Okay, this insane idea was thought up by Dee. So blame her. I only helped her bring it to life through writing. *g* Enjoy and comment!! Or we'll write another one! lol

Disclaimer: We have no control over our actions so we take no blame for them. *g* And if that doesn't work, the X-Files and the Labyrinth belong to their respective parties, we only borrowed them for a bit. The listians were used and we pity them now.(please note: if we did own this, this would be on tv not here. Thank you!)
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UFOs, Little Grey Men and a Labyrinth
Written by Jade and Dee
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 

J.Edgar Hoover Building

Tuesday, 12:00pm

It was high noon, and the sun shone full in the spring sky. Birds were in flights along with commuter jets over the busy city of Washington DC, and jackets were left behind in the warm sunlight. The mood was generally happy out in the air, but down in a dusty basement office of the J. Edgar Hoover Building, it was another story completely.

"Look at these." The red-head blinked as the file folders flew into her lap, making her nose wrinkle at the dust, and toppling a pile of papers that were stacked next to her on the messy desk that belonged to her partner.

Idly rubbing the bridge of her nose, she decided it was too early to deal with a new case, especially since the paperwork wasn't even finished from their last one. Turning her attention to her throbbing temples, she wondered when he had the time to even find a new case-file. Her head and her feet still ached from their last trek into mania, and her tan pumps were hurting her as much as his incessant happy whistling. With a final sigh, she decided that when she finally killed Mulder, she would make it look like an X-File and give some other sap a good read.

Mulder, far from being as stoic as his partner, was rummaging through his extensive library of books, while tearing chunks off of a bagel. Finding the book he wanted amongst the clutter, he turned his attentions back to his partner, prepared for her "look of death".

"How is this an X-File, Mulder?" she asked, her voice cynical as she leafed through the missing children's reports. "Thousands of kids disappear each day, Mulder, and siblings do tell wild stories to cover up their feelings about it."

Sully looked up at her partner, and almost groaned as she saw the gleam in his eyes. He was excited, and in his case mood, and she knew she was in for a lecture.

"Disappearing and *being wished away* are two totally different animals, Scully." The somber look that flashed through his deep hazel eyes was caught by his partner, and she sensed his train of thought. He was thinking about his sister Samantha who had been abducted when he was a child.

"Mulder, you can't honestly believe that this can be considered a competent x-file," Scully replied, her lack of interest evident.

"Why not, Scully? There have been no arrests or leads in any case. In fact, there have been no traces left behind of the children other than the stories offered by their siblings." Mulder spoke, his attention elsewhere.

"What are you looking for Mulder?" she asked, watching him closely as he rummaged through a stack of file folders on his desk.

"This," he replied, pulling a single folder out and offering it to her, then continued. "Sarah Williams claims to have gotten her brother back from the Goblin King."

"Mulder, this is a psychiatric file. What does that have to do with this case?" she asked, looking over the file, a smirk on her face.

"They all claim the children were taken by said Goblin King," he said, indicating the file of Sarah's. "She knows what is really going on Scully, and I say we check it out."

"Why am I not surprised? Okay, say she is on the level, then why did her parents put her into psychiatric evaluation?" she asked, knowing what he was going to say already.

"Maybe because they feared the truth, Scully. They did have a baby boy to look after and maybe they thought she would just endanger him again. After all, she would have been the one to wish him away, right?" he asked, sitting in his chair and staring back at Scully. Putting his hands behind his head and entwining his fingers, a slight smile crossed his rugged face. "Admit it Scully."

"What?" she replied, caught off guard.

"That this case is interesting to you," he replied.

"Just because you are fool enough to believe in the tooth fairy, doesn't mean that I am so apt to jump at any shadow that crosses my path."

"Sure, but we are on the case," he replied, getting to his feet and grabbing his jacket.

"What? Already?" she stated, getting to her feet to follow him.

"Come on Scully, Crime doesn't take a holiday," he replied walking from the office.

