Post by Meira on Jul 29, 2010 20:29:49 GMT -5
Password: Space Slug
Character permission: Jenno
Name: Romarosa Olibarres Ispi deFe, "Roma"
Race: Human (Humani)
Age: 18
Height: 5'4"
Weight: 130
Birth place: Ispi House Vessel Viatge, Nomadic Humani Fleet, while within Alderaan space
Appearance:
Roma is of average build. Her musculature is of a softer nature, as she is not one for frequent physical activity. Her hair is thick and inky black. Her skin has an olive complexion. Her eyes had once been a rich brown, but are now almost entirely white due to scarring. Likewise, the skin around her eyes is scarred from a burn she received at age 15. Because of that burn, Roma completely blind. She sometimes wears a cloth over her eyes to cover the scars. Other times she might wear a hood that covers her face from the cheeks up.
Roma's clothing can be described best as gypsy-like, with much of it patchwork or at times even mismatched. The color red is prominent in almost all the clothes she owns, as it is considered lucky among her people. Her feet are usually clad in simple sandals. She often wears a necklace with a small, clear crystal, given to her by her mentor. She keeps her wooden walking staff with her at all times. It is as tall as her shoulders, made of a very dense wood, and is hooked at the top like a normal walking cane. A small, dented metal cup is tied near the top of the cane, another good luck charm.
Personality: Roma has a fairly dry, biting sense of humor and is often sarcastic with others. Not one to speak much around strangers, Roma has developed a facade that she presents to those she has not become close to. This is doubly so ever since she was blinded. If she were to become close to someone, the sarcasm might be less, but she's yet to know anyone with whom she completely drops the habit. Like almost all Humani, Roma is independent, and self reliant, or at least she is as much as she can be. She will only grudgingly accept assistance, and only do so if there is no alternative. Quick thinking, and sly, Roma can talk her way into and out of many situations. Her training under a fortune teller has embedded in her an acute ability to read others. This ability has suffered with her blindness. But as the years pass, she is learning to strengthen her other senses and has not completely lost her touch.
Occupation: Fortune Teller (Vident)
Rank: "Vagabund" sorta like a Journeyman rank
Bio:
Ho sento, senyora. I... I cannot see the child.
What do you mean?
I see only pain, and when the birth comes, I see nothing.
Look beyond the birth.
Only shadows, senyor. They shift and turn. Too much uncertainty.
Tell me, Vident! Will my baby live!?
I cannot say. I only know that you will not.
Looking into the future has always been a dangerous thing. One can never know if the actions they take after seeing their destiny will change their path, or solidify them on it. For Rosa and Ciro Olibarres, this question of how to change the future haunted the final weeks of Rosa's pregnancy.
The two Humani lived and worked aboard the Ispi House vessel Viatge, Ciro as an engineer and Rosa as a mess hall cook. The two had been married for just over twenty years and had been unsuccessful in rearing children. Doctors had deemed that Rosa might be barren, but the two never lost hope that they might have a child. When Rosa finally felt the stirring within her womb, the two rejoiced in their bona sort.
They took the first months of pregnancy slow and easy. Their friends, family, and coworkers were all aware of how important this was for the two. Rosa was allowed to lessen her shifts so that she might rest. She was given cups and bowls as good luck charms in hopes that she might carry a strong child. And when it was told that a powerful Vident would visit the vessel only weeks before the child was due, Ciro made sure to secure a time to meet with the old, wise woman.
Rosa welcomed the seer into their home and the ancient woman laid her hands on Rosa's swollen belly. Her eyes closed, the wrinkles of her face camouflaging them completely as she waded through the flux to find the child's fate. It was then that she delivered the fateful news. The child's fate was uncertain, but the mother's was not. The Vident apologized profusely as she left, leaving Rosa and Ciro to face the devastating news alone.
Unwilling to accept what the Vident had foretold, Ciro commanded Rosa to a bed rest for the remainder of the pregnancy. Sisters and cousins were a constant flow in and out of the Olibarres home, seeing to Rosa's every need. They feared letting the woman lift a finger lest it steal strength from the time she would need it most. But when the labor pains came, Rosa withered with every wave. She cried out, lost consciousness, came to with shrieks and faded away again. The midwives fought a constant fever in the woman and for a day and half the night they attended her. Yet still the child would not come.
There is no deeper darkness than the dead of night in space, and it was in that darkness that Rosa's last cry rattled out and the flux within her was held no longer. The midwives, sisters, and cousins cringed against the walls of the room. Such a death was mala sort and all watched each other from the corners of their eyes to see who would chance to touch the body.
Finally, one of the elderly midwives stepped forward, clutching a crystal that hung from a worn leather band around her neck. A shaky had extended out, and as it hovered over Rosa's stomach, something moved beneath the skin. The woman jumped back, cursing in the ancient Humani tongue. Frightened whispers filled the room. Could it be? The midwife sent a cousin to fetch a doctor. The rest waited with baited breath until she returned, the doctor in tow. The man examined Rosa's body, probing for signs of a life within. When he found the child's heart beat, he nearly jumped. They were wasting precious moments. The child had to be removed. With no fear of damaging the mother further, the doctor opted to cut the child out.
Ciro sat in the home of his brother, whiskey drink in hand as he waited for news. The birthing room was no place for men, save a doctor if one was necessary. No, Ciro's place was with his family, waiting. He waited a day and long into the night with no news of his wife. He fretted, paced, sat, stood, and paced again. His brother and sister-in-law did their best to try and calm his nerves, but with two children of their own, they knew what he was going through. The only thing that seemed to help Ciro keep his nerves was the drinking. His brother kept him at a slow pace, not allowing him to get too out of his wits. Ciro was learning to calm himself when Rosa's cousin appeared at the door.
Her hair was a mess, her eyes red from tears that had been hastily wiped away. Her hands were shaking. When she entered the room, Ciro stood, demanding to know how his wife and child were. Rosa's cousin's lip trembled as she delivered the news. Ciro sank back into his chair.
Ciro, perdoni... They ask for the child's name.
Ciro sat in the chair, his face in his hands.
Ciro...
Matarosa. He mumbled, barely audible.
What?
MATAROSA! He roared, jumping up from his chair. She killed my Rosa. Su nom es Matarosa! He threw the whiskey glass onto the ground, shattering it into so many pieces before storming from the room. His brother rushed after him, leaving his sister-in-law and Rosa's cousin frozen in shocked disbelief. The sister-in-law shook her head, then finally spoke.
She was to be called Romarosa, after her mother and grandmother.
With tears in her eye, Rosa's cousin thanked the woman before rushing back to the doctor and midwives. The child that had been removed from the dead body of her mother was named in the absence of her father. None could think of a more unlucky way to begin a life.
A bad beginning lead to a bad infancy. The news of the circumstances of the child's birth spread through the ship like a virus, infecting the eyes of all who saw poor Ciro and his most unlucky child. Some gifts had been given for little Roma; clothes, small bowls and cups. Ciro accepted the gifts with as much grace as any could expect from a man who'd suffered so much. Rosa's sisters would help take care of Roma while her father worked, and while he drank, and while he grieved. It seemed as if when Rosa died, his will died with her.
Ciro turned to drinking more and more, leaving the care of his daughter to anyone who would take pity on the child. He couldn't stand the sight of her, knowing what the price of her life had been. He'd cursed the hour she was cut from Rosa's womb many times. Other would turn their eyes down and away sadly at his words. Though no one ever stopped him. No one could say they wouldn't feel the same as he. Though they wouldn't say it themselves, all knew that it would have been better had the child not lived. It would have been at least a little easier.
In spite of the neglect from her father, Roma grew well enough. She walked a bit later than other toddlers, and spoke a bit later. But considering her circumstances, it was a wonder the child did as well as she did. By the age of two, the ship she lived on prepared for the Junta which came every five years. Though Roma would not remember this, her first Junta, it would set the standard for those to come in her life.
When the Viatge arrived at Junta Station, Roma was for once with her father. He seemed to be in better spirits than he'd been in a long time. His family was happy to see him holding his daughter, and even smiling a bit. They hoped that perhaps the prospect of seeing old friends would be just what Ciro needed to begin to turn his life back around. And at first, it did seem like he was doing just that. Ciro was jovial during the first two weeks of the Junta. He was quick to laugh and share stories and even seemed to enjoy playing with Roma. But as the second half of the event began, Ciro began to turn for the worst again.
If he spent too long drinking with friends, Ciro would slip back into his melancholy moods, pining for his wife and the years before Roma took Rosa away. One night, Roma was found wandering alone. When she was asked where her father was, Roma responded that he was sleeping. Ciro had been found the next day, passed out in one of the open market areas. Another day, toward the end of the Junta, someone had overheard Ciro considering selling the child to an estrani (non-Humani) if the price was right. His family admonished him, but no one could prove anything. As the Junta ended, Roma was mostly back in the care of her many aunts and uncles. One year later, Ciro drank himself to death, leaving Roma an orphan.
With both her parents dead, Roma was left to whoever would take her. But who would take such an unlucky child? It had been much already for her family to care for her during the days or while her father drank. None of her relatives had room in their homes for her. And if they were honest with themselves, none had room in their hearts. Her fate was squabbled over for months as her aunts and uncles would take her in for a few days, then pass her along to the next whenever something happened that they could blame on her bad luck. Her relatives eventually all became so bitter toward each other that the captain of the Viatge, an old gray haired man, finally stepped in. His quarters were too large for just himself. His wife had died years ago, his children off to find their own way, as was right. He had room enough for the child, so long as her family agreed to accommodate her as they had done before her father died. This the families agreed to.
Even though the solution had been found, it was not to say that life became any easier for little Roma. Indeed, the attitudes of others toward the little girl remained largely the same. She was unlucky and misfortune followed her. Though her family could not deny her food, or a lesson here or there, they could not find it in them to love her as they felt they should. And so Roma grew, learning the lessons that all Humani children learned, but for her, these lessons were cold truths.
