The exposure of the open-sided floor was a shock. Behind them, in the jumble of collapsed beams, lay their tiny bolt hole, now invisible among the chaos of the partially collapsed tower block. Just a few steps in front was a vertiginous drop. Jagged concrete teeth stretched towards them from the jaws of the city, its hazy breath obscuring their roots.
Flora struggled to catch her breath, her mind reeling. She had to keep going—be strong— if any of them were to survive. They had most of their gear, some food, and water...
‘We forgot the water!’ she exclaimed aloud, burying her head in her hands, before quickly recoiling. Peeling her fingers away, she looked in horror at her hands. They were coated in the sticky blood of the Twin. Small chunks of concrete stuck to her palms, and now to her face. She tried to wipe herself clean as a sense of panic simmered in her belly.
Ratter, who was crouched next to her, caught her eyes. A decision passed wordlessly between them. In an instance he turned and hurried back towards the exit from the den.
‘Be careful!’
