“I had a good look around Uriah’s room, and I soon found out what a fraud he was. I saw the secret life he was living.” A hard look came into Basil’s eyes. “I confronted him. I said I’d let everyone know he was a cheap performer who was cashing in on his vampire status. He wouldn’t be able to shout at anyone ever again. He begged me not to tell. He said he’d bring me some amazing books back from the other world which I’d be able to sell here. I wasn’t convinced until he brought me a Harry Potter book back.” His eyes widened. “Have you ever read them? Wow. My customers can’t get enough of them.”
“Why were you there last night?”
“To stock up. But my plan didn’t go well. I couldn’t buy anything in your world. I didn’t have the right currency. I went into a big shop opposite the magic door and tried to bargain with a weird-looking man. He wouldn’t have it. He gave me funny looks and asked why I was in fancy dress. I didn’t like how he was looking at me so I left.”
A calculating look came into Basil’s eyes and he came closer. “Cassia, you can get the books for me. I’ll split the profits with you.”
“No, thanks. I’ll have to report this to Blythe. She can decide what’s going to happen to those books. You broke Brimstone law by going into my world. Basil, I’m going to search your premises.” I had no idea if I needed a warrant to do that, but I wasn’t going to tell Basil that.
“What for?” Basil asked.
“Evidence,” I replied.
Basil said, “I wasn’t the only one who knew about Uriah’s secret room. I heard Flint talking to Uriah the night before he died. Flint said they had a deal, but Uriah said he didn’t make deals with werewolves.”
I nodded. “We already know that.”
“I heard Flint muttering to himself as he walked away. I opened my window to hear him better. He said he’d get into Uriah’s secret room even if he had to kill Uriah to do so.” He pointed to something behind us. “Why don’t you have a word with him now?”
Chapter 26
Flint was standing in the gazebo, his eyes observing everything that was going on in the bookshop. As soon as he realised we’d seen him, he quickly looked away.
I was in a quandary. I wanted to search Basil’s property for Uriah’s book, but I wanted to talk to Flint too.
Just like a knight in shining armour, Luca walked into the bookshop. Without any preamble, I took him to one side and told him briefly about Basil and his possible involvement in Uriah’s death. Stanley added bits of information too.
I asked Luca, “Could you have a look for that book of Uriah’s, please? And could you cordon off that area behind the curtain? I don’t want any other customers to be fleeced by Basil.”
Luca nodded. “Of course I can. I’ll do anything to help. Are you sure it’s wise to be going after Flint on your own?”
Stanley said loudly, “She’s not alone. She’s got me. I’ll warn Cassia if she’s in any danger.”
“I know you will, my friend,” Luca said. “But what will Cassia do once she’s in danger? What if Flint attacks her?”
“I’ll use magic on him,” I said defiantly. “I know some stuff now, and I’ll use my stuff on him. Come on, Stanley.” I made to turn away. “Luca, thanks for your help.”
“Anytime. Take care.” He gave me a lingering look which I could well do without.
Stanley and I left the bookshop and jogged over to the gazebo. Flint was still watching us.
“You! Flint!” I called out and raised my broomstick at him. “I want a word with you. Well, more than one word.”
Flint looked as if he was about to say something insulting, but his nose wrinkled in disgust. He turned and fled from the gazebo like it was on fire.
I gave Stanley a quizzical look. “Do we still smell? I thought the horrible stench had gone.”
“Maybe werewolves are more sensitive to smells,” Stanley pointed out. “They are on Teen Wolf.”
“That’s true. But that’s just a TV show.” I saw Flint disappearing down a street. “He’s not getting away from us.” I held my broomstick low and said, “Hop on.”
Stanley bared his little teeth in a wide grin as he hopped onto the broomstick. As soon as he was on, I sat on it and we were soon flying high.
Stanley yelled with delight as we zipped over the streets in hot pursuit of Flint. The werewolf was travelling at quite a speed.
