The soldier's voice was sharp and commanding, leaving no room for argument.
Suzy slowly raised both hands to show she carried no weapon.
"We don't mean any harm," she said calmly. "We just wanted to ask if we could trade for something."
The guard swept a cautious gaze over her, then past her toward Thomas and Leonard standing behind her. His eyes lingered on each of them before he finally asked, "Trade for what?"
"Cement," Suzy replied. "We need some cement. We can exchange supplies for it. Food, medicine, anything."
The guard's expression did not change. He merely glanced back toward the factory grounds before shaking his head.
"No. All supplies here have been requisitioned. Nothing is available for trade. Leave immediately."
Suzy refused to give up.
"We only need a little. Even a few bags would do. We can trade double the supplies in return…"
