Chapter 12

Alliances

"Mortals should not be welcomed with open arms into such a place where we exist. And if they are so permitted, it should not be for them to walk about freely. They should serve us. Look how they chased our being from the Above so long ago. Until we all became myth. Fairytales. Mere stories to be told. They nearly wiped out the dragons, and yet, there are those who wish to allow them here." Olaris spun around with his arms held wipe apart. "Here in our beautiful Great City. Now, I am certain that-"

Jareth stood behind him with his arms crossed. "Cetain that you believe that mortals are below the status of Fae. And I suppose that you have those loyal to yourself who believe the same as you. Some things never change. And some things do." He approached the Head Council and bowed. " Jareth, Majesty of the Goblin Kingdom."

An elderly man, who sat highest behind a white pulpit narrowed his gaze. " We have heard that you wish to take a mortal as your wife, Jareth."

"Rathcart, it is true. She is here with me now. In this city. Though I wouldn't say she will be mortal much longer. The change has already started taking place."

"So I have heard. You know that Underground law clearly states that you must have the prior consent of the Council to bring a mortal here. Especially with the purpose of marraige." The old man stood up, revealing his long white beard, and his flowing robe.

Jareth nodded his head slowly. "Forgive me, but I felt it necessary to do so. And there isn't much that can be done now. Should she be sent Above, she will die."

Olaris snorted. "The death of another mortal. Like it should matter. They thought nothing of killing us, or using us as slaves to do their biddings."

"It was a long time ago, Olaris." Jareth spoke levelly. "We need the belief of mortals to survive Above. And there isn't much of that any longer. And I will not see her die. And when she is a Fae, Fae laws shall apply to her."

"Rathcart, it should not be permitted for a mortal born to become a queen here. And Jareth clearly went above the Council. He should be punished. And she should be sent back to where she came from." Olaris stared at Rathcart hoping that he would take sides with him. It was to no avail.

"The change has already begun in her. There is nothing to be done about it. But she does realize that she shall have to live by the rules of the Fae. And that going Above will never be an option for her." His tone was serious, and Olaris' expression showed his displeasure with the current events which were now currently taking place infront of him.

"She has been made aware of all, and is being schooled in Fae ways. She is young, so I have little doubt that it shall be very long before it seems as though she were always a part of the Underground." Jareth let a small smile creep on to his face. He knew that Sarah would be pleased with the news which he now held. "So I take it that we now have the blessing of the Council?"

Rathcart smiled. "Council or no Council, we believe that you would have done this. But these are grave times, Jareth. I wish to speak to you privately later on."

Jareth bowed to the council members. They were whispering among themselves. He knew that they had reached a decision on the matter long before he and Sarah had reached the Great City. But he also knew that Olaris was not takinig this news lightly. And it would be important indeed for Rathcart to want to speak to him privately. Something was amiss. But he decided not to press the matter. The meeting had passed quickly. And he believed it to be due to the fact that Olaris had been present.

As he passed Olaris, heading for the doors, Olaris grabbed him by the shoulder and spun him around.

"You can take a mortal girl for your bride, but you could not take my sister, and form an allegiance between our two kingdoms. I find this strange, Jareth. Are you certain that your parents woould have approved of such a thing?" He stared at Jareth's fixed expression. "Oh, I forgot, your father was just as much a traitor to the Fae as you are. Taking a mortal. Allowing her to change into a Fae. And bearing you as an heir. Why, I suppose that makes you only half Fae, with less than half the loyalty."

"For whatever concern it is of yours, Olaris, my mother became a Fae, and I was born as such. Sarah shall do the same. And you shall never have the Goblin Throne. Do I make myself clear?" Jareth pushed his hand from his shoulder, and began to walk away. He halted as Olaris spoke.

"And truly, does she know about the past? Of all the consequences this decision has now caused in her future? Does she know how powerful my armies are? Perhaps you should do the noble thing for all concerned, and just surrender your kingdom to me now."

"Olaris, I already told you. You will never have my kingdom. It has been my family's legacy for millenia. And it shall continue to be such. Now, I bid you good day. I have an engagement to attend to."

Outside the door, Rathcart was waiting for him. Jareth stepped to the side. They were under Olaris's constant watch.

"I am most happy for you, Jareth. I am certain your father would be most proud."

Jareth bowed his head. " I thank you for the blessing of the council. How was the decision so easily made with Olaris now head?"

"The vote was cast and the majority ruled. I voted in favor. As you know, I was friends with your father before his untimely passing. For some reason I always knew you would wed a mortal. Just as your father did, you hold a strange fascination with mortal women." He smiled, and clapped him on the back.

"Woman.", Jareth corrected. Just then he spotted Damien with Sarah. Jareth smiled, and motioned for her to join him and Rathcart. "Lady Ssrah, I am pleased to introduce you to Rathcart, council member." Sarah bowed her head slightly.

"It's a pleasure to meet you, Sir." She was blushing slightly. Somewhat shy.

"A fine young lady you are, Lady Sarah. And how do you find the Underground?"

"It's beautiful. I have never seen anything like it anywhere. I was so happy when Jareth decided to allow me to come back."

A look of alarm spread over Jareth's face. "What do you mean, 'come back'? Are you implying that you were already here.?" A look of comprehension came over him. "You are the one whom he allowed to defeat him, aren't you, my dear?" Sarah nodded. "My, my." Rathcart smiled. "Like father, like son."

"Is there something I don't know about?", she asked.

"Sarah,", Jareth closed his eyes, and smiled. "This is how my parents came to be. My mother ran the Labyrinth. And they fell in love."

Sarah was in shock. "I see.", was all she could manage to say.

"Ah, the happy couple.", came a voice. Sarah spun around, to see a strange figure approaching the trio. "Such a beautiful creature, Jareth. Surely you don't intend to keep her all to yourself."

"Olaris, stay out of this. You are not welcomed.", Jareth warned.

He picked up Sarah's hand, and placed a gentle kiss upon it. "You are such a young thing. Perhaps fifteen? Sixteen, in mortal years?"

"I'm sixteen.", she whispered.

"I am glad to meet you. And I wish to extend my blessing to the both of you." He flicked his white mane.

"If you'll excuse us, we have to go.", Jareth said apologetically.

"Might I join you both?", Olaris asked. "Perhaps Morianna would like to join us as well." Sarah opened her mouth to reply, but Jareth began to push her towards the exit. "Oh, come come, Jareth. Keeping such a pretty little thing all to yourself. Why, I would think that you would have her mingling with the rest of us. After all, she is going to be the future Goblin Queen. You must start taking her out and about."

"She is being schooled in the Fae ways. I promise you that, Olaris. But what concern it is of yours, I have no idea. But I do suggest you keep your nose out of both mine, and my kingdom's affairs.", Jareth scowled. His grip on Sarah's shoulder tightened.

Olaris watched the couple as they headed for the main doors. Then he called out, "So I do suppose that Morianna and myself will not be receiving an invitation to the wedding ceremony."

Jareth didn't even bother to return a reply. He was enraged.

"Jareth,", Sarah whispered. "Jareth, c'mon. Stop. You're hurting me."

He stopped for a moment and looked at her pale face. "Sarah, you are forbid from having any contact with that creature. I mean this. It is for your own good."

She looked into his mismatched eyes, hoping to see something that would make him seem more human like. "Jareth, I listen to you, and only you. What else do you want?"

He paused for what seemed like an eternity. Down the large hall, he could see Rathcart watching them, still accompanied by Olaris. Olaris in his pure white attire, with his steel colored eyes watching them, namely Sarah, intently.

