Chapter 6: Loose Ends
On the 28th of the 7th moon, the caravan returned to Rhakosis through the northern gate. Taking some time to regain their bearings in town, the crew learned from their innkeep Ziyad Ziya that Nanako had left Rhakosis not long ago, after turning up nothing but dead ends in her investigations. None of their other contacts seemed to have discovered anything new of the Mon or Mahfuz.
Akash informed the crew of his decision to remain in Rhakosis, feeling the need to tend to the recent troubles with his mine and business. After Kasumi was released from his contract with Akash, he approached the Captain to express his wish to continue on with the crew of Viz Leany, if she would have him. Sitara was willing to keep him on, though with the caveat that he would never again involve the crew in Brotherhood matters, to which Kasumi agreed.
Since Mahfuz was presumed dead, the landlord Khorsheed gave the crew first claim on items of the sage’s estate as a gesture of good will and recompense for their missing property. Using Alim’s mirror and monocle, they spent the day examining the sage’s collection of objets d’art and odd curios, as well as his impressive library. They noted several items of interest, though none matching the power or value of the lost Mon.
Kasumi managed to locate a stash of coins of various currencies, but was disappointed to find that the texts on religious and mythological topics he was most interested in were likely stolen with the Mon. Mesi found a Minzokan oni mask which presented a benevolent face when turned upside down, as well as a statuette depicting the Ta Atouan god, and books on Minzokan families and fairy tales. Sitara discovered texts of sailors’ tales, ships’ logs, and map folios, as well as books on engraving and poetry. She also rescued an Oami dreamcatcher lying unused on a shelf, and was struck by a strange half-mask of a woman’s face whose hair hung over the empty side. Khorsheed was quite amenable to their selections, and somewhat surprised they had left him with appraisals of his former tenant’s inventory and had given over the sage’s hidden funds.
...*...
A few days after their return to Rhakosis, Mesi ventured back to the Swaying Serpent to inquire about Serrai with the bartender. He implied that Mesi might have better luck if she returned around lunch time tomorrow. The next day, Mesi returned to a slightly more crowded tavern, and placed an order before taking a seat. When the barkeep brought her drink, he discretely relayed that Serrai would be available later that afternoon at the same place they had met before.
Mesi continued eating quietly until a server approached her with a burning question. The young man inquired if she was the Ta’Atouan warrior whom Serrai had stood against in a test of blades during the Festival of High Sun. When Mesi confirmed his suspicions, he could not seem to contain his excitement as he became rather loud and animated. His outburst quickly drew the attention of the other patrons, but before he could follow up with more questions, the bartender shouted, “Farouk!”. He apologized and hurried back to the bar, leaving Mesi uncomfortably avoiding the gaze of the entire tavern, including three rough-looking men in the corner who were now eyeing her with both interest and perhaps respect. When Mesi finished her meal, she swiftly left and headed for the southern gate.
Returning to the same secluded clearing as before, Mesi expressed her interest in learning the particular sword art Serrai practiced. With a look from her Minzokan companion, the swordswoman indicated she was no master herself and it was not her place to teach it, and Mesi resigned herself to a sparring match, though she was still recovering from her experience in the mine.
They shared their respective outlooks on martial discipline and battle, as well as their intentions in the Festival competition. Serrai indicated she had sought the attention and favor of the Jinn: victory was only the means to the point. Mesi had acted upon her appreciation for the Ash-Sh’b culture, affirmed she had also sought to give her dues to the Jinn, and expounded upon how her understanding of the divine had developed over the course of her travels. She emphasized the need to respect the gods and spirits, citing what she had learned of Akash’s relationship with the Temple priests and his involvement with the Brotherhood as an example of inviting divine wrath.
With regards to the Brotherhood, Serrai seemed satisfied to learn that Akash had apparently wanted to recruit her to his faction before someone else did, though she clearly did not deign to join their ranks, only sub-contract, so to speak. When Serrai inquired after her future plans, Mesi revealed her plans to visit the Free Isles and make contact with expatriates there to garner allies...and perhaps eventually conquer the Unconquered City. Intrigued by Mesi’s new ambitions, Serrai also agreed to a contract to keep an eye and an ear out for the crew’s missing Minzokan artifact or Mahfuz until Viz Leany next made port in Rhakosis.
...*...
As soon as the party returned to the City of Sails, Kasumi set to work in pursuing his miniscule clue from the saboteurs' camp. He first tried to match the fragment of the symbol to crests of government buildings and local companies, followed by symbols and figures, but nothing quite matched. Kasumi asked many a poor soul if the fragment looked familiar, and while some thought they had seen something similar, no one could place it.
