Chance of a Lifetime

A weary but stubborn factory owner trying to stave off closure in postwar austerity. He prides himself on long hours and hard work, yet his authority is challenged as workers demand a say in running the business. In a pivotal moment he dares the workforce to take over, while negotiating a high-stakes deal that preserves his control.

The hard-edged works manager whose bullying style provokes resentment and pushes labor tensions to a boil. He polices attendance and performance with threats, contributing to the workers’ decision to strike. His dismissal during the crisis marks a turning point in management’s authority.

A pragmatic worker who steps into leadership when the workers elect him and Morris to run the business. He focuses on securing resources, coordinating with others, and sustaining production without buckling under pressure. His steady approach helps bridge Dickinson’s control with worker-driven governance.

A practical, principled worker who chooses collaboration over rigid loyalty to the old order. He resists abandoning long-time customers while supporting the shift toward worker ownership. His stance anchors a balance between tradition and reform.

A fiery worker who challenges pay and the speed of change, fueling the initial objections to the new pay scale. He embodies the friction between reform and fairness, pressing for representation in the transition. His objections drive negotiations that test the new order.

Dickinson’s secretary and a steady mediator in the upheaval. She keeps communication flowing between management and workers, while offering practical advice and calm in moments of crisis. Her loyalty and tact help navigate the delicate transition.

An ambitious factor who pushes to focus resources on the Xenobian order, prioritizing rapid growth over diversified contracting. His aggressive stance highlights the tension between scale and reliability, and he becomes a catalyst for leadership shifts.

A cautious but resourceful worker who uses his life-insurance policy as collateral to raise capital. He embodies solidarity and pragmatic risk-taking, helping to avert immediate collapse. His willingness to stake personal security demonstrates the collective commitment of the workforce.