Essay Questions

What moral dilemmas and sacrifices does Sai face as she sails farther from her home amidst the uncharted territories and diverse characters encountered during the expedition?

Throughout the novel, Sai grapples with profound moral dilemmas and makes sacrifices as she navigates unmapped territories. Sai's interaction with the stowaway, Bo, presents a moral dilemma as she endeavors to help him without revealing his presence. This situation challenges her loyalty to her aspirations as she balances the desire to break free from her origins and the risks of potentially jeopardizing her goals. Sai faces the dilemma of concealing her background from her peers, particularly from Paiyoon, to secure her position on the expedition. Her ambition to explore beyond the Fens drives her to maintain this façade. She fears exposure during the traditional ceremony when her lack of a lineal would reveal her humble origins. Moreover, Sai confronts the moral implications of exploration and annexation as she witnesses the consequences of Mangkon's past conquests. She faces an internal struggle between her ambition to chart unexplored lands and her growing awareness of the consequences inherent in colonial pursuits.

How does the revelation of the situation in Fahlin highlight the complex themes of exploration and colonization in the story?

The situation in Fahlin, marked by the appearance of fever flags and the subsequent decision to avoid landing, underscores the complex ethical dimensions of exploration. It suggests that the locals are suffering from Listrus fever due to factors related to colonization or the aftermath of war. This portrayal evokes the ethical predicament of exploiting conquered lands without considering the well-being of the indigenous population. Additionally, the contrast between Sai's expectations of Fahlin as a lush and vibrant place akin to Pitaya Island and the reality of a desolate and stripped environment reflects these repercussions. The depletion of natural resources speaks volumes about the consequences of imperial pursuits on the once-thriving ecosystem of Fahlin. Paiyoon's disillusionment over Mangkon's actions in Fahlin reveals the broader theme of conquest. His realization that the empire claimed everything from Fahlin depicts the ruthlessness of expansion without regard for sustainability.

How do Miss Rian's background and the discovery of the fisherman's map impact Sai's perceptions of ambition and identity?

The narrative unveils Miss Rian's personal history and her motives for being part of the expedition. It sheds light on her pursuit of recognition and acceptance within Mangkon society. Sai's reaction to this revelation, coupled with the discovery of the map, triggers reflections on ambition. The revelation of Miss Rian's background as Anchalee Sangra's half-sister significantly influences Sai's perception of social hierarchies and personal identity. Rian's pursuit of validation despite her background inspires Sai as it fosters her understanding of personal desire. Sai's reaction to the discovery of the fisherman's map showcases her belief in the significance of this newfound artifact. Recognizing the map's potential to lead the expedition to the Sunderlands, Sai becomes increasingly aware of the power that discoveries hold in shaping reputations and fortunes.