In January 2009, the journalist Lasantha Wickrematunge was assassinated on the streets of Colombo on the way to work. He devoted his life to seeking and telling the truth. In August 2006, seventeen Sri Lankan aid workers were assassinated in Muttur (Eastern Province). They worked for Action contre la Faim, a French NGO that is committed to ending world hunger and provides food, water and sanitation. Their names were: R. Arulrajah, M. Narmathan, S. Koneswaran, T. Pratheeban, R. Sivapiragasham, G. Kavitha, M. Rishikesan, A. Jaseelan, K. Kovarthani, V. Kokilavathni, ALM. Jawffar, Y. Kodeeswaran, SP. Anantharajah, I. Muralitharan, G. Sritharan, M. Ketheeswaran and S. Ganesh. No one was ever brought to justice for these crimes. This novel was first inspired by them and it is informed by the human rights reports of civil society organisations inside and outside Sri Lanka, who courageously hold power accountable for its abuses. As Human Rights Watch says, tyranny has a witness. This book is also based on first-hand accounts from extraordinary activists, lawyers, journalists and survivors in Sri Lanka. Mikke nandri for sharing your lived experience with me. I have tried to honour you with this story.