Noting with dismay the unfortunate rate of dangerous accidents occurring due to the haphazard mining and interest the amount of useful material still available in the abandoned shafts, Turtle quickly steps in to give the miners more direction.  He makes it clear that Tycho is still in charge overall, but the Lunar begins taking a role in the direct supervision, as well as selecting where exactly the mining should be concentrated.  His first act as shift boss is to institute some basic rules that will hopefully ensure that fewer accidents occur due to inexperience, such as ensuring that each group includes at least one member with previous experience in mining.

Turtle begins to exhibit an approachable attitude, both toward the other Exalts and the mortals.  He appears uncomfortable with positions of higher authority - even directing the laborers is handled informally, generally through polite suggestions and simple demonstration rather than outright orders.

Leading his fellow Exalts a short distance away from where the refugees are taking a much earned break, the Solar stops near an ore cart that has been flipped over to serve as cover in mock-combat. Tycho sits, his heavy frame causing the big ore car he rests on to groan.

"You two have been working closer with them on some levels than I have," he begins, looking back and forth between the two. It almost sounds like an accusation, perhaps a bit of parental jealousy. "But even I can look at them and gauge their mood. They're still just... refugees. They're still just a bunch scared people hiding out in these tunnels, terrified of the Peaceforce coming down on them. They're doing a lot better than they were when we first got here, but learning how to hurt the Peaceforce with a shovel isn't learning how to be defeat them."

"Starting tomorrow, I'm going to stop the physical training and I'd like you two to help me with something. I want to teach them how to read."

The doctor looks back towards the mechanical man with a reappraising look. The smile on his lips widens slightly, and he tilts his head to one side, still wiping his hands on the towel he had picked up.

"I have been with these people for some time, yes, mister Tycho. You are quite right - they are refugees. They were raised in such an environment, made to believe that is all there was to their existence. Fear, submission, and obedience. Those were the things they were shaped to respect and follow. But now... Now that worldview has been shattered, and although those are confusing times, there is also the opportunity for it to be a liberating ones."

Higura put the towel back in place, then nodded towards Tycho. "You have my complete support, mister Tycho." He extended a hand forward, as a sign of agreement. "We helped them escape, but they are still prisoners. Let us teach them how to be people."

Saffron's face is undecipherable as she asks quietly, "And if they do not desire to read? What will you want them to do? Can they continue to work the mines or practice fighting? Remember, these people have barely tasted freedom. Some will need more time to relax and come to terms before they desire anything beyond what they are doing now. We cut the chains free from their feet, but the mind may not have had the time to remove those. And even then some may be content to remain as they are. We also must remember they are not like us, most of their thoughts are going to continue to tend toward where the next meal is going to come from and how to obtain the finances or the skills to get it. And that lack of foresight on their part is something we will have to respect. I want to be clear I will help you, but I will not force the unwilling."
This message was last edited by the player at 15:25, Sat 21 Feb 2009.

"People are powerful, but without guidance they are just the Mob. The Mob does not build nations, it does not even protect itself. All the Mob does is destroy. It's only purpose is to tear down the foundations of the establishment. It can rise no higher. Education is key to establishing a lasting order. One of the most heinous forms of tyranny is for those with it to withhold it from those without," Tycho says, his voice intoned slightly as if quoting from somewhere or someone else.

Which, indeed, he was.

The ore cart groaned as the mechanical Solar leaned forward on it, his unblinking white eyes like two moons glowing down on Saffron. Her reasoning does not impress him much nor her sentiments. "We don't have to respect their lack of foresight. You should never respect a lack of foresight. Shortsightedness is an ill to be cured, not a trait to be celebrated."

"They have basic needs. We are already working towards fulfilling them. The bonds will never leave their minds if we don't start making them think. The only difference between using your arm to break a stone and using your mind to break a problem is which part of your body you use to do it."

