Oasis of Tradition

The Hidden Humanity Purist Commune

  Location: Nestled in the dense forests of Voracia, away from the urban sprawl, the Oasis of Tradition is a secluded, exclusively Humanity Purist commune. The area is chosen specifically for its natural barriers—mountains on one side and a meandering river on the other, which offers a strategic advantage against unwelcome intrusions.   Lifestyle: Members of the Oasis lead a simple, agrarian lifestyle. They till the land, plant crops, and rear livestock, following traditional methods of farming that don't rely on advanced technology or overly genetically modified organisms. The commune emphasizes self-sustainability.   Housing: The dwellings are made of natural materials sourced from the surroundings, such as wood, clay, and stone. There's a central gathering space, reminiscent of the town squares of old, where community decisions are made and celebrations held.   Education: While they might shun contemporary technology, education is valued. Elders pass down knowledge orally, teaching youngsters about Old Earth, its traditions, and skills like reading, writing, herbal medicine, and craftwork. They maintain a library of physical books, a treasured collection from Old Earth, which is considered one of their most prized possessions.   Cultural Practices: The commune celebrates festivals that are reminiscent of Old Earth's cultural practices, often combining traditions from multiple cultures. Music, dance, and storytelling are essential parts of these celebrations, and they serve to remind them of their roots and the world they left behind.   Governance: The Oasis operates on a council system, where a group of elders makes decisions after deliberations and taking inputs from the community members. Everyone has a voice, and major decisions require consensus.   Economy: While largely self-sufficient, the commune does trade with neighboring settlements, offering organic produce, crafted goods, and herbal medicines. They avoid dealing with Voracian cities to maintain their distance from The Benefactors' influence.   Security: Given their stance against The Benefactors and the technological world, they have a trained group responsible for the security of the commune. They largely use traditional weapons and traps, combined with their knowledge of the land, to protect their way of life. They have, however, attained a stash of firearms to use in emergencies.   Spirituality: While the Human Purists don't follow a specific religion, they have a deep reverence for nature, often holding ceremonies at the change of seasons, and considering the Earth and its elements sacred.   Relationship with Technology: Anything that's a remnant of advanced technology, especially anything that might be a conduit for The Benefactors, is strictly forbidden. However, simple tools, reminiscent of what might have been used in the early 20th century on Old Earth, are commonplace.   Challenges: Living off the grid and away from advanced medical facilities and other amenities means the commune members sometimes face challenges, especially during natural calamities or disease outbreaks. Their resilience and community spirit often see them through, but the outside world's allure can sometimes tempt the younger generation, leading to internal conflicts and discussions about their way of life's future sustainability.