Feeling desperate, Kasumi finally decided he must go to the one place that he really didn't want to, the Temple. Not only had he and Akash disrespected the priesthood by keeping the Mon, but they had then lost it. Kasumi thought it unlikely the priests would be able to help him, even if they felt so inclined. However, Kasumi felt obligated to go ask forgiveness for his actions, and forced himself to make this pilgrimage. Bringing the monkey statue and goblet he had won from competitions during the Festival of High Sun, Kasumi made his way to the Temple.
Nervous of his surroundings, Kasumi made his way up the steps and under the elaborate entrance archway. Gingerly setting his prizes down as offerings at the altar, Kasumi took a moment to ask the Jinn for forgiveness, and sent out a silent cry for help. He needed to find these attackers, he needed to ensure that justice would be had.
After his prayer, he arose and found the nearest priest to ask for guidance. After apologizing for his previous disrespect, Kasumi asked for aid in his quest of retribution. The priest, feeling he would need someone with more experience, excused himself momentarily. Kasumi’s stomach dropped as he soon returned with the very man that Kasumi and Akash had refused to give over the Mon to.
Upon recognizing Kasumi, the priest was initially annoyed, until Kasumi explained the situation and begged his forgiveness. The priests agreed to see what they could do to help Kasumi, but as expected, neither recognized the fragment. Failing to provide a solution, the priest offered to pray to the Jinn to assist Kasumi in his journey.
Before Kasumi made to leave the priest suggested once more that he should really turn over the Mon, to which the accountant sheepishly admitted that it had been stolen.The priest was not impressed. Kasumi could do little more than swear that he would attempt to find the Mon in his travels, promising to do the right thing and bring the Mon back to the Temple.
...*...
Mesi began to anxiously ponder her last meeting with the Ta Atouan revolutionaries at their warehouse. She wondered about the mysterious individual whom Raptis appeared to be consulting with behind the crates, until her constant dwelling finally drove her to seek answers before setting sail.
Mesi shared with the Captain her desire to travel to the Free Isle where many Ta Atouan refugees and expatriates lived, as well as her intention to meet with Raptis again. Sitara and Kasumi accompanied Mesi to the shrine where they’d met before, and waited until Illiana showed up. Hesitant to start with her inquiry about the person behind the crates, Mesi opened with offering to pass along any messages since they would be sailing to the Free Isles soon. Taken aback by the gesture, Illiana replied that she would need to consult with Raptis for more details.
Deciding to test the waters further, Mesi asked her who it was the expatriates were protecting in the warehouse. While her response was evasive, Illiana told them to expect Raptis to be in touch with them shortly.
...*...
Sitara conducted some legwork to learn more about Nyasia’s son, the grandson of Amir-al-bahr Aden bin Tarik Musa, discoverer of the New World and the late Master of Seas. Ruh bin Faris Musa was a farmer like his father; it seemed the legacy of his mother’s family did not weigh heavily upon him, and he had a reputation for being a very down-to-earth individual.
She also learned he employed a number of children of various ages as farm hands, which she saw for herself when she went to visit the Musa farm one morning. As she was speaking with a youth who fancied himself quite the salesman, one of the elder workers, Ammar, arrived before the young man got carried away. Sitara inquired whether the Master Farmer might know Sakina, the caretaker of orphans she had met. After brokering a deal for some grain, Sitara also left word that she wished to speak with Ruh, hoping—believing that the farmer might show the same humanity in matters of a larger scale.
After several days passed, Sitara returned to the farmstead with Jyotish. On the way, they discussed their experiences sailing, as well as their families and histories.
The mild-mannered purser explained that the shorter expeditions he had gone on previously had left him with a curiosity to see more of the world. While his wife had not initially been keen on him signing onto Viz Leany’s crew, Jyotish believed she had come around, and he did not seem to regret his decision. In spite of their more harrowing experiences, he had learned much from their journeys, which had been very profitable, and added that the signing bonus Master Alim offered was not insubstantial.
Sitara confessed she sometimes questioned her decisions and still felt somewhat unaccustomed to not being second-guessed by others. Slightly surprised, Jyotish commented that self-reflection was good and self-confidence necessary in her role as captain, assuring her the crew and their patron’s faith had been well-earned. He certainly felt as safe as one could in their profession, with his crewmates and captain having proven themselves so capable in the face of danger and combat. Sitara mused that she’d had much practice growing up, between her aunt Tsura, her father’s Master of Arms, and Stig. Jyotish observed that perhaps her family background was part of what made her such a fitting captain for Viz Leany and her diverse crew.