"My apologies..." Drachma has separated from the group of resting refugees, likely intending to speak with Tycho on some matter, but stepping into a conference between the Exalts instead. "I can come back later." He nearly looks as if he'll simply walk on, but something makes him pause, turn back.

"But if you would hear me out I would tell you, sirs, that I am in agreement with Captain Tycho. I do think that there are some that may not take well to book-learning. But those who remain unlearned can be easily influenced to betray us. Too much choice can be just as much a danger as too little. Certain necessities must be seen to, whether the value of such is immediately seen or not. You would not have refused that Grinning Turtle taught proper mining techniques, or taught us how to prepare cavefish properly."

"But forgive me if I speak out of turn. As I am not the teacher, I will not decide." The older mortal nods gruffly and steps back, acknowledging his position as a 'vassal' of sorts. "I will tell you that a few of our number do know how to read their letters in Low Realm. I am fortunate to be one of those." As Tycho already knows, from his private lessons in tactics and strategy.
This message was last edited by the GM at 01:29, Tue 24 Feb 2009.

"Might I suggest a consensus, then?" Higura starts, softly, as the others argue their viewpoints. He speaks with a polite, even tone, obviously trying to offer some common ground in the situation in order to achieve a suitable compromise for all involved.

"I would believe it would be advantageous to teach the refugees as well - if only so that they reach a greater sense of autonomy. The last thing we want to encourage is too grand a sense of dependency on us or any other type of mender... If we do, the consequences could be quite damaging to the refugees themselves. Should they be separated from us or their group, they might find themselves limited in their ability to better their situation, and that is not something any man or woman should ever be faced with."

He pauses, then nods to those assembled around him, making certain to include Drachma as well, to let the man know that as the spokesperson of the refugees, he has a voice in this matter as well. "To help ease the minds of everyone, I propose this. I believe that we should go as suggested and teach the refugees how to read. Meanwhile, I will also hold sessions in order to properly explain to each and everyone of them why their learning would be beneficial. It is important to note that many of these people's choices are based on what they have been brought up with, and the dogma they have known all their lives. It is primordial to offer a counterpoint to this viewpoint, so that they are made aware that the 'truths' that were enforced upon them during captivity are not as absolute as they might believe."

"For having worked with them, I would believe that once they are exposed to differing points of views and alternate truths, they will see the benefits in learning to make their own decisions - and what mister Tycho wishes to offer is merely a tool for such decision-making."

Oh ho? So I'm a Captain now, am I?

Tycho thinks with a touch of bemusement. It was quiet a leap, from the official rank of 'Riot Control and Population Pacification Equipment, Serial Mark 00' to Captain. He's not even certain yet how comfortable he is with that title, but does not rebuke Drachma for using it. He does give his mortal second a nod of encouragement, however, letting him know his input was welcome here.

"I'm not opposed to that idea," Tycho says, nodding at Higaru's suggestion. "It would be a shame to see any of them reject the proposition without even realizing what they are being offered. Too many do."

Saffron's response is a nod of assent. "I suppose that would be fair. As long as there is choice involved, I would gladly teach them, while I can."

"Eventually, our paths may separate. If any one of these people should choose to remain here when you move forward, I would ask that I stay among them. I am a woman of peace; it is not my place to stand in the front lines. It is my duty, rather, to ensure that the war that you intend to start within these walls does not harm those innocent to it."

She presses her hands together in a gesture of goodwill, bowing her head slightly. "But do not misunderstand. I understand that freedom cannot always be won with words. Both of you have your place in the future of Five Coils, as do I."

"Then it is decided." He tilts his head towards the mechanical man, regarding him carefully. "I believe we should hold a meeting stating our intent first, so the refugees know what we are planning to do - if only so no one among them suspects that we are doing covert dealings behind their back. Once that is done, I will meet with them myself and explain the reasons behind this initiative, so as to explain properly why it would be important for them. I will start my counter-propaganda effort from there."

