Jonte was used to the fact that other people were inscrutable. He would have been able tell from gazing in a mirror into his own eyes, with their blue irises surrounding dark pupils, how he was feeling, even if he hadn't known already. But other people's eyes were silver discs, giving away nothing. He could sometimes see from the rest of their faces whether they were happy or sad, smiling or frowning; but their skin reflected the light, so that he could never be quite sure. From the way they were sitting, he thought, the visitors seemed anxious.

"Jonte", the Principal said, "these people have a favour to ask, and I hope you can help them. Please sit down."

Jonte's surprise grew. What possible favour could these people want from someone like him?

"I'll help if I can", he said.

"You know," the Principal went on, "that you have had to grow up here because going outside would be dangerous. Your body wouldn't be able to withstand the radiation, even at night-time. Ordinary people are born with protection; but in your case…."

"So you see", one of the women interjected quickly, "you are really a very interesting young man. We want you to let us get to know you better."

"The people here," the Principal resumed, "are from the government's science and research council. They would like to take you to one of their centres in the south, where the facilities are supposed to be better than we can provide…."

"But I'm quite happy here," Jonte felt he should say. "My friends….."

"….and in any case, "the Principal insisted a trifle sourly, "you wouldn't be able to stay much longer. The shelter is being closed down."

Jonte took this in. "So when do I have to go?" he asked.

"If you can pack your things together quickly, "one of the men replied, "we should like to move you this evening…say in an hour. Is that all right?"