Tal was not fond of the Projects. They were not fond of her. She was from Marcy. A slummer. Still, they did not let their sectarianism get in the way of business. Tal thought the Projects were full of angry immigrants who looked down on the district people, but she was happy to trade with them. Their black market was more prosperous here than where she lived. In her district, people don't have there money to buy a leather jacket like this! Only trade it... No point trading old shoes for bread when some real dough could be made by taking a trip to the Projects.

She knew which building to go to. Thirty Ninth floor. Flat 39026. That's what her friend Silvia told her. She knocked on the door.

"[b]Who's there?[/b]"

"My name's Taleste. Silvia told me about you. I have a leather jacket to sell."

"[b]Come in.[/b]"
. 
She enters the flats. It wasn't a house. The hall looked like an office. Every room in the flats was filled with cardboard boxes. At the far end of the hall was a desk, and sitting at it was a bearded man wearing a long coat and a trilby. There were several burly men behind him, holding guns.

"[b]Hmm, that is a fine quality leather jacket. How did a slimmer like you get the money to buy one?[/b]"

Tale was quiet.

"[b]Just kidding. I can see 'thief' all over your face. It would be better if you gave me nothing. Both you sand that jacket are less than nothing. I can't sell that! I may as well moon the Authority! Get the fuck out of my office. But leave the jacket."[/b]"

Taleste opens her mouth, but the big men stare menacingly at her. She shuts her mouth, and takes the jacket off. Tears were practically forming in her eyes. She was going to have a strong word with Silvia about this. That was when one of the men whispered in the boss' ear. They all headed out straight after, leaving Taleste alone in the office.

That's when she heard the explosion,.