The Last Faerie Princess

 

©2004 by Sandi Walker

This is a work of fan fiction.

KISS and their families are used for

entertainment only and no offense is intended. 

Other characters are copyright of the author

and should not be used without her permission. 

 

 

CHAPTER 1

 

KISS was going to be performing a concert in Ireland.  Despite Gene Simmons’ aversion to vacations, he and Paul Stanley decided they, along with their families, would arrive a few days early so they could have a mini vacation and see a little bit of the country. 

 

Doc McGhee had arranged for them to have a private castle in which to stay.  It was known as Castle McGregor. 

 

Due to some cancelled interviews, Gene and Paul had extra time on their hands so they decided to leave for Ireland a few days ahead of schedule.

Upon arriving at Shannon Airport, a limousine picked them up and they began their journey to Castle McGregor.  The limousine drove far into the country, passing town after town.

 

“Are we going to be there soon?” Sophie and Nick had each taken turns asking this question earlier so by the time Evan asked the question the adults were tired of hearing it.

 

“We will be there soon.  It does seem to be out in the middle of no where.” Replied Paul with a sigh.

 

Finally, the limousine pulled up to the large castle. They all got out, each stretching and taking in their new surroundings. 

 

As Gene and Paul went to the door, Sophie looked out over the large green meadow and watched in shock as she saw a cloaked figure gliding into the forest.  Stranger still, as the cloaked figure approached the trees they seemed to part and let the figure through.

 

Sophie went running to her dad, "Daddy, Daddy, look, what is that?" she asked as she pointed toward the forest.

 

By the time Gene turned around the cloaked figure was gone. 

 

"What is it Sophie, I don't see anything."  Gene looked at his daughter as she looked back and forth between her father and the trees all the time continuing to point.

 

Paul paid no attention this exchange as he knocked on the door of the castle.  There was no answer.  He knocked again and waited, still there was no answer.  He turned to Gene, "Are you sure we are in the right place?  Nobody seems to be home"

 

"This is where the driver brought us.  He was supposed to know where we were going."  Gene responded now as uncertain as Paul.

 

“We did arrive early,” added Shannon.  “Doc did call them and tell the owners of the change in plans, didn’t he?”

 

Paul knocked one more time and was greeting by a gray haired woman who appeared to be in her sixties.

 

"Can I help you?"  The woman asked.

 

"I am Gene Simmons and this is Paul Stanley.”  Gene jumped in.  “Our manager, Doc McGhee, made a reservation for us to stay here with our families."

 

"Oh, you are early."  A concerned tone entering the woman’s voice.

 

"Yes, I am sorry for the inconvenience.  Doc was supposed to notify you.” Gene answered.  “Will this be a problem?"

 

Paul was starting to worry.  Had they come all this way and not have a place to stay?

 

The woman fidgeted nervously.  "Well, I suppose it will be all right.   Come in. I will get my husband."

 

Gene, Paul, Shannon, and the kids followed the woman inside the castle.  They were greeted by an older gentleman as they entered the foyer.

 

"How do you do?  I am Michael McGregor.  And you have already met my wife Kathryn."

 

"How do you do" replied Gene.  "I know we are a few days earlier than you expected.  I hope this will not cause a problem for you both.  Doc McGhee was supposed to notify you of the change in our plans."

 

"We do not always get our messages, being so far from town.  But it should not be a problem." Mr. McGregor said.  "We were not expecting you today, but your rooms are ready.  Kathryn, why don't you show our guest to their rooms and I will see about their bags."

 

"Please follow me." Kathryn addressed the group. 

 

They all followed Kathryn through the foyer and past the library to the large staircase.  Gene and Paul exchanged glances as they both noticed that Kathryn appeared to be nervous as she showed her guests to their rooms.

 

Kathryn opened the door to a large bedroom of the left.  "Mr. Simmons, this room will be for you and Miss Tweed.  Right across the hall will be Sophie's room and next to that is Nicholas' room." 

 

Kathryn continued on to the next room and opening the door, "Mr. Stanley, this room is for you.  Evan's room is right next door."

 

As Kathryn took care of her guests, Michael brought up their luggage.

 

“Now if there is anything you need just let us know.”  Michael smiled at them warmly.  “We were not expecting you for dinner, but my Katie can whip up a stew, the like of which you have never tasted before.”

 

“Oh, go on with you Michael.” Kathryn blushed.

 

“It’s true”, Michael continued proudly, “She is the best cook for miles around.”

 

The couple smiled at each other warmly.  It was apparent for all to see that they loved each other deeply.

 

“But can she make good cookies?” Gene inquired innocently.  Shannon and Paul both laughed.

