Weavings Part 1

by

Dreamspinner and IrishCreme

Chapter 1 ******************************

    Dreamspinner finished up the tapestry she was working on, carefully taking it from the loom. The feather-light fabric sparkled and shimmered in the evening sun. Suddenly, she throws the tapestry into the air, where it whirls maddeningly in upon itself, spinning and compressing until a small crystal sphere is all that remained. Dreamspinner watched the new-formed crystal as it began its lazy decent into her open palm. Once it was in her hands, she critically surveyed her work while humming a soft melody.                 "Ah, yes, this one is most definitely for Eithne...," she said as she gazed deeply within the depths of the crystal, seeing only sweet moonlit adventures within. "Enjoy, Bean Rua...," she sang as she sent the gift onward to its destination with a mental command. Dreamspinner sighed, and crossed over to the window to lean on the windowsill as she gazed up at the luminous moon. 'Gwydion will be home soon,' she thought happily. Her husband and soulmate was such a pleasure to think on. Her pale, alabaster skin glowed in the moonlight as if she were a bit of the moon itself, brought to the underground to brighten and guide. Stray flame-colored wisps of hair escaped the confines of the moonbeam net holding back her abundant tresses to dance about her upturned face in the welcome night breeze. "Do you miss me?" she asked of it, knowing there would be no reply. She enjoyed the serenity of the night, and watched the constellations swirl in their never-ending dance.

*************

Eithne weaves:

    I flutter silently over the cottage. I notice her weaving again. "What dreams does she spin tonight?" I wonder. "To have that gift," I wish. But I have other duties to attend. Flying swiftly over the landscape of time and space, I land gently on the window ledge and creep in through the slightly-opened window. "This one must sleep," I say softly, hovering just out of the crying baby's vision. I sing a soothing lullaby, and slowly, but surely, the child falls into a deep slumber. I move in closer to the toddler, watching his slow, deep breathing. "Now Dreamspinner can cast her spells," I say, kissing the peaceful babe on the forehead. My mission done, I leave the house as I came...unnoticed. Fitted partners are we, Eithne(the sylph faerie) and Dreamspinner.

*******

    "Ah, she returns," Dreamspinner sighed softly as she pulled her awareness slowly away from the twilight realms, then looked up from the loom with a pleased expression, "Come in, dear one, and have a goblet of mead..." Eithne floats gracefully around the cottage, her aqua-blue eyes darted to the window, her faerie ears twitching at the sound of the faerie ring. She descended to Dreamspinner, taking her gifted hands into her own saying, "Shall we join them tonight, or do I take them alone?"                                      "Lead on, wee maid of flame!" Dreamspinner cried and darted to the cottage door, the sound of merrymaking holding her attention, drawing her to the grove. "Tonight is a night for dancing!" The light of the full moon slips around and caresses the two red-headed fae in silent welcome as they emerge from the cottage. Dreamspinner caught a bit of it in her alabaster hands, twirling it into a gossomer gown that shines like a small star, and then hands the new-made dress to Eithne saying, "You shall be the envy of all in the circle tonight...a dress made of the stuff dreams are woven of... your elf-lord will be a-panting," Dreamspinner smiled in wicked delight, a mischevious gleam in her teal-bright eyes. "Yes?" she asks rougishly, peeking up at Eithne through her thick lashes. After Eithne changes into the shimmering gown, we go out into the forest where our people await us. A symphony of elfin voices greeted us as we made our rounds amongst the crowd. A moonlight-skinned elf-lord grabbed Eithne's hands and twirled her into the dance. Her steps were light and her spirit free as she joined the circle, and her delighted laughter echoed within the song of the night.                                

*******

    Later, I leave the circle of dancing and singing fae to find Dreamspinner. "What dost thou wish, small one?" she asks me, her magical eyes twinkling with a wisdom older than time, "Your heart's desires? A lifetime of pleasant dreams?"

"Oh, nothing as grand as that, Dreamspinner," I reply, my large faerie heart full of admiration. "I only wish to fullfill other's dreams. And what of you, great weaver? What are *your* dreams?" She looks at me mistily, "I don't think I have ever been asked that before. What are my dreams?"

"Ah, mo cara, my dreams are not what most would think. My time in the human realm weighs heavily on my heart. I have seen loved ones mourn my passing before its due time. I have been through the demon's claws and did not escape without wounds. My poor tattered body strives in vain to keep up with my spirit. I have watched my husband's anguish as he tries to be strong for me...for us. Knowledge is often born of pain, little one. Anything worth having must be worked for and to be able to heal great pain, one must in turn know it well. So I spin dreams for others- to hopefully provide safe-haven for those who need to shake off the shackles of reality but for a time. When I sit by my loom, I desperately hope that I have had some positive influence on someone, that I will be remembered when I must leave the mortal plane of existance. My life there is uncertain... and as it should be. I am content. "                        

    Dreamspinner paused for a moment, then sighed, "In the twilight realm, I have taken in many a young childling- to guide them to their future, no matter how great or small.                   
My husband is the Lord of the Wild Hunt. I long ago smashed the ivory
horn that enslaved them. They are tied to me by choice- and I do not
abuse that. I would not. Our love completes us. On starlit nights we
ride together over glenn and dale, to lose ourselves in the thrill of
the chase. Maybe you have seen us? A slight blur out of the corner of
your eyes? We ride the wind...I cling tightly to my lover as he reigns in
his dark horse, my flame-bright hair contrasts so starkly with his
swirling black cloak. He's deep brown eyes glint with mischief as we
sweep around the unwary folk of the human realm, who only feel our
presence as a spring breeze, even though their world is caught in the
winter season. Any who come to me are never turned away. Even the pale spirits of dreamtime rest among the unicorns at play in the emerald glade by my cottage. I have hosted poets, bards, and dreamers alike. All are
welcome. None are of greater or lesser importance - all are the same to
me. All are important strands woven in the great tapestry of life.....
But I digress- My dreams are not so easily pinned down, even by myself!
They are in a constant state of flux, due to the many things I've seen.
Dreams are but reflections of the dreamer...."
    Dreamspinner's gaze rests fondly on the little sylph before her, "May
you only know the goodness in life, dear one. That is my wish for you."
And Eithne felt the calm powerful touch of Dreamspinner's mind, *I
shall always count you among my dearest friends, bean rua... thank you*

************

    I shuddered as the feeling of complete serenity came over me. "You are
truly content, Dreamspinner, and happy. I admire that." I hover over
the ground slightly (as I usually do when I'm uneasy), looking
questioningly at the ring of fae still enjoying the merriment of the
twilight. "Where I belong and where I what to be are two different
places. My greatest fear is that I'll lose one or the other. Can I
have both? I don't know. Pressure to marry in both worlds, unsure
about suitors in both, as well. Just to be free as a bird, but they
have obligations too, I bet. Whoever said being a faerie was easy, must
not have really been fae." I land softly on the moist earth, sitting
next to Dreamspinner, whose compassionate gaze has never left me. She
lays her hand upon my shoulder, and I feel the understanding...the
understanding without an answer. "There's nothing you can tell me,
right?" Dreamspinner shakes her beautiful head in concurrence. The
elven lord approaches we red-headed faeries, smiling reverently at
Dreamspinner, then offering his hand to me. I sigh heavily in mock
debate. "He's so handsome. I don't know if I should." Dreamspinner
pushes me off the ground, laughing all the while at my youth...no, my
innocence. I have so much yet to learn.

*************

    Dreamspinner watched Eithne gracefully slip into the dance in the
arms of the elf-lord. "My Lady..." a deep velvet voice shook her out of
her reverie.

"Oh, it is you- I had hoped to see you amongst the
revelers," Dreamspinner sighed as she accepted her dark-one's silent
entreaty to dance, the tall man gently helped her to rise. They joined
the circle, much to the delight of the attending fae.

"Dance, Dreamspinner, Dance!" they cried "Dance the circle into dream!" She
laughed good-naturedly at their antics, many were doing impressive feats
of aerial acrobatics to capture her attention. "A hunt, a hunt!" the fae
all cried.

Dreamspinner's lord looked deeply into her eyes in question,
"Yes, my love, yes- let us ride!" she answered, her rich honeyed
laughter echoed throughout the ring. Bright thoughts and emotions sang
amongst the dancers, calling to kith and kin...This would be a night to
remember!
    The moonlight and shadowed steeds were quickly summoned, sounds of
delighted laughter swelled around the riders. Dreamspinner's lord
mounted his great steed, then held his hand down to her to assist her
into her favorite place in the saddle behind him. After she was settled,
snuggling in and pressing her cheek to her lover's back, she glanced
about for Eithne, who had chosen to ride her own steed this
night-but her elf-lord was near and playing at guarding her flank.

     As I mount my magnificent steed, white as my fair skin, I worry about
the gown Dreamspinner made me. "Do you think I'll ruin it, Fionnuala?"
I ask the elven lord at my side, preparing his own horse.

"How can anyone ruin anything Dreamspinner prepares?" he returns, his emerald green eyes catching mine. I look ahead to Dreamspinner, mounted behind her strong, handsome husband.

"To find that kind of love," I speak softly, thinking no one would hear. Fionnuala floats before me, his eyes glittering in the roaring fire of the fae. "Maybe you're not looking in the right place," he says quickly before flying to his mount. It is magical to watch Dreamspinner and her lover. 'Whose ears shall we tickle tonight, Dreamspinner?' I send my thoughts to her.

     The musical sounds of tinkling bells and harnesses traveled through the night. Dreamspinner's lord lifted the silver horn to his lips- and sounded the much-awaited golden charge. All the faerie musicians joined in as the Wild Hunt surged forward.....
    Dreamspinner gently sent her pleasure-tinged blessing to Eithne, "Ride free this night, my friend..... Listen to the song of your blood,
the sound of your soul, and enjoy the moment!"

Chapter 2*************************

    As The Wild Hunt surges forward, Dreamspinner is reminded of long
ago... when she first rode with the hunt... under entirely different
circumstances. She hugs her dark lord fiercely, and he cups her delicate
hands within one of his own. Through the mists of time, the veil draws
back... onward until we reach the destination of memory...

