Adult-FanFiction.org : Movies

Summer Storms and Imaginary Kings	By : Jetredgirl Category: G through L > Labyrinth Views: 5486 -:- Recommendations : 1 -:- Currently Reading : 4
Disclaimer: I do not own or profit from Labyrinth or it's characters but hey if someone wants to sign them over to me i'll take 'em!

Chapter List
- 12
- 13
- 14
This chapter is about tying up a lot of loose ends, and preparing for the final arc of this tale.
Chapter 13
Early the next day, Sarah and Jareth rose, dressed and breakfasted together.
They were about to exit their rooms when Sarah stopped him.
"What is it?" He asked her, thinking something was amiss.
She wrapped her arms around him. "Just wanted another moment of alone time, Your Majesty." She said, pushing up on her toes and kissing him.
He smiled softly. Ahh..I cannot object to that, wife." He kissed her again, savoring her full lips.
Sarah stepped back, straightening up her clothing, and took a deep breath. "Okay, ready to face the day!"
Jareth opened the door, gesturing for her to go ahead of him.
Waiting in the hallway were guards, Caolin, and Sherryana.
Caolin was the first to speak. "My Lord, The council is waiting for your full report on the events in The Dead Kingdom; Perryn and Deela's demise, and your imprisonment of Princess Elspeth and Prince Elsian. They are quite insistent and wish to send and envoy here to speak with you personally."
Jareth gestured of Caolin to walk with him to his offices. He turned, squeezed Sarah's hand and nodded to her to be on her way as well.
"Thank you Caolin. I take it your abbreviated account was not good enough. Fine, Please inform them I expect a list of exactly whom they are sending, and when they are arriving. Also, I need to speak with Healer Merrik privately first thing. Please have him come to my study in one hour."
"Yes, Your Majesty, you are well?" His assistant asked.
"I'm am quite well, thank you. Full strength and fully rested." the king replied. "How is my sister?"
"According to Merrik, Justinia should be fully healed in a few days. Physically, at least, according to him. Her emotional state may be more tenuous." Caolin answered.
They paused at the door to Jareth's study, Caolin opened it and both men went in.
After the door was closed, and Jareth was seated at his desk, Caolin continued.
"Merrik believes Justiina will take a long time to heal emotionally, what with being used and betrayed by her husband in such a manner, and the loss of the pregnancy."
Jareth paused for a moment. "He is most likely correct. I will make sure to extend an invitation to her that she may stay here as long as she chooses. That reminds me, I will need you to accompany me to her former chambers to do a thorough search and completely remove any trace of that..person from this castle. We will set a time to burn any of his belongings that remain along with the book of evil magic, in a sacred fire."
"Yes, My Lord, I will go now and send the message to Merrik." Caolin bowed and turned.
"It is much appreciated, Caolin." the king said, starting to go through the papers built up over the past several days.
Caolin smiled inwardly at the king's words, thinking how much had changed these past weeks.
Such words were new to the king's vocabulary.
Meanwhile in Sarah's study, Sherryana was catching the queen up on the goings on within the kingdom, the two women setting out to straighten out a few tasks that had gone undone.
"The goblins were fairly well behaved, for goblins. They managed to only have a few small skirmishes which Caolin and myself were able to handle."
" Good, good..did the issue with the cheese maker get settled? I know he was having a thievery issue a few days ago." Sarah replied.
"They are still looking fort he culprits, but no more thefts have happened since before.. well, you know. The cheese maker suspects it was a few young goblins out for thrill seeking." Sherryana informed her.
"Most likely..who else would steal a block of aging goat cheese?" Sarah wondered rolling her eyes a little at the absurdity.
"Quite true, My Lady. May I say you are positively glowing with health today." The blonde said.
Sarah managed keep herself from breaking into a a big smile and spilling the beans, barely.
"Really? Thanks my friend. I guess some rest did me a world of good."
"Caolin told me of the remarkable ability you have been blessed with. Such a gift to have." Sherryana remarked.
Sarah stopped and thought a moment. "Yes, I suppose it is. Not going to take advantage of it though..I plan on only using it in emergency situations. It's..still very new to me. A lot to take in."
"I was running on adrenaline in a very dire situation, you know? It amazes me I didn't hurt anyone rather than help them. I guess I got lucky that everything managed to work out okay. I'm pretty amazed I even knew what to do. Must have been some sort of instinctual knowledge given to me with the power."
"You give yourself to little credit, You Majesty." Sherryana said to her.
Sarah gave he a little half smile, but said nothing. She did not tell Jareth, but she felt a little nauseated this morning. Not bad enough to need to vomit, but enough to know it was a preview of what was soon to come.
"When I am done here, I'm going to pay a visit to Justinia and check on her. Would you care to accompany me or stay here? Either way I hope you join me for lunch." She inquired to her assistant.
"I will accompany you, My Lady, if you would like." Sherryana answered.
"I would," Sarah said. "I really don't like being alone right now. I mean I know I'm never really alone, with guards lurking about behind me, but.. well you know what I mean I think. It's nice to have a companion."
"Then a companion you shall have." Sherryana said to her, reaching out a giving her hand a pat, understanding her hesitation about being alone.
Usually she would not be so familiar with a person of such stature, but Sarah made it clear that in private she wished Sherryana to act more like a friend than anything else.
They got to work, trying to clear up as much as possible before making their way to see the king's sister.
Merrik stood before the king's desk, having been summoned there by Caolin.
Jareth glanced up at him from a document he was reading. "Please, sit, Healer Merrik." He turned to Caolin. "Please leave us, I need to speak with Merrik privately."
Caolin nodded and took his leave.
"Merrik, what I am about to discuss with you is a subject that requires complete secrecy. Only myself, The Queen, and you will know of it at this time, am I clear?"
"Absolutely My Lord, I would never betray the Queen or yourself in any manner. I swear my life on that."
Jareth nodded at him. He did know. This is why he thought so highly of the man. Merrik was the best healer in the realm, and always completely loyal. He was well rewarded, good pay, with lush quarters and all the amenities.