"Why me?" she muttered, following her partner out of the office and down the hallway.

~~~~~~~~~

Tower Park Psychological Facility

Tuesday, 9:34 pm

Entering the electronic doors to psychiatric ward, Mulder immediately went to the front desk. Scully followed, not sure what they would find, but was certain it couldn't substantiate his claim.

"Hello there," Mulder acknowledged the receptionist, pulling his badge from his pocket and flashing it at her. "I'm Special Agent Mulder and this is Special Agent Scully. We're here to see a patient by the name of Sarah Williams," he stated coolly.

"Do you have an appointment?" she asked, eyeing them suspiciously.

"Ma'am, we're with the FBI. We are investigating a case and Miss Williams seems directly involved. We would appreciate any help you might give us on this matter." Scully replied pleasantly.

"One moment please," the receptionist responded, punching keys on her phone.

Mulder and Scully exchanged glances.

"Doctor, there are two agents here from the FBI and they wish to speak with Sarah," she spoke into the receiver, keeping her voice low and efficient. "Yes, doctor." she replied, then replaced the receiver once again.

Getting to her feet, she glanced back at the pair. "This way please," she stated, walking down the hallway. Coming to a door, she turned the knob and pushed it open slowly. "Sarah?" she called.

"Yeah?" came the voice from inside.

"You have visitors," the receptionist called.

"Just a second," Sarah replied back.

"Wait here, she'll be with you in a moment," she stated, walking back down the hall.

"Nice personality, don't you agree Scully?" Mulder mused.

Scully smiled slightly, shaking her head, but straightened up when the door opened before them. Standing there on the other side was a young girl. Long dark tresses that set off her innocent green eyes. A pleasant smile on her lips, she stepped back and motioned them inside.

"Thank you Miss Williams," Mulder said, stepping through the doorway.

"Sarah, please," she corrected amiably.

"Sarah," Mulder acknowledged. "I'm Special Agent Mulder and this is my partner, Special Agent Scully." Glancing around, he noticed that her room wasn't the standard patient room. In fact, it was more homey, with a natural ambiance.

"Why are you here?" she asked straight out.

"We are investigating a string of cases and my partner here thinks you are the key," Scully said, hiding her amusement with the whole situation.

"Me?" Sarah asked, surprised.

"Miss Williams, Sarah, what can you tell us of the Goblin King?" Mulder asked without hesitation.

Sarah was taken aback. Would she never be free from Jareth? She stared blankly back at Mulder, not sure if she wanted to divulge what she knew or not. Seems every time she had mentioned Jareth, she got nothing but trouble.

"Sarah? Is everything alright?" Scully asked.

"Yeah," she replied, her attention returning to where it belonged. "What could the FBI want with a children's fairy tale villain?" she asked, her voice calm and collected.

"I've read your file Sarah. You've claimed to come up face to face with him and win," Mulder said, his seriousness taking over.

"So? Why do you think I am in here?" she asked, a slight smile on her face.

"Protection maybe? You tell me?" Mulder pushed. "This isn't a normal patient's room. You have conveniences that the others don't."

"Sarah, we are only trying to help you," Scully offered.

"Help me? Were you there to help me get my brother back? Were you there to help me traverse the Labyrinth? Were you there when I had to confront that monster?" Sarah asked, her voice rising in anger. "No. And do you know why?"

Mulder shook his head, watching her closely.

"Because it seems to the ordinary world, that such villains and places don't exist," she stated, looking Mulder square in the eye. "Jareth is not one to be trifle with, Mr. Mulder."

"How do we find him? He does exist, doesn't he?" Mulder prodded, wanting the answers more than he realized.

Sarah got to her feet and walked to the window. Glancing out across the rooftops, she played with a necklace that hung around her neck. "Yes, he is very real," she whispered, her eyes not leaving the scenery in front of her.

"How do we find him?" Mulder asked.

"You merely have to wish someone away. Then he will come and give you a choice." she said, her voice distant.

"And how would one go about ‘wishing' someone away?" he asked, still insistent on knowing.

Sarah turned around to face him. "I won't tell you that," she stated firmly.

"Why?" Scully asked, still not convinced of any relevance.

"Because I will not subject someone else to Jareth's little games. I almost lost when I was there before," she stated, looking down at the floor.

"What happens when you lose?" Scully asked, watching Sarah's demeanor darken.

"Then Jareth takes all," she replied, glancing up and catching Scully's gaze.

Scully could see fear written across her eyes. Somehow she knew what Sarah was trying to say. Winner takes all. Jareth would have taken everything he could get, including Sarah. At the time she supposedly went through the ordeal of the Labyrinth, a mere fifteen year old girl against a grown man, in the end he would quite possibly have taken advantage of her both mentally and physically. Scully looked toward Mulder, not wanting to think about what might have happened.

"Sarah," Mulder began but she cut him off.

"It is far easier than you think, Mr. Mulder. I don't wish on anyone what I had to endure," she replied, her eyes flitting across the contents of her room. They landed on a red leather bound book, resting peacefully on her desk.

Mulder followed her gaze to see the book. Deciding it to be of value, he got to his feet to retrieve it, only to have Sarah grasp it and clutch it to her chest.

"This is mine, and I would appreciate you not messing with my things," she stated, her face full of fear.

"I only wanted to look at it, where is the harm in that?" he said, his tone soothing. "What's in the book Sarah?" he asked.

"Nothing of importance to you," she stated, her voice soft.

"Does that book contain the phrase to summon the Goblin King?" he asked, looking into the girl's eyes. She could see that he believed her, but only silence answered him. "Sarah?"

Sarah walked away from him and back to the window. His persistence would no doubt get him into trouble, and she didn’t want to be the cause. She could hear him talking softly to Scully, but paid it no heed. She didn’t ever want to see Jareth again, but for some odd reason, she knew she would.

“You said it was easier than we thought,” Scully mentioned. She saw Sarah turn around and acknowledge her. “What if we guessed?” she asked.

“You don’t know what you are going up against. Do you want to lose everything that matters to you?” Sarah whispered.

“There are children out there Sarah. Small children that never get the chance to grow up because of him. If we give up, he wins. It’s my job to stop him,” Mulder stated seriously.

“At what expense Mr. Mulder?” Sarah asked, her gaze shifting from Scully to him. “You lose, you’ll never come back,” she stated simply.

“I am not one to lose,” Mulder remarked.

“Neither is Jareth,” Sarah shot back.

“Please help us Sarah,” Scully asked softly. She wasn’t sure if she believed the story of such a man, but it did appear as though Sarah did wholeheartedly.

Sarah looked at Scully and sighed. She thought about all the children lost over the years and who was the cause. Slowly, she held her book out to her, hoping that they would heed her warnings about Jareth. She could have simply told them the words, but that wouldn’t have solved anything. That would have been too easy. If they wanted answers, they should be willing to search for them.

Scully took the red leather bound book from Sarah’s hand and had an odd sensation fill her. Almost as though she were accepting a curse. Pushing that thought from her mind, she opened the book to see pages of words. “Where are they?” she asked, flipping through page upon page of black lettering.

“You’ll have to find that on your own,” Sarah replied, watching Scully hand the book to Mulder. She watched him open the book and read from the first page. She got the feeling that he wouldn’t just let the opportunity slip through his fingers. “There are two sets of words you must know if you are to attempt this. The ones to wish away, and the ones you must confront Jareth with. But if you can’t make it to the center of the Labyrinth in time, the second set will do you no good.”