She was encouraged to be independent and helpful, as the other children, but never received the same warmth of praise when she exemplified these ideals. She learned both Humani and Basic through hearing it every day, but her conversations with others were always short and to the point. The adults didn't want to waste too much time on a child they saw as a burden, and the children feared her.
Older children whispered rumors about the girl. Some said her mother had been bitten by some kind of dog while pregnant with Roma. Others whispered darker things. The most terrible was that When Roma's mother died giving birth to her, a restless spirit snuck into the dead infant's body and was now trying to trick other into thinking that it was alive again. Whenever these stories were overheard by adults, the children would be chastised. But Roma couldn't remember ever being reassured of anything.
Even the old captain, Senyor Rodic, the only person that could be said to have been more than just kind to the girl, couldn't deny her unfortunate circumstances. We all have our place in the flux. He'd told her when she was five and crying in his arms after overhearing the other children make fun of her. We cannot change our place. We can only make the best of what is given to us. Roma was simply too young to understand him, or any of it.
Roma learned to keep herself out of the way as much as she could. She learned to stay to herself and not approach others unless beckoned. She learned to play without friends, and how to take care of herself. But soon, even that would not be enough. Roma would awake, one morning at the age of six, to find that Senyor Rotic had died in his sleep. His death astonished those who lived aboard the Viatge. Old as he was, Rotic was still considered a strong man. After his funeral, even the adults whispered rumors that it had been Roma's mala sort that killed the man. What was worse, Rotic's successor as captain believed this to be true.
Senyor Faro was a much more superstitious man than Rotic had been. In his time working under Rotic, Faro disapproved of Roma's move to the captains quarters, but had been unable to voice his opinion. But with the title of captain now upon his own shoulders, Faro wasted no time in ordering Roma back to the case of one of her aunts. His insensitivity to the girl was noted among the inhabitants of the ship, but again, none could blame his reasoning. And with only one more year until the next Junta, Roma was tolerated. At the Junta, she'd be old enough to begin her anys ombra, shadow years, with someone from another vessel, perhaps another clan, anything to be rid of the girl. The shadow years were a right of passage among all Humani children before they began their apprenticeships. The children would learn further independence, having to live away from their families. Most sent children to distant relatives, or family friends. For Roma, however, any taker would do.
Roma found that life after Rotic's death was not too dissimilar to before. She was chastised more severely, blamed for accidents, but in general was simply ignored as much as possible. Roma came to welcome their ignorance, it meant she wasn't about to be punished for her mala sort. She knew that soon she would be sent off soon enough, to learn to find her own way. She dreamed every night of what it might be like to be welcome, loved.
Passing Roma off on another vessel turned out to be more difficult than what Senyor Faro had thought. It seemed that gossip had spread like a plague among the Humani fleet. Too many believed Roma's mala sort had killed Senyor Rotic. None would take her. The Junta month seemed to fly by as Faro was denied again and again. The man was desperate to find someone to take her before the Junta ended and he was stuck with her for another five years.
Roma spent her time at the Junta the same way she always spent her time. She tried her best to stay out of sight and out of mind. Though, at Junta Station, Roma found more freedom. Though many whispered about the unlucky Ispi girl, only those from the Viatge knew her face. Roma found that among the crowds of Humani, she could be whoever she wanted, as long as she never gave away who she truly was. For the first time ever, Roma found herself playing with other children. When they asked her name, she would tell them "Rosa" and was content that it wasn't a total lie. The days at Junta station were happy ones as long as she stayed far away from where the Viatge was docked. But even still, Roma had to return to her home ship at night, leaving behind the life she'd been dreaming about for so long.
It was on one of those lonely walks home that Roma met the oldest person she'd ever seen in her short life. Tanit Irridi Zabala deVela Was in fact only 65 years old, but life had not been kind to the woman. She had already been short in her youth, reaching only five feet tall, but age stooped the woman, causing her to be only a few inches taller than the seven year old Roma. She walked leaning heavily on a wooden stick that stood taller than herself and was curled at the top. her skin was loose and thin over her bony frame, her hair bone white and stringy. Her fingers were contorted by arthritis and the few teeth she had were yellowed.
What is a child like you doing by herself? The old crone had said when Roma passed her. Tanit had been sitting on a blanket splayed out on the ground, her walking stick leaning against a wall. She barely reached as high as Roma's waist sitting as she was. Roma hadn't noticed her and was startled. Tanit had a hood low over her face as Roma approached. When she lifted her head, Roma gasped at the sight of her. Tanit cackled at Roma's reaction and invited the girl to sit and share some bread with her.
The two soon found themselves talking long into the evening. Roma's fear of the woman had quickly faded into curiosity as Tanit shared the stories of her life. Roma couldn't believe how many places Tanit had been. Her stories were so fantastical. When Tanit realized the time and asked why no one had been looking for Roma, the girl shook her head. She didn't want to tell Tanit that she was mala sort. She didn't want Tanit to chastise her and send her running away. But Tanit had a talent for reading the expressions of those around her. Reading Roma's shame was no hard task for her. Tanit changed tactics and asked Roma if she'd like her fortune read. Roma quickly agreed and offered Tanit her palm.
This was Tanit's trade, fortune telling. But unlike the force sensitive vidents, Tanit did so through sheer showmanship and keen study of her audience. Tanit didn't so much read fortunes as she did people. She had a gift for telling people what they would pay to hear more of, be it money, love, or danger. But for Roma, Tanit read what she saw in the girl's heart
You are an outcast. Mala sort. I see it now. When Roma seemed like she might pull away and flee, Tanit knew that this girl was the one the whole Junta was whispering about. You are the Ispi girl, the one that killed the ship captain.
I did NOT kill Senyor Rotic! Roma shouted back, pulling her palm away from the crones crooked fingers. Tanit cackled with laughter again, even as Roma's eyes filled with tears.
I know, child. But you'll soon learn that the truth is not always as important as what people want to believe. She began the slow process of standing up then. Roma watched her, confused, hurt, scared, angry. When she asked what Tanit was doing, the old woman gave her a wink.
I'll need to speak with your captain if you're to come be my shadow.
Faro was more than happy to be rid of Roma, and indeed, it seemed the two were a good match. Tanit had been something of an outcast her entire life. The vidents saw her as a pest, muddying their good name as legitimate fortune tellers. She was a vagabond, moving among the small vessels, staying with them as long as they'd keep her and reading fortunes for the estrani they did business with. Like Roma, none wanted to claim her as their family or their responsibility. Tanit saw herself in the child and knew that it was her place in the flux to teach the girl what no one had been around to teach herself.
Roma left the Junta with only a bag of clothes to her name. She and Tanit had found passage on a small trading vessel when Tanit offered to pay the captain 15% of her earnings from telling fortunes. The two rode with the vessel for a few weeks before the captain and crew grew tired of the two. They would then spend their time on whatever planet they were left on working to earn money to buy passage on another vessel. They rode with Humani ships as often as possible, but accepted estrani passage when there was no other alternative.
Roma was not allowed to assist, or even watch when Tanit read fortunes. It was not permitted, Tanit had told her. She was too young and could not learn a trade until her apprentice years. And at that time, Roma would have to find another to be her teacher. One did not apprentice under the same person that they shadowed. One must find their own way.
So instead of learning how to read fortunes, Roma was left to her own devices. Though Tanit's work came in small chunks of time, the girl had to learn to entertain herself. This was nothing new to Roma, who'd been mostly ignored her whole life before meeting Tanit. The difference was that Tanit DID take notice of her and taught her many valuable skills. Roma learned to prepare meals, wash and mend clothing, and manage their few belongings. In exchange for these chores, Tanit taught Roma the old tongue of the Humani, told her stories of their people's past, and educated her on the three guidelines.
Hold your own. Tanit would say if Roma complained about her work. Know your name. When the she felt sad or lonely. Go your own way. When she was scared or confused. These lessons were hard, but they were necessary to the Humani way of life. But with Tanit, Roma learned a slightly different slant to these words, a slant that only an outcast such as herself could grow to understand.
Roma would never be fully accepted among the Humani. Her mala sort would always set her apart. She would have to take care of herself or perish. To hold her own meant more than simply doing her share of work among others, it meant that she would have to rely solely on herself. To know her name, for Roma, was less about the history of her forefathers, and more about knowing herself. Without this insight, Roma would surely be lost. And to go her own way meant that Roma would have to find her place within the galaxy on her own. She would have to follow her heart more than she followed the beliefs of others. She would have to learn to accept the reality of her circumstances and make due with what she had.
And so Roma grew to slowly understand that her lot in life would never be easy. She spent many nights crying over her fate. Tanit's consolations were never pleasing, but the old woman told her that it would be easy to tell Roma what she wanted to hear, that everything would be fine, that it would work itself out in the end. It would be easy. She'd say. But it would not be true. In her profession, Tanit was not so concerned with the truth, but with Roma, she was always honest. The result was a young girl uncharacteristically hardened against the galaxy who spoke bluntly, not sparing the feelings of others. She grew to share a somewhat grim, sarcastic sense of humor with Tanit and held a devotion to the woman that was unending. But Tanit never failed to remind the girl that they would soon be separated. At the next Junta, Roma would be old enough to begin her apprenticeship.
When the Junta time came, Tanit sent Roma away to entertain herself while she spoke with the Vident council and other fortune tellers. Part of Roma wanted to stay with the old woman, but her youthful side won out in the end as the excitement of the Junta overwhelmed her. In the years since her last time at Junta Station, the sensation of the Ispi girl had died out. Her story had faded into the background as other, newer scandals occurred. Roma was particularly pleased with this fact when she'd accidentally run into a man in one of the open markets.
She'd looked up to see Senyor Faro looking down at her, a slightly annoyed expression on his face... but no recognition. He'd snapped at her to run along and watch her step before turning away. Roma stood, transfixed in amazement, for a few moments. Later, she'd found a mirror and studied her reflection. Had she changed so much? Her twelve year old frame was indeed considerably taller than it had been at seven. She'd started a growth spurt and was beginning to lose those youthful features as they were replaced by the signs of entering puberty. In truth, she was a pretty girl. But none of that really mattered to Roma. If Faro couldn't recognize her, she could be whoever she wished! She was overcome by the sense of freedom this realization brought her.
