Sugar Plum Faeries: Spirit Springs Short Story

‘Tis the busy season in Willow Adam’s bakery, Ambrosia. The Winter Holidays are upon her and even the whisk and rolling pin are working on their own. She calls for more magical help, but instead of her fae relatives appearing, Nigel Walsh walks in. He reminds her that she is the keeper of the Heart of Spirit Springs this coming year, an artifact of ancient and mysterious origins that protects this special town. Willow doubles down to finish her orders in time with the assistance of elves, other magical beings, and two teenagers to deliver the pastries.

But when it comes time to deliver the Heart to the all-important tree lighting ceremony, the silver orb is nowhere to be found. Did one of the teenagers deliver it to an unsuspecting mundane? Had the potent magic proved irresistible to one of the elves? Had some pixie made off with it, delighting in the chaos its absence would cause? Maybe a member of the Celestial Throne had taken it as a winter solstice gift to Queen Dôn in hopes of gaining favor.

Will the Heart be found in time?