Mulder flipped to the end and found a phrase that stuck out. “Through dangers untold and hardships unnumbered,”he began, glancing up at Sarah briefly to see her staring back, fear in her eyes. “You have no power over me. Seems simple enough,” Mulder commented, noting it to memory just in case. Returning to the beginning, he picked up reading where he left off, soon coming across the phrase Sarah had tried so desperately to hide. With a smile, he looked up at Scully then to Sarah. “You can’t be serious?”

Sarah didn’t reply. She sat down and wished that they had never darkened her doorstep, and regretted handing over her book.

“Sarah? Are you alright?” Scully asked softly, noticing Sarah’s paling face.

“Come on Sarah, these can’t be the words you used to wish your brother away. They’re too easy,” Mulder commented, looking them over with amusement. “I, for one, am a believer in the ancient arts. I have studied many facts surrounding occult activities, in which many use special words or phrases that they claim do their bidding. I see magic words as merely a way to liven up an illusion, though some may be on the level. But even I have my doubts about magic words.”

“You do Mulder?” Scully asked, her amusement showing. “Since when?”

“Oh come on Scully. Everyone has tried magic at one time in their life, whether they are young or old. I’m sure you’ve heard them. Presto, Open Sesame among a long list of words that any magician has used to cover up their illusion. Abracadabra never opened any doors for me, so why should something simple like, I wish the goblins would come and take you away, right now work?” Mulder asked.

Suddenly, without warning, the lights flickered and died down. A strange anomaly happened as Mulder witness a wind whipping through Sarah’s room. He might not have found that odd had he not seen an owl flying about the room. “Scully?” he asked, somehow knowing there would be no reply.

“She’s gone Mr. Mulder. I warned you, but you didn’t listen,” Sarah replied, getting to her feet. Her hair flew around her face until the wind abruptly stopped. There before them stood Jareth, the Goblin King, in all his glory. Sarah took a step back, still afraid of him after all this time.

“Aren’t you going to say hello my dear?” Jareth scoffed, looking languidly at Sarah.

Mulder eyed him carefully. “What have you done with my partner?” he asked, moving his hand slowly toward his gun.

“Why just what you asked, Fox. My, what a name that is!” he chuckled.

Mulder pulled his gun from the holster and leveled it at Jareth. “Where is she?” he asked again.

Jareth lost his humor and with a flick of his wrist, he sent Mulder’s gun flying back to strike the wall and land on the ground with a thud. Jareth stared him down, a smug smile on his face. “Where did you think she would go?” Jareth toyed.

Mulder glanced at Sarah. He could tell that this man frightened her more than she would let on. Looking back at Jareth, Mulder took in his appearance. The black boots over the grey tights that he was sure women would swoon over. The black waistcoat that he wore over his white shirt, changed colors with Jareth’s movements. He could see the King was amused, but he had no time for amusement. Scully would undoubtedly blame him for this.

“I shall give you the choice of trying to save your beautiful redheaded friend, or...” Jareth trailed off, producing a crystal on his fingertips. “Perhaps you’d like to have a chance at your dreams,” he finished, the smile on his face widening as Mulder peered into the crystal with wide eyes.

“Samantha,” Mulder breathed, gazing within the swirling depths of the crystal. There was his sister, alive and happy.

“Mulder don’t,” Sarah whispered, grasping his arm and pulling him away from the enticing image. “It’s just a trick. Nothing is ever as it seems. You can’t forget Agent Scully,” Sarah stated, looking into his eyes to see the vaguest glimmer of hope.

Mulder turned to face Jareth. “No deal,” he replied, unsure of what he just got himself into.

“So be it,” Jareth answered.

Mulder found himself standing on the top of a windswept hill overlooking a gigantic maze. Looking it over for some clue as to how to solve it, the walls changed right before his eyes. Setting his jaw, he pulled a bag of sunflower seeds from his inside pocket. “So this is the so-called Labyrinth?”

“So called?” Jareth questioned, raising a stern brow. Crossing his arms across his chest, Jareth stared at his advisary. “You have thirteen hours in which to solve the Labyrinth...”

“Jareth,” Mulder interrupted. “A man of your greatness and apparent power gives me such a limited time to solve this intricate maze. You can’t be thinking that someone of my lowliness could actually come close in say twenty four hours. It has been found in many ancient tribes that the day has an actual balance, out of which comes control. Many ancient religions base their entire existence on a day.”

“Shut up!” Jareth roared, confused by all the double talk. “Twenty four hours then, not that it will help you any,” Jareth added haughtily, his arrogance hanging thick in the air.

“Thank you, oh great one,” Mulder added, pouring it on thick.

Jareth waved his hand and disappeared from sight. “Solve my Labyrinth, or your partner shall be mine forever...” Jareth’s voice carried through the air, his smugness clinging to every word.

Mulder looked over the Labyrinth one last time, before descending the hill toward the massive wall surrounding it.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Scully looked around slowly, faced with the reality that she was no longer where she should have been. The little creatures that surrounded her, littered the floor with garbage and ran back and forth for no apparent reason. ‘An odd place this is,’ she thought to herself, her eyes taking in everything they could.

“Well hello there my dear,” a smooth accented voice came from behind her.

Scully dreaded who she know would be there. Slowly turning around, she found herself faced with a man who could only be the Goblin King. Logic slowly slipping through her fingers, she studied the man before her. Though he wasn’t anything special to her, she was sure that many a woman would swoon over his attire. Clearing her throat, she turned her attention to the more serious situation at hand. What exactly her role was in all of this.

“And you are?” she asked, knowing what he would say already.

“I am Jareth, the Goblin King and master of the Labyrinth,” he grinned. “Soon to be master of you as well my lovely.”

Scully shook her head. “I don’t think so,” she replied, a sudden smirk lighting her features as she laughed softly.

Jareth took a step closer, his arrogance seeping into her senses. “I have no doubt that your incompetent fool of a partner will loose this game,” he sneered, then smiled brazenly at her.

“You’re arrogance is astounding. Did you have to practice that?” she mused, wondering what ever possessed Mulder to throw her into such a situation.

“Ah,” he replied, his smile widening. “You should make a fine conquest.”

“Me? Your conquest?” she laughed again. “I seriously doubt that sir, now if you would kindly stand aside and let me pass. I have to get back to kill my partner.”

Jareth’s expression turned serious. “You apparently don’t see your position in this matter. If he loses, you are mine,” Jareth stated seriously, emphasizing ‘mine’. With a flick of his wrist, Scully disappeared from his sight only to reappear in the dungeon.

“Dammit Mulder, you better get me out of this!” she exclaimed into the air. She couldn’t believe the position she was in. Her mind wandered back to the discussion with Sarah. Deep down Sarah was afraid of this man and she knew that she should be too, but for some odd reason she wasn’t.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Mulder examined the huge wall standing between him and the Labyrinth. Running his hand along the rough surface, he wondered how he was going to get through it and save Scully from the King. His fingers found a crevice as he moved them along, knowing what he found to be a door. Now his only problem was how to get it open. Pulling vines away from the hidden door, he stared in awe at the size of it, standing there towering above him.

“How’s you gonna gets in?” a voice startled him from behind.

Mulder spun around quickly to see a short little man standing there staring back at him, a smirk lighting his features. Glancing around slowly, Mulder couldn’t see how the little guy could sneak up on him so easily. He should have seen him coming.

“Nothing is what it seems in this place,” the little man said, his smirk never dwindling.

“Is that so?” Mulder asked, his voice cool. “And how long have you resided here, sir?” he continued, needing to get all the information he could.

“What?” the little man replied.

