Technicolour Beat: Calming the Storm

[Talos Barrenfist]

Inside an ascending elevator aboard the Foerost orbital station, Sergeant Barrenfist stood in dress uniform with Lieutenant Misha Errat. If this had not been a direct order I wouldn’t had believed it. Me help prevent a fight from breaking out? This has to be a punishment detail for me or something.

Talos had done many things in his lifetime, good and bad. Settling labor disputes had never been one of them until this day. Apparently many of the shipyard workers decided to hold themselves in one of the levels in the station. They were having a spat with their boss, declaring they won’t stand down until their demands were met. Somehow command in its infinite wisdom decided to two military personal could solve without use of the force.

The worst thing for Talos was that their team was only allowed to go in with service pistols and set to stun mode. “Drekar hjálpa okkur.” The Deculian whispered to himself in the old tongue. Of course the marine was fortune to that Lieutenant Errat was leading this team not him. She can handle it while he gives support...hopefully.

@Luster

 

[Misha Errat]

Misha sighed as she straightened the hem of her dress uniform once more, watching the numbers change as the lift continued to rise. She had never been to Foerost before, and the briefing that she had read on the journey to the system had been fairly brief to say the least. The world's industrial sector had been badly hurt as the conflict had slowed to a crawl, but now the Republic was offering aid to help the economy and production of war material increase. It was mostly diplomatic with other Republic teams handing out aid to the downtrodden while still others were negotiating with the Foerost Minister of Commerce and a whole load of industry heads to get the forges fired up again.

But She and Sergeant Barrenfist were here for a different purpose entirely, to help settle a labor dispute between the shipyard director and the workers. While she had never pictured herself being picked for this kind of work it did make a funny kind of sense, she had grown up on an industrial world and spent a considerable portion of her life working the lines in those very same factories. Maybe that background would give her some leverage with the strikers.... if they were willing to look past the uniform. And while I hope to be able to talk this out, I have seen far too many strikers refuse to talk to anyone in a uniform. Depending on how their leaders react to us, this could get ugly.

She sighed once more, patting the sidearm in it's holster to make sure it was still there. And at least she had the Sergeant with her, he was a stout warrior and she knew he had her back. Casting a glance over at the NCO she heard him mutter something she couldn't quite make out. "What was that you said Sergeant?"


@Minuteman75​

 

[The Storyteller]

While the two Republic soldiers converse, their elevator door would open. Inside was the main assembly line area but it’s entrance blocked with a small barricade made up of metal tables, chairs and desks. Manning it were more than a dozen angry workers armed with makeshift clubs, vibroknives and a few blaster pistols. Once the desperate workers saw the members of the Grand Army come out of the lift, they immediately recognize the uniforms.

Shock swelled the ranks as the strikers murmured to themselves at the new arrivals’ approach. As they came closer, a heavyset Besalisk in green overalls gestured for his fellow defenders to put their weapons down...for the time being. Then the large alien called out to the newcomers. “We were expecting the director’s goons to come in but not you. This must be indeed serious if your organization is involved.”

Standing on top of the barricade with all arms cross his chest added. “I am Galven Unic, in charge of this defense line. Mind telling why you’re here?”

 

[Talos Barrenfist]

Upon Misha asking that question, Talos was briefly tongue tied. The nco suddnely realized he had spoken in his native language. “Well Lieutenant I was just chanting good luck to our mission.” That was only half truth of course but more further discussion on it were halted when the lift’s door opened.

Once he saw what awaited them the dark bearded man nearly snorted in disgust. While the barricade offered a decent enough defense, the way the strikers manned it did not impress him at all. They got spirit I’ll admit it. But spirit alone isn’t enough to maintain a position. Thinking so, Sgt. Barrenfist walked alongside with Lt. Errat toward the ‘guarded’ entrance.

When the bulky fellow introduced himself, Talos stayed professionally silent, preferring that Misha do the talking unless he was ordered to by her.

 

[Misha Errat]

Misha smiled at Talos' response and reached across the lift to place a hand on his shoulder. Giving it a light squeeze she said "We'll be all right" and smiles just a little wider. She hoped that none of her own concern was showing through. They needed to be calm and clear headed, especially walking into a room full of spirits knew how many angry, and possibly scared workers.