She struck out into the crowds with new found boldness and confidence. She approached others more willingly and found that she was treated no different than anyone else. She began to chat with others in the marketplace, and had even found others her age that welcomed her presence. It was among these other soon-to-be apprentices that Roma met a boy named Pau.
The two struck up an easy friendship. Pau was kind and quick to laugh and seemed genuinely interested in Roma's stories. He would brag and boast, as boys were wont to do. Roma found herself adoring the way he strutted around, so confident in his future. She would blush when he sat close to her, giggled incessantly at his jokes. One day, near the end of the Junta, as they walked through the stalls of the open market with a group of friends, Pau took Roma's hand in his. The others teased them, and Roma blushed, but her heart danced at the attention he showed her. That evening she kissed him on the cheek before they parted for the night.
The next morning, Tanit took Roma with her instead of leaving the girl to her own devices. The crone had met only opposition as she searched for someone who would take Roma as their apprentice. Again, it was the girl's reputation as mala sort that stood in the way. Tanit had even brought her concerns to the Vident council. Today they were to meet before the council.
The audience was short. Tanit presented Roma, but the Vidents were unimpressed. Roma had no Timo to speak of. At best she could only be a false seer, like Tanit. This would only sully the Vidents' reputation. Tanit was outraged, showing an anger that Roma had never seen in the woman before. She cursed the Vidents and their cruelty and declared that she would teach Roma herself. The Vident Council threw them out, admonishing the transgression against custom. But Tanit assured Roma that she would do as she said, no matter what they thought. The Vident Council could not stop her, they had no such authority. They were already outcasts and unlucky to begin with, how much worse could things get?
Tanit allowed Roma to go off on her own again that evening. The crone would be busy finding them a ship to ride with anyway. Roma immediately searched out Pau and the rest, but when she found them, she saw something different in their eyes. One of the children had heard about what had happened with the Vident Council. Roma's identity as the Ispi girl had been revealed. The children all looked on her with disdain and kept their distance. Even Pau would not approach her. Though his eyes seemed to hold a hint of sadness, they were hardened and cold. He called her mala sort along with the rest and then turned his back on her. Roma fled back to Tanit in tears.
Like always, Tanit wasn't overly kind when she consoled the crying girl. What do you do when a machine has a broken part? She asked, waiting patiently for the confused and distraught Roma to answer. You.... change the part? Roma answered through the tears. That is right. Tanit said. You replace it. Now, what do you do with a broken arm? Roma shook her head, not wanting to listen to the nonsense, but Tanit only asked again. You put it in a cast. Yes. Tanit nodded, stroking Roma's hair almost absentmindedly. You brace it. But child, what do you do with a broken heart? Roma raised her eyes to meet Tanit's, but new tears flooded her vision, blurring it. I don't know! She cried. Tanit placed a crooked finger under the girl's chin, wiping the tears from her cheeks with the other hand. You face it.
The next morning, Roma and Tanit again left Junta Station behind as they set out into the galaxy aboard a small trading vessel. Their means of travel and way of life remained the same, but now Tanit allowed Roma to sit in on her readings as long as Roma remained silent and all but invisible. She was instructed to observe the customers as best as she could, and then afterward Tanit would ask Roma questions about the estrani.
At first, Roma found the questions impossible to answer. How was she supposed to know if the person had a spouse? Was she supposed to tell things like wealth or superstitions just from a face? Tanit believed so. Tanit taught her slowly. She knew that Roma would have the natural basics for the talents she hoped to develop in the girl, she simply had to find a way to get Roma to use these talents intentionally.
Over time, Roma would learn to take what she'd developed as a child, that keen sense of when she was about to get in trouble, and apply it to other situations. She came to learn that she'd developed a natural instinct to detect annoyance or anger in others, often times before those others recognized their own feelings. Roma had developed this as a means of survival, but now Tanit was showing her how to apply it as a trade. Roma learned the subtleties of many emotions, and how to play off of them. She learned to use her youth to her advantage, as well as the art of appearing mysterious and wise. All of these would be applied to fortunes, be they read by cards, palms, tea leaves, or the particularly dazzling crystal ball Tanit owned. The thing was useless, of course, but the estrani did not know that.
Slowly, Roma began reading palms, the easiest of the trade according to Tanit. The lines in one's palm were random and could be correlated with anything. Tea leaves were a bit harder, as they sometimes formed recognizable shapes that might grab a customer's preconceived notions. Roma had to learn to be wary of the species of her customer, lest she make a mistake. The cards were difficult. With pictures and numbers alike, customers would often come up with their own meanings in their minds as the cards were revealed. If this meaning was too different than the one the seer presented, the customer would likely lose confidence in the reading, and Roma would lose money. The crystal ball, Tanit said, was the most difficult because it called for expert showmanship. Otherwise the seer would very quickly be proven a fraud.
Three years passed as Roma learned her new trade, becoming stronger in the art of reading others. The two made a good pair, changing their act often and making decent money to pay their way on the ships that would take them. But when Tanit fell ill during one trading expedition to Taris, the two found themselves left behind once again. With no money to call their own, Roma and Tanit took to the streets in the lower levels of the city-planet.
They lived hand to mouth for many days, unable to save the few credits they earned reading fortunes. Now 15, Roma was restless and impatient, feeling that Tanit was being too cautions. Tanit insisted that they only work during the daylight hours, but Roma was sure that they could make twice as much at night as they did during the day. Tanit said it was too dangerous and forbade it. But after a few nights of not being able to sleep from her hunger, Roma defied Tanit's orders.
After the old woman was sound asleep, Roma took the fortune cards and stole out onto the streets. She set herself up in a little alley outside of a cantina. She was close to the light of a street lamp, but far enough out of it to keep that all important air of mystery. The accentuated that mystery by covering her face from the nose down with a semi-transparent kerchief. As patrons left the cantina, Roma found she had a steady flow of customers, all of whom had been drinking. This opened their minds and their pocketbooks to what Roma had to tell them of their futures.
All seemed to be going quite well, and Roma was indeed close to earning twice what they'd made earlier that day. But when two men sat down before her near dawn, Roma's own fortune changed.
Roma was tired, exhausted from a long day and now a long night of reading her customers. Her eyes were droopy, and her thoughts slow and muddled. The men were far more drunk than her previous customers had been. At first, this made them jovial and talkative, but as Roma began turning cards, they grew quiet and serious. Each card, as she placed them one by one before the men, revealed gruesome scenes. The first depicted a dancing skeleton holding a babe by the ankle. The second showed eight bloodied swords stabbed into the ground. The third was of a thief. The fourth and final card showed one man stabbing another in the back.
Roma's vision began to blur as she stared at the cards. The long night had taken its tole and she could not concentrate. She stumbled over her words, eyes darting back and forth between the men and the cards. Even in their drunken state, or perhaps because of it, the men seemed to sense that something was off. But instead of directing their growing suspicion toward her, as she expected, Their eyes were drawn toward one another, neither seemed content.
She wracked her mind to think of what she might tell the men. Fear was often good in a fortune reading. Fearful customers might pay more to learn what they could do to avoid possible danger or misfortune. But too much fear led to anger. Angry customers never paid more, and often demanded their money back. If such a customer was strong enough, there was nothing to do but return the credits, lest the reader be attacked. Roma feared attack now.
The two spoke to each other in hushed, angry tones. Roma tried to speak, but they ignored her. They each gestured at the cards, their words foreign to Roma. She tried to present less foreboding possibilities for the cards, but they wouldn't hear. When the two men took their argument to their feet, Roma slowly stood as well. She could see that whatever the two men quarreled over, it would not end well.
Sure enough, the angry words turned into pushing and shoving. One of the men pushed the other so hard, he almost fell to the ground. If he had, he might have taken Roma with him, but she jumped out of the way, pressing herself up against the alley wall. She was afraid to move, for fear that she'd be caught in a punch or shove, but her lack of movement ended her in between the men anyway. Then, suddenly, blasters were drawn. From both sides, Roma was in danger. Each man yelled and flailed their blaster haphazardly and Roma was caught between staying frozen against the wall, or trying to duck out from between the men and flee.
The second won out, but it spelled a terrible fate for the girl, and one of the men. Her sudden movement caused both men to fire their blasters. Roma watched, almost in slow motion, as one bolt ricocheted off the wall of the alley and up into the air. But the other bolt came flying right passed the girl's face, so close in fact, that the heat of the bold burned into Roma's wide eyes and the skin around them. The girl fell to the ground immediately, screaming in pain. Her vision had gone white from the intensity of the light the bolt produced. The pain was unbearable.
That same bolt had continued through the air and found it's mark in the center of one of the men's back. That man also fell to the ground, but he did not scream. The surviving man wasted no more time in the alley, but fled, leaving Roma alone as she writhed in pain.
She tried to stand, groping for the walls of the alley to use as support. All she could see was darkness. When she tried to open her eyes, she realized with terror, that they were already open. She was blind. All the while the pain continued, searing and unforgiving. She found the wall and stood, taking timid steps forward, only to trip over the dead man's body and fall back to the ground. She sobbed, crawling across the dirty ground for what could have been a mile, or only ten feet. Roma couldn't tell, and soon enough she fell unconscious.
When Tanit woke to find Roma gone, she knew immediately what the girl had done, but she couldn't have anticipated what she found at a government run clinic that evening. Tanit had spent the whole day searching for Roma. She'd been without a clue until she found a jumble of fortune cards in an alley near a cantina. When she'd asked the cantina owner if he'd seen Roma, the man said a girl was found in the alley earlier that afternoon. She was hurt and going in and out of consciousness. He'd pointed Tanit in the direction of the clinic, and that was when she'd found Roma.
