I’ve had this story in my mind for eight years.

In the early 13th century, a child growing up among the scholars of Bayt al-Hikma in Baghdad feels painfully ignorant compared to them. One day, he hears the saying: “Seek knowledge even if it is in China.” These words inspire him and he leaves to find knowledge in China.

Along the way, he passes through the Artuqid Empire, where he witnesses the works of al-Jazari, the early examples of robotics. Later, he meets Ibn al-Baytar and learns botany from him. He then encounters Zakariya al-Qazwini, even inspiring him to write Aja’ib al-Makhluqat (The Wonders of Creation).

Throughout his travels, he learns much and teaches others what he has learned.

Eventually, he visits Razia Sultan, the Turkish woman ruler of Delhi. His journey lasts for decades, taking him all the way to China.

It is the story of a lifelong journey of knowledge and discovery. Researching for this story gives me with endless inspiration.