‘I was part of the team that toppled the Spire,’ continued the refugee. ‘Hundreds of people kept at the thing until finally it fell, crushing forty people as it did so.’

The refugee shook his head.

‘I have no family left so was able to flee in the confusion without fear of reprisals.’

‘You are welcome to stay here with us,’ said Iseult kindly. ‘We could use the help.’

‘Help you with what?’ asked the refugee incredulously. ‘There is nothing left.’

‘Actually,’ replied Iseult, ‘there is everything left.’