    Dreamspinner leaned out of her cottage window, moonlight curling
delicately around her graceful form. Something was not quite right in
the wood... Suddenly, her cottage door flung open, and three dark fae
stepped inside. Dreamspinner spun around and faced the intruders in
total startlement. Shadows curled around the three figures... their
forms here almost hidden by the opaque substance. Their leader took off
his great antlered helmet to regard the flame-haired faerie woman,
imploring her with his deep brown eyes, "Lady, please come... You have
been summoned by the unseelie court," his handsome face contorted, as he
shook with rage against the curse which bound him. Dreamspinner took her
hands from the window ledge that had been supporting her. "I will come."
she said softly. The rest of The Hunt waited outside... They watched in
silence as their leader mounted his great shadowed beast and assisted
the bright lady up behind himself. All knew that no good could come of
this act.
    Dreamspinner held fast to the huntsman, tightening her grip about his
waist as the hunt surged forward. No music or laughter accompanied this
hunt- only silence born of fear and desperation. Dreamspinner shook with
cold at the thought of what these men had been forced to become. The
Lord noticed, and thinking it fear, said "Please, bright-one, forgive me
this act. I would wish myself dead before I would willingly harm you."
"I know." Dreamspinner's warm honey-rich voice seemed to sweep a bit of
serenity into the tortured man. He grasped her hands in one of his large
ones. "They will pay.." he said through clenched teeth.
The shadows were getting thicker and thicker the closer they got to the
unseelie hall. Dreamspinner's skin and hair glowed through the darkness
with the brightness of a hundred moons, causing many of the unseelie
creatures to flee in fear. They arrived at the hall, and the huntsmen
dismounted. The same two who had entered her cottage helped her down
from the great height of the dark lord's saddle. He jumped down, and
with a sarcastic jeer pronounced "The Unseelie court, my lady."
Dreamspinner stood on tip-toe and whispered into the dark lord's ear
"Fear not for *my* safety, dark-one..." the dark lord stepped back in
confusion, seeing the frightening blue-green blaze in her large eyes.
With that she entered the hall, two of his hunters guarding her.

The unseelie King stood on the dais looking triumphant. "Ah, my great
lady, my Dreamspinner," he cooed at her. She curtsied demurely, then
cast her blazing consciousness upon him, gazing deeply into his eyes. He
realized then too late his folly, his eyes widened- pupils dilating in
total fear from her crippling psychic attack. "Take my hands if you
dare..." she replied, climbing the dais like a cat stalking its prey.
Terrified whimpers could be heard circulating the room, all there knew
their lord's doom had come. She took his face into her delicate hands,
sweeping his stray locks away from his horrified face, "Do you really
want me, my lord?" her sibilant whisper echoed through the stony silence
in the hall. "I think I am more than one such as you can handle, pup.
Why don't you just let me go... and give me the hunting horn for my, ah,
inconvenience, hmm?" The King's pages quickly handed over the desired
article. "Well, now, that is all done... have a pleasant evening..." she
tapped the amazed huntsmen into action, "Come now, or would you rather
stay here?" They both followed her out of the keep. Their lord sprang
from the ground where he had sunk in despair "What?!" was all he could
think of to say. "Oh- you won't believe what the lady did!" her two
guards chimed.

Dreamspinner looked about in apprehension, "We must be away before he
can recover...," she glanced up into the dark-lord's eyes. "As my lady
wishes..." he replied smiling down at her, "Tho' I wish I could have
seen that... Huntsmen- mount up and away to Dreamspinner's cottage!" he
gave the command in a great voice. They rode out of the shadows and into
the moonlit night.
   

When they arrived at the cottage, after they dismounted and sent away
the shadow beasts...Dreamspinner called them all to stand in a circle
around her. Holding the horn aloft, her wild hair billowing about her in
the night breeze, she gently but thoroughly destroyed the vessel of the
curse that had bound the huntsmen for an eternity. The horn shattered in
her upraised hands, and she focused her healing power within the rough
circle of men around her... "You are all free..." she whispered softly
as she slumped to the ground, the immense energy drain the healing had
taken now very apparent. She was so pale. The dark-lord rushed to her
side, "Bright-one!" he cried as he scooped her up into his arms. "Tell
your men I shall send them wherever they desire..." she whispered to
him, her voice barely audible. "We'll not leave you great lady." he said
firmly, and glanced about. He knew his men all felt the same- they were
still tied to one another as closely as brothers, their glad-bright
thoughts echoing in his mind. "Go and play- the night is not over..."
she said softly, making slight "shooing" gestures with her hands. The
dark-lord nodded to his men, and they all went out into the night to
revel in their freedom. With quick long strides, Gwydion entered into
Dreamspinner's cottage, and settled her into the wing-backed chair by
the hearth. He then knelt at her feet, "Lady, is there naught I can do
for you?" he asked. She leaned closer to him, tousling his dark hair.
"We will see." was her enigmatic reply.

*************

    All has come full-circle. We have returned to where we had begun. I
dismount Chala, my faerie steed, and stretch my weary limbs. Fionnuala
takes Chala's reins from me, signaling he will care for my horse. I
lean over and leave a lingering kiss on his smooth elven cheek. He
remains planted in his spot for a moment, shocked by my outward show of
affection. Before Fionnuala can say anything, I rush toward
Dreamspinner.
    I grab Dreamspinner's hands, an expression of pure delight on my impish
yet ethereal face. "I saw it all, Dreamspinner! It was as if I was in
your thoughts. And what you did for Gwydion and his huntsman is
wonderful. But what happened after that evening? How did things
progress with you two?" Dreamspinner smiles knowingly at me and leads
me to a quiet place in the forest. "Sit and I will tell you more," she
says.

    Dreamspinner smiled at Eithne, and her beautiful eyes twinkled merrily. She turned her focus inward once more.... into the paths of time... opening the chapters of her memories for her dear-one to share...

    Dreamspinner looked down at the handsome dark-lord still kneeling
patiently at her feet, her eyes dancing with delight. His eyes were
caught and held by hers- no, he wished to be caught by such a one.
She arched a delicate brow. "You can hear my thoughts,
bright-one?" Gwydion asked hesitantly. He reverently took her
gentle-healing hands into his own, watching for any sign of resistance,
so he would not overstep his bounds. "Only because you wished it to be
so, and I find you deserving," she softly replied. "I want to share with
you, bright-one, I want to show you more of myself that what you've seen
in the hunt," his last words were so bitter, so self demeaning-
She felt his pain- and could not bear to see him suffer so, "I
know your true worth, Gwydion." To hear his name from her lips- he
thought he would die from the pleasure of it! None had spoken his name
in so long- none dared to. "All that is over, place it behind you... I
see my healing of you was a little lacking...," her gentle reprimand
brought his wandering thoughts home. "No Dreamspinner, not at all," he
said her name! This was very new... 'what am I feeling?' he asked
himself. "Do tell me" she said softly. "I...," before he could finish,
she pulls him to her, holding his head to her chest, sending him sweet
comforting thoughts. He could feel her gentle presence in his mind-
gently chasing the shadows from his confused psyche. He reached his arms
about her waist and clung to her like a small child clings to what is
familiar, the sweet scent of lavender filled his nostrils as he buried
his face further into her chest, the feelings repressed for several
lifetimes flowing freely now. "I am ruining your dress," he said
lightly, though not willing to break their embrace. "I can always make
another," he can tell by the sound of her honey-rich voice that she was
smiling. He looked up into her beautiful calm eyes and found himself
finally home.

**************

"Do you think I can have that kind of love?" I ask Dreamspinner, pure
longing shining from my eyes. "I think I have found one that will make
me happy and love me for all times, but his life is of this world only.
I don't know if I should burden him with my dual-personality. How goes
it with Gwydion?" I rise from the soft earth, pacing in from of
Dreamspinner. "I never thanked you for this beautiful dress."
Dreamspinner smiles and nods her head. "What really burdens you, bean
rua?" she asks me thoughtfully. I sigh heavily, hating to admit. "I'm
scared..."
Dreamspinner offers her hand to Eithne, her eyes gone deep with
understanding, "Ah, yes, that is something. But do not fear, little one.
Fear often causes people to never have what they truly desire. Do you
not think that I was afraid of what Gwydion could mean to me? Small
losses often bring great gain. Please tell me, bean rua, what troubles
you so that I may help..."

"Oh, Dreamspinner. I have such deep feelings for Fionnuala, but I'm afraid if I accept his proposal of marriage that I'll find someone else. Or that I won't feel as deeply about him a century from now." I fly around in circles above Dreamspinner's head, making her quite dizzy as she watches me. "Would you please come down here, child, she laughs at my nervous reflex, "I won't do you any good if my mind's rattling!" I smile and land gently on the soft earth. "So, you are saying that if I continue to fear Fionnuala and what he is offering that I might lose out on the greatest love?" My head darts toward the east, my ears twitching. "I hear a baby crying. Duty calls." I hover before Dreamspinner, removing her beautiful gossamer dress and magicking it away to a safe place. "I suppose you had better get back to the loom. I think your services will be needed for this one, as well as mine." I wink at the angelic-looking fae and fly towards my destination, my thoughts full of Fionnuala and the advice Dreamspinner will give me when I return to her cottage.

    Dreamspinner watched the sylph dart away and sighed. Gwydion came
striding into the forest to where she reclined on the cool earth and
offered her his hand to assist her to rise. He quickly pulled her into a
loving embrace,"What troubles you, bright-one?" he asked softly as he
nuzzled her neck. "I hope to give Eithne good advice concerning
Fionnuala....She holds the key to her questions within," she said
softly. "Ah, yes," the great Lord of the Hunt shook his head and said,
"Come precious, let us go to the cottage where you can begin tonight's
weavings. I will sit with you if you wish it so," he said gently as he
played with her hair. "Yes, my love, you are most welcome. I enjoy your
presence," she said serenely glancing up into his warm brown eyes. He
had beautiful eyes- they were such a rich color- and had little flecks
of gold and green in them. She gently touched minds with him, and as
one, they turned off into the direction of Dreamspinner's cottage.

    I kiss the little girl's forehead lightly. Her mouth turns up in a
sweet smile, and I know Dreamspinner is weaving a very special dream for
this little angel tonight. I leave the house and fly quickly,
collecting stars along the way, to the cottage in the center of the
glen. I land softly on Dreamspinner's doorstep and see her husband
sitting beside her. "Oh, milord. I hadn't expected you. Beannacht."
He nods pleasantly at me, a warm, knowing smile playing upon his
handsome face. I approach Dreamspinner and her loom, handing her the
stars I had gathered on my way. "A gift, my friend, for your weaving
tonight." I pulled a stool in front of Dreamspinner and Gwydion. "Am I
blessed with both of your wise words this eve?"

    Gwydion looks at his wife, a loving smile playing on his lips, "You
begin my dearest." and winks roguishly at Eithne. "You know what
path to take, child- you know what your heart is telling you,"
Dreamspinner sighs gently, "When Gwydion and I realized what was going
on between us, I was frightened. I did not want him to feel obligated in
any way by my gift to him. I thought he was latching on to someone just
because they saved him- it is a common happening. But then I allowed
myself to look deeper within, and I realized that I needed him as much
if not more than he needed me." Gwydion wrapped his arms about his wife
and rested his cheek against hers smiling deeply. Dreamspinner leaned
back into his embrace."Yes, he let me run, and gave good chase...until I
ran back into his arms- where I have happily been ever since."