With Sitara remarking that it is the Oami way to welcome all travelers, regardless of their culture, and take them in if needed, Jyotish commented that Ruh seemed to be of a similar spirit. He revealed that, while not polite conversation, it was rumored that the Master Farmer’s wife was barren. Not having any heirs to pass the Musa name to, the couple had taken in numerous children, ergo the rather young workforce on the farm. Though she was very appreciative of Ruh’s benevolence, Jyotish noticed that the cultural notion that heirs need be blood seemed to strike a nerve with Sitara, who expressed a firm conviction that acceptance into a family should be sufficient for inheritance.
Ammar met them upon their arrival at the manor, and suggested Sitara enjoy the grounds while he and Jyotish ironed out the particulars of their transaction. She turned about in the drive, and, seeing something of interest in every direction she looked, decided to make a circuit and set off towards a nearby barn.
Just as Sitara discovered a very pregnant camel, a friendly voice warned that she was rather testy at the moment. One of the workers, a pleasant middle-aged man, approached and offered his assistance before recognizing her as the captain who was to pick up a shipment today. Introducing herself, Sitara explained she had taken Ammar’s advice to explore the grounds when she’d stumbled across the grumpy beast. The man introduced himself as Faris, and as she shook his hand, Sitara noted the fine quality of his work clothes. When he remarked that she looked the sort who was used to happening upon things, she cheerfully confirmed his suspicion, but noted it was foolish to turn down guidance when offered.
As Faris escorted Sitara around the fields and through the orchards, she saw many youngsters working on the harvest, often in teams. When asked if she had any children, Sitara replied that she did not, though she enjoyed their company, with Faris noting that he usually found those who could not abide children difficult to abide themselves. Having an appreciation for children’s diligence and creativity herself, Sitara was glad Ruh had the generosity to offer food and work to these youngsters, many of whom, Faris informed her, had lost their families during the Long Dark.
When Faris asked her if this was the reason she had decided to do business with Ruh, Sitara admitted she had hoped to entreat the Master Farmer’s action, but had she been aware of his practices before, she would have gladly sought his business. While Sitara could not speak to the current rumors about conscription of Ash-Sh’b sailors, she relayed how her crew had rescued a Dascean coastal village and Oami caravan from Ta Atouan enslavement.
While clearly perturbed by this news, Faris was uncertain what action a farmer could take. Sitara hoped that Ruh might speak to those that could take action to protect the vulnerable—and the Musa name still held great sway in those circles. Faris thought that perhaps it was Ruh’s mother that Sitara would speak with, though he noted that she had become reclusive as of late.
They paused as they came upon a pair of children in the orchard, one harvesting fruit and the other napping peacefully on a crook in the tree. Nearby teams of children stopped to watch as Faris approached the slumbering child. When clearing his throat did not wake the boy, Faris thwapped him with the reed he had been using as a whistle, starting the boy awake. Sending his partner to another team, Faris left the boy he’d caught snoozing to work his tree alone.
Returning to Ammar and Jyotish, the foreman noted Sitara seemed to have found a guide. Intimating that he expected they would do business again, Faris took his leave. Sitara watched him as he disappeared from sight before turning to Ammar. She thanked him for passing along her message, and asked that he also pass along her thanks to Ruh for the tour. Chuckling at her insight, Ammarwished them well as the shipment was loaded onto the wagon.
As Sitara and Jyotish climbed into the wagon to leave, a young child came running from the house clutching an envelope. Seeming to identify Sitara by her hat, he handed it to her before rushing off. She looked down to discover that, in her hand, she held a letter addressed to Nyasia binte Tarik Musa.
...*...
When the crew retired that evening to the Purple Lantern, they found the innkeep Ziyad in a particularly anxious state. Making a bee line for the crew, he informed them that they had a visitor waiting in one of the curtained booths. Mesi, Sitara, and Kasumi exchanged puzzled looks before Mesi ordered a round of drinks and headed for the booth. She slowly opened the curtain to find Raptis lounging in the booth with one leg tucked up at a rakish angle.
Feeling apprehensive, the crew took their seats across from Raptis. As tensions settled, Raptis revealed that he had three sealed letters he wanted the crew to deliver once they arrived at the Free Isle. The envelopes were addressed to three individuals: Dejen, Dalitso, and Wambui. Mesi assured him that these envelopes would reach their intended destination without any issues.
Raptis accepted her word, and went to take his leave, until Mesi leapt to her feet to interrupt him. She asked who it was he was protecting behind the crates--and if it was the man she had helped in Al Qura. Raptis reassured her that she need not worry, that whoever was behind the crates was a “matter of family”. Mesi, relaxing slightly, seemed to accept his answer and allowed Raptis to pass. Once he left the inn, the three looked to one another, now filled with more questions than before.