"The Queen is with child. After lunch today you are to meet with her and make sure all is well, and she has some questions to ask you about pregnancy within our kind. you realize i'm sure the significance of this. There has never been a natural born heir to The goblin Throne, nor a child born to two Keepers."
Merrik was gaping at the king open mouthed. "Your Majesty..I..Congratulations My Lord! Of course! But if I may ask, why is this being kept a secret? Such a child should be cause for a great celebration."
Jareth knew he would be asked this. "This is the way the queen prefers it, for now. She is not very far into the pregnancy. She wishes, I think to be more secure about the situation before revealing it publicly. Also she is trying to be sensitive to Justinia's situation, with the loss of her pregnancy."
"As soon as we do, most likely in another month, we will need for a midwife to come, and attend to Her Majesty during this delicate time. no offense to you, of course, but it is tradition for such things to be taken care of by a female when it involves a royal birth."

Merrik agreed."no offense taken, Sire, While I have certainly attended to many births, a queen should have a midwife of high stature attend to the birth of such an important child. I will send out word as soon as you give me the go ahead to do so."

"Thank you, Merrik." the king said, "Oh, one more thing, about my sister. How is she, emotionally?"
Merrik bowed his head. He had become quite fond of the woman, the sadness in her eyes was heart wrenching."She is physically well healed, her energy is still quite low, but coming along. Emotionally, she barely speaks, and is in a depressed state. There is much sadness there. I've made sure she is watched around the clock, in case she decides to take drastic measures against herself. I do not know if she will ever be able to trust another man, a terrible pity for such a lovely woman as herself, to spend her entire life alone."
Jareth noticed a certain fondness in the healer's eyes. Ahh...he had a soft heart for his sister...interesting. While Jareth had no opposition to such a match, Merrik was good man, well respected, even though a great deal older than Justinia..his parents would look down on such a match for their daughter..at least his mother would. He was not sure about what his father would say anymore. It mightbe very difficult to find her another suitor now, once word gets out who and whatever former husband was, so Jastiel might be satisfied that Justinia found another husband at all. Regardless, it was way to soon to talk about such matters.
"Keep an eye on her for me Merrik, I trust you will make sure she gets only the best care."He told the healer.
"Yes Your Majesty." Merrik said, relieved to hear the king was showing concern for her well being.
"You may go. I will have Her Majesty meet with you in her study at 1:30." Jareth instructed him.
"Yes, My Lord. Again, congratulations." Merrik rose. "If I am to see her without a female attendant, perhaps you should be there as well."
The king nodded. "Thank you for the well wishes." Jareth said, then went back to reading over his documents, but he was finding it difficult to concentrate.
A child! He had always known eventually, whatever happened, he would be expected to contribute to the next generation. I was a duty all immortals knew was expected of them, since children were so few. This was different. Before he met Sarah he assumed he would find a suitable partner at some point and marry, then have a child or two.
He would not have made anyone else a Keeper though. Queen, possibly, but he had never met another until Sarah he ever even considered qualified for either position.
This was not a child born out of duty or convenience however. This was a child born of love, and that was an overwhelming thought, even to The Goblin King. This was a woman he would share his life with, child or no child. Her being born mortal made the chances higher, but he realized, even if she would have never gotten pregnant, he would want no other wife, or woman to bear his children.
He came back to himself, and noticed he was gazing out the window smiling.
Look at you, you git, daydreaming like you have nothing better to do. Shaking it off he got back to work. Tomorrow he was to hold court, and needed to have all these items organized.
Sarah and Sherryana knocked on the door to the Queen's Chambers, where Justinia was staying.
Jewel opened the door.
"Sarah!" she exclaimed, throwing her arms around the dark haired woman in a tight hug.
"Hello Jewel. Good to see you." Sarah hugged back, then pulled back and took Jewel by the hands.
"OH Sarah, " Jewel started "I'm am so glad to see you well. We were so worried."
"i'm doing fine, sweet girl, How is Justinia?" sHe asked quietly.
"She is..very quiet, sad." Jewel told her, lowering her voice as well. "mother says we should take her home in a few days."
""Is she awake?" Sarah asked the younger girl.
"It's hard to tell sometimes, but I think so." Jewel said. " Go in and see her, it's fine. No one else is here but me now. Jolena and myself have been with her constantly. Mother gets frustrated too easily. Father sits with her too when he can."
Sarah gestured for the other two to wait while she went in alone.
Justinia was tucked into bed, awake, it looked like, but distant and staring, her red hair splayed over the pillows, hands limply in her lap.
"Justinia?" Sarah softly called. "It's me Sarah, I came to see how you are, and if you need anything."
Sarah sat in the chair next to the bed, and laid her hand over the stricken woman's.
Justinia turned and looked at her blankly. "No, I don't need anything. Thank you, for letting me use your rooms. They are nice."
"Feel free to stay as long as you, like, I never use them anyway. I guess it's tradition for me to technically have my own rooms., but really I have no need for them." Sarah tried to speak in a light pleasant tone.
"Yes, it is tradition, but since you sleep with your..Justinia gulped down a sob.. "husband..." The words drifted away to nothing, the girl wringing her hands under Sarah's.
Sarah moved to sit on the bed.
"Justinia, what happened was not your fault. You were lied to, manipulated. Jareth told me you were a shy girl, not one to go out and look to be courted. This..person..took advantage of that, took advantage of your kindness, of your shyness. Tricked you into caring for him. No one blames you for what he did. He was an evil horrible man. I know you feel betrayed, but please don't do this to yourself."
Justinia started sobbing loudly enough that Jewel and Sherryana quickly came into the room.
"I didn't...I..I wasn't madly in love with him or any such thing...but he was the only one who ever wanted to marry me...he..and now..how can I ever find another? Trust another?"
The re dhaired girl cried, and grabbed Sarah's hands, imploring Sarah for answers no one could give her.