    I smile at the obviously happy couple. Dreamspinner giggles softly and
buries her face in Gwydion's strong chest, he patting her fiery hair and
smiling also. I do know understand their merriment, but turn to follow
Gywdion's darting gaze. Fionnuala stands in Dreamspinners doorway,
looking as handsome as the first day I saw him. "May I speak with you,
Eithne?" he asks me, extending his hand. I accept, knowing that now
is the time for me to choose my true path...with Fionnuala.I follow Fionnuala outside the cottage, butterflies flying rampant in my
stomach. The elfin lord holds my hands, lovingly rubbing them with his
thumb. "You know, Eire (his nickname for me), I have loved you from the
moment I first saw you...bathing yourself in mud! Even under all that
muck, I could see your beauty, inside and out. You have grown so much
since we met, and I am so proud of your accomplishments. Learning to
weave from Dreamspinner, teaching our off-key dwarves how to sing.
That's quite a feat, I might add. You continue to give, expecting
nothing in return. You live a double-life, which can't be easy, but you
do both great justice. I admire all that you are and all that you will
be. I only want to be a part of it...as your husband." He lowers to
one knee, still holding my hands. "Eithne, will you become my
wife?"

My heart stops briefly, but my voice doesn't. "Yes." An excited gasp
pulls my attention to the doorway, where I find Dreamspinner and Gwydion
peeking from behind the frame. Both of their eyes bid me
congratulations and tell me I'd made the right decision. My heart leaps
for joy, and I hug Fionnuala happily. So many plans...

**************  

Dreamspinner and Gwydion tore themselves away from the cottage window to glance into each other's merry eyes. They wanted to give the young
couple privacy in their moment of bliss. Gwydion decided that now was a
good time to play- so he threw a giggling Dreamspinner over his shoulder
and vaulted up the stairs, all-the-while sending her enticing thoughts
of what he was going to do once they got to their candlelit bedroom.

Chapter 3***********************

Meanwhile out in the forest...

I hide behind a tree, waiting patiently. Just seconds before he passes
my hiding spot, I stick out my long leg and trip Fionnuala, sending him
plummeting to the soft earth.

"Ah, you're a wench, Eire," he laughs, dusting off the dirt from his
tunic. "You should make my life very...unpredictable."

"Aye, that I should," I return, snuggling close to my elfin fiance. I
look deep into his forest-green eyes, seeing the love I have always
desired, then kissed him longingly on his full, supple lips. His
returned kiss urges our passion forward, but I pull away quickly, taking
to flight. "Ah-ah-ah," I scold playfully, shaking my finger at
Fionnuala. "Not until the honeymoon, my dear."

"At this rate, we'll never have a honeymoon becuase we're never going to
have a wedding!" he protests.

"Dreamspinner and I have a few ends to tie up, then all will be ready,
Fionnuala. I promise. By the end of the week, I'll be your wife."

I blow him a kiss before darting off for Dreamspinner's cottage. I
notice smoke coming from the chimney and decide not to use my favorite
entrance route. I land a few feet from her door and begin walking, only
to be cut off my a tall, looming figure.

"Going somewhere, faerie?"

I look up into the startling blue eyes of the Goblin King. "Ah, Lord
Jareth. What brings you to our neck of the woods?"

"I heard there was to be a wedding. Just coming to see if my services
are necessary. By the way, congratulations, Lovebug."

"Don't call me that, Hangnail. You know I hate it when you call me
that." I circle Jareth stealthily. "Nevermind. Nothing you say or do
can bring me down. I'm as happy as a lark and intend to stay that
way...forever!"

"Oh, I meant no harm, Eithne," Jareth apologizes, grabbing me by my
shoulders. "You just inspire all that hear your honey-sweet voice in
song to love selflessly. And well, you have wings and fly around
quickly, so you remind me of a bug. It's merely an affectionate
nickname: Lovebug. Appropriate, don't you think?"

"No," I answer simply. Jareth always seemed to know just what strings
to pull. I really shouldn't get so upset with him. After all...

"After all, dear, I did bring you here." He finishes my thought. "I'd
expect a little more gratitude. You never would have realized your true
form had I not intereceded in the nick of time, before you settled down
to a mundane life."

"I know, Jareth, and I'm sorry I've been so rude to you. You just treat
me like a child all the time, and that irritates me. I am a woman, you
know."

Jareth takes my hand and kisses it lightly. "Yes, I'm quite aware that
you are a woman, Eithne. You'll have to forgive the fatherly
attention I shower on you. You're like a daughter to me."

An idea pops into my head and I smile excitedly at Jareth. "Would you,
then, do me the honor of giving me away at the wedding?"

Jareth's usually cold, blue eyes sparkled like sapphires, and I knew he
was on the verge of crying. Also knowing that the situation would
embarrass him, I quickly said, "Yes or no, Jareth. Time's a wastin'."

"Of course!" He hugged me fiercely. "The honor is all mine."

"Well, then, please help with the arrangements, kind sir. Dreamspinner
is expecting me!"

    Dreamspinner popped her head out of the open upstairs window, "Hi! Come on in- you too Jareth!" Her eyes glinted mischievously. Jareth looked up at Dreamspinner and playfully blew her a kiss, which she pretended to catch
and presumably fainted as it supposedly hit her. He threw her a rueful
smile as he and Eithne enter, Dreamspinner's musical laughter
slipping delicately through the cottage.

*********

"How do you feel about lilies?" Jareth asks, hoping I would like the
idea.
"Ugh. How cliche. There are lilies at every wedding I've ever been
to. I think I prefer yellow roses and orchids." I smile victoriously,
knowing he wouldn't push the issue.
"Well, that's all well and good, but I insist that you wear the dress I
concocted for you."
    I am stunned. Jareth had made me a dress? With his exquisite taste, I
know it has to be beautiful. He dashes outside and retrieves a small
trunk from the bushes near Dreamspinner's cottage. He places it in
front of me, and my hands are trembling in anticipation. Losing
patience with me, she too anxious to view the wedding gown, Dreamspinner
throws open the lid, gasping at the present within.
    I pull the dress out of the trunk, my eyes mesmerized at the loveliness
before me. The material appears to be woven crystal. It is as soft as
feathers and sparkles like quartz. The cut is simple: the dress is
straight cut with an extended train. The sleeves are long and tight,
the waistline fitted and the bodice modest yet flattering. On the
bottom of the trunk, underneath the gown, is a wreath crown of yellow
roses and orchids. The tears that had been welling in my eyes now fell
without restraint.
"Notice I didn't use lilies?" Jareth smiles lovingly at me.
I nod, unable to answer at the moment. Dreamspinner pats my hand, her
smile giving me great confidence and solace. I swallow my tearful joy
and ask, "So, what do you have in store for my wedding, mo cara?"

"Oh, Anam Cara, just tell us what you desire, and we shall endeavor to
make it so." Dreamspinner says as she gently squeezes Eithne's hand.
Jareth smiles and adds, "Of course."
"Shall we have a dance in the circle?" Dreamspinner asks sweetly, her
cheeks all aflush. She's almost dancing in place. Jareth looks at
Dreamspinner a small smile playing about his lips... there's something
in his eyes when he looks at her... something that Dreamspinner is
totally oblivious to, being very focused on her anam cara's upcoming
marriage. But she turns to look directly into Jareth's eyes.... a
startled gasp escapes her as she catches the tendrils of his thoughts.
She looks panicked for a moment, then bolts out of the cottage door and
into the night. Jareth tried to stop her, but he wasn't fast enough, he
merely caught the edge of her sleeve, which tore from his numb fingers.
Eithne watched the scene in total confusion. Gwydion comes running
down the stairs,"What has happened? Dreamspinner...," he glances about
quickly, searching for her, his gaze finally resting on Jareth, "What
have you done?" he asks solemnly. Jareth drops back into his seat and
puts his head in his hands, "I made a wish..."

********

    I glare at Jareth in raging shock, my expression matching Gwydion's. "I
don't have time to ask what you wished for," I start angrily. "That you
will fill me in later. I do suppose you need to talk with Gwydion,
though. I'm sure he's completely interested in your wish. As for me, I
will find Dreamspinner and mend what I can. Jareth, you will not ruin
my day, understand?"
    I don't give him a chance to reply. I dart out the door, leaving the
always disturbing Goblin King to his talk with Dreamspinner's husband.
She may be too quick for Jareth, but Dreamspinner is no match for my
speed. I make a habit out of racing the wind...and winning! I find her
huddled beneath an ancient oak tree. I slide beside her unnoticed,
gently wrapping my arms around her tiny figure. I still cannot tell if
she is crying, although I am certain she is on the verge. Dreamspinner
rests her head on my shoulder. I stroke her silky hair comfortingly.
"This time it is my turn, mo cara. Tell me what is troubling you."

    Dreamspinner's voice sounds so fragile, so soft, "He wished...what I
cannot give. I thought this was all settled long ago. His desire at the
moment of the wish was so great...I could not withstand it. I was
unprepared. How could I guess? I know he is lonely for the companionship
he thinks he wants, but it is not in his nature to keep what he
conquers-not on the battlefield of love, at any rate. Such desire! I
have not felt its like...it is unwholesome... such desire always
destroys." and Dreamspinner began to shake violently in Eithne's
embrace. "I do not like to see my loved ones hurting... no matter what they do," she whispered. Tears began to flow freely, unstopped, unchecked. The great oak shivered in quiet sympathy, and lowered its bottom branches to surround and protect the two flame-haired fae. Small faeries with glow-worm lanterns came and decorated the branches, each hovering briefly to touch Dreamspinner's hair, then to dart quickly away. "Always before when he came to me with a problem, I could help... this time I do not know what to do... so I
ran... I could give him a dream of me, but that would only make it worse
for both of us." Dreamspinner finished brokenly, looking up into
Eithne's eyes- what the sylph saw in her cara's eyes saddened and
frightened her. She felt herself drawn in... but before she could sense
her friend's tumultuous thoughts, Dreamspinner pulled it all inward and
fainted, slumping in Eithne's embrace. The sylph knew with great
certainty that her cara did this only to protect her, no matter what
cost to herself. Eithne looked at the unmoving pale tear-streaked
face of the friend she held in her arms in wonder. Her wonder soon
turned to burning anger at the one who caused this.

"Send for Fionnuala immediately," I command a passing faerie, collecting
Dreampinner's limp body in my arms. No sonner had I commanded than my
elfin lord is present. "Please take her to your sidhe, Fionnuala. No
one is to see her, not even Gwydion, without my permission. She is too
emotionally fragile. I will return shortly."
    I fly faster than song back to Dreamspinner's cottage. Gwydion and
Jareth are locked in heated silence. "Gwydion, I ask that you fetch
some appropriate meat for the feast following my wedding. Twould do me
a great favor. I will counsel on Dreamspinner with you later. Rest
assured she is in good hands." The handsome hunter nods at me, forcing
a smile of gratitude. He leaves in haste, unable to bear Jareth's
presence any longer.
    I advance on the Goblin King, my eyes changing from their natural ocean
hue to flames of orange and red. Jareth gasps and backs away from me.
"What is happeneing to you?"
"I'm growing up, Jareth. Finally seeing that not all is good in the
world, mine or yours. Finally realizing that a leopard really cannot
change its spots. How dare you? How dare you ask of her what she
cannot give you?"
Jareth backs against the far wall of Dreamspinner's cottage. His eyes,
for the first time I can remember, show unadulterated fear. My wings,
usually light and oval-shaped, transform into wings like that of a
dragon, red and powerful. My pink sheath that I usually wear is
replaced by a tight red leather bodysuit and my hair flies wildly,
without wind. I can feel my temperament changing along with my
appearance.
"You're...changing," Jareth stutters out, his breathing short and
quick. "You look like...like..."
I smile venomously, grabbing his shoulders, holding his gaze with my
fiery eyes. "Take a long look, Jareth. How's does it feel to be
looking at yourself?"

