Mortal Engines

The next morning in London, Katherine puzzles over the chase the night before and her father’s uncharacteristic anger. She’s determined to make sure Tom’s all right, but her father tells her that Hester dragged Tom down the waste chute with her and that he’s likely dead. Hester’s backpack is on the table. Katherine sees Hester’s scarred face on identification papers, but Valentine burns the sheet before Katherine notices anything else, which makes Katherine sad and suspicious. For years, her father has felt like her best friend, but she can tell he’s “keeping something from her about this girl” (44-45).

The Lord Mayor, Magnus Crome, arrives to speak with Valentine. Katherine dislikes Crome and hides to eavesdrop on the conversation. Crome reprimands Valentine for not making certain Tom and Hester are dead. London has something called MEDUSA, which Valentine killed Hester’s mother to get, and Crome is taking London eastward to an unknown destination. Crome orders Valentine to scout ahead to make sure the way is clear. When Valentine asks about Hester, Crome tells him not to worry. He has someone who will find the girl and “finish the job you failed to do” (49).