Truth be told, for once in his eternal life, Jareth was frightened. It was strange how love could change everything in your world. Tip everything upside down. But when he looked at Sarah, he was actually afraid for once in his life. He knew that Olaris being polite usually meant that he was plotting something. And for some reason, Jareth felt that it was the demise of he, himself, and the Goblin Kingdom. What would happen to Sarah though, that was his fear. To see her tangled in his grasp caused a fury to build in his mind and body, as well as his soul.

"We will leave early tomorrow morning, Love. I want us to get back to the Goblin City as soon as possible. I will ensure that Maddie will have the luggage packed."

"But, aren't we suppose to visit with Lord and Lady Byron tonight?", she asked, raising her eyebrow. "And you promised me a wedding gown." She smiled wanly.

He smiled down at her, as he draped his arm about her slender shoulders. "I know, Love. And so we shall do that immediately. A beautiful gown for my beautiful bride."

Rathcart smiled as he watched the two depart the Great Hall. He knew something was beginning to happen in the Underground. And olaris was at the forfront of it all. It was one word. War. Plain and simple. Olaris had the armies. And the support. That's how he became the leader of the council. His armies invoked the fear of the outer lying communities which surrounded his kingdom. Mostly comprised of trolls and the likes, his kingdom was a desolate wasteland. When in his absence, his wife, and queen, Morianna, ruled with an iron fist. Issuing death sentences was her most favorable form of torture. It brought fear to the inhabitants. And fear brought loyalty.

Rathcart had never much cared for Olaris, or his ancestors. He had been friends with Jareth's family for generations. Having seen most of them die in battle. Jareth had always been like a son to him though. In the early times, when Jareth had assumed the Goblin Throne after the slaying of his parents, Rathcart had been his advisor. Advising him in courtly matters, and teaching him how to be a just and fair king. He knew that Jareth had always had a strange fascination for all things mortal, just as his father had had. In a way, he had always hoped that Jareth would have chosen a Fae princess to be his wife, but, to speak to him of such was a futile endeavor. His pride and dignity were always first and formost. And to see him with this mortal girl, acting as though he did, Rathcart knew that his mind had been set, and the girl had captured his heart.

And so, he smiled as he watched the two leave, secretly wishing that Olaris would give up his position in the Council. Perhaps then, all things would return to as they once were.

"I take it that you were aware, long before I, that he intended to wed a mortal, Rathcart. Perhaps that is why the Council overruled me so quickly. You should know, that soon certain laws will be passed. Laws prohibiting you from doing such." Olaris tightened his white gloves.

"And just who is going to pass these laws?", Rathcart spoke softly. "Surely not the council. For you shall not have any votes from us. This system was set down long before you or your parents were born, Olaris. And I fear that I do not forsee any reform in the future."

"I may not have the support of the Council, but I do have the support of most of the outer kingdoms, who have sided with me. I would stay out of all affairs. Including those of this upcoming wedding."

"Olaris, take your thoughts and beliefs back to the Troll Kingdom. What you are trying to do is impossible. There will be those who will oppose you. And I believe you have already found one enemy, amongst others whom will arise in the near future. I'm afraid that you're fate shall be much the same as your parents. A quest for conquest is a futile one."

"Save your prophecies, old man!", Olaris snorted. He circled Rathcart, nearly breathing down the old man's neck. " I am the future of the Underground. No one controls my destiny but me. It always has been, and always will be that way. And Jareth will be an obsticle who will be shortly removed. As will any others who decide to side against me." He marched off. Olaris was clearly displeased with the day's events. Especially the way in which Jareth openly defied him. Just like his father. Their kingdom's could have been the most powerful known to Fae. But for love, Jareth let the dream just crumble away. One way or another, Olaris would make his father's vision for the future of the Underground a reality. One way or another, there will be a reckoning. And he shall be the victor. And as he kills Jareth, he vowed he would make his pretty little bride watch. And make her wish she had never laid eyes on the Underground, let alone Jareth.

Just as things were rapidly changing in the Underground, they were changing Above as well. Time passes differently there. And it had been nearly two days since Robert had seen his daughter. His baby girl. He felt wretched inside, wondering how he and Sarah had become so distant over the years. And why now it was her time to be taken away from him. That was what it boiled down to. His time with her had run out. And now he realized exactly what he had lost.

This was a difficult realization for him to make. There were no more second chances. He could only try to let her live out a happy life. Of course, now she would live forever. And he wouldn't. A middle aged man, he would be lucky to have another thirty years left probably. It seemed so long, and yet so short. And he wondered if after this fairytale wedding, if he would ever see his daughter again. Catherine hadn't really cared when she walked out on them. And now he felt as though he had done the same. Walked out.

He sat in her bedroom, holding her teddy bear she had had since she was only three years ago. He had given it to her as a birthday gift. He could almost see her smiling up at him, dressed in a little white party dress, held by her mother. He could almost feel her tiny arms wraped around his neck. The memory brought a tear to his eye. He had messed up.

Downstairs, he could hear Karen talking to the school principal on the phone. She came up with a rather convincing story that Sarah had left England on short notice to be with her mother and Jeremy. And that it was a permanent move for her. She would not be coming back.

Not be coming back. That was the harsh reality for him. She would not be coming back to her dad. Never. She could....die? Die? Why could she die? Why could she never come home, even if she did become one of them? Why would she have to stay down there, with him forever? What would happen if things changed? What about this supposed war, Jareth mentioned? Why had he never made time for Sarah before? Maybe if he had of, she would still be there. Still be there to hug him ,and tell him she's okay. Still be there, and be playing dress up and rehearsing lines from plays and books.

But the reasoning was to no avail. Now he was a tortured soul. And nothing could change what had happened. She had made her decision, and though he felt helpless, he knew deep down, inside, that nothing he could have done or said would have made a difference.

Toby could be his second chance. But he would never be Sarah. True, Karen was in her glory, and vowed that she would not attend any ceremony. There had always been alot of tention between she and Sarah. But now, his little princess was going to be a queen. His sixteen year old, little princess.

And so his night went on. For most of it, he sat in her room, looking at all of her things, wishing she was still there. Wishing she would come around the corner of the hall, and say, "Hi, Daddy.", and kiss him on the cheek. But those days were gone now. And gone forever.

People watched Sarah with curious expressions. Though she was changing, they could tell that she was still mortal. She could hear the snickers, and some pondering why Jareth had chosen her as the future Goblin Queen. She would have been lying if she had of said that she wasn't hurt by some of the remarks. But she did her best to keep a brave face, and a gentle smile. Jareth was proud of her. He knew of the facade, but he knew she was trying to be strong. Especially for him.

The dress shop was beautiful inside. Full of fabrics of every color of the rainbow. Every material known to man. Off to the side, there were women and goblins alike. All hard at work, sewing and mending. She could see some dresses the shop had for sale. One was of a beautiful dark red velvet, trimmed in cream brocade, with matching crocheted sleeves. She fell in love with it immediately, and walked over to feel the soft fabric.

Jareth smiled, and whispered into her ear, "If you like it, it is yours, Pet." She smiled up at him, blushing. "You could wear it to the party this evening."

A small female goblin approached them, and bowed before Jareth. "Can I's be helpin' you, yer Majesty?", she cackled out. Her grey dress was mended in several places, but she was well groomed for a Goblin. She seemed to have a kind personality.

"Yes. I would like to see the lady of the shop, please.", he said cooly. The small goblin curtsied, and then ran off. Moments later a middle aged woman appeard from behind a set of emerald curtains.

