Valentine Evenings

The castle was alive with excitement. Goblins running from room to room, carrying linens, candles, streamers, flowers and food. One had to be extremely careful while walking down the castle's hallways. Goblins were likely not to watch where they were going, and they often ran into walls, not to mention a person who might be walking in their path of destruction.

Cassandra dodges one such goblin, a stout fellow carrying blankets far above his line of sight. Carefully she stepped through a doorway into the ballroom.

She preferred to call the room the mirror gallery, for along every wall there were gilt framed mirrors of every size and shape. At night it was quite an eerie experience to be found in that room. Between moonlight and candlelight the shadows and reflection filled the space with magic.

Magic. What a strange word to be used here where magic was indeed a solid, real thing. Cassandra learned quickly that while this kingdom indeed consisted of illusions, there resided here a very real sort of magic, magic forgotten long ago by the mortal world.

She made her way across the room, her black boots making soft pattering sounds on the black and gold marbled floor. She found her quarry at the far side of the room looking over a particularly garish flower display.

Cassandra took a moment to study him while his face was full of concentration. He was quite the opposite of his brother, dark hair and green eyes held them apart. But although the eyes were different colors, they still were very much alike.

There was a determination in their gazes, a sort of ruthlessness mixed with passion. Devilment and mischief were also to be found in them, and something else, something she had not yet been able to identify.

"My lady, what a pleasant surprise to find you here. May I ask for what reason am I so blessed with your presence?"

Cassandra smiled. The thing that suprised her the most was the simple fact that he said that statement not sarcastically, but with a gallant air.

"Actually Stephan, " she smiled and motioned to her clothes. "I was going for a ride and I wondered if you would care to join me."

Stephan looked taken aback for a second, probably suprised she had just asked him to do something with her. He was about to agree, but then a goblin ran into his left leg. As it apologized profusely and ran to the other side of the room he shook his head sadly.

"I'm afraid I can't do that my lady, I seem to have my hands full at the moment."

Cassandra had to turn away before Stephan could see her smile. Oh it was all working so perfectly! She had them so confused they didn't know what to do with her.

"Well," she muttered to herself while dodging more goblins, "they *did* call me a child."
* * * * *

After wandering around the castle grounds for a good half hour Cassandra found the stables. A young elfin man showed her inside.

Her first glance at the horse confirmed her fears. This was a ladies mount all right. The docile gray mare stared back at Cassandra with wide eyes. She patted the horse's neck and smiled gently. "I'm sorry my lady, but I'm afraid you're not quite the horse for me."

As if understanding her, the horse tossed her mane and nudged Cassandra out of the stall.

Cassandra smiled and walked over to the stall. Yes there was definitely fire in the eyes of this horse, but there was also a strong amount of discipline. She found herself under the same scrutiny from the stallion.

An understanding passed between their eyes as both passed the test. Cassandra turned to the boy and ordered him to saddle the horse.

"May scold himself for choosing such an unsuitable horse." She saw the look of fear on the man's face and shook her head. "I assure you in no way will you be blamed for this. Truly, he need not even know this if you wish."

This elicited a smirk from him, for he knew as well as Cassandra that Jareth could know anything he chose to. "Enjoy yourself my lady, and may I tell you to be careful."

Jareth put the book down on the shelf and sighed. He wasn't looking forward to this party. One night, that was all he had to worry about. Then things would all go back to normal.

He snorted. Normal. Nothing was normal now, not since that girl showed up. He may have gotten used to another person in the castle, but Jareth was sure he'd never get used to *her*.

Standing up he stretched languidly. Casually he made his way across the library to a window, taking a moment to glance down at the countryside below.

He spotted a lone figure in the distance riding on horseback. The figure was heading quickly towards the cliffs by the ocean. Frowning slightly he tried to make out the identity of the rider.

Jareth stormed out of the room, knowing only too well who would be riding Dante out to the shore. Only one person here would do something as featherbrained as that.

Cassandra threw her head back and let the wind play with her hair. The horse's strong muscles rippled beneath her legs, and it was a moment before she realized just how close she was to the cliffs. Careful not to startle him, she slowly reined the horse in, bringing him from the gallop he flew at to a languid trot. She rode along the edge of the cliffs, gazing out at the ocean below.

Her attunement had always been with water, and now being so close to the waves crashing felt like a homecoming to Cassandra. She inhaled the crisp air tinged with saltwater spray. Gazing across the water she sighed. The ocean's color matched the skies deep blue, almost gray color. The foam at the surf contrasted with the sand on the beach, a shiny black sand. Cassandra vaguely remembered learning sometime ago about beaches where volcanic rock had been found.

Stephan watched his brother ride out on Truth and smiled. There had to be a reason he wasn't taking his own horse. Perhaps because it had been taken already?

He laughed abruptly, causing several goblins alarm. The minx! She had not only gone riding with a horse Jareth hadn't assigned to her, she had taken the King's own.

He couldn't wait to see what happened next. Ah yes, Jareth's fury was not to be reckoned with under any circumstances. Stephan almost worried a bit for the girl's safety. This time she may have taken things a bit too far.

Suddenly he remembered her fierce stormy eyes. No, she would hold her own. He was sure of that.

Cassandra saw the rider come closer, and felt the stallions alarm. Whoever this rider was she was growing wary of his fast approach. She began to allow the horse to pick up speed, running parallel with the ocean. Soon she found a path down to the shore itself. She urged the stallion down the wide path onto the seashore. Once down she looked back up to see if the rider had followed.

She let the reins out, and the black Arabian took off, galloping down the length of the beach. Cassandra held on, fear filling her heart though she wasn't sure why. Wondering why the horse was as scared she looked up. They were approaching a large number of rocks… too large to traverse over. They would have to stop. At the same time Cassandra noticed something else. The horse was feeding off of her own fear. Every time she thought something terrible it would tense up and run faster. Somehow she had become connected with the beast, sharing emotions.

She tried to calm herself down, and in doing so, the horse slowed. Finally he came to a stop and turned around. Cassandra nearly jumped. She felt the same fear again, and the horse skirted to the right a bit.