"Also, as an added recommendation, I would ask that Mister Drachma be recognized as the official voice of the refugees, if you would so accept." The doctor turns towards the mortal, a faint smile tracing his lips as he continues to explain. "You seem to have taken on the role of spokesperson for the group, and that is something that will become more and more necessary as time goes by. First because it is not yet certain that the refugees will say everything to any of us - either through awe or fear or for other reasons, they might not speak of all the matters that concern or affect them. As such, it would be a great asset to have a representative that they would feel can speak in their name, so we always have the best possible level of communication."
This message was last edited by the player at 01:15, Thu 26 Feb 2009.

Drachma inclines his head to Higura and Tycho, more comfortable with the secondary role to the massive machine-man. "If what you wish is to make it official, I would not shy from such a duty. But I will confess, it seems they have all but chosen me for it. I served guard duty in the Pit, and have had some experience organizing men. Nothing quite so ambitious as what we are attempting now, though."

"But I am proud to be a part of it."
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:25, Fri 27 Feb 2009.

As the second week comes to a conclusion, the combat training, mining excursions and evening counseling sessions continue to bolster the laborers' physical prowess and confidence. Tycho, Turtle and Higura are considered the respective authority figures for these activities; few at this point would question that they deserve their positions, whether they aspired to them or not.

Turtle seems to have gained a reputation among the refugees as a highly dependable leader, despite his humility and slow-moving nature. Once they realize he knows what he's doing and has their best benefit in mind, his calm, measured suggestions are considered sound advice, and they do not need to be pushed to follow his directions. The refugees periodically bring in iron ore, limestone, coal and clay, arranging the raw materials in the mining settlement's nearby storage caverns.

Saffron keeps working with Tamra to produce medicines and deal with whatever scrapes, bruises and broken bones crop up from mock skirmishes or mining mishaps. She listens to those who wish her counsel, but otherwise does not influence their choices in any way.
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:42, Thu 26 Mar 2009.

Week 3

The third week of freedom starts uneventfully, at least for Saffron and Turtle, who confine themselves to their own insular activities: healing and potion brewing for the former, food and resource gathering for the latter. They have both become rather quiet, distancing themselves from the other Exalts; there are rumors that one or both is considering to depart from the camp for a time.

Nonetheless, they have yet to announce any official decisions, and still continue to aid the refugees in their own way with words, medicine and labor. As Saffron was the one most opposed to 'forcing' knowledge upon the refugees, though, it is uncertain how much help she will be in terms of teaching them to read. That leaves Higura to do the majority of instruction -- when he can find the time.

The arrival of Talia and the Immaculates injects an ambiance of excitement and expectation into the camp. Are we leaving so soon? Will there be more attacks? What does the entire situation mean for our safety? For the refugees Tycho is training, the battle was the first true test of the skills the machine-man has been drilling into them daily. Though it ended shortly after their entrance, many of them still consider it their first real skirmish, as they participated not as helpless people needing protection, but as part of the offensive. It should not be a surprise, then, that many refugees opt to be included in the debriefing with Nanaret (now visiting from the B25 Laborer's Conclave) and Talia (who just plain needs to know what in Malfeas is going on).

Once the captives are at least momentarily subdued, and their equipment stored or distributed, both Celestials and non-Exalts start to gather in the deeper caves beyond the settlement. Tycho has staged many a mock battle for his 'soldiers' in this very area, as it is far removed from the outskirts of the sensor-blind area. Now it is being used for yet another meeting, which hopefully will be a short one.

---

OOC: ok, using this thread for Nanaret to do her report, and Talia to actually... not be ignored, hopefully. :)

Third, in between the times it spends with the captives, sits with the others to discuss things with Nanaret, and taking a moment to greet Talia. 'Apologies for ignoring you earlier. Third is Third Beneficiary of Ordered Knowledge. It is good to meet you. Thank you for your aid against the Earth Immaculate.' it says, bowing it's head politely.
This message was last edited by the player at 03:16, Fri 27 Mar 2009.

