Breaking Barriers (Chapter 28 up)

After his encounter with Sarah, the Goblin King wandered through the halls of his castle feeling slightly happier than his usual somber attitude.

Jareth had awoken feeling quite pleasant that day. Immediately upon opening his eyes to the new day, the Goblin King reminded himself that although he may have been temporarily out of commission due to Sarah's little entrapment, he had gained victory in the end. Sarah had agreed to his ploy and despite the many mishaps of the night that was all that mattered to Jareth in the end.

Although he and Sarah had had a rocky encounter the day before, Jareth had decided to let her off easy today, feeling, perhaps against his better judgment, a bit sorry for the girl. Jareth had never seen her quite so downtrodden and thought that perhaps what she had gone through was sufficient punishment for her. Though he had been privy to many of Sarah's most tearful occasions, he had never once elicited them himself. Guilt was not an emotion that Jareth was familiar with. Yet he had already confirmed that Sarah was able to make him feel things he did not think he was capable of. Perhaps that's why he had wanted to make a kind gesture towards Sarah today. He knew he had had every right to make Sarah feel miserable after what she had pulled, but he knew that if he simply swallowed his pride perhaps things could carry on as if what had happened had never occurred. And as for how he felt, he didn't know why he even had the slightest inkling of pity for the provoking wench. The evening had been so meticulously planned by the Goblin King and he felt a bit slighted at having it ruined. But he was trying to move on now. Moving the bookshelf for Sarah had been such a small thing for him to do, but now he was extremely pleased at having done so. He had easily read Sarah's happiness and surprise for his helpfulness though it had been difficult to achieve a thank you. But then, he felt she had almost made up for it with how delighted she had been at the mention of his theater. Jareth had never before seen her face light up that much. If he had known how affected Sarah would be at that news he wouldn't have even bothered trying to garner her favor by moving the shelf, though it really was no trouble for the heavily practiced Goblin King. He wasn't exactly sure what moving the bookshelf had been about, but he truly did assume it was because Sarah was bored. And Jareth didn't doubt it. For a moment that cumbersome guilty feeling enveloped him again. He knew he would have certainly gone mad by now if he was forced to remain in the same room day after day, though she had deserved her confinement at the time as punishment.

At this thought Jareth paused in his meanderings. There was yet time in the day. Though Sarah had most likely already consumed the dinner prepared by his goblin servents he could still get her out of her room for awhile. He didn't believe Sarah would be able to cause too many difficulties as long as he accompanied her. He would still be able to keep a watchful eye on the girl. Jareth was inspired by his earlier success of the day. Perhaps treating the girl with a bit more kindness would be the way to win her regard. And he had had little opportunity to use his seductive techniques on the girl thanks to her enchantment last night. Where could he bring Sarah to earn her favor?

Immediately Jareth thought of the castle library. He had witnessed Sarah's approval of books through Curlique several times by now.

With that Jareth instantly made a decision. He headed for his chambers and immediately upon entering summoned Curlique. While he waited for the goblin's arrival Jareth wrote a brief note to Sarah requesting she accompany him outside of her bedroom for conversation and companionship and to be ready at 8 oclock. Jareth knew he could simply apparate the letter over to Sarah's as he had previously, but he wanted Curlique to be present for his viewing pleasure. As soon as the goblin arrived Jareth gave her the note and asked her to deliver it to Sarah promptly. Curlique, still a bit shaken as witness to Jareth's temper the previous night, grasped the little letter immediately and left his chamber without hesitation. Upon her exit Jareth delved into the little goblin's mind.

Jareth watched as Curlique waved to the two goblins guarding Sarah's door then knocked on the paneling with her little fist. A faint "come in" could be heard from within. Curlique entered the room and Jareth was suddenly stunned by the brilliant smile that spread across Sarah's features. Briefly the Goblin King felt a stab of jealousy. Certainly Sarah had never regarded him with such an affectionate expression. In that instant Jareth swore to himself that he would have that same smile presented to him before the night was out.

"Curlique!" Sarah exclaimed, "I'm so glad to see you! There's something I want to show you..."

Sarah made a grab for the little goblin's hand that Curlique avoided. Sarah looked at the goblin with worry.

"I'm sorry Sarah, but his Highness has sent me on an errand. He gave me this to give to you." Curlique held up the bit of paper.

Jareth inwardly cursed at having so faithful a servent at this moment. Now he was devestatingly curious to discover what Sarah had been about to show the goblin, and it appeared that Sarah forgot her earlier excitement at the mention of him and quickly adopted a more sober expression. Jareth heard a quiet sigh escape her lips.

"Give it here, Curlique. Thank you."