“What’s your name?” Mulder asked, pulling a small pad of paper from his pocket. Flipping it open, he retrieved a pen and held it ready for any replies he could use later. Looking the little man over, he noted a small bag hanging at his side. “What are those?” he indicated the bag.

“You’re a nosey one, aren’t cha?” he asked, taken aback with all the questions. “I’m Hoggle!” he blurted out, not wanting the same pronunciation trouble like last time.

“Well, Hoggle, can I ask you a question?” Mulder replied, his eyes staring Hoggle down.

“Don’t ‘cha think you’ve asked enough?” Hoggle shot back, stepping toward the wall. Pulling a can from behind him, he sprayed a small flying creature, right before Mulder’s eyes.

“You realize that’s murder,” Mulder stated, looking at the fallen body lying on the ground.

“Gah,” Hoggle threw his hands in the air. “Ask yer question and be gone with ‘cha.”

“Just tell me how I get into the Labyrinth, and I’ll trouble you no further,” Mulder stated, looking back toward the door. Without prior warning, the door began to creak as it made it’s way across the ground pushing the soil from it’s path. Fog rolled out thick and cool through the opening making the Labyrinth seem all the more unreal. Turning around, he noticed Hoggle was no longer there. Looking all around, Mulder suspiciously believed he just disappeared into thin air.

Looking back to the situation at hand, he walked through the door and a sudden coldness hit him, chilling him to the bone. Glancing left then right, he couldn’t see a visible difference but something was calling to him as he stepped to the right. Walking with a sense of purpose down the hallway, Mulder watched both sides for some significant sign of change, only to be confronted with the same stone wall that seemed to stretch on for infinity.

“Nothing is as it seems,” he muttered, dragging his hand along the inside wall, waiting with some vague hope that they were all right and a doorway would present itself soon. His hand crossed a plant that moved beneath his touch. Pulling his hand away, he found eyes staring back at him and soft murmurs he couldn’t quite distinguish. Taking a step back, Mulder tripped and fell back to hit the wall behind him with a thud.

“What the hell was that?” he spoke, watching the eyes turn and look directly at him. Getting to his feet, he neared the plant with interest. Watching it curiously, he extended his hand to lean against the wall, only to have it pass through open space. Peering through the newest opening, he looked back to the lichen and smirked. “Thanks fella’s.”

Mulder walked away as the lichen watched his fading form until he disappeared from their sight. Their mumbles trailed after him until they lost interest and went back to examining their surroundings, wondering simply why the ground was that pale shade of grey.

Walking down the stone path, Mulder kept his eyes open for any trace of foul play by Jareth. Though he had talked his way into more time, Mulder had the sneaky suspicion that he would need every minute of it. Examining the sky for some hint of the ways to solve this puzzle, his mind wandered to think of just what he had done. So many times he had put her life in danger, and yet she stood by him all the same, and somehow they made it through. Would they make it through this one?

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Scully leaned against the wall, her eyes slowly adjusting to the dim light. She could hear water dripping from somewhere and sounds of scraping against stone. She tried not to think of what could be behind the scraping, knowing that it was most likely a rodent of some kind. Her breathing kept the silence at bay as she pondered her situation. She was definitely in the wrong place, and hoped she wouldn’t be there at the wrong time, when Jareth would come for her.

Sighing softly, she pushed off the wall and walked toward the heavy wooden door. Peering through the bars, she saw a small form sitting on the floor across the way and a glimmer of hope sparked to life. Her hand slipped through the bars easily, as she tried to find her voice.

“You there!” she called, hitting her palm against the door.

The little goblin startled awake, blinking it’s wide eyes back at her in surprise. Groaning, it slowly got to it’s feet, and began to walk away in the hopes of finding somewhere quieter to finish his nap.

“Wait a minute! Stop right there,” she called out to deaf ears. She somehow knew that there wasn’t anyone that would help her out of this mess, but Mulder. “Mulder, where are you?” she whisphered.

Once the goblin disappeared and she was faced with silence once again, Scully pulled her hand back in and wrapped her arms around herself in comfort. Reaching up to the necklace that hung around her neck, her fingers captured the cross and she tried to hold onto her faith. She wanted so much to believe that everything would be alright, but deep down, she wasn’t so sure. Her very existence hung in the balance of Mulder’s abilities.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Hours and many steps later, Mulder found himself entering a new section of the Labyrinth. The green hedges were trimmed to perfection and he noted that far off in the distance sat the castle, towers spiraling toward the sky. Glancing around to see everything the same as it was before, he walked forward with determination.

Mulder stopped short as the path he was following suddenly wasn’t there anymore. Right before his very eyes the Labyrinth morphed, the features of the elegant maze altering with time. “What a day I’m having,” Mulder stated, shaking his head. What he thought would be a simple task has now turned into fight for survival. He had to get to that castle, and his time was trickling away as he stood there contemplating everything. He had no time to waste.

Thinking over the many puzzles and enigmatic things he had studied, he was certain that he could unravel this mystery. All he had to do was take what characteristics he already knew of this place and match them with one of those he’s studied over the years. He was bound to find a match in at least one of them.

Walking steadily along, he watched the surroundings closely, noting any sudden changes now that might change his way of thinking. Before he knew it, he entered into a small open space where a chair sat tall against the background of green. Sitting upon it, one leg draped over the arm leisurely, was a blonde girl snoozing the day away.

Mulder looked over the scene for any clues to the identity of this person. Walking closer, he inspected her appearance but took a step back when she mumbled something under her breath as her eyes slowly opened to look back at him. Stretching her arms, she attempted to sit up when she noticed where she was.

“What the-?” she started, ignoring the man standing in front of her. “How the hell did I get here?!” she exclaimed, then quieted when she kicked over a bottle to send it rolling toward Mulder’s feet. “And just who might you be?” she flashed an evil grin at him, now acknowledging she was not alone.

“I’m Special Agent Mulder of the FBI,” he began but stopped at her laughter.

“FBI? Here?” she laughed.

“What’s so funny?” he asked, then continued when she didn’t reply. “You are?” he questioned.

“Essy. I’m a Sith Lord, and soon you will do my bidding,” she stated, her voice cool as stone.

“Really?” Mulder mocked. “Well great and mighty Sith Lord, what can you tell me of the Goblin King?” he asked.

“Depends, what do you want to know?” she shot back, starting to walk away through the passages with Mulder tagging along behind.

“Do you answer every question with a question?” he mused.

“No, but I can if you like,” she replied, keeping her pace.

“Does this Jareth have any family? Friends?” Mulder asked, keeping in step with her.

“Ha!” she burst out, laughing again. “You sure don’t have a clue about Jareth, do you? What did you say your name was again?”

“Mulder,” he replied.

“Well, Mulder, seems as though you have a problem,” she shot back. “I’m not ticking him off. I wind up waking up in the oddest places when I do. Who knows where it might be next time?”

“So Jareth left you there?” he inquired, pulling out his little notepad once again.

“Yep,” she replied, grabbing the paper from his hand and tossing it behind them. “Use the force Mulder, follow your instincts. And if that doesn’t work, you could give yourself to the dark side,” she grinned. “Yes, your anger could make you strong.”

“The dark side?” he replied, amusement in his voice.

Essy stopped suddenly. Her features darkening at his last words. “I would strike you down if Jareth hadn’t taken my saber from me. Better watch your back Mulder,” she grinned evilly. “I am a Master of the dark side of the force. I do bad things, and I enjoy it.”

