Opatu

The Opatu people are the pulse of Msna, their lives deeply interwoven with the ebb and flow of the sea. They have been renowned seafarers and skilled fishermen for countless generations, drawing sustenance from the bountiful Arlokian waters and trading their catch and sea-derived goods, such as sea silk textiles and ornate driftwood and whalebone carvings, in the thriving markets of Kodimane and Diffook. Their connection to the sea is further echoed in captivating songs and tales of epic voyages which speak of the sea, not to forget their cuisine - heavy on seafood and complemented by marsh plants and sea berries.
Perhaps the greatest strength of the Opatu in modern times lies in their ability to navigate the tumultuous waters of diplomacy - of all the cultural groups within the Band of Reeds, they are by far the most cosmopolitan, deeply engaged with the non-indigenous peoples of Arlok, and the hefty economies within the continent of Rela. Their exceptional skills in negotiation, honed over centuries, have earned them sufficient respect that they often serve as intermediaries in intertribal and even international disputes, including Farang-occupied territories. They maintain strong, peaceful diplomatic ties, ensuring the stability and prosperity of Msna, and a robust exchange exists between their nation and the Relan state of Qa, where Msna's exports of pelts and medicinal herbs find a receptive market, and in turn, valuable resources like copper and nickel enrich their tribes.
While far more forward-looking in nature than other groups native to Arlok, the Opatu remain deeply rooted in tradition. They observe The Great Path of Root & River (Áɦkumátúwo), with a specific focus around Sedna, the Sea Mother, whose being forms the heart of their society. Even in the midst of bustling cities like Kodimane, the sacred is never far - ceremonies honoring the sea and the ancestors are as much a part of daily life as trade and negotiation.