Goblins, Vampires and Demons, Oh my!

By: Thursday's Child

Summary: What happens when the characters of my favourite show, Buffy, and my favourite movie, Labyrinth, come together to create a awesome, thirteen hour, television special.

Disclaimer: I wish to remind everyone that I’m only borrowing the characters I use for the mini-series. They will be returned to the almighty Joss Whedon and Mutant Enemy, as well as Jim Henson and Brian Froud once I am finished.

Just for your information: In this story, I’m assuming that Labyrinth could have taken place in any year in the past two decades. This story takes place in early 2000. It has only been twelve years since Sarah was put through the Labyrinth, assuming she was fifteen during the movie, she is now twenty-seven. Also, I’ve known Doyle was going to die for a long time now, and I don’t care! I like Doyle. I think he’s sweet, funny and definitely cute. So, in my story, Doyle is still around. Hope you all understand! Love, me.

Buffy Summers was extremely bored in her Drama Class. She wasn’t usually. Often, Sarah, her teacher gave them interesting moves or hilarious improves to work on. Today, however, twenty of the fifty minutes allotted for the class had passed and Sarah had yet to appear.

The restless teenager heaved what must have been her millionth sigh and turned her gaze from Parker’s unimpressive antics to the lazy, late spring afternoon outside. It was the third semester into her Junior year of college, and for the most part she enjoyed the freedom that came with being away in college. She lived in a small, one story home with Spike, Xander, Tara, and Willow, her best friends in the world.

This evening was only four hours away. When it arrived, Buffy would be heading to Giles’ house, along with all her friends to research some get after it freaks old western costumes (kinda like the Gorches, yuck!) and toting major weapons who had been plaguing Sunnydale for the past few weeks.

In the meantime, seconds were ticking by and still Sarah hadn’t appeared. Buffy’s thoughts drifted to her teacher. She hoped nothing horrible had happened to the woman. Buffy rather liked her. She was smart, talented and most of all, beautiful. She had shiny, brunette hair that brushed her waist, delicate, pale skin and chocolate eyes filled with warmth. Buffy could also relate to her since they were both among the shorter of the fairer sex. Sarah was also informal and expected everyone to call her by her first name.

A loud burst of laughter broke her reverie and Buffy looked up to find Parker sprawled on the floor, feigning a broken leg. The slayer ignored her idiotic nemesis and glanced over at her teacher’s desk.

‘That’s odd.’ Buffy mused to herself. Sarah’s briefcase was lying, half -open on the desk with the contents spilling out. Inconspicuously, she walked over. A few graded tests were the first thing that caught her eye. She skipped over them to see a couple books, a lucky charm in the shape of a troll and leather bound play book titled ‘Labyrinth’. Buffy gingerly took the old, obviously treasured book into her hands. Carefully, she turned to a random page.

F1: Hey, her head doesn’t come off.

S: (pushing him away violently) Of course it doesn’t. (Grabs a head off one the Fireies and tosses it into the woods.)

F1: You can’t do that! That’s his head. (Sheila grabs his head) That’s my head. (Sheila finishes taking all the heads while the creatures offer up various protests. Then, she takes off down the path. The blind creatures take off after her.)

S: Help, someone, please!

F3: Hey, lady, come back! You can’t just take someone’s head.

F1: Yeah, you only allowed to take off your own head.

Buffy smiled at the text then flipped forward a little.

S: Through dangers untold, and hardships unnumbered, I have fought my way here, to the kingdom beyond the goblin city, to take back the child you have stolen from me.

‘Whoa, deep’ Buffy thought, impressed. Suddenly, the door opened and Buffy turned to it quickly. In the doorway stood an extremely handsome man. He wore a dark suit and glasses, reminding the Slayer of ‘Men in Black’. His long, blonde hair was pulled back in a tight ponytail with a few wisps hanging loose. He caught sight of Buffy and lowered his mirrored sunglasses to gaze at her appreciatively. She felt her breath catch in her chest and she lowered her eyes as a blush crept into her cheeks. Sliding the glasses back up, he smiled ravishingly at her and she grinned shyly.

Slowly, the gorgeous man sauntered over to where she was resting weakly against the desk, the leather book all but forgotten. “Hello, students. I’m here to announce that Miss Williams will not be able to attend any classes today, so I’m the substitute for her.” He had a thick English accent that caused Buffy to tremble. “Is there any reason in particular, miss…”

“Summers.” She replied feebly.

“Yes. That you are going through Sarah’s belongings?” He questioned, gently prying the soft leather from her fingers.