 

“She’s won prizes for her cookies.” Michael winked at Kathryn.

 

“I’ll see if I can bake you some cookies tomorrow Mr. Simmons.”  Kathryn continued blushing.

 

“Gene.  Please call me Gene.”

 

Kathryn and Michael nodded politely and left their guests to unpack

 

The couple went into the library and shut the door away from prying eyes and ears.  "Michael, they are here too early.  What are we going to do?" concern filling her voice.

 

"It will be all right Kathryn.  I will go see Greagoir and explain the situation."

 

"What if he gets mad?"  Fear filling her voice.

 

"It will be all right.  Don’t worry."  Michael kissed his wife good-bye and

went out the front door, heading toward the forest.  Kathryn went to the kitchen to prepare dinner for her guests, anxious for her husband’s return.

 

Kathryn made stew for her guests and true to Michael’s word, it was the best stew any of them had ever tasted.  They laughed amongst themselves and talked about the pending concert.  Kathryn darted in and out of the dining room.  It was past dinnertime and Michael had not returned.  What was taking so long?

 

"I hope the rooms are to your liking." Kathryn said nervously as she made another short appearance into the dining room.  She continued to watch for her husband to come home.

 

"They are very nice.  Thank you." Shannon said observing Kathryn's nervousness.

 

"Is your husband joining us for dinner tonight?"  Gene asked.

 

Kathryn looked around, even more nervous than before, "He had to take care of something.  He should be returning shortly.  I will leave you to your dinner now."  Kathryn swiftly left the dining room.

 

"Now, that was rather strange." Remarked Paul.  "Do you think there is something going on here we do not know about?"

 

"Well, we did show up a few days early.”  Shannon reasoned.  “Since they did not get the message from Doc, I am sure they just were not expecting us so soon."

 

"I’m sure that is it."  Gene agreed with Shannon.

 

Sophie asked, "Dad, what about that person I saw going into the forest?"

 

"What person Sophie?"  Gene quizzed his daughter.

 

"There was somebody going into the forest.  And the trees moved and they let him in."  Sophie was getting rather excited.  “When we got here.  Don’t you remember?”

 

The adults all laughed at what they considered the ramblings of an impressionable young girl with too big an imagination.

 

"Sophie, trees do not move." Laughed Nick.

 

"Yes, they did."  Sophie pouted.  “I saw them.”

 

The adults continued to laugh.  "Sophie, you are seeing things.  Because we are in Ireland, you think you are seeing the 'wee people'.” Gene was trying to reason with her.

 

"No I'm not!”  Sophie was getting upset that no one believed her.  “I really saw it."

 

"Okay, that is enough." Shannon spoke to her children.  "It is late, we have had a long flight and you need to get some sleep.  Off to bed now."

 

Evan had not said very much during all of this.  "Okay Evan, you need to get some sleep too." Paul told his son.

 

The adults took their children upstairs tucked them in and decided that maybe it was late and they should go to bed too.


CHAPTER 2

 

The members of KISS and their families retired for the evening.  Kathryn went into the library and waited for her husband to return, all the time pacing back and forth.  Finally, Michael returned. 

 

"Well, Michael, is it all right?"

 

"Oh Kathryn, you worry way too much.  Everything is okay.  I explained to Greagoir and he understands."

 

"Did you see Sabrina?"

 

"No, I did not see Sabrina.  She was visiting with her friends."

 

"We are going to have to tell her as soon as she comes in.” 

 

"I know Kathryn.  Maybe we could do it tomorrow when she wakes up."

 

"Michael, she will know children are in the house.  We have to tell her when she comes home."

 

"You are right, as always, my dear.  We will wait for her to come home and then we will tell her."

 

Kathryn and Michael waited in the library, watching for Sabrina to come home.  It was almost dawn, when a cloaked figure glided through the front door of the castle.  As she made her way past the library door, Michael called out to her.  "Sabrina, we need to speak to you please."  The cloaked figure slowly crept into the room. 

 

"The McGregor, am I in trouble?"  It was almost a whisper.

 

"What makes you think you would be in trouble my dear?" Kathryn spoke gently to the young girl.

 

"I saw The McGregor with my father, and now you call me in to talk to me.  Am I in trouble?  Have I done something wrong?"  There was a slight quiver in her voice.

 

"No Sabrina" The McGregor replied reassuringly.  "Come sit down we need to speak to you."

 

Sabrina sat down in the chair.  "Sabrina" Kathryn started, "we have visitors in your castle"

 

"Visitors?" Sabrina started to get excited, "Visitors, here?"

 

"We have humans who are staying here and they have children."  Kathryn told her young charge.

 

"Children!” Sabrina's eyes got large as she got more and more excited.  “Human children?"  Jumping out of her chair, "I must go.  I must find them."