This was certainly the strangest place he had ever been. And there are people who say the X-Files are strange, they should come here for a few hours. Loosening his tie, he had the feeling it was going to be one of the longest twenty-four hours he had ever witnessed.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Jareth watched Mulder’s progress with aggravation. “Damn listians,” he muttered, the image of Essy leading Mulder closer to his castle making his blood boil. “They cause me nothing but trouble.”

Watching the images, a wicked smile crossed his features. Within moments, Mulder walked alone and Essy stood in front of him. “What is the meaning of this?” he asked, showing her the crystal in his hand.

“You like to play with your balls?” Essy snickered. “Really Jareth, it’s your own fault for leaving me out there,” she added, her blue eyes flickering with a hint of malevolence.

“Get out,” he stated firmly, waving his hand at her. “Get back to the city and prepare for him.” Watching Essy leave, he gave thought to how he could slow this enemy of his down.

Jareth walked to the window and looked out. All his sanity had flown out the window when he allowed a few of his listians to take up residence beyond the castle walls. ‘His Listians,’ he smirked, though he knew half of them showed him no loyalty, they were still his. The thought eased his troubled mind as he thought of who he should send out into battle against the underhanded Mulder. Smiling he had just the person for the job.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Mulder walked along the pathway, looking for any sign of Essy’s disappearance when out of the blue, he heard soft talking up ahead. Reaching for his gun that wasn’t there, he mulled over his decision of seeking out the Goblin King as he walked slowly toward the unknown voice.

Glancing around the corner he saw a young woman with reddish brown hair sitting cross legged on the ground with a pair of headphones on. Bopping to the music, her eyes closed, she sung along with the lyrics completely oblivious to her visitor.

An eye sliding open, she caught a glimpse of the stranger standing there staring back at her and jumped to her feet. “Where did you bloody come from?” she shrieked, her British accent thick. Calming a bit she studied him, scrutinizing every last detail down to the color of his eyes. “Well now, what’s a nice bloke like you doing here?” she asked softly, batting her eyelashes at him.

“I’m special Agent Mulder with the FBI and I’m on my way to the castle supposedly. What can you tell me of the King?” he asked, noting her smile.

“What would you like to know?” she purred softly, taking a step closer. “How about the fact that he’s a sex manic? Why are you going there anyway? You could stay right here with me, I’ll let you,” she offered.

“What did you say your name was again?” he asked, trying to change the subject.

“I didn’t, but you can call me Gemma sweetie,” she smiled back.

“Gemma,” he acknowledged, then continued. “Can you tell me how to get there? My partner is there and though she’s probably going to detest me for this...”

“She?” Gemma questioned.

“Special Agent Dana Scully,” he replied. “Your King has taken her and I have a limited amount of time to get there.”

“She’s toast,” Gemma retorted, shaking her head.

“That isn’t an option,” Mulder replied.

“So? You’re dealing with Jareth here handsome, and if she is his prize, then you’ll definitely lose if he has anything to say about it,” she stated.

“Gemma, what in the Underground do you think you’re doing?” a voice cut through the cool, brisk air.

“Nothing, I wasn’t doing a thing,” Gemma replied, watching the other close the distance between them.

“Get back to the city with you,” the girl replied, carefully eyeing Mulder. “And you sir have a labyrinth to solve.”

Mulder stared at the woman standing there. Her red hair shining in the light, she seemed to know what was going on. “And who might you be?” he asked, needing to know all he could.

“She’s the brat child of the King,” Gemma giggled, skipping off through the passages.

“I’m Kara,” she answered, glaring at the retreating form of Gemma. “Just you wait Gems, you’ll get yours!” she called after her.

“So you’re related to said, Goblin King?” he asked, watching her closely.

“So? You say that like it’s a bad thing,” she retorted, fascinated with his eyes. “And what if I am? Will that make you like me less?” she asked innocently, her eyes twinkling with mystery.

Mulder cracked a smile. “No, of course not,” he replied.

“You’ll get no help from me, so you can quit trying your charming smile out,” she retorted, turning to walk away.

“Wait, can’t you at least point me in the right direction?” he asked.

Kara looked back at him and smiled. He seemed too nice not to help, though her father would most definitely be unthrilled by her decision. Lifting her hand she pointed to the left. Within moments, she was gone as quickly as she had arrived, leaving Mulder alone once again.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Jareth stood outside the door to Scully’s prison, listening to her voice trying to rationalize the whole situation. Such a logical woman, one would wonder what could bring her here until they met her partner. Smiling, Jareth had a feeling that this woman would be his soon enough. Only time would tell, and he couldn’t wait until Mulder happened upon the city to find his listians.

Pulling the key from the holder on the wall, he pushed it into the age old lock, turning it with precision until the lock clicked loudly, causing Scully to jump from the sudden sound. Pushing the door open slowly, light filtered in illuminating the small room with the simplest of light.

Scully shielded her eyes from the sudden intrusion as she watched Jareth step into the room. Her eyes flitted across his form looking for some sign of weakness. Knowing she wouldn’t find one, she steadied herself and waited to see what would happen next.

“Hello my dear,” he grinned.

Scully didn’t reply. She wouldn’t give him the satisfaction of knowing how much she despised him. Certain that Mulder would come through for her, she held her tongue and held fast to her ideals. He would not break her.

Jareth took a step closer, his grin widening. “Come now, you aren’t going to ignore me forever, are you?” he mused.

“I won’t be here that long,” she retorted.

“Won’t you?” he shot back. Producing a crystal, he held it out to her, the image of Mulder wandering aimlessly through his labyrinth filled the orb. “Doesn’t look as though he’s making the best progress Dana.”

“You don’t know Mulder,” she shot back defiantly.

“Does it matter?” he grinned, tossing the crystal. Hitting the wall, the crystal shattered into a million pieces scattering into the far reaches of the room making Scully shriek as it flew against her. Jareth grasped her chin, making her look at him. “You will be mine,” he stated seriously.

Scully pulled away from him angrily. “How dare you!” she yelled, raising her hand to slap him, but was stopped before it ever began.

“I will not tolerate disrespect,” he stated, grasping her hand and pulling her flush against his body. “I could get quite use to this,” he mused, a wide grin crossing his features.

Scully pushed herself away, wiggling out of his grasp. “I’d rather die!” she bit out angrily.

“That can be arranged,” he replied, walking to the door and pulling it shut quickly behind him. “Far too easily my dear,” he mused, turning the key once again.

Scully, hearing the sound of the lock clicking once again, sank down to sit by the wall. Letting her head fall in her hands, she felt so alone and vulnerable. She didn’t want to accept the fact that Mulder might not make it. Shivering from the cold numbing at her limbs, she tried not to think of what the outcome would be to bear down on her if Mulder somehow didn’t make it.

Pushing the disturbing thoughts from her mind, Scully got to her feet once again, determined to find a way out of there. Scully moved through the dreary cell, and looked out her small barred window and into the hall beyond. The same goblin was keeping guard, a jug of something foul smelling laying beside his snoring form. Pressing her face into the bars, she strained her eyes, trying to see into the cell across from her. The Goblin King had an awfully large dungeon from what she could ascertain from her vantage point, and with his sunny demeanor she imagined it was needed often.

"Hey baby, come here often?" the voice from across the hall cracked, and Scully looked into light brown eyes that were obviously amused. 

