained. Jareth sat in his corner, smoking his cigar, keeping an eye on Sarah. The girl would be the death off him, but if he passed into the fade, let it be on such a night as this. Taking a sip of the wine, so caught up in Sarah, he saw it too late as Genevieve plopped herself down in the seat next to him.
"Mother tells me that we are to be guests of Your Majesty's in a few days' time. Tis exciting, is it not?"
Trying hard not to roll his eyes at the girl, his smirk faded as she placed a tiny hand against his thigh. Of course Sarah just had to catch eyes with him at that moment. He assumed that the red flooding her face was neither from the drink, and since it was rather cool out that could be disregarded as well. Standing, she began to make her way towards them, and if the fury in her eyes was anything to go bye he had better get rid of the little git, and fast.
"Milady, It is treasonous to touch a member of the Royal Court, especially without their permission. As to your visit, that remains to be seen. I will send a missive to your parents in the morning. For now, I suggest you remove yourself as I have a matter to discuss.." Turning to look at her he gave her his most sinister stare. "With your sister."
Eyes widening in shock Genevieve stood and walked off in a huff, in search of her mother. Sarah sank down in to the chair next to Jareth, keeping her eyes straight ahead, if only to clear her vision of the red haze that covered it.
"You have no reason to be jealous Precious."
"Is she not promised to you Jareth?" His growl did nothing for her. Such a waste.
"Shaemus?"
"Indeed."
"That Irishman should be taken to task."
"You'll have to go through me first. Then Sophie. Then…"
"I get the point Sarah."
"Good."
"I believe you and I have a matter to discuss with my parents, Rydin as well."
"Hmmm…where are they?"
"Awaiting in the tent, just there. It is the only one that is no longer in use. Shall we?" He stood and offered her his arm, holding it a bit tighter than normal as she seemed to sway a bit. "Sarah, how much of that wine did you drink?"
"A glass…or three?" Giggling, she stumbled a bit, then looking around reached down to remove her shoes and lob them out in to the meadow without a care in the world. Shaemus guffawed, Vale blushed, Sophie and the others laughed.
"Are you alright Sarah?" She couldn't miss the concern in his voice, even though her brain was a bit fuzzy. Her arm began to tingle slightly where his hand covered it and for a mere second she allowed herself to entertain the fact that she might feel a bit ill. Passing it off as nerves for the coming meeting she shook her head and continued on, stopping at the entrance of the tent to see Rydin and the High King and Queen deep in talk. Jareth led her to a chair and sat next to her. Without waiting for the conversation to begin he turned to Rydin.
"With your permission?" When his head bowed in acknowledgment Jareth turned from his chair, swept his cloak aside to lower himself to one knee and opened the box in his hand. Sarah's breath caught in her throat and her eyes closed, swaying slightly in her chair.
"What say you Sarah? Have you the Courage to be my wife and Queen of the Goblins?" Well when he put it like that! Her eyes snapped open and without warning she let out a cry of pain, slumping to the ground. When a flowery perfume assaulted his senses Jareth's eyes went flat black, turning to his parents in shock, he stood. "The Healer. Get the Healer."
Rydin ran from the tent as Jareth lifted Sarah in his arms, ignoring her groan he maneuvered her face against his chest lest the others hear it. When the scent began to strengthen the High King moved forward, his shock now evident as well.
"The Gods preserve us. Her changing is upon her."
"What?" The High Queen could barely squeak it out before a shocked Rydin froze in place, the Healer at his side.