We kept up with Flint as he raced through the forest. He kept glancing upwards and was aware we were after him. We were doing well until he darted into a denser part of the forest. Soon, we couldn’t see the werewolf for the trees.
“We’ve lost him,” Stanley moaned. “What are we going to do now?”
“I have a plan.”
I steered us towards a small area filled with log cabins. I landed next to the biggest one and jumped off my broomstick. I walked over to a large man who was chopping wood. I called out a greeting.
The man turned his craggy, scar-filled face towards me with a ready smile. His smile dropped, and he took a step back.
“Hello, Strom,” I began. “Sorry about the smell. Blanche put a smell spell on Stanley and me. I thought it had all gone, but apparently not.”
Strom was the leader of Flint’s pack and was a decent man. I’d gained favour with him by finding out who’d killed one of his pack. He said he’d be more than happy to help me with any future investigations.
He didn’t look happy now. His eyes watered, and he looked like he was going to be sick.
Stanley said to me, “Can you do another clearing spell like Esther did on us? That might help.”
“I’ll try.” I quickly recalled Gran’s words and then attempted to perform the same magic on Stanley and me.
When I’d finished, I gave Strom a wary look and said, “Is that better?”
Strom took an intake of breath. “Yes, a bit. At least I can breathe again. What can I help you two with? I heard about the murder of Uriah Firenze. Are you here about that?”
“We are,” I said. “Flint was heard arguing with Uriah recently, and I wanted to talk to him about it.”
Strom frowned. “Where did this argument take place?”
“Outside the Razzle Dazzle club,” I told him.
Strom’s frown increased. “But that’s impossible. I’ve got Flint locked in a secure cage out back there. I’m punishing him for what he did to you and Esther.”
“You might want to check your locks. Stanley and I have just seen him in town, and he was at Uriah’s house the other day when we were there.”
Stanley said, “He threatened us. He said he was going to kill me and wear me as a hat.”
“He did what?” Strom’s voice rose and colour infused his face. He dropped the axe he was holding.
Stanley continued, “Cassia stood up to him. She wasn’t scared of him.”
“I was a bit,” I confessed. “Luckily, we stank so much that Flint ran away.”
Strom seemed to grow in front of me and his eyes flashed red. In a tightly controlled voice, he said, “Flint shouldn’t have been anywhere near you. He knows that. He’s gone too far this time. Follow me.”
He strode away. Stanley and I did our best to keep up with his long strides as we followed him.
After a few minutes, we came to a large, metal cage. There was a bed inside the cage along with a blocked off area which I assumed were toilet facilities. It looked like an open air prison cell. Flint was lounging on the bed looking bored.
Strom marched right up to the cage and banged on the bars. Flint stiffened and the bored look was replaced by one of fear. I could feel the anger radiating from Strom. I picked Stanley up and took a few steps back.
A low growl came from Strom and he ordered Flint to move to the bars.
Flint did so. Strom reached out and grabbed Flint by his arm. Flint yelped in pain. I put my hand over Stanley’s eyes. I didn’t want him to see this.
Strom said, “Not only have you escaped from this cage, you’ve been arrogant enough t
o think I would never find out. You are going to pay for this, Flint, in ways you can’t even imagine.”
Flint struggled under Strom’s firm grasp. “I don’t know what you’re talking about. I haven’t left this cage since you locked me in it. Don’t believe a word that nasty witch says.”
Strom roared with anger and flung Flint across the cage. He landed painfully against the opposite bars. I closed my eyes. I didn’t want to see this either.
I heard Strom calling my name. I opened them to see him looking at me with concern.
He said, “Sorry about that, Cassia. He’s pushed me too far. I’ll deal with him later. Ask him what you need to. I’ll be right at your side in case he thinks it’s a good idea to lie to you.”
I gave Strom a small nod. His eyes were glowing red and I felt more than a flicker of fear.
I moved as close as I dared to the cage. Stanley was still in my arms. I had a tremor in my voice as I said, “What were you arguing with Uriah about? You said you had a deal. What was the deal?”
