"Welcome," said the strange old woman behind the counter as Joanna walked inside. "We've been expecting you."
"What?"
"Indeed, it was foretold in the stars that you would come," said the little woman. "But, now, come, I shall not keep you waiting. Behold! Choose which you will!" And she waved her hand at the various shelves in the little shop.
"What is this store?" asked Joanna. "I mean... I just came in here because I'm playing hooky from work."
"You came here because it is your destiny! Now choose!" The little old woman gave her a dark look.
Joanna shrugged and continued down the aisles. The shelves were full of herbs, ointments, and drinks, each in a little vial or bottle, all of a hundred shapes and sizes and colors. They were neatly labeled, too, and she began to read them aloud --- softly --- as she passed them.
"Mermaid scales, satyr tail, centaur hoof, harpy feathers, naga skin... what is all this stuff?"
"It is your destiny," said the old woman solemnly. "One of my wares already selected you before you were born. You must merely find it."
"Leg serum? Head powder? Breast potion? Lady, what the heck are you selling here?"
"It is for you to discover," said the old woman, and wouldn't respond again.