He saw Cassandra watching him, both herself and Dante perfectly still. She was afraid, and Jareth felt a sliver of satisfaction creep through him.

He knew the power within Dante, even he had experienced trouble with the temperamental horse. Cassandra didn't know the danger she put herself in by riding that beast.

Cassandra slowed her breathing and hardened her expression as Jareth neared. Let him serve her a lecture, she didn't care. Hadn't she already proven she was far more than capable to ride this horse. It was *his* fault after all, for giving her such an unsuitable mount. She watched him stonily as he came within speaking distance.

Jareth reared his horse beside her and as it settled down he gave her a cold look.

Cassandra winced slightly. *Figures, I *would* go and pick his horse* She shook her head though and looked right back at him.

"Your horse? I'm very sorry for that but really, you had left for me such a hack and I …"

"Not another word. You are going to get off of that horse right now and we are going back to the castle."

Her eyes flashed dark fire. "I most certainly will not. I rode this horse out here, and I can easily ride it back."

Jareth could hardly believe she was telling him no. "Do as I say Cassandra, don't make this hard on yourself."

"Hard on myself? I had no problems until you came along. If you would be so kind as to leave me now,"

Their eyes met, Cassandra ablaze with deepening fury. He was treating her like a silly child who didn't know a damn thing about *anything* at all. She wasn't going to stand for it any longer.

His temper got the better of him. "You'll get down off that damned horse if I have to pull you off myself!"

"You will not, so just stop talking about it." She felt Dante stir beneath her, but paid it no heed.

"The minute we get back to the castle, you are going to your chambers and you are *staying* there until I deem otherwise."

"I am *not* a child! You have *no* right to order me around as if I were!" She screamed out and pushed his hand away as he reached for her. Her anger was so great that Dante felt it as well, and began to gallop off. Cassandra wasn't holding on to the reins and flew backwards off of the horse. Her only thought before she hit the ground however was how this too was Jareth's fault, and she would never forgive him.

Stephan broke the seal on another acceptance letter and smiled. It seemed so far most of the Fey would be present at the ball. That out to impress the Lady Cassandra. She would certainly find them to be much more interesting than Jareth's guests.

Glancing down once more at the stack of papers Stephan spied a cream parchment sealed with deep red wax. He smiled as he lifted the letter. This was just the reply he was looking forward to.

A sound outside caused him to look up. In the hallway, voices cried out and Stephan could hear his brother barking out orders. Controlling a smile he hurried out into the corridor to see just what the commotion was about.

The scene that met his eyes was not one he expected., and it caused him to stop dead in his tracks. With a pale face Stephan watched his brother walking towards him, carrying a limp Cassandra in his arms.

Jareth looked worse than Stephan had ever seen him, his hair blown out of place, his clothes torn and in places covered in blood. He moved with a glossy stare in his eyes, his gaze focused on some far off place.

"I saved her life Stephan. Now would you run and get that damned maid of hers? I'm taking her to her room, how quickly can you get a doctor here?"

Stephan didn't answer, but took off running for the throne room, his mind focused on a crystal ball and nothing else.

Dodging goblins he opened the doors tot he throneroom and walked straight for a large crystal ball held aloft by a pillar, surrounded by the figure of a dragon. He concentrated silently on the ball and suddenly began to cloud over, swirling colors filling the ball, glowing strongly for a moment then fading, revealing an old man with bright green eyes and dusty gray hair.

"Your majesty." The voice came across the distance clearly, with only a hint of static.

"I need you here, as soon as possible. We have a young lady who has been badly hurt."

Stephan shook his head sadly. "Talius we *need* you here, she may die otherwise."

Stephan sighed deeply and turned away from the crystal, his heart heavy. His mind raced with concern not only for Cassandra, but also begrudgingly for Jareth.

Jareth gently laid Cassandra down on her bed, careful not to touch the gash on her head. He pressed the ripped part of his shirt down a bit more on the wound. Crysabelle came in carrying a large basin of steaming water, a goblin behind her carried in rags.

He watched as she wrung out a rag, and lifted it to Cassandra's forehead. Slowly she wiped up the blood around a gash, then took another rag and pressed it on the gash, attempting to stop the blood. Jareth wondered how much blood she had lost so far, and how much more she could afford to lose. She may never age, but she could be killed, they were all still mortal in that manner.

He almost smiled as he realized what the girl was doing. At a time like this she was worried about propriety. Jareth nodded and walked out of the room, closing the door softly behind himself.

The goblin king strode down the hallway passing his brother on the way out of the east wing.

Silence descended, thickening the air between the two men. Jareth shook his head.

"I didn't do anything to her if that's what your brain is conjuring. Dante threw her Stephan, she fell off the horse." He was quiet for a moment, as Stephan decided whether or not to believe this story. Jareth closed his eyes for a brief second, then bestowed his brother with a ice cold gaze.

"She brought it upon herself Stephan, I truly am not responsible for what happened. If she hadn't taken Dante out there in the first place none of this would have happened."

Stephan was silent for a long moment, clearly debating what his brother had said. Then he slowly nodded, deciding for the moment that Jareth was telling the truth. He gave his brother a sad look as he saw the pain in Jareth's eyes.

"Of course we'll get to her in time if you two young fools don't stop mooning over the whole thing and tell me where she is. I can't help the poor thing if I can't see her." The old man scowled at them both. Jareth grabbed a goblin that was passing them down the hallway.

Talius began to walk off, then noticed where he was and turned back around to address Jareth. "The East wing eh?"

"I swear when will I hear the end of this madness? The days are long gone from the time of Lady Natalie. I can't bear to hear one more word spoken about that woman!"

Stephan laughed. "That's the problem with being immortal dear brother, one gets so bored after a millennium or so one has nothing left to do but gossip. That, I think, is my only complaint about the Fey."

They both turned and walked into the music parlor. Jareth looked about, his eyes falling on the piano Cassandra had played at just days before. Would she play again? He banished the thought from his mind. "The strangest thing is we posses all the magics of the lands. OF *Both* the lands."

"I wonder if Gwenthya knew about this when she turned the Goblin kingdom over to me."

