Zaiba (ˈzɛːbə)

Zaiba is a tiny volcanic island in the Sabaen Archipelago, and is the northernmost possession of the Malikate of Saba. It has few permanent residents, and no permanent communities. The only structures on the island are a naval base used by Malikate warships, and the Manarat al-Tair, one of the lighthouses in the Ring of Light.

Merchant ships entering the Sabaen Archipelago from the north use the lighthouse on Zaiba to mark when they are crossing into the Malikate and subject to its laws. Some will choose to stop at the naval base on Zaiba to have their cargo inspected by customs agents there, as those who can display sealed containers marked with the Malikate's seal will find it faster to unload their goods in the busier ports to the south. They will also take this opportunity to trade with the sailors stationed at the base and the keepers of the Manarat al-Tair.

Like all the lighthouses of the Ring of Light, the Manarat al-Tair is inhabited by a small god and the priesthood that serves it. The god of the Manarat al-Tair manifests in the form of a great bird made of fire and light, who perches within the lantern room and can be observed far out at sea. In honor of their god, the keepers of the Manarat al-Tair have undertaken a special mission to care for the birds that frequently visit the lighthouse, and there are extensive facilities attached to the tower dedicated to the wellbeing of both wild and domestic birds. They are particularly known for training exceptional messenger pigeons. These birds are of such quality that you can whisper the name of a particular person to them, and they will seek that individual out no matter where they may be. These birds have drawn the interest of the Kendari Couriers, who have made several donations to the lighthouse in exchange for regular access to their dovecote.

Some naturalists have claimed that migrating birds particularly seek out the lighthouse at Zaiba, and during some times of year the island is completely covered in hundreds of birds. When the island has been visited by members of the Aethry race, they have reported feeling an immense sense of welcome and safety while near the lighthouse, and several Aethry have chosen to become part of the Manarat al-Tair's priesthood.

Geography

Zaiba is a oval-shaped island that measures nearly three miles long and two miles wide. The center of the island is the volcano named Jabal Al-Chidi. The mountain has a classic cone shape, and has not erupted in over a century, although occasional rumbles indicate it is not extinct. The slopes of Jabal Al-Chidi are covered in hardy grasses and shrubs capable of surviving with minimal access to fresh water, which is scarce on Zaiba. Birds are the most common animal life on the island, and the keepers of the lighthouse know how to turn the copious amounts of guano left behind into excellent fertilizer.

Type

Island

Location under

Sabaen Archipelago

Owning Organization

Qutra Muhafazah

Geographic Details

Location: Southeastern Region
Latitude: 13.01 degrees North
Longitude: 33.12 degrees East
Average Elevation: 167 ft
Highest Point: 3,940 ft (Jabal Al-Chidi)
Lowest Point: 0 ft
Area: 4.43 sq mi