"Your Majesty.", she said as she curtsied. "What a pleasure. I have your package ready for you." She was well dressed in a gold colored gown, trimmed in black. Her hair was done in a tight bun, that was curled into one massive chocolate clump on her head. Her eyes were gentle, and her personality warm. She smiled at Sarah. "And this must be the lovely bride-to-be. Why, my dear, I've heard all about you."

Sarah smiled. "My, word seems to travel quite quickly here."

"Quite.", the owner replied with a smile.

"I wish to purchase that red gown over there, and my lady would like a wedding gown. Spare no expense, Emmie. I want her to be radiant."

She raised her finger to her lips for a moment before she spoke. "I just might have something. It is my latest piece, you know. If you'll both follow me.", she said as she motioned for the back room.

Jareth and Sarah followed close behind her. It was a confined space, due to the bolts of cloth stacked high upon one another. Sarah could feel the burning gazes of women who were left in the storefront. Seldom did any of them get to even venture into the back room. That was where it was rumored that all of Emmie's best gowns were kept.

"I just finished it not two days ago. The lace was all hand made by some of my best workers. The silk was hand spun, and and the color dyed by my own hands.", she said as she pulled a sheet from the dummy she often used. Sarah gasped. The gown was beautiful. Ivory trimmed in white and gold. Shimmering lace with bits of silver spun into it. The bottom was scalloped with gold roses meeting each scallop segment. The bodice was a tight fitting corset. Laiden with golden laces, and a low, sweeping neckline. SHe touched the fabric, not being able to believe the beauty of the garment. The sleeves were poet sleeves. Much like Jareth's shirt sleeves, only fuller, meeting at the wrist before bellowing out once again, and sweeping down.

"Emmie, this is some of your best work.", Jareth said as he amusedly watched Sarah inspect the gown. "And what do you think, Sarah. Is this the gown you would like?"

She walked over to him once again, still somewhat bashful. "Jareth, it must cost a fortune. I can't ask you for it."

"Nonsense, Sarah. If this is the gown you want, you will have it. As well as the red one outside. I know you like it, Sarah." He put his hand on her waist. She nodded in approval.

"Excellent!", Emmie exclaimed as she clapped her hands together in approval. "I'll have it boxed up immediately for you, Highness."

"And,", Jareth began. Sarah turned and looked at him somewhat shocked. "she will also be in need of some corsets, dressing gowns, other feminine attire."

"I have just what she will need." She smiled at Sarah. "Come with me, Miss."

Sarah follwed her, while Jareth went back to the store front. There he made small talk with a few of the other customers whom had gathered. Most asked him of the rumored bride he had chosen. Her merely smiled at them.

"This is our dressing gown collection, m'lady. All are from the finest silks known to Fae. We have a few differnt styles. Mainly whatever your liking is."

Sarah smiled. They are all so long."

"I can have them all hemmed for you before the day is out. Same as your gowns. We have a few shorter ones. And I can have anything you would like made special."

Many of them were long, victorian style gowns, that flowed. much like the ones Jareth had already given her. She picked out four, one of each stlye. And then it came to the corsets.

"I take it you have worn one before, Miss?", Emmie asked. Sarah nodded.

"I'm wearing one today. But Maddie laced it up so tight, I could hardly breath." She raised her hand to her chest. Truth be told, it was still too tight. But she made due.

"Excellent. I recommend a black one and some white ones then." She was keeping careful track of her sales on a slip of parchment. "Now, I believe that Above your ceremonies are fairly the same as here?" Sarah shook her head in misunderstanding.

"What do you mean? We have a priest. A supper. And then a party."

"After the party, My Dear." Sarah still didn't catch on. Emmie sighed. "The act of consummation. You know."

Sarah raised her hand to her mouth in shock. "Oh! I didn't even think about that."

"Didn't think about it?", Emmie laughed. "My dear, every woman from here to the ends of the Underground would die for a chance in his Majesty's bed. And you, marrying him, and not thinking about it? Surely?" Then she looked at Sarah. She seen that she was somewhat upset. "Just how old are you, Dear? I've heard you come from Above. You musn't be very old at all."

"I'm sixteen.", Sarah whispered.

"Still a child then, aren't you? Trying to be a woman. Is it true then? They say he worships the ground you walk on. That you defeated him."

"Yes. It's true.", Sarah said, hanging her head.

"And you love him? Am I right?" Emmie sat on a box, and held Sarah's hand in her own. "It's not easy going through this. Is it? Coming from up there, and giving up everything. You remind me of his mother, when it was time for her to pick out her wedding gown. She was almost the same age as yourself. A year older perhaps."

"Was she scared too?", Sarah asked meekly.

"Child, she was so scared that it was all going to be for nothing. And in the end, they were together for nearly nine hundred years. Until they were killed. But when she came in, she held his heart in her hands. He would give her the world. All she needed to do was ask. You have nothing to be afraid about, m'lady. Jareth is a kind man, and a good king. He will be gentle with you. But you realize that a queen's duty lay not only to the kingdom, but also to please her king."

"Yeah. I know. Rule one in one of the books he gave me.", Sarah murmured.

"I have something for you. Call it a gift, perhaps.", Emmie said as she rooted through a few boxes. Pulling one from a shelf. She opened it to reveal a baby blue camisole, that tied in the front, with a matching silk robe. "Something for your wedding night."

Sarah blushed at the gift. "Really I can't."

"Jareth buys enough from my shop, Sarah. This is yours. And I will pack it in with the rest of your parcels." Emmie smiled. "And I also have some petticoats for you as well."

Jareth waited for what seemed like an eternity. "Women and shopping.", he thought silently to himself. And then he smiled. Sarah would look wonderful in the Hunter Green velvet cloak as well. He had a servant add it to the bill. When Sarah and Emmie reappeared, Emmie handed the paper over to a goblin seamstress, with Sarah's measurements. She glanced at the parchment with a grunt, and ran off to begin the immediate tasks.

"I'll have the parcels sent to your room, Highness.", Emmie said with another curtsy.

"I shall see that the bill is settled then. I thank you for your time, Emmie. I bid you good day." Sarah just smiled. A few of the other customers watched as they left, and immediately began asking Emmie questions about what had been bought. It seemed as though right now, Jareth and his mortal bride were in the limelight of the Underground.

They visited other shops. Sarah ended up coming out of them with many parcels. New slippers and shoes. And even some jewellery. She liked the non-elaborate items. This sort of disgruntled the shop owners. Usually when visited by royalty, their most expensive pieces were sold. But, despite theirs, and Jareth's protests, Sarah chose the simple and elegant items.

When thy returned to the small inn, Damien was awaiting them. The chubby man wa clearly pleased that they had finally returned, as many parcels had been dropped off for his Majesty. As previously arranged, the inn keep had paid the bills, and Jareth paid him in gold and silver coins. Adding a few extra pieces to the bill.

In their room, Sarah was amazed by all the boxes. Some were of shoes. others gowns, dressing gowns, hats, jewellery. It was alot for her to take in. Jareth also presented her with her new cloak.

"It will look wonderful with your new gown, my dear.", he said into her ear with a smile. "Of course, you look beautiful in anything."

Sarah blushed the lighter shade of pink, and turned away from him. "It's chilly can you light a fire?"

"A king's duty is hardly to light a fire. I'll send for a servant to do so. In the meantime, I suggest you get dressed for our engagement at the Byron's. They will be expecting us before dinner. I'll send for Maddie to assist you." He bowed as he left the room.