"Who are you?" Scully asked, surprised by the sudden voice, and worried by a nagging voice that said, "She must be locked up for a reason."

"Poledra, the resident Domintrix of Death. You can call me Pol. Who are you?" the girl’s voice had a hint of the Texan drawl in it.

"Dana Scully."

"Welcome to the Asylum, what you in for?" the other girl laughed slightly.

Wishing for an instant she were up against another lake monster, serial killer or on another space craft sighting case rather than talking to the raving lunatic across the hall. "My partner... wished me away."

"Hooha! I should have figured, you don't look like the listian type. Let me guess, sedate work suit and pumps?"

"How did you know that?" Scully asked.

"I'm psychic, not." Poledra replied, laughing at her own joke before she continued. "I looked through the bars while the Royal Ass was talking to you."

"Aren't you locked in there?" Scully ventured, looking at the eyes through the bars. How could the girl have seen all the way into her cell without being closer? It wasn't possible.. not that this nightmare of a case wasn't already a complete flip of reality.

"Hells no, I come here for kicks. Nothing like a good smelly dungeon to get you appreciating living in this hole." Pol cackled again.

"If you can get out prove it." The girl was insane. Either that or she was having a brain hemorage and she was delusional. Absently touching the bridge of her nose, Scully let out her breath.

"Sure, sweetie." Pushing the door to the cell open, she walked across the hall and put her face about an inch from Scullys. "Now that's cozy."

Stepping back, Scully smiled slightly. "Can you get me out?"

"Of the dungeon?"

"Yes."

"Sure," Poledra grinned and stepped back, her long brown hair swinging with the movement of her body. Picking up a key that lay next to the goblins forgotten bottle, she slid it in the lock and pulled the door open. "Viola."

Walking out into the hall, she looked to her left and her right and then back at the tall girl who had freed her. "How do we get out of her?"

"I dunno."

Scully blinked. "What do you mean, you had to have gotten here somehow."

"Not really, sometimes I just wake up and BAM! I'm here." The girl shrugged nonchalantly, and walked over and sat in her well lit, and tastefuly furnished cell.

Scully’s mouth dropped open. Regaining her senses, her anger boiled. "Mulder I am going to kill you."

Scully looked at the woman in the cell. Glancing around the dismal surroundings, she wanted nothing more than to get out of there. Looking back, Poledra was gone. Shocked, she glanced in all directions, then back to the cell. “Hello?” she called, not sure of anything anymore.

Scully moved down the corridor silently, making sure not to wake the sleeping goblin as she stepped over him. Making her way up the steps, her body tense in anticipation of the unexpected, she jumped at the sound of a plate being dropped. Calming her nerves, she reached the top of the stairs and headed off to her right, leaving the sounds of dishes crashing and goblins yelling behind her.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Mulder walked along the stone path, his eyes watching carefully for any sudden movements. Only the sound of his steps kept the silence at bay as he followed the chosen path. Looking ahead, he saw a streak of color as someone or something ran past the crossing. Picking up his pace, he rounded the corner just in time to be bopped on the head with a plastic lightsaber.

“Oops, mesa sawwy,” the girl grinned. Her dark hair fell around her face as she looked at him.

“That’s okay,” he replied, rubbing the wacked spot. “Who are you? Another listian?” he inquired.

“Yep, mesa Ziggy. Mesa Jedi,” she answered, her grin still in place.

“Interesting language you have there Ziggy,” Mulder stated, studying her curiously.

“Yousa, strange man,” she replied, holding her saber in front of her.

“You think I’m strange? You’re the one talking like some creature from another world,” he mused.

“Watch it buddy. I am a Jedi, like my Master before me,” she stated seriously.

“Let me guess, the force right?” he asked, remembering his encounter with Essy.

“Yes, but I warn you not to underestimate my power,” she warned.

“Sure, then I suppose I should be wary of the Easter Bunny as well,” he replied.

Ziggy raised her saber and whacked him on the head again.

“Ow, what the hell was that for?” he asked, rubbing his temple.

“Just so you don’t forget,” she replied, then took off running in the opposite direction. “May the Force be with you!” she called back to him before disappearing around the corner.

“This place is nuts!” Mulder exclaimed.

Looking in all directions, wondering who or what he would encounter next, Mulder started walking again, hoping he was headed the right direction. It seemed as though he had been walking for days instead of mere minutes. Coming to a quick halt, Mulder let his eyes take in what he saw before him. A large body of water stood between him and the way to continue. Shaking his head, he couldn’t believe the day he was having. Threatened by a Sith Lord, drooled over then ordered around, last but not least, hit in the head not once, but twice by another labyrinthine frootloop. Where would it end?

Standing at the edge, he looked over the water trying to find some way across it. A noise from behind him caused him to spin around quickly. Not seeing anyone right away, he prepared himself for another wacky listian.

“Watch out!” a voice rang out just before a woman came flying at Mulder. Making contact with the unsuspecting visitor, Dee grinned as he fell backwards with a splash. Slowly getting to her feet, she rung out her wet clothes and wiped the water from her face. “Sorry,” she grinned, extending her hand to him.

Mulder grasped her hand and stood up, the water dripping from his form causing Dee to lick her lips. Smiling faintly, Mulder loosened his tie and pulled it from around his neck. Tossing it into the water, he shook his head. “There goes another one,” he said, looking back to Dee.

“Oh boy!” she exclaimed, a wicked grin crossing her features.

“What?” he asked, slightly confused.

Dee took a step closer, her grin widening. “Oh honey,” she started, walking her fingers up his wet chest, “wait until the Court finds you.”

“The Court?” he asked, watching her fingers pull his top button completely off. “Hey!” he remarked, taking a step away from her.

“Sorry,” Dee replied, then wrapped her arms around herself. “Sure is chilly, isn’t it?” she asked, rubbing her arms.

“Here,” Mulder removed his blazer and draped it around her shoulders. “It might be wet, but at least it’s something,” he added, looking up to see two more women nearing them. “Who are they?”

Dee looked up and her grin subsided. “Oh, that’s the Smut Queen and Pervert Princess. Don’t piss them off,” Dee warned. “I’ll be seein’ you,” she said, walking toward the advancing pair. “Yo wench!” she called, getting Princess’ attention. “Careful with that one girls, he’s wicked hot!” she growled, walking away.

“Well now, lookie here,” Lisa the Smut Queen said, her eyes taking in the stranger. “Well I’ll be a monkey’s uncle, why you so wet boy?” she asked.

“You can’t be a monkey’s uncle, maybe it’s aunt,” Lisa the Pervert Princess retorted.

“Shuddup,” SQ replied, then turned her smile back to Mulder.

“Oh, it was an accident,” Mulder answered, not sure what to make of the two. “Can you two lovely ladies help me through this little maze and to that castle?” he asked.

“Sure we can!” Princess exclaimed, smiling brightly at him.

“What a hoot!” SQ retorted. “What’s in it for us, babycakes?” she asked.

“What did you have in mind,” he asked, weary of what he was getting into.

Looking him up and down she grinned. “Your shirt,” she replied.

“But it’s wet,” he replied watching them closely. Dee did warn him not to tick them off.

“I don’t care, gimme the shirt or wander around the Labyrinth. End of discussion,” SQ retorted, crossing her arm and tossing her burgandy hair.

“Give,” Princess held out her hand, wiggling her fingers back at him.

Mulder unbuttoned his shirt, and slipped it off his shoulder. He heard them sigh and wondered if they were the attacking kind. Handing it to Princess, he looked back to the Queen. “So, you have my shirt, what now?” he asked.

“Shoosh. Don’t speak unless spoken to deary,” SQ declared, slapping her palm against his cheek softly. “Don’t worry, once you’re at the city, it’s easy as pie.”

“Yeah,” Princess added, sidling up to him. “So, what brings you to this side of the Labyrinth?” she asked.

“Long story,” he replied. The Lisa’s exchanged a glance right before Mulder jumped forward out of shock. “Ow! Why the hell did you do that?” he asked, rubbing his backside.

