no one could afford them but the very rich. Illegal
prostitution was also hit hard. Many women that were virtual slaves
were freed and reimbursed for their seasons of misery.
16 Bullet was always very busy; Sometimes personally
leading raids, other times, directing four or five major operations
from their new headquarters at Northern. One day, though, Bright
Serpent came in and slapped three pieces of paper on his desk. "What
are these?" asked Bullet.
17 "Letters of complaint from three prisoners in the national prison at
Northern. They were delivered to me yesterday by a representative from
Fair Punishment."
18 "Them, again?" complained Bullet. "I thought we had that taken care
of."
19 "You can't outlaw sincere belief," answered Bright Serpent. "The
people think they're fighting for a worthy cause, and these complaints
sound legitimate. They speak of Guard harassment and Guards making
indecent suggestion, and taking unfair advantage. I want you to go up
and have a look. I simply don't have time, but I want someone to go who
will bring me back a thorough report."
20 Bullet picked up the papers. "Well, all right," he agreed. "I'm not too busy right now anyway. I can go up today." He
reached around and put the papers in his pocket. "I've got a few pieces
of paperwork then, I'll get a Driver and go up."
21 The drive out of the city was pleasant, and Bullet sat back and
relaxed. The elevated highway gave him a good view of the countryside.
When they turned off and headed for the entrance of the huge prison
complex, Bullet wished he could see the layout but all that could be
seen from the road was a few air vents and the farms that covered the
roofs.
22 As they entered the entrance, there were crowds around the gate
shouting "Barbarians! Butchers! Maimers!"