Previously: A kengto, a ravenous beast from a neighbouring dimension, is rampaging around London. The SDC are in way over their heads and their last hope is drafting in a group of monster hunters from Palinor called The Six Blades. Pursuing the creature via airship, they are now approaching Mid-Earth’s Westminster clock towers…
This chapter unlocks 10 June 2022. Early access subscribers can read immediately.
Night shift
On duty: All officers
London.
1973. February.
The cold night air whipped through Lola’s hair, involuntary tears forming in the corners of her eyes as the life boat dropped in pursuit of the kengto. She gripped the rails, knuckles white, fighting the nausea that threatened to overwhelm her. There was no scenario in which she was going to vomit in the presence of the Six Blades.
“Whatever happens,” Ellenbrin said, “stay back and stay behind us. Don’t do anything stupid.”
“Hey, I’m the one that pushed you out of the way of the thing back at the museum,” Lola said. “Just before it munched you.” She was still replaying that moment in her mind.
Ellenbrin stared at her disapprovingly. “Yes, you stopped me from firing my last shot, which is why we’re in this situation now. Don’t interfere.”
Lola felt her confidence drip away, her shoulder slumping.
Probably noticing her reaction, Ellenbrin grinned and slapped her on the shoulder. “It was still brave, greenhorn. Don’t take it personally. But we’re professionals.”
“So am I,” Lola said, pointlessly, feeling and sounding pathetic. She regretted saying it immediately.
“Not at this, Lola,” Ellenbrin said.
“Coming up on target!” Halbad shouted. He grabbed the pilot. “Can you bring us in fast? Circle around the towers?”