She let her arm fall and her face set into a mask of neutrality as the doors opened. Deciding to show utmost confidence instead of hesitance she stepped through the door as soon as it opened, hoping that there was not going to be any immediate problem. And that if there she trusted Talos would have her back. Seeing the armed workers behind the barricade reminded her of footage she had seen of a strike breakup as a child. It was a crude and hasty defensive line, but they could be nasty to take down by force. Thats why she was glad when the Besalisk prompted his fellows to show restraint, and it was always good to be dealing with someone who had an even head.

She straightened to parade rest as Galven made his short speech and introduction, hoping to give off the best impression of military discipline as she could. Deciding on utmost honesty she cleared her throat and spoke so that everyone at the barricade would be able to hear. "I am Lieutenant Errat, and this is Sergeant Barrenfist of the Grand Army of the Republic. The Senate has sent many teams to help Foerost get back on it's feet and producing again. That being said the Republic has a vested interest in getting these shipyards up and running as soon as possible and have sent us to to get things moving. I would much prefer to come to a settlement." She finished, leaving off the other option for the workers to fill in for themselves.

 

[The Storyteller]

The workers began whispering excitedly to each other again upon hearing the lieutenant’s respond. With a upper right hand Galven rubbed his massive chin in deep thought. Glancing toward to the soldiers again Galven remarked. “I can see why you would be interested. Yet pray tell how would this ‘settlement’ benefit us?”

Pointing his other hands to the strikers beside he went on. “Our wages have been lower twice now. It’s not enough to support our families back on Foerost. Not to mention many a worker in this hard has been injured due to unstable conditions which the director continues to ignore. So please miss explain to us how exactly your offer can help with this situation?”

 

[Talos Barrenfist]

With a more through examination Talos can tell how tired these people were yet they remained here all the same. Eyes were darkened from lack of sleep along their clothes being drenched in both sweat and filth. Many of them wore expression of suspicion or outright fear centered on their small party. They sorta reminded Talos of the thralls that his clan had worked generations for them. Of course the biggest difference between them were that thralls are basically slaves where else the strikers were not.

If any thrall had ever tried something like this a Decalian worth his or her pride would retaliate with violence not negotiation. At least that’s how it was done in Clan Barrenfist. The Republic was vastly different in comparison. They condemn slavery and preached about using reason instead of force most of the time. A very confusing society for someone like Talos.

Regardless the sergeant hoped Misha a satisfactory answer to the big alien’s question.

 

[Misha Errat]

The corner of Misha's lips quirked up just a little as the workers began to murmur amongst themselves. It would appear that her introduction had gone over well enough, at least well enough to get her foot in the door so to speak. While the cynics and hardliners would be much more difficult to please this would at least buy her and Talos a little respect and kindness from most of the workers. That may make negotiations easier, and also had the benefit of potentially making it a little less likely that things will devolve into a shouting match. Or worse, a brawl.

Then her crooked smile died as Galven tersely explained the conditions that he and the other strikers were hoping to improve. Her initial reaction was to reassure them that she would do her best, and her mind was already racing to think of a few possible solutions and fixes. Well if the shipyards are going to be producing for the Republic then the standard Republic safety standard would have to be... Then she stopped herself and forced a calming breath out her nose. Misha, you want to help these people, which is great, but you primary goal is to get this settled quickly and effectively. That being said there is one thing to clear up first.

"I see why you are willing to fight for improvement, and I want to help." She said, relaxing her posture out of parade rest. "But first Galven, I need to know, do you speak for everyone here?" She raised her voice just a little so as to be heard clearly. "When I was a little girl on Balmorra, my Da was behind a barricade much like this one. The company sent a negotiator who met with the strike leaders, and they came to a settlement. Problem was that apparently one of the leaders was left out of the negotiation. She spoke for a lot of people, who quickly became very upset and caused a a riot that required all of the Sobrik Police force to quell. My Da came home with three broken ribs. I don't want that to happen to anyone here. So do you speak for everyone here?"

 

[The Storyteller]

Galven paused, hit by the story that the lady officer gave. Even so he hesitated, obviously reluctant to place his full trust to the strangers yet. Half a minute passed before the Besalisk finally sighed in resignation.“That’s a valid point. We’ve let ya through and see the leaders.”