...*...
When the Captain, Kasumi, and Mesi approached the Musa city estate with Ruh’s letter, they were met at the gate by the house guards. Escorting the three inside the grounds, the guards brought them to a well-appointed parlor, decorated with rich and exotic items. Admiring the decor, they waited in various states of nervous restlessness until the doors opened for the lady of the house, the most famous woman in the world.
A venerable and well-dressed woman in her sixties with a long plait of grey-streaked dark hair entered the parlor and studied them curiously as she took her seat. Upon introducing themselves, Nyasia seemed to recognize either Sitara’s name, or her family’s at least. Gesturing to her companions, Sitara offered the lady their gifts and briefly explained their origins. Mesi presented her the warm stones they’d discovered in the cache in the Oamre Forest, and Kasumi gave her a mulberry perfume Sitara had made from oil from the leviathan slain in the Sea of Ice. Seemingly intrigued by the gifts, the lady spritzed the fragrance before placing one of the warm stones upon her arm. While she was curious as to how Sitara had managed to secure a letter of introduction from her son, Nyasia was mainly interested in what exactly they wished of her.
Sitara told her of the rumors circulating about increasing Ta Atouan aggression on trade routes and of their personal encounter with slavers. Understanding from Captain Hanna that the Council of Captains had yet to select a new Master of Seas, Sitara stressed the need for the Council to unite. After remarking on the Council’s apparent childishness since her father’s death, Nyasia surmised that Sitara wished her to impress upon them the need to come to terms with the situation, and Sitara inquired if there were any Captains Nyasia believed would be suitable to the office.
Asking if Sitara would put herself forth for such an august position, Nyasia seemed satisfied with the young captain’s genuinely bewildered reaction to the notion. When the lady shrewdly discerned that Hanna had put her up to it, Sitara confirmed that she believed he would do the job credibly. Ultimately Sitara’s personal opinion meant very little, certainly in comparison to Nyasia with her standing and the familiarity with the Council; however, the fact was that they would need a new Master of Seas in order to effectively address these dangers.
Turning to Mesi and Kasumi, Nyasia inquired after their opinions on the matter. Mesi’s initial response was of reserved concern for the troubled state of her country. When pressed, however, she declared her belief that all nations must unite to stand against the threat the Ta Atouans now posed to their neighbors—the Ash-Sh’b, the Free Isles, the Dasceans, the Minzokans, perhaps even the Skenden. Momentarily forgetting the Ash-Sh’b enmity towards the Free Isles, Mesi quickly read the discomfort in the room and emphasized the need to ally with the Ta Atouan expatriates and fugitives living there, especially since it might be necessary to overthrow the oppressive government of Al Qura.
The tension somewhat relieved, Nyasia questioned the plausibility of Mesi’s proposal but accepted their firsthand knowledge of the Ta Atouan attacks. Kasumi admitted that while there was no substantial talk of Ta Atouan aggression in Xien La, he believed it was a safe assumption that if their forces were attacking the Dascean and Oami coasts the Minzokan would be next. Nyasia agreed to speak to the Council as it was high time to select new Master of Seas, and that she would vote for whom she saw fit. She also indicated her support of their proposal of seeking allies, and asked that they keep her apprised of their efforts.
As their meeting concluded and Nyasia directed the guards to escort the three of them out, they heard a muffled noise outside. The guards opened the chamber doors and a girl, perhaps 10 years of age, rushed in until she realized her grandmother was not alone. Subtly chiding the girl for interrupting them, Nyasia introduced her granddaughter, Nadiyya binte Akram Musa.
When Sitara introduced herself and her crew, Nadiyya seemed to recognize her, though she managed to keep her composure. Having nothing to add to their exciting discussion of the state of politics, and keen on knowing more of their ship and their travels, Nadiyya asked if the captain could share some stories.
Happy to humor the girl, Sitara spun a wondrous tale of how the great Master Shipwright Alim bin Takumi Urashima once traveled to the Oamre Forest...She told of how he had obtained the great redwood tree that he would use to construct the greatest, most wondrous vessel of its kind, painting a glorious picture of the ship with her words. After describing the figurehead, she imparted the Tale of Leany, how she lost and was reunited with her love after many trials, including a thrilling race, an encounter with a frightful sea monster, and braving an impossible maelstrom. She concluded with Alim, having built Viz Leany to brave the seas as her namesake had, setting about to find a crew for this magnificent ship.
Though Nadiyya craved more, her grandmother gently decided that was enough for the day, though some heard her mutter about the child having too much of her mother in her. Leading them to the front door of the house, Nyasia wished them luck on their journeys and that the Jinn watch over them. After remarking that they always had, Sitara noted a brief look of dubious concern pass over the lady’s stoic expression. Wishing Nyasia luck in her own endeavors, Sitara, Kasumi, and Mesi took their leave.