Sarah grasped the note and quickly scanned its contents while Curlique stood nearby. Jareth could see the goblin's tiny fingers twiddling in his peripheral vision. But the Goblin King was much more focused on Sarah's reaction. He could almost see the inner battle that Sarah now faced. He could tell that she longed to escape the confines of her room, but she hesitated for the obvious reasons. For a moment, Jareth had to wonder what he would do if she declined his request. Creating a scene was certainly the opposite affect he had been going for with this note, but if she didn't comply he would be forced to do something. He couldn't let Sarah assume she could get away with defiance. But luckily, it appeared he would not have to fight with her, not today at least. He saw Sarah give a brief nod before making her way to her wardrobe, no doubt with the intention of donning something a bit more suitable than the jeans and t-shirt she was wearing at the moment. After rummaging around a bit, Sarah seemed to remember the goblin and handed her the letter.

"Here you go, dearest. Please return this to Jareth and tell him I accept his request."

Jareth again experienced the uncomfortable sensation that came with the goblin's nod of assent before he exited Curlique's mind. After the goblin returned and delivered the assertion he already expected Jareth looked at the clock in his chamber. Already he only had ten minutes before departing with Sarah. The time flew by as Jareth contemplated all that he would hopefully accomplish this evening. If all went well he might even be able to completely rectify the uncomfortable situation himself and Sarah had been in last night. When the clock struck eight Jareth made his way to Sarah's chamber door and gave a quiet tap announcing his presence. He waited to hear Sarah's muttered acquiescence then opened the door with a bit more pretense than usual.

Sarah was wearing proper evening wear that most women wore in her world. An elegant black dress wrapped around her slim yet curvy figure. Thin straps at her perfectly formed shoulders held up the gown that ended just above the knee. The thin chain with the tiny key still graced the curve of her neck. A pair of delicate sandals with dainty heels completed the becoming ensemble. She looked positively alluring, Jareth thought as he scrutinized her bare legs for the second time. Upon seeing her Jareth offered an open elbow that Sarah hesitantly accepted. The Goblin King sensed Sarah's wariness at the formal presentation as she lightly grasped the proffered arm. Jareth led them down the hall and they walked in silence for a while. Jareth wanted to wait and see how long it would take before Sarah's curiosity overwhelmed her. His patience was rewarded when Sarah finally broke the silence.

"So..." Sarah began quietly, "Where are we going Jareth? And... what's with the formalities?"

Jareth smirked to himself. It must have had been quite some time since Sarah had been on, what was called in her world, a "date." Though he was doing this with the strictest intentions of wooing her and not with much actual affection she still couldn't see that he was making an effort to appease her. Though he admittedly must appear the true wolf in sheep's clothing to her right now. He knew that when it came to him, Sarah’s trust would not be gained easily. Well, then she left him no choice. He would just have to make her believe in him.

"Come now, Sarah, can you really be so naive as to what is taking place here?" Jareth sent Sarah a flirtatious glance that was met with a shocked expression. Sarah blinked rapidly before gaining a bit of composure.

"W-well..." Sarah started slowly, "I can't help but find this a bit... uncharacteristic of you..."

Jareth lifted an eyebrow as if to question what she meant, though he knew perfectly well what she was alluding to. The Goblin King chuckled quietly to himself.

"Well, Sarah, I can't help but wonder just exactly what you mean by that."

Sarah looked at him with a confused expression, at this point no doubt questioning her hearing, not to mention her sanity.

“I mean... what’s with the special treatment? You’ve been... disconcertingly nice to me today. But even this is different than earlier... where are the jibes? The mock queries? It just doesn’t seem the same without them,” Sarah finished a bit sarcastically.

Jareth pulled her in a bit closer to his side. Though the move had been completely staged, Jareth couldn’t stop himself from noticing how warm and inviting her body was next to his, reaffirming his beliefs on how lovely she had felt last night.

“Sarah,” Jareth sighed, as if confessing a great burden, “I admit my attempts at gathering your attention might come off a bit uncouth at times... but surely you realize...?”

Jareth left the phrase unfinished, allowing Sarah to complete the sentence in her mind. At this the girl shook her head as if to ward off ridiculous notions, but Jareth noticed with a bit of satisfaction there was a hint of a blush rising in Sarah’s cheeks. Though he knew Sarah had no reason to lie to the little goblin, Jareth questioned again whether Sarah had been entirely truthful in her confession to her.

"Ah, so I see my actions have not gone entirely without notice."

Sarah dropped her head a bit, as though slightly ashamed.

"Your actions may have been appreciated at times, but frankly your words have the affect of canceling them out." Sarah muttered, as if afraid of what her statement might evoke in him.