Sarah felt strangely light headed. Perhaps it was the change making her feel ill. Perhaps there are other forces at work. Who was to tell? She felt awkward though. Almost like everyhting was beginning to feel new to her again. She looked down at her hands. They looked the same, but felt different to her. A small tingle was beginning to flow thorugh her veins. When she glanced in the mirror above the fireplace, she could see that her brown eyes now shone like bright orbs. Her skin was becoming creamier and softer. It was happening gradually. But the changes were noticable.

The fire was soon lit by a small hobbit creature. Sarah really wasn't sure if it was a boy or a girl. And soon after, Maddie was in to help her dress in her new red velvet gown.

The effect was clear. She was stunning. And she knew that is why Jareth had bought her these things. In a way it made her feel as though she were a china doll. But in other ways, she felt like a woman. What girl wouldn't want so many pretty things? When Jareth returned, he was ready for them to leave. The coach was waiting outside to take them to the other side of the city. He examined her, walking around her in a complete circle, before he put his arms around her.

"Shall we?", he asked. She nodded in compliance. She was eager to meet the Byron's. Jareth spoke fondly of them. They seemed to be nice people.

The coach ride was uneventful. Jareth spoke of how he detested vanishing from one place and appearing in another. It was a good means of making an imposing appearance to someone. But it drained him, taking him sometime to recover.

As they approached the palace, which lay in the distance, Sarah poked her head out of the window. She pulled the hood of her cloak back. A single snowflake brushed her cheek. The seasons changed quickly here. Going from one extreme to the next without warning. The palace was long. Nearly four stories high, from what she could tell. And much more inviting than the castle beyond the Goblin City. Full of windows, the light from inside shone out, like a beacon, welcoming visitors. There were many more coaches outside, suggesting that they had more visitors. As the coach began moving along the gravel path, leading to the main doors, Sarah replaced her hood. She was getting cold. Jareth patted her hand assuringly, and she smiled at him.

As they approached, the massive wooden doors opened, and a page announced their arrival. Immediatley the were met by Byron, himself, with his wife, Chloe, in follow. Sarah liked the look of him. And she liked his voice even more. The thick Scottish accent, with his salt and pepper beard made him seem like a wonderfully jolly fellow. His wife was just as pleasant. She looked to be about middle aged, with soft hazel eyes. Her blonde hair was simply braided, reaching down to the small of her back. Her dress was long, trailing a few feet behind her. She always dressed for a party. She wouldn't have it any other way. She simply loved to entertain people. She curtsied to Jareth, and bowed her head to Sarah.

"My lord has told me that you would be coming.", she said in her soft sweet voice. "The other guests, and ourselves, have awaited your arrival to begin to sup."

"Jareth, what took you so long? I am simply famished, you know. The hunt went well today. Even caught glimpse of a unicorn, you know. Such rare beasts.", he said as he clapped Jareth on the back. "And this must be the fabled mortal whom I have heard so much about.", he said as he looked at Sarah. "Now that's a pretty creature. What say you, Chloe? Is she not as beautiful as the stories we've heard?"

"Indeed, my lord.", she agreed. "And you, Jareth? What has kept you away from our house so long? Your company is always a pleasure to have." She extended her hand out to Jareth, and he kissed it gently.

"I now dread coming to the city, my lady. Due to the recent events, I fear I shall not be back for quite some time." He placed his hands behind his back.

"No talk of that!", Byron commanded. "For now we sup. We will have plenty of time to talk of this matter, Jareth. For I have my own matters to discuss with you." He looked at Sarah. "Come, love. Welcome to my home. Stay s long as you wish. Lord knows, my wife loves company." He escorted Sarah to the dinning hall, where other guests were sat.

It was a grand affair. With twenty or so other couples seated around the massive table. Jareth sat accross from Sarah. As she removed her cloak, many of the ladies seated gasped at her. She was beautiful. For a mortal that is. She was questioned by a few of the women, and by even more of the men, about Above, but Jareth was quick to change the subject. Noting that she was a Fae now. And that Above no longer mattered.

"I've heard that instead of carriages, you have some mechanical horse.", one lady commented as she sipped her wine.

"They're called cars.", Sarah replied dryly.

"How absurd!", stated a well dressed man sitting next to Jareth. "What are horses for, if not to ride? And what of this idea of independent women? I understand arranged marriages are no loonger customary there."

Sarah scowled her face. "I suppsoe not, since I am engaged to the Goblin King on my own accord. As for independent women,-"

Jareth cut her off. "Their ways there, are not like ours, here.", he spoke softly. He knew she had been offended. "All that really matters now, is that she will become accustomed to our ways."

"Indeed.", the gentleman replied. "I apologize for offending you, m'lady." Sarah only nodded her head. She was thankful that the feast was over, and they were able to retire to the lounge and library.

"I must say, I simply love your gown, m'lady.", Chloe said with a smile. "We have similar taste, you and I." Sarah smiled at her. "I didn't mean to make a scene at your dinner table.", she began to apologize.

"Perfectly alright. I must say that that table has been witness to many a quarrel and dispute.", she laughed whimsically. "Why, Jareth himself has begun a good many debates there." Sarah laughed.

"Sounds alot like him.", she giggled.

"And what think you of the Underground? And to be a queen? You are most envied. Especially by many of the ladies here tonight. Many of them have fought for Jareth's attention for centuries. And you, not even asking for them, receive them. How lucky you are." She handed Sarah a glass of wine. "Alderberry wine. You'll love it."

Sarah sipped the crimson liquid. It was wonderful. Much like the tea.

"It's so pretty here. But, I am not sure of fitting in anywhere. I feel out of place.", Sarah confessed, looking into the silver goblet in her hands.

"That's customary. Mortals are not very common sights her, as I'm sure you already know. Infact, you must have heard about that silly law, that wretched Olaris is trying to pass." She grunted. "He and that animal of a wife of his will never set foot in my door. I really don't mean to be rude, but really!"

"My lady. What a beautiful gown you have. It must have cost his Majesty a fortune." Sarah glanced at another lady who had joined them.

"Sarah, this is Anna. She is here with Lord Gyles. From the East."

Anna curtsied. "You're really going to be the Goblin Queen?", she asked quickly. "You are lucky. Before I was wed to my lord, my parents tried to arrange my marriage with his Majesty."

"Sarah here, is overjoyed at our union, I assure you.", Jareth cut in. He was accompanied by Lord Byron. "Infact we recently purchased her wedding gown. The finest in all the land. Afterall, royal weddings are seldom now a days. Wouldn't you agree?", he asked sardonically.

"Indeed, Majesty.", Chloe agreed. "But your charming bride is wonderful. And you say you will not come back to the city? Why, where would you expect her to get new gowns? A queen must have the finest.", she laughed. "I would be truly hurt if you both did not return."

"Agreed.", he smiled. He looked at Sarah. Byron appeared with another bottle of wine.

"Drink up, my dear. This will take the chill from the cold outdoors. Put some color into those cheeks.", he smiled. I hope to dance with you this evening as well. I love to dance."

"Surely, you will allow me to dance with her as well, Majesty?", another man asked. Sarah looked at Jareth in shock, shaking her head.

"Come dear. Enjoy yourself.", Chloe cooed. "This is a party. I propose a toast.", she said as she raised her glass. "To his Majesty and his bride. May their lives be filled with joy and happiness."

"And may she give him a belly full of little heirs.", Byron laughed. Sarah choked on her wine. Jareth looked at her amused, then moved to her side.

"That is part of marriage, love.", he whhispered into her ear, and placed his hand on her belly. "A baby, in time, to be a prince, or princess." Sarah looked at him.

"More wine!", Byron commanded. "Music. Musicians, play. Play!", he ordered. "A dance! A dance!" The musicians entered and began to paly a waltz. Jareth took her glass from her, and they began to spin around the room.