Akash informed the crew of his decision to remain in Rhakosis, feeling the need to tend to the recent troubles with his mine and business. After Kasumi was released from his contract with Akash, he approached the Captain to express his wish to continue on with the crew of Viz Leany, if she would have him. Sitara was willing to keep him on, though with the caveat that he would never again involve the crew in Brotherhood matters, to which Kasumi agreed.
Since Mahfuz was presumed dead, the landlord Khorsheed gave the crew first claim on items of the sage’s estate as a gesture of good will and recompense for their missing property. Using Alim’s mirror and monocle, they spent the day examining the sage’s collection of objets d’art and odd curios, as well as his impressive library. They noted several items of interest, though none matching the power or value of the lost Mon.
Kasumi managed to locate a stash of coins of various currencies, but was disappointed to find that the texts on religious and mythological topics he was most interested in were likely stolen with the Mon. Mesi found a Minzokan oni mask which presented a benevolent face when turned upside down, as well as a statuette depicting the Ta Atouan god, and books on Minzokan families and fairy tales. Sitara discovered texts of sailors’ tales, ships’ logs, and map folios, as well as books on engraving and poetry. She also rescued an Oami dreamcatcher lying unused on a shelf, and was struck by a strange half-mask of a woman’s face whose hair hung over the empty side. Khorsheed was quite amenable to their selections, and somewhat surprised they had left him with appraisals of his former tenant’s inventory and had given over the sage’s hidden funds.
...*...
A few days after their return to Rhakosis, Mesi ventured back to the Swaying Serpent to inquire about Serrai with the bartender. He implied that Mesi might have better luck if she returned around lunch time tomorrow. The next day, Mesi returned to a slightly more crowded tavern, and placed an order before taking a seat. When the barkeep brought her drink, he discretely relayed that Serrai would be available later that afternoon at the same place they had met before.
Mesi continued eating quietly until a server approached her with a burning question. The young man inquired if she was the Ta’Atouan warrior whom Serrai had stood against in a test of blades during the Festival of High Sun. When Mesi confirmed his suspicions, he could not seem to contain his excitement as he became rather loud and animated. His outburst quickly drew the attention of the other patrons, but before he could follow up with more questions, the bartender shouted, “Farouk!”. He apologized and hurried back to the bar, leaving Mesi uncomfortably avoiding the gaze of the entire tavern, including three rough-looking men in the corner who were now eyeing her with both interest and perhaps respect. When Mesi finished her meal, she swiftly left and headed for the southern gate.
Returning to the same secluded clearing as before, Mesi expressed her interest in learning the particular sword art Serrai practiced. With a look from her Minzokan companion, the swordswoman indicated she was no master herself and it was not her place to teach it, and Mesi resigned herself to a sparring match, though she was still recovering from her experience in the mine.
They shared their respective outlooks on martial discipline and battle, as well as their intentions in the Festival competition. Serrai indicated she had sought the attention and favor of the Jinn: victory was only the means to the point. Mesi had acted upon her appreciation for the Ash-Sh’b culture, affirmed she had also sought to give her dues to the Jinn, and expounded upon how her understanding of the divine had developed over the course of her travels. She emphasized the need to respect the gods and spirits, citing what she had learned of Akash’s relationship with the Temple priests and his involvement with the Brotherhood as an example of inviting divine wrath.
With regards to the Brotherhood, Serrai seemed satisfied to learn that Akash had apparently wanted to recruit her to his faction before someone else did, though she clearly did not deign to join their ranks, only sub-contract, so to speak. When Serrai inquired after her future plans, Mesi revealed her plans to visit the Free Isles and make contact with expatriates there to garner allies...and perhaps eventually conquer the Unconquered City. Intrigued by Mesi’s new ambitions, Serrai also agreed to a contract to keep an eye and an ear out for the crew’s missing Minzokan artifact or Mahfuz until Viz Leany next made port in Rhakosis.
...*...
As soon as the party returned to the City of Sails, Kasumi set to work in pursuing his miniscule clue from the saboteurs' camp. He first tried to match the fragment of the symbol to crests of government buildings and local companies, followed by symbols and figures, but nothing quite matched. Kasumi asked many a poor soul if the fragment looked familiar, and while some thought they had seen something similar, no one could place it.