“Because we can,” Princess grinned evilly.

“Down Princess,” SQ ordered. “Come on hon, the city’s not far,” SQ stated, walking on ahead with Princess following close behind.

Mulder followed them around the corner to see a small city filled with women. Looking closer, he noted they were some of the ones he’s already run into. Not sure if he could handle their craziness again, he didn’t have a choice as SQ and Princess walked away leaving him standing in the street alone.

Taking in his surroundings, Mulder noted many structures that resembled domiciles, but wasn’t so sure of their stability. The streets were peopled by the inhabitants which happened to be women. With a small grin, he eyed some of them appreciatively but his agenda remained the same. He would have to get to that castle before his time run out. But that was hours yet.

"Hey sexy," a girl with long blonde hair drawled out, her British accent filling the air around him. "Stop by sometime, and ask for Spidey." Winking, she adjusted her black bodice and slinked down an ally way, grumbling about men in various states of undress.

"Strange," Mulder mused, crossing his arms over his undershirt and looking around the strange mass of buildings. "I doubt I could get away with filing this report to Skinner."

"Who’s Skinner?" a woman with auburn brown hair asked, looking at his confused expression with a soft smile.

"The A.D..." he trailed off as he looked around one more time. "Say, I don't suppose you have someplace where I can sit without being accosted by the charming occupants of this city?"

Laughing slightly, she pointed to the only building that looked solid. "Sure, come in for a minute. Aside from a latent Star Wars obsession, I'm the only sane one here." Turning to lead the way, she grinned. "I'm Jade."

"Special Agent Fox Mulder, call me Mulder." he said, following her toward the building. It’s structure was quite different than most he noted, as she pulled the door open. Following her into the apartments living room, he collapsed onto the couch. "This is heaven," he stated simply, watching her sit in a nearby chair.

"Shouldn't you be making your way toward the castle? I mean you only have so much time," Jade said, watching the exhausted agent with a slight smile. "I'm amazed you even got this far."

“Really? Why is that?” he asked.

Jade smiled. “Well look at the way you’re dressed for one thing. A suit isn’t suitable attire for the Labyrinth,” she stated, watching him as he crossed his arms across his chest. “Modesty does you no good in this place,” she mused.

Mulder smiled, “And why is that?” he asked.

“Because it’s inhabited by the Smut Court. They thrive on thinking dirty thoughts all day long,” she replied, brushing her hair behind her ear.

Mulder’s senses seemed to fail him, as he sat there enchanted with everything about this place. It had been a long while since he was able to just kick back and relax, and now he wasn’t so sure he should linger here much longer. He was certain that his thoughts right now would have made her kick him out a long time ago.

Pushing the notion from his mind, he turned his attention to the window. "Does that Jareth character do this often? Take women I mean." he asked, his recent thoughts plaguing his eager mind. He looked back at her and sat up when he saw her nod, trying to regain his composure with a soft smile and subtle humor. "And I thought I was desperate."

"Desperation comes in many ways. Doesn’t make it any easier. Would you like some tea or something?” she asked, noticing his glances. “Anything at all, this place is pretty nutty if you're not use to it."

Mulder chuckled. "I've seen my share of nut-bars. After this case I will jump at the next UFO sighting."

“Oh yes, chasing those little grey men,” she mused.

“You agree that they are grey instead of green? A woman after my own heart,” he shot back playfully, thankful that there was someone else out there that felt the same way.

Jade got to her feet and walked by him on her way to the kitchen unit. Pulling open the refrigerator, she peered in to find something suitable to offer a G-Man. Pulling a can of soda from the shelf, she closed the door and was startled by him standing behind her, leaning against the door frame.

“Thirsty?” she asked, reaching into the cupboard and pulling out a glass.

“Not really,” he replied, stepping closer.

“Oh?” she asked, feeling a rush of adrenaline. The space was beginning to deteriorate.

“Nope,” he smiled, leaning in closer and placing his arm on the side of the fridge. His lips, merely a fraction of an inch away from hers, a knock at the door startled them both, stealing the moment.

Jade ducked below his arm and walked to the living room once again. Maybe this wasn’t such a good idea. Glancing over her shoulder, there he was, walking up behind her with a grin. Pulling the door open, Gemma stood on the other side with Kara.

“Hey Jade, what’s up?” Kara asked, then noticed the visitor.

Gemma giggled. “More like who?” she snickered.

“It’s not like that Gemma,” Jade shot back. “He was just on his way out.”

Walking to the door, he looked at Jade and grinned. "Thanks for the interlude of sanity."

"I do what I can. Be weary of the Lisa’s and Dee, though..." Jade trailed off as she looked out her window.

"Trust me, my current state of undress is not of my own choice but thanks for the warning," he replied. With one last soft laugh he walked back out into the madness. "Two hours to go, I might as well get some dirt on the Goblin Queen."

"Hey! Suit!" Waving her arms wildly, Dee flew at the agent with a devious look on her face.

"Oh no, I've had enough practice for my Vegas show for one day. I am leaving the rest of these clothes on, if you don't mind," Mulder cocked an eyebrow as he looked at the gasping girl.

"No, I just wanted to apologize for ramming into you like that. I'm just not at my most graceful these days." Winking, she smoothed his suit jacket over her black spy suit. "You're not getting the jacket back though, I like it too much. You might want this, though."

Handing him a slip that was an overdue charge from "D.C.’s finest in Adult Videos", she gave him a small kiss on the cheek and a pinch on the rear. "I hope you return that soon, Sex Kitten 4 is a much better movie than Debby does Denver."

As she passed a thin girl with glasses and a short haircut, she turned back to him and waved. "Don't hit on Fairy, she did horrid things to the last agent who came this way! BYE!"

"Baka!" Fairy stuck out her tongue at Dee with a grin, and skipped past Mulder with a small wave. "Nice to see you, heard all about you from the hormone gallery over there. I have to go find that blasted Chem homework." Shouting, "Eternal Curse!" She kept walking leaving him standing alone in the street.

“Mulder,” a voice cut through the silence, making him turn to acknowledge them. Kara stood there with her arms folded in front of her, staring back at him with cool grey-blue eyes.

“Kara,” he acknowledged.

“You haven’t forgotten your purpose here, have you? she asked.

“No, of course not. Why do you ask?” he asked curiously.

“Well,” she began, looking back to the door she came out of. “this isn’t where you belong.” she stated bluntly.

“I know that,” he conceded. “Scully will be pissed when I finally get her out of this mess I created.”

“I can imagine,” Kara replied, looking across the way. “You’re best bet would be to get it over with,” she added as everyone gathered near the castle’s door.

Mulder looked to the castle. Inside lay his quest, and his partner’s well being was now at hand. He got her into this mess, he was determined to get her out. He wondered how she faired through this ordeal. He was certain that she coped well. She always does. Through all their cases, no matter what they came up against, she was his brick. The logic amidst the unbelievable. She was the only stable thing he had in his life, and he wasn’t about to give her up without a fight.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Mulder looked to the castle and back again to those who stood behind him. Those he thought were crazy turned out to be the only sane ones in this place. After he finally got through to a few of them and enjoyed their company, he was ready to face the Goblin King.

“Go on,” Jade urged, nodding in the direction of the castle.

“Yeah, get the lead out,” SQ added.

“You have your partner to save,” Dee spoke up.

“And not much time to do it,” Princess added.

“Just pay attention,” Fairy stated.

“Watch your back Mulder,” Gemma offered, then continued. “I could go along and watch it for you?” she grinned.