"I would say she would have to. Now here's something strange. How she found us, then decided to become mortal." He walked across the room and sat down on a chaise lounge. "I suppose she's dead now. How unpleasant. To die by choice."

Jareth walked over to the window and stood for a moment in silence. When he spoke, it was for only a brief moment, and even then so quiet Stephan could hardly make out his words.

Talius found Jareth alone in the music room running a back gloved hand along the ivory keys of a baby grand piano.

"Hello my boy." As the king looked up Talius smiled. "To have seen what I've seen, see what I see. Right?" Chuckling he made his way over to where the king sat. "Jareth my son, she is not hurt badly. I must say you saved her life. There was minimal bleeding and a few bruised areas, but other than that, no broken bones, no lasting scars. She's drifting in and out of consciousness now, she regained it clearly for the first time as I was finishing the patching of her wound."

Jareth looked up with a light in his eyes Talius knew to be relief. "She'll live then."

The man laughed. "Yes boy, she will live. Excellent health even in a few days. She may not have regained total consciousness yet and I do want her in bed for a few days at least." HE shook his head. "She will be fine however for the ball, you can reassure your brother of that."

Talius was quiet for a moment, then smiled. "She asked for her horse. Although she *said* Dante, which I know to be the King's own. I can imagine how all this happened. Jareth…"

He shook his head. "Actually I wanted to tell you to let her *continue* to ride him, at least until we can find her a suitable horse of the Fey." He puffed up with pride as Jareth stared at him unbelievingly. "She spoke to me of a bond with the horse. The same sort of bond you feel Jareth. She said they shared emotions."

Sudden realization dawned on Jareth. That was why Dante had reared. The horse had felt her anger and fear, and responded to it as it became his own.

Good heavens. He was in the wrong then, not only was she capable of riding Dante, but she was perfect for a horse of the fey like himself. He lost himself in thought as Talius silently left the room.
* * * * *

The old man closed the door and shook his head. Let the lad think things over for now. That the horse had accepted her put quite a few possibilities in Jareth's corner now, and to top it off he was still dealing with guilt and anger. It would pass, but Talius didn't have the time to stay with him. Jareth would feel better when he saw her, but first Talius needed to talk to her a bit, and give her some teas to drink so she'd be better for the ball.

He had decided he would like this girl, she had the heart, and the temper, to match either brother. Her strong will would probably keep her away from either one, and Talius saw quite interesting times to follow for the castle, and for its inhabitants.

Shaking his head he walked back to the girl's room. When the king had asked him if she had spoken, he told her what she said. He didn't however, tell him the *first* word that had issued from her lips.

Cassandra tossed in her sleep, consumed once again by dreams of the Labyrinth. She was in the maze itself again, this time just before the gate of the Weavers. The silver vines nearly blinded her in the sunlight. As she searched for the Gate Cassandra saw strange little creatures pass by her. They looked to be the size of the goblins, but seemed more elfin in nature. They had wings, but Cassandra was sure they weren't the fairies she saw before the gates to the Labyrinth. Following a pink one around countless turns Cassandra came to a large black door.

Suddenly out of the shadows a figure stepped beside her. She was a woman, dressed regally in a deep ruby gown. Her black hair fell across her shoulders, and a silver snake was wrapped around her neck. The red jewels in its eyes winked back at Cassandra. The woman didn't speak, but gave Cassandra a cold stare.

"What do you want?" Her voice in the dream was distorted, and hardly sounded like her own.

The woman smiled, her perfectly even teeth white and deadly. "There were others before you my dear, none have been happy. There is only room for one in his life, and I am that one."

She just laughed and grabbed Cassandra's chin. "Such a pretty little thing too. He was right I suppose, you truly *are* no match for me."

"I shall be seeing you soon little girl, make no doubt about that." The woman stepped back into the shadows once more, and disappeared from view.

Cassandra stood there for a moment, speechless, then suddenly realized the walls around her were closing in, and there was no exit. She tried to climb up, but there were no footholds. She fell back and watched as the walls closed in on her, squeezing her into a ball. Coming a bit closer.

Cassandra twisted in her bed, sweat rolling off of her body. A steady hand wiped it off of her brow and sighed. She opened her eyes to see the same old man that had dressed her cut, how long ago was it? It only seemed like minutes, but could have been days.

He smiled gently. "My name is Talius, I'm a doctor. You hit your head pretty hard there my dear, but I must say you were lucky. It could have been a lot worse if Jareth hadn't gotten you here safely."

Cassandra shook her head, still troubled by the dream. "No, no, that's all right."

Cassandra retold the dream to the man as he sat in silence, occasionally nodding.

He sat for a moment, then shook his head sadly. "The woman you spoke with. I know her well. Her name is Natalie. She came here many years ago, to save her young sister. Jareth fell in love with her beauty, but never knew the pain behind the beautiful brown eyes." He sat back and gazed at Cassandra sadly. "It seems my dear you have made quite an enemy here."

"But how does she even know who I am?" Cassandra tried to sit up but the pain was too great. Her mind was beginning to cloud over again and she felt her eyes grow heavy. "What does she care about me?"

"I'm not sure my dear, but I wouldn't worry about it, Natalie hasn't been here for nearly a hundred years."

Talius frowned deeply as the young woman drifted back off to sleep. Something was not right here. Yes, she was beginning to exhibit powers, but why connect with Natalie. He shook his head again, no, Natalie connected with *her*, and it wasn't a friendly meeting. More like an open threat. Disturbed he stood up to find Jareth, he would have to tell him about this. No. Perhaps he shouldn't tell him. Who knows what he might do if he found out Natalie could be after Cassandra. He walked out of the room shaking his head. No, better just to stay quiet for now.

Once again Talius passed the music room and found Jareth softly playing the piano. "Your majesty?"

"She's sleeping right now, but I need to run a few errands and get some teas for her. Can you watch the young thing for awhile?"

Talius smiled and nodded. "Good, I should be back soon, so you won't be troubled for long." He left the room and walked quickly down the hallway. Jareth walked out the door himself after a moment, heading in the direction of Cassandra's room.
* * * * *

Jareth slowly opened the door as not to wake the sleeping girl. Crysabelle looked up from a pile of sheets as he walked in. She curtsied slightly and picked up the sheets, walking out of the room and shutting the door behind her. Jareth took a moment and watched Cassandra's sleeping face.