Roma had bandages around her eyes and was laid up on one of the clinic's cots. She was awake, but barely. When Tanit identified herself as the girl's guardian, the nurse filled her in on as much of the story that they knew from Roma's infrequent lucid moments. They'd given her medicine for the pain, but there was nothing they could do to save Roma's sight. It took nearly all the money Tanit had saved to pay the cost of the medicine, but at least Roma was still alive.
As was Tanit’s custom, Roma was comforted only by the reality of the situation. The girl cried, full of self pitty. Tanit would pat her shoulder and make soothing sounds, but then would tell the girl that this was life. You made a mistake child, and it cost you your eyes. But it didn’t take the breath from your lungs, did it? No, you’re still alive. Count yourself lucky and lets move on. Moving on consisted of doing the exact same thing they’d been doing. Working. Only now Roma was faced with the challenge of re-learning her trade. Tanit insisted that the blindness could be played to their advantage. There was nothing more awe inspiring than a blind woman who could see beyond. But for Roma, nothing seemed and advantage.
She could barely move, stumbling about as she did. Everything took more time. Dressing, eating, walking from one side of a room to another, it all consumed her focus and left her nothing else. Tanit insisted that Roma had to let go of the eyes that no longer served her. stop trying to see through the scars, stupid girl. It won’t work. But Roma could not let go. At night, she would dream. She could always see again in her dreams. Colors more vivid than she’d ever seen with her waking eyes danced before her as she slept. Waking was the nightmare. When morning came and Roma felt her consciousness returning, it was like falling down into a black abyss that had no end. She would claw, kick, and scream, anything to hold on to that beautiful world of color and form. She never won.
But Roma, Humani that she was, could not suffer to be helpless for long. As time passed, Roma learned to heed her other senses more closely. Soon she found she could hear the slightest shuffle of a foot, the sound of Tanit’s soft breathing, or the nervousness in a customer’s voice. Her nose caught smells she didn’t even know existed, and with Tanit’s help, she learned to discern the meaning of the information her senses gave her. Roma learned to read the sound of a person’s voice almost as well as she’d learned to read their faces. The subtle inflections, changes in pitch, the usage of certain words over others; these were all signs of a person’s inner thoughts, desires, and fears. Roma’s memory changed. She learned to remember a room, or a ship, by the number of steps she took. She drew maps in her mind so that she would know where to turn to find a kitchen rather than a restroom. It was hard, and not without many failures, but Roma had no choice but to continue on.
The night that Roma entered into her 17th year, Tanit presented her with a gift. Though Roma could not see the color of it, the crystal was a brilliant blue, lashed and bound to a simple leather cord. Luck. The Humani carried many different kinds of talismans for luck, the likeness of a feline creature, a cup or a bowl, but crystals were the best. They were rare and believed to able to absorb bona sort in great quantities. It was my mother’s before it was mine, and who knows how many mothers back it goes. My mother told me it was the blue of the waters of our home world, but what does she know? Heh, it’s yours now, child. See that you make better use of it than I had.
The Junta was as it had always been, crowded and full of life. But like so many things in the last two years, Roma experienced it like never before. She and Tanit were given a wide berth, as was usual, even more so when people took notice of the scars Roma wore across her eyes. Was there any doubt now that the two were mala sort? But as always, Tanit seemed immune to their stares and their whispers. Roma had learned as well, but she could not ignore the sounds of their disapproval. At least she couldn’t see them.
Bold as ever and in spite of a terrible cough that had plagued her for months now, Tanit brought Roma before the Vident Council. She proclaimed Roma had fulfilled her apprenticeship years and that she was now ready to join the ranks of the vagabund seers, free to work her trade wherever the flux might take her. Tanit challenged the council to deny the girl, hoping to hear how they might enforce such a denial. The Council abhorred the insolence, but the truth was there the same. Roma was a free woman of the Nomadic Humani Nation, free to seek her own fate and fortune, no matter what sort followed her. They insisted that they would never claim Roma as one of their own, but conceded that she was free to work as she saw fit. Surely a blind girl would bring no trouble to them.
Roma and Tanit spent the next few weeks of the Junta much out of the way of the main areas. Tanit seemed nostalgic, visiting with old friends and even a sister. This woman was ancient, but not quite so much as Tanit. Her name was Sara and she cursed Tanit with every other breath for the misfortune Tanit had brought the family. But the curses were done in jest, with a deep love that Roma could hear in the woman’s voice no matter what words she used. It wasn’t until the last week of the Junta that Roma learned why Tanit seemed so nostalgic.
I’m dying, child.. Tanit coughed after saying the words. It was a painful sound, thick, deep, and cold. Roma sat beside her bed, the old crone’s gnarled fingers in her hands. Roma refused to believe the words, even though the smell of death surrounded her mentor like a heavy cloak. You’ve been worse, Tanit. The old woman laughed at that, a high, broken cackle that was cut short by another fit of coughing. This time, as the cough subsided, Roma couldn’t help but notice the metallic hint of blood in the air. You are right, child. I have been worse. But I’ve also been younger, heh. These bones are old and this skin is anxious to be rid of the mala sort it’s carried so long. Water, child. The glass is on the table. A bit to the right… there, yes.. Roma held the glass out with one hand, reaching for Tanit with the other. Tanit helped her guide the glass to her lips and took a long, slow drink. She sighed as she laid her head back against the pillow.
Where is Sara? Roma asked. If Tanit was truly dying, wouldn’t Sara want to be at her side? Heh. My sister loves me well enough, but we said our goodbyes when we visited her last. Sara is a terribly superstitious coward. She may love me, but she does fear my mala sort. No, I’m afraid you’re going to have to take it all yourself. I do hope you’re strong enough, heh. Roma almost laughed. What more could you do to me? I am the Ispi Girl, remember? And blind besides. I don’t even think the spirits want to come near me. That earned her another burst of laughter, followed by a stronger fit of coughing. Tanit didn’t speak again after that, nor did Roma.
Tanit passed away at an early hour before morning. Roma had been asleep, laid across the bed beside the old woman, holding her hand.
Attributes:
Physical Strength: 4
Intelligence:6
Speed:4
Leadership:2
Unarmed: 1
Melee Weapons: 2
Ranged Weapons: 1
Alignment: 0
RP Sample:
The room seemed empty with the bed gone. Roma could hear it in the way her voice echoed on the walls, could feel it in lack of things around her. She could cross the room from the door to the far wall with no obstructions. It was four large steps. The only things left now belonged to Roma. Her clothes and few personal belongings were bundled neatly at the foot of her pallet, two steps to the right of the door along the side wall. These things remained, and Tanit's walking staff. Roma had refused to allow the men to take it when they cleared the room. They'd cursed her, saying she was only holding on to bad luck. Her stark white eyes stared back, asking the question her mouth didn't need to voice.
What more could be done to me?
Tanit's body hadn't even grown cold before they took it. This was necessary, of course. The restless spirits were vigilant for opportunities and a vacant body was too tempting. It was removed, along with the bed and the rest of Roma's belongings, save the staff. She knew that somewhere, the body was being prepared, and might have already been burned. Sara had sent word that she'd come for Roma to take her to the funeral. It was for Sara, a stranger, that Roma waited for now. When the knock came at the door, Roma stood, stepped forward twice and turned left. She groped for the door and found it.
Benvinguda, Sara. Is that you?
It is, child. Sara's voice was painfully similar to Tanit's. Come, or we will be late.
The two navigated their way to a lower level of Junta Station in silence. Sara held Roma's right arm, leading her gently. The only sound was the tap, tap of the staff on the floor. When they reached their destination, Roma could hear only two other voices in the room.
Has no one else come? She asked Sara in a whisper.
I am Tanit's only family, child. My children and grandchildren never even knew her. The captain of our House ship is here, as is the captain of the ship that brought you to this Junta.
In truth, Roma wasn't sure what she'd expected. She had been surprised to learn that Tanit had a sister. Was it such a surprise then to realize there was no one else who truly cared? Roma felt a shiver run through her spine. Was this what her own funeral would be like?
The container that held Tanit's ashes was passed among them. Each held it for a short time. The custom was to send silent wishes with the dead, wishes for a peaceful rest. Roma had no way of knowing if this was what the others wished over Tanit's ashes, or if they simply gave thanks that the woman was gone. Roma took her turn, wishing with all her heart that Tanit found peace, then held the container out to Sara.
The woman took it with hands old and gnarled like her sister's. The room was silent. Roma felt the tears well in her eyes and spill over. As she wiped them away, she was startled to feel something pressed to her arm. She held her hand out, and the container was once again placed in her palms.
You were a daughter to her, Roma. She would have wanted you to send her away. Come.
Sara led Roma through the room and through a doorway. They now stood in the airlock room. Sara led Roma to a table that was bolted to the floor. The container shook as Roma lowered it, guided by Sara's hands, into a space on the table where it too was locked down. Roma removed the lid and clutched it to her chest as Sara guided her back out of the airlock room. The door closed behind them. A few moments later, the outer door opened and Tanit's ashes were pulled out into the vacuum of space. But all Roma could hear was the faint his of the doors closing once again.
Tanit was gone, her dust sent into the great ocean of space to ride the flux forever. In that instant, she was dissolved, made into nothing, yet part of all things. But Roma still could feel nothing but alone.
She fell to her knees then, the sobs coming unhindered. She could feel Sara's hands on her back and her arm, trying to coax her back up again. But Roma could not move, or did not want to, it didn't matter.
Come now, child. Tanit would not have wanted your tears wasted on her ashes. Now stand up, there's a good girl. Wipe your face, yes, that's it. I'll ask you something our mother once asked Tanit and I when we felt lost or heart broken. What do you do with a broken part?
Roma almost laughed. She took two deep breaths, then answered. You replace it.
Smart girl. And a broken arm?
You brace it.
Yes, that's right. And what about a broken heart?
Roma raised her head toward the woman. You face it.
