Page 39 of The Misplaced Warrior

“Well, it’s nice to meet you,” Gen said. “And it’s nice that you wanted to meet me.”

“Of course,” John replied. “But we realized you were dealing with a lot, so we were waiting until the time was right. I guess that’s now.”

Gen smiled, looking around the shop full of electronics. It was cluttered and then also full of character with so many oddities, much like the Fantastical Armory. “I’m actually here because I need some help with magitech. I’ve been accused of stealing some valuable technology from MystTech Creations.”

Alicia nodded at once. “We heard and it reeks of deceit. Whatever would you want with quantum-entangled silicon? That material is so advanced that only the top magitech scientists can use it. And even then, a third party would have difficulty trying to sell it on the black market.”

Gen sighed with instant relief. “That’s the kind of insight I need. I don’t even know what I’m up against. Someone is setting me up, but I’m obviously out of my element and don’t even know where to start. I don’t think that the owner of the company is behind it, but I think that he knows who is…”

“Chip,” Alicia said. “I know of him. And yes, he’s not a bad guy. But we need to know more about him and his company.”

“Do you think that you can help me?” Gen asked. “I don’t even know where to begin. Although, I have quite a lot to figure out. I need to know who is behind this and why and if the quantum-entangled silicon is important. My dragon seems to think that there’s something dangerous at MystTech Creations, like a device or something.”

“Very possibly,” Alicia said, her eyes off in thought. “I bet I could get a job there. My credentials allow me to move about in the magitech world easily.”

John nodded, a proud look on his face. “Few have the knowledge that my wife does on magitech. She was ahead of her time, paving the way for the industry early on. Since then, she’s stayed ahead, forging the path.”

“Thanks, John,” Alicia said fondly. “I think that I could get into the company and look around, see if I find anything suspicious and follow the leads, if there are any. But that may not be enough.”

Gen brightened. “Well, after this, I was planning on recruiting a detective team to help. I’ve worked with Sherlock Holmes and King Rudolf in the past. I know that magitech isn’t their specialty, but mysteries are. What if I have them help you?”

“That’s exactly what I need!” Alicia cheered. “I’m a bit narrow-focused, but they’ll be able to see outside the scope. Let me get into the company, get clearance and then I’ll have them help me sniff out what’s going on. How does that sound?”

Gen sighed with real relief. “Honestly, it’s the most hopeful I’ve been since this whole thing unfolded. Thank you so much for your help.”

Alicia smiled warmly. “Of course. That’s what family does. And I realize that you didn’t know we were family, well, family friends. But we are. And we always look out for the Beaufonts. Familia Est Sempiternum.”

CHAPTER THIRTY

THE SOURDOUGH SECRET

Alchemy Bakeries, Los Angeles, California, United States

When Gen reached out to King Rudolf, regarding his and Sherlock Holmes’ help, he told her to meet them at a magical bakery in Los Angeles. Apparently, the detective team was still investigating the string of murders happening at a chain of magical bakeries. The king of the fae said they were wrapping up the case and would help Gen with her own dilemma as soon as they were done.

As Gen stepped into the Alchemy Bakeries, she was immediately enveloped by the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked treats and the faint, shimmering glow oPf fairy dust. The air hummed with a gentle, melodic buzz as tiny, iridescent fairies flitted about. Beautifully, their delicate wings cast a kaleidoscope of colors across the walls.

The bakery itself was a marvel of whimsy and enchantment. The walls were adorned with intricate murals depicting scenes from fairy tales and mythical legends. Each one seemed to come alive as the fairies’ magic danced across their surfaces. Hanging from the ceiling were delicate, crystal chandeliers that twinkled with starlight, casting a soft, ethereal glow over the entire space.

At the center of the bakery stood a magnificent display case, its glass surface polished to a mirror-like sheen. Within its confines, a dazzling array of magical pastries and confections awaited, each one more tempting and fantastical than the last.

There were “Dragon’s Breath Danishes.” The sign next to them listed their name and magical property. Apparently, they made the person who ate them momentarily breathe fire. They had flaky crusts infused with cinnamon and topped with a shimmering, ruby-red glaze that seemed to flicker and dance like the flames of a dragon’s fiery exhalation. Beside them sat “Mermaid’s Melody Macarons,” which were delicate shells swirled with hues of turquoise and pearl, promising to make those who ate them swim faster.

Gen’s gaze was drawn to a tray of “Pixie’s Delight Petit Fours.” Each one was a miniature work of art adorned with edible flowers and dusted with a shimmering, silver powder that made them appear to levitate ever so slightly above the tray. The scent of honey and lavender wafted from their direction, a tantalizing hint of the magic that lay within.

Gen drew her attention to a group of fairies gathered around a large, copper mixing bowl behind the counter. Their tiny hands worked together to knead a shimmering, golden dough. They chattered and sang as they worked, their voices blending together in a harmonious symphony that filled the bakery with a sense of joy and wonder.

Other fairies flitted about the bakery, dusting the shelves with glittering, iridescent powders. They also arranged displays of “Enchanted Forest Cupcakes” adorned with delicate, sugar-spun flowers and miniature marzipan woodland creatures. The air was thick with the mingled scents of vanilla, caramel, and the faint, floral notes of fairy magic.

As Gen breathed in the heady, enchanting aroma, she felt a sense of warmth and comfort wash over her. For a moment the troubles of the outside world were forgotten. Here, in this haven of sweet delights and magical wonders, anything seemed possible, and the weight of the mysteries that lay ahead seemed a little less daunting.

But even as she lost herself in the charm and whimsy of the bakery, Gen couldn’t shake the feeling that something darker lurked beneath the surface, a shadow that threatened to engulf the sweetness and light. With a shiver of apprehension, she tore her gaze away from the mesmerizing display of pastries and steeled herself for the challenges that lay ahead, knowing that the road to the truth would be fraught with danger and deception.

“Don’t eat anything,” King Rudolf warned, appearing suddenly at her shoulder, nearly making Gen jump.

She turned to the fae who must have snuck up on her while she was lost in the mesmerizing lure of the magical bakery. Gen smiled at the handsome man who was dressed elegantly, per usual, in a lavender silk tunic and slacks. His blond hair was pushed back and his blue eyes sparkled with delight.

“Because it’s poisoned?” she asked, motioning to the delicious-looking treats. “That’s why you’re investigating, right? The baked goods are killing people?”

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