Flint wiped blood from the corner of his mouth and gave me a dark look. A low growl from Strom chased that dark look away.
Flint said, “Uriah and I got drunk one night a few days back at the pub. It was the day before he died. We’re both outcasts in this town, through no fault of our own. We were moaning to each other about how unfair it was. Uriah got more drunk, and he told me he had a secret room in his house. One with a magic door. He told me he’d made a fortune by using that door. He’d discovered a magical world on the other side where everyone thought he was a hero. He said I could go through that door too if I protected him in this world.”
“Why did he need protecting?” I asked.
Flint gave me a look as if I were stupid. He explained, “Everyone hated Uriah. He was a loud-mouthed idiot with old-fashioned ideas. He’d upset many creatures in Brimstone. Someone was bound to catch up with him eventually. I agreed to his plan and when I heard him yelling outside the Razzle Dazzle club the other night, I went over and reminded him of our deal.” He shot me a dismissive look. “You probably know what he said to me.”
“I do.” I repeated Uriah’s reply to Strom.
Flint went on, “When Uriah died, I knew I had to get to his house quickly if I was to find that room of his. That’s why I was there the other day.” His nose wrinkled. “You still stink.”
I ignored his insult. Basil had also said he’d gone to Uriah’s house quickly after he died. I said to Flint, “Why did you turn up the day after he died? Surely his house wouldn’t be sold for weeks, perhaps months. Who would be interested in it? It’s almost falling down.”
Flint shook his head and gave me a sorry look. “You know nothing about this town. There’s already been a huge interest in Uriah’s house. There was a huge interest in it before he died.”
“Who from?” I asked.
“A certain someone who’d like to build a new nightclub. And a member of Uriah’s family who’d like to rip that monstrosity down and put up swanky new houses.”
“Gisela and Zeke?”
Flint tapped the side of his nose. “I’m not saying anything.”
The growl that came from Strom this time almost had me running for the trees.
Strom barked, “Answer Cassia!”
Flint shrunk under Strom’s intense stare. “Alright. Yes. Gisela and Zeke have shown an interest in Uriah’s house.”
Strom looked at me. “Is there anything else you need to know?”
I shook my head.
“In that case, Cassia, I think it would be a good idea if you left now. You don’t want to see what I’m going to do to Flint.”
He didn’t need to tell me twice. Stanley and I were on my broomstick and flying away from that cage within three seconds. I managed to get out a thank you before we whizzed away.
I said to Stanley, “I almost feel sorry for Flint.”
“Don’t. I can smell the evil on him, Cassia. I can feel how much he wants to cause you harm. Strom will take care of him now. He’ll make sure you’re not bothered by Flint again.”
“I hope you’re right.”
Chapter 27
Back to Brimstone we went. Our attention was drawn to a figure waving at us from outside Mooncrest Café. It was Luca.
We swooped down and landed at his side.
He shook his head in admiration. “You really are an expert on that broom, Cassia. Are you sure you haven’t been having secret lessons?”
“She hasn’t,” Stanley spoke for me as he jumped off the broomstick. “She’s a natural. I think I must be a natural too because I’m not scared of flying at all.”
Luca gave him a smile. “I’ve never flown before. I’m not sure if I’d be more scared of flying or the landing part.”
Stanley said, “You should go on Cassia’s broomstick with her. I think there’s enough room for two.”
I pulled the broomstick behind me. “I’m not sure about that. Luca, did you find anything in Basil’s shop?”
“I didn’t. I had a good look around, even in his private rooms. He followed me all the time and complained incessantly. I told him to direct his complaints to Blythe. How did you get on with Flint? You’re still in one piece, so that’s a good thing.” He smiled widely and his cheeks dimpled.
I said, “We did speak to him with Strom’s help.”
“Why did you need Strom’s help? Did Flint attack you?” His smile vanished and there was a touch of anger in his voice.
I flapped a hand at him. “No, nothing like that. Do you want to go into the café and I’ll tell you what happened?”