She looked peaceful in her sleep, no impish smile, no furrowed brows of anger. He smiled and sat down in a chair beside her bed. She was indeed beautiful, in a striking sort of way. Her dark auburn hair could be called red in candlelight, but in the sunlight like this it was almost brown. Her skin was smooth and her lashes long. A small smile tugged at her lips as she slept. Jareth wondered what she dreamt of.

He reached out and brushed a strand of her hair from her forehead. She shifted positions, but didn't wake. Jareth leaned back in his chair and closed his eyes. They were all lucky Cassandra had survived the fall. If she hadn't… well he didn't want to think about that right now. She wasn't dead, she wasn't going to die, and that was it. He smiled to himself. She certainly had made his life interesting.

Opening his eyes once more he found her wide awake and staring at him with slanted eyes. He couldn't help but smile as he braced himself for her outburst.

Jareth shook his head. "Oh, so now you're going to whine and blame me for all your troubles?"

He frowned. "*I* nearly got you killed? Need I remind you it was you yourself who ran off with *my* horse."

Jareth smiled slightly. "Oh I assure you my Lady Cassandra, I would never underestimate you. I wouldn't *dream* of it."

"Yes, I suppose I am." Jareth was beginning to enjoy himself, this little one still acted like a hellcat even when she had just made a brief brush with death. "You see Cassandra…"

"Oh excuse me. *Lady* Cassandra, you just so totally amuse me. I truly am fascinated by you."

Cassandra noticed the slight spark in his blue eyes, and interpreted it as sarcasm. "So now I'm fascinating am I?" Cassandra's eyes narrowed and she took a shot in the dark. "Am I just as fascinating as Lady Natalie was?"

Cassandra's eyes raised. Well, she had certainly hit home on that mark. "No one told me."

"Well nice to see the patient is awake." Stephan walked into the room carrying a bunch of wildflowers. "I was out for a walk and decided to pick these up for you my lady."

Jareth looked over at his brother, then frowned and turned back to Cassandra. "You said it was she herself who spoke to you?"

Stephan walked over to the bed. "Who is this we're speaking of? Come Jareth, don't hold us in suspense." His dark eyes shone with something Cassandra had seen before. She frowned.

"Oh Stephan, those flowers are gorgeous." She smiled brightly and waved Jareth out of the way. "Your brother and I were just talking about Crysabelle and her silly little habits." Cassandra tried to catch Jareth's eye but he had turned away from her. She shook her head. No way of telling him now.

Stephan walked over and picked up the book of sonnets lying on the bed. "Ah, Shakespeare. I do so love these." He opened the book and began to read. "Doubt that the stars are fire; Doubt that the sun doth move; Doubt truth to be a liar; But never doubt I love."

Cassandra laughed. "Stephan, that's not a sonnet, it's from Hamlet." She won a suprised look from Stephan and a look of appreciation from Jareth. She shrugged. "I've always loved his work. Not to mention Hamlet being my favorite tragedy."

She smiled. "Perhaps it is, but then I seem to be full of contradictions." She felt Jareth's gaze on her but didn't meet his eyes. "Would you care to read some my Lord Stephan?"

Jareth moved to the edge of the room and left without a sound. Cassandra controlled a sigh. She would have to speak to him later, if she ever got the chance. In the meantime however, she had Stephan to deal with, who was now in the middle of a sonnet Cassandra knew to be written about time and death, but he seemed to be reading it as if it were a love poem. She giggled slightly. Stephan could certainly be entertaining.

Cassandra couldn't sleep. Every time she closed her eyes another haunting image of that Natalie woman would enter her mind. She tossed a bit in her bed, then opened her eyes.

Stephan had disappeared, the sky outside had darkened to a deep blue black color. As her eyes adjusted to the light she surveyed her room. There had to be a clock around somewhere. Not seeing one she glanced out a large window. The moon was high, it couldn't be too late.

Cassandra slowly sat up. Her head still hurt but not as bad as it had earlier. Swinging her legs over the side of the bed she sighed contentedly. It was good to know her legs still moved. She stretched like a cat for a moment, ignoring the slight pain going through her body and instead basked in the warm feeling of movement.

Standing up became quite a chore, as her body was not accustomed to moving. She found small white slippers and grabbed her robe which had been lying on a chair. Tying the ribbon belt around her waist Cassandra smiled. All she needed now was some baby powder and she'd make the perfect ghost.

The thick silence in the hallway outside her room wrapped around Cassandra like a blanket, aiding to her disguise by enveloping her in nothingness. Smiling lightly and picking up her pace Cassandra passed Khris and Handel sleeping. With an impish grin Cassandra tapped Handel's shoulder.

The goblin sprung to life, ready for battle. Then he saw Cassandra and nearly shrieked. She hushed him while controlling a smile. Perhaps she didn't need that powder after all.

His eyes were wide, but he relaxed visibly as he recognized her. "Of course my lady Cassandra. Is there trouble?"

She took a deep breath. "No, there's no trouble." After a second's hesitations she blurted out the rest. "I need to find Jareth.

She thanked him and ignored his requests for her to go back to her chambers. She needed to talk to him *now* and that was the end of it. Turning she set off down the hallway, bound for the west wing.

Cassandra felt fairly suprised no guards were patrolling the west wing. She shook her head after a moment, and bitterly smiled. Of course there wouldn't be anyone patrolling his hallways. No one in their right mind would trespass on the king's quarters.

She came to a sudden halt and looked down at herself. *So what the hell am _I_ doing here?* Silently and slowly Cassandra made her way down the grand hallway, searching for signs of life. Turning a corner she spied a warm yellow glow spilling out from a half closed door.

A heartbeat and a prayer later the light went dark. Cassandra jumped back as a figure moved out of the room, carrying a candle and a book. She recognized the king immediately. After a moment of hesitation she walked towards him.

Cassandra shrunk back, the circle of light just missing her. She took a deep breath and calmed her nerves. *You had to know Cassie, don't back out now…*

She stepped forward and spoke in a calm voice. "It's me Jareth. I need to talk to you."