"Stop it! Stop it!" Jareth shouts, shaking his head violently.
"Enough. I've had enough."
I release the Goblin King, whom I had been holding mid-air. He drops to
the floor with a loud thud. As I descend to the floor, my features
return to normal. I shudder as if a cold breeze has whipped through
Dreamspinner's cottage. "What happened?"
Jareth looks up from where his eyes have been hidden behind his arms.
His features relax and he slowly comes out of the corner. "You
transformed into some wicked faerie that showed me my true heart."
My confusion and disorinetation fade and I remember that I am furious
with Jareth. "Well what did you see?"

*********

    As Dreamspinner floated in the darkness... a light appeared in the
distance. Unearthly music and a sense of tranquility entered her
distraught psyche. "Mother...Moira..," she whispered. "I am here my
childling, my dear little one," a delicate weaving of three voices so
sweet and pure answered. She felt the arms about her tighten. Fionnuala
glanced down with a uneasy expression as he studied the luminously pale
face of the woman he now held in his arms. He felt a presence other than
Dreamspinner's surrounding them, a presence older than time, older than
his people.... and it worried him. He flew quickly to the sidhe.

    Fionnuala gently laid Dreamspinner on his large canopied bed. His peolpe were very distressed by their suddenappearance in the sidhe- mostly by the condition Dreamspinner was in. Who could have harmed the gentle healer? Fionnuala was grimly closed-mouthed about what had happened. Even the frequent attempts to reach her mind failed...as if some archetypal presence thwarted their efforts. The court waited in silence.

Fionnuala glanced worriedly at Dreamspinner. Eithne had bid him
take care of Dreamspinner- and he would do just that. He pulled a chair
next to the bed stayed next to her holding her hand. The presence
welcomed him... and he felt greatly relieved. He could now see the
ghostly radiance flowing about Dreamspinner's prone form. The presence
began to materialize... and Fionnuala found himself staring into the
beautiful wise eyes of Moonmother Arn. "Great lady, I should have
guessed she was yours," he said reverently. Moira gently inclined her
head in acknowledgment, smiling at him,"Thank you for your help, child.
I can help her now." He felt the warmth of a mother's love flash through
him like fire, leaving a pleasant peace in it's wake.
Dreamspinner opened her eyes... and saw the beautiful face of her
mother. "Mother..," she said weakly. "Take of my light daughter," Moira
held her daughter close to her. Dreamspinner felt the healing energy
rush though her embattled psyche- mending the little tears that she did
not even realize were there. Fionnuala sighed in relief when he noticed
Dreamspinner's pale skin began to regain its normal hue and luminosity.
"My darling child- calmly now... ," hummed the three-voiced song,"Yes,
little one, you are safe now. I am here."

Meanwhile in Dreamspinner's cottage...
    Jareth still sat on the floor and glanced up at Eithne, "You want to
know what I saw...I saw how much of an unfeeling bastard I am. I would
never have shown those thoughts to Dreamspinner- I've held them captive
for hundreds of years...I forgot how sensitive she is- I was blinded by
my own need," he said softly, guiltily. "I have destroyed our
friendship." with that, he placed his head on his arms and shuddered
uncontrollably.
"You are lucky Gwydion did not gut you." Eithne stated.

    Jareth nods, confirming my statement. "As he well should."
I go to Jareth and pull him to his feet, my eyes (now back to aqua)
level with his. "But he will not. Dreamspinner would never forgive
such violence. Unnecessary at that." I pull him to a stool beside
Dreamspinner's loom, setting myself in front of it. "Jareth, you need a
new dream. One that Dreamspinner would never be able to weave for you."
    I begin work at the enchanted loom. In a basket near my feet, I notice
some stars leftover from the ones I had picked for the child. I cast
them into the shiny strands sparkling from the loom. Jareth watches in
amazement as I deftly weave a beautiful tapestry of gold and silver,
stars and moonlight. Tears fall softly down my cheek, but I'm careful
not to let those touch my work. I finish in short time and carefully
pull the finished product from the loom. I throw it up into the air,
and it lands as a crystal in my palm.
"How...?" Jareth's expression was bemused and startled. "I thought only
Dreamspinner..."
"She is a good teacher, but do not fear. This is the only dream I will
ever weave." I hold out the crystal, glowing a radiant blue, to
Jareth. "Look what I am offering you, Jareth. New dreams."
Jareth looks warily at my gift, smiling slightly at my choice of words.
He hesitantly takes the crystal from my hand, and it vanishes
instantly. I hold my breath, not knowing if my weaving is effective.
Jareth shakes his head as if clearing his mind of fogginess. He looks
at me strangely. "Where's Dreamspinner? Shouldn't we be finishing up
those wedding plans? She's not off romancing the wild with that
athletic husband of hers, is she?"
I shake my head, not quite convinced yet that I have done the right
thing...for Jareth...for Dreamspinner...for anyone. "No, she had some
emotional...uh...healing to take care of before the ceremony."

At that moment, Gwydion returns with a large kill thrown over his
shoulder. "I have more outside," he says without emotion. I quickly
approach the hunter and fill him in on the recent events. He nods his
head throughout my explanation, signaling his agreement with my
actions. "But what of Dreamspinner?"
"I go to the village now. I will return as soon as I have word." I
turn to leave and Gwydion grabs my hand.
"My wife is lucky to have a friend like you," he says and my heart
bursts with pride.
"Thank you, Gwydion. That means more to me than you could ever know."
I leave Dreamspinner's cottage, but look back briefly to see Jareth
assisting Gwydion with the meats. "I hope my gift heals your heart,
Jareth. And I hope it helps to heal Dreamspinner's as well."

I make it back to the village at light speed to find Fionnuala sitting
outside his lodgings. "What has happened? Why are you not with
Dreamspinner?"
He smiles peaceably at me. "No fear, love. Moira is with her now."
"Moira?" I feel a wave of overwhelming calm and serenity come over me.

"Come in, Eithne. Dreamspinner and I would like words with you," a silvery three-vioced song enveloped the two and gently pulled them inward. Eithne and her fiancé entered the room. The whole dwelling was lit
from within, a shining silver radiance coming from the two seated
figures on the bed. Both mother and daughter smiled at the two shy fae,
Dreamspinner giving a smile of glad welcome and Eithne felt the
gentle feather-light presence of her shining thoughts, 'Thank you Anam
Cara. You are not just my friend- you are my soul-sister.' Moira added to
her daughter's bright thoughts, sending feelings of peace and
tranquility to the two who stood reverently before her, 'You have chosen
well, my daughter.' Eithne and Fionnuala felt their faerie hearts
swell large with the blessings freely given by the two seated figures.
"Fear not, all has been mended. The court remembers nothing of the
incident," Dreamspinner said softly, her honey-sweet voice soothing any
remaining fears from them, "Why I believe we have a wedding to attend?"
Dreamspinner and her mother both stood- her mother captured her once
more in a tender loving embrace- then slid her hands down
Dreamspinner's shoulders to end up holding her hands. Mother and
daughter stood there for a bit, the air heavy with their unspoken
communication. Moira then let her daughter go, briefly touching her
child's cheek in farewell. She turned to the soon-to-be-married-couple,
her silver-bright thoughts gently encompass the two, 'You have my
blessing and thanks. May you always be happy, and may you never lack for
comfort.' Moira added softly, 'But please- discretion for my child's
sake... many would not understand her origins.' Fionnuala and Eithne
nodded in wordless assent. The look of maternal love never left Moira's
beautiful face as she faded into a shining mist and disappeared. Dreamspinner smiled and turned to the two saying brightly, "Well? Let's go!"                        

"I assume you know how I handled the situation?" I ask Dreamspinner.
She nods in response, then quietly adds, "Thank you. I would have done
the same thing." She grabs my hand and squeezes it affectionately.

We are soon at Dreamspinner's cottage. Gwydion is in the doorway and
runs to meet his wife with open arms. An aura of total, complete love
surround them, and Fionnuala and I smile and hug each other, only hoping
for half of that happiness.
Dreamspinner turns to Fionnuala. "Off with you! There's woman's work
to be done. Gwydion, dear, go with him with your preparations."
"What about Jareth?" the hunter questions.
"The Goblin King is no longer a worry to us, thanks to Eithne,"
Dreamspinner answers. "Besides, he must escort the bride to the
ceremony. He's supposed to be here."
Gwydion touches his wife's shoulder lovingly, her eyes telling him that
everything was, indeed, all in order now. With a hearty smile, he turns
and grabs Fionnuala. "Come, lad, and help me with the meat. It's round
back."

Dreamspinner and I enter her lodgings. Jareth is juggling crystals in
one hand and sprinkling something over them with the other. He stops
suddenly when he notices our presence. "Well, my beautiful red-haired
fae, shall I leave you two to dressing?"
We both nod, and Jareth waltzes out the door, no hint of the turmoil
that had recently transpired in his countenance. He's as happy as I
am. I walked to the trunk Jareth had brought and lifted my wedding gown
out. "Shall we begin?" I ask, my eyes twinkling like gemstones.

"Yes," Dreamspinner returns. "But first...I could not be more proud of you if you were my own, soul-sister." Dreamspinner's gentle voice hums with pride and love for her cara. She smiles impishly suddenly, and pulls out a package wrapped in a large folded blanket of dreamcloth from out of the empty air before Eithne's startled eyes. "Open it!" she playfully commands.
Eithne gently unwraps the shining parcel, marveling at the beauty of
the blanket. Inside was a elegant silver wand engraved with enter
twining orchids and roses. A small intricately worked oak box fell out,
and Eithne opened it to discover marvelous pieces of fine jewelry-
a beautiful necklace of aqua amethysts carved to resemble her favorite
flowers and a pair of matching earrings. Also within the box was
Dreamspinner's favorite bracelet- a stunning platinum creation wrapped
round with moonstones carved to resemble the phases of the moon and a
generous sprinkling of diamond stars. Eithne felt Moira's gentle
presence when she ran her stunned fingers over the piece. "Something old
is the wand, to aid you. Something new is the dreamcloth- to protect
you...just the right size to cover my precious ones," Dreamspinner
smiled sweetly," The something borrowed is the bracelet, for blessings.
The something blue is the jewelry, for friendship!" She finished with a
triumphant flourish. "Do you like your presents?" she asked gently,
looking almost shy as she peeks at Eithne through her thick lashes,
a slight blush coloring her luminous skin. Eithne nodded, unable to
speak. The gorgeous treasures were laid across her lap in shining heap.
"Oh- I have one more thing to do...The circle must be very special for
you tonight." and with that, she sprinted out of the cottage with
Eithne in hot pursuit.

