The classroom was equipped with its standard array of desks, chairs and glassware. Mohinder was at the front of the room, going over paperwork as class assembled ( Read more... )

"I'm sure you already know we're nearing the end of the semester," Mohinder started, brushing away a last few pieces of tinsel. "Today, we're looking at pedology, or soil science. As well as hopefully avoiding jokes about the topic being as clear as mud ( Read more... )

The interior of the DangerShop was stark and white with an airlock door to the far side. An array of lightweight, plastic, booted and gloved suits and helmets hung to one side. Beside the airlock door, Mohinder stood, tapping his fingers against the helmet at his side ( Read more... )

The classroom door opened up to a dusty plain abutted by a cliff. Shades of shifted strata rose up and up ( Read more... )

"Minerals," said Mohinder, from behind a selection of rocks. "A structured, inorganic compound, like so much else, often cannot be identified on sight alone. Quartz," he said, holding up a pink rock ( Read more... )

"When looking at a country," said Mohinder, from the front of the classroom. "A frequent indicator is their development. How advanced - whether economically, culturally or technologically. It can be something as straightforwardly derived as income, or less easily defined - the standard or quality of life of those living there ( Read more... )

"Hard hats, everyone, please," said Mohinder, handing out the light-bearing safety hats when class had gathered on the side of the Danger Shop created hillside ( Read more... )

"Location, location, location," said Mohinder, once the class had assembled. "Not that I plan to make you listen to three identical lectures, but it's important despite that ( Read more... )

It was a heavy-jacketed and bundled up Mohinder that was pacing about the hillside clearing that the Danger Shop door opened up onto ( Read more... )

A map was hanging on the classroom wall behind Mohinder. "Congratulations," he started. "You're all lucky enough not to be living on a plate margin, and consequently are much less likely to be caught in an earthquake ( Read more... )