Atlantic Roleplay Community Boards

[Mai Ling]

---

Lady Mai Ling sat quietly at a writing desk on the balcony of the Isamu Embassy. She had steadily written notes of thanks each day since Lord Takeda’s memorial. The outpouring of affection and support in the loss of her father was overwhelming. As she finished penning the last note, a courier from Isamu entered. He bowed deeply, presenting a scroll wrapped in fine, lavender colored silk.

Recognizing the style of wrapping Mai laughed softly and asked the messenger, “Another letter from our Trade Minister?” She smiled as she unrolled the parchment and read:

Most Honorable Empress Lady Mai Ling,
I am pleased to inform you that another shipment of goods will be arriving at the Embassy within the week. Visitors to the island seem to be spreading word of our abundant raw materials and finely crafted goods. The people of our land are working diligently to fulfill the rise in demand. I trust the merchants at the Embassy are preparing their vendors for the forthcoming shipment.
Be safe and at peace.
Your Loyal Servant,
Kakeru Suzuki
Isamu Trade Minister

Mai pulled open the top drawer of the desk and removed a small bag of gold. She handed it to the courier, and sent him to eat and rest. Out of the corner of her eye, Mai caught sight of her father’s statue. She walked over to it and stood, gazing at his likeness. Mai reflected on how much she had changed -from the feisty, stubborn girl to the confident, even strong, young woman. Her father’s teachings had shaped her and prepared her for her station. Mai closed her eyes. She could almost feel his presence, hear his voice saying, “Well done.”
_________________
Mai Ling
Empress of Isamu