Somewhere, in the back of her mind, Buffy was protesting. How dare she allow this man to intimidate her? However, she couldn’t respond or retaliate. It was as if she were under a spell. He smiled knowingly, brushing his leather encased fingertips over her delicate skin. Then, he moved away and Buffy’s mind cleared.

Pissed off at that horribly attractive man and herself for permitting him to subdue her, Buffy retreated to Willow and Tara. The blonde witch watched the substitute teacher with a speculative eye. “You think he’s cute?” She asked.

Buffy shrugged. “He’s okay.” She commented. Then, she lowered her voice, “He kind of got my ‘spider sense’ tingling, though.”

Willow’s and Tara’s widened and the two friends turned to glare suspiciously at the tall, pale man who had the rest of the class’s rapt observance. “Alright, class, since Sarah left no regime for us to follow, why don’t we read from this lovely piece that was lying on her desk?”

Most everyone nodded enthusiastically. Everyone, that is, except Willow and Buffy. That’s most probably why the mysterious man suggested, “Miss Summers, how about you play the heroine, Sheila?”

Buffy gave him a deadly glare, but the handsome man simply smiled malevolently. Stubbornly, Buffy grabbed the text from his hands, smirking since she was once again in possession of the ‘Labyrinth’.

“And for the villain?” All the females in the class raised their hands eagerly. “How about you,” He was gesturing to Parker and missed the evil look Buffy and Willow shot him.

Dutifully, the ‘villain’ trudged up to Buffy. Buffy frowned silently. Michelle Adams and Jane DeEigo joined the small group filling the roles off Sheila’s two travelling companions, Hogwart and Lena. The two girls had very small roles and returned to their seats after a couple of lines. Parker and Buffy were left to finish the climatic scene between the villain and the heroine.

Parker spoke dramatically, holding the script with one hand, using the other to gesture to the room around him. “You have rather high expectations of me, Sheila, and I’m exhausted from living up to them. I’ve done everything for you. I have been so generous to you!”

“Generous! Generous?” Buffy demanded incredulously. “What have you done that shows your generosity?”

“You ask that your brother be taken, and I took him! You cowered before me. I was frightening. I have reordered time and I have turned the world upside down.” His harsh words turned suddenly soft, “And I have done it all for you.”

Buffy’s breath caught in her throat. Parker had really let himself be lost in the role. “I don’t want to live in your dreams anymore.” He whispered harshly, leaning close to the small Slayer.

“Through dangers untold, and hardships unnumbered, I have fought my way here, to the castle beyond the Goblin City, to take back the child you have stolen from me.” She whispered, barely looking at the text before her. Instead, her eyes were staring softly into those of the bane of her existence. She felt the same as she had when the sub had been talking to her: Helpless, like a puppet.

“Sheila, wait!” He shouted almost desperately. He gently tried to coax her out of the decision she was making. “See what I’m offering you? Your dreams! Anything your heart desires can be yours.”

Buffy contemplated his request, but in her eyes, one could see her mind was already set. “For my will is as strong as yours, and my kingdom is as great.” She paused melodramatically, then whispered forcefully, “You have no power over me.”

Parker’s expression became desperate and haunted as he flung his hands up powerlessly. Just as the performance ended, a bell rang. Everyone in the class applauded wildly. Including Xander, who had been waiting outside, but had joined the room to see her friend’s performance.

“Wow, Buff, that was awesome!” The brunette enthused.

“Really?” Buffy asked modestly.

“Yeah, you did cool.” Tara replied.

Buffy handed the book to the MIB, then Xander slung his arms over all three women, “Later teacher-man!” He called over his shoulder.

A few hours later, after a quick snack, and lounging about, the three friends headed towards their mode of transportation. Suddenly, a leather encased arm slid around Buffy’s waist, and a pair of glistening fangs sank into her neck. Buffy let out a loud sound of half protest, half pleasure, drawing attention to herself and causing her three friends to roll their eyes at the same time.

Xander cleared his throat. “Uh, not to ruin the magic moment, but you’re gathering quite a crowd.” Tara and Willow giggled quietly, sharing a meaningful look.

The demon behind Buffy reverted to his human face and licked away any blood that had escaped his hungry mouth. The twin wounds on the Slayer’s neck were already nearly closed. “Sorry, baby.” The deep voice of her lover whispered, “I’m just bloody glad to be able to do that again, thanks to your watcher. Plus, I hadn’t fed and I got a little carried away.”

