Chapter 308
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After these two were executed Eve tried to believe it was neccessary. To make other prisoners work, even the woman's own daughter seemed to feel it had to be done. And what else should've been done? Exile? They'd have been executed by the loyalists for leaving the sector. Some had escaped, God only knew if any of them were still alive. Rumor was the loyalist soldiers were placing landmines on their side of the wall, and Eve had heard explosions at times. There had to be punishments for breaking the law, or the people would have to reason to behave. None of this logic would make it easier on Eve, she would have to live with the sounds she heard on this night. After this, when Eve returned home, she saw Jamal. The look on his face said he'd seen something similar. She never asked Jamal if he participated, he never asked her. They just hugged, and held each other for comfort.
Things calmed down after the executions. Most of the contraband was returned. Some remained missing, was gradually traded off in the sector. By this time Eve had an informant. A man named Lester, who promised to keep her informed about any kidnapping or murder plots that he heard about. He also gave Eve some candy bars and ciggarettes as a gift. Lester seemed to believe he was performing a public service, selling people little vices to take their minds off the countdown. And it seemed more important than ever for things to remain calm in the sector. Zoey Allen was again coming here on a diplomatic mission. She was returning to the sector where people had once tried to murder her, not so long ago. This could be troubling.