(Untitled)

[barn_owl_king]

Jareth is lounging on one of the couches, sipping a glass of wine.

Ages ago, when he had been a mere Goblin Prince, he had always gotten excellent marks in lounging. His tutor had often praised him for his style and languor. He has only gotten better at it as time has passed.As long as he stays entertained, he stays young and strong; it's only

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[coreenfennel]

And lo, Coreen and her unfortunately dressed baby are sitting not far from the Goblin King, though she's not noticed.

Poor Evan and his red and white striped onesie!

[coreenfennel]

Coreen really can't look him in the face as she chuckles. She can only imagine Hedwig's company with Jareth, and her level of enthusiasm.

"She's a good hearted person, and she deserves the best after what life has thrown her."

She rocks the baby in her arms.

"I'll let you know. Question...does it have to be a baby or can you take adults?"

[barn_owl_king]

What he himself has thrown her was probably not the best. Best not to mention that.

"Babies, mostly, and young children--past a certain age, they can't be turned. People do give us adults also; again, not as many as they used to. But they can't be changed into goblins. They serve the kingdom in other ways."

[coreenfennel]

Other ways.

"I'd imagine you'd need company other than goblins."

Politic answer? Check.

"I'll definitely keep that in mind if I need some place to send someone without outright killing them."

[barn_owl_king]

"Of course. Goblins are... well, they're goblins. I care about my subjects, but they're not exactly ideal company."

[coreenfennel]

She tilts her head down slightly, and looks up at him. "What sort of company is ideal?"

If she could help herself, she would.

[barn_owl_king]

"Something a bit more... human-sized and -shaped. With a good sense of humor, an appreciation for music... and a lot of energy. That never hurts to have."

[coreenfennel]

She nods.

"That, I can understand. Sometimes you need people around that you're a bit more....compatible with?"

[barn_owl_king]

"Compatible," he says with a chuckle. "Yes, that's one word for it."

[coreenfennel]

She smiles a bit. How could she not?

"A king, I suppose, would need good service."

[barn_owl_king]

"I feel that I've earned it," he says. "It's one of the perks of the job, you could say."

[coreenfennel]

"Of course."

There's a slight quirk to Coreen's mouth as she looks at her son.

"But the service, if as you say, isn't getting as varied anymore, must be tiresome for you."

[barn_owl_king]

"...well, when a man has the power to fulfill all his standard needs and wishes, and there's no challenge to it, non-standard desires tend to take their place," he murmurs. "The novel, the... exotic."

[coreenfennel]

The knot forms in her belly as she shivers a little.

She may have just had a baby less than a week ago, and she may be completely in love with Joe...but...the call of the Area...

"And what do you find exotic?"

[barn_owl_king]

The Area is irresistible. Joe would understand.

"A challenge," he answers after a moment, looking her up and down in that way he has of melting lesser mortals.

[coreenfennel]

It catches her breath. She really can't help it. She smiles, but can't look him in the eye.

"I'm sure you'll find quite a few challenges here, Your Highness."