“A little?” She asked dreamily, maintaining consciousness only by sheer force of will. She clung to the arm around her body to keep herself standing.

The vampire smiled, hefting her into his arms and carrying her to his old Thunderbird. “I promise I’ll let you get your strength back before I begin the main course.” He replied wickedly. The tone in his voice sent ripples of anticipation through her body. Although she knew she was the menu, she had the distinct impression it wasn’t her blood Spike was after.

The ride to Sunnyhell (as Spike so lovingly referred to the town) was the typical one for the mismatched group. Willow and Tara held hands quietly and watched the rest of the occupants with humour as Xander and Spike taunted one another and Buffy served as referee.

The Slayer, vampire, two witches and the Slayerettes’ jester, arrived at the home of Giles shortly after nine. “Oh, joy!” Buffy exclaimed as she tossed her book bag on the couch. A large amount of old tomes were lying around the small living room and the slayer got the distinct feeling tonight was going to be filled with plenty of reading a no ‘shagging’ as her partner would put it. She glanced down at the large, square diamond on her fourth finger, her wedding finger and figured pretty soon there would be an abundant amount of lovemaking time. Just as soon as a single gold band accompanied the other. Not that squeezing in a little now would hurt anything. She smiled faintly, remembering the first time she and Spike had been betrothed. It seemed years ago

When Buffy and Spike had first become a couple, it was the biggest, most shocking news to hit the vampire community since Angel got his soul back. Not to mention the waves it caused within Buffy’s own circle of friends and with the Council. Giles was just about convinced they might send someone to kill Buffy themselves, just so they wouldn’t have to deal with her any longer.

During the first month or so, relationships were rather strained, while everyone was still unsure of Spike’s motives, but soon, they all came to appreciate his help and his friendship. He and Xander were the closest, besides of course, Spike and Buffy. The two men had in common their strong dislike of Angel. When they weren’t coming up with horrible names, or deaths for the soul-filled vampire, they were busy making fun of each other.

Willow was the next closest to the peroxide blonde vampire. The two could sit around for hours on end, their talks ranging from computers to French literature.

The watcher had been the only one to hesitate very long. But, once Buffy reminded him of how Spike had prevented Angel from killing the librarian, Giles reluctantly admitted he wasn’t that bad of a guy.

Giles greeted the teenagers, as well as Spike with a tray of tea, coffee and pig’s blood, gesturing for them to sit down. “I’m glad you’re all here, how are classes going?” He asked, settling into the loveseat next to Cordelia. The beautiful brunette had returned to Sunnydale for a weekend or two, just to get away from Angel and Wesley.

Anya slid her hand into her estranged boyfriend’s and pulled him down on the couch. “I missed you sweetie.” She told him with a little kiss.

“So, Cordy, how goes it in L.A.? It’s been a while.” Buffy began conversation.

“Well life with Angel is never boring. Slaying vampires one night, defeating demons the next. You know. Then of course you have Wesley, our very own comic relief.” Cordelia replied.

Buffy smiled sympathetically, “I’m sorry, Cordelia, really.”

A few hours later, the group was busy in research mode. Everyone had curled up with a book or two and were intent on finding the particular nasty of the week. Which still happened to be those weird dudes running around campus like it was an army camp.

Cordelia stood, yawning and headed towards the kitchen. “Anyone want a refill?” She asked. Buffy nodded her agreement, handing Cordy her cup and never taking her eyes off the page. Xander and Giles also offered theirs to her. She left the room, stretching.

Buffy let out a strangled snicker as she read the contents of the page. All eyes turned to her. “Hey Xander, does this sound familiar to you?” She asked then read out loud. “The King of the Goblins is Jareth. He is very powerful in many different types of magic and is often found causing mischief wherever and whenever he can.”

“Hey, isn’t that the name of the character I was playing in class today?” Tara asked, interested.

“Yeah. Whoever wrote this book must have seen that play one too many times.” She paused to read a little more, then laughed again, “Get this! It says: Do not repeat the following words unless you are prepared to travel the castle beyond the Goblin City.”

“I dare ya to say em Buffy!” Xander said playfully, “Then we can have a repeat performance.”

“Buffy…” Anya began, but was cut off by the slayer.

“Yeah, right. Excuse my French, but these words couldn’t do shit.”

“Nevertheless, Buffy, it would be wise to ignore them and keep searching.” Giles warned.

“Buffy, I don’t think…” Once again, the ex-demon was interrupted.

The young Slayer ignored them both, “I wish the Goblins would come and take us away right now!” She shouted comically.