 

"Sabrina,” The McGregor said forcefully.  “Sit down and listen.” 

 

Reluctantly Sabrina sat down but fidgeted in her chair, all the time planning on how she would find the children. 

 

“There are two children.  A boy, Evan and a girl, Sophie.  But you must leave them alone."  The McGregor informed her.

 

"Oh," the excitement she once felt was gone from her voice.  "I cannot see the children?"

 

"Not tonight.  It is late and they are asleep.  Besides you need your rest too.” The McGregor stated.

 

“We do not want you to bother them tonight.  They do not know about you."  Kathryn informed Sabrina.  "Tomorrow you can meet them.  Tonight I want you to go straight to your room.  I will bring up your snack and tuck you in."

 

"Yes, Lady Kathryn" Sabrina said soberly.  The cloaked figure left the den and went up the stairs.

 

Michael raised an eyebrow and looked at his wife, "Do you think she is going to her room Kathryn?"

 

"Oh Michael, of course not, she has gone to look for the children.  You knew she would as soon as she walked out of the room."

 

"Aye, I suppose I did know."

 

"I'll take a tray up to her room and meet her there."  Lady Kathryn picked up the cloak Sabrina had dropped on her way out of the room.

 

Suddenly, Sabrina came flying back into the room.  "The McGregor! You told me there were two children.  There are not two children, there are three children."  Sabrina was thrilled.

 

Michael looked at Sabrina who was floating 6 feet above him.  "Sabrina, there are two children.  A boy and a girl."

 

"No, The McGregor!" Sabrina was almost shouting from excitement.  "There are three.  There are two boys and a girl.”  Sabrina flew down to look The McGregor in the eyes.  She was so close their noses almost touched.  “I saw them."

 

"But Sabrina,” Michael tried to explain, “Nicholas isn't a child.  He is almost grown."

 

"But in his heart he is still a child.  I felt him.  There are three children.  And if I say there are three children then there are three children."  Sabrina flew to the ceiling and extended her arms and her wings as far as she could with all her dignity and regal bearing.  "I say there are three children.  And I am the Princess."

 

Lady Kathryn walked back in, witnessing Sabrina’s announcement.  "Princess, these are humans. They do not fall under your rule.  You can not command them."

 

Depressed, her wings slumped and she slowly floated down to the floor.  "But there are three children Lady Kathryn."  Sabrina whined.  "And I have given them my protection." Sabrina straightened her shoulders suddenly feeling very proud of herself.

 

"I thought I told you to go to your room Sabrina." Kathryn reprimanded slightly.  Sabrina flew to Lady Kathryn’s side, her head hung low.

 

"I know.  But I could not help myself." With pleading eyes, Sabrina tried to explain, "There are children in my castle, Lady Kathryn, there are children." 

 

"Did you wake them?"

 

"No.  I was very quiet." Sabrina whispered, a spark of excitement returning to her voice.

 

"All right Sabrina.  There are three children.”  Lady Kathryn finally agreed with Sabrina.  “Now it is time for you to go up and go to bed.  We will see the children tomorrow."  Lady Kathryn again assumed her mother role.

 

"You will let me speak to the children?"  Sabrina was hopeful as she began to float in front of Lady Kathryn.

 

"Yes, Sabrina.  But they do not know about you, so I have to tell them about you first.  Will you let me tell them about you?"  Lady Kathryn spoke as if she was speaking to a 5 year old child.

 

"I can do that Lady Kathryn.  I can tell them who I am."  Excitement had returned to Sabrina.

 

"No Sabrina, I need to tell them before you do."  Lady Kathryn smiled at her charge, "they might not believe in you."

 

Sabrina stopped and looked at Lady Kathryn with a shocked expression, "Not believe in me?  How could they not believe in me?"

 

"They are human, and not all humans believe in faeries."

 

"Oh, but these are children Lady Kathryn.”  Sabrina grinned.   “All children believe in faeiries."

 

Lady Kathryn smiled.  "Tomorrow you can see the children.  Now come here, I will take you to bed."

 

Lady Kathryn took Sabrina by the hand and walked her upstairs to her bedroom.

 

Sabrina’s room was very special, one that is fit for a princess.

 

The castle was the home of a faerie princess, naturally,  it was also enchanted.  A tree grew in the corner of Sabrina’s room, as part of the foundation.  Her bed was a large leaf that grew from the tree.  One wall was actually a waterfall that fell into a pond.  There were flowers growing through the floor and large toadstools acted as chairs.  Tree roots grew in front of the window forming a bench where Sabrina could sit and look out the window. 