Character permission: Jenno
Name: Romarosa Olibarres Ispi deFe, "Roma"
Race: Human (Humani)
Age: 18
Height: 5'4"
Weight: 130
Birth place: Ispi House Vessel Viatge, Nomadic Humani Fleet, while within Alderaan space
Appearance:
Roma is of average build. Her musculature is of a softer nature, as she is not one for frequent physical activity. Her hair is thick and inky black. Her skin has an olive complexion. Her eyes had once been a rich brown, but are now almost entirely white due to scarring. Likewise, the skin around her eyes is scarred from a burn she received at age 15. Because of that burn, Roma completely blind. She sometimes wears a cloth over her eyes to cover the scars. Other times she might wear a hood that covers her face from the cheeks up.
Roma's clothing can be described best as gypsy-like, with much of it patchwork or at times even mismatched. The color red is prominent in almost all the clothes she owns, as it is considered lucky among her people. Her feet are usually clad in simple sandals. She often wears a necklace with a small, clear crystal, given to her by her mentor. She keeps her wooden walking staff with her at all times. It is as tall as her shoulders, made of a very dense wood, and is hooked at the top like a normal walking cane. A small, dented metal cup is tied near the top of the cane, another good luck charm.
Personality: Roma has a fairly dry, biting sense of humor and is often sarcastic with others. Not one to speak much around strangers, Roma has developed a facade that she presents to those she has not become close to. This is doubly so ever since she was blinded. If she were to become close to someone, the sarcasm might be less, but she's yet to know anyone with whom she completely drops the habit. Like almost all Humani, Roma is independent, and self reliant, or at least she is as much as she can be. She will only grudgingly accept assistance, and only do so if there is no alternative. Quick thinking, and sly, Roma can talk her way into and out of many situations. Her training under a fortune teller has embedded in her an acute ability to read others. This ability has suffered with her blindness. But as the years pass, she is learning to strengthen her other senses and has not completely lost her touch.
Occupation: Fortune Teller (Vident)
Rank: "Vagabund" sorta like a Journeyman rank
Bio:
Mal Nascuts
Ho sento, senyora. I... I cannot see the child.
What do you mean?
I see only pain, and when the birth comes, I see nothing.
Look beyond the birth.
Only shadows, senyor. They shift and turn. Too much uncertainty.
Tell me, Vident! Will my baby live!?
I cannot say. I only know that you will not.
Looking into the future has always been a dangerous thing. One can never know if the actions they take after seeing their destiny will change their path, or solidify them on it. For Rosa and Ciro Olibarres, this question of how to change the future haunted the final weeks of Rosa's pregnancy.
The two Humani lived and worked aboard the Ispi House vessel Viatge, Ciro as an engineer and Rosa as a mess hall cook. The two had been married for just over twenty years and had been unsuccessful in rearing children. Doctors had deemed that Rosa might be barren, but the two never lost hope that they might have a child. When Rosa finally felt the stirring within her womb, the two rejoiced in their bona sort.
They took the first months of pregnancy slow and easy. Their friends, family, and coworkers were all aware of how important this was for the two. Rosa was allowed to lessen her shifts so that she might rest. She was given cups and bowls as good luck charms in hopes that she might carry a strong child. And when it was told that a powerful Vident would visit the vessel only weeks before the child was due, Ciro made sure to secure a time to meet with the old, wise woman.
Rosa welcomed the seer into their home and the ancient woman laid her hands on Rosa's swollen belly. Her eyes closed, the wrinkles of her face camouflaging them completely as she waded through the flux to find the child's fate. It was then that she delivered the fateful news. The child's fate was uncertain, but the mother's was not. The Vident apologized profusely as she left, leaving Rosa and Ciro to face the devastating news alone.
Unwilling to accept what the Vident had foretold, Ciro commanded Rosa to a bed rest for the remainder of the pregnancy. Sisters and cousins were a constant flow in and out of the Olibarres home, seeing to Rosa's every need. They feared letting the woman lift a finger lest it steal strength from the time she would need it most. But when the labor pains came, Rosa withered with every wave. She cried out, lost consciousness, came to with shrieks and faded away again. The midwives fought a constant fever in the woman and for a day and half the night they attended her. Yet still the child would not come.
There is no deeper darkness than the dead of night in space, and it was in that darkness that Rosa's last cry rattled out and the flux within her was held no longer. The midwives, sisters, and cousins cringed against the walls of the room. Such a death was mala sort and all watched each other from the corners of their eyes to see who would chance to touch the body.
Finally, one of the elderly midwives stepped forward, clutching a crystal that hung from a worn leather band around her neck. A shaky had extended out, and as it hovered over Rosa's stomach, something moved beneath the skin. The woman jumped back, cursing in the ancient Humani tongue. Frightened whispers filled the room. Could it be? The midwife sent a cousin to fetch a doctor. The rest waited with baited breath until she returned, the doctor in tow. The man examined Rosa's body, probing for signs of a life within. When he found the child's heart beat, he nearly jumped. They were wasting precious moments. The child had to be removed. With no fear of damaging the mother further, the doctor opted to cut the child out.
Ciro sat in the home of his brother, whiskey drink in hand as he waited for news. The birthing room was no place for men, save a doctor if one was necessary. No, Ciro's place was with his family, waiting. He waited a day and long into the night with no news of his wife. He fretted, paced, sat, stood, and paced again. His brother and sister-in-law did their best to try and calm his nerves, but with two children of their own, they knew what he was going through. The only thing that seemed to help Ciro keep his nerves was the drinking. His brother kept him at a slow pace, not allowing him to get too out of his wits. Ciro was learning to calm himself when Rosa's cousin appeared at the door.
Her hair was a mess, her eyes red from tears that had been hastily wiped away. Her hands were shaking. When she entered the room, Ciro stood, demanding to know how his wife and child were. Rosa's cousin's lip trembled as she delivered the news. Ciro sank back into his chair.
Ciro, perdoni... They ask for the child's name.
Ciro sat in the chair, his face in his hands.
Ciro...
Matarosa. He mumbled, barely audible.
What?
MATAROSA! He roared, jumping up from his chair. She killed my Rosa. Su nom es Matarosa! He threw the whiskey glass onto the ground, shattering it into so many pieces before storming from the room. His brother rushed after him, leaving his sister-in-law and Rosa's cousin frozen in shocked disbelief. The sister-in-law shook her head, then finally spoke.
She was to be called Romarosa, after her mother and grandmother.
With tears in her eye, Rosa's cousin thanked the woman before rushing back to the doctor and midwives. The child that had been removed from the dead body of her mother was named in the absence of her father. None could think of a more unlucky way to begin a life.
Desafortunat
A bad beginning lead to a bad infancy. The news of the circumstances of the child's birth spread through the ship like a virus, infecting the eyes of all who saw poor Ciro and his most unlucky child. Some gifts had been given for little Roma; clothes, small bowls and cups. Ciro accepted the gifts with as much grace as any could expect from a man who'd suffered so much. Rosa's sisters would help take care of Roma while her father worked, and while he drank, and while he grieved. It seemed as if when Rosa died, his will died with her.
Ciro turned to drinking more and more, leaving the care of his daughter to anyone who would take pity on the child. He couldn't stand the sight of her, knowing what the price of her life had been. He'd cursed the hour she was cut from Rosa's womb many times. Other would turn their eyes down and away sadly at his words. Though no one ever stopped him. No one could say they wouldn't feel the same as he. Though they wouldn't say it themselves, all knew that it would have been better had the child not lived. It would have been at least a little easier.
In spite of the neglect from her father, Roma grew well enough. She walked a bit later than other toddlers, and spoke a bit later. But considering her circumstances, it was a wonder the child did as well as she did. By the age of two, the ship she lived on prepared for the Junta which came every five years. Though Roma would not remember this, her first Junta, it would set the standard for those to come in her life.
When the Viatge arrived at Junta Station, Roma was for once with her father. He seemed to be in better spirits than he'd been in a long time. His family was happy to see him holding his daughter, and even smiling a bit. They hoped that perhaps the prospect of seeing old friends would be just what Ciro needed to begin to turn his life back around. And at first, it did seem like he was doing just that. Ciro was jovial during the first two weeks of the Junta. He was quick to laugh and share stories and even seemed to enjoy playing with Roma. But as the second half of the event began, Ciro began to turn for the worst again.
If he spent too long drinking with friends, Ciro would slip back into his melancholy moods, pining for his wife and the years before Roma took Rosa away. One night, Roma was found wandering alone. When she was asked where her father was, Roma responded that he was sleeping. Ciro had been found the next day, passed out in one of the open market areas. Another day, toward the end of the Junta, someone had overheard Ciro considering selling the child to an estrani (non-Humani) if the price was right. His family admonished him, but no one could prove anything. As the Junta ended, Roma was mostly back in the care of her many aunts and uncles. One year later, Ciro drank himself to death, leaving Roma an orphan.
No Desitjat
With both her parents dead, Roma was left to whoever would take her. But who would take such an unlucky child? It had been much already for her family to care for her during the days or while her father drank. None of her relatives had room in their homes for her. And if they were honest with themselves, none had room in their hearts. Her fate was squabbled over for months as her aunts and uncles would take her in for a few days, then pass her along to the next whenever something happened that they could blame on her bad luck. Her relatives eventually all became so bitter toward each other that the captain of the Viatge, an old gray haired man, finally stepped in. His quarters were too large for just himself. His wife had died years ago, his children off to find their own way, as was right. He had room enough for the child, so long as her family agreed to accommodate her as they had done before her father died. This the families agreed to.
Even though the solution had been found, it was not to say that life became any easier for little Roma. Indeed, the attitudes of others toward the little girl remained largely the same. She was unlucky and misfortune followed her. Though her family could not deny her food, or a lesson here or there, they could not find it in them to love her as they felt they should. And so Roma grew, learning the lessons that all Humani children learned, but for her, these lessons were cold truths.
