"Good afternoon, and welcome, although it is difficult to welcome someone to this city in good faith," says a man's voice, British. He's recited something similar to this many times now for newcomers; it's smooth and automatic for him now.

"My name is Mayland Long. You are not in any immediate physical danger... well, except perhaps from that injury on your leg... but you, I'm afraid, trapped in this city with many other people."