"Enjoying yourself?", he asked.

"I am. But I'm a little shocked.", she admitted looking around, as their bodies swayed to the music.

"It's all in the book, dear.", he replied, brushing his lips against her own. "A queen's duties, include producing an heir. But I'll not ask such a thing of you yet. Don't worry." She smiled at him.

"Are you ashamed of me being a mortal?", she asked, tuning out the background.

"Quite the opposite, I assure you.", he said as he spun her around. "But it is difficult to know who to trust, and who not to. I only ever mean to protect you, love."

She smiled at him. "May I cut in?", a man asked.

"Of course.", Jareth replied, and they switched partners.

He attempted to make small talk with Sarah, and she was polite. But she didn't want his arms about her. It was the same old questions. What she thought of the Underground. How lucky she was.

Finally as the song ended, she was approached by Lord Byron. "May I have this dance?", he asked. She nodded.

"You are a very different woman, Miss Sarah.", he said. "My wife speaks fondly of you. I hope you will return to my palace again. In the near future."

"I do so, too." She glanced at Jareth who was watching from the sidelines, clearly amused.

"He was somewhat afraid you would not like this interaction.", Byron laughed. "He was so bold to say that you shy away from attention. You are now, and always will be, in the limelight of society, m'lady."

"Are you helping Jareth?", Sarah asked. "With this notion of war. I'd hate to be the cause of something like that. I think alot of people are blaming me."

"Ah. So you know. Truth is, I am giving him my support. Your future kiingdom will be well protected, but- I'll just say that Jareth is afraid the odds are against him.He confided in me, that he would give up the crown, to ensure your safty. If this is not devotion and love. I am unsure what is." He smiled. "But, I told him, you will not have to fret. Our armies combined, we deafted Olaris once before. We can do it again.", he laughed. "And now, more wine."

"I really shouldn't." Sarah protested as he handed her another goblet.

"Nonsense. It's a party. Drink. Be merry. Feast." Sarah found with each glass of wine, the effects were clear. She was getting intoxicated. And the more she drank, the more she wanted.

The night of dancing and drinking went on. It was after midnight when Jareth announced that they were departing, and sent for his carraige. Sarah clearly protested the idea, as did Lord and Lady Byron, and several of the other guests.

"I want to dance some more!", Sarah protested as he helped her with her cloak, taking the silver goblet from her hands and resting it on a table. He laughed at her. Her cheeks were a rosey red color, and her intoxicaton was clear in the way she walked.

"Let her stay, Jareth.", Chloe laughed. "We are all having such a good time. There is lots of time left. The night is only young."

"I fear if she stays anylonger, she will be here permanently.", he laughed. "She can hardly stand as it is."

"I can stand quite well, your majesty." She said as she did a deep curtsy, and landed flat on her rump.

Jareth laughed at her. "Come on, the carriage is here." , he said as he led her to the doors. Byron was close to his side.

"Jareth, about the matter we discussed, earlier. You do have my support. My men will be there. As many as you need. But, if that time does come, Chloe will be in your safe keeping. I must be assured of this." Jareth helped Sarah into the carraige, and ordered the driver to keep her there at all costs. Then he returned to the entrance.

Little did they know they were being watched by one of the guests.

"She will be kept safe. I promise you on all I hold dear, my friend.", Jareth confided.

"We fought together once before. The young lady asked me if I thought all would be well." He looked saddened for a moment. "Our army will not be nearly half the size of his should an uprising occur. He has the support of many. And we only have each other."

Jareth looked at his friend of many centuries. "I have a place secured for Sarah. Chloe as well. Olaris is going too far. Too many kingdom's have succombed to his wrath, and ours shall not. He has taken over the city. Has proclaimed himself king of too many kingdoms. I'm surprised he has not tried for yours as of yet."

"He has interest, Jareth. That is why we have decided to stay so close to the city, and away from the kingdom. He will come for me, before my kingdom. At least here, there is protection. Our armies alone will not do much. Especially should they lay seige."

"I agree. But Sarah must not know."

"She is so young, Jareth." He looked at his friend. "Perhaps you should have left good enough alone. Married a Fae girl instead. There are princess a many stretching to the far reaches of the Underground. So many kingdoms. You could have had any woman you wanted."

"But, I wanted her.", Jareth said with a shake of his head. "Maybe I could have done that, but not for the fact that she wanted me too."

"Rathcart spoke to me of the prophecy.", Byron began. The unwanted listener's ears perked. "Is it possible that she is the one? ", he asked. "A mortal?"

"It is possible. I've told you of the strange things happening. Father told me of what happened to my mother during the change. It is not like that with Sarah. She knew where the cemetery was, Byron." He shook his head. "It was like she was distanced from me. And a storm came from nowhere. Not even I am capable of that. She claims she can see things. People and places she has never even heard of."

"Have you told Rathcart of this?"

"No. And I would prefer if you didn't. These are dangerous times. I will tell him myself. If all is well, I am certain he will be returning to the Goblin Realm for a long period of time."

"And the wedding?"

"Sarah shall have the most elegant and spectacular wedding ceremony known to the Underground. Her happiness is all that matters to me, at this point."

"Jareth, as your friend, you truly love the girl, am I right? Don't just say you chose her due to the possibility of an old wise tale prophecy."

"I love her, my friend. Whether she is the chosen one or not. I would not change a thing. Save but for Olaris to have been beheaded when we had the chance. This is where mercy has delivered us."

Byron extended his hand. " Then our allaince is sealed, as it was nearly eight hundred years ago. And it shall bind beyond the stretches of eternity. Now, take your young bride home, Jareth. I fear she will be feeling quite ill come morning.", he laughed merrily. " I look forward to receiving the wedding invitation as well." He clapped his old friend on the back as he left. "Until next time, Majesty. And may your journey be blessed and unevertful."

As Jareth left, a figure appeared from behind the shadows.

"Leaving as well, Sir Michael?", Lord Byron asked slyly. "Where did you come from all of a sudden?"

"I just came from the dinning hall. I was looking for a servant to fetch my cloak. I have business to attend to, and sadly must be off. I thank you for your invitation to this gathering. It was a pleasure."

"Indeed.", Byron replied. He knew something was amiss. He had noticed that Sir Micheal had lurked around he and Jareth all night. As Sir Michael left, he summoned four guards and sent them after him. In the event any of his conversation with Jareth leaked out, he did not want to be held responsible. The guards were under strict orders to take him to the cellar, and hold him there until further notice. He could hear the mans protests in the distance, but it did not bother him. Byron was a man of war. And as such, he knew a rat when he smelled one. He stood in the distance until Jareth's coach lights disappeared. Then he returned to his other guests.

Sarah was still full of energy. Moreso than what she had at the party. She was adament about wanting to return, and protested against Jareth.

"You are drunk, love." He said as he tried to hold her down. "Come now, sit and be still." She seen the street lamps outside the coach lighting the cobblestone roads. She sat still for a moment, then leaped out the door, landing with a thud. Jareth ordered the coah to hault. It was a rather funny occurrance, but it was still no way for a future queen to be behaving.

"I want to walk.", she announced. "I'm tired of sitting."

"You have a job to stand up. Let alone walk.", he laughed as she stumbled and he caught her. Holding her by the arm, she bagan to skip about.

"Come on, Jareth. I want us to have fun.", she said as she twirled around in her new gown. "Please?", she pleaded.

He sent the coach on its way. The Inn was only about a ten minute walk away, or so.

