Rivalry and Steam Monsters by A. F. Stewart

Author:A. F. Stewart
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: steampunk detectives, steampunk, mystery, supernatural detectives, steampunk fantasy, steampunk mystery, steampunk victorian, steampunk adventure mystery, victorian steampunk cozy mysteries, supernatural british mystery
Publisher: A. F. Stewart
Published: 2024-10-15T00:00:00+00:00

BY LUNCHEON, ELSPETH worked out a scheme to explore Markham Laboratory. After a quick meal, they spent the remainder of the afternoon on preparations, with a small interruption when a messenger delivered the monetary sums from Elspeth’s father. As dusk approached, they stood ready to implement their campaign.

“I’m still unsure as to exactly why we’re returning to the river below Markham?” Lars asked.

“You saw the blueprints. There appears to be passageways under the building and running to the Thames. I wish to locate the riverside entrance to that tunnel.”

“Won’t that be difficult? What if it’s underwater or partially submerged? It’s not as if we have a submersible handy.”

“Yes, that would have been useful. A shame Father’s machine sunk in Loch Ness on our last trip to Scotland. We could have borrowed it for a proper investigation, but no matter, we’ll make do.” She shrugged. “We're heading to the river to search for clues. We may locate the tunnel entrance or not, but there is bound to be debris and signs of activity ashore. And those outbuildings could be storage facilities used for repairs. If we can’t find anything in our first reconnaissance, then we shall endeavour to storm the laboratory itself.”

“Not that burrowing under the fence plan?”

“And what’s wrong with that?” Elspeth made a face at Lars. “It’s a perfectly good idea, if that back area is secluded enough. We should be able to dig under the perimeter and sneak into the premises.”

“I know. I simply hate digging.”

“Buck up, it might not come to that.” She smiled and clapped him on the shoulder. “Are we ready then? Everything packed?”

“Yes,” Lars held up a large carpet bag containing their equipment and some weaponry. “And Willoughby has loaded that monstrosity onto the mount for transport. I still think that weapon is excessive and risky.”

“Pish posh. It’s a last resort, but better to have it than not. Let’s be off then.”

The pair made their way to the motorized carriage, now back in working order thanks to Willoughby, and with Elspeth at the wheel they drove off to investigate Markham Laboratory, making record time in arriving.

The fading rays of the early evening sun kissed the water and mingled with the lengthening shadows as they parked their vehicle and trailer in a secluded spot. Elspeth—clad in sturdy leather boots this time—led the way to the riverbank, scouring the ground for indications of human activity, until Lars hauled her back behind the cover of a fishing shack.

“Shhh,” he whispered into her ear. “I think we stumbled on what we were seeking.” He pointed to a group of men huddled on the shore. Voices drifted on the air and the pair settled in to eavesdrop.

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