"It was the war," M replied, mingling a small nod of gratitude with a swift and practiced gloss over memories now six decades old and personal besides.

The wince was noted and stored ruthlessly away for potential use or investigation later, but in some small attempt at kindness, or simply good sense, she offered a change of subject back to earlier philosophy.

"They fought for a better world. What they won... well, it seems to be the chance to go on fighting for it."