Dreamspinner stood in the center of the circle- her eyes fast shut, arms
upraised toward the moon.... soon her body began to sway to a rhythm
none could hear. Her pace quickened, and she began to leap, twirl, and
spin in the complex maneuvers of her dance. Wherever her feet fell or
hands touched began to glow with an unearthly radiance, outlining the
spiral path the bride and groom were to take as they began their life
together as one. Dreamspinner's graceful form glowed with a brilliance
that was hard to look upon for long, but Eithne watched anyway,
enthralled by the silent beauty of the scene before her. Quite suddenly
she realized that she could see Dreamspinner's crystalline wings...which
were never visible before. Soon an antlered god who shone with green
fire joined the circle, keeping perfect pace and harmony. Eithne
realized with a start that it was Gwydion. The dancing couple, one
bright moonlight, the other green and earth, continued the dance-
flinging tiny stars to nest in the ancient oaks surrounding the glade.
Almost regretfully, their dance began to slow, then stop. Dreamspinner
looked up into her husband's eyes and said, "Yes, it is well done."

Chapter 4*************************

    I stand before the floor-length mirror, amazed at my reflection. "I
can't believe that's really me," I say, looking back at Dreamspinner.
She looks radiant in her simple silver gown, all aglow from the
preparations and the impending ceremony.
"Well it is, cara. A fitting visage of the future queen."
I blush, smiling kittenishly at my matron-of-honor. With Jareth's
magnificent gown and Dreamspinner's jewelry, I do indeed look like a
queen. I finish my dressing by wrapping my long tresses into a loose
bun and securing it with the wand Dreamspinner had given me. A knock at
the door startles me. Dreamspinner answers it and let in Jareth. She
quickly exits after him. Jareth's blue eyes glow in admiration.
"You look beautiful, Lovebug."
"Thanks, Hangnail." I hug him gently. I suppose they're waiting on
us."
"Just a minute. I got something for you and Fionnuala."
"Is that what you were working on when Dreamspinner and I interrupted
you earlier?"
Jareth nods. "A special wedding present for my favorite slyph faerie."
Crystals slide liquidly over his hands and melt into a crystal hand
mirror. "This," he begins, handing me the mirror, "is a means for
Fionnuala to be with you when you must venture Aboveground. He has not
that ability, as you are aware, and shall miss you greatly when you
fulfill your human duties. With this, he will be able to see you where
ever you are."
"This is...this is..." I cannot finish because of the emmotion flooding
through my already psyched body.
Jareth places and indedx finger on my quivering lips. "This is a happy
day. No need for tears. Shall we proceed?" He offers his arm, and I
accept graciously.

    Outside, there is a gathering of fae and other creatures lining the path
to the circle. Dreamspinner waits in front, then begins walking the
path to the faerie ring. Jareth and I follow. Soon we are upon the
clearing, and Dreamspinner and Gwydion's handiwork is amazing. Jareth
leans and kisses my cheeks, giving me to Dreamspinner. My eyes are wide
with amazement and anticipation.

Dreamspinner smiles and says, "So it begins..."

Dreamspinner glances around at the attending fae, her honey-gold
voice sweetly carries on the wind, "All things have their path and
destiny. Such is the cycle or circle of existence. In this circle today
we are here to honor two dear friends- and their commitment to one
another. As their feet tread the spiral path, let all remember what they
have chosen... to be one. Let our hearts rejoice with them, let our
songs herald them, let our joy unite them." Dreamspinner places her
fingertips on Eithne and Fionnuala's brow, the rush of her blessing
causing both to gasp. Dreamspinner smiles at her cara, and gently takes
her hand to rest it gently within Fionnuala's. Fionnuala squeezes
Eithne's hand affectionately, his cheeks glowing with pleasure. With
a impish twinkle in her teal-bright eyes, Dreamspinner dramatically
pulls a silver spider-silk ribbon from the air to wrap around their
joined hands, "What we have united, let none dare pull asunder!" She
then gently pulls them both forward into the center of the circle, where
the glittering outline of the spiral path awaits them. "Go now, and
begin the journey," she says sweetly, and the fae all begin to sing and
cheer in joyous welcome. The two lovers begin to gracefully track the
course laid out for them accompanied by wild strains of pipes, horns,
and hauntingly beautiful faerie voices. Slowly, wonderfully they make
their way to their table on the dais set up under the ancient
grandfather oak. Gwydion sounds his silver horn and all cheer wildly-
the dancing begins!
    Jareth watches all from the sidelines with misty eyes. He feels a tender
touch on his shoulder and turns to see Dreamspinner standing there
watching him with a certain amount of compassion in her beautiful eyes.
He gently takes her hands into his, "That was beautiful..." he says
softly. She smiles and almost blushes. "You're blushing! I can see it!"
he says triumphantly, "Well it was beautiful... so there." He pulls her
into his embrace, whispering softly, "I'm sorry I hurt you."
Dreamspinner glances up quickly, "You should not have even remember
it..."

"Great are my youngling's gifts... but not powerful enough to
make me forget such a wrong done to one I respect and love, as much as
one such as I can love, at any rate," he whispers as he hugs her
fiercely. She allows him to hold her for a moment then looks up into his
eyes and tenderly reaches out to touch his thoughts. He willingly opens
his mind to her, allowing her to see what he really feels, and she finds
that all is indeed well once more. She smiles suddenly, deftly pulls
away, and reaches into a small pouch at her waist for her silver pipes.
She impishly toots them at him then takes of running with Jareth in hot
pursuit. She's as fleet-footed as a young doe, taking him on a merry
chase through the revelers until they reach the table where the
newlyweds are enthroned. She skids to an abrupt halt, Jareth nearly
knocking them both over. "Hey! It's time for you to dance with your
foundling!" Dreamspinner elbows him none-to-gently in the ribs. "Ow!" he
said in mock-injury, "Well, Lovebug- the dancers await us..." Eithne
regretfully lets go of her husband's hand and joins Jareth, "I thought I
told you not to call me that, Hangnail?" Fionnuala shakes his head in
undisguised amusement as he watches the two of them heading for the
circle. A wide aisle parted among the sea of revelers for Jareth as he lead
Eithne into the circle. When he takes her into his embrace, the
dancing begins anew. "Well, Lovebug, I hope that you are very happy. I
wish you and Fionnuala the best."

"Thank you, Hangnail." Eithne softly retorts. She wonders when Fionnuala is going to rescue her from the goblin king's somewhat disturbing embrace.

    Gwydion moves to stand behind his wife, taking her into his arms ,
clasping her gentle hands in his. She sighs contentedly and leans
against him. "Want to dance, my sweet?" he asks her as he playfully
nibbles on the back of her neck. "Oh... yes...," she turns quickly in
his arms, to wrap her arms about his neck. He carresses her cheek
lightly with his fingertips, then gently traces the outline of her soft
cupid's bow lips. Unable to stand it any longer, she slides her hands up
into his hair and pulls him downward to kiss her deeply. Dreamspinner
gently touches minds with her husband, and as one they move on toward
the dancing and singing fae in the circle. Dreamspinner and Gwydion
sweep past Eithne and Jareth, and Dreamspinner catches Eithne's pleading glance.
She smiles sweetly in understanding and sends Gwydion to cut in on
Jareth. Gwydion is loath to let his wife go, but willing to rescue her
friend. Jareth wordlessly yields to Gwydion, and Eithne thankfully
joins the dance with him.
"So, Dreamspinner, are you going to dance with me?" Jareth says softly
as he watches Gwydion spin Eithne into the dance and toward the
awaiting arms of her new husband.
"Give me a good reason why I should, and maybe I shall." she says
impishly, her hands on her hips. He looks at her in shock, "What? Oh-
never mind. I forgot. You only share your dances with Gwydion."

"I do not think you truly understand what it means to dance with me,
Jareth." Dreamspinner sighs solemnly, "Ask the Fae in the circle. They
might tell you." Jareth stared at the flame-haired fae at his side and
began to wonder. He looked deeper, and began to see the silver-bright
colors of her aura... then recoiled in shock at what he saw. "Do not
push your understanding too far," she said quietly.
"I'll remember, but just one dance?" he asked. She held out her hand to
him, which he gingerly took, not really sure of what he'd gotten himself
into. They smoothly joined the ageless rhythm of the circle. Dizzyingly,
Dreamspinner's pace increased, and Jareth was having trouble keeping up
with her. She seemed a wild thing- pulling him deeper within the circle,
he could barely keep his hold on her. He looked into her eyes to find
fierce pleasure burning within them. The bright-happy thoughts of the
other dancers began to invade his consciousness. "Please- enough!" he
cried as he felt himself becoming one with the circle. She spun a very
unsettled Jareth into the arms of a more suitably sedate partner who was
dancing in the outer ring of the circle. "Sorry!" the burning-bright
presence of her mind quickly left him to his own thoughts of wonderment
at the nature of the creature he had briefly attempted to capture within
his arms. She then caught up with Gwydion, coming to rest within the
warm safety of his arms. Gwydion smiled down at his wife, her face was
delicately flushed from the heat of the dance, a red-gold curl tracing
her cheek. "Couldn't handle it, could he? Dare I say that I am the only
creature bold enough to keep pace with you, my love?"

"Maybe," she winked roguishly at her husband. He held his dear one close to him, even after many years of marriage he was still in awe of her. Dreamspinner delicately nuzzled her husband's chest, then turned to look up at him, "Dance?" she asked brightly. "Of course," he said smiling. They
laughingly rejoined the circle, much to the delight of the attending
fae.

    Under the grandfather oak, the newlyweds finally made it back into one
another's embrace. Fionnuala gave Eithne a sly smile, which she
returned, and together they slipped away quietly into the night. Their
eyes were only for each other, and their steps hurried toward
Fionnuala's dwelling. Fionnuala swept Eithne into his gentle-strong
arms and carried the giggling bride across the threshold. Once safely
inside and in the comfort of their flower bedecked bedroom, they moved
to the ancient rhythm of love, their senses totally occupied by their
own private merrymaking.