"I wasn't that much help.  I guess I'm not quite as good as I thought I was.  I'm Talia.  Talia Zerith."

"Sorry, Talia, I was distracted too. I just run back from one of the other settlements in the area, then I see Immaculate monks near our camp." Nanaret explains, perching on a raised plane of rock that happens to be the perfect height for sitting. "Was very... stressful."

She isn't quite sure where to start with Talia, so settles with the basics. "So you escaped in Earth District? The rest of us, we come from Water District, before it was closed off by the Purge. More than two week ago, we tried stop extermination of entire Water District. Some Terrestrials set up the Purge just to get rid of free Celestials... so they say. We managed escape by befriending the Gatekeeper of Water, who brought us here."

"And here..." Nanaret gestures around her to indicate the cavern, "is safe as we can get. As long as we do not attract attention the sentries will not find us here. So we try lay low, train and craft equipment, look for information and for allies in Earth District. Trying to plan more, so maybe things be less chaotic this time... not like Water District. At least we try." The Lunar shrugs and falls silent a bit, waiting to see if anyone else would come by, or if Talia had anything to say.

"Please do not blame yourself... Your arrival came at a very... volatile time, that is all. But you should not feel sorry for it. It is us who should apologize for not being able to extend a better welcome." The brown-haired man bows, smiling in Talia's direction. "I am Doctor Yaishin Higura, but you can call me Higura like everyone else here."

"I am not certain what your plans are now that you are free, but as I stated earlier, do feel free to stay with us as long as you want."
This message was last edited by the player at 17:50, Fri 27 Mar 2009.

"I am Alus Tycho, recently of the Peace Force. If you're from this district, you could be useful," says Tycho from where he stands near by, positioned opposite of Third and Higura. He is watchful of the new comer, but not inherently distrusting. Her story was likely the same as their own. It could not have been coincidence, her finding them here. "Nanaret and some others have been scouting the area, but we still know that much about this district beyond our immediate surroundings."

"Speaking of which..." he looks at Nanaret questioningly.

A quiet yawn is heard from off to the side at this point, as Danae wanders into the room, having been awoken somewhat in the ensuing confusion, and looking remarkably dazed despite herself. "Morning..."  She begins, not quite noticing most of the 'Newcomers' offhand--though the small package she had in one hand did imply she wasn't entirely out of the loop just yet.

Tossing said package over to Saina a little absently, she said.  "Yours is finished...  Sorry I couldn't get it wrapped up before you left, but it couldn't really be helped...  In any case, I didn't have a whole lot to work with, but I tried to focus it in the connecting chains--you can probably double it's length if you snap it, and it should be solid enough that you can use it as a makeshift polevault...  But really, it's mostly built to your specifications--if you want to name it, the title's up to you."

She blinked absently a few times, then yawned again.  "Anyone have something to drink today?"

Third nods towards Danae. "We have acquired more resources for your efforts." It stands up, and approaches her, asking quietly. "If you are able... Third wishes to learn some arts of crafting from you. Third has been... thinking about the past a great deal. It would also give you more time to work on projects other than simply crafting." it says pleasantly, bowing its head to her. "And allow Third to find you something." it says, moving to the temporary commissary they've set up, taking some of the water, bringing it to her in one of the tin cups used throughout the settlement. "Meet Talia." it says pleasantly, nodding its head to the new Solar as it returns quietly to its seat.

"They brought to the Earth District to pick up materials when my collar came off, but I'm not really from here.  I've mostly jus been lying low since then.  So that was you people in the Water District?  I heard rumors."
Talia nods at Danae.
"This may sound like a odd question, but what exactly is all of this?" she asks, her gesture encompassing not just her immediate surroundings but the entire operation.