"I just want to die...why did he...use me? I let him..be intimate with me..touch me. I knew he did not truly love me but..he was my husband so it was expected...but now..I'm alone, and used..and will have a lonely pathetic life."
She dropped Sarah's hands and turned away, throwing herself into the pillows.
"Then..when I was was with child..or thought I was with child..I don't even no if that WAS a child that was growing in me...I was happy..even though I was sick...and now it's all just..gone."
Sarah laid a hand on her shoulder, motioning for Jewel to go to the other side, and sit next to her sister.
"I do not know what you will do. I wish I had all the answers. I don't, but i'l tell you a story. When I was in college, my roommate..that is a person who you share a room with...she had an abusive boyfriend. He would smack her around, call her names, treat her like dirt. Then he would apologize and be all lovey dovey, and shef ell for it time and time again. She was such a good person, really smart. This guy though,, he knew all the right words to say, the right moves to make, to manipulate her. She was a lot like you, very shy, so she thought he was the best she would get. Eventually she did get rid of him, and met a great guy got married and had a beautiful daughter. She got lucky that she figured him out, but a lot of people don't. They let people manipulate them out of fear of being alone."
Sarah put an arm around Justinia, taking her hand again.
"You just have to hang in there, get through the sadness, and come out the other side stronger. I swear it will get better."
Sarah felt the girl's despair, and wished she could make it better, but knew she could not. Pain is one of those things that no matter how many people are there, you still have to get through alone.
Sarah got up and moved away from the bed a little. " Justinia, please don't hesitate to ask if you do need anything, I mean it, anything. I have to go, I have an appointment, but send word and I will be back if you need me to come."
The girl in the bed said nothing, just nodded and sniffled into the pillow.
Sarah turned to Jewel "Please stay here with her, no need to see us out. Make sure she eats something."
"Yes, Lady Sarah." Jewel replied, moving closer to her sister and stroking her hair.
Sarah quietly left the room, Sherryana behind her. once they were back in the hallway. Sherryana asked. "Your Majesty, do you think she will harm herself?"
"I don't know." Sarah said. "I hope not. We can only wait, and worry, and make sure someone is always with her."
The two went back to the study, where lunch was waiting for them, so they ate and talked at the same time, planning Sarah's schedule for the next several days.
At approximately 1:30, Merrik knocked on the door.o
"Come in!' Sarah replied to the knock.
Merrik stepped into the rom and bowed. "My Lady Sarah."
"OH! I almost forgot. Yes! Sherryana, I have a private matter to talk to with Merrik, why don't you deliver that message approving the kitchen budget to the staff there, while I take care of this."
"Yes, Your Majesty." Sherryana curtseyed to the Queen and left.
After the door firmly closed, she turned to the healer. i guess Jar..His Majesty explained the situation?"
"Yes, My Lady, I offer my heartfelt congratulations on the impending birth."
"Thanks, Merrik..now, I'm not sure how this works, do you need to do an..well.. an examination to check on things? I had a doctor back in the mortal world for that, obviously, but a bit confused about what goes on here, medical check up wise."
Merrik answered quickly. "You mean a physical examination? No that is not necessary at this time, I can use healer magic to do a per functionary exam, ascertain your health and the health of the child, and to approximate how far along you are. You will have a midwife to attend to more intimate necessities when you are ready to make your condition public. While I am no stranger attending to pregnancies and births, as it required to be able to do so, a Queen by tradition is always cared for by a midwife. Usually I would have a female attendant present as well, but have been sworn to secrecy by the king."
"Okay, what do I need to do?" Sarah asked him.
Just then Jareth appeared. "I apologize. I am few minutes late,"
""That's fine, since i didn't know you were coming." Sarah told him.
"It wouldn't be proper, your Majesty, for me to examine you without an attendant. Typically that would be a female attendant, but since this case is unique, The king being here was the only option." Merrik informed her.
"Oh." Sarah answered. "I guess I can understand that."
"Please lie down on the sofa, and I will simply move my hands over you, using the proper enchantments to get the information. It is quick, and painless." Merrik gestured for her to follow his instructions.
Sarah did so, with Jareth coming to sit in the chair next to the sofa, he remained silent so the healer could concentrate.
Merrik breathed deeply for a minute, then began chanting softly, moving his hands slowly from her head to her feet, stopping at her abdomen for a moment. His hands and eyes were glowing dimly, as he worked.
After a few minutes, his hand dropped and backed away, letting his magic subside.
"You are quite healthy, My Lady, the babe is extraordinarily strong already. I have never experienced such power in a child still in the womb, it is very healthy and developing nicely as well..you approximately one month along."
Sarah sat up and smiled at her husband. "See? Everything is okay."
Jareth smirked. "No matter what you say, my Queen, I will always worry."
Sarah reached over and touched his hand, caressing it lightly before pulling away. She tried to not be too blatant with affection around others. She knew Jareth was not one to be that open.
"Merrik, may I ask you a few things? Is an immortal pregnancy the same, I mean time wise, and symptoms, you know, morning sickness, cravings, as mortal pregnancies?"
"Yes, and no, your Majesty. sometimes immortal pregnancies can be unpredictable, but you are newly changed, so gestation should be about the same for you. Have you experienced any symptoms yet?"
"I have been tired off and on, and was a little nauseated today." Sarah said.
"Yes, that is to be expected. Your body will do what it needs to do to accommodate for the child. I will closely monitor your progress, then when the midwife comes, she will be able to help you further."
"Alright. Ummm. can we.. I don't know if I should ask about, but the subject has come up and I was wondering, I mean we were wondering..about, um.. being..intimate." Sarah stammered, blushing and looking at Jareth, then looking down.
Merrik grinned to himself. He could tell such a question was very hard for her to ask, understandable so. Obviously, The King and Queen were having relations, but it wasn't something openly talked about here like above, but he was a healer, and it was a necessity to be able to discuss intimate details when necessary. The King had even granted him leave to the mortal world a few times to observe certain practices. He liked to be as informed as possible.