The lights went out and Buffy had barely enough time to see the shadows of moving creatures before she fell unconscious. “What’d I say?” She protested.

“Sorry Buffy, but there was no more cream in the…” Cordelia paused mid-sentence. The lights in the living room had burned out and Cordy couldn’t make out any figures. “Guys?” She questioned, flipping the switch. Nothing happened. She heard scraping on the window. “Okay, you guys, it might have been scary a second ago, but now it’s just lame. Giles, I can’t believe you’re in on this.” Still no one replied.

The window burst open and a pristine white owl fluttered in. Instinctively, Cordelia held her arms above her head and shielded her face. When she realised that she wasn’t being attacked, she lowered her arms. Instead of the bird, a tall, incredibly gorgeous man stood before her. He looked very majestic with long, blonde hair, stunning mismatched eyes and bold makeup.

“Uh, hi?” She said, a somewhat perplexed look on her face. “Are you sure you’re at the right house? Cause no one else is here, they all took off. Unless you know where they went.”

Jareth faltered. The girl in front of him didn’t seem the least bit surprised by his appearance. “Hey!” She added after his silence, “I’m talking to you. You know it’s very rude to just storm into someone’s house and ignore them.”

“My name is Jareth. I’m King of the Goblins.” He replied, confused. “Didn’t you summon me?”

Cordelia looked at him strangely, “Sorry, Jarod.”

“Jareth.”

“Whatever. I didn’t summon any Goblins. I’m living Goblin-free these days.” Under her breath she added, “Not monster or vampire free, just Goblin-free.”

“Well, someone has to complete the Labyrinth.” He told her.

“Do they now?” Cordelia asked, her tone of voice letting him know she thought he was crazy.

“Yes, you must either go yourself, or choose a champion.” Jareth instructed her.

“No, no, no, buster. You want me to do your stupid maze? Fine! But it’s my way, or the highway.” She told him matter-of-factly.

Jareth stared at her in surprise. How dare some scrawny-albeit beautiful human-tell him what to do? The girl stood before him expectantly, hands on her hips. He found himself respecting her a great deal. “Alright, what is ‘your way’?” He asked, raising a sculptured eyebrow at her vehemence.

“I go, plus I take a couple champions. Also, I get a change of clothes before we go.”

“Fine. Who do you wish to accompany you?” Jareth inquired.

Cordelia took a moment to look studious, then told him, “Angel and Wesley. But they’re in L.A.” No sooner were the words out of her mouth, did the vampire and ex-watcher turned rogue demon hunter appear in the living room beside her.

“Cordy. Hey, what’s going on?” Angle asked pleasantly, looking around.

“Did Willow bring us here? That’s a neat trick.” Wesley said, smiling.

“No, stupid, Willow didn’t bring you here. She’s not around. No one is.” She paused, sighing dramatically, “Why do I always get stuck saving everyone’s asses. Look, they up and disappeared, they being Buffy, Spike and the gang. Then, this weirdo shows up telling me I have to solve some stupid maze to find them. You are going to help me. He,” She gestured to the ‘Goblin King’ “Brought you here.”

Angel nodded his agreement. “I’ll go feed so I can keep up strength. Does Spike have a supply here?”

Jareth watched this exchange with something akin to horror. He hadn’t even phased these three with his sudden materialisation. In fact, they were acting as if this sort of thing was everyday, mundane happenings.

“Yeah, in the fridge, top left drawer. I’m going upstairs to change.”

Once inside the Giles’ spare room, Cordelia open her closet, removed her large chest and opened it. Once she had cleared away all the clothes inside, Cordelia took the false bottom out, revealing an abundant amount of weapons. She grabbed a large duffel bag began to load it with crossbows, stakes, holy water and a gun Buffy had recently acquired that held wooden bullets. She also tossed a couple tranquillisers in and grabbed a few crosses, stringing them around her neck.

The vampire and human rejoined Jareth a moment later and Cordelia announced they were ready to go as she placed crosses around Wesley and Angel’s chests as well, making sure it didn’t touch the vampire’s skin.

“Just one more stop on the way.” The mysterious man replied and a moment later, the living room was empty. Instead, the four stood on the doorstep of a large, Victorian home. Jareth rapped lightly on the door.

Cordelia snorted. “Oh, I see! Whoever lives here must be special if you don’t go bursting in through widows as an owl.” Jareth only glared at her. She noticed his change of dress as well. He wore a dark suit and his hair had been pulled back into a ponytail. Over his green and blue eyes, he wore dark, reflecting sunglasses. Not surprisingly, he still looked good.