 

Lady Kathryn gave Sabrina a cup of honey with cream and then tucked her into bed.  "Sweet dreams my Princess.  We will see you in the morning." 

 

As Lady Kathryn was leaving the room Sabrina stretched and yawned, "Good night Lady Kathryn."

 

Lady Kathryn smiled at the princess who was already fast asleep, then turned to go back downstairs to her husband. 

 

"Do you think they suspect anything my dear?”  Asked Michael.

 

"No.  I believe she was very quiet and did not wake them.”  Kathryn was becoming concerned at the thought of the next day.  “We are going to have to tell them tomorrow first thing in the morning.  I am afraid of how they are going to react."

 

“We cannot tell them everything." Replied Michael.

 

"No." agreed Lady Kathryn, "We will only tell them about Sabrina."


CHAPTER 3

 

The next morning, the houseguests all assembled in the dining room for breakfast.

 

Nick was the first to start the morning's conversation.  "I had the strangest dream last night."

 

His father, not really paying much attention, his mind on the business papers in front of him, "That's nice."

 

"No dad, it was really a strange dream.”  Nick insisted.  “ I dreamed this girl came into my room.  She was flying and then she kissed me on the forehead." 

 

Lady Kathryn looked at her husband, neither said a word.

 

"I had that dream too." Evan joined in the conversation.

 

Sophie said, "It was a faerie who came into the room."

 

"Oh children," Shannon confronted her two, "I am sure you were just excited about being here and your imagination ran away with you that is all.  Sophie I don’t want to hear any more about faeries.  There is no such thing as faeries."

 

Michael decided now might be a good time to tell his houseguests about Sabrina.  " Do you believe in faeries?"

 

Sophie got very excited, "Oh yes, I believe."

 

"Oh…faeries are for kids,” Nicholas laughed at his sister.

 

Evan was not sure what to say.  He did not want anyone to think he was a baby; he was trying to be as grown up as Nick.  But he was not sure if he believed in faeries or not. And he was not about to admit to anyone that just possibly he did believe.

 

 

"I don’t care what you say Nick, I know it was a faerie who came into my room last night." Sophie was getting angry with her brother.

 

"Well, Sophie, if you are a good girl maybe the faerie will come back tonight." Gene laughed at what he considered the innocent fantasy of his young daughter.

 

Lady Kathryn could stand it no longer.  "Sophie, faeries do exist.  In fact, it was a faerie that came to visit you last night.  Her name is Sabrina and this is actually her castle.  We are just the caretakers here."

 

"Faeries," Nick argued, "that is a story for kids.  You are making this all up for Sophie's sake."

 

Lady Kathryn looked at Nick, "Nicholas, Princess Sabrina believes in your heart you are a child and that is why she came to visit you, and to give you her protection."

 

Shocked, "What do you mean she gave me her protection?"

 

"Her kiss.  Any of the magic folk will be able to see it and will know you are under the protection of the Princess Sabrina.  They will not try to play tricks on you.  Sometimes the leprechauns have a tendency to play pranks on their unsuspecting victims."

 

"Oh, you are just teasing." Nick responded.

 

Lady Kathryn did not say anything more; she simply walked out of the room.

 

"Dad," Sophie started again "I know it was a faerie that came into my room last night."

 

"Yes, Sophie."  Was all he would say.  "Let's talk about something else now."


CHAPTER 4

 

Gene and Paul had a busy day ahead of them.  There were TV and radio interviews to do and pictures to be taken to promote their upcoming concerts.  The limousine pulled into the drive and, dressed in their costumes and make-up, Gene, Paul, and their families, headed out to do their interviews.  Sophie looked back at the castle hoping to find the window of Sabrina’s room and maybe catch a glimpse of her.  The interviews were going to last most of the day and so no one was sure what time they would come back.  Sophie couldn’t wait to get back to the castle.

 

Princess Sabrina slept all day, dreaming about meeting the children.  Finally late in the afternoon, Sabrina woke up and went rushing downstairs toward the library to find her guests. 

 

"Children.  Children."  No one answered.  All was quiet in the castle.  Where could they be?  Are they playing a game with me?’   Sabrina was becoming worried “Lady Kathryn?" she whispered, from nowhere Lady Kathryn was by her side.

 

"Yes Sabrina?"

 

"I cannot find the children.  Where are the children?  You said I could meet the children today.  Did you tell them about me?"  Sabrina was getting more and more excited the longer she talked.

 

"So many questions."  Lady Kathryn smiled.

 

"Lady Kathryn…." Sabrina was running out of patience.

 

"The children are with their parents.  They went into the city."

 

"Ohhhh" Sabrina's shoulders slumped in disappointment.  "I wanted to talk to the children."