"As long as you remain healthy and you are comfortable, most couples can continue having relations up until labor. If you experience pain or bleeding during such times, then you should cease, and contact myself or, later on, your midwife. Loss of pregnancy because of intimacy is very rare. Of course, at the later stages, you might was to refrain from anything too..vigorous."
Sarah was still blushing, but looked up and met the healer's eyes and smiled a little. "Thank you, I think that is everything I wanted to ask, for now."
"You are welcome, Your Majesty, it is an honor to serve you both." Merrik bowed.
Jareth stood. "Thank you Merrik, and remember your vow of secrecy."
"My loyalty is absolute, My Lord." He said, then turned to Sarah again. "I will take my leave now, My Lady, if I may?"
"Yes, Merrik, of course..we will meet her again in...say one week?"
"I will make note of it. Have a lovely day, Majesties." The healer then bowed once more, and left the study.
Jareth pressed himself against Sarah's back, kissing her on the neck, placing his hands on her abdomen. "You smell wonderful. Have I told your your scent has changed? It's intoxicating."
"It has? I guess I wouldn't notice those things. I wonder if it's the pregnancy, or my power increasing."Sarah put her arms over his, tipping her neck to him.
"Both I would say." Jareth answered, nibbling her skin. He placed one last kiss on her cheek, then back away from her..and sighed. "I wish I could stay, and we could continue down this path.. I am meeting Caolin to go to Justinia's former rooms, and search it. We can continue this line of conversation tonight I think." He smirked at her as she turned and kissed him.
"I still have a few things to take care of too, my love." She said as she caressed his cheek.
"Let me know what you find, if you find, anything. Please have Justinia's things gathered and sent to her in the Queen's chambers. I am worried about her Jareth. I saw her today, she is pretty bad off."
Jareth frowned. "What can we do? She will recover, Sarah. She is freeto stay here as long as she wants, I have Merrik watching over her, but beyond that, there is little else to do, but let her work through it in her own mind."
"Jareth, she is your sister, she needs us all to be there." Sarah reminded him.
Jareth sighed again. "Sarah, you know my family is not like yours. I will always do my duty to my family, and make sure they are provided for. I do not wish an ill upon her, but I do not know what you think I can do."
"Go see her Jareth..talk to her? I know what told me, but maybe it's time to change all that. Maybe we can bring this family closer." Sarah answered.
"I will see her if that is your wish, but I doubt I can lend any comfort to her." Jareth frowned again.
"Sarah, I know you want my family to be similar to the way family is thought of above, but it will in all likelihood never be for us. You, and I, and our children, we can become that kind of family here. It is doubtful most of my other kin will even want that kind of closeness. Jewel accepted, who is becoming very influenced by you."
"You say that like it's a bad thing, Jareth." Sarah remarked.
"It isn't to me, but out in society, it may be difficult for her to find acceptance among her peers."Jareth informed her.
"Jewel is a lovely young woman, and any man would be lucky to have her. Besides she is too young to worry about that now anyway."Sarah crossed her arms.
"Yes I know, she is equivalent to a young teenager, maybe as old as you were when you first came here. But, as I said, it is not uncommon for immortals at her age to take lovers and, yes, court. Purity is not so highly prized here."
"I'm not saying she should remain chaste until marriage, Jareth. I'm not that much of a hypocrite. Just my opinion, she is too young to be worrying about who she is going to marry."
"I do agree with that. She hasn't even finished her schooling yet." Jareth said. "I need to get back to work. Oh, Council is sending someone to hear our testimony against Elspeth and Elsian, and to get a full report of what happened. You might want to prepare yourself and what you will tell them. They will be here tomorrow."
"Alright, Jareth, I guess there is no getting around it." Sarah sighed. She wish she could just forget about all of it, b t suspected the aftereffects were something she was going to have to deal with for some time to come.
Sherryana returned shortly after Jareth left. "Is everything well, Lady Sarah?" she asked.
"Okay I guess, I need to work on my statement for the council people that are coming. Will you help me?"
""Yes, I will be glad to help." The petite blonde answered.
"Let's get to it then, no sense putting it off." Sarah cringed a bit at having to rehash it.
The two women set down and got to work.
Jareth and Caolin, as well as several guards, searched Vernon and Justinia's rooms, finding nothing of value, but disposing of all of the man's belongings. Jareth had a servant pack up Justinia's belongings and sent it to her current rooms.
They also searched Deela's quarters, but she had brought nothing but a small bag. They would have to inform the council that both of their quarter's at Council Hall would need to be searched, as well as Any rooms Vernon had occupied at the family home within the capital city.
The two men then went out into the forest, a built a magic fire, burning all things Vernon and Deela had brought with them to The Goblin Kingdom, as well as the book of evil magic. As it turned to ash, they watched silently. when it was done, Jareth magically cooled the ashes and spread them far and wide, so no two pieces of ash were in the same place in the realm. He was taking no chances.
Went they got back to the castle it was nearly dinnertime, but Jareth had one thing he needed to do. As he had promise Sarah, he went to see his sister.
When he entered the rooms, His mother was there. She stood as he came in. "Jareth, I hope you are well." She said in greeting.

"I am fine. Mother. I wish to speak with Justinia, privately."
"But Jareth she is.." Illiana started to speak.
"Mother, I know very well how she is. No less than 3 people have informed me of her state. Now please leave us, but remain outside. You may come in when I leave." Jareth said to her, his mouth tightening.
Jareth stepped into the bedchamber, and sat at his sister's bedside. saying nothing for a while.
Justinia sat back against the pillows with her head bowed, feeling ashamed in the presence of her brother, thinking her must hate her and blame her for everything.
"I am..sorry. my brother." She said softly, tears forming and running down her cheeks, but she refused to let herself sob like she had earlier with Sarah.
Jareth leaned forward. his elbows on his knees. ""You have nothing to be sorry for, Justinia. We were all deceived. You most of all."
