‘…Marcus is a trained fighter, but lazy with it. Between the three of you, I think you can take him. Gertrude knows how to handle herself and you’re pretty handy with those knives, Explorer Girl.’
The rend shuddered, purple electricity began to flicker about it and a smell of sulphur permeated the air. Bartitsu strode toward it.
‘But Marcus got the better of you,’ Connie said to his back, appalled at
Bartitsu’s attitude.
‘So don’t let him drug you.’ Bartitsu disappeared inside the rend…

It sealed rapidly behind him, catching the tail end of his coat. A frayed

piece of fabric floated to the floor, loose threads dangling

uselessly from frayed edges.

‘Would that happen to us if we didn’t get through the tear

in time?’ Cook asked, stooping to pick up the piece of black

fabric.

‘Let’s not find out, ok?’ Connie said, extending a hand to him."