 

"They will be back soon, Sabrina.  And yes, I told the children about you.  But I don't think they believed me."

 

Sabrina's head snapped up "What?  Not believe in faeiries?  Oh Lady Kathryn, you must be mistaken."

 

"Maybe I am Sabrina.  Maybe when they see you they will believe."

 

"Oh, I cannot wait for the children." Sabrina started dancing around the room.  "They are so pretty."

 

Lady Kathryn smiled as she began to tell Sabrina about the children. "The little girl's name is Sophia and she is 12.  The little boy is Evan he is almost 10, and Nicholas is the tall one."

 

"Oh, Nicholas is so pretty." Sabrina said dreamily.  Her hands clasped together as she floated around the room.

 

"He is handsome, not pretty." Corrected Lady Kathryn.

 

"Oh, he is pretty."  Ignoring Lady Kathryn’s correction.

 

Lady Kathryn just smiled.  "Okay Sabrina, he is pretty.  Instead of flying around here, why don't you go into the forest now?  Your parents will be waiting for you."

 

"I wanted to see the children before I left."  Sabrina pouted.

 

"But they are not here.  You can see them tomorrow."

 

“Tomorrow.  I don’t want to wait another day.  I want to see them now.”  Suddenly Sabrina's head snapped up, "I know.  I will ask my father if the children can come to the festival.  Do you think it will be all right Lady Kathryn?" Sabrina inquired of her caretaker.

 

"It is up to your father Sabrina."

 

"Oh, it will be all right.  I know he will say yes."  Sabrina clapped her hands in joy as she quickly raced to her room to get her cloak, now anxious to head out for the forest.

 

Lady Kathryn laughed at the excitement Sabrina was displaying.  Sometimes it was hard to believe that Sabrina was 250 years old.  In many ways she acted like and still retained the innocence of the children she loved so much.


CHAPTER 5

 

Sabrina set out toward the forest.  How would she ask her father about the children?  He could be stubborn sometimes.    She had to come up with a plan.

 

Sabrina reached the forest, as if on cue, the trees moved aside to welcome her into their domain.  "Good afternoon Mr. Tree.  Isn't it a lovely day?  Did you know there are children at my castle?"

 

There was a rustling in the trees, as the trees spoke to her.  Sabrina smiled and waved as she passed them, heading farther into the forest. 

 

At the center of the forest was a clearing this was her destination.  Sabrina hung her cloak on a nearby tree limb and ran into the middle of the clearing.

 

"Sabrina's here! Sabrina's here!" Excited voices rang out from all over the clearing.  In the blink of an eye the clearing was filled with faeries.  Tiny faeries.  Actually, they were normal size for faeries; Sabrina was the one that was different.

 

"My daughter has returned safely to us once again." Proclaimed King Greagoir. 

 

"Oh father, I am so excited.  There are human children at my castle!” squealed Sabrina.

 

There was a murmur among the faeries, "Children."

 

"We know my daughter.”  "Queen Leanna smiled.  “Are they being nice to you?"

 

"I haven't met them yet." Sabrina said dejectedly.  "But I gave them my protection." She replied proudly.  Sabrina had never given anyone her protection before.

 

"You did?  Does The McGregor know about this?" inquired King Greagoir.

 

"Yes, I told him very first thing." Sabrina's confidence now started to waver. "Father, I was wondering if it would be all right if the children came to the festival?"  The words were out before she could stop herself from speaking.

 

A hush fell over the clearing.  All the faeries stopped in mid flight to hear what King Greagoir would say.  Sabrina did not breathe as she waited for the response from her father.  What would she do if he said no?

 

"Is this what you really want?" King Greagoir asked sternly.

 

"Yes father.  I truly want them to come.”  Hesitantly she added,  “And maybe you could make them small and they could fly with us too?"

 

King Greagoir looked to his wife.  In all her life, his daughter had never asked such a thing.  Could he tell her no?  How could he deny her when she had such a pleading look on her face?  Fate had dealt her such a terrible blow, how could he tell her no? 

 

The tension in the air was thick, everyone waiting; Sabrina's heart was pounding so hard in her chest she thought everyone could hear.  He just couldn't tell her no….could he?

 

The King looked from Sabrina and then again, back to his wife.  Queen Leanna nodded her head slightly.  So slightly, no one but the King saw.

 

"Sabrina, this festival is for the wee folk of our forest.  We have never allowed strangers to attend." 

 

Sabrina's heart started to break.  Tears formed in her eyes, she bowed her head waiting for the final word from her father.  Tears began to trickle down her face, which she quickly wiped away before anyone could see.  But her mother did see.

 

"Greagoir, do not tease our daughter."