Feeling desperate, Kasumi finally decided he must go to the one place that he really didn't want to, the Temple. Not only had he and Akash disrespected the priesthood by keeping the Mon, but they had then lost it. Kasumi thought it unlikely the priests would be able to help him, even if they felt so inclined. However, Kasumi felt obligated to go ask forgiveness for his actions, and forced himself to make this pilgrimage. Bringing the monkey statue and goblet he had won from competitions during the Festival of High Sun, Kasumi made his way to the Temple.
Nervous of his surroundings, Kasumi made his way up the steps and under the elaborate entrance archway. Gingerly setting his prizes down as offerings at the altar, Kasumi took a moment to ask the Jinn for forgiveness, and sent out a silent cry for help. He needed to find these attackers, he needed to ensure that justice would be had.
After his prayer, he arose and found the nearest priest to ask for guidance. After apologizing for his previous disrespect, Kasumi asked for aid in his quest of retribution. The priest, feeling he would need someone with more experience, excused himself momentarily. Kasumi’s stomach dropped as he soon returned with the very man that Kasumi and Akash had refused to give over the Mon to.
Upon recognizing Kasumi, the priest was initially annoyed, until Kasumi explained the situation and begged his forgiveness. The priests agreed to see what they could do to help Kasumi, but as expected, neither recognized the fragment. Failing to provide a solution, the priest offered to pray to the Jinn to assist Kasumi in his journey.
Before Kasumi made to leave the priest suggested once more that he should really turn over the Mon, to which the accountant sheepishly admitted that it had been stolen.The priest was not impressed. Kasumi could do little more than swear that he would attempt to find the Mon in his travels, promising to do the right thing and bring the Mon back to the Temple.
...*...
Mesi began to anxiously ponder her last meeting with the Ta Atouan revolutionaries at their warehouse. She wondered about the mysterious individual whom Raptis appeared to be consulting with behind the crates, until her constant dwelling finally drove her to seek answers before setting sail.
Mesi shared with the Captain her desire to travel to the Free Isle where many Ta Atouan refugees and expatriates lived, as well as her intention to meet with Raptis again. Sitara and Kasumi accompanied Mesi to the shrine where they’d met before, and waited until Illiana showed up. Hesitant to start with her inquiry about the person behind the crates, Mesi opened with offering to pass along any messages since they would be sailing to the Free Isles soon. Taken aback by the gesture, Illiana replied that she would need to consult with Raptis for more details.
Deciding to test the waters further, Mesi asked her who it was the expatriates were protecting in the warehouse. While her response was evasive, Illiana told them to expect Raptis to be in touch with them shortly.
...*...
Sitara conducted some legwork to learn more about Nyasia’s son, the grandson of Amir-al-bahr Aden bin Tarik Musa, discoverer of the New World and the late Master of Seas. Ruh bin Faris Musa was a farmer like his father; it seemed the legacy of his mother’s family did not weigh heavily upon him, and he had a reputation for being a very down-to-earth individual.
She also learned he employed a number of children of various ages as farm hands, which she saw for herself when she went to visit the Musa farm one morning. As she was speaking with a youth who fancied himself quite the salesman, one of the elder workers, Ammar, arrived before the young man got carried away. Sitara inquired whether the Master Farmer might know Sakina, the caretaker of orphans she had met. After brokering a deal for some grain, Sitara also left word that she wished to speak with Ruh, hoping—believing that the farmer might show the same humanity in matters of a larger scale.
After several days passed, Sitara returned to the farmstead with Jyotish. On the way, they discussed their experiences sailing, as well as their families and histories.
The mild-mannered purser explained that the shorter expeditions he had gone on previously had left him with a curiosity to see more of the world. While his wife had not initially been keen on him signing onto Viz Leany’s crew, Jyotish believed she had come around, and he did not seem to regret his decision. In spite of their more harrowing experiences, he had learned much from their journeys, which had been very profitable, and added that the signing bonus Master Alim offered was not insubstantial.
Sitara confessed she sometimes questioned her decisions and still felt somewhat unaccustomed to not being second-guessed by others. Slightly surprised, Jyotish commented that self-reflection was good and self-confidence necessary in her role as captain, assuring her the crew and their patron’s faith had been well-earned. He certainly felt as safe as one could in their profession, with his crewmates and captain having proven themselves so capable in the face of danger and combat. Sitara mused that she’d had much practice growing up, between her aunt Tsura, her father’s Master of Arms, and Stig. Jyotish observed that perhaps her family background was part of what made her such a fitting captain for Viz Leany and her diverse crew.
With Sitara remarking that it is the Oami way to welcome all travelers, regardless of their culture, and take them in if needed, Jyotish commented that Ruh seemed to be of a similar spirit. He revealed that, while not polite conversation, it was rumored that the Master Farmer’s wife was barren. Not having any heirs to pass the Musa name to, the couple had taken in numerous children, ergo the rather young workforce on the farm. Though she was very appreciative of Ruh’s benevolence, Jyotish noticed that the cultural notion that heirs need be blood seemed to strike a nerve with Sitara, who expressed a firm conviction that acceptance into a family should be sufficient for inheritance.
