Harlot, Page 1

PAGE ONE

Panel 1

We see Harlot, who seems like the archetypal comic book superheroine, like a masked hooker, crouching in the shadows of a subway as busy travelers move about their business.

CAPTION: The Ferryman patrols these tunnels.

CAPTION: But I was here before him.

Panel 2

Still in the shadows, Harlot has removed her mask. She’s spotted a well-dressed man surrounded by an entourage of assistants: Hemingway, as he appears in DEAD BUTLERS. This takes place in the aftermath of that story.

CAPTION: I was here when it all began.

Panel 3

Harlot is slipping on an overcoat to hide her costume when she spots an assassin pulling a gun out of his pocket at the periphery of the crowd around Hemingway.

CAPTION: I should have stopped it.

CAPTION: God knows.

Panel 4

Even in his civilian mode, Hemingway doesn’t hesitate to take action. He’s knocking the gun out of the assassin’s hand as Harlot retreats back into the shadows.

CAPTION: He didn’t deserve to become such a hard man.

Panel 5

Harlot has vanished into the shadows except her eyes. Comic book magic. Hemingway is grasping the assassin by the collar, clearly demanding answers.

CAPTION: Poor Hemingway.

CAPTION: My nephew.