She was encouraged to be independent and helpful, as the other children, but never received the same warmth of praise when she exemplified these ideals. She learned both Humani and Basic through hearing it every day, but her conversations with others were always short and to the point. The adults didn't want to waste too much time on a child they saw as a burden, and the children feared her.
Older children whispered rumors about the girl. Some said her mother had been bitten by some kind of dog while pregnant with Roma. Others whispered darker things. The most terrible was that When Roma's mother died giving birth to her, a restless spirit snuck into the dead infant's body and was now trying to trick other into thinking that it was alive again. Whenever these stories were overheard by adults, the children would be chastised. But Roma couldn't remember ever being reassured of anything.
Even the old captain, Senyor Rodic, the only person that could be said to have been more than just kind to the girl, couldn't deny her unfortunate circumstances. We all have our place in the flux. He'd told her when she was five and crying in his arms after overhearing the other children make fun of her. We cannot change our place. We can only make the best of what is given to us. Roma was simply too young to understand him, or any of it.
Roma learned to keep herself out of the way as much as she could. She learned to stay to herself and not approach others unless beckoned. She learned to play without friends, and how to take care of herself. But soon, even that would not be enough. Roma would awake, one morning at the age of six, to find that Senyor Rotic had died in his sleep. His death astonished those who lived aboard the Viatge. Old as he was, Rotic was still considered a strong man. After his funeral, even the adults whispered rumors that it had been Roma's mala sort that killed the man. What was worse, Rotic's successor as captain believed this to be true.
Senyor Faro was a much more superstitious man than Rotic had been. In his time working under Rotic, Faro disapproved of Roma's move to the captains quarters, but had been unable to voice his opinion. But with the title of captain now upon his own shoulders, Faro wasted no time in ordering Roma back to the case of one of her aunts. His insensitivity to the girl was noted among the inhabitants of the ship, but again, none could blame his reasoning. And with only one more year until the next Junta, Roma was tolerated. At the Junta, she'd be old enough to begin her anys ombra, shadow years, with someone from another vessel, perhaps another clan, anything to be rid of the girl. The shadow years were a right of passage among all Humani children before they began their apprenticeships. The children would learn further independence, having to live away from their families. Most sent children to distant relatives, or family friends. For Roma, however, any taker would do.
Roma found that life after Rotic's death was not too dissimilar to before. She was chastised more severely, blamed for accidents, but in general was simply ignored as much as possible. Roma came to welcome their ignorance, it meant she wasn't about to be punished for her mala sort. She knew that soon she would be sent off soon enough, to learn to find her own way. She dreamed every night of what it might be like to be welcome, loved.
A un Costat
Passing Roma off on another vessel turned out to be more difficult than what Senyor Faro had thought. It seemed that gossip had spread like a plague among the Humani fleet. Too many believed Roma's mala sort had killed Senyor Rotic. None would take her. The Junta month seemed to fly by as Faro was denied again and again. The man was desperate to find someone to take her before the Junta ended and he was stuck with her for another five years.
Roma spent her time at the Junta the same way she always spent her time. She tried her best to stay out of sight and out of mind. Though, at Junta Station, Roma found more freedom. Though many whispered about the unlucky Ispi girl, only those from the Viatge knew her face. Roma found that among the crowds of Humani, she could be whoever she wanted, as long as she never gave away who she truly was. For the first time ever, Roma found herself playing with other children. When they asked her name, she would tell them "Rosa" and was content that it wasn't a total lie. The days at Junta station were happy ones as long as she stayed far away from where the Viatge was docked. But even still, Roma had to return to her home ship at night, leaving behind the life she'd been dreaming about for so long.
It was on one of those lonely walks home that Roma met the oldest person she'd ever seen in her short life. Tanit Irridi Zabala deVela Was in fact only 65 years old, but life had not been kind to the woman. She had already been short in her youth, reaching only five feet tall, but age stooped the woman, causing her to be only a few inches taller than the seven year old Roma. She walked leaning heavily on a wooden stick that stood taller than herself and was curled at the top. her skin was loose and thin over her bony frame, her hair bone white and stringy. Her fingers were contorted by arthritis and the few teeth she had were yellowed.
What is a child like you doing by herself? The old crone had said when Roma passed her. Tanit had been sitting on a blanket splayed out on the ground, her walking stick leaning against a wall. She barely reached as high as Roma's waist sitting as she was. Roma hadn't noticed her and was startled. Tanit had a hood low over her face as Roma approached. When she lifted her head, Roma gasped at the sight of her. Tanit cackled at Roma's reaction and invited the girl to sit and share some bread with her.
The two soon found themselves talking long into the evening. Roma's fear of the woman had quickly faded into curiosity as Tanit shared the stories of her life. Roma couldn't believe how many places Tanit had been. Her stories were so fantastical. When Tanit realized the time and asked why no one had been looking for Roma, the girl shook her head. She didn't want to tell Tanit that she was mala sort. She didn't want Tanit to chastise her and send her running away. But Tanit had a talent for reading the expressions of those around her. Reading Roma's shame was no hard task for her. Tanit changed tactics and asked Roma if she'd like her fortune read. Roma quickly agreed and offered Tanit her palm.
This was Tanit's trade, fortune telling. But unlike the force sensitive vidents, Tanit did so through sheer showmanship and keen study of her audience. Tanit didn't so much read fortunes as she did people. She had a gift for telling people what they would pay to hear more of, be it money, love, or danger. But for Roma, Tanit read what she saw in the girl's heart
You are an outcast. Mala sort. I see it now. When Roma seemed like she might pull away and flee, Tanit knew that this girl was the one the whole Junta was whispering about. You are the Ispi girl, the one that killed the ship captain.
I did NOT kill Senyor Rotic! Roma shouted back, pulling her palm away from the crones crooked fingers. Tanit cackled with laughter again, even as Roma's eyes filled with tears.
I know, child. But you'll soon learn that the truth is not always as important as what people want to believe. She began the slow process of standing up then. Roma watched her, confused, hurt, scared, angry. When she asked what Tanit was doing, the old woman gave her a wink.
I'll need to speak with your captain if you're to come be my shadow.
Faro was more than happy to be rid of Roma, and indeed, it seemed the two were a good match. Tanit had been something of an outcast her entire life. The vidents saw her as a pest, muddying their good name as legitimate fortune tellers. She was a vagabond, moving among the small vessels, staying with them as long as they'd keep her and reading fortunes for the estrani they did business with. Like Roma, none wanted to claim her as their family or their responsibility. Tanit saw herself in the child and knew that it was her place in the flux to teach the girl what no one had been around to teach herself.
Del Mateix Cor
Roma left the Junta with only a bag of clothes to her name. She and Tanit had found passage on a small trading vessel when Tanit offered to pay the captain 15% of her earnings from telling fortunes. The two rode with the vessel for a few weeks before the captain and crew grew tired of the two. They would then spend their time on whatever planet they were left on working to earn money to buy passage on another vessel. They rode with Humani ships as often as possible, but accepted estrani passage when there was no other alternative.
Roma was not allowed to assist, or even watch when Tanit read fortunes. It was not permitted, Tanit had told her. She was too young and could not learn a trade until her apprentice years. And at that time, Roma would have to find another to be her teacher. One did not apprentice under the same person that they shadowed. One must find their own way.
So instead of learning how to read fortunes, Roma was left to her own devices. Though Tanit's work came in small chunks of time, the girl had to learn to entertain herself. This was nothing new to Roma, who'd been mostly ignored her whole life before meeting Tanit. The difference was that Tanit DID take notice of her and taught her many valuable skills. Roma learned to prepare meals, wash and mend clothing, and manage their few belongings. In exchange for these chores, Tanit taught Roma the old tongue of the Humani, told her stories of their people's past, and educated her on the three guidelines.
Hold your own. Tanit would say if Roma complained about her work. Know your name. When the she felt sad or lonely. Go your own way. When she was scared or confused. These lessons were hard, but they were necessary to the Humani way of life. But with Tanit, Roma learned a slightly different slant to these words, a slant that only an outcast such as herself could grow to understand.
Roma would never be fully accepted among the Humani. Her mala sort would always set her apart. She would have to take care of herself or perish. To hold her own meant more than simply doing her share of work among others, it meant that she would have to rely solely on herself. To know her name, for Roma, was less about the history of her forefathers, and more about knowing herself. Without this insight, Roma would surely be lost. And to go her own way meant that Roma would have to find her place within the galaxy on her own. She would have to follow her heart more than she followed the beliefs of others. She would have to learn to accept the reality of her circumstances and make due with what she had.
And so Roma grew to slowly understand that her lot in life would never be easy. She spent many nights crying over her fate. Tanit's consolations were never pleasing, but the old woman told her that it would be easy to tell Roma what she wanted to hear, that everything would be fine, that it would work itself out in the end. It would be easy. She'd say. But it would not be true. In her profession, Tanit was not so concerned with the truth, but with Roma, she was always honest. The result was a young girl uncharacteristically hardened against the galaxy who spoke bluntly, not sparing the feelings of others. She grew to share a somewhat grim, sarcastic sense of humor with Tanit and held a devotion to the woman that was unending. But Tanit never failed to remind the girl that they would soon be separated. At the next Junta, Roma would be old enough to begin her apprenticeship.
Trencant a Mida
When the Junta time came, Tanit sent Roma away to entertain herself while she spoke with the Vident council and other fortune tellers. Part of Roma wanted to stay with the old woman, but her youthful side won out in the end as the excitement of the Junta overwhelmed her. In the years since her last time at Junta Station, the sensation of the Ispi girl had died out. Her story had faded into the background as other, newer scandals occurred. Roma was particularly pleased with this fact when she'd accidentally run into a man in one of the open markets.
She'd looked up to see Senyor Faro looking down at her, a slightly annoyed expression on his face... but no recognition. He'd snapped at her to run along and watch her step before turning away. Roma stood, transfixed in amazement, for a few moments. Later, she'd found a mirror and studied her reflection. Had she changed so much? Her twelve year old frame was indeed considerably taller than it had been at seven. She'd started a growth spurt and was beginning to lose those youthful features as they were replaced by the signs of entering puberty. In truth, she was a pretty girl. But none of that really mattered to Roma. If Faro couldn't recognize her, she could be whoever she wished! She was overcome by the sense of freedom this realization brought her.
