“At the Guild there are numerous facets and specialisms. You will learn all the many areas, but just because you excel in one, it doesn’t mean you will earn yourself a place as a craftsman of the Guild. An understanding of all aspects is crucial to achievement.”

There were murmurs of confirmation from the other masters and craftsmen. Craftsman Primrose looked down and gave Prue a reassuring smile.

A flood of panic hit Prue. She figured she could find her way round the mechanical side of things, but didn’t have the first idea about anything else. But she reminded herself she just had to stay long enough to find a way to Francis without getting found out.

“But, if there is one thing I want you to take away from your time here it is this: a personifate is not property; they are friends, companions, vital parts of the working community of Medlock, and first and foremost they are individuals. My personal assistant, Zareen, is not only a colleague, but a good friend.” Master Woolstenbury nodded respectfully at the lynx, who returned the gesture.

“On that note, I would like to continue with a special announcement. We live in an era of great progress and change, and today is a momentous occasion for us at the Guild.” She gestured to a white personifate stoat who was standing not far from Zareen. “I would like to extend a warm welcome to former personifate technician Edwin Snow-Moon, who has been taken on as the first personifate apprentice.”

A flurry of looks exchanged – a range of shock, uncertainty and excitement. Chatter rippled throughout the atrium.

Prue noticed Cora roll her eyes.

“Edwin has shown an exceptional aptitude for design and creative thought, and will be joining Craftsman Primrose. Please take your place with the others, Apprentice Snow-Moon.”

Prue felt a pang of disappointment; she wasn’t sure she wanted to share her apprenticeship with anyone else.

Craftsman Primrose placed a hand gently on her shoulder. “Sorry, Frances. I couldn’t mention it before – Master Woolstenbury wanted to keep it a secret until today.”

A ripple of polite applause went around the atrium as the personifate stoat scampered nervously down the steps towards them and stood beside Craftsman Primrose.

Master Woolstenbury put her hand up for silence, which was almost instant. “We work together for a better, more understanding world for us all. If you work hard and remain at the factorium, you will all be privileged to be at the forefront of a bright future.

“Now, I would like to invite Governor Watson-Wentworth to say a few words. He has kindly joined us this morning, to officially share some more … exciting news.”

The Governor stood up. He wore a silk red cravat and shimmering gold jacket. He took a few moments, clearly enjoying all the eyes on him.