The door opened and a woman who looked to be in her late twenties stood in the entrance. She had wavy brown hair that fell unrestrained around her waist and matching eyes that reflected intelligence and kindness. She wore a loose, dark blue summer dress, but one could still see she had a very nice figure. “Yes?” She asked, then her eyes widened in recognition. “What are you doing here?” She gasped.

Jareth smiled at her reaction, and pushed past her into the house. Wesley and Cordelia followed, but Angel remained on the front porch looking rather uncomfortable. “Oh come in, you big doofus!” Cordelia shouted, tugging his arm.

Apparently, her words did the trick and he entered the home unrestrained. The three friends watched the scene that was unfolding with the two strangers. “Jareth! What do you want? How did you come to this world?”

The smug smile on Jareth’s face grew wider. “I was wished here.” He informed her, crossing his arms over his chest.

“Who would be stupid enough to do that?” Sarah asked, disbelieving. “And, who are they?” She gestured to Cordy, Wesley and Angel.

“Hi, I’m Cordelia,” She began, “and this loser magnet is Wesley. And the hot but silent hero over there is Angel.” The other brunette answered, stepping forward to take the older woman’s hand. “And you are?”

“I’m Sarah Willaims. I take it one of you wished him here?” She replied.

“Yeah, right.” Angel responded, shaking his head no.

“One of their friends wished herself and some others away. It wasn’t intentional. Still, they’re at my palace and someone needs to navigate the maze in order to save them. Cordelia volunteered and she picked these two to join her.”

Sarah still looked rather suspicious. “So, where do I come in?” She asked hotly, tossing her hair over her shoulder. “I don’t see how you have any right to come here.” She added.

“Ah, Sarah! Are you really that unhappy to see me? I should think you’d be ecstatic. Isn’t it one of your earth sayings that says, ‘Absence makes the heart grow fonder’?” He asked, taking her pale hand in. “It has been twelve years, Sarah.” He enlightened her, “I should say that by now you should be ripping my clothes off.” Jareth flashed her a playful, toothy grin.

Sarah saw a glimmer of something else in his eyes, but chose to ignore it. “Jareth, this is the last time I ask you. What do I have to do with this?”

Jareth let out a testy sigh. “Fine, you want to skip right to business? I just figured when someone you know is at stake, you wouldn’t want to leave their future in the hands of these mortals.” Jareth was interrupted by Angel’s snorting and he turned to see him staring at the ceiling with fascination, trying to whistle.

“Who do you have?” Sarah asked, her eyebrows weaving with confusion.

“Well, I actually got seven this time around, but I believe you know only Buffy Summers, Tara Michel and Willow Rosenburg.” Jareth told her, mockingly.

Sarah looked at him with disbelief. “How did you get them?” She asked, not allowing herself to believe the trickster.

“Actually, Buffy was the one who wished them away.” The Goblin King said.

Cordelia let out a very un-lady like snort. “It figures.” She whispered. Louder, she said. “Look, as heart-warming as this reunion is, I just want to get on with the maze.”

Sarah stared at the girl with astonishment and admiration. Anyone who could question The Goblin King without batting an eye deserved respect. “Are you coming?” Jareth asked her expectantly. She nodded yes, reluctantly. Jareth rubbed his hands together, “Good, let’s go.”

Suddenly, they were outside, twilight on the horizon. Instinctively, Angel gasped, dropping to the ground. Even though some skin remained uncovered, nothing happened. He didn’t begin to steam or burst into flames. Cordelia looked a bit worried, but both Jareth and Sarah were staring at him as if he’d grown an extra head.

Cordelia offered him a hand, which he took cautiously. “If you all are finished, I might tell you the rules of the game.” Jareth said with humour in his voice. When they looked at him awaiting his response, he began, “You have thirteen hours to get to my castle at the centre of the Labyrinth before your friends become servants in my kingdom forever. Good luck.” He turned to leave, then glanced back, “Oh, and Sarah? Things have changed since you were last here. I doubt you’ll still find it a ‘piece of cake’.” He told her. Then, he faded out of sight.

“Oh, look, Angel, a guy more cryptic than you.” Cordelia chortled when the vampire shot her an evil glare, then she turned to Sarah and asked, “You’ve done this before?”

“Yeah, when I was fifteen, I asked that my brother be taken away. I didn’t realise that it would work, but it did. I had to solve the Labyrinth before I could save him.” She nodded ruefully. “I doubt saying the words right now would do any good.”