She looked up, her eyes huge and sad. "How can you say that? If I wouldn't have been so foolish..Your wife almost died because of me! Father told me what you did, what she did, saving me. You should have let me die, Jareth."
"Justina" He said firmly. and reluctantly took her hand. "do not say that. I do not blame you, Sarah does not blame you. you are my sister. It is my duty to protect my family. to save your life your soul from the darkness, I had no choice."
Justinia was surprised her brother had taken her hand, and stared at the sight of her hand in his gloved one. Such familiarity from Jareth? It was unheard of. She could not help but smile a little at the strangeness.
Jareth saw the small half smile appear. "There now, see? If you can manage a smile tonight, try to manage another tomorrow. Eventually, You will get on with things. My wife has asked me to inform you, that you are welcome to stay here as long as you desire to. also As your King here, I command that you eat. U have also been told you haven't been doing much of that either. you must take care of yourself."
Justina smiled a little wider at being commanded to eat. Now that sounded like Jareth. No arguing, just do it.
"Yes, My Lord." She said, meeting his eyes again.
He stood up and cleared his throat. " I must join my wife for dinner, Justinia, sleep well." With that Jareth left the chambers, motioning to his mother to go back in.
The next morning, the two council officials arrived, and met with Jareth, Sarah, Caolin, Jastiel, and wanted to speak with Justinia as well, but The Goblin King convinced them that was too ill to be questioned yet.
They took Elspeth and Elsian with them to be kept confined within guarded quarters at council Hall until the trial, which would take place in a week's time.
The council informed The King and queen all necessary searched of quarters had taken place, and anything seemingly related to the events were secured. although there didn't seem to be much, just some writings made by Deela about securing some odd herbs that were possibly used to cast certain spells, and a vial of the poison used on the Queen.
Vernon had been wise enough not o keep anything pointing to his heinous plans around. The King and Queen of the Elf Kingdom had also been informed and were waiting at Talystra to attend the trial of their adopted children. They were shocked and horrified at the whole debacle and that their children had been involved.
Once the council members had left taking the prisoners with them, the air seemed to lighten in The Goblin Kingdom.
They knew that they still had the trial to attend, but it seemed like everyone was getting back to normal.
After her brother had spoken with her, Justinia started to improve. She did not yet know how long she wanted to stay in The Goblin Kingdom, but knew she had to decide soon. They were all returning to Talystra for the trial, and the rest of her family would be staying there after it was over, so she needed to make a decision to come back or to stay there.
She was leaning towards staying in The Goblin Kingdom, though if she did, she would move back to her own quarters. It was accepted to stay in Sarah's room's while she was ill, but she thought it would be best to move when she returned, IF she returned permanently.
She thought maybe she could ask her brother for some sort of position in the castle. Sarah had a thought, and they had discussed it briefly, that maybe she would enjoy working in the royal library, as the castle lacked a full time caretaker there. It was sounding more and more attractive to remain within the Goblin lands, and do something useful, rather than go back to Talystra and wait for her mother to try and marry her off again.
A week later, they were all present in The Council Hall for the trial Of the Prince and Princess of The Elf Kingdom.
Sarah was in full blown morning sickness mode. Sitting in the front row of chairs between Jareth and Sherryana, she was having a difficult time focusing on the trial.
The nausea had started 3 days earlier and had barely abated. When they had transported to the gates of the city, Jareth and Caolin had had to catch her before she fell from dizziness. Then she spent the hour long carriage ride to the hall laid across her husband's lap, with his arms wrapped around her, observers be damned.
Merrik had done a full checkup before they left and pronounced her perfectly healthy, just beginning the throes of pregnancy. Regardless, They were concerned at the strength of her symptoms. The Healer believed it was because of the power the child held, and that her body would adjust and her equilibrium would return.
It was becoming difficult to hide from everyone, and Sarah suspected Sherryana had figured it out, as she had taken to bringing Sarah ginger tea and plain biscuits to nibble on. The woman was nothing if not discreet however, and said nothing.
Each witness had to stand and answer the questions the members of the council asked. When it was Sarah's turn, she stood up, shaking a little, but determined to remain on her feet. They went in order of position, with Jareth after her and the last to testify.

She told what had happened, from being called to Justinia's side, until they had returned, only leaving out her visit with The Labyrinth and what had happened when her and Jareth had killed the darkness and saved Justinia. They all had agreed it was best the council not know the extent of Sarah's gift, and the newly discovered aspect of The Labyrinth itself.
"Your Majesty, "One of the council members asked her. "May I ask, what punishment would you enact against The Prince and Princess? If it were up to you to decide, that is."
Sarah took a deep breath. This is where her and Jareth disagreed. Jareth wanted them executed, but Sarah did not. She hoped there was some other way to assure they would not repeat their actions, and be punished, but she did not want them to die.
More over, She saw their parents sitting there, in such pain, and could not reason doing that to them. No matter what, they were someone's children. She simply did not want anyone else to die. Also, she did not want to watch anyone else die, and if they were executed, it would be expected that they would all be there.
"I would suggest they be stripped of their magic, and confined to their kingdom, for a set period of time. If they are suitably rehabilitated in say, 300 years, a small amount of magic be returned, and they be allowed to enter society again. However, if they then attempt to harm anyone again, well, I cannot say that death would be out of the question then, as they would have proven themselves to be a danger to others. Although they conspired against my kingdom, my husband, and myself, in the end, I do believe they did not realize the extent of the avarice they were participating in until it was right in front of them."
Jareth's frowned to himself, but he knew what she was going to say. They had already discussed it. Loudly.
"Thank you, Your Majesty. We will take your mercy into consideration." The council member who had asked the question answered.
There were many murmurs in the hall, no one expected anything but a demand for execution from both The Goblin King and Queen. All other monarchs in the room had agreed it was what they would have done.
"Are there any other questions for The Goblin Queen?" The head councilperson asked, an ancient Elf with blue hair. The question was met by silence. "Please sit, My Lady." He said kindly to her, noticing she was swaying a little.