“Gemma!” Kara exclaimed, then turned her attention to Mulder. “Just be careful. He doesn’t play fair when he’s out to win.”

“Mesa knows dat,” Selah replied, a goofy grin on her face, knowing how much Mulder hated Gungan talk.

“Knock it off lightsider,” Essy retorted.

“Best of luck Mulder,” Rita added.

“May the Force be with you,” Selah said seriously.

“No, no. It goes, give yourself to the darkside. Only then will you know the true power of the Force,” Essy corrected.

“Will you two knock it off?” Princess asked.

Essy took a step toward her and thwacked her on top of the head. “Be mindful apprentice,” she stated.

“Sorry my master,” Princess conceded, rubbing the bump on her head.

“Thanks, I think,” he replied, a small smile on his lips.

Turning around, he walked with a sense of purpose toward the castle doors. Looking them over, he tried to uncover the secret to their passage when they opened from the inside. Watching as a woman stepped out into the daylight and shielded her eyes, he got the impression that it would take more than sheer luck to find Scully, not to mention the Goblin King.

“Are you alright?” he asked, as she started to pass him by.

“Hells yes!” Poledra exclaimed with a bright smile. “Hey guys!” she called, walking away from Mulder and leaving him to his task.

Walking up the steps, he entered the door, wishing he still had his gun. Walking down passage after passage, he entered an opened room with a throne. “Who’s his decorator?” Mulder asked, slightly amused by his own joke.

Off to the side was a doorway that seemed to arouse his curiosity. Walking toward it slowly, he stepped up to the archway and peered inside.

“Did you find her yet?” a voice startled him.

Mulder spun around to see the Court staring back at him. “What are you doing here?” he asked, his voice smooth and calm.

“We came to help,” Kara replied.

“I thought this had to be done alone? Isn’t that the way it’s done?” he asked, remembering the book.

“Oh that,” Princess shrugged.

“We never pay attention to Jareth’s rules, do we girls?” SQ stated.

“Nope!” they replied in unison.

Mulder shook his head and motioned them to follow. Stepping through the doorway, he was met with unexpected sight. There before him was a room unlike any other. Planes running every which way, connecting and intertwining into an elaborate display of chaos. There was no way to tell which way was up.

“Jareth!” he called, ready to get this over with and get back to reality.

Jareth appeared instantly, leaning against the far wall. A smug look on his face turned sour when he saw his listians walk in behind Mulder. “What do you all think you are doing?” he asked sternly.

“Give it up tights, you won’t win,” SQ shot back.

“Won’t I?” he asked, a sneer crossing his face. “And just why would you think that?”

“Because he’s got us, and you are all alone Jareth,” Dee replied, pulling Mulder’s jacket tighter around her.

“Blasted listians,” he muttered icily.

“Flattery will get you nowhere Jareth,” Princess replied, her evil grin widening by the second.

“Mulder!” Scully’s voice cut through the conversation, taking precedence over everything else.

“Scully!” he called back.

“I’m going to murder Poledra, that no good wench,” Jareth muttered beneath his breath, his anger rising.

“Say what Jareth?” Poledra asked, stepping to the front of the group.

“You know very well what I said,” he replied.

“Awe, I love you too Jareth,” she chided.

“Come on Jarey, give Mulder the goods,” Princess stated, rubbing her hands together like a kid on Christmas morning.

“I shall do nothing of the sort,” he shot back. With a wave of his hand, Jareth emersed Scully in a crystalline bubble that floated to where he stood. “How can you expect me to give her up?”

“Okay,” Mulder retorted, shaking his head. “What do you say ladies, would you like to come with me back to D.C.?” he asked, turning his back to Jareth.

The amount of ecstatic joy that escaped into the atmosphere was enough to make Jareth think twice about his decision. He was about to lose all his listians, and for what? A woman that was destined to put him through hell. This deal was beginning to look worse with time.

“You can’t take MY listians,” he commanded.

“Why not? You took MY partner,” Mulder countered.

“Yes, but that was different. You wished her away,” Jareth stated simply. Crossing his arms across his chest, he watched Mulder carefully.

“Through dangers untold and Jedi unnumbered, I have made my way here to this castle, beyond the lovely ladies to take back my partner with force if necessary,” Mulder stated seriously.

“What is that gibberish?” Jareth asked with contempt in his voice.

“Come on Jareth, as long as he says it does it really matter? Besides, we’re going with him if he loses,” Gemma countered, her smile widening at the thought of following Mulder to the far reaches of the earth.

“You won’t go,” Jareth stated icily.

“You can bet your tights we will if he asks us!” Dee responded.

"It seems as though we are at an impasse, a stalemate of sorts. You've claimed Scully as is your right as monarch, but these ladies bear no fealty to you. If my guess is correct then they are citizens of their own respective countries back in the real world," Mulder rambled, doing what he does best.

The listians all looked at Jareth, their eyes asking an unspoken question, ‘Could you let us go?’, making Jareth squirm beneath their gaze. Feeling his situation fading into oblivion, he decided that one woman wasn’t worth his listians.

“Very well, take her and get out of my kingdom,” Jareth stated, bursting Scully’s bubble to have her land on the cold stone floor by Mulder.

Mulder offered her his hand and pulled her to her feet. Looking back at the listians, he gave them thanks just before disappearing back to the ordinary world with Scully at his side. Suddenly standing his office, Mulder grinned. They made it. Though they didn’t quite get what they were after, they were still together to give it another try in the future. Jareth’s days were numbered.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

“This is your report, Agent Mulder?" Assistant Director Skinner’s gaze was met by an acquired half smile from the slouching agent.

Placing the piece of paper on the desk, he removed his glasses and rubbed the bridge of his nose. The only noise in the office was the subtle movement of air coming from the ceiling vent. Nothing moved. Scully sat with her eyes searching the floor, while Mulder was enraptured by the stack of pens on the AD’s desk that were sorted by shape and name-brand. The muscle under Skinner’s eye twitched.

"Agent Mulder, in my time as your advisor here with the Bureau I've read reports that aside from your research and twisted logic were nearly... laughable. I've accepted rationalizations for shape-shifting.."

"Poly-morphing," Mulder cut in.

"..spontaneous combustion..."

"It's been proved many times..." he defended.

"..alien abduction of you and your partner.."

Absently Scully rubbed the back of her neck.

".. and government conspiracies reaching back before you were born."

Mulder looked at Skinner, knowing that if one person in the Bureau believed in him it was the ex-marine.

"What I don't understand is that this report is completely vauge and devoid of any research and or theories on your part. Aside from a buisness expense for a lost suit, I can't see any results from this case." Looking again at the two agents, he let his seriouse gaze linger long enough to make them uneasy. Even in his desk job, he was an intimidating figure.

"Sir," Scully put in, lifting her gaze to meet her superior’s. "We followed our only lead here in the states to a mental health facility, and the witness in question was in no state of mind to answer questions about an event that had been scarring to her as a child."

Nodding, Skinner listened as she went on.

"She is on her road to recovery, and the case was obviously a work of fiction to cover anxiety or something else lacking in her life."

"Would you believe us if we told you that I spent a day walking through a fantasy labyrinth, was harassed and molested by women who took apart the before mention suit, and ended the day with confronting an effeminate monarch who called himself the Goblin King, a persona that David Bowie would envy."

Skinner raised an eyebrow and stood up, dismissing the agents. When the door shut behind them, he sank back into his chair and pressed his face into his hands. "Hell," he mused aloud. "I think I would have believed him if he had put up a convincing case that he'd been playing gin with the Easter Bunny."

Shaking his head, the assistant director put Mulder’s case report under his schedule book, a small laugh escaping him.