Then without more delay the portly man gestured the others to let military personal through. As they climbed the barricade, Galven pointed behind him with the left index at the office section above them, connected to a set of stairs.“You’ll find them there.” He said in a tone mixed with much worry and a slight trace of hope.

 

[Talos Barrenfist]

Who would’ve thought the LT here could relate to these people? Very fortunate indeed. Talos thought with surprise. Leaving the barricade their small group was escorted by one protester, a haggard looking Zabark female no more than a seventeen years old and armed with a metal pipe in the right hand.

During the walk they were lead past the assembly line surrounded by the now quiet machinery. Dozens of workers on strike lounged around, many taking note of their new ‘guests.’ Once they were marching up the stairs Talos whispered to Misha. “Not bad ma’am. Not bad at all.”

Barrenfist wasn’t one to easily complimented others unless they truly merited his praise. The horn headed youth with clipped auburn hair stopped at the door and opened, waving for them to come on in. “They’re already expecting you.” Was she said once they both entered the office.

 

[Misha Errat]

Misha nodded once in response to the Besalisk and let her posture relax just a little, though internally he gut tightened a little more. Ok, step one done. No hitch yet. But now we are going into the, almost literal, enemy camp. If things go south during these talks the we will have to fight our way out. time for best behavior and paranoia.

Lowering her voice so that only their group could hear, she murmured "Eyes out, keep it professional."

It took a moment for a path to be cleared for them, and once they stepped through their escort made herself know. Misha made sure to smile at her as pleasantly as she could and said "Thank you" to both her and Galven. As they crossed the floor Misha made sure to take in as much of it as possible, taking note of the machinery, ventilation, safety equipment, and the general condition of everything she could. If she could spot some of the problems and bring them up in the negotiation it may buy their team a little more weight, at least that was the hope anyway.

When Talos spoke up she turned her head to smile at him. "Thank you, Talos. I honestly never thought I'd be this side of a picket line. And feel free to speak up if you think I miss anything in there." And then her face settled back into a neutral mask and she turned back around. When the Zabrak opened the door she made a note to thank her before stepping into the office, hoping that a million and one things went perfectly.

Once more unto the breach.

 

[The Storyteller]

The interior was a typical bureaucratic lair with gray color. Four metal filing cabinets were stacked up on the wall at the right-hand side. On the left was a clear glass window overlooking the whole level. An air vent below the ceiling that once blew cool air was clearly shut off by the management because of the strike. At the center were five individuals in various working outfits, three humans (one man, and two women, and two aliens (a Wookiee male, and a female Sullustian).

The group were sitting together at the front of a midsize square table. They were eyeing up Misha and Talos with through examination and with stoic expression that neither displayed welcome nor scorn. A baldish human male with a dark complexion in Orange engineer suit stood up and declared

“We are the Foerost council of united shipyard workers, representing all of their interests.” He then pointed to the two empty chairs facing the soldiers. “Galven let us know you were coming so please take your seats, we have to much to discuss.” Once the GAR members complied the speaker then asked. “What is the exactly settlement you offer for our people?”

 

[Talos Barrenfist]

What’s a picket line? Must be something to do with workers. Shrugging off that silent question, Talos entered the office with Misha. Straight away he saw they were dealing with a dedicated group, judging by their body language. Having been chiefly raised as a nomadic warrior Segreant Barrenfist found it hard to comprehend them all. Not to mention they have a mouthful of a name for their group.

Nevertheless, he knew they need these people’s full cooperation to conclude this mission successfully. Taking a chair on the right side next to Misha, Talos nodded to her, allowing the lieutenant to know he still had her back if she required him to do something. Not exactly a talker for this sort of thing but I’ll do what I can. Crossing his arms over the chest, the marine waited to see how this next round will start.

 

[Misha Errat]

Misha took in the group quickly, noting their stoic and neutral expressions with mixed feelings and really hoping thaat she could keep the Wookiee calm. They are stern and acting in a very professional manner thus far, and well organized to boot. I can see why the director of the shipyards was having such difficulty with them, they are dug in and probably just as stubborn as Mum and Da were. She steeled herself for a long and grueling talk.