"Come on then, let's walk. Burn off some of that extra energy you've acquired. too much wine for you, Miss.", he chided as he took her by the arm. The clicking of her heals echoed in the empty streets.

In the shelter of a shadow, Olaris watched them. He was burning with hatred, and wanted vengeance for the deaths of his parents. He possessed the oppourtunity to do away with the goblin king, but the means was beyond his reach. His magic would have been traced back to him, and everything he had worked to accomplish would have all been for nothing. So he would bide his time. It was drawing near. And it would be then when he would ride the underground of this traitor, and capture his kingdom.

Jareth helped Sarah to their room. He summoned Maddie from her sleep, to help the drunken girl ready for bed. Maddie did as she was bid, though it was a difficult task for the small creature to perform. She shooed Jareth out of the room. A gentleman watching a lady dress was far from proper in her eyes. As Jareth walked out into the hall, he was met by Rathcart. Standing, smiling, he motioned for Jareth to join him in the lounge across from their room.

"I thought that it would be a good time for us to talk, Jareth. About a current event taking place." The old man smoothed out his robes as he sat in the large armchair by the fire.

"And what events are you referring to? With all do respect, it is late. And I am fatigued. Couldn't this possibly wait until morning?"

"I'm afraid not. Jareth, don't you realize that even with Byron's armies you stand little to no chance of victory?", Rathcart spoke softly. "I believe you leaped before you thought. For now you not only have yourself and your kingdom to worry about, but you also have that young lady, sleeping yonder."

"She will be well protected. I have already ensured that."

"In your castle, where Olaris will surely lay seige. Tell me then, how will crops be harvested, how will you be protected. True, it will take time to navigate through the Labyrinth, but Olaris will be able to. And his trolls will smash it asunder. How will she and Byroon's wife be safe then?" Jareth was at a loss. "I thought I schooled you well. But it seems you still have much to learn.

"What do you mean?", Jareth asked helplessly. "I am listening. Help me."

"There is a place, far from where Olaris will dare to go."

"No, you are not sending her to the mountains!", Jareth exclaimed. "That is impossible."

"It is a three week coach ride, Jareth. Or you could teleport between here and there."

"And drain my powers. Without me, how are my armies suppose to fight?" Jareth slumped into his chair, adjacent from Rathcart.

"She would be safe there. And that is all that matters to Lord Byron. I can take them there myself. They would be safe."

"Living like paupers.", Jareth added coldly. "I'm sure Lady Byron would appreciate that."

"Would it matter as long as they are alive?", Rathcart asked. "Another thing, why did you not mention about the prophecy? That you think that she may be the chosen one?" Jareth raised his eyebrows in unision, apparently shockd by the mention of the idea. "Aha. So I am correct then, judging from your reaction."

"Who told you?", Jareth demanded.

"No one told me. But your father often spoke of it. And I believe that that may be why you have chosen young Sarah there."

"I chose her, because I love her. I do not care whether or not she may have the ability to possess some of the most strongest powers here. All I care is that she is warm in my bed at night, and by my side in the day. That she is there to love me for the rest of eternity."

"Then I am most relieved. Do not have such faith in old tales, Jareth. But I do have some good news for you. There are some small kingdooms lying to the west who will side with you and Lord Byron. Olaris has not conquered them yet, and they are ready to move their armies out as soon as you need them. I doubt very much that Olaris views them as a threat to his campaign."

"Wonderful.", Jareth whispered. He was distraught now.

"I feel that there is something you are not telling me.", Rathcart said softly. "Hide nothing between us."

"Something strange happened to Sarah. Not two days ago. We were in the valley. And, it happened suddenly, Rathcart. I don't know what it was." He closed his eyes, and rested his face in his hand. "W were just talking. And then it was like she was gone. Her body was there, but she could not hear me."

"What happened?", Rathcart prodded.

"She began walking. And ended up in the cemetery. Standing before my family's mausoleum. I haven't been there since we laid my parent's to rest. How could she have known where to go?"

"She was in the labyrinth before. Perhaps she found it then.".

"No. I watched her every move. She claims she sees things running through her mind. People and places. Perhaps it is just the change. But Father told me about what happened to Mother. And it was nothing like this."

"Are you sure she has no illness?"

"Sarah? Mad? I'm afraid not."

"Do not worry about it, Jareth. What is important now, is the near future. Olaris hates you. Hatred is a powerful thing." He looked across the hall at Jareth's chamber door. "Of course, so is love. It is your decision, but I do see your future, Jareth. Just as I see Olaris'. Many are going to fall. And I do see you fighting. But then it is all hazy. I do see a child being born. Born amongst death and suffering. Who this child is, I'm not certain. But the stars say that one shall rise, and one shall fall. This is going to be a battle Jareth. And the death toll shall be many. More shall be laid to rest in the cemetery of the fallen before long."

Jareth looked down into the flames. "I will speak to Byron about Chloe and this place in the mountains. I trust you, Rathcart. And you are right. Sarah will be a queen. And at all costs, she must be protected. She shall go with you. And I am certain Byron shall do the same."

"All is settled then. I have already began provisioning the home. I will go now. And I shall look forward to performing your wedding ceremony, a month from now."

"Yes. Womderful.", Jareth agreed. "A month. Sarah will be most pleased."

Rathcart left with a small bow. The rest of the night Jareth was plagued by his thoughts. He believed that he had truly wronged Sarah. Why couldn't Rathcart be more specific with these visions of his. Jareth beleived that he knew something that he was not saying. He had known what would happen with Jareth's parents. He had prophesied Jareth's birth, had known the outcomes of the war. But it all boiled down to ethics. What will happen, will happen. And things shold not be tampered with. How was Jareth to know that sending Sarah and Chloe to the mountains would spare their lives rather than end them?

All night he pondered. He was a mental wreck, while Sarah awoke refreshed. She called out to him, and finally, he came. He looked exhausted.

"You look awful.", she said as he sat on the bed.

"And you look surprisingly well.", he mocked her. "Especially after all that Alderberry wine." She giggled.

"What's wrong?"

"We need to talk." He played with the ruffle of her dressing gown. "I was visited by Rathcart last night."

"I see.", she nodded. "And?" She smiled at him. "Come on, Jareth. Smile."

"This is nothing to be happy about." She dropped her smile, and look seriously at him.

"What do you mean? What's going on?"

"I have support from the western kingdoms. But things are going to be very grave. There is war on the horizon."

She laughed. "That's alright. Lord Byron told me he is going to help. And now you have the west. He promised me everything was going to be alright."

Jareth grew angry. "Everything is not alright, Sarah. I can't pretend it is. I have to send you away to the mountains with Rathcart. It's the only way you'll be safe." He began to pace around the room. "I thought about it all night. And I have to trust my instincts."

"What!", Sarah yelled. She threw the covers off of her tiny form, and stood. "And what is it, I don't have a say in the matter? Not even as your future wife, and queen? I don't know how it works here, but home, everything is fifty fifty!"

"That is there, not here!", he snapped back. " You think I want to send you away? You think Byron's going to want Chloe there too? I don't think so, Sarah. As for this future queen business, that is one of the reason's. If I am killed, someone needs to assume the throne. If you're dead, who else will?"

"You have the nerve to turn around and do this to me, after you promised me?", she turned on him.

"Promises were made to be broken!", he shot back, soon regretting what he had said. The hurt look that spread across her face spelled it all out.

"They are, are they? Well fine! If promises are made to be broken, then I take mine back about loving you." She pulled her ring from her finger in a fit of fury, and threw it at him. "Take your ring back, I don't want it anymore. Dad was right. I want to go home.", she cried.

