“Slut,” Destiny retorted.
“Venus is flirting with Vlad.”
“Bitch.”
“Morgana La Faye and Merlin are arguing over in the corner.”
“Psycho.”
They were still laughing as they reached Mother Nature’s dais where she was talking with Rocque who moved aside at their approach, but didn’t leave as both had hoped.
Bowing, they waited for Mother’s nod of permission before rising.
“Daughters.” Mother’s eyes searched the crowd.
“Mother, you are looking beautiful as usual.”
“Where are your daughters?” Mother Nature turned her icy glare toward her disobedient subject. “It was my wish that they come.”
“They have their duties—” Fate began before being rudely cut off.
“Cut the crap, Fate. We all have important duties. You refused to bring them because you want them kept at home, under your thumb.”
Fate stiffened at her friend’s censure. “That’s not true. They leave the safety of our home frequently, but—”
“Be quiet! We both know you did not bring them because you try to hide them away from the other immortals. Their beauty is well known, so you try to hide them for no reason. You of all should know this.”
“They are still young, needing guidance—”
“Your daughters are centuries old.” Mother’s eyes narrowed. “Beware, Fate, the arrogance which you and your sister are so quick to judge others of could be your downfall.”
Fate became rigid at Mother’s harsh words. “Are you warning me, Mother?”
Mother Nature sighed. “Fate, you and Destiny are headed for a rude awakening if you do not change your ways. I have spoiled you both, so I must also take responsibility for your attitude. But I am giving you fair warning. I won’t tolerate your disobedience much longer.” Mother Nature now included both women in her glare.
“What have I done? I have no children to bring.” Destiny smirked at her sister, for once glad she hadn’t brought their friend’s displeasure down upon their heads.
“And that is another bone of contention with me, Destiny. Your failure to provide me with additional children. You know the world desperately needs your daughters, yet you have failed to provide them. May I ask just what you are waiting for?”
Destiny shrugged. “I am not ready to become a wife or a mother.”
“Do you know who the father will be?” Mother Nature questioned.
“I do not,” Destiny replied. “You know we cannot see our own future.”
“Yes, but I am beginning to believe you have a suspicion of who he is.”
Destiny shrugged again, not quite meeting Mother’s eyes. “He is immortal. I am an immortal. There is plenty of time.”
Mother Nature grew rigid in fury. “You dare to be glib with me?”
Destiny knew when she had gone too far.
“I apologize, Mother. I didn’t mean to sound glib.”
“Daughter, do not apologize to me unless you mean it. Be very careful, Destiny. There is one who wants you badly enough to not fear you or your sister’s powers.”
Fear glinted briefly in Destiny’s eyes before she quickly hid it behind her usual sarcasm. “I can’t believe anyone would be that stupid.”