>>5415845>>5415499>>5415452>Pictured: Set Maat, buildings constructed by Anonymous “This council is almost over, hopefully, the demands of the uprising will be met. When this is all done, what role do you see yourself playing in your people’s future.”
Kaori: The same role, I always have. Providing what people need that I can offer.
“A poetic statement, but I was thinking more specifically.”
She gives a look like she’s been down this road before.
Kaori: I’ll work at my shop, making shoes and oars and doors for the people that want them. Build an extension so people who don't have homes can stay, and be a kind ear to listen to for those under hardship. Listen, I know what you’re getting at. I don't have the desire for heroism or rulership or anything else people pin all their hopes on. People like those because it's easier than the truth. It’s going to take all of us together to solve our problems.
“And yet they call you Ratu Adil.”
Kaori: The people can call me what they want. Fighting human nature is a losing battle. As long as it doesn't keep them from getting their needs, it's no concern of mine.
“And what are those needs? What do the people of Neikotan need to raise themselves up in our society?”
Kaori: The same thing everyone needs. Food, shelter, a way to live that isn’t in service to someone else’s profit. Neikotan wasn’t built as a home, it was built as a farm. People carted in on ramshackle huts, fed the bare minimum to keep working, and pushed so hard they don't have the energy for anything but sleep. The community there is strong, if their needs are met, they can thrive.
“That’s why you wanted the material to stay with the tribes.”
Kaori: Eko would use it for profit. Norodom for an army. But I’ve seen the demonstrations by the Elite Guard, there is potential for so much more. Fish hooks that last ten times as long, nails sturdy enough to support structures unheard of until now, tools to quicken work for carpenters and butchers. We can move past an Island of people struggling over scraps and fighting to get by to people actually *living.* Agana’s tribute law is going to hoard it all to the fleet, the peacekeepers, and anyone rich enough to buy it from the Taya markets.
“But the tribes will be free of other tribute. Neikotan will have the liberation you seek.”
Kaori: You’ve done good, Captain. Of the two options, I hope you win. But one day someone like Norodom will hold the ax, and when that day comes I pray to the Loa they’re not as powerful as Agana just made you.”
She starts to walk to the door but stops before the exit.
Kaori: A few of us are going to the Jaya Hall for drinks. Stop by if you want.
> ”You know what, that sounds like a good idea.”> “Some other time, I should check on Aggy.”> Sorry I’m busy, I have work to do with the Fleet.” 