Jareth looked at the ring laying on the floor shocked. "You- you can't go home.", he whispered. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean-" She cut him off. She tore through the boxes until she found her simple white gown.

"Didn't mean what?", she cried. "It's like you said, Jareth. 'What's said is said.'. Don't even try to take it back. I'm going home.", she cried as she began to put on the simple white gown. Maddie barged in, and tried to help, but Sarah shoved her away.

"The castle is a far walk from here.", he said flatly.

"I'm not going there. I'm going home!"

He grabbed her by the arms. "You can't. You are not a mortal anylonger. You'll die within a day or two. Fade away to nothing." He shook her hard.

"Better that fate, than being stuck here, where I'm nothing. Just a concubine for you to use. Just something for you to parade around with. If anyone says anything about Above, I'm not suppose to talk about it. Go and find yourself some stupid princess then, Jareth. Cause I'm leaving." She ran through the door, grabbing her cloak on the way. He called after her, but she wouldn't reply. She brushed passed the inn keep without even speaking. Outside snow was beginning to fall. But the cold didn't bother her. She was going to find her own way home. Nothing was going to stop her.

A bright light appeared infront of her, and there stood Jareth, looking exhausted, holding her ring in his outstretched hand. "Take it, please.", he asked gently.

But she just brushed passed him, running for the outer gates. When she thought she had lost him, another bright light appeared before her, and there he stood again. Looking even more exhausted. "Sarah, please, I'm sorry. I'm just trying to do the best thing." People began to gather around them, but she just shoved past him again.

"Leave me alone!", she exclaimed. She could hear people remarking about how unsuitable her behaviour was. Especially for the next Goblin Queen.As she neared the gates, Jareth was standing there before her. He was leaning up against one of the walls, his hand still holding the ring, outstretched.

"Sarah, please. Take it back.", he pleaded, in the seclusion. Snowflakes beginning to fall around them.

"No! Not until you take it back. I hate you, Jareth. I gave up everything. My family. My life up there." She pointed towards the sky. "I'm just something you had a silly fascination with. Just leave me alone.", she creid. "Leave me alone!"

The guard who had searched their carriage earlier approached, his hand resting on the tang of his sword.

"Is everything alright, m'lady?", he asked. Then he noticed Jareth leaning up against the wall, clearly ready to collapse. "Are you in need of assistance, your Highness? I can send for a coach if you so desire. Perhaps a surgeon?"

"We are quite alright, I assure you. However I do appreciate your concern." The guard backed off, looking at Sarah, standing in the falling snow. The same thought crossed both men at the same time. She was beautiful. Her rosy cheeks, her hunter green cloak, her hair blowing in the breeze. She looked like an angel.

"Please accept my apologies, Sarah. I am uncertain as of what to do.", he spoke softly. She turned to walk away. "Wait.", he pleaded. "Sarah- Sarah please. The last thing I want is to send you away. You are to be my wife. I can't bear the thought to lose you. But it is not only us. Think of Lord and Lady Bryron. This is not an easy task for either of them as well."

She turned on him. "You hurt me, Jareth. I honestly don't know of many women who would want to stand by their husband's. But I try to do my best. I try so..hard to be the person everyone wants me to be. And all I ask in return is to be with you. Not sent away to some wretched place, for God knows how long. And you promise me that you'll keep me near, then say promises are made to be broken. I don't want to be hurt anylonger. Can't you see that?" She stood, froze in her tracks for a moment.

"And you make it sound as though it is what I want. It isn't. But we not only have ourselves to think about. The kingdom-"

"Is a silly place anyway.", she spat coldly. "Full of silly creatures, and a silly king."

"You wouldn't have said such a thing only hours ago. And what of your friends? Are you just going to forsaken them? They will be there too. For that silly little place is their home. No matter where they are, or go, it will always be home for them." She thought silently to herself for a moment. "I cannot force you to marry me Sarah. If it is no longer what you desire, so be it. But I cannot let you die neither. No matter what you say or do." He began to walk away. "I'll leave you if that is what you wish. Enough gold and silver will be sent to ensure you a comfortable life wherever you may go. I advise you to stay close to the city. Life can be most difficult elsewhere." He turned, away from her, his boots leaving prints in the freshly fallen snow. She watched him for only a moment.

"I want to be happy, Jareth. That is all. And being with you is what makes me happy. I'm not asking for much."

He stopped and turned to look at her. She was beautiful. The coach pulled up alongside them. The driver opened the door. Her parcels had been piled on the roof, in a massive lump.

"There may be more at stake, Sarah. Much more. An heir. Rathcart forsees a child. Though he is unsure who's it may be. I am just trying to protect that which is close to my heart. If you can't understand that, I don't know what else to say."

"A child?", she whispered. He gazed at her. His eyes filled with pain, and weariness. "Jareth-"

"It's a duty, Sarah. And it should be a joyous and happy one at that. A family of our own." He smiled fondly. "Of course you are rather adamant about leaving. So I suppose it is merely a dream of mine. A possibility for the future, but a hopeful one I might add." He climbed into the carriage.

She looked down at the ground, the guard still watching them.

"You can come home if you wish. But I will not force you."

"Jareth, I'm only sixteen. I can't have a baby.", she whispered, the breeze nearly drowning out her words.

"Then perhaps you are still a child yourself, Sarah. Silly prophecies, nothing more. Perhaps another time, we will-"

"I didn't refuse your invitation yet.", she said.

"Sarah, come, we will talk on the way.", he extended his hand, still holding the ring out to her. "This is still yours if you want it." She looked at it. Why had she done such a thing.? It was so childish of her. She couldn't believe what she had done. She accepted his hand, and he helped her into the carriage. The driver gave the great black horses a crack with the whip and they were off.

They sat in silence for some time. Both uncertain as of what to say to one another. Jareth fingered the ring in his hand. Sarah's eyes drifted up to look at his own.

"I believe we both said things we didn't mean.", he said in a low voice, pulling his cloak about his shoulders. "What really matters is your eternal happiness, Sarah." She said nothing for a few moments, and he took her silence as a sign that she no longer wished to talk. Just as he was about to drift to sleep, she spoke in her soft voice.

"My happiness lies with you. Maybe everyone is right and I'm still a kid, trying to grow up in the world. Maybe I'm just trying to be something I'm not."

"You are what you want to be. Life is like that. I chose you to be my bride because I love you. And that is something that will never change. But, if you feel yourself unfit to perform the roles of a queen, you will never be able to. I find myself at a loss to offer you any advice. All I can do is tell you to do what you feel is the right thing to do."

"Jareth, I want to have a family, with you. I really do. But, I don't know if I'm ready for that yet." He nodded, showing he understood.

"Then I suggest we hold off the wedding until you feel it is right. The act of consummation is vital. Without it, our union is annulled and therefore void. And it is not like Above, Sarah."

"Nothing seems to be.", she replied sulkily.

"Fae pride themselves on the children. Especially royalty. A son, or daughter to be an heir, is a great privledge." He smiled. "I always wanted a child of my own, to follow my footsteps. A wife to bear me many more. A kingdom to pass down when the time comes."

This was a side Sarah had never seen before. Jareth was lonely, and yearned for a family. Perhaps it was to replace the one he had lost. But maybe he was right. She had been taught that a sixteen year old mother was not acceptable. Here, it was. Here it was acceptable for her to marry with a man much older than herself. Age seemed to make no difference to any matter. And maybe it was how old and mature you feel about yourself. Perhaps that is how she was merritted.

She reached out and took his hand in her own.

