Episode 16: Westward

 The Companions, now back together, returns to Yan Lin to plead for help finding a path westward in the hopes of finding Enji. Taqqiq mentions he had met Captain Rishi, and Rishi says he could take the group with him on his boat, either to Port Yakoya or up the channel to Gaoling. The former would require the team to travel through the Foggy Swamp into the desert, while the latter would demand passage over the Earth Kingdom's southern mountains.The group chose to go to Port Yakoya, where they might better resupply, and then stop by Mayu's home in the Foggy Swamp.

On the ship, while the gang helps out with chores, etc, the group is attacked by pirates.Rishi explains that this is common, and the pirates can often by bought off with simple trade goods and turning a rough cheek. The Companions decide to end the pirates' rule: Taqqiq bends the ship away, stranding some of their boarding party, and Kensaya intimidates them into not messing with the ship's guests.

When the captain becomes interested in Amu's trove of books, maps, and astrology baubles, Taqqiq throws a map to him and tries to pacify the captain's greed. The pirates back off, taking a little less stuff than they bargain for but also some of Amu's maps.

Later, Captain Rishi chastised Kensaya's brashness. His actions could have jeopardized the whole crew and the captain worries about the repercussions. Taqqiq, however, comforts Kensaya, telling him that he protected the ship and was able to hold back his often stronger emotions.

Meanwhile, Po asks Mayu about his experiences within the Spirit World.Mayu explains his strange journey and tells him about Leyni.

Eventually the ship makes port in Yakoya. The group disembarks and, while Po goes shopping, most of the Companions assist Amu in setting up some of his stuff with the local guild of erudite scholars, craftsmen, etc. Po arranges for new threads from a local tailor and has great success prattling on about the pirate attack. The tailor mentions an apprentice named Ryobi in Omashu.

The gang reunites in the Southern Branch Moon Peach Inn, discussing their next steps forward. They forego looking for a desert guide now, choosing to first visit Mayu's family (and look for Leyni) in the Foggy Swamp