Luca nodded. “I was about to ask you the same thing. I’ve got something to tell you anyway. I was going to tell you earlier but you were in a rush.”
He opened the door to the café and indicated for Stanley and me to go through first. Once inside, Gilda floated over to us and I immediately thanked her for the presents she’d left in our apartment.
Stanley lifted his head and said, “That tuna pie was delicious. I’ve never tasted anything as wonderful as that.” He smacked his little lips together to prove his point.
Gilda bent down and stroked Stanley’s head. “It’s a good job I made extra. I’ll give you some to put in your fridge before you go. It’s nice when my food is appreciated.” She straightened up. “Cassia, how’s your investigation going?”
I hesitated before saying, “Good. I’m getting more information by the hour. I’m hoping it will all make sense to me soon.” I couldn’t tell her Gisela had been seen talking to Uriah on the night before he died. I’d rather talk to Gisela first.
Gilda nodded. “I’m sure the pieces will slot into place like a jigsaw puzzle. Now, would you mind if I brought you what you need rather than what you want? Excuse me for saying so, but you look a bit peaky. You need extra vitamins along with a dash of energy. I’ve got just the thing for you.”
“That sounds perfect. Thank you.”
Luca said, “I’ll have the same as Cassia. Thanks.”
Stanley added, “I wouldn’t mind some more of that tuna pie. Thanks ever so much.”
Gilda nodded in acknowledgement and glided away.
We took seats at a table by the window and I told Luca about our talk with Flint.
A muscle twitched in Luca’s cheek as he listened and I could sense he was angry.
Stanley must have sensed it too because he said, “Luca, why are you so annoyed? We took care of ourselves. We didn’t get hurt. Strom will deal with Flint now. He won’t bother us again.”
“He shouldn’t have bothered you in the first place,” Luca said. “He’s always been a hothead, but nothing like this.” He ran his hand over his forehead. “Sorry. I worry too much, especially about you two.”
Gilda silently appeared at our table and put plates and cups in front of us all. She lowered part of the table next to Stanley so he wouldn’t have to strain to reach his food.
I looked at the plate in front of me and my heart sank. “Fr
uit? I don’t think that will fill me up.”
Gilda smiled. “Try it. You enjoyed the salad I made for you before, didn’t you?”
“Oh, yes. It was the best salad I’ve ever had. It was so nice that it didn’t taste like salad at all.”
Confusion crossed Gilda’s face for a second. She shook her head and the confusion left her. She pointed to my plate. “You’ll enjoy that. There’s some fruit there that you’ll be familiar with, like strawberries and blueberries, but there’s some fruit that’s only available here in Brimstone. And that green smoothie at your side will give you a boost of energy. Trust me.” She turned away and left us.
I could feel Luca watching me as I tried the first bit of fruit. Stanley was too busy stuffing his furry face with tuna pie. I put a tiny bit of something orange and yellow in my mouth and bit into it.
Oh! It was like sunshine exploding on my tongue. The most delicious fruit juice danced over my tongue and woke up all my taste buds. It felt like my mouth was having a celebration. I swallowed the fruit and immediately shoved more in. I moved my head from side to side in happiness as the celebration continued. I didn’t know what kind of fruit it was, but it was making me feel incredibly happy. My feet began to tap and I thought I might leap up and start dancing.
I was so immersed in this new experience that I didn’t realise Luca was talking to me.
He tapped me on the arm and said, “I just asked what you thought of the fruit. I can see from your reaction that you love it.”
I waved my fork at him. “It’s marvellous. It’s wonderful. My whole body is alive and raring to go.” I took a glug of the smoothie and my happiness intensified. I couldn’t help myself; I punched the air and yelled, “Yes! It’s good to be alive!”
There was a sudden silence in the café. I heard Gilda say, ‘It’s her first time with Brimstone fruit.’ The customers continued talking.
Luca laughed and shook his head at me. “It’s so good to be around you, Cassia. I never know what you’re going to do next.”
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