He stood rigid, his eyes darkened and focused on Cassandra with serious reflection. She felt every muscle in her body tense as she awaited his outburst.
* * * * *

Cassandra took a deep breath and stared at Jareth. Fear engulfed her. He stood in a dark silence, she felt as if they stood in the eye of a hurricane. All was calm for the moment, but as soon as the eye passed, Jareth took a step towards her and spoke in a low voice.

"So you came to me?" He raised one eyebrow, taking another step towards her. "What do you want Cassandra, for me to sing you a lullaby?"

She looked up. He stood directly in front of her now, and he gazed down at her with a hint of humor in his eyes. She felt trapped, ensnared by his frosty blue stare.

"Ah yes, Natalie." His voice remained light but Cassandra noticed his body tense. "We'll talk about this somewhere other than a dark hallway."

Cassandra followed Jareth back into the study where a fire still burned. He staled over to a large armchair, motioning for Cassandra to sit in one beside him.

She lowered herself gently onto the chair, her gaze turned on the golden red flames leaping before her. Without turning to look at the king Cassandra began to speak.

"I saw her in a dream, or at least something like a dream…" She relayed her whole encounter to Jareth slowly, leaving out no detail. Only when she finished did she dare turn to Jareth.

He watched her intently, his strange eyes fathomless. When he spoke, it held a dismissive note.

Cassandra turned and fixed a cold stare one him. "Your majesty if I know absolutely *anything* it's that I wasn't dreaming."

"Well what do you want me to say Cassandra?" Fatigue crept into his voice. "If that was indeed Natalie, I can't do anything about it." At Cassandra's inquisitive gaze he shook his head. "She hasn't set foot in this kingdom for ages, I wouldn't worry about her."

Jareth turned to actually take a look at his late night visitor. He forced himself not to smile at Cassandra's appearance.

Her hair flowed in every direction, the ribbon holding it back had fallen out, allowing a few strands to fall in front of her eyes. Those stormy eyes of hers. The white robe she wore wasn't tied correctly, obviously put on in haste. He frowned. She must be very upset by Natalie's visitation. IT was true though, he could do nothing for her.

Cassandra felt his eyes on her and had a hard time sitting still. Why was she suddenly so nervous? Try as she might, there was no way she could turn her head to him and meet his gaze.

When he spoke her name it was nearly a whisper. Suprised, Cassandra turned to face the Goblin King, who stood right before her chair.

His eyes were dark, their color undefined. He looked down at her with an expression Cassandra couldn't quite place but which sent chills running through her. His lips parted for a moment as if to say something. But he stopped himself and quickly looked away.

When he turned to her once again the expression was gone, replaced by the familiar cold stare.

"You should go back to your room, get some rest. You nee it. I assume you know your way back?"

"Wait." Jareth walked over to her and held out a crystal. "This should help you find your way back."

The crystal began to glow when Cassandra touched it. She looked up at him, expecting him to say something else, but he just turned away.

As Cassandra turned back into the hallway she heard him say softly. "I'm sorry."

She turned the corner and stopped, hiding the crystal in the folds of her robe. Softly Jareth said something else, something that haunted Cassandra the rest of the night.

Crysabelle pulled the corset's strings a little tighter. She watched with a half smile as Cassandra made a disgusted face.

Cassandra sighed as the satin garment was placed over her head. Crysabelle tied the dress in place then picked up the main dress. "Okay, now we have to figure out of to get *this* thing over you." She thought, her tongue protruding slightly from her lips. Cassandra giggled at the picture the girl made.

Crysabelle shook her head. "I have a better idea. Let's do your hair first."
* * * * *

Jareth stood silently, watching the guests arrive from all around. The carriages of the fey were the most obvious, made out of things other than metal. He closed his eyes for a moment, reflecting on the number of years since the castle has an event such as this. As hard as he tried to convince himself otherwise he truly missed the company. There were some things even magic couldn't provide for you.

Jareth turned away from the window and nodded to the goblin. He took one last look at himself in the mirror. Everything seemed in order. His hair stayed back nicely due to the small velvet ribbon holding it in place, his clothing gleamed, crisp white shirt under midnight blue jacket and pants. He straightened the crystal pin at his neck ( the only sign of royalty he wore) and walked out of his chambers.

Stephan had somehow convinced him to escort the girl to his party. Jareth shook his head. His brother was up to something, he just needed a little more time to figure out *what*. He turned past her guards and walked down the east wing. Passing paintings on the walls he cringed. There were things here that would always remind him of her, remind him of such innocence that once walked these hallways. Even Lady Natalie couldn't mar the image he held of Sarah.

There were times he would go back, actually relive the day she had returned, the day he knew he loved her. The same day she confessed her love for him. The day she said goodbye.

*All in a single day.* Jareth felt the familiar tug on his emotions and erased the picture of her from his mind. Now wasn't the time for feelings like this. Somehow he knew Cassandra would be able to tell if he was upset, and he didn't want her to see him as anything other than a king.

He came to her chambers a few seconds later and knocked on the door. Her maid opened it and ushered him in. "She'll be out in just a moment your majesty."

Jareth stood, glancing around the room, looking anywhere but the area he knew she would appear in.

"Ahem." He shook his head and looked up. Cassandra stood before him, a slight smile on her face. "I'm sorry if I kept you waiting."

Cassandra nodded and placed her gloved hand on his arm. They walked out of the room without another word and headed down the hallway.
* * * * *

Stephan glanced up at the clock. Where the devil *was* she? He wanted her to see them enter together, to get the full effect.

A silky voice rose from the shadows. "I'm right here. I'm certainly not late am I?"

While they walked down the hallway Jareth cast glances in Cassandra's direction, taking in her appearance.

She wore a dress of different shades of blue and green, small ribbons adorning the dress where it split in the front, revealing the underskirt beneath. The back of the dress plunged nearly to her waist, a filmy material of blue and white along the edges. The same material came around to the front and covered her chest. She reminded him of the sea, waves and foam all in one.

