Some Technos realize that, although Gateway has become rich and prosperous through the "Victory" project, the Caroline homeland is still as miserable as its neighbors. Before they can act on this knowledge the People revolt, led by a man named Coral who claims truthfully that the Technos have lied and do not intend to complete the "Victory". Most of the Technos are killed although one is allowed to bring the news to the Dresau Islands in the eastern sea. The Dresau Navy has a proud tradition as the last surviving remnant of vital humanity and its leader believes the "Victory" project has a sinister purpose, possibly directed by heirs of the dark power Salasar, which once ruled most of the earth.