The New Winds

Later that night, Matsu Qiang paid a visit to the temple.

"I'd like to make a donation," the young Lion said to the first monk he could find. He held up a small pouch full of coins.

((Eichiro is not present in this scene.))

"Certainly, samurai-sama" The monk replies, "is there any specific dedication you wish to make?"

"Yes, in fact," the Lion replied. "I... I was hoping it might be possible for the monks here to pray every night for the soul of my departed sister, Matsu Meilin. She... she was a great inspiration to me."

Matsu Qiang (no, Matsu Tsuyoshi now, he reminded himself) struggled to keep his face impassive as he handed over the coins and bowed respectfully.

((Eichiro is not present in this scene.))

The monk accepts the coins, listening carefully as the request is made and returns the bow appropriately. "Certainly, samurai-sama. Was Samurai-sama's sister a devotee to Lady Sun? This will help us to direct our prayers appropriately."

"We usually paid our respects at the Temple of Ancestors," Tsuyoshi admitted. "But I hope that will not be a problem? It's important to me to make an offering here in Tsuma, and we all stand under Lady Sun, after all."

((Eichiro is not present in this scene.))

"Certainly not, Samurai-sama. Lady Sun sees all who serve her children, please forgive this one's curiosity." The monk bows again, "Would you join us in the first of the prayers in Samurai-sama's sisters honor?"