"Jareth, King of the Goblins, please rise." The elf said.
Jareth stood, having worn his formal armor, to look as intimidating as possible.
"We have your statement, and there is a question that has risen among us. You state you were forced to end your wife's life, as demanded by Keeper Law, and yet, she somehow makes a miraculous recovery. This is...rather odd. Can you explain further?"

"I do not know the mechanics of it, honorable Council, I am no healer. It is our collected belief the The Labyrinth stepped in somehow, and was able to save her life and cut off contact between itself and Vergul. It's power is still such a mystery to us all."
It was the truth, but left the pieces out that Sarah and Jareth both felt should not be known to anyone who was not there, and that The Labyrinth did not want anyone besides them to know.
"I see. Tell me, Goblin king, what punishment to you deem suitable?" Another member asked.
"I believe they should be summarily executed. My wife has a kind heart, but I think given a chance they would happily do it again. I do apologize the The Elf King and Queen. They are kind people and good neighbors whom I bear no malice to. Truth is truth. I will not waiver in my stance."
The murmurs started again. This was what they expected of The Goblin King.
The head councilperson nodded, making notes. "Any further questions for The Goblin King?"
Again met with silence. "Please be seated, Your Majesty."
Jareth sat back down looking at his wife. Even though they disagreed, she took his hand and squeezed it slightly. She understood why he felt the way he did, even if she didn't agree.
They were all excused, and the hall cleared. All parties were given overnight accommodation, in case it became necessary, so Sarah, Jareth, and their group took advantage of it by going to their assigned rooms. Of course Jareth's family, who attended the Council frequently had permanently assigned rooms.
Merrik had also traveled with them, to attend to both Justinia and Sarah. When the king and queen got to their rooms, Jareth commanded everyone leave them, so Sarah could rest. He told all that the trial was upsetting to her, which it was, but it was a good cover for her needing to lay down for as long as she could.
Laying on the bed, she watched as Jareth eat the lunch that was brought to them..she had Sherryana packed some of the ginger tea and was waiting for her to bring her a cup.
"I really wish you would try to eat something, Sarah." He said to her from the table.
"I want to, husband, I really do, but my stomach is doing flip flops. I think it is nerves on top of nausea. Ugh. This kid of yours is torturing me from the inside." She answered, rubbing her stomach.
The king smirked. "I do believe you were present at conception, love."
Sarah rolled her eyes."Yeah yeah yeah..men. Doesn't matter if the mortal or not..they just don't get it. Just wait until I'm big and fat, and full of hormones all at once. You will get yours then, daddy."
Jareth had finished eating and made his way to the bed, laying next to her. "Oh I'm sure I will..get mine..as you say. If you weren't feeingl ill, I would get mine now." He said, giving her that look that made her think of a lion stalking it's meal.
Sarah rolled her eyes again. "Oh yes Your Majesty, I'm feeling sexy now...tell me, is it the constant vomiting, or the dizzy spells that make me stumble around like a drunken monkey that turn you on?"
Jareth laughed, deep and long. He did so appreciate her unique humor. "Ahh..thank you my love, for the laugh. This day has been hard on all of us, the tension and seriousness, getting to even me."
She observed him with a cynical look, raising one eyebrow in a gesture so like her husband's. "Yeah, well I was serious..but whatever floats your boat there Jareth."
He laughed even harder..and she couldn't help but start to laugh a little herself, at his rare display of jocularity. "Jareth, you are a nut, seriously, sometimes I wonder about your sanity."
He wrapped his arms around her and had her lay across his lap and stroked her hair, his chuckles subsiding. "Yes, my love, I agree, at times. However I have never declared myself completely sane, nor do I believe I am. I have mentioned this before, ruling a kingdom full of rather eccentric creatures will do that to you."
Sarah smiled, raised up, and looped her arms around him, pulling him into a kiss."I think I feel a little better, you are nothing if not entertaining. some of my nerves have settled too. I feel bad though, this is a serious thing here."
Jareth's grin melted away. "I know it is. Promise me, whatever happens, we will present a united front, and accept whatever ruling the Council hands down."
"Do you think they will be executed?" Sarah asked him.
Jareth thought a moment before answering."I do not know. You know why I have to be a proponent of the maximum punishment Sarah, to stand and declare any less would be a sign of weakness...and I do not feel any mercy for those traitorous vile people. I will accept if that is not what is handed down. not happily, but I will accept.
Sarah frowned. "I just don't want to go to it, Jareth. I can't. No matter what, Seeing someone ...beheaded..I can't watch it. It seems so barbaric."
"It is, Sarah."Jareth answered. "But we don't have the options that are available aboveground. Any other form of execution here would be torture and take time, or involve magic that is forbidden to wield. While I am not opposed to that for those nasty pieces of work, it's the only form that is as quick as possible here."
Sarah got a sad look on her face, making Jareth's heart soften a little. "I promise I will try to convince the Council that you do not need to be present. Maybe they will accept that you are ill. If we told them about the pregnancy it would be easier to get them to excuse you. As long as I, My father, and Caolin, are present if it does indeed come to execution, that should satisfy them. Justinia has already been excused. Women can get get excused easier than men. Males here are expected to learn to view such events when necessary."
"I would prefer not to announce hit here and now, but if it comes to that, I suppose I have no choice but to let the council know. I think Sherryana knows." Sarah said.
"Most likely. I suspect Caolin knows as well, he gave me an odd look at the city gates today when you fell into our arms. They spend enough time around us to sense the changes." Jareth replied, kicking off his boots and reclining on the bed.
"Let's wait and see what happens." Sarah said. She curled up at Jareth's side and dozed off.
A few minutes later, there was a knock on the door.
"Come in" Jareth said quietly. Sensing who it was.
Sheerryana stepped in with a tray, with the tea and stopped when she saw them on the bed.
"Oh, I am sorry for disturbing Your Majesties." She said, blushing a little.
