One perk of assisting with rebuilding is that midday brings a lunch break with food provided. After all, though the whole town is dealing with a food shortage, those who are exerting themselves to restore the public buildings need food to keeping going. There are... ahem, plenty of sweet potato dishes, as well as portions of venison for each volunteer, and dishes contributed by those who have resources to spare.

"Thank you for helping," says Chris, handing Muriel a large mug about three-quarters full of a thick lentil soup they made. It should be easy to tell, at a glance, why this tall, skinny person isn't helping with heavy lifting tasks (no muscle definition to speak of). They smile. "We all appreciate it."