“Rumours are abound that shadowy, US-based organisation Sect may be widening it’s sphere of influence to encompass Europe.”

Lark let out a mirthless laugh, shaking his head at the Newsoid which supposedly ‘updated’ him on world affairs – it had been giving him the same story every morning for six years.

Swift was due back soon. The tracking console showed her high over the Atlantic, ready to re-enter the troposphere just outside city limits.

The problem trying to face off an immensely powerful, world-enslaving organisation isn’t tech. We’ve got Owl for that. It’s distance…

“Busy, bird boy?” Swift jibed, feathers ruffled.

Personal joke…

“You were quick Swift.”
“They’re getting slacker on AirDef – I took the Thames route no trouble.”
“You got the chip?”
“No I flew back empty…”
“Handed?”
“Funny. Of course I got it, now get me on an Ave-Station.”

Lark unlocked the control unit, and gently fixed the bird into a wrought-iron cage.

He looked away as a beautiful, naked young woman stepped out.