Jareth, a bit surprised at her forthrightness, threw his head back and laughed for the first time in Sarah's presence. Sarah appeared a bit alarmed at this, wondering what she had said to elicit such a strange response from the Goblin King. Jareth looked down at her with a new sort of glint in his eye.

"Sarah, can you blame me for all that I have said to you throughout these years? Perhaps if you weren't so damned stubborn all the time your stay here would be more enjoyable."

Sarah, though she appeared to absorb this information, continued to pout. Jareth assumed she still thought her treatment was unwarranted. He inwardly sighed. At least what he had said in that final statement was true. He would have thought that she would have figured that out by now. If Sarah continuously defied him Jareth had no choice but to put her in her place. He would not so easily let her forget that he was the Goblin King. As such she would obey him in all things while she remained in the Goblin City.

But that was not what he wished to impress upon her this evening, Jareth thought as he stopped in front of the library doors. He wanted her to enjoy her small moment of freedom.

"Here now, Sarah," Jareth consoled, then, acting on impulse, lifted her chin so she would face him, "Perhaps this will obtain your approval."

Sarah looked at him with traces of fear behind her eyes. Yet there was something else hidden there. Did Jareth dare believe he saw a fleeting hint of desire within their grey depths? Instinctively Jareth filed away this knowledge for further inspection at a later time, but at the same time his heart experienced a quickening of pace. Ignoring the sensation, Jareth turned his attention to the door and flung it wide open.

Jareth heard Sarah's breath catch in her throat. The small sound escaping her lips was something he had expected. The room was quite unlike anything else within the castle and Jareth took a moment to admire it himself. One should never grow too accustomed to their surroundings.

A fireplace was crackling from across the room emmitting an effervescent aura throughout the cozy atmosphere. A pair of velvet covered chairs glowed in the inviting warmth of the flickering flame. Surrounding the stone structure of the fireplace and filled within each and every remaining crevice of the library were thousands and thousands of books. Sarah, seeming to be in a sort of daze, gently removed her hands from the crook of Jareth's elbow. She stepped forward hesitantly, as if wanting to move in every direction at once. Overwhelmed, Sarah turned to Jareth. The catch in Sarah's throat may have been expected on the Goblin King's part, but what he had not profesied was the look she bestowed upon him now. Wonder, awe and... gratefulness could be seen on her features. And soon, her expression changed to that of a gleeful young girl that had just opened a mountain full of gifts. And then, Jareth was awarded the smile he had been so covetous of Curlique earlier. Sarah approached him, still looking at her surroundings in delight.

"Oh Jareth... It's... it's... beyond words..." Sarah breathed.

Jareth, caught up in her moment of exquisite joy, felt the cadence of his heart beat rise again. He managed to keep his features in check, but he was unable to avoid the onslaught of emotions that suddenly claimed him. He watched in fascination as Sarah hastened to the shelf nearest her and began running her fingers along the spines of the old tomes. Every now and then she would emit a gasp of surprise upon seeing a title she recognized. For some reason, knowing that he had been the cause of such pleasure, Sarah looked especially enticing right now. As the Goblin King felt his resolve crumbling, Jareth had to wonder if he had been placed under a spell again.

But then again... maybe, just maybe, Sarah by herself was enough to bewitch him.

Jareth slowly moved forward, as if in a dream. An annoying voice in the back of his head told him to stop, but Jareth ignored it. He quietly walked up behind Sarah. It took a moment for her to realize his nearness. But she eventually did. Jareth watched as her hands suddenly ceased their movements and rested on the books in front of her. Jareth heard a ringing in his ears. The room was silent save for the popping of the fire. Without really meaning to, Jareth noticed how Sarah's nearly bare shoulders now moved imperceptively. Her breathing had become heavier. The voice in Jareth's head was now shouting at him, yet somehow he felt incapable of heeding its warning. Sarah's long hair fell over her shoulders and back. It smelled of lavendar. Jareth suddenly remembered how he had plunged his nose into the fragrant locks the previous day, surrounding himself in the intoxicating aroma. Between the heavy locks white skin peeked out at Jareth. Though her hair had always been something he had secretly adored, Jareth wished to see her soft skin free of the troublesome tresses. In a sudden movement Jareth swept aside the heavy curtain of hair and gazed hungrily at the unmarred skin beneath. Sarah gasped at the contact. Her shoulders were now heaving, whether in terror or desire he did not know, but the fact that she had not removed herself from him was encouraging. At the sight of her alabaster skin so near him, Jareth felt his own mounting desire. He wanted to feel that smooth skin beneath his fingertips without the hindrance of his gloves. He had never removed them before in Sarah's presence. At that thought, his hands twitched anxiously, as if possessed of a life of their own. They itched to carry out his desire. And just as he stuck a gloved tip between his teeth about to dispose of the cumbersome bit of cloth, the aggravating voice in his head that had been about to feebly give up suddenly sprang back to life.