Ammar met them upon their arrival at the manor, and suggested Sitara enjoy the grounds while he and Jyotish ironed out the particulars of their transaction. She turned about in the drive, and, seeing something of interest in every direction she looked, decided to make a circuit and set off towards a nearby barn.
Just as Sitara discovered a very pregnant camel, a friendly voice warned that she was rather testy at the moment. One of the workers, a pleasant middle-aged man, approached and offered his assistance before recognizing her as the captain who was to pick up a shipment today. Introducing herself, Sitara explained she had taken Ammar’s advice to explore the grounds when she’d stumbled across the grumpy beast. The man introduced himself as Faris, and as she shook his hand, Sitara noted the fine quality of his work clothes. When he remarked that she looked the sort who was used to happening upon things, she cheerfully confirmed his suspicion, but noted it was foolish to turn down guidance when offered.
As Faris escorted Sitara around the fields and through the orchards, she saw many youngsters working on the harvest, often in teams. When asked if she had any children, Sitara replied that she did not, though she enjoyed their company, with Faris noting that he usually found those who could not abide children difficult to abide themselves. Having an appreciation for children’s diligence and creativity herself, Sitara was glad Ruh had the generosity to offer food and work to these youngsters, many of whom, Faris informed her, had lost their families during the Long Dark.
When Faris asked her if this was the reason she had decided to do business with Ruh, Sitara admitted she had hoped to entreat the Master Farmer’s action, but had she been aware of his practices before, she would have gladly sought his business. While Sitara could not speak to the current rumors about conscription of Ash-Sh’b sailors, she relayed how her crew had rescued a Dascean coastal village and Oami caravan from Ta Atouan enslavement.
While clearly perturbed by this news, Faris was uncertain what action a farmer could take. Sitara hoped that Ruh might speak to those that could take action to protect the vulnerable—and the Musa name still held great sway in those circles. Faris thought that perhaps it was Ruh’s mother that Sitara would speak with, though he noted that she had become reclusive as of late.
They paused as they came upon a pair of children in the orchard, one harvesting fruit and the other napping peacefully on a crook in the tree. Nearby teams of children stopped to watch as Faris approached the slumbering child. When clearing his throat did not wake the boy, Faris thwapped him with the reed he had been using as a whistle, starting the boy awake. Sending his partner to another team, Faris left the boy he’d caught snoozing to work his tree alone.
Returning to Ammar and Jyotish, the foreman noted Sitara seemed to have found a guide. Intimating that he expected they would do business again, Faris took his leave. Sitara watched him as he disappeared from sight before turning to Ammar. She thanked him for passing along her message, and asked that he also pass along her thanks to Ruh for the tour. Chuckling at her insight, Ammarwished them well as the shipment was loaded onto the wagon.
As Sitara and Jyotish climbed into the wagon to leave, a young child came running from the house clutching an envelope. Seeming to identify Sitara by her hat, he handed it to her before rushing off. She looked down to discover that, in her hand, she held a letter addressed to Nyasia binte Tarik Musa.
...*...
When the crew retired that evening to the Purple Lantern, they found the innkeep Ziyad in a particularly anxious state. Making a bee line for the crew, he informed them that they had a visitor waiting in one of the curtained booths. Mesi, Sitara, and Kasumi exchanged puzzled looks before Mesi ordered a round of drinks and headed for the booth. She slowly opened the curtain to find Raptis lounging in the booth with one leg tucked up at a rakish angle.
Feeling apprehensive, the crew took their seats across from Raptis. As tensions settled, Raptis revealed that he had three sealed letters he wanted the crew to deliver once they arrived at the Free Isle. The envelopes were addressed to three individuals: Dejen, Dalitso, and Wambui. Mesi assured him that these envelopes would reach their intended destination without any issues.
Raptis accepted her word, and went to take his leave, until Mesi leapt to her feet to interrupt him. She asked who it was he was protecting behind the crates--and if it was the man she had helped in Al Qura. Raptis reassured her that she need not worry, that whoever was behind the crates was a “matter of family”. Mesi, relaxing slightly, seemed to accept his answer and allowed Raptis to pass. Once he left the inn, the three looked to one another, now filled with more questions than before.
...*...