*************

    I rest in Fionnuala's arms, completely content. Any void that has ever
been in me is gone now. My husband has just fallen asleep after a full
night of amorous love-making. I am too excited to sleep, so I slip out
of Fionnuala's warm embrace, quickly dress and exit our cottage.
    The morning is brand-new, not just to the day, but to me as well. The
dew feels good on my bare feet, and a gentle Underground breeze blows my
unruly red mane about my face. Remembering something, I re-enter the
cottage, retrieve that which I desire and brush my hair before leaving
again. I blow Fionnuala a kiss from the doorway, then take to flight.
    No smoke rises from Dreamspinner's chimney, but I choose to knock at the door anyway. A pleasant, "Come in," beckons me to enter, and I find
Dreamspinner serving Gwydion breakfast. "You're up early...for a
newlywed," she snickers, Gwydion laughing with her.
"I'm surprised you're awake," Gwydion adds, pulling a chair up to the
table for me. "Fionnuala up too?"
"No," I shake my head. "He's...uh...very tired. But I'm too excited to
sleep!"
"I'd imagine," Dreamspinner smiles knowingly, pouring me a glass of goat's
milk.
"Oh, I almost forgot." I hand Dreamspinner her lovely bracelet. "Thank
you so much for letting me borrow it. And thanks for all the other
things you did to help with the wedding."
"Think nothing of it, mo cara. I am happy to do anything I can for
you."
"Really? Because I have another favor to ask of you."
Dreamspinner cocks her head. "What, Eithne?"
"Would you be a godmother?"
Dreamspinner's bright teal eyes widen to the size of lemons. I smile, a
great feeling of comforting warmth, and say, "I'm pregnant."

Dreamspinner grasped Eithne's hands, "Oh- to be so blessed! You are a marvel! Yes! Yes! I'd be more than honored to be the dreamchild's
godmother!" she was dancing in place, Gwydion winked at Eithne and
reached out to capture his wife and pulled her onto his lap, "Steady now,
bright-one! Save the dancing for later," he chuckled warmly.
"Ah- so there you are!" Fionnuala entered the cottage and smiled at
Gwydion and Dreamspinner. He went over to Eithne and wrapped his
arms about her protectively.
"Want breakfast?" Dreamspinner asked.
"No- don't get up. Gwydion might not like it." Fionnuala grinned hugely,
then ducked as a well-aimed dishcloth glanced his shoulder.
"You big silly!" Dreamspinner cried in mock-injury."Sit you down, and
have some breakfast... from what we heard last night- you need it!"
The two newly-weds blushed furiously, but they sat down at table with
Dreamspinner and Gwydion to a hearty breakfast.

*************

    Fionnuala and I sit at the kitchen table awaiting Dreamspinner and
Gwydion to return from fetching water from the nearby stream. My
husband gazes at me dreamily. "You look so different this morning,
Eire," he says, caressing my cheek. "You seem to be glowing. You llok
so much more beautiful than yesterday, if that's possible."
I blush a bright pink. "Oh, you sweet talker. You make me feel like a
queen."
"Well, you are one, you know. Or you will be some day."
"Yes, but I hope that day doesn't come for a long time. I've got others
things to attend to first."
"Like what?" Fionnuala is curious as to what could be more important
than ruling the Fae.
"Raising our family."
"Our family? But we don't have--" Fionnuala cuts himself off, an
excited smile blooming on his handsome face. "You're...pregnant?
Already?"
I nod happily. "Well, I can't help it you're so potent." I giggle and
move to Fionnuala's lap. He hugs me tightly, then sweeps me up into his
arms as quick as lightning, swinging me around in a circle.
"You have made me the happiest man in the Underground twice in one
week!" He kisses me deeply, then dashes out the front door, running
into Gwydion and Dreamspinner. He takes Gwydion's water bucket from him
and overturns it on his head. Dripping wet, Fionnuala grabs the hunter
by his broad shoulders and yells, "I'm going to be a father! We're
going to have a baby!" My elfin lord runs off into the forest toward
out village, presumably to give the good news to all. Dreamspinner and
her husband enter the cottage, contagious smiles on their faces.
"Well, that's a bucket of water wasted," Gwydion laughs, setting his
bucket on the table.
"Oh, no harm done, dearest," Dreamspinner returns, unable to quit
smiling. "Fionnuala's just excited. It's his first child."
"And what about you, Eithne?" Gwydion asks. "How are you feeling?"
"Blissfully happy. I don't think there's any other way to describe
it." I turn to Dreamspinner. "What will my pregnancy be like down
here? Is the same as on Earth?"

"Mostly....," Dreamspinner trails off, her gaze has turned inward.
Gwydion moves and stands behind his wife, his strong hands resting
lightly on her shoulders. She shakes her shining mane as if clearing her
mind of something. She smiles sweetly at Eithne, "I'll be with you." she
says softly. Eithne smiles warmly in return, "I'd have it no other way."
    Fionnuala returns triumphant to the cottage- a huge gathering of fae
attending him. Eithne, Dreamspinner, and Gwydion are called to come
outside. Fionnuala gently pulls his wife to him, and the attending fae
burst into cheers. "A dance! Dreamspinner, we simply *must* have a dance
tonight!" an enthusiastic fae called. Several cries of "Yes, a dance!"
swept through the throng. Dreamspinner smiles warmly at the young
couple, "Well?"

I nod excitedly. "I have so much energy running through me right now, I
could dance until the baby comes!"
"I hope you don't intend to, Eire," Fionnuala teases, taking my hands
and leading me to the circle.
I free one hand and grab Dreamspinner, who pulls Gwydion behind her.
She smiles, but not like she usually does, as if her mind is elsewhere.
"The preganancy will not be as long as an Earth pregnancy," she tells me
as we watch other fae dance merrily around us. "And fae births are very
difficult, but that's why I will be with you. And because you are a
dear cara."
A look of confused worry flushes my face. "Could I lose...the baby?"
Dreamspinner's compassionate smile returns. "Things of that nature are
always possible, Eithne. But you and Fionnuala have been blessed by my
mother. A single blessing in a family from the Moon Mother is rare, but
a double blessing? That is truly miraculous, and miraculous things will
happen for you, Fionnuala and your new elfling."
    My mind rests at ease because Dreamspinner would never lie to me. I
grab an outstretched arm from the faerie circle and join in the dance.
Upon the next turn I grab Fionnuala to join, who quickly takes Gwydion's
hand. The next time around, Dreamspinner is pulled into the dance, and
we are all laughing and enjoying the merriment. I feel a tiny movement
in my abdomen, and a warm, calming feeling envelopes me. The baby. I
had just felt the baby. Nothing could bring me down now...not even
Jareth!

************

    Dreamspinner carefully extracted herself from the dancing fae. She
silently slipped into the cottage, and ran her fingers along the cool
silver smoothness of the empty loom. 'There is something...' she thinks
to herself. Jareth chose to fly into the open window at that moment,
startling Dreamspinner from her reverie. "So, another party? Well,
what's it for this time? The flowers in your garden are blooming? The
glow-worms are glowing? Hmmm?" Jareth caught the look on her face and
froze, "What is it?"                                                                                 "Nothing... and don't you dare tra-la-la me!" Dreamspinner pouted at him, folding her arms across her chest. Gwydion strode into the cottage, "Well, Jareth, knew you'd be round eventually. But I'll let Eithne tell you the news," the handsome elf-lord seemed to take perverse pleasure in taunting him. Jareth smiled and bared his fangs. The two squared off in mock-threat. "Come on, kingie- I can take you!" Gwydion smiled evilly. Jareth circled around and warily eyed his opponant, "Really? If you believe that bit of fiction, my boy, you've been standing too close to Dreamspinner's loom."
"Boys!!!" Dreamspinner was getting worried, for her china couldn't
withstand another of their wars. Worse than brothers, they were. Eithne
and Fionnuala soon entered the cottage, which put the men's play at an
end. "Well?" Jareth demanded.                                              "I'm going to have a baby!" Eithne giggled, and Fionnuala placed a protective hand across her abdomen.                                                   "So soon?" Jareth was totally speechless. Eithne nodded a happy affirmative,
and he gently took her hand in his, "I'm very happy for you, Lovebug."
and he really meant it.
    Dreamspinner took the opportunity to set out refreshments for them all,
and then quietly took her seat on the bench by her loom. Jareth flopped
into his usual chair by the hearth, and Fionnuala pulled up a few chairs
for himself and Eithne. Gwydion joined Dreamspinner on the bench,
and she leaned back into his embrace. "Well, Eithne, are you going to
tell us a story?" Dreamspinner asked, hope sparkling in her teal-bright
eyes. Gwydion smiled lovingly at his wife and gave her a squeeze, "Come
now- I know you have a tale for us." They all looked at Eithne
expectantly.

********************

"Oh, I suppose you all want to know how Jareth brought me down here?"
All heads, except the Goblin King's, nodded excitedly. "You keep out of
this one, Jareth. This weaving is all mine..."

"As you all know, I live a double-life. My consciousness is not always
here Underground, as Fionnuala can attest to. I was born a faerie
thousands of years ago, but as it sometimes happens, I was born again a
mortal child. My fae parents feared for my life, as I was destined to
be a great sorceress, and felt it better to send me Aboveground than
chance my dying at the hands of a jealous rival. My life Aboveground
was normal by all accounts, but my mortal self, known as Aleeta, felt a
strange loss at all times, like being out of place. As Aleeta grew
older, Eithne grew more distant so the void in Aleeta grew greater.
Aleeta was unable to express herself and all her feelings. Magic just
happened around her without great effort. We are all aware that magic
is not an acceptable thing on Earth; it is feared. So Aleeta grew
frightened that she would be feared also because she could not control
her abilities. She seriously contemplated taking her life. That's when
Jareth stepped in. By bringing Aleeta Underground just one time, Eithne
was reborn again. And here I am! Aleeta still lives Aboveground and
functions quite notmally now with no threat of her magic popping up
because I live Underground and use her...excuse me...our magic without
worry. I don't understand why I can function all the time without
Aleeta's consciousness, but at times, Aleeta needs mine. And, of
course, I give it to her because she, through Jareth, gave me life
again. And I am eternally grateful."
"As I am also...and our child," Fionnuala adds, once again rubbing my
stomach protectively.
Jareth smirks playfully. "You give Aleeta more credit than you give
me."
I roll my eyes. "Just like a Goblin King to want all the focus to me on
him!"                                                                                                                

"So that was it... I often wondered." Dreamspinner mused, "I am glad you
intervened, Jareth." The goblin king swelled with pride at
Dreamspinner's calm praise.
Gwydion just couldn't let it be,"Peacock!" he shot at Jareth, an impish
smile darkening his handsome features. "You would know!" Jareth returned
fire.
"NO! I absolutely forbid any more fighting in this house! You almost
broke my loom beyond repair the last time!" Dreamspinner lashed out at
the guilty pair. They exchanged sullen looks. "Take it outside!" she
demanded, her hair whipping about her shoulders and eyes blazing green
fire.
"Woah...I'm headed for the trees- it's safer up there. You get to have
her all to yourself Gwydion!" and with an impudent flourish, Jareth
transformed into an owl and flew out the window, Gwydion hot on his
heels."Are you running from me, or yourself, Jareth?" Gwydion taunted.
The owl banked to the left and turned to answer the challenge. In a
flurry of feathers, the goblin king and Gwydion were locked in a
wrestling match. Neither man giving any ground, both straining- hands
locked in a terrible grip, eyes glaring ....until Gwydion slipped his
foot behind Jareth's and pushed him backwards to land hard on his
backside."That's not fair!" he cried. All watching the spectacle burst
into amused laughter. Jareth looked sheepishly about, but accepted
Gwydion's hand when he offered to help him rise. Then Jareth aimed a
punch at Gywdion's strong jaw- and missed. Gwydion raised an eyebrow,
and decked Jareth so hard, he sent him flying backwards to land in a
tangle of robes at the foot of Dreamspinner's rowan tree. "I yield!"
came the groan from the pile of robes. Fionnuala ran to the heap and
peered at the disgruntled goblin king. "Bad form, Jareth," he tutted,
then aided him to rise. Gwydion clapped Jareth heartily on the back,"How
about a flagon of mead?"