 

Sabrina's head snapped up.  What had her mother said?  Did she hear correctly?  Were they going to allow the children to attend the festival?

 

"Sabrina, these children must be very special for you to give them your protection and for you to make such a request.  Because they are that special to you, then they have our permission to attend the festival and fly with you."

 

Sabrina soared over their heads turning and spinning.  She was overjoyed.  The children could come to her festival.  She couldn't wait to tell them.

 

King Greagoir took his wife's hand as they watched their only daughter flying through the trees.  Never before had they seen her so energized.

 

"You have made her so happy my husband.  Thank you."  Queen Leanna kissed her husband on the cheek and they smiled at each other and continued to watch Sabrina twist and turn above their heads.

 

Despite her size Sabrina was the most graceful of faeries.  She presented a beautiful sight in her long lavender gown and her wings of lavender and blue.

 

Sabrina spent the day with her friends, darting in and out of the trees playing games, and talking about the upcoming festival.

 

The moon came out and Sabrina knew it was getting late.

 

"Father, I am going home early tonight."

 

"Why Sabrina?”  Worry in her father’s voice.  “Did I not give you what you wanted?   I said the children could attend the festival”.

 

"Oh yes, it is exactly what I wanted.  Now, I want to tell the children.  They have been with their parents all day.  I so want to see them."

 

"Go back to your castle my daughter.  Go see the children and invite them to the festival.  You can come back tomorrow and tell me of their excitement."

 

Sabrina kissed her mother and father good-bye, waved to her friends and gathering her cloak, left the forest.

 

"Good evening, Mr. Tree.  My father said the children could come to the festival.  Isn't that wonderful?"

 

The trees rustled again, as it answered her question.  Sabrina smiled, said good-bye to the trees and hurried back home.

 

The closer she got to the castle the quicker she walked.  The McGregor had made her promise never to fly when she was outside where people might see her.  It might be bad if people knew she could fly.  Sabrina was always very careful.  Tonight is was so hard not to fly.  She wanted to see the children so badly.

 

She arrived at the castle and hurried in the front door. 

 

"Lady Kathryn?  Are the children back?"  Sabrina called out.

 

In anticipation of her arrival, Lady Kathryn was waiting near the foyer.  "No my dear, the children are not back yet.  But they should be here soon.  Why don't you wait in the library?   You can see them when they come in."

 

Sabrina waited in the library, pacing back and forth.  'Where are the children?  What is taking so long?' Sabrina was getting very impatient.  Faeries are not known for their patience and Sabrina was at the end of hers. 


CHAPTER 6

 

Sabrina paced back and forth in the library, waiting.  Then, streaming through the window there was a light.  Sabrina quickly ran to the window and saw a car pull up in the drive.  'They are here!' Sabrina became so excited she found herself flying around the ceiling.  Back and forth she flew, from the floor back up to the ceiling.  The anticipation was almost too much for her.  'Why have they not come inside?'

 

The front door opened.  First to enter was Sophie, she walked past the door to the library and stopped.  Sabrina was smiling and clapping her hands, 'The children'.  Sophia stopped quickly at the door.  Evan was right behind her and then Nick who almost tripped over the two younger children.

 

"Sophie, why did you stop?" Nicholas was short with his sister.

 

Sophie, with her mouth wide open, could not utter a sound but could only point.  There in the library was Sabrina, with wings extended, flying close to the ceiling, clapping her hands and smiling.

 

"What is wrong with you kids?" Gene said impatiently.

 

"Look." Was all any of them could say.

 

Gene, Paul, and Shannon all looked into the library and saw Sabrina.

 

Sabrina started to fly toward the children when she stopped.  There was not one, but two demons in front of her.  Sabrina screamed, she flew into the ceiling hitting her head and kept flying erratically.  She flew back and forth hitting the walls and ceiling continuing to scream.

 

"Shit…." came from an astonished Gene.

 

"Oh my, god." Said an equally astonished Shannon.

 

Lady Kathryn appeared at the door and surveying the scene knew what had happened.  She walked into the library past her shocked guests.

 

"Brini." she said calmly.  Sabrina saw Lady Kathryn, and flew straight into her outstretched arms.  Like a mother comforting her child, Lady Kathryn held Sabrina, stroking her hair, "It's okay now.  Everything is all right.  I have you."

 

Sabrina sobbed, too terrified to look at the strangers in her home.

 

Michael entered into the room and said softly.  "I'm sorry.  It’s your costumes.  You have frightened her.  She thinks you are demons out to capture her.  She will be all right soon."

 

The three adults looked at each other in amazement.  This could not be real.  Could it?

 

"Everything is okay now, Sabrina.  I am here and no one will hurt you." Lady Kathryn cooed softly.  "Did you hurt yourself?"