She struck out into the crowds with new found boldness and confidence. She approached others more willingly and found that she was treated no different than anyone else. She began to chat with others in the marketplace, and had even found others her age that welcomed her presence. It was among these other soon-to-be apprentices that Roma met a boy named Pau.
The two struck up an easy friendship. Pau was kind and quick to laugh and seemed genuinely interested in Roma's stories. He would brag and boast, as boys were wont to do. Roma found herself adoring the way he strutted around, so confident in his future. She would blush when he sat close to her, giggled incessantly at his jokes. One day, near the end of the Junta, as they walked through the stalls of the open market with a group of friends, Pau took Roma's hand in his. The others teased them, and Roma blushed, but her heart danced at the attention he showed her. That evening she kissed him on the cheek before they parted for the night.
The next morning, Tanit took Roma with her instead of leaving the girl to her own devices. The crone had met only opposition as she searched for someone who would take Roma as their apprentice. Again, it was the girl's reputation as mala sort that stood in the way. Tanit had even brought her concerns to the Vident council. Today they were to meet before the council.
The audience was short. Tanit presented Roma, but the Vidents were unimpressed. Roma had no Timo to speak of. At best she could only be a false seer, like Tanit. This would only sully the Vidents' reputation. Tanit was outraged, showing an anger that Roma had never seen in the woman before. She cursed the Vidents and their cruelty and declared that she would teach Roma herself. The Vident Council threw them out, admonishing the transgression against custom. But Tanit assured Roma that she would do as she said, no matter what they thought. The Vident Council could not stop her, they had no such authority. They were already outcasts and unlucky to begin with, how much worse could things get?
Tanit allowed Roma to go off on her own again that evening. The crone would be busy finding them a ship to ride with anyway. Roma immediately searched out Pau and the rest, but when she found them, she saw something different in their eyes. One of the children had heard about what had happened with the Vident Council. Roma's identity as the Ispi girl had been revealed. The children all looked on her with disdain and kept their distance. Even Pau would not approach her. Though his eyes seemed to hold a hint of sadness, they were hardened and cold. He called her mala sort along with the rest and then turned his back on her. Roma fled back to Tanit in tears.
Like always, Tanit wasn't overly kind when she consoled the crying girl. What do you do when a machine has a broken part? She asked, waiting patiently for the confused and distraught Roma to answer. You.... change the part? Roma answered through the tears. That is right. Tanit said. You replace it. Now, what do you do with a broken arm? Roma shook her head, not wanting to listen to the nonsense, but Tanit only asked again. You put it in a cast. Yes. Tanit nodded, stroking Roma's hair almost absentmindedly. You brace it. But child, what do you do with a broken heart? Roma raised her eyes to meet Tanit's, but new tears flooded her vision, blurring it. I don't know! She cried. Tanit placed a crooked finger under the girl's chin, wiping the tears from her cheeks with the other hand. You face it.
Estudiant
The next morning, Roma and Tanit again left Junta Station behind as they set out into the galaxy aboard a small trading vessel. Their means of travel and way of life remained the same, but now Tanit allowed Roma to sit in on her readings as long as Roma remained silent and all but invisible. She was instructed to observe the customers as best as she could, and then afterward Tanit would ask Roma questions about the estrani.
At first, Roma found the questions impossible to answer. How was she supposed to know if the person had a spouse? Was she supposed to tell things like wealth or superstitions just from a face? Tanit believed so. Tanit taught her slowly. She knew that Roma would have the natural basics for the talents she hoped to develop in the girl, she simply had to find a way to get Roma to use these talents intentionally.
Over time, Roma would learn to take what she'd developed as a child, that keen sense of when she was about to get in trouble, and apply it to other situations. She came to learn that she'd developed a natural instinct to detect annoyance or anger in others, often times before those others recognized their own feelings. Roma had developed this as a means of survival, but now Tanit was showing her how to apply it as a trade. Roma learned the subtleties of many emotions, and how to play off of them. She learned to use her youth to her advantage, as well as the art of appearing mysterious and wise. All of these would be applied to fortunes, be they read by cards, palms, tea leaves, or the particularly dazzling crystal ball Tanit owned. The thing was useless, of course, but the estrani did not know that.
Slowly, Roma began reading palms, the easiest of the trade according to Tanit. The lines in one's palm were random and could be correlated with anything. Tea leaves were a bit harder, as they sometimes formed recognizable shapes that might grab a customer's preconceived notions. Roma had to learn to be wary of the species of her customer, lest she make a mistake. The cards were difficult. With pictures and numbers alike, customers would often come up with their own meanings in their minds as the cards were revealed. If this meaning was too different than the one the seer presented, the customer would likely lose confidence in the reading, and Roma would lose money. The crystal ball, Tanit said, was the most difficult because it called for expert showmanship. Otherwise the seer would very quickly be proven a fraud.
Encegat
Three years passed as Roma learned her new trade, becoming stronger in the art of reading others. The two made a good pair, changing their act often and making decent money to pay their way on the ships that would take them. But when Tanit fell ill during one trading expedition to Taris, the two found themselves left behind once again. With no money to call their own, Roma and Tanit took to the streets in the lower levels of the city-planet.
They lived hand to mouth for many days, unable to save the few credits they earned reading fortunes. Now 15, Roma was restless and impatient, feeling that Tanit was being too cautions. Tanit insisted that they only work during the daylight hours, but Roma was sure that they could make twice as much at night as they did during the day. Tanit said it was too dangerous and forbade it. But after a few nights of not being able to sleep from her hunger, Roma defied Tanit's orders.
After the old woman was sound asleep, Roma took the fortune cards and stole out onto the streets. She set herself up in a little alley outside of a cantina. She was close to the light of a street lamp, but far enough out of it to keep that all important air of mystery. The accentuated that mystery by covering her face from the nose down with a semi-transparent kerchief. As patrons left the cantina, Roma found she had a steady flow of customers, all of whom had been drinking. This opened their minds and their pocketbooks to what Roma had to tell them of their futures.
All seemed to be going quite well, and Roma was indeed close to earning twice what they'd made earlier that day. But when two men sat down before her near dawn, Roma's own fortune changed.
Roma was tired, exhausted from a long day and now a long night of reading her customers. Her eyes were droopy, and her thoughts slow and muddled. The men were far more drunk than her previous customers had been. At first, this made them jovial and talkative, but as Roma began turning cards, they grew quiet and serious. Each card, as she placed them one by one before the men, revealed gruesome scenes. The first depicted a dancing skeleton holding a babe by the ankle. The second showed eight bloodied swords stabbed into the ground. The third was of a thief. The fourth and final card showed one man stabbing another in the back.
Roma's vision began to blur as she stared at the cards. The long night had taken its tole and she could not concentrate. She stumbled over her words, eyes darting back and forth between the men and the cards. Even in their drunken state, or perhaps because of it, the men seemed to sense that something was off. But instead of directing their growing suspicion toward her, as she expected, Their eyes were drawn toward one another, neither seemed content.
She wracked her mind to think of what she might tell the men. Fear was often good in a fortune reading. Fearful customers might pay more to learn what they could do to avoid possible danger or misfortune. But too much fear led to anger. Angry customers never paid more, and often demanded their money back. If such a customer was strong enough, there was nothing to do but return the credits, lest the reader be attacked. Roma feared attack now.
The two spoke to each other in hushed, angry tones. Roma tried to speak, but they ignored her. They each gestured at the cards, their words foreign to Roma. She tried to present less foreboding possibilities for the cards, but they wouldn't hear. When the two men took their argument to their feet, Roma slowly stood as well. She could see that whatever the two men quarreled over, it would not end well.
Sure enough, the angry words turned into pushing and shoving. One of the men pushed the other so hard, he almost fell to the ground. If he had, he might have taken Roma with him, but she jumped out of the way, pressing herself up against the alley wall. She was afraid to move, for fear that she'd be caught in a punch or shove, but her lack of movement ended her in between the men anyway. Then, suddenly, blasters were drawn. From both sides, Roma was in danger. Each man yelled and flailed their blaster haphazardly and Roma was caught between staying frozen against the wall, or trying to duck out from between the men and flee.
The second won out, but it spelled a terrible fate for the girl, and one of the men. Her sudden movement caused both men to fire their blasters. Roma watched, almost in slow motion, as one bolt ricocheted off the wall of the alley and up into the air. But the other bolt came flying right passed the girl's face, so close in fact, that the heat of the bold burned into Roma's wide eyes and the skin around them. The girl fell to the ground immediately, screaming in pain. Her vision had gone white from the intensity of the light the bolt produced. The pain was unbearable.
That same bolt had continued through the air and found it's mark in the center of one of the men's back. That man also fell to the ground, but he did not scream. The surviving man wasted no more time in the alley, but fled, leaving Roma alone as she writhed in pain.
She tried to stand, groping for the walls of the alley to use as support. All she could see was darkness. When she tried to open her eyes, she realized with terror, that they were already open. She was blind. All the while the pain continued, searing and unforgiving. She found the wall and stood, taking timid steps forward, only to trip over the dead man's body and fall back to the ground. She sobbed, crawling across the dirty ground for what could have been a mile, or only ten feet. Roma couldn't tell, and soon enough she fell unconscious.
When Tanit woke to find Roma gone, she knew immediately what the girl had done, but she couldn't have anticipated what she found at a government run clinic that evening. Tanit had spent the whole day searching for Roma. She'd been without a clue until she found a jumble of fortune cards in an alley near a cantina. When she'd asked the cantina owner if he'd seen Roma, the man said a girl was found in the alley earlier that afternoon. She was hurt and going in and out of consciousness. He'd pointed Tanit in the direction of the clinic, and that was when she'd found Roma.
