Beyond the end of the universe exists a city the size of a galaxy, packed with every human being that ever lived, from the first Australopithecus to the last posthuman, resurrected in a city in which nobody can die…or rather, that used to be the case. 

Highbury is a story in the first ever City of the Saved short story collection, edited by the man who created it for the Faction Paradox Book of the War, Philip Purser-Hallard.

Here is an extract...

Of the two sisters, it was Miss Maitland who was usually considered the greater beauty.  She was tall and well formed, with a fair complexion.  Miss Sophia, on the other hand, had freckles and red hair, yet her figure had a pleasing elasticity and her face an animation wholly lacking in that of her sister.  In character they were as little alike as they were in appearance, but both were generally considered good-natured, accomplished young women.

‘I hardly know what I wish for!’ replied Sophia, throwing herself down onto the settle.  ‘It is all very well for you, Maria.  Your life will change soon enough, and there will be variety and enjoyment enough for you.  I am to remain here in Highbury District, and be dull.’

‘It is by no means certain that my marriage will take place so soon as you imagine,’ replied Maria.  ‘John has not yet concluded his business in the Romuline, and there is no guarantee that it will be finished soon.’

‘How can you be so calm!’ cried her sister.  ‘I am sure I should not be so, in your place.  Although if Papa has his will, I never shall be in your place.  How am I to meet young men if Papa will never allow us to travel?’

‘There is Captain Wainwright.  Mamma would not have invited him to stay had she not believed him in every way to be a respectable young man.’

‘Captain Wainwright is a very pleasing young man, I am sure, but I do not see how I could attach myself to a man who has swim bladder and gills, be he ever so eligible.  Besides, he is looking to purchase an estate here, and I would not wish to be settled in Highbury all my afterlife.’

‘Mr Davenport, then.’

‘Captain Wainwright’s friend?’

‘The same.  He has no gills.’

‘Is he of independent means?’

‘I believe so.’

‘His appearance is not without distinction.  I shall consider the matter.’