What was he doing? Jareth looked at the girl beneath him and noticed she was slightly trembling, anticipating his next move. The goal of seducing Sarah to an extent had certainly been met, yet he had not ceased his actions. He felt triumph at having incited such feelings within Sarah, but to be experiencing those emotions himself was unacceptable. Not only that it was unforgiveable. If he chose to take this girl he was also choosing to abandon his city, and that he would never concede to. With regret, Jareth released the grip his teeth had on his leather glove and quickly stepped back. As much as his body wished to continue what it had started his mind would not allow it. He needed to end this tryst immediately.

"Well, I believe you have seen enough of what I wanted to show you. It's time to leave."

Feeling an uncomfortable combination of regret, anger, and guilt, Jareth's words perhaps came out harsher than he meant them to. Sarah turned around with a confused expression on her face.

"But... we just got here... "

Jareth thought he heard disappointment in the wistful reply, but whether it was from her shortlived freedom or denied lust Jareth did not know. Jareth turned away, expecting her to follow him. When she did not Jareth grasped her forearm, perhaps a bit harder than necessary, and pulled her out of the comforting presence of the library.

"You should feel lucky," Jareth stated coldly, guilt still eating away at him, "Instead of punishing you for your transgression last night I rewarded it. I may not be so lenient in the future."

Sarah appeared shocked and hurt at this phrase.

"Haven't I already been punished enough for what I did yesterday? If you want an apology, then you can have it-"

Jareth, eager to unleash the anger he felt towards himself, interrupted Sarah as he continued his procedure through the halls.

"An apology doesn't even begin to cover what you did yesterday, Sarah," he spoke bitterly, "Do not even bother wasting your breath."

At that Sarah's hurt and shock quickly turned to anger. She attempted to wrench her arm out of his grasp.

"Let go of me!" Sarah exclaimed.

Jareth ignored her, maintaining his grip.

"How dare you!" Sarah bit out, "I can't believe I almost thought that we would be able to go out and behave like decent beings to one another!"

"Yes that was a grave misunderstanding on your part," Jareth countered.

Sarah's eyes flashed.

"You know what? I don't even care anymore!" Sarah retorted, "Who could ever enjoy the company of someone who almost raped them?"

Now Jareth was starting to get angry at Sarah. That sentiment was completely uncalled for and she knew it. He needed to reciprocate her low blow if he had any chance of walking away with his dignity left.

"Who could ever enjoy the company of a spoiled bitch?" Jareth spat, finally reaching Sarah's door. Sarah gasped, mouth agape amazed he had said such a hurtful thing. She again attempted to escape Jareth's grasp.

"Let go of me!"

Jareth continued to wrestle for dominance, now feeling complete fury towards this girl. This girl that would not submit to him. Sarah's eyes glinted in hatred as she jerked her arm one last time.

"LET. GO!"

Suddenly Jareth felt as if a huge weight threw him aside. The arm that had been holding Sarah's arm released and flung in a wide arch. Jareth staggered, amazed at Sarah's strength. Stunned, for a moment Jareth wondered how she could have achieved such a feat. Then he realized what must have happened. Her magic must have aided her. He inspected his hand, surprised it was not damaged from the blow.

Sarah, finally free of Jareth's grasp, opened the door and entered her room. With a final scathing glance she slammed the door shut in his face.

With a wince Jareth walked back to his room. Things had suddenly become quite a bit more complicated.

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A/N Nice looooooooong chapter here, folks :)

Jareth is starting to realize he can no longer deny how attracted he is to Sarah... and unfortunately for him that makes matters much more difficult... not to mention that now her magical powers seem to have begun in earnest. However what she does not know exists she can't control. She is certainly not making it easy on Jareth.

@Ikaru- Lol, I believe that this chapter answers most of your speculations ^_^ Except for how Jareth can't sense the magic of the oubliette... I don't want to give too much away, but what Sarah wished for was a place to stay hidden, therefore it would not alert Jareth to it's whereabouts.

@ Vyperbites- Thanks so much for your encouragement! Holy crap, a hundred chapters??? @_@ lol. And don't worry, I still plan on checking out some of your work... just gotta find some time ...* LOL about the image thing XD

@Ginette1959- I guess I'm not exactly sure what you're asking me... but hopefully it is something that will be answered in upcoming chapters :)

@kookookitty- Lol, if Sarah wishes for a hole in the ground, what she gets is a hole in the ground XD without any knowledge and control her magic takes things literally... with perhaps some past references for guidance XD Hahaha, yeah what you described would make much more sense ;)

Thanks for reading ~TheArtist