Roma had bandages around her eyes and was laid up on one of the clinic's cots. She was awake, but barely. When Tanit identified herself as the girl's guardian, the nurse filled her in on as much of the story that they knew from Roma's infrequent lucid moments. They'd given her medicine for the pain, but there was nothing they could do to save Roma's sight. It took nearly all the money Tanit had saved to pay the cost of the medicine, but at least Roma was still alive.
Mantenir el Rumb
As was Tanit’s custom, Roma was comforted only by the reality of the situation. The girl cried, full of self pitty. Tanit would pat her shoulder and make soothing sounds, but then would tell the girl that this was life. You made a mistake child, and it cost you your eyes. But it didn’t take the breath from your lungs, did it? No, you’re still alive. Count yourself lucky and lets move on. Moving on consisted of doing the exact same thing they’d been doing. Working. Only now Roma was faced with the challenge of re-learning her trade. Tanit insisted that the blindness could be played to their advantage. There was nothing more awe inspiring than a blind woman who could see beyond. But for Roma, nothing seemed and advantage.
She could barely move, stumbling about as she did. Everything took more time. Dressing, eating, walking from one side of a room to another, it all consumed her focus and left her nothing else. Tanit insisted that Roma had to let go of the eyes that no longer served her. stop trying to see through the scars, stupid girl. It won’t work. But Roma could not let go. At night, she would dream. She could always see again in her dreams. Colors more vivid than she’d ever seen with her waking eyes danced before her as she slept. Waking was the nightmare. When morning came and Roma felt her consciousness returning, it was like falling down into a black abyss that had no end. She would claw, kick, and scream, anything to hold on to that beautiful world of color and form. She never won.
But Roma, Humani that she was, could not suffer to be helpless for long. As time passed, Roma learned to heed her other senses more closely. Soon she found she could hear the slightest shuffle of a foot, the sound of Tanit’s soft breathing, or the nervousness in a customer’s voice. Her nose caught smells she didn’t even know existed, and with Tanit’s help, she learned to discern the meaning of the information her senses gave her. Roma learned to read the sound of a person’s voice almost as well as she’d learned to read their faces. The subtle inflections, changes in pitch, the usage of certain words over others; these were all signs of a person’s inner thoughts, desires, and fears. Roma’s memory changed. She learned to remember a room, or a ship, by the number of steps she took. She drew maps in her mind so that she would know where to turn to find a kitchen rather than a restroom. It was hard, and not without many failures, but Roma had no choice but to continue on.
The night that Roma entered into her 17th year, Tanit presented her with a gift. Though Roma could not see the color of it, the crystal was a brilliant blue, lashed and bound to a simple leather cord. Luck. The Humani carried many different kinds of talismans for luck, the likeness of a feline creature, a cup or a bowl, but crystals were the best. They were rare and believed to able to absorb bona sort in great quantities. It was my mother’s before it was mine, and who knows how many mothers back it goes. My mother told me it was the blue of the waters of our home world, but what does she know? Heh, it’s yours now, child. See that you make better use of it than I had.
Gran Honor
The Junta was as it had always been, crowded and full of life. But like so many things in the last two years, Roma experienced it like never before. She and Tanit were given a wide berth, as was usual, even more so when people took notice of the scars Roma wore across her eyes. Was there any doubt now that the two were mala sort? But as always, Tanit seemed immune to their stares and their whispers. Roma had learned as well, but she could not ignore the sounds of their disapproval. At least she couldn’t see them.
Bold as ever and in spite of a terrible cough that had plagued her for months now, Tanit brought Roma before the Vident Council. She proclaimed Roma had fulfilled her apprenticeship years and that she was now ready to join the ranks of the vagabund seers, free to work her trade wherever the flux might take her. Tanit challenged the council to deny the girl, hoping to hear how they might enforce such a denial. The Council abhorred the insolence, but the truth was there the same. Roma was a free woman of the Nomadic Humani Nation, free to seek her own fate and fortune, no matter what sort followed her. They insisted that they would never claim Roma as one of their own, but conceded that she was free to work as she saw fit. Surely a blind girl would bring no trouble to them.
Roma and Tanit spent the next few weeks of the Junta much out of the way of the main areas. Tanit seemed nostalgic, visiting with old friends and even a sister. This woman was ancient, but not quite so much as Tanit. Her name was Sara and she cursed Tanit with every other breath for the misfortune Tanit had brought the family. But the curses were done in jest, with a deep love that Roma could hear in the woman’s voice no matter what words she used. It wasn’t until the last week of the Junta that Roma learned why Tanit seemed so nostalgic.
I’m dying, child.. Tanit coughed after saying the words. It was a painful sound, thick, deep, and cold. Roma sat beside her bed, the old crone’s gnarled fingers in her hands. Roma refused to believe the words, even though the smell of death surrounded her mentor like a heavy cloak. You’ve been worse, Tanit. The old woman laughed at that, a high, broken cackle that was cut short by another fit of coughing. This time, as the cough subsided, Roma couldn’t help but notice the metallic hint of blood in the air. You are right, child. I have been worse. But I’ve also been younger, heh. These bones are old and this skin is anxious to be rid of the mala sort it’s carried so long. Water, child. The glass is on the table. A bit to the right… there, yes.. Roma held the glass out with one hand, reaching for Tanit with the other. Tanit helped her guide the glass to her lips and took a long, slow drink. She sighed as she laid her head back against the pillow.
Where is Sara? Roma asked. If Tanit was truly dying, wouldn’t Sara want to be at her side? Heh. My sister loves me well enough, but we said our goodbyes when we visited her last. Sara is a terribly superstitious coward. She may love me, but she does fear my mala sort. No, I’m afraid you’re going to have to take it all yourself. I do hope you’re strong enough, heh. Roma almost laughed. What more could you do to me? I am the Ispi Girl, remember? And blind besides. I don’t even think the spirits want to come near me. That earned her another burst of laughter, followed by a stronger fit of coughing. Tanit didn’t speak again after that, nor did Roma.
Tanit passed away at an early hour before morning. Roma had been asleep, laid across the bed beside the old woman, holding her hand.
Attributes:
Physical Strength: 4
Intelligence:6
Speed:4
Leadership:2
Unarmed: 1
Melee Weapons: 2
Ranged Weapons: 1
Alignment: 0
RP Sample:
Deixar Anar
The room seemed empty with the bed gone. Roma could hear it in the way her voice echoed on the walls, could feel it in lack of things around her. She could cross the room from the door to the far wall with no obstructions. It was four large steps. The only things left now belonged to Roma. Her clothes and few personal belongings were bundled neatly at the foot of her pallet, two steps to the right of the door along the side wall. These things remained, and Tanit's walking staff. Roma had refused to allow the men to take it when they cleared the room. They'd cursed her, saying she was only holding on to bad luck. Her stark white eyes stared back, asking the question her mouth didn't need to voice.
What more could be done to me?
Tanit's body hadn't even grown cold before they took it. This was necessary, of course. The restless spirits were vigilant for opportunities and a vacant body was too tempting. It was removed, along with the bed and the rest of Roma's belongings, save the staff. She knew that somewhere, the body was being prepared, and might have already been burned. Sara had sent word that she'd come for Roma to take her to the funeral. It was for Sara, a stranger, that Roma waited for now. When the knock came at the door, Roma stood, stepped forward twice and turned left. She groped for the door and found it.
Benvinguda, Sara. Is that you?
It is, child. Sara's voice was painfully similar to Tanit's. Come, or we will be late.
The two navigated their way to a lower level of Junta Station in silence. Sara held Roma's right arm, leading her gently. The only sound was the tap, tap of the staff on the floor. When they reached their destination, Roma could hear only two other voices in the room.
Has no one else come? She asked Sara in a whisper.
I am Tanit's only family, child. My children and grandchildren never even knew her. The captain of our House ship is here, as is the captain of the ship that brought you to this Junta.
In truth, Roma wasn't sure what she'd expected. She had been surprised to learn that Tanit had a sister. Was it such a surprise then to realize there was no one else who truly cared? Roma felt a shiver run through her spine. Was this what her own funeral would be like?
The container that held Tanit's ashes was passed among them. Each held it for a short time. The custom was to send silent wishes with the dead, wishes for a peaceful rest. Roma had no way of knowing if this was what the others wished over Tanit's ashes, or if they simply gave thanks that the woman was gone. Roma took her turn, wishing with all her heart that Tanit found peace, then held the container out to Sara.
The woman took it with hands old and gnarled like her sister's. The room was silent. Roma felt the tears well in her eyes and spill over. As she wiped them away, she was startled to feel something pressed to her arm. She held her hand out, and the container was once again placed in her palms.
You were a daughter to her, Roma. She would have wanted you to send her away. Come.
Sara led Roma through the room and through a doorway. They now stood in the airlock room. Sara led Roma to a table that was bolted to the floor. The container shook as Roma lowered it, guided by Sara's hands, into a space on the table where it too was locked down. Roma removed the lid and clutched it to her chest as Sara guided her back out of the airlock room. The door closed behind them. A few moments later, the outer door opened and Tanit's ashes were pulled out into the vacuum of space. But all Roma could hear was the faint his of the doors closing once again.
Tanit was gone, her dust sent into the great ocean of space to ride the flux forever. In that instant, she was dissolved, made into nothing, yet part of all things. But Roma still could feel nothing but alone.
She fell to her knees then, the sobs coming unhindered. She could feel Sara's hands on her back and her arm, trying to coax her back up again. But Roma could not move, or did not want to, it didn't matter.
Come now, child. Tanit would not have wanted your tears wasted on her ashes. Now stand up, there's a good girl. Wipe your face, yes, that's it. I'll ask you something our mother once asked Tanit and I when we felt lost or heart broken. What do you do with a broken part?
Roma almost laughed. She took two deep breaths, then answered. You replace it.
Smart girl. And a broken arm?
You brace it.
Yes, that's right. And what about a broken heart?
Roma raised her head toward the woman. You face it.