Cassandra's hair had been partially piled on top of her head, with a few silver strands weaved among it's dark fire. Some locks escaped, resting softly on her bare shoulders. On her head she wore a silver diadem, it's crescent moon giving her an otherworldly allure.

She looked, in a word, magical, and Jareth found himself nervous to be standing beside her. It passed quickly however, and soon they found themselves standing before the large doors leading to the ballroom.

The two goblins opened the large doors and announced the two humans behind them.

As the doors opened Cassandra held her breath. The light flooded out, embracing her in its warm glow. As her eyes adjusted she nearly squeaked. The ballroom was *full* of people. Their costumes all different shades of the rainbow, some striking, others subtle. Chandeliers hung from the ceiling, glittery crystals dangling above their heads. Every person had a different outfit, a different creation. The rooms seemed to house a sea of faces.

She felt Jareth stop with her, then felt him squeeze her shoulder. The uncommon gesture from him comforted Cassandra, and she mentally shook herself free from her paralysis. Stepping forward with Jareth she smiled. There was nothing to be worried about, she convinced herself. Nothing could go wrong with the king by her side.

Cassandra immediately spotted Stephan making his way across the room, his appearance in every way attractive. She even noticed Jareth didn't tense beside her, which was a good sign for both brothers. Instead, he smiled as Stephan approached.

"You doubted me?" The man smiled. "A fitting present for my brother." A small group of musicians began a waltz. Stephan turned to Cassandra and smiled. "The first dance my lady?"

She almost looked to Jareth for permission but stopped herself. Nodding to him and bowing to Jareth she allowed Stephan to take her out to the center of the floor.

The dance came easily to her, although she had no idea *how* to dance the waltz.

The sensation of spinning gave Cassandra a giddy feeling, turning he head she could see all the others dancing, their clothing blending into a rainbow of colors. She found herself searching for Jareth amongst them.

He stood within a small crowd of admirers, but his gaze looked elsewhere, his face an expression of pure hatred. For a moment Cassandra thought he was looking directly at *her*. A moment later though she realized he looked at something beyond her. Cassandra's gaze followed his and she nearly tripped over her own feet when she saw where he looked.

Stephan looked down at her, concern radiating from his features. "Something wrong my lady?"

Cassandra looked back but she had already disappeared, a quick survey of the room convinced her that Jareth had vanished as well.

The dance ended, but before she could go looking for them a group of Elven lords surrounded her, each vying for a dance. Mentally Cassandra sighed. She wasn't going to be able to look for them now.

Smiling she turned to one of the men and held out her hand. He bowed over it and they began to dance.

Jareth turned from the mantle and cast a glance at the woman standing across the room.

She smiled slowly, seductively. "Why Jareth, I only came to collect what is rightfully mine."

A low chuckle escaped her throat. "Very well Jareth. Although," she stepped close to him, "I would love to help you celebrate your birthday."

"My dear, you have no other choice. Tomorrow, when I leave, she's coming with me." She smiled at Jareth, then began walking out the door. At the threshold she turned and fixed her eyes on the king.

Cassandra stood beside two ladies, trying to grasp exactly what they were talking about.

The younger of the two turned to Cassandra. "What is the human world like? I've heard such fascinating tales from Puck and others."

"Yes, do tell us about the mortal world. What is the music like there? Are the flowers as sweet?"

Cassandra shook her head and smiled. "My lady, I've never smelled the flowers in the kingdom of the Fey, but I have a feeling the flowers from my home could never compare to yours." This comment seemed to satisfy their curiosity, and Cassandra was glad. She had no idea how she would explain heavy metal and rap to the two women.

She felt Jareth enter the room even before she saw him. The whole atmosphere of the room changed when he walked into it.

The ladies bowed as he approached and Cassandra turned to face him. He smiled, but his eyes seemed weary somehow. "Excuse me ladies, but I must beg a dance of the Lady Cassandra."

She walked onto the floor with him without a word spoken. He silently held out his hand to her, and after a moment she placed hers in it. Drawing her close he led her into the dance. As they whirled around she looked up into his eyes. Captured by his gaze she smiled.

He returned the smile lightly. "I'm greatly pleased to see you well enough to dance here tonight. It's a rare event something like this happens here."

"Which just makes it all the more special. If you had dances every day you wouldn't look forward to them at all."

"Never." His look of mock horror caused Cassandra to realize there was another side to this man, one she may never see save for these brief moments.

"I was well enough the day after the accident, but Talius insisted I stay in bed. I can't wait to ride again." She added as an afterthought.

"Yes, I know." He looked down at her, a strange sense of pride filling his body. She would never give up, not as long as she could fight. He sighed and continued dancing in silence. *There has to be something…. Something I can do…*

Cassandra looked around the room then back up to his face. With a small smile on her face she spoke shyly. "Happy birthday your majesty."

The words, spoken so innocently nearly caused Jareth to stumble. He stopped dancing, stopped in the middle of a turn, jarring Cassandra. She felt his arms tighten around her.

"We need to talk." He took hold of her arm and led her off the floor, through large veranda doors onto the balcony. A goblin closed the door behind them, leaving the two standing in a moonlit silence. Cassandra turned to Jareth, who gripped the edge of the stone balcony with an unnerving intensity.

She sighed, gazing up at the moon. It shone full in the dark sky, a perfect milky crystal sphere. Turning she placed a hand on Jareth's arm. Amazingly he didn't pull back as she half expected him to.

*Well, why am I not suprised?* She shook her head, shrugged her shoulders and brought her arms to her side. "So what does she want from you?"

"What?" She felt the world fall down around her. The moon didn't seem so beautiful anymore, it seemed dead, a cold rock in the black sky.

Jareth turned slowly away from her. "Years ago Natalie entered my kingdom, searching for the sibling she wished away. I was strangely attracted to her, and found myself wanting her to stay with me. I asked her and she agreed. That was my first mistake."

Cassandra shook her head, impatient. "Yes, but what does this have to do with me?"

"The whole situation got to a point where I couldn't function with a malicious person like her in my kingdom. I promised her anything that was in my possession as long as she left." He looked back up at the moon. "She never collected."

