Imperial Treasurer

Shiro Ide, 3rd day of Winter Court 1197,

Seppun Ritisharu filed another tax report and rubbed her eyes. In another week she might be able to spend some time enjoying Winter Court, but that would have to wait. She still had to plan the Imperial Legion budget for 1198 as well as any number of minor issues.

“My lady, your visitors have arrived.” Her lady in waiting bowed low.

“Thank you Seppun Shira-san. Please inform them that I will be there presently.”

Visitors were the last thing she wanted at the moment, but social niceties were a requirement of this position. She harboured faint hope that the meeting would remain civil, or at the very least polite.

As Seppun Ritisharu entered the room, Yasuki Hiromi and Daidoji Masahina rose and bowed low to the Imperial Treasurer. “You may be seated. Can I offer you tea?”

Both women declined tea. Seppun Ritisharu sighed inwardly, this did not bode well.

“My lady Treasurer-sama, if it pleases you, I would like to begin today’s meeting with reports from the Daidoji Trading Council.” Daidoji Masahina opened a box beside her and removed several scrolls before starting on and extensive and listing of imports and exports. Ritisharu gestured and a clerk began furiously taking notes.

Yasuki Hiromi took advantage of a break in Masahina’s report to interject “It seems, Daidoji-sama that your profits took a distinct increase when you began to blockade Mantis ports.” She smiled sweetly and continued “Which seems…” She paused for effect “Fortuitous considering the losses you mentioned earlier in your report, but I am sure this is merely an error in the part of your clerks naturally.” Daidoji Masahina smiled thinly “I thank you Yasuki-sama for your insightful remarks.” Quickly continuing, Masahina finished the report and passed the documents to the Treasurer.

“With your permission Seppun-sama, I will begin the report from the Yasuki Merchant League.” The Seppun nodded her ascent. “The Yasuki and therefore the Crab have had a strong year in terms of Koku revenue but as usual most of it continues to be funneled into the Wall as well as lending aid to our Scorpion compatriots. It humbles the Yasuki that we can serve our Clan in any capacity.” She smiled at Daidoji Masahina who almost sighed as the Crab continued to labour the point. “I should also note that the Crab have also managed to turn a taxable profit without jepordising the Empress’ Peace”.

Daidoji Masahina could feel a headache coming on. Tea would have been nice, and there was another two hours of this.