“What words?” they asked, interested.

“The words to go back home.”

“Well say them, just in case.” Cordelia told her, as if it were obvious she should have already done so.

Sarah paused, then said, “You have no power over me.” There was a pregnant silence. Nothing happened. “Well, let’s start.”

* * * *

Buffy woke up first, feeling rather groggy. She refused to open her eyes, instead, she felt around her until her fingers brushed leather. “Spike.” She whispered. “Wake up.” She murmured to him. “Come on.”

Slowly, she heard him start to stir and she rubbed her eyes and let them flutter open. Her fiancé was doing the same. “Slayer?” He asked.

“Yes, lover?” She asked, brushing her fingers over his face.

“Why the hell did you say those words?” He demanded softly. Buffy grinned.

“Sorry.” She said sheepishly. “You forgive me?” Spike nodded slowly, pulling her down for a kiss.

They broke apart when the heard Xander groaning. “Don’t you guys ever give it a rest.” He took a second to absorb their surroundings. “Where’s Cordelia?”

“That’s a good question.” Spike replied, not seeing the annoying brunette anywhere. “But the better one is ‘where the hell are we’ don’t you think?”

Everyone else, excluding Anya, was beginning to stir, rubbing sleep from their eyes and staring at the unbelievable room they were being held in. It reminded Buffy of an ancient castle. The walls and floors were made of cold stone, but large tapestries and intricate rugs covered much of the open space. The room was furnished with a large, four-post bed topped with lush, fine material and, a large, redwood dresser. The only other content was a large fireplace that was roaring with warmth.

A single, small window was on the far wall and early sunlight was seeping in. For the first time, Buffy noticed Spike was bathed in the soft morning light and she let out a small gasp. Carefully, she placed her hand on his face, which was still as cool as marble. “Spike, the sunlight. It’s not hurting you.”

The vampire looked towards the window and realised she was right. For the first time in two hundred and twelve years, Spike was completely immersed in the sun’s rays. He let out a yelp of surprise and happiness, the jumped to his feet, pulling Buffy to hers as well. He began to dance around the large room, laughing the entire time and his lover couldn’t help but join in.

Their friends simply ignored them and began to look for means of escape, since no door could be found. They began to lift rugs and wall hangings, looking for secret or trap doors. None were to be found. “Oh, this is just great.” Xander moaned sarcastically.

A glimmering light began to form in the corner of the room, becoming solid to make the outline of a man. Before them stood the man who had been their substitute teacher. The only difference between now and then was how incredibly awe-inspiring he looked. On his feet, he wore black boots that rose to mid thigh that blended almost perfectly with the tight, black leggings he wore. Black seemed to be his colour as he was also wearing a loose flowing blouse of the same hue which contrasted dramatically with his creamy, pale skin. His long, white-blonde hair was unrestrained now and was wildly framing his drastically bold makeup job. To complete the ensamble, he wore black gloves on his long fingers and a gold pendant around his neck that fell on his uncovered chest.

“Hello, Miss Summers. How are you feeling?” He asked pleasantly.

“Oh, me, I’m just fine. I take it you’re not a drama teacher, eh?” Buffy answered. “In fact, I bet you’re the King of the Goblins. What’s your name again? Jaywalk?”

Jareth smiled at her playful nature. “It’s Jareth, and yes, I am he. I’m afraid you brought this exile upon yourself by saying the incantation.”

“I told you not to say that.” Giles murmured under his breath. Louder, he asked, “I suppose that saying this was all a big mix-up won’t get us home?”

“I’m sorry, no.” He replied in an amused tone. Buffy was out of Spike’s arms and straddling the surprised Goblin King in under two seconds. She held the stake, which she kept hidden in her garter, to his heart, “Then, maybe this will convince you to let us go, eh, Ben and Jerry?”

“It’s Jareth.” He growled and tried to move the puny human off him only to find she was too strong. Once he realised his struggling was getting him nowhere he sighed, and with a put upon tone of voice, said, “Perhaps, if you remove yourself, I can offer you an ultimatum.”

Buffy thought about his proposal for a second, turning to her friends for their opinion. “Ah, just kill ‘em, Slayer. The bloke kidnapped us.” Spike gave his lover his two cents.

“I think I’ll agree with Deadboy Junior.” Xander added. “A little blood, a little gore, makes Buffy more than Spike’s…”

“Stop that rhyme right there, Xander.” Spike warned with a snarl.

