Chapter 159: So That’s How It’s Fueled
The Apache’s rotors gradually slowed as Inigo guided the helicopter down toward a narrow plateau nestled between ridges. It wasn’t ideal—steep drop-offs lined either side and rocky outcrops dotted the uneven ground—but it was the only suitable place for miles. The low hum of the machine’s turbine engines faded as he eased the craft down, skids touching the surface with a muted clank.
Lyra braced herself against the frame, watching the terrain rise to meet them. Her knuckles were still white from gripping the console’s edge. Flying was one thing—this was something else entirely.
With a hiss, the canopy popped open, releasing a gust of warm air that carried the scent of singed oil, scorched metal, and wilderness pine.
"We’re out?" she asked, glancing over.
"Nearly," Inigo replied, stepping down from the cockpit. "Fuel’s below reserve. Can’t push it further."
He moved with practiced familiarity, already activating the maintenance interface tucked beneath the right landing skid. Lyra followed, eyes scanning the strange contraption’s underbelly, watching the landing gear compress against the uneven rock.
"You said this thing doesn’t run on magic," she muttered.
"It doesn’t." He gave her a small grin. "But it might as well be."
He swiped open his system panel, invisible to her, and navigated the Freedom Shop. A dozen fuel types appeared, but he narrowed it quickly.
Item: JP-8 Military Aviation Fuel
Type: Kerosene-Based Turbine Fuel
Volume: 500 liters