She nodded to the council and sat in the left of the offered pair of chairs, exchanging one more meaningful glance with Talos before she cleared her throat and began.

"As you might have heard I am Lieutenant Misha Errat, and this is Sergeant Talos Barrenfist. It is a pleasure to meet with this council face to face instead of screaming over the barricade at each other." She smiled a little to let the council know that she had intended it as a joke, and she prayed to the spirits that it went over well. "I was told earlier that your primary concerns were about wages, that have been lowed twice, and poor safety standards and condition of the equipment. On our way up here I noticed a few issues myself, including poor ventilation, and corrosion on a lot of the piping. I agree that these are unsatisfactory conditions, but I need not remind you that these yards have been in disuse for quite some time now and that is probably why standards have fallen so far. But the Republic is currently in talks to get these yards back open and producing warships quickly, which means the Republic will have a vested interest in the quality of the product as well as the lives of those working on it. That means a return to Republic safety standards, which I will note to my commanders requires an overhaul of these facilities and an inspection by a Republic Public Safety crew. As for wages I assume the cuts have occurred due to a lack or orders processed by the yards. In that case the immediate increase of Republic orders will mean more money flowing through Foerost, and thus into your hands."

 

[The Storyteller]

Some of the council appreciated Misha’s attention to detail in regarding to conditions, nodding with approval. Others less so much especially the Wookiee scowl with bitterness. When the lieutenant presented the offer, immediately the walking carpet roared in anger. One of the human leaders, a middle aged woman with blue thin hair remarked with an accusing finger at the newcomers.

“Ufruas is right why should we trust this offer of yours? That bastard director will likely keep most of the credits for himself instead of us. As soon we will stand down and you’re out of sight he will set his goons on us.”

Before it can get worse, the chief speaker interrupted. “Dana let me handle this.” Rolling her eyes, Dana sat back with her Wookiee comrade who shared her sentiment. Pinching the bridge of his nose, the speaker continued, turning toward the soldiers.

“Despite her rudeness my colleague still does have a point Lieutenant. Not to mention it was the Republic in the first place that cause this downturn. What’s stopping the senate in the fire from changing its mind after they get over the Hutt frezny going on?”

 

[Talos Barrenfist]

It sounded a generous offer to Talos so he was taken off guard when the Wookiee erupted with verbal fury. The marine had to resist the urge to pull his pistol out. One of the strike leaders, Dana proceeded to insulate their team was setting them up. Sergeant Barrenfist’s temper began to flare. To accuse a Decalian of treachery is a grave insult that usually answered with a fist but the orange suit fellow stepped in before things got out of hand.

As he listened, Talos’ silent rage left him. In this case he understands their concern about the senate. It wasn’t known for the wisest actions in previous years military-wise. It was in this moment that the former raider spoke up.

“You posses every right to be frustrated. However, you’re not the only ones who suffer from that neglect. Until recently our military force was given only limited scraps for funding or pay and yet they expect us to shield them when shit starts to rain.”

Commanding their attention for however long or short it will be he went on.

“You can either take the settlement to make the best of it for yourselves and kin. Or you all can keep this strike up until it gets bloody. I don’t know about much factory work but I do have plenty of experience with combat. Guess who will win in the end...no one.

Neither you nor the shipyard owners will come out this as true victors. The Republic will in turn rely more on others to fuel the war machine, leaving this world further behind and your families will suffer even more so than before. Do you really want that to happen?”

 

[Misha Errat]

Misha stiffened at the Wookiee's outburst, having to stop herself from either flinching or instinctively going for her gun and assuming a combat stance. Either response would have resulted in the worst possible outcome for everyone involved, especially the two soldiers surrounded by dozens of potential enemies. But things remained civil, well non-aggressive at least, as the one named Dana leveled accusations on them. The first man managed to keep the council under control, and while she seemed reluctant to Dana and the Wookiee calmed slightly. As much as i need to convince everyone here, He is the key. We get him on board and the rest may follow his lead.

She was preparing to respond to their questions when Talos spoke up. His words were full of passion and truth, but she couldn't decide weather to approve of his bluntness or wince. That kind of approach may do much to endear them to the strikers, she was grateful that no other GAR officers were around to hear it. She looked at him and gave a firm nod of approval. Once he had finished she jumped in, not giving the leaders a chance to respond just yet.

