Mei Ling

Mei Ling al-Osman, Tiegangese businesswoman of Jing ancestry, wife of Anthony al-Osman, a prominent local publican.

Photograph of Mei Ling behind the bar at the Blackfriars' Redux, taken in 1718 AN.

Biography

Mei Ling was born and raised in Tiegang, a small city state on the Apollonian continent. She is the daughter of a wealthy Jingdaoese merchant, Ling Ming, who had made a fortune trading exotic goods and spices from around the world. Her father was very strict and demanded a high level of education and accomplishment from his children, and Mei Ling was no exception. Her mother, Ling Fong, was closely involved in every aspect of her upbring, along with that of her siblings, a brother named Ling Chong and a sister named Ling Yan.

Mei Ling was an excellent student and excelled in her studies, where she received a thorough education from tutors hired by her wealthy merchant father. She excelled in her studies, particularly in the areas of mathematics and science, and had a natural talent for languages. She was fluent in Jingdaoese, Istvanistani, Babkhi, and several other regional dialects, and could also read and write in classical Apollonian.

In addition to her academic achievements, Mei Ling was also a talented musician and dancer. She spent many hours practicing her instruments and perfecting her skills, and was known for her beautiful singing voice and graceful movements.

As a child of a Jingdaoese family, she was taught the Tianchaodao, along with the history and culture of her people, as well as the etiquette and protocol that was expected of a member of the ruling class. She was a poised and confident young woman who carried herself with dignity and grace.

Despite her privileged upbringing, Mei Ling was not a spoiled or entitled young woman. She was kind, compassionate, and humble, and always put the needs of others ahead of her own. She was known for her generosity and willingness to help those in need, and was well-respected and admired by all who knew her.

After completing her education, Mei Ling joined the family business and proved to be a highly competent and successful merchant. She was savvy and business-minded, and was able to expand the family's operations and increase their profits. She was also highly involved in the community, and regularly donated to charitable causes and organisations.

It was at one of these charitable events that Mei Ling first met Anthony al-Osman. Despite coming from very different backgrounds, they quickly hit it off and began a courtship. Anthony, who was still trying to restore his family's reputation after being expelled from military academy and falling into personal disgrace, was determined to win Mei Ling's hand in marriage.

That Mei had been even prepared to countenance the advances made by Anthony had been a surprise to many of her acquaintance. Mei Ling was known for her beauty and charm, and was admired by many suitors. Moreover, she had no interest in settling for a husband who did not meet her high standards. She was determined to marry a man who was intelligent, successful, and kind, and she was not afraid to reject any potential partners who did not meet her criteria. Anthony was at this stage hardly a slender youth, and had been considered, for most of his life, to be something of a dullard.

Indeed, when Anthony al-Osman first approached Mei Ling, she was initially sceptical. She had heard of his family's scandalous history, and was not sure if he was the right man for her. But as she got to know Anthony better, she began to see his potential. She admired his determination and hard work, and was impressed by his growing success in the pub business. She also appreciated his kindness and generosity, and the way he always put others before himself.

Despite her father's initial opposition, Mei Ling eventually agreed to marry Anthony. She saw it as an opportunity to help him restore his family's reputation, and to build a successful and happy life together. She threw herself into the role of a wife and helpmate, and worked hard to support her husband in his endeavours. She also took an active interest in the Blackfriars' Redux, and helped Anthony to run the pub and make it a success.

Over the years, Mei Ling and Anthony have built a strong and loving relationship. They have had their ups and downs, but they have always stuck together and supported each other. Mei Ling has been a constant source of strength and inspiration for Anthony, and has helped him to overcome many challenges and difficulties. She has also been a loving and devoted mother to their four children, and has worked hard to provide them with the best possible upbringing.

Today, Mei Ling is a respected and admired figure in Tiegang society. She is known for her intelligence, charm, and generosity, and is admired for her ability to balance her many roles as a wife, mother, and businesswoman. She is also an active member of the community, and often volunteers her time and resources to help those in need.

Independent business ventures

Mei Ling's Jade Lotus Harem Club venture was a notable moment in her life as a successful businesswoman. Established in 1717 AN, the club quickly gained a reputation as a luxurious and exclusive entertainment destination for wealthy patrons. With her keen eye for detail and her understanding of the desires of her clients, Mei Ling was able to create a luxurious and decadent atmosphere within the club.

The Jade Lotus Harem Club offered a range of entertainment options, from music and dance to gaming and socialising. The club's highlight, however, was its harem of highly trained and beautiful courtesans, who were available for the entertainment of guests. Despite the potential controversy surrounding such a venture, Mei Ling's impeccable reputation and her ability to keep the club's dealings discreet helped to keep the business running smoothly.

However, Mei Ling's success was not without its challenges. There were those who disapproved of the nature of the club, and there were also the inevitable rivalries and conflicts that arose in the competitive world of high-end entertainment. Nevertheless, Mei Ling's cunning and her determination to maintain the high standards of the Jade Lotus Harem Club kept her business thriving and cemented her reputation as a successful and accomplished entrepreneur.

Political career

By virtue of these carefully wrought connections, Mei Ling became a trusted advisor to the government, seen regularly in attendance at the Palace of the Consul during the reign of André Vales.

Issue

With Anthony al-Osman:

• Ahmed (1693)
• Fatima (1695)
• Ali (1697)
• Zara (1699)

Awards and titles

• Dame Commander of the Order of the Order of the Imperial Blood (1727 AN)