“Great,” Buffy bemoaned, “I’ve got two blood-thirsty males on my hands.”

The Slayer glanced at Willow and Tara, who were hugging each other tightly. “I don’t think killing him is a good idea.” The mild redhead answered.

Suddenly, Anianka arose with a start. “Buffy! I warned you not to say those words.” She cried in distress. She stood on wobbly legs and walked over to where The King of Goblins was being pinned to the floor.

“Hey, Jareth.” She murmured, brushing a surprised Buffy aside.

“Thank you.” The prone figure replied, brushing aside Anya’s proffered hand. He took a long look at the woman who had removed Buffy. “Have we met before?” Jareth asked, then an expression of awareness washed over him. “You’re Anianka, aren’t you? That delightful she-demon who runs around helping scorned women.”

“I guess you could say that. We met at your brother’s New Millennium party, remember?” She supplied for his memory.

“Oh, yes, indeed. As I recall, you were rather the life of the party. Though, from what I’ve heard, my mother forced me into bed before your real performance got started.” The King stated mischievously.

As the blood crept into Anya’s cheeks, Xander strode over to where they stood and placed a possessive arm around his girlfriend. “What are you doing here?” Jareth asked, paying no attention to Xander.

“He,” She pointed an accusing finger at Giles, “Crushed my amulet and forced me to be mortal.”

Jareth gave her a sympathetic look and grabbed his own charm in a protective gesture. “How terrible.” He whispered, wholeheartedly. “Why ever didn’t you call upon me? I could have restored some of your magick.”

“Well, I went to the elders and…” For the third time that evening, she was cut off by Buffy.

“I’m so happy that you two have been reunited, but as I recall, Mr. Qui-gon Jinn here offered us an ultimate makeover.”

Spike let out a small snicker, “That’s ultimatum, pet.” Buffy let out a warning growl. He held up his hands in submission, but the grin on his face when he told her he was sorry led her to believe he wasn’t.

Jareth crossed his arms regally and waited for the occupants of the room to stop their bickering before he continued. “Two of your friends, Cordelia and Angel, have took it upon themselves to solve the Labyrinth and liberate you. If they succeed within thirteen hours, you go free.”

“Okay, correct me if I’m wrong, but that doesn’t sound like a ultimatum, bastard.” Spike said.

“I believe I’m siding with Spike. To suggest an ultimatum most likely requires you to offer us another course of action.” Giles piped up.

“What I was going to suggest was this. I shall allow four of you to try your own hand at the Labyrinth, while I keep the other three for insurance. If you succeed in either finding your way to the beginning or finding your friends, you shall all go free.”

Buffy eyed him suspiciously. “What’s in it for you?”

In reply, all the light in the room seemed to collect on Jareth’s fingertips, forming into a glimmering crystal ball. He began to weave elaborate patterns with it, between his hands and fingers, until a picture began to take shape inside. Then he released it so it could float to the small gathering of friends.

At first the picture was Angel his arm around Cordelia, wandering through moss and lichen covered walls that twisted and turned. Then, the scene moved forward and you could see another person was with them. She had long, brown hair, smooth pale skin… “Sarah.” Buffy gasped. “What’s she doing here?”

Jareth’s lips curled in a Cheshire Cat smile, drawling the crystal back to his hand. “Sarah is what I get out of all this.” He paused, “Do you accept my deal?”

“I won’t let you keep Sarah against her will.” Buffy replied.

“Oh, believe me.” Jareth said softly, a hint of a smile in his voice, “When I’m through with her, she’ll be begging to stay.”

Buffy shuddered at his tone, and wondered at what he meant by those words, but she pushed aside those thoughts till later. She would ask her drama teacher the next time she saw her what the King of Goblins wanted with her.

* * * *

Cordelia let out an exclamation of frustration, kicking the ground in front of her. “Where’s Buffy when you need her?” She shouted, not that it did any good. “Which reminds me, how do you know Buffy?” She asked Sarah.

“She’s a student of mine. I teach Drama.” Sarah answered, running her fingertips along the walls, looking for the first opening. “Ah, here we go.” She said, walking strait towards a stone wall.

“Uh, that’s just solid wall.” Angel thought he might inform her, before she bumped her head. Still, she ignored him and somehow, stepped right into a passage that was concealed from the naked eye.

“Come on.” She beckoned, “Your friends don’t have much time.” Cautiously, they followed.

* * * *

Buffy, Spike, Willow and Tara were busy on their end of the maze. Willow stared in awe at the tall walls towering on either side of them. “Buffy, do you think you could jump up and find your way from up there?” Tara asked, turning to the young Slayer.

