Mab shook her head. She never would have thought both her sons would go against her wishes.



Finally, as the sun was setting over the buildings, the Queen of Shopping decided they were finished. "Well," her temporary faery godmother said brightly as they departed the store, "we have your clothes, your shoes, and your accessories. Now, the real fun begins."

" theres more? " She said with a groan.

"Your hair, my dove. It's just...not good. And your nails. They need help. Fortunately, its almost time for the spa to open."

(xD)

" I think my hair and nails are fine. "

"And though once the actual queen is in rule the iron kingdom will become heavily better, I doubt you'd appreciate your kid being murdered in the process."

Leanansidhe shook her head at Lise's naivete. "Come now. I know Ben will be dying to meet you."

Natural Earth Salon and Spa was crowded tonight. They passed a pair of giggling sylphs on the pebbled path to the salon. Petite and delicate, their razor-edged wings buzzing softly, they grinned at them as they walked by, teeth glinting like knives. A Winter sidhe, tall and cold and beautiful, brushed by them as they stepped through the door into the waiting area. A trio of piskies landed in Lise's hair, laughing and tugging, until Leanansidhe gave them a look and they buzzed out the door. Inside, the lighting was dim, the walls hewn of natural stone, giving it a cavelike feel. A marble fountain with fish and mermaids bubbled in the center of the foyer, filling the room with the cheerful sound of running water. Orchids and bamboo flourished in natural planters, and the air was warm and damp.

Mab nodded slowly, taking it all in. "Yes."

She thought the place was quite nice, for a spa, even if she didn't like the humidity.

A blond, well-dressed satyr welcomed Leanansidhe with a kiss on both cheeks, before turning to Lise with a dazzling smile.

"Ah, so this is the princess I've heard so much about," he gushed, taking her hand to press it to his lips. "Shes absolutely adorable. But--" and he glanced at Leanansidhe, "--I can see what you mean about her hair. And her nails." He shuddered and shook his head. "Well, leave it to me. We'll have her looking fabulous in no time."

"Work your magic, Ben," Leanansidhe said, wandering away toward a back door. "I'll be with Miguel if you need me, darling. Lise, dear, just do what Ben says and youll be fine." She waved her hand airily as she sauntered through the door, and was gone. Ben turned to her and clasped his furry hands. "Well, sweet-cakes, youre in luck. We have the rest of the evening booked for you."

"Which is why I would like to tell you the prophecy; it might help you find a way to convince him to stop."