"Technically I do," He ignored Cassandra's unladylike snort and continued. "For the fifty years you must stay here you belong to me."

"I don't know what to tell you Cassandra. I know 'I'm sorry' isn't going to help."

"You'd have to prove somehow that you were more than human, to prove you were somehow magical. Where she lives nothing with a trace of magic may enter."

"There is a world of difference between sympathy to magic and true magic." He strode over to her and placed a hand on her shoulder. "I'm sorry Cassandra."

She looked up at him, a tear glistening in her eye. Taking a step away from him she fixed Jareth with a cold stare.

A pair of dark eyes watched Cassandra run across the ballroom and out the main doors. They sparkled with glee.
* * * * *

Cassandra burst into her room and flung herself onto the bed. The tears still wouldn't fall, her anger and frustration holding them back. She let out her emotions on a pillow instead, beating it with clenched fists until feathers flew all around her.

Cassandra looked up through the blizzard of feathers to see the old man Talius standing by her bed. Embarrassed she blew a feather out of her eyes and faced him.

"Get into something more comfortable. I think you and I have a long night ahead of us."
* * * * *

Stephan stormed into the library where Natalie stood, holding a small book. "What the *Hell* were you thinking?"

Stephan wavered, then snatched the book from her, throwing it across the room. "I told you to turn her attention away from Jareth and to me, *not* to take her away from *all* of us."

"But," she pouted "I didn't realize how *useful* she could be. She will do so well working for me."

Natalie burst out laughing. "You and your brother are so very much alike, did you know that?"

Stephan stared at her, his green eyes dark with malice. "In certain things I'm proud to be like my brother."

She ignored him and picked up another book. "You both realize your mistakes too late."

"Oh no Stephan, but I do. If I don't take the girl, who *knows* what could happen."

"It doesn't matter, I realize that. If she doesn't want to come with me, *fine*, but I'd rather die than see her serve you."

"Such brave words Stephan, but brave words come from those who know they have no hope of winning." She handed him the book. "I'm doing you a favor though. Keeping her here would cause nothing but chaos."

"Yes. So I'm doing you a favor. It is, after all, what you asked for." She began to walk out. Stephan reached out and grabbed her arm tightly, causing her to wince.

"Know this Natalie, I may have brought you here, and I may have asked you to turn her attentions away from Jareth, but I *never* told you to do this, the guilt for that falls on your head, and your head alone."

She pulled her arm away and stalked out the door. He turned and looked at the book he held in his hand. In spidery gold the title "Romeo and Juliet" stared back at him. Disgusted he threw it into the fire and watched as the flames consumed the leather cover.

Cassandra opened her eyes and shook her head. "I'm sorry Talius." She looked down at the feather sitting still on her bed. Talius had asked her to move it, one of the many "magical" exercises her had been putting her through. So far she had failed every last one of them.

"That's allright, let's try something else." The old man gave Cassandra an encouraging smile, but she shook her head once more.

"Let's just face it, there isn't a scrap of magic in me." She stood up and stretched her legs. Dressed in a comfortable green tunic over black riding pants she walked over to a window. "It's nearly dawn anyway."

He shook his head. "I'm afraid it doesn't work that was. What magic you do have is dormant within you, and for our intents and purposes that's as good as no magic at all."

Cassandra walked around the room, running absent fingers over the treasures she had just recently become accustomed to. Soon she came to the box which held her mother's belongings.

Talius watched the girl go through he box with sad eyes, taking out each piece and examining it before moving to the next. His eyes widened as she pulled out a large leather book.

"I was going to say 'shadows' but whatever." She smiled as her comment went unheeded. Eagerly Talius flipped through the pages, mumbling to himself.

Cassandra paid him no attention and reached into the bottom of the box for the crystal she knew would be there. Picking it up she marveled once more at its smooth curves and the thin veins of blue twisting within it. A wave of sadness washed over her as she remembered not only the blue eyes of the king, but also the dark blue eyes of her mother.

She felt the first tear fall down her cheek, run across her face, then fall, landing on the crystal.

Almost immediately Cassandra felt it. The crystal came *alive* beneath her hand. Gazing intently at it she could almost see the veins moving, and after a moment it began to glow a clear blue. She turned to Talius but her was still lost in the book.

"It says here that any one born of the First line may call upon the powers of the Crystal at any time." He sighed and closed the book. "That must be it then, that's what I'm sensing within you." He sighed again. "It's a shame we don't have the Crystal."

"Hmm?" He turned around, and promptly dropped the large book on his left foot. This caused him minor pain, which he ignored opting to fix his attention on Cassandra with a smile.

"Just lovely my dear. Now would you mind coming down from the ceiling?"
* * * * *

Jareth stood at his window, watching the morning dawn on his labyrinth. He hadn't slept all night, nor had he been able to seek out Cassandra. Try as he might, he couldn't think of a thing to say to her. Stephan had been nowhere in sight, and Jareth thought it was probably for the best. He knew, he always knew. It was just a second sense the two brothers shared.

Sure, he knew Stephan wanted Cassandra away from Jareth. Stephan probably also knew Jareth wasn't about to give her up, albeit for quite different reasons. One was only given so many chances in a lifetime, it was never good to throw one away. He turned away from the window and walked across the room. Picking up a small book he sighed.

Sarah's journal, her own portrayal of the Labyrinth. Jareth had read the book numerous times since Cassandra found it. He opened the book once more and flipped through the pages.

"I need your advice Sarah. How long has it been now, ten, twenty years?" He sighed and put the book back down. "It seems like forever. I've failed again, I've failed the very one who could have saved me." With a squint of his eyes he turned back to the window. "You sent her to me didn't you? You did that for me." He said the last sentence with an air of certainty.

Two kings sat in a throneroom, each wearing a different expression of fear. One, his eyes dark green showing his concern openly, wore it on his sleeve. Fidgeting, the man switched positions numerous times, glancing apprehensively at the doorway.

The other man, equally fearful, didn't show his emotions clearly. Sitting still and calm on his throne he watched the doorway with intense blue eyes. The eyes were what gave him away.

Sighing Cassandra lowered the crystal, its picture clouding over and eventually disappearing. She hoped all of this would work. Turning she addressed Talius.