"I'm sorry, Jareth. I just don't want to be left alone. I don't want to lose you. It almost happened once. I don't want it to happen again." He smiled at her. "More than anything I want to be at your side. But you have to do what feels right for you too. And you're right. My wish is selfish. There is the kingdom to consider." He cupped her face in his gloved hand. Then placed the gold ring back on her finger.

"I believe that this is yours, my lady." She smiled and put her arms about him.

"And I'll have as many babies as you want. A whole castle full." She smiled as she nuzzled into his warmth.

"Really. That many hmmm?", he chuckled. She just smiled. "That could be an awful lot, you know." He stroked her hair gently.

"What does it matter? We have an eternity together.", she giggled. "And that's a long time."

"Not long at all.", he whispered.

The snow fell softly outside. At last all was well. The holidays were coming to the Underground. Their own little twist on Christmas. But there was one dampened spirit. Poor Hoggle was unhappy with Sarah's decision. He felt as though his only friend had abandoned him. Didymus and Ludo didn't feel the same. Since Sarah had arrived, all had been merry and well. The king was happy and the subjects were happy. But Hoggle was not. He left her a small present in her chambers. Nothing spectacular. Just one of his many baubles. But now he sat in his small ramshackle home, the roof falling in, poking at his miserable little fire. His brow furled slightly, he missed Sarah. She had been his first friend. Ludo and Didymus his second and third.

But when things seemed to be hopeless, things always have a way of brightening up.

It wasn't long until he heard the trumpets sounding, signalling that the king had returned. As the carriage was pulled through the city, Sarah's head poked out, and she beckoned the driver to stop.

"Where are you off to?", Jareth asked.

"I want to find Hoggle.", she said." I feel bad about the other day."

"I see. Maddie, give her directions to Hoggle's home, please."

"I'lls just go 'ith 'er, yer Majesty.", she replied as she hopped down from the top of the carriage.

"I'll be home shortly.", Sarah said as she brushed her love's lips. He nodded.

"I'll ensure your pacels are delivered and taken to your chambers. They will be put into the head servant's charge. And then we have wedding plans to attend to. A month from now, the ceremony shall take place."

"Nice timing.", she chided. He kissed her hand goodbye, and the coach began to pull away. She watched it for a moment, then noticed Maddie had already began to walk ahead of her. "Hey! Wait up!", Sarah commanded.

"Theses streets be no place fer a lady.", Maddie replied. "Walking 'bout the Goblin City. 'is Majesty must be gone daft. Course, who'm I to be complainin?", she mumbled. Sarah just rolled her eyes.

They came to a modest little hovel. Sarah was repulsed by the look of it. The small shack was in dire need of repairs. The thatch roof was sagged and full of holes. No doubt it leaked badly. Outside there was a barrell full of water, with a small pitcher nearby.

"This be where he lives.", Maddie squeaked. "I'se got some friends to see. Take yer time." Then the small goblin ran off. Sarah knocked on the door. It opened just a crack, and Hoggle peered out.

"Oh. It's you.", he mumbled. "C'mon in then, I spose. If Jareth found out I was rude-" He began walking back into his home, and sat at his table. He mushed the food around on his plate.

"Why would you be rude to a friend, Hoggle?", she asked sweetly. "We are friends you know. Jareth changes nothing about that."

"Is that so?", Hoggle replied nonchalently. "I's be disagreein' with ya there, Missy. Jareth changes alot of things. Won't be right for you to be 'sociatin with us when your queen, now will it?" He pushed the plate away. "Haven't even seen ya since you been here."

"Hoggle, a stupid title isn't going to change anything. I promise. And I never broke a promise to you, have I?", she asked. She held out her arms for a hug. He looked at her questioningly for a few seconds.

"You be promisin' me that, Sarah? Ya know I ain't ever had friends 'fore. I was thinkin' that Jareth's the enemy. We all fought wit him. Helped you solve the labyrinth and all." He looked at her in her pretty dress. "But he sure has given you nice things." He looked at the ring on her finger. "Even nicer baubles thens what I gots to give ya."

She smiled. "Jareth takes care of me, Hoggle. I can't change the way I feel about him. But I love you, and Didymus, and Ludo too. But with Jareth, it's different. I love him, Hoggle. I wish you could be happy." She stood up. "But, to show you he isn't all that bad, I'm going to have him fix up your house." She spun around.

"What?", he yelled out? "Fix this place? You crazy? Jareth won't do nothin's like that.", he laughed.

"He will, and he shall. But on one condition." She outstretched her arms again. "Friends still?" The dwarf pondered for a second. Then ran to her.

"Friends.", he whispered in their embrace.

Sarah and Hoggle spoke for quite a while. The dwarf with the crinkled brows rejoicing over the fact that his friend, his first real friend, was going to be the Goblin Queen. Wouldn't this be something to brag about at the local ale house? Sarah pleaded with him to attend the wedding ceremony. She told him it just wouldn't be nearly as special without him. And Hoggle was proud. She also set him the task of informing Didymus and Ludo that they were to come as well, and Hoggle beamed with pride.

"I'se coming up in this rat hole now.", he thought silently to himself with a smile. "Course, Sarah'll make sure this place be's beautiful by the end of it all."

Hours passed, and evening befell on the kingdom. Sarah had made amends with her friend, and now it was time to tackle Jareth. He was waiting for her in the dinning hall.

"I trust your visit with Hegwart was enjoyable?", he asked, seeming uninterested. Sarah sat in the seat to his left.

"Quite.", she replied, as she began to eat. Jareth poured her a glass of wine. "You said I could have anything I want. All I need do is ask.", she said with a smile.

"Dear God.", he thought to himself. "You finally have a request. Well, out with it.", he smiled at her. "Another gown perhaps? Another servant? Anything."

She sat quietly for a moment. "I want you to have Hoggle's house repaired." Jareth swallowed his food hard with shock, then chuckled. as he wiped his mouth.

"I'm afraid not, Sarah. If I went and did that, then every goblin in the kingdom would want the same. Perhaps something else."

"No. That is what I want. But I can always have Maddie make a room for him here. I'll not see any friend of mine living in such a hovel.", she stated most clearly.

"Now, Sarah-"

"Jareth, please. I'll do whatever you say. Just this one thing." She sulked a bit, and his heart began to melt.

"Very well. But for heaven's sake, do not let this get out, or I'll have every house holder from here to the Bog to contend with." She kissed him on the cheek.

"Thanks.", she said as she left the dinning hall, apparently please. Jareth was left by himself. He just shook his head, and chuckled.

"Women."

The tasks of the evening went without any problems. The wedding ceremony was planned, and a guest list made up. Jareth's personal servant handled the invitations, and everything was set. As they sat in the library, Jareth played with a crystal. He was deep in thought. Sarah had retired to bed. And he was relieved, for he had other matters to attend to. Namely that of her personal guards. He had sent for Hagwort, Ludo, and the fox. As her friends, they would undoubtedly possess undying loyalty to her, and lay down their very lives to keep her safe.

He told them of the war. Hoggle was clearlyupset. He hadn't been alive when the last one had taken place. But he took his job as one of Sarah's royal guards with pride and dignity. He would be paid handsomely, and his home repaired in return for his loyal service. Sir Didymus was proud to have such a task bestowed upon him. To protect as fair a maid as Sarah was an honor, and he swore he would fight to the death, though Ambrosious was somewhat of a coward. Ludo followed his friends, apparently happy to be lending a hand.

With this arrangement set, it was another set of worries removed from the Goblin King's shoulders. Perhaps now, everything would be well. Who knew? Perhaps Olaris would just give up this silly little endeavour of his, and things would just blow over. Only time would tell.