Labyrinth Pt. II

35. Friends In Low Places

I need to go home. I can't stay here. I have a life at home. I worked hard for my place back there. I looked out the window of my room in the redecorated castle. I finished my nap a while ago. I awoke with energy and questions that still needed to be sorted.

The fall colors of the land and soft breeze complimented the happy cheers and laughs that were carried to me. The people were happy to be free and back in their homes. Gone were the short, angry goblins, and in their place were beautiful citizens with pure smiles, their ears pointed like their teeth, and their eyes twinkled with their natural mischievous nature.

Home had none of this joy. Yes, it had my work, my students, and my routine. Familiar.

What do I know of this place? Nothing! The last time I was here I had to win my Toby back! This visit hasn't been that great either. I almost lost everything. I started to doubt myself. Over what? A man with a power complex times two, and a bratty, spoiled-rotten child who never learned what the word "no" meant. If I don't have myself to rely on, who do I have, truly?

I step away from the festivities happening outside the window and sit on the bed.

"Fancy a chat?" A small voice offers.

"Mr. Worm..." I smile weakly. "Have you gone to see your misses and children? I'm sure they would be waiting for you with eagerness."

"I've checked on 'em." He smiles and nods his head. "Misses wanted me to come back to thank ya."

"Oh, that isn't needed. I helped where I could, but your King was the one pushing to save this place." His earnest smile and soft voice made my eyes water.

"She wanted me to also remind you of your welcome to visit and have some tea." He leaned forward on the nightstand where he rested to catch my eye. "What do you say, girl?"

"Oh, Mr. Worm. I am so confused." I let go and cry out my thoughts. "How can I stay here? A place with no fond memories, and filled with dangers and strangers? I know nothing of this place but the dark parts. My home is waiting for me. I have responsibilities. People counting on me."

"Aye. That is quite a situation. For what counts, we aren't all strangers or dangers to you." He gave a half smile. "If you got to know what things are really like, you might find it is more familiar than first thought. I know I'm just a worm, but I can tell ya this with confidence. You belong here, girl."

"You are kind. I am grateful to have known you. You are a true friend; one I trust completely." I softly petted his head and adjusted his scarf. "I just don't feel the same. I don't think I belong here. This isn't home."

"I won't tell you what to do. Tis your job. Know that you always be welcome in my home and my family will always be here. You are a fine friend as well." He nods in goodbye and wiggles to his way home.

I wipe my tears and take a breath. I know Jareth is waiting for me to make my decision. He has been surprisingly patient. I knew a time where he would have rushed me and pressed for my answer.

That thought made me smile. I am not completely sure that he has changed. I am not convinced if he is a friend, but he has shown himself to be reliable. He saved me and did what he could to keep me safe. He was the one to put me in the way of danger, but I also gave no room for negotiation in my coming here.

I laid down to look up at the ceiling. I lost a friend too. Hoggle was swallowed cruelty and allowed his bitter mind to freeze his heart. He turned on his home. I wasn't here to help him stay sane. I was gone. I left a friend to fall to his demons. A new round of tears ran in to my hair and on to the blanket.

A knock on the main door brought me back in to the present, from my mind. I sat up and fixed myself to be presentable. It was time to face the king and I new my answer.