“I think that would be cheating, Jareth might get angry.” Buffy responded.

Willow snorted, then tried to cover up her very un-lady like sound. “Sorry, but, since when have you followed the rules?”

Buffy tried to feign hurt, but couldn’t quite manage it. “You’re right.” She admitted sheepishly. “Let’s see if it’ll work.” She crouched down low, her entire body coiling with energy. Then she sprung up, launching herself high into the air. Apparently, it wasn’t high enough. She tried again and again, but was never high enough.

“Maybe Jareth’s using magick to keep you from reaching the top.” Willow suggested.

“That prick.” Buffy muttered. Louder, she said, “Come on. We don’t have much time and I don’t fancy spending the rest of my life as a goblin.”

“Slayer.” Spike called to her. “We might split up.” He suggested, lighting up a cigarette. “We’d have more of a chance to find Cordelia and poof boy.”

“Actually, as much as I hate to admit it, that’s a good idea.” Buffy told him.

“Good, I’m on your team.” Spike declared, slipping his hand into hers. “See you two children later!”

Once Tara and Willow disappeared around a corner, Spike pulled his fiancée close to his body. “Spiiiike…” Buffy murmured, “Why do I have the feeling that you plan had more to do with getting me to yourself than finding Angel and Cordy.”

Spike didn’t even attempt to look innocent. “Probably because that’s what it had to do with.” He whispered, lowering his lips onto hers in a smothering kiss.

“Do remember dear, I do have to breathe.” She told him when he finally released her.

“Details, details, my love.” He began nipping at her neck, clouding her mind and impairing her judgement as he went. “I don’t think they’ll notice us missing for a few minutes, do you?” Helplessly, Buffy shook her head.

* * * *

Cordelia was lounging tiredly against Angel since she refused to lean against any of the dank, dirty surfaces in the labyrinth. “This is ridiculous. We’re never going to reach the centre of this place.”

“I wouldn’t say that, little lady, you just need some help.” A new, distorted voice advised.

Sarah jumped to her feet and squealed with delight, “Hoggle!” She threw her arms around the small, ugly creature.

“I just found out you was here and I had to see ya. Ludo, Sir Diadems and Ambrosia are on their way. I figured we could help, just like last time.” The troll told her.

Sarah smiled gratefully. “Thank you, Hoggle. Meet my friends, this is Wesley, Angel and Cordelia. Their friends are trapped in the castle.”

“Well then, what’s you doin here?” Hoggle asked, in a confused tone.

“They’re my friends too. Some of them anyway. Besides, no one deserves to be kept here.” Sarah told him solemnly.

“Sarah, I’m surprised at you.” Jareth said, in a condescending manner. He appeared just after his voice sounded through the corridor. He stood only a few feet away, leaning on the wall. “I always thought the Labyrinth was the world of your dreams.”

“Was, Jareth.” She replied coolly. “When I was a child and before I met you.”

Jareth tisked at her tone of voice. “And you, Hogbird. What are you doing here? Didn’t you learn your lesson the last time you helped dear Sarah?”

“I ain’t scared of you, Jareth. I’m gonna help my friend.” Hoggle replied, standing his ground, though there was a hint of fear in his eyes.

Jareth looked him up and down, seeming pleased with the response. “Very well, Haggle. As you please. Just don’t expect me to help you when you find yourself dangling above the Bog of Eternal Stench.”

Hoggle merely rolled his eyes. “Why are you here, Jareth? Other than to annoy us?” Sarah asked.

“As I mentioned before, I’ve made some changes in the Labyrinth. For starters, I no longer allow you to simply run into puzzles, I create them for you. So, here is your first.” He formed an elegant crystal on his fingertips and let it slip to the ground, exploding into thousands of shards. When the debris cleared, Jareth had vanished.

In his place, there were two doors, both labelled in a language none of them knew. Not even Angel, which worried Cordelia a slight bit. One had a smooth marble plate to be pushed in with, while the other had a delicate, curving handle to be pulled out with. Sarah fingered the intricate letter without realising it.

"Which one?" She asked softly, contemplating the delicate words.

Frustrated, Cordelia strode over to the first door, pushing it in and marching through. Shrugging, the others followed, not wanting to waste time. They entered a small, square room and the door slammed shut behind them. "That wasn't a smart thing to do." A voice echoed through the room. And then water began to seep through the walls, slowly filling the chamber.

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That's it for now. I'll be adding some soon, don't worry!