Commissioned by Daikanu!

Far below the Daylight Level and Dusk Level of the megalopolis lies the Midnight Level, also known as the Undercity. There, exiles crouch around fires burning in corroded barrels, sheltered by the crumbling ruins of the 20th century. At this depth, the only tech is scrounged half-broken from the garbage heaps and wired to old, failing ZPE generators. Down here it is dangerous, though not as lawless as one would expect. Some of the exiles are criminals; others have more complicated reasons to stay hidden. All of them have something to run from, or their parents did, or their grandparents. Whatever the reason, they know they are on their own. But there are tales of those from above who risk everything and brave the dark to aid the ones who live there. One such tale tells of a nameless giraffe with a stalwart smile and the inexplicable strength of an ox, fearlessly rappelling down through the abyss to bring rations, medical supplies, even toys for the little ones. She never asks for anything in return, just grins and tells them to keep holding on. Because someday, she knows, things will get better...