Jareth smirked. "You are not disturbing us, Sherryana, The queen is fast asleep. Please put the tray on the table, she can have it when she wakes. I will just warm it with a little magic if needed."
"Yes, My Lord." Sherryana quickly did as Jareth told her to do, curtseyed and left the room.
Caolin was waiting for her as she closed the door. "Well?"
"The Queen is sleeping, Sir Caolin, I get the distinct impression they do not want to be disturbed further."
Caolin took her aside and whispered. "Do you suspect what I suspect?"
Sherryana grinned at him, her eyes alight. "Yes, it is more than a suspicion."
Caolin grinned back. "Are you sure?"
Sherryana met his eyes "A woman knows these things, Caolin. We must let them decide when it is time for to make it known publicly. If they are keeping it to themselves, they have good reason."
Caolin took her hand in his joy for the King and Queen. "Soon there will be much celebrating in The Goblin Kingdom." Caolin escorted Sherryana to her rooms, to await a summons from the council.
2 hours later, it came. The council was handing down their decision in 1 hour. Giving all parties time to get to the hall.

Jareth woke his wife. "Sarah, we must get ready to go to the hall."
Sarah blinked, stretched and yawned. "Already? Is that a good sign or a bad sign?"
"It is hard to say. I warmed your tea, so drink it and eat a biscuit or two, then we will be on our way." Jareth answered.
"If the decide too...I mean, how long will it be until they.."Sarah had a hard time saying the words.
"It will be first thing in the morning, Which will require us to remain overnight. Or, at least those of us who will be there. If you can get an exemption, I will take you home and come back." Jareth told her, understanding her need to be away from the situation.
Sarah sipped her tea. "No, if it comes to that I will stay here with you. Even if I can't make myself go, I don't want to leave you alone, and I don't want to sleep alone right now." She sounded a little whiney even to her own ears. Damn hormones.
Jareth pulled his cape, boots and gloves back on, and straightened his clothing.
"If you insist, I would prefer you to be near me at this time anyway. I do not like how sick you have been. Even if it is supposed to be normal."
Sarah's nausea had relented, the nap and the tea had helped a great deal. She did feel her nervousness coming back though.
She finished her tea and managed to eat several of the plain biscuits. She noted to herself, while they called them biscuits here, they were more like thick saltines. Whatever they called them, they did help.
She went to the mirror and brushed her hair, then smoothed her dress and slipped her shoes back on.
"Alright, husband." She sighed. Let's do this."
They left the room, finding everyone waiting for them in the hallway.
Sherryana stepped forward. "Feeling better, My Lady?" she asked.
"Yes." Sarah replied. "I do feel much better. Thank you for the tea."
"You are welcome, Your Majesty, it is my duty to serve you." The blonde replied, but gave her a small wink.
Sarah smiled at her gesture. They had to play the roles of queen and servant in public, but they were to the point were Sarah considered the woman to be her very dear friend, so they devised little private signals to give each other to make sure they knew it was just playacting to them.
Sarah turned and took her husbands offered arm, and the group made their way to the hall.
They took their places in the first 2 rows, across from The Elf King and Queen and their party.
Elspeth and Elsian were brought in to stand in front of the council, hands bound behind their backs, and heavily guarded.
The head councilperson stood.
"This was not an easy decision. We do not take the ending of any life lightly. Our people, while numerous, are not so many that we can afford to throw life away with little thought."
"However, you both knew that participating in acts of such an abominable nature were against every law held sacred here. Not only did you attempt to kill a Queen of this realm once, you then participated in her kidnapping, and used a magic so evil it has been pronounced forbidden here.
You attempted to raise the dead black souls of those who suffered so greatly thousands of years ago,, which not only is against the laws of magic, it could have reigned death and destruction upon not only our world, but ALL worlds. Including the mortal world, which would have been especially defenseless against it's power.
You participated in the attempt to corrupt A Keeper of The Labyrinth, the most sacred power in all the worlds, and joined in a plot to kill The Goblin King himself."
The elf cleared his throat.
"It is decided, that you Elspeth, High Princess of The Elf Kingdom, be executed at sunrise tomorrow, for the crimes of attempted murder of The Goblin Queen, not once, but twice, kidnapping of The Goblin Queen, attempting to corrupt and/or murder The Keepers of The Labyrinth, Jareth, King of The Goblins, and Sarah, Queen of The Goblins, and for the use of forbidden magic. May The Gods have mercy upon you in The Summerlands."
The white haired woman sobbed quietly to herself. The King and Queen of the Elf Kingdom wept openly.
Sarah even teared up, and Jareth looked on, showing little emotion.
"It is decided you, High Prince Elsian, shall be stripped of magic, and be confined to The Elf Kingdom for no less than 500 years, For kidnapping and attempted murder of the Goblin Queen, and for the use of forbidden magic."
The crowd was murmuring loudly, they did not expect to different sentences.
"Quiet please, I will explain." The councilperson said. The din quieted.
"Prince Elsian, in the end, your sister did the right thing. She asked to see us privately not 2 hours ago. She confessed that she had to convince you to participate, and while you went along, your knowledge of what was going to take place was limited, and that you did not know she was planning on poisoning The Goblin Queen in this very hall."
"Therefore we chose to show you mercy, as we believe there is hope you may serve a purpose in this world, and do something decent with your life. Your sister has given you your life. Do not waste it."
"You will be confined until the morning, then after the execution, you may return to The Elf Kingdom with your family. Remember, You will not step one foot outside the Elf lands, or you will join your sister. You will also be required to do public service in The Elf Kingdom. We will expect a list of services be provided to go over and decide where you might do the most good there for your people. As I live there, I will oversee this part of your sentence personally."
The pale haired young man also wept, in sorrow, and relief.
He was allowed to embrace his twin, and would be allowed along with the rest of her family to spent this evening with her in her quarters. They were led away from the hall, The King and Queen of The Elves following.
"Goblin King, Goblin Queen, please rise." The elf said.