When the Captain, Kasumi, and Mesi approached the Musa city estate with Ruh’s letter, they were met at the gate by the house guards. Escorting the three inside the grounds, the guards brought them to a well-appointed parlor, decorated with rich and exotic items. Admiring the decor, they waited in various states of nervous restlessness until the doors opened for the lady of the house, the most famous woman in the world.
A venerable and well-dressed woman in her sixties with a long plait of grey-streaked dark hair entered the parlor and studied them curiously as she took her seat. Upon introducing themselves, Nyasia seemed to recognize either Sitara’s name, or her family’s at least. Gesturing to her companions, Sitara offered the lady their gifts and briefly explained their origins. Mesi presented her the warm stones they’d discovered in the cache in the Oamre Forest, and Kasumi gave her a mulberry perfume Sitara had made from oil from the leviathan slain in the Sea of Ice. Seemingly intrigued by the gifts, the lady spritzed the fragrance before placing one of the warm stones upon her arm. While she was curious as to how Sitara had managed to secure a letter of introduction from her son, Nyasia was mainly interested in what exactly they wished of her.
Sitara told her of the rumors circulating about increasing Ta Atouan aggression on trade routes and of their personal encounter with slavers. Understanding from Captain Hanna that the Council of Captains had yet to select a new Master of Seas, Sitara stressed the need for the Council to unite. After remarking on the Council’s apparent childishness since her father’s death, Nyasia surmised that Sitara wished her to impress upon them the need to come to terms with the situation, and Sitara inquired if there were any Captains Nyasia believed would be suitable to the office.
Asking if Sitara would put herself forth for such an august position, Nyasia seemed satisfied with the young captain’s genuinely bewildered reaction to the notion. When the lady shrewdly discerned that Hanna had put her up to it, Sitara confirmed that she believed he would do the job credibly. Ultimately Sitara’s personal opinion meant very little, certainly in comparison to Nyasia with her standing and the familiarity with the Council; however, the fact was that they would need a new Master of Seas in order to effectively address these dangers.
Turning to Mesi and Kasumi, Nyasia inquired after their opinions on the matter. Mesi’s initial response was of reserved concern for the troubled state of her country. When pressed, however, she declared her belief that all nations must unite to stand against the threat the Ta Atouans now posed to their neighbors—the Ash-Sh’b, the Free Isles, the Dasceans, the Minzokans, perhaps even the Skenden. Momentarily forgetting the Ash-Sh’b enmity towards the Free Isles, Mesi quickly read the discomfort in the room and emphasized the need to ally with the Ta Atouan expatriates and fugitives living there, especially since it might be necessary to overthrow the oppressive government of Al Qura.
The tension somewhat relieved, Nyasia questioned the plausibility of Mesi’s proposal but accepted their firsthand knowledge of the Ta Atouan attacks. Kasumi admitted that while there was no substantial talk of Ta Atouan aggression in Xien La, he believed it was a safe assumption that if their forces were attacking the Dascean and Oami coasts the Minzokan would be next. Nyasia agreed to speak to the Council as it was high time to select new Master of Seas, and that she would vote for whom she saw fit. She also indicated her support of their proposal of seeking allies, and asked that they keep her apprised of their efforts.
As their meeting concluded and Nyasia directed the guards to escort the three of them out, they heard a muffled noise outside. The guards opened the chamber doors and a girl, perhaps 10 years of age, rushed in until she realized her grandmother was not alone. Subtly chiding the girl for interrupting them, Nyasia introduced her granddaughter, Nadiyya binte Akram Musa.
When Sitara introduced herself and her crew, Nadiyya seemed to recognize her, though she managed to keep her composure. Having nothing to add to their exciting discussion of the state of politics, and keen on knowing more of their ship and their travels, Nadiyya asked if the captain could share some stories.
Happy to humor the girl, Sitara spun a wondrous tale of how the great Master Shipwright Alim bin Takumi Urashima once traveled to the Oamre Forest...She told of how he had obtained the great redwood tree that he would use to construct the greatest, most wondrous vessel of its kind, painting a glorious picture of the ship with her words. After describing the figurehead, she imparted the Tale of Leany, how she lost and was reunited with her love after many trials, including a thrilling race, an encounter with a frightful sea monster, and braving an impossible maelstrom. She concluded with Alim, having built Viz Leany to brave the seas as her namesake had, setting about to find a crew for this magnificent ship.
Though Nadiyya craved more, her grandmother gently decided that was enough for the day, though some heard her mutter about the child having too much of her mother in her. Leading them to the front door of the house, Nyasia wished them luck on their journeys and that the Jinn watch over them. After remarking that they always had, Sitara noted a brief look of dubious concern pass over the lady’s stoic expression. Wishing Nyasia luck in her own endeavors, Sitara, Kasumi, and Mesi took their leave.