It is not your place to question the Great Intelligence, who exists beyond the ability of mere mortals to fully comprehend. Simply do as the GI instructs, and they will lead you to enlightenment.

— Zayd Fana

 
 
Zayd has an unusual position in the Coop, being both highly respected and disliked by most others. As one of the Minds of the Great Intelligence, people turn to him for spiritual and religious guidance. However, he often has an unpleasant demeanour and can be quite demanding, exercising a religious "authority" over others.
 
People respect Zayd for his knowledge in topics such as philosophy, biology, and even geology, and they accept his guidance and instruction in religious matters, even though they know he is entirely self-taught. They believe his knowledge comes directly from the Great Intelligence, even though other Minds they encounter as the Coop travels Taebur often say contradictory things. Zayd sees no contradiction in these occasions. The GI simply requires different things of the Coop than of other places.
 
On top of his connection to the Great Intelligence, some of Zayd's influence comes from the fact that his sister, Issa Fana is a member of the Executive Council, although he would argue that it is his influence that has made her so respected on the council. At any rate, most Shareholders like Issa a great deal more than Zayd, and many give Zayd more deference so as not to offend Issa.
 
Unlike his sister, Zayd does not have many shares, owning only two alpacas that are now getting on in years. He believes that as a Mind, he is beyond such petty concerns. However, he does make a small amount of money growing a small amount of herbs that he carries with him. The climate of the region makes growing these herbs very difficult, so he can only produce a very limited amount. However, the rarity of these herbs means he can charge a considerable amount when selling them.