"The sergeant is right in many respects. Our business is war too, and we can't always be at war. If you want to get angry at someone for the condition of Foerost I would suggest looking to your own minister of commerce, not the senators that brought the Republic peace. Because the biggest point he brings up is that no one wins in a fight. Look at this situation as a microcosm, if we do not come to an agreement then you will be removed by force. You lose your jobs, and what pay you do have. Foerost loses its best yard workers. And the Republic loses those workers too, as well as one of the quickest producers of starships. Those contracts can go to other system, but Foerost can get it done quicker and better." She hoped that the stark reality and appeal to their pride as craftsmen would be enough to keep this from escalating.

She took a deep breath and the continued.

"As for the director sending goons down here to teach you a lesson, that won't happen. As I said the Republic needs the best workers putting out the best quality ships. If I can get a guarantee that everyone already signed on to these yards will have gainful employment for the entire length of the contract, on top of the Republic mandated safety inspections, would you guys be willing to get this place moving again?"

 

[The Storyteller]

Some of the council including the chief speaker sniggered at Barrenfist’s reference about the senate. When the topic shifted over the likely outcome they became more sober. It was especially reinforced when Misha stepped back into the conversation, causing the Council to look at around one another with concern. They had protested for better conditions not to lose everything. Even the mighty Wookiee Ufruas was humbled by what was said.

Sighing in acceptance Dana then commented. “I don’t know you all but no frakking droids is going to replace me anytime. The director can’t get rid of us that easily.” Ufruas seconded the statement with a milder growl. All the others join in unison, thinking of their families back home and their pride as craftsmen.

Seeing that the council was in full agreement, their chief speaker rose up from his chair then declared. “Then in name of the United Shipyard Wokrers of Foerost, we accept your settlement.” Soon enough many at the table began breath again after the tension and relax. The speaker with a smile walked over to the Republic duo, offering his right hand to shake and as they did he said.

“Lieutenant and segreant you both have my thanks. I should’ve done this earlier nonethless my name is Thom Harden and I wish you both good luck. Rest assure we and our comrades will be very busy for a long time to come.”

 

[Talos Barrenfist]

Well that turned better than expected. Not that Talos was complaining. The spaceborn wasn’t one to back down from a fight but he was pleased it won’t be against this bunch, they weren’t his true enemies. Standing up Talos grasped Harden’s hand offered to him replying in Decalian. “Örlög fyrir þig og ætt þína.” Knowing the worker won’t understand, he translated.

“In my mother tongue it’s a blessing that means fortune to you and your kin.” As the military team began to exit from the office they can hear Thom Harden calling the workers in the level to inform them to stand and explain why. Walking down the stairs, Sgt. Barrenfist remembered he had been very blunt back there in front of Misha who was an officer. “Ma’am I understand you will have to put me on report for some of those statements back there. I’ll accept the penalty for it.”

 

[Misha Errat]

Misha smiled at little at Dara's sentiments about being replaced. She had not specifically been thinking they would potentially be replaced by a droid workforce, but it did make a certain amount of sense. And to make things just that much closer to home, Dara's words could have been spoken by Misha's own mum if she had lived long enough to match Dara's own age. She didn't have a lot of time to dwell on that thought as the council's main speaker started up again.

They had accepted. That was.... well that was absolutely wonderful. She really did not have to words to express her relief and gratitude that it hadn't come down to stun blasts and cracking skulls. And if she and Talos could manage to make these people's lives just a little easier then all the better. She beamed, the biggest smile that had been on her face in a long while. Standing up she waited for Talos to offer his own blessing before she stuck out her hand. "Thom, I am sorry we had to meet like this, but I am glad we did. Good luck to you and yours. And please, build the best damn ships you can."

With that she patted the man on the shoulder and turned to leave. The crowd of workers that had gathered seemed to receive the news with mixed reactions, but the majority seemed to be happy that at least a little movement had been made. And honestly Misha was right there with them. It wasn't the best outcome the workers had been hoping for, but it was far from the worst. And maybe, just maybe, Mum and Da could be proud of her. She was pulled from her thoughts when Talos spoke up once more, apologizing for is outburst. She looked back at him, asking "What statements, Sergeant?" And winked.


/End Thread