 

Sabrina snuffled, "Yes, I hurt my head."

 

"Show me where."

 

"It hurts right here…." Sabrina whined as she pointed to a spot on her forehead.

 

"Right here?" Lady Kathryn kissed the invisible spot on Sabrina's forehead.  "Is that better?"

 

Sabrina nodded, still trembling in Lady Kathryn's arms.  Lady Kathryn continued to stroke her hair and wings, whispering in her ear to calm her down. 

 

Evan walked up to Lady Kathryn, "Is she okay?"

 

"Yes, she will be fine.  She just got a little scared that's all."  Would you like to touch her wings?"  Evan nodded yes, and Lady Kathryn showed him where to put his hands and how to gently massage Sabrina's wings. 

 

Sabrina sighed in contentment.  She was not upset now, not as much anyway.  She was starting to calm down and relax. 

 

"She likes that." Lady Kathryn told Evan.

 

"Can I do that too?" Sophie asked as she came closer.

 

"Of course.  Sabrina likes children."  Lady Kathryn continued, "Would you like to go with me to put her to bed?"

 

"Can we?" asked a curious Sophia.

 

"Of course, come with me up to her bedroom.  I think you might like it.  I doubt if you have ever seen a room quite like hers."  Lady Kathryn walked Sabrina out of the library and up the stairs to her room with Evan and Sophia close behind.

 

"What just happened here?" Paul asked when he finally got his voice back.

 

"Come, sit down and I will explain." Michael told them.

 

Gene, Paul, Shannon, and Nick sat down in the library and waited for an explanation but before he could begin there was a light tapping at the window.  Michael looked out and smiled then opened the window for his small visitor.

 

Thaddeus came flying in the window that Michael had opened for him.  He stopped short at the sight of Gene and Paul still in their costumes and make-up.

 

Flying back to hide behind Michael, "The McGregor, are these humans?” whispered Thaddeus.

 

"They won't harm you Thaddeus.  It is just a costume."  Michael told the faerie.

 

“Sabrina was afraid, wasn’t she?  Is she all right?  Where is she?"  The questions tumbled out of Thaddeus as he flew about the room.

 

"Yes, Sabrina was upset.  Lady Kathryn has taken her to bed." 

 

Thaddeus went to Nicholas, flying in front of him.  "You are The Nicholas.  I like you."  And Thaddeus sat down on Nicholas’ shoulder.

 

"I was just about to tell them Sabrina's story Thaddeus.  But I think you could do a better job of telling it."

 

"They don't know about Sabrina?  Oh my.  I will tell them, I know the story very well."  And he settled down to tell them Sabrina's story.


CHAPTER 7

 

"Queen Leanna and King Greagoir were very much in love.  The only thing missing was a baby.  They tried and tried until one day Queen Leanna discovered she was with child.  There was much joy in their kingdom.  Queen Leanna delivered a boy, a royal prince to rule after his father.  The King and Queen were very happy.  Everyone in the kingdom was happy, all except Aghamore.  Aghamore was the King's advisor and he thought that he should rule the kingdom."

 

"There always has to be one in every group" Gene commented under his breath.

 

"Yeah, and usually that one is you, Gene." Paul laughed.

 

Gene just looked at Paul.  "Go on Thaddeus"

 

"Well, one day the King was away and the Queen was left with the baby.  She fell into a mysterious sleep and when she woke up she was horrified to find the baby was dead."  Thaddeus hung his head in sorrow at the memory of the lost child.

 

"That’s awful.  The Queen must have been heartbroken."  Shannon said just barely above a whisper.

 

"That she was.  The Queen blamed herself, although no one else did.  They tried to have another child but each time the Queen lost the child before it was born.  The King and Queen were wracked with sorrow.  Finally, the King announced that Queen Leanna was going to visit a nearby kingdom to help her get over the depression she felt at the loss of their child.  No one in the kingdom questioned this decision because they all loved the Queen so much and they wanted her to be happy again."

 

"That was not why she left, was it?" inquired Gene.

 

"No, Queen Leanna was with child and they were afraid if she stayed that something bad would happen once more.  She went to stay with friends in a nearby kingdom and remained there until the baby was born.  This time it was a girl."

 

"Sabrina." interrupted Nicholas.

 

"Yes. Queen Leanna stayed in the kingdom until Sabrina was about a month old.  At that time they felt she could safely go home with the baby. Of course, the King would have guards to watch over the Queen and the new Princess.  Everyone in the kingdom was so excited that the Queen had given birth that they didn't object that she did so in secret.  There was a huge celebration planned.  The King and Queen from the neighboring kingdom came to the celebration along with their family.  King Greagoir was so pleased that his wife and daughter were finally home, he announced that because King Seamus and Queen Fiona had taken care of his wife and helped with the birth of his daughter, that when Sabrina was old enough, he was promising her hand in marriage to the youngest son of King Seamus and together they would unite the kingdoms."