"Nice to meet you Talia" Danae adds, a little absently.  "Oh...  Well, magitech's a bit of a pain to work with--it pretty much requires a basis in forgecraft and fine detailing, an overall solid grounding in mechanical constructing--and then it takes a good long while from there to figure out how it all locks together in a functional manner.  It's difficult stuff."  She took a drink from the cup, and took a bit to think.  "Of course, you can also do a lot of interesting things with it if you're good..  I'm not really a master myself, but I'm close--I can probably give you a rundown when I've got a little free time..."

She then blinks a few times, and focuses on Talia, after she began addressing her--as the gears in her head finally started to grind properly.

"Wait...  New person?  Ah...  Nice to meet you...  This place though?  It's an abandoned mining settlement we decided to set down roots in...  The rest?  We're still not sure of the details yet--we've only been out on our own for about two weeks so far--going on the third though"

Nanaret catches the 'package', looking almost surprised at first, then noticeably grateful. She examines the quality with interest, running her fingers across the different textures of material: honey resin grips, steel striking surfaces, moonsilver links.

Stepping down from her perch, Nanaret moves through a basic Snake kata while the others exchange words, to get a feel for the serpent staff's size and flexibility. She'd need a partner, and more time, to really test it out... Unfortunately, time is not something the Lunar has at a premium right now. "Thank you," she says to Danae, finally, when she returns to a relaxed stance. "Thank you very much, Danae Adela. Considering what little we have, it is excellent construction, and am honored I can wield it. One day I hope I repay your efforts." The words feel inadequate for the gift, but the promised favor is genuine.

"I think is better the magical material is not prominent in the construction. Means may be easier to hide what it is. A shame, though, I cannot bring with me yet. Allow my explaining..." She nods to Tycho, too, acknowledging the silent question there, though she may not have an answer that is to his liking. After all, she has concentrated most of her effort playing a role within the Conclave, so far. "Dashu and Xurizu and I are under cover identity in the B25 Laborer's Conclave. Xurizu is a clerk named Jenci. I am Bryn and Dashu is Freidr, sister and brother miners. I have had few days to settle into the role, though it is a throwaway identity, so cannot maintain it forever."

"While doing this we have discovered a few things. Working as miners puts us close to movement of resources. The ores, they move by rail or conveyor belt, then freight elevator to above floors.[Private to GM; Peleps Dashu: I read this when Dashu was doing his initial scouting, I figured Nanaret would see some of that too. Hope it's not too presumptuous.] Most guards in the area between here and Conclave are machine sentries. However, there are some human patrols -- Peace Force. The Immaculates, they are expending most effort in capturing 'Free'. Seems Water District events maybe inspired Free's gang to start terrorist action."

"Before I left I searched out crime elements in the Conclave. There is a smuggler who operates the area. He is called Mockingbird and has done jobs for Free, it is said. Dashu and Xurizu trying to meet him now. I offered to return to report, and to warn you. The Conclave is checking everyone who comes in and out. They have guards at checkpoints, dressed like civilians, but Dashu say they are Peace Officers."

(OOC: sorry if it's a lot at once, but thought I'd try and get all the basic info out right away so people could ask questions.)
This message was last edited by the player at 00:56, Sat 28 Mar 2009.

Meanwhile Dena sticks to a dark corner and avoids attention, as best somebody with her startling appearance can.  She's stayed generally quiet since the battle, refusing any aid for her wounds and generally staying fairly focussed on some inner turmoil rather than the rest of the world.  She watches Danae fairly intently but is moved startled to some action by Saina's words.
"Have you found out what happened in the Water District?" she asks quickly, drawing a meaningless doodle in the ground with one finger as she thinks.

Third nods. "Third has some basis in delicate craftings, and as a Twilight, learning should come relatively easy to it. With luck, soon Third will be able to aid you." It bows pleasantly.

Third considers. "What are we able to do to help you? Third is unable to offer any direct assistance, Third is not, unfortunately, designed for stealth. But, if there is any information that would prove helpful to you in the future, Third would be willing to scan it's memory for it." it says, bowing its head to Nanaret in thanks for the dangerous job she has been doing.