Jareth and Sarah stood. Jareth took Sarah's hand in his, giving her a nod and smile in reassurance.
'It is my sincerest hope you are satisfied with the outcome. I have received a request from your party, that Lady Sarah, Queen of the Goblins, is ill and wishes to be excused from viewing the execution. Is this correct?"
"Yes, Honorable Head Councilperson." Jareth spoke loud and firm.
"What say you, Goblin Queen?" He turned to Sarah, waiting for her reply.
"I have been ill the past several days, Honorable Head Councilperson, and do not think I will have the strength, either physically or emotionally to attend."
Plus, she said to herself, I really really don't want to. Elspeth was major bitch and she would gladly love another shot at her, but watching her die was not going to help her feel better, or help get over what had happened.
"You are excused from attending Your Majesty. It is noted The Goblin King, his father, Duke Jastiel, and his assistant Sir Caolin, will represent The Goblin Kingdom at tomorrows execution. The Duchess Justinia has already been excused, also due to health matters." The elf announced.
Sarah breathed a huge sigh of relief. She wasn't looking forward to staying here for the night, but at least that much was a big load off her mind.
"The trial is now done. You are excused to retire for the evening, All who are expected to attend will receive formal notice, then shall convene tomorrow at sunrise here, and walk to the execution yard in formation. please wear formal attire."
The crowd filtered out. Then guards led any royal attendees to their rooms or carriages. Lastly, The Goblin Kingdom contingent left, solemnly making there way to their quarters.
Sarah did a good job of holding her tears in until Jareth closed the door behind them. She turned to her husband, tears streaming down her face.
"God, Jareth, please tell me we will never have to go through this again. I know I should feel justified, but I don't, I feel horrible for those people. At least they will have their son, but..."she could not speak any more.
Jareth held her tightly to him. His sweet Sarah, such a heart she had. She was so strong, but he knew her kind, soft insides so well now.
He did not feel a bit sorry for the shrew of a Princess, but Sarah, his beloved.. he understood this was who she was. He would not want her any other way. As Caolin had said weeks ago, She was the heart of his kingdom now, and what a pure heart it was.
"They will recover from this, precious. They are strong people. I am surprised Elspeth could commit any act of kindness. I guess Elsian is the only person in this world she cared about enough to do that for." He spoke into her hair.
He kissed her forehead, and wiped her tears away. "It is my sincere hope we never have to go through anything like this again as well. I cannot make that promise though. Let us just work very hard to keep it form happening again."
She nodded. but remained silent.
"Alright, I am going to send for some dinner, then you are going straight to bed. I will not wake you in the morning." He told her. He silently hoped she would sleep until they returned from the execution.
So they dined mostly in silence, then Sarah changed into a nightgown and crawled into bed. Jareth stayed up for a while, quietly thinking of what was to come, and going over the days events. Finally he changed into his sleeping pans and got into bed, holding Sarah to him tightly as he slept.
He awoke an hour before sunrise, quickly bathed, dressed and ate a light breakfast. He didn't eat much, what with the unpleasant task before him, making his stomach tight. Sarah was sleeping soundly thank the Gods, he said to himself.
He stepped into the hall, where his guards, and Caolin, were waiting for him. They then went and met Jastiel at the doors to The Council Hall.
Jareth steeled himself. looking at his companions. "Alright, let's get this unpleasantness over with, so I can take my wife home."
The doors were opened for them, and they went inside to make meet the others.
When it was done, the party of The Elf kingdom was escorted to their home, taking the body of Elspeth with them for her funeral rites, then her ashes would be interred in the family crypt.
Jareth returned to his rooms, finding Sarah up, and drinking tea.
"Good morning Sarah, how are you feeling this day?" Trying to keep his tone light.
"Jareth, no need to beat around the bush. Is it done?" She asked frankly.
He hesitated. "Yes. It is done. It was very quick. They are back in the Elf Kingdom. Elspeth will be given proper rites there."
Sarah nodded, but said nothing. There was really nothing more to say.
Sarah had bathed and dressed when she had awoken. He mind going to the events happening close by. She tried not to dwell on it, but it had proven difficult. She had packed their belongings as well, to pass some time.
She finished her tea in silence. Jareth sitting across from her lost in his own thoughts.
"Can we go home now? I don't want to be here any longer." She finally asked.
"As soon as we are ready, the carriages are waiting to take us to the gates. We will be home within 2 hours." Jareth answered.
"Good, then let's go. I packed our bags." She reached and grabbed his hand, pulling him up with her.
"As you wish, precious, I wholeheartedly concur. I will have the guards carry them down." Jareth replied, looping his arm around her waist, and walking to the door, out of the hall, and home they all went.
Back to The Goblin Kingdom, looking towards their bright future, letting the darkness of the past slip into memory.
In the end, I felt that Elsian was sort of a tag along, and not particularly a bad guy. I didn't have the heart to kill him, and it also gave Elspeth a little redemption.
I went with beheading as the form of execution because besides poison(hey it worked for Socrates right) and being burned alive(As a Pagan Witch I couldn't go that direction for obvious reasons), I couldn't figure out any other way immortals would be executed...and hanging is too "wild west," plus not sure how it would work on an immortal character, if the snapping of the neck would actually be fatal or not. Not a really pleasant thing to think about either let me tell you.
I didn't really plan for it to be divided by sex, on who attends the execution, it just played out that way. don't blame me, my muse did it! Really I knew Jareth would WANT to, if for no other reason just to make sure the deed was done. I knew too, if they both were there, I would have to write that scene out, and honestly didn't want to go there.
Anyway, the next chapter will jump forward a bit, not going to go on for 5 chapters about pregnancy haha, I think that would be overkill, we all know how it works. I have one last plot point to work out besides that anyway. Be prepared for the return of the last major character not yet seen! I'm sure most of you knew it was coming eventually anyway, right?
- 12
- 13
- 14
You need to be logged in to leave a review for this story.You need to be logged in to leave a review for this story.
Report Story

Summer Storms and Imaginary Kings