"Gladly," Jareth winced, ruefully rubbing his jaw. Dreamspinner and Eithne watched all of this from the safety of the cottage window. "Well, they'll be thirsty now for sure," Dreamspinner winked at her friend.

Chapter 5************As the liquor flows, so doth the toungue

    Eithne handed Fionnuala a goblet of mead. "Too bad you cannot partake
of this yourself, dearest," he started, "but you are living for two
now..."
"Oh stuff it, Fionnuala!" she retorted playfully. "Dreamspinner and I
would much rather watch you guys get lividly drunk and make jackasses of
yourselves." The expecting faerie nudged her seeming twin with her
elbow. "Eh, Dreamspinner?"
"Certainly," she smiled, pouring an ample amount of stout into Gwydion's
awaiting flagon. "It's much more fun to watch the fool than be the
fool."

    The evening started with drinks and chess, with the men playing avidly
while Eithne and Dreamspinner huddled nearby and talked of the coming
baby. After a few hours (and several goblets later), Gwydion, Jareth
and Fionnuala were...um...slushed to the gills. Dreamspinner shook her
head, a wary grin playing on her beautiful face, while Eithne giggled
incessantly.
"What are you laughing at, wench?" Fionnuala demanded, becoming
uncommonly forceful with his new bride.
Jareth lay his hand on the elfin lord's shoulder. "You shouldn't have
called her that," he warned a little too late. "She hates being called
'wench' more than 'Lovebug.'"
"Wench?" Eithne scowled, rising from her chair, ready to rip her
husband's tongue from his mouth.
Dreamspinner pulled on her arm. "Now, Eithne, you know it's the mead
and the collective testosterone speaking. Don't let Fionnuala's bravado
get to you. If you just let him be, he'll give you something to laugh
about for eons to come."
Eithne nodded and rejoined the loommate. "Nothing, Fionnuala," she
answered her husband drily. "It's just my maternal hormones kicking
in."
"That's what I thought," he returned, nodding at his chessmates
victoriously. "Now fetch me some more mead."
Eithne clenched her teeth. "Yes, dear." She leaded over to
Dreamspinner and whispered, "I don't how much more of this I can
handle."
"Your wait will be worth it...trust me."
   After Eithne had refilled everyone's glass and returned to her corner
with Dreamspinner, then men began to talk. Rather, they began to
boast. It started out a mere calcalation of all the "conquests" they
had respectively. Then it turned to comparison of equipment
(Dreamspinner and Eithne couldn't stop laughing during this discussion,
as all three men claimed the greatest endowment). Subjects changed with
every mead refill, which was often, then the hunter made a bold and
precocious remark.
"I know how to keep my woman in line," Gwydion slurred, his eyes as
foggy as his brain. Dreamspinner cocked her head and glared derisively
at her mate, but said nothing. "You have to let them know who's boss."
"Yeah!" Fionnuala agreed emphatically. Eithne rolled her eyes and shook
her head.
"You've got that right," Jareth interjected, nodding his head in
agreement.
"What would you know, Goblin King?" Gwydion challenged.
"Yes, Jareth," Fionnuala continued. "How could you ever expect to
handle women like Dreamspinner or Eithne when you can't even manage a 15
year old girl?"
Sting! "Well, as I hear it, Fionnuala, you used to suffer from a
little...um, how shall I put this...stamina problem? Can we say
premature eja--"
"SHUT UP, JARETH!" Fionnuala shouted. He attempted to slam his goblet
down on the table but missed it by about a foot and hit his knee
instead, crying out shrilly at the pain. Dreamspinner and Eithne
laughed as quietly as possible in the corner, not wanting to pull their
comedic relief's attention to them. "How long has it been since you've
even been with a woman, your studliness?"
"Oh now, Fionnuala," Gwydion butted in, barely sliding his flagon onto
the playing table. "You can't attribute Jareth's abstinence from lack
of appeal...Well, I don't know. Maybe you could!" Gwydion and
Fionnuala went into fits of hysterics, slapping the table top with their
fists and holding their sides. Eithne and Dreamspinner just snickered
and thanked the Fates that the men had forgotten about their presence so
that they could enjoy the mockery.

    Gwydion and Fionnuala continued to throw insults at Jareth, finding
strength (and more functioning brain cells) in numbers. Jareth just sat
brooding in his chair, and Eithne recognized the light in his ever cool
and calm eyes. "I don't know, Fionnuala," Gywdion chuckled. "Maybe
Jareth prefers the company of goblins to the company of women."
Jareth's eyes closed to slivers, his tone icy and malicious. "Yes,
maybe, Gwydion, but I certainly do not owe my freedom to a woman!"
The room went silent, and Dreamspinner's heart skipped a beat. Gwydion
rose from his chair, the look of death in his eyes. But before he could
move an inch toward the Goblin King, Eithne swung out her arm and spread
a veil of what appeared to be glittering dust over the three drunken
men. They fell asleep instantly, gently falling to the floor.
Dreamspinner looked at her cara strangely. "How did you do that?"
"I don't know, but I'm sure glad I did. It was getting just a little to
hot in here."
Dreamspinner nodded. "While inebriated men are always great sources of
humor, ther is always that chance that things will get nasty."
"And that they did. But I'm glad I got that tidbit about Fionnuala's
endurance!" Eithne giggled coyly. "That could prove to serve a
purpose in the future."
Dreamspinner laughed at her crafty friend. "Shall we clean up these
fools' mess while they're out of action?"
"Probably easier to do it now than later."

    Dreamspinner and Eithne set to righting the chaos the trio of drunks had
created. As they stood at the wash basin, Dreamspinner said, "We really
should research what you experienced tonight, Eithne. This could be
very important."
The slyph farie nodded. "I suppose you're right. But where do we
start?"
"Oh, yes. Let's see- I know that your potential gifts are great indeed-
but that feat was most impressive. You threw a dream-veil over them. Not
many can handle that potent substance," Dreamspinner smiled warmly at
her cara. She indicated the table in the kitchen, and the two fae sat
down. "You might find your gifts revealing themselves with greater
frequency as your pregnancy progresses. Your ties to this world are
strengthening as the babe in your womb grows, mo cara."
Eithne gazed in wonder at the small bulge beginning to form on her
abdomen. She could feel her long-dormant powers radiating throughout her
being, "Yes," she said simply. Dreamspinner took her friend's hands into
her own, "I'm here for you, whenever you need me, just call. I'll help
you in your awakening as much as I can." The two women sat there for
awhile and shared a bit of peace before the menfolk would awaken,
Dreamspinner carefully teaching Eithne how to focus her blooming powers
and how to call it and bend it to her will.
Dreamspinner turned to gaze at the three men slumped in the chairs by
the hearth, "I'm going to make sure that none of them remember what was
last said, dear. Watch this." she delicately made her way to the
unconscious men. She gently smoothed Jareth's wild hair back from his
brow, and planted a kiss on his forehead. Eithne could feel the power
emanating from Dreamspinner's fair form. Apparently, so could Jareth,
who murmured in his sleep and reached out to catch the woman at his
side. "Oh no you don't..," Dreamspinner easily evaded his uncoordinated
grasp and moved on to the next man. "Mo cara- would you like to take
care of Fionnuala? Or shall I?"
Eithne grinned, "Go right ahead."
Dreamspinner smiled seraphically, and kissed Fionnuala's brow. She then
moved to Gwydion, but the kiss she gave him was planted firmly on his
lips. He smiled peacefully in slumber and reached out and caught her in
his strong grasp. He hugged her like she was a favorite toy from
childhood, all but curling up around her. "I think he's going to purr,"
Dreamspinner giggled from her position on Gwydion's lap. Eithne started
laughing at that, and couldn't stop- the thought of Gwydion purring!
Jareth slowly opened his eyes and moaned, "Could you do that outside?
I'm hurting here!"
"It's your fault you have a hangover." Dreamspinner retorted.
"Hmmm, I expected a bit of compassion from you," he sniffed indignantly
looking about, "What? Nothing broken? I expected at least a few drops of
blood on the floor...," he said smiling impishly at Dreamspinner.
"Ha! You three had a good time of it. Eithne and I can bear witness to
that, Mister." Dreamspinner retorted, playfully shaking her finger at
him. Gwydion frowned sleepily and opened his eyes, "Hmm? What's going
on?" Dreamspinner gently shushed him, running her fingers through his
tangled curls. He looked into her eyes with quiet adoration, a smile on
his lips.
Jareth made a sour face, "Now I am going to be sick!" Dreamspinner
raised an eyebrow at him and he smiled wolfishly.
Fionnuala startled suddenly awake and said "Where's Eithne? I want
Eithne." Eithne giggled and went over to him. "I'm right here."

Chapter 6******************Unto the Castle

"I'm glad you and Gwydion agreed to come with Fionnuala and me to the
castle," Eithne thanked Dreamspinner. "I haven't spent a long time with
Fionnuala's parents and might need your assistance since you've lived
Underground much longer than me."
Dreamspinner smiled. "Ah, yes, but I'd like to point out that,
theoretically, you are MUCH older than I."
Eithne threw a pillow at Dreamspinner. "You're getting to be as bad as
my husband. He says that all the time too. Last time he said it, I
practiced my magic and took away his voice. What shall I do to you?"
"I yield!" Dreamspinner held up her hands in surrender, laughing gently.
Gwydion entered the cottage and carefully picked up Dreamspinner's
solidly-crated loom. "Is that everything?"
Dreamspinner nodded and turned to Eithne. "Shall we be on our way to
the Fae castle?"
Eithne shuddered playfully. "Ugh...in-laws."
"Eithne!" called Fionnuala from outside Dreamspinner's cottage. "Hurry
up. My parents are expecting up before nightfall."

    Dreamspinner wistfully glanced about her cottage, trying to remember
if she had forgotten anything. One of the sleeves of the tunic she was
wearing unfolded and fell past her slender hand. Absently, she refolded
it. Gywdion came up behind her and hugged her tightly against him.
"Pilfered my shirt, did you?" he chuckled. His shirt hung almost past
her knees, making almost a short dress. Her black leggings and soft
leather boots complimented the black silk tunic nicely. "Should I add to
it?" she asked playfully, and embroidered silver moons and stars
suddenly appeared around the collar, hem, and sleeves, which now fit her
perfectly. "Show-off." he chuckled, "Come dearest, it's time to go.." he
gently lead her to the door. She stopped suddenly, turning around to
face him, "Are the rest of your hunters coming too?"

