They logged onto the Internet from the computer in their room, but were shocked to learn they couldn’t buy tickets online; all long-distance travel had to be coordinated through a licensed travel agent. “Controlling terrorists, I guess,” Green said with a shrug.
They tried phoning, but were told they must apply for their tickets in person. Fortunately there was a licensed agent just four blocks from their hotel. One of her first questions was whether they had the proper travel passes, a question that stumped all three of them. When Green told the woman that they were all sleepers just released from the army, she gave them a broad smile and said she’d do anything she could to help them.
Travel passes were necessary for anyone entering the bigger cities these days, she explained. Ever sinc
