Monthey
sous pression

A river of lava is normal. A pipe sweating cold, much less so.

At the foot of the mountains, the factories run day and night, and zeppelins moor on the roof of the Crochetan theatre. Carnival is approaching. Floats are being built, the guggen bands are rehearsing, and everyone is preparing for the Great Venting, the night when the town opens its valves to release the pressure.

In his workshop, Julius knows the sounds of the network. This particular pulse is new. When the Vieux Pont cracks and a cold mist spreads through the streets, the mechanic starts asking questions. At the Château, he is advised to go back to bed. The Industries prefer to block his path.

It will take more than a sign to stop him.

With the help of those who keep the town running without ever getting a say in how it is run, Julius makes his way from beneath the theatre to the mountainside. The Tsevarin accompanies him, alert to signs Julius cannot yet read. As they advance, the installations reveal secrets no one wants to answer for.

Soon, the drums will drown out the noise of the pipes. The valves will open at the appointed time.

All that remains is to keep the town from blowing up. Without permission, of course.