"Yes, of course. Why?," he asked puzzled. "Nothing...just, oh, nothing... I'm glad they are going with us," Dreamspinner smiled up at her mate. Gywdion caressed her cheek and then calmly climbed the stairs to retrieve his antlered
helm and his sword. He did not know what was concerning his wife, but
her hunches were never wrong. As they walked outside, he sent a mental
command to his men to be sure they were all well-armed. After receiving
their affirmative replies, he assisted his wife to mount. Fionnuala rode
up beside them and noticed Gwydion's wary expression.
"What is it?" Fionnuala asked, "should Eithne ride with me?"
"No, she'll be safe enough with six of my men to protect her. And we
don't want to risk the babe- the coach is much safer." Gwydion smiled
reassuringly at the young elf-lord.
"Yes, of course." Fionnuala concurred, then moved to the side of
Eithne's coach.
Dreamspinner closed her eyes and concentrated. The air around the
cottage grew thick with warding spells and dreamthreads, "There. I feel
much better now." Eithne felt her own blossoming powers surge in
response to the powerful magic that was just invoked. The babe kicked,
and she placed a gentle hand on her abdomen. Eithne peeked out of the
window of her own private exquisitely appointed coach that Dreamspinner
had conjured up for her, "Dreamspinner, are you sure you don't want to
ride in here with me? It would be more comfortable."
Dreamspinner shook her shining locks, spilling them from the confines of
her riding cloak's hood, "No, dear one, I will ride with Gwydion. It is
much safer for you if I do."
Eithne considered protesting for a moment, but Fionnuala gave her a
quick worried glance, and she subsided, "Well, if you think so."
Gwydion smiled at her and ordered the caravan onward.

    Despite the rough road, Eithne's ride was a smooth as silk. Her keen
aqua-blue eyes constantly darted outside the coach, and Fionnuala,
Dreamspinner, Gwydion and his men were never far from her line of
vision. She was greatly enjoyed being pregnant and was showing quite a
bit for only a few weeks.
"Fae pregnancies move much faster, mo cara," Dreamspinner had informed
her. "No nine months down here!"
Feeling wonderful and quite magical, Eithne piddled with her new-found
talents in the coach. She had already furnished the baby's nursey back
at the cottage, rearranged the upholstery in the coach and, unbeknownst
to him yet, changed all of Jareth's wardrobe to vibrant colors like hot
pink, neon green and electric blue.

    The baby was happily stirring in her uterus. Doing somersaults, by her
assumption. Suddenly, a black cloud swept over her aura, chilling
Eithne to the bone. She quickly looked out the coach and saw that
Dreamspinner's expression matched her own. There was trouble up
ahead...

   Dreamspinner reflexively tightened her grip around Gwydion's waist. He
patted her trembling hands, then squeezed them, sending her comforting
thoughts. He sent out the warning to the other hunters, then silently
slid his dark blade from its scabbard. "If it goes badly, dearest- I
want you to transport yourself and Eithne out of harm's way...promise
me," his voice was as cold and unbreakable as tempered steel.
Dreamspinner shivered, but did not answer him. He foolishly took this as
her assent, and squeezed her hands once more.
Dreamspinner felt the tell-tale aura of Bane, King of the Unseelie
court. So, he had come for her again.... foolish elf! She would not let
him off so easily this time. Dreamspinner's smile was darker than her
husband's sword.
Suddenly, the riders were enveloped by a thick fog. Shades and shadows
shrieked within it. Gwydion struck out with his blade, and many fell
before him. Dreamspinner clung to her husband, augmenting his powers
with her own. The hunters and Fionnuala who were guarding Eithne found
themselves not even harassed by the creatures. They were most definitely
being avoided, as they were not the focus of the onslaught. The shadows
remained the thickest around Gwydion and his pale lover, and the
huntsmen around the couple were battling the horrid creatures
furiously. Bane rode up, mockingly inclined his head to Fionnuala and
Eithne, then rode into the shadows. A more-than-furious Eithne tried to
bolt from the coach, but was restrained by a frantic Fionnuala. They
watched in horror as the scene unfolded before them. With a triumphant
yell, Bane tore Dreamspinner from her place behind Gwydion, pulling the
startled woman into his exuberant embrace. Gwydion turned in the saddle,
and raised his sword to strike, but Bane held Dreamspinner in front of
himself like a shield, knife at her pale throat, his dark eyes daring
Gwydion to move. Gwydion glared at the Unseelie king in impotent rage,
and Dreamspinner caught Gwydion's glance and held it, wordless
communication flowed between the two.
Bane had forgotten one important thing- The goblin king also rode the
winds with this entourage. In a flurry of feathers, Jareth transformed
close to the struggling pair. He calmly stepped into the shadows, "No
you don't, Bane... You'll not take her. I forbid it!"
"Brother, you forbid me? Ha!" Bane sneered.
The goblin king's eyes shone with a terrible light... and Bane, Jareth,
and Dreamspinner disappeared. Gwydion howled in anguish, and took out
his vengeance on the rapidly fleeing phantoms.

************

    Dreamspinner struggled in Bane's grasp, finally kneeing him in the
groin. He let her go with a startled yelp, dropping his knife. She
quickly took in her surroundings- they were in Jareth's throne room.
Jareth was suddenly by her side, pulling her farther away from the
silently-cursing Bane, his worried glance almost sent her into a fit of
hysterical giggles. He put himself between them.
"Jareth... How dare you interfere!" Bane snarled in frustration, still
bent over from Dreamspinner's attack, " Give her to me now."
"No. She is not mine to give. When are you going to get some common sense, boy? How many warnings do you need before you heed them?" Jareth's calm but sarcastic voice cut through the tension building in the room. The goblins had long since fled the scene. Dreamspinner's teal-bright eyes glimmered as she peeked over Jareth's shoulder. Bane did not like what he saw in them, and took an involuntary step backwards. Dreamspinner slid around Jareth,
squeezing his hand tenderly as she passed. He looked about to protest,
but something in her eyes forestalled him. She calmly glided up to Bane
and looked deeply into his eyes. He tried to break the almost intimate
contact, but her gaze was too powerful. Her golden mind blazingly
touched his, and she asked him, "Is this what you want of me? Do tell."
He felt his resolve crumble beneath her mind-touch. "Again, I tell you-
You cannot handle me, pup. It takes a very strong consciousness to
withstand my touch. You see, you would have to be willing to give
yourself *totally* to me...something you are not capable of,"
Dreamspinner stated matter-of-factly, "What am I to do with you now? You
keep bothering me and mine, which is unforgivable."
Jareth spoke up, "Let me deal with him... he is my brother, and I'd rather enjoy it." He smirked suddenly, "Give himself totally, huh? Heh... Really, Dreamspinner, you are a taxing mistress."
"I'll deal with you later, feather-brain," she shot back, and sent her
thoughts to him that the whole episode was really getting tiresome.
Jareth's smirk grew bigger, which made Bane glance about nervously.
"No... I must do it, as distasteful as it may be," Dreamspinner sighed
again, and Bane saw something akin to deep sorrow in her beautiful eyes.
Things were not going according to plan. He whimpered as Dreamspinner
touched his temples lightly. With a blast of power, he forgot everything
about her and Gwydion. He even forgot himself.
The lone monk startled awake. Such wonderfully vivid dreams he had.
Sighing, he took up his tools to finish carving the little animals the
children so loved.....
Dreamspinner and Jareth watched him silently from the shadows. With a
sigh of regret, her eyes brimming with unshed tears, she turned and
buried her face in Jareth's chest. He gently stroked her bright hair,
holding her tightly to himself as they faded into a shimmering mist and
were gone.

***********

    "I guess we should be getting back," Dreamspinner told Jareth, her tired
expression revealing more distaste and displeasure than words ever
could. "The others must be so worried."
"Not Eithne, I bet. Peering in on us, no doubt. She is a powerful
creature now." Jareth turned toward the stairs. "I wish to change
before we return. I won't be but a minute."
Within several seconds, the entire castle shook with the Goblin King's
piercing cries. He ran down the stairs and into the throne room wearing
hot pink tights, a fluorescent yellow poet's shirt, a neon green
waistcoat and psychedelic purple boots. It was all Dreamspinner could
do to keep from laughing hysterically at Jareth.
"What the Hell happened to my clothes?!?" he exclaimed, panting and
wheezing. "Did Eithne have something to do with this?"
Dreamspinner just shrugged her shoulders, unable to speak for fear that
it might just come out as a burst of raucous laughter.
With an aggravated sweep of his arm, Jareth returned his attire to its
original colors of dark browns and grays. "That faerie will be the
death of me!" he swore. "Follow me, Dreamspinner. We can go now."
    Silently waking behind Jareth, she followed him into a bright portal of
light and found herself on the forest path she had recently been
abducted from. Their party still remained, waiting vigilantly for its
missing members' return. Gwydion hugged Dreamspinner fiercely. He
never really feared for Dreamspinner; she had always handled Bane with
no problems. He just hated being away from her.
Eithne fluttered to her weavemate's side and embraced her gently. "I
felt Bane's presence. I'm sorry I could do nothing."
"Think nothing of it, cara," Dreamspinner smiled, patting Eithne's
hand. "I saw you tried, but your overly-protective husband dissuaded
you. I have no doubt you could have reeked chaos upon Bane and his
men."
Eithne smiled victoriously. "Indeed I did." She pointed Dreamspinner's
attention to a small clearing by the faerie princess' coach. Fionnuala
guarded and small band of men bound together like a chain gang with a
formidably strong gossamer cord. Where once had been cruel, dark
subjects of the Unseelie Court now stood jesters. Each warrior's armor
had been exchanged for a silk tunic and tights in vibrant, eye-sore
colors and the weapons traded for children's baubles.
The pent-up laughter deep in Dreamspinner could no longer remain
captive. She flailed in wild hysterics, rolling on the soft grass and
holding her aching sides. Tears dripped down her ever-lovely face.
Jareth joined the two fae women. When he saw what Eithne had done to
Bane's men, his suspicions about her connection to his wardrobe
catastrophe were confirmed.
"What is it with you and these gaudy colors?" Jareth asked. "Is it a
pregnancy thing?"
Eithne snapped her fingers, returning the Goblin King's clothing to its
former outrageous colors, and said simply, "Yes."
Seeing Jareth's metamorphosis, Gwydion and his huntsmen fell into
boisterous laughter. "Good Heavens," Gwydion gasped between fits of
chuckles. "It's good to have someone around who makes sport of annoying
Jareth."
Eithne bowed over-dramatically to her admiring audience.
"Ahem," Jareth interrupted.
Eithne sighed. "Spoilsport." She waved her hand and restored his
clothes. "At least I have my Unseelies!"

MORE TO COME>>>>>>>>>>>>>

Weavings Part 2