 

"How romantic" said Shannon. 

 

"Aghamore the Advisor did not think so.  In fact, he became very angry, he wanted his son, Hegarty to marry the Princess.  He was so livid with the King and Queen that he put a curse on the baby Princess causing her to grow until she was the size of a human and would never be able to rule over the faerie kingdom."

 

"That sucks." Stated Nicholas.

 

"Nicholas, watch your mouth." Shannon said, looking at her son sternly.

 

"Sorry mom."

 

"Continue, Thaddeus."  Said Gene, trying to hide a laugh.

 

"The King suspected that Aghamore had caused the death of his son and that he had been the reason The Queen had so much trouble carrying a child.  The Advisor and his son were banished from the kingdoms and no one has seen them since.  Sabrina continued to grow until she became the size she is now."

 

Michael continued the story from here, "You see, that is why Kathryn and I are here.  Sabrina became too big to live in the forest with the other faeries, and the weather was too harsh for her.  She could not hide in the trees or under the bushes because she was too big.  King Greagoir made a pact with my ancestors to watch over his daughter and they would always be taken care of.  Magic built this castle for Sabrina so she would be safe.  We live here to take care of her just as my father did, and his father before him, and his father before him, for the last 250 years."

 

"But what happened to the King's son that Sabrina was supposed to marry?" asked Shannon.

 

"Oh, that."  Thaddeus continued hesitantly, "The Prince felt an obligation to Sabrina and he spent as much time with her as he could.  They became fast friends, they would fly together and laugh together.  Even when Sabrina continued to grow they stayed together, the Prince was determined to keep his commitment to Sabrina.  But, it became harder and harder to do as she grew bigger and bigger.  The Prince tried to stay by her side as he felt that was his duty."

 

"Good for him." Shannon smiled.

 

"The Prince and Sabrina had many friends in both kingdoms.  One day after Sabrina had left the forest to go back to her castle the Prince found himself lonely."

 

"Uh oh, I sense trouble brewing."  Remarked Paul.

 

"Breanna, a friend of both the Prince and Sabrina, saw the Prince and inquired why he was so sad.  The Prince told her he was lonely since Sabrina had left.  Breanna and the Prince shared a friendship.  After a few weeks both felt horrible at the realization of what they were doing to Sabrina.  Although, Breanna and the Prince were just friends, each knew that they were beginning to feel something more.  They could not do that to Sabrina.  They vowed not to see each other anymore."

 

"But they could not keep that vow, could they?" Gene inquired, a knowing look on his face.

 

"No, they could not.  When Sabrina would leave to go home, Breana and the Prince would be together talking and laughing."  Thaddeus suddenly hung his head and quietly continued, "One day after Sabrina left, she came back unannounced because she had forgotten to give her parents a message from The McGregor.  Sabrina saw Breanna and the Prince together."

 

"Did she get angry?" asked Nicholas

 

"No, she did not."  Thaddeus felt shame, "Sabrina never said a word to the two of them.  She left to go home leaving Breanna and the Prince unaware that she had ever seen them together.  Sabrina did not come to the forest the next day, which was unusual for her.  A messenger came from the castle just saying the Princess was not feeling well and would join us the next night."

 

"Did she join them?" inquired Shannon.

 

"Yes, the next day Sabrina came to the forest.  Unbeknownst to Breanna and the Prince, Sabrina requested a meeting with her parents and the parents of the Prince.   At that time she announced that it was not fair to hold the Prince to the promise her father had made many years ago.  Although, she was a faerie too, she would never be able to fully live in his world."

 

"That must have been very hard for her." Stated Shannon.

 

"I think it was the hardest and the bravest thing she has ever done."  Thaddeus stated.  "Both kings reluctantly accepted her request realizing she was right.  King Greagoir announced to his people that the promise of marriage between Sabrina and the Prince no longer existed at the request of the Princess.  He also agreed that even though there would be no marriage between the kingdoms they would remain close due to the help they had given him and his wife at the birth of his daughter and together with King Seamus proclaimed them to be sister kingdoms."

 

"What happened to Breanna and the Prince?" asked Nicholas.

 

"They knew that they were the reason the announcement had been made.  The Prince went to speak to Sabrina.  In the most unselfish gesture, Sabrina told him that he should find someone he could live his life with and that Sabrina would give her blessing to the union.  She never let on she knew about Breanna although the Prince realized she did know."