"Because my child, if she cannot have you, she cannot have anything else. Once she named her price to Jareth, the bargain was dissolved. It will completely erase itself after this is over with."

"Crysabelle will be there holding your crystal. No one should notice her, so it shouldn't be a problem for you to draw off it."

"What if it doesn't work?" She shook her head. "It's hard enough for me to draw off of it when *I'm* holding it!"

Crysabelle placed a hand on her shoulder. "Don't worry my lady. I'm fey, and we're *excellent* conductors of magic."

Cassandra smiled. "Thank you." She walked over to the mirror and watched Crysabelle behind her. "I know Stephan brought you here and why. If I make it through this…"

Natalie entered the room smiling. "I'm ready to collect my prize Jareth. Where is she?"

"Come now Jareth, you haven't hidden her somewhere have you? That's against the rules."

All eyes turned to view the source of the new voice. Cassandra stood in the doorway, her face a mixture of anger and power.

Stephan raised his head sadly, then his eyes widened at her appearance. The simple black dress she wore emanated strength and beauty. The silver crown nestled softly in her auburn hair. He looked to Jareth and saw his brother reacting much the same way.

Natalie however, was not moved by Cassandra's appearance and turned an impatient gaze on her. "Well, let's go."

Jareth watched Cassandra carefully. *Bluffing isn't going to help her. What's going through her mind?* He saw Talius standing at the far side of the room with Crysabelle, who held a small bundle of silk. Raising an eyebrow he addressed the room.

The woman smiled slowly, evenly. "I state the challenge. She must transform herself into a winged creature, just as all with any magic can do."

Cassandra gulped. *Winged creature? What? I don't know anything about…* She glanced over at Jareth and concentrated. The owl.

So it was possible. So what? There was no way she was going to be able to do that.

"Find it within yourself child, the crystal will aid you." Cassandra heard Talius whisper in her ear.

He opened his hands in a gesture of innocence. "Why nothing Lady Natalie, just offering her some support.

Cassandra closed her eyes and *searched*. A bird, she must become a bird. But which one?

Suddenly, in a corner of her mind she felt the wings flap. Beautiful, mysterious black wings. Delving deeper she allowed the feathers to surround her, the wings to wrap her in their embrace…

"It's not working, let's stop this foolishness. We all know she doesn't have any magic." Natalie moved to the side, walking towards Jareth.

Cassandra felt herself changing, but nothing physical happened. *Why.. oh… the crystal* She searched the room, and found the source of energy, cradled within Crysabelle's arms. She reached out, felt her mind connect with it and…

Where Cassandra had once stood now was occupied by only a silver crown. Jareth looked up, and over to the windowsill, where a black winged hawk stood, watching them with aqua eyes.

They had all paid no attention to Natalie, who stood still, her anger raging within her. "No, no she's still mine! This is a trick!"

Stephan turned on her with a smile. "No my dear, it's not a trick, it's magic. Now, I think *you*, " he pointed a finger towards her. "Need to go home." With a smile to Jareth he flipped his hands, and a crystal began to form in the air. It grew larger and larger until it covered Natalie, pulling her within and suddenly becoming solid.

It disappeared in a flash, leaving the room quiet. Stephan nodded to his brother and turned to the window, where the hawk still rested. "Okay dear, you can come out now."

Jareth laughed. "I don't think she *knows* how to come out. Here, I'll help." He stopped suddenly and turned to the bird. "That is, if you want?"

Laughing Jareth connected with the hawk, finding Cassandra's mind within and leading her through the steps to return to human form.

As the last feather swirled around her Cassandra stood just as she had before. Silently she picked up the silver crown and smiled. For a moment her eyes locked with Jareth's, but he turned away before she could read his expression. She turned back to the others. "Phew. I'm glad that's over with."

"No, that's not really what I meant." At everyone's curious glances she continued.

Cassandra stood beside Jareth and watched as Stephan and Talius rode off into the distance. She waved vigorously until they disappeared.

"*Miss* him? Cassandra, need I remind you it was *he* who caused all this trouble to begin with?"

Turning away Jareth glanced up at the moon which was barely visible. "And so it ends."

He turned back and smiled down at her. "Yes, there is. Perhaps we'll see this beginning to its end."

"Perhaps…" She laughed and leaned out over the balcony. "Fifty years is such a long time."

"Famished." With one last look out over the labyrinth she stepped away from the ledge.

Somewhere between him throwing it and Cassandra catching it the crystal had transformed into a gorgeous pastel rose. Cassandra brought it up her face and inhaled its sweet fragrance. "Thank you Jareth."

He nodded and held out his arm once more. She smiled, and placing her arm on his they walked back into the castle. On their way down a long hallway Jareth asked her if there was anything she needed.

"Cassandra, I'm afraid it's impossible for it to be out of tune. Those strings will *never* go out of tune."

Cassandra blushed, but shook her head. "No, it just doesn't sound right. There's something wrong with them."

"I'm sorry. It's just that you so resemble a fish like that." He began laughing even harder.

"That's it!" She threw down the rose and took off running down the corridor. Smiling slightly Jareth watched her until she turned a corner.

Jareth bent down and picked up the rose Cassandra had thrown in her fit. He twirled it across his lips pensively.

He lowered the rose as a small smile crept across his lips. So much to do in such a short amount of time. So many places for her to explore, so many creatures for her to meet. So many smiles, hopefully less tears. So many chances. So many ends, and equally so many beginnings for her. For them both.

Jareth stared at it for a long moment, then looked back down the hallway where she had ran.

The Goblin King walked down the hallway, goblins running here and there, cleaning, carrying trays and fabrics. A contented sigh escaped the king's lips, the first in a long time. As he passed the goblins they stopped, marveling at the wonderful change that occurred in their king. Perhaps now things would be better around here? More light? They watched him in open admiration until he turned, seeing them all staring after him with large eyes.

He turned back around and continued down the hallway, a small smile playing on his lips. He wasn't quite sure, but as he passed the east wing, he could swear he heard harp music drifting through the doors. If one had asked him then he would have called it the most beautiful sound he had ever heard.