Shurei Hong, who’s been assigned to the post of co-governor of Sa Province is currently on route to the place of her assignment. But at the moment, she is faced with a serious but familiar problem that could have a profound effect on her future and her dreams. He said I, I'm marrying a son of the Sa Clan?!
An Accidental Resemblance
What's the matter, korin? Your music sounds distracted Y-You can tell? I feel like having some fruit now. Okay, I'll bring some. Are you worrying about the governor's marriage into the Sa Clan? I was just thinking, I’d heard she's around my age, but it's political, right? those happen quite often. That’s true, but this entire marriage business seems far too rush and forceful for my taste. Not only have they not asked her, they haven't even sought her family's consent. That's because she's the most cherished Lady of the Hong Clan. If approached directly the Hong Clan would not choose the deal with the Sa Clan. She's a cherished lady? They think only Members of the Royal family or the Ran Clan would be worth her match . Given their extreme pride, the Hong Clan wouldn’t even consider a Sa proposal. Getting acceptance after the fact is the only way the Sa Clan would have a chance. The Hong family name really does have value. And of course, Even the Hong Clan isn't likely to demand her return after she's done "that" with someone. According to rumors, that noblewoman is very beautiful, proud,... and ladylike. She's said to be very much the highborn lady, so if something like that were to happen, they would surely give in. No one will take her in marriage Even if she did return. Wow... highborn lady, huh? True, in a way. Korin, she’s pretending to be me right now, and she’s much more well-bred and ladylike than I am. But I prefer you much more than some hotty and highborn lady of the Hong clan. Thank you very much, young master . May I ask you? Yes? What are you defending yourself against so strongly? You always seem very timid when it comes to falling in love. If I try to get closer to you, you pretend you don't notice and hide your heart away behind strong armor. That's why you insist on continuing to call me young Master, isn’t it? Were you rejected by some cruel man, perhaps? No! it’s, It's just...! Please don't forget. Don't forget that I love you, Shurei. I'm just not prepared for it. Why do you say that? Right now, I have too much going on to devote my heart to love. Are you afraid of falling in love? To be honest, I am a little . We're very similar then . I'm also afraid. You’re What?! But young Master, you go around making advances towards every beautiful woman you ever see! I'm can do it because it’s just a game. But if I should find that someone special, I'll no longer be able to hesitate. Korin. Will you play your erhu for me again, please? sure. The Little Whirlwind, it’s been such a long time since we last met. back then I really liked how you could kill so coldly and calmly with that pretty face of yours. Do you have any idea how proud I was to have you all to myself? Seems You haven't changed a bit over the years, OI' Meisho Now, Quit being such an idiot and scram. You're nothing but an eyesore, one I might kill. Oh, how low the son of a wealthy merchant family has fallen. Now You're a common thug. Even Though I was only a kid, I never forgot the face of the guy who came to our home claiming to be a famous painter. It was Your face bastard ! Our old leader's one and only mistaking in life was deciding on a whim not to kill you when we broke in to your house . And all because one child was spared, the Murderous Blades were wiped out. You know My one and only mistake, it was that I didn’t chase you to the end of the earth and the depth of hell and kill you after you escaped. Go ahead and state your business here. I wouldn't mind getting that over with and finishing things off right now, you know. I just came to see your faces today. Listen. Unlike our previous boss, I use what I have up here. Why don’t you Come to Kinka and see for yourself. You'll understand what I mean then. Be sure to have a grave and casket ready for yourself. Unlike a certain someone, I'm a nice guy, but I'm not so kind and helpful as to prepare those for you. I'll see that they're prepared. However, they'll be for you. Because unlike a certain someone, I'm considerate. Geeze, What a rotten guy to run into. Let's go. I'll leave and treat you to a cup of Gan Lu tea. I'll let you treat me to anything but Gan Lu tea. Hey, Why's the…? Oh, of course I get it, Gan Lu tea is something you'd rather have Princess make for you. I would just prefer to save the best for last, that’s all it is. Yeah? Well, I don't leave things for later. I like to go right after it. I have No doubt. Korin, I have a question . Yes? We'll be reaching Kinka soon. Once we get there, I was wondering if you would tell me your real name. Don’t look so surprised , The name Korin doesn't suit you. It's too cute. Well geeze, I'm so sorry for apparently not being cute enough! A more dignified name would suit you better. Young Master! Korin. Good night and sleep well , Korin. When I get to Kinka, I'll be able to see everyone. I just have to endure this a little longer. We'll be in Kinka soon, won’t we? I asked you to help me with my studies on route, but I seem to be struggling. I'm so sorry. If that wasn’t bad enough , I'm a lot older than you. Are you hoping to become an official someday, Mr. Kokujun? It’s sort of been a dream of mine that I might pass the National examinations one day and become like Great Uncle Enjun. I figured that if I could have the boy who passed as Jogen at age thirteen assist me with my studies, it might help me out of it, and give me an edge. I'm sorry for asking such a strange favor of you. Not at all, but , um... great uncle Enjun you say, are you talking about Advisor Sa who passed away recently?? Yes! That’s right, Great Uncle was an incredible person. He’s what you would call a genius. Great Uncle was the pride of the Sa Clan, and I've always admired him. But You've already studied quite a lot, haven't you? You seem to have a good understanding of all the important fundamentals. Only because I’ve been doing it for years. But I'm nothing in comparison with your knowledge. You do have a point. You're not a genius, after all. Eigetsu! How could you! No, it's fine, he’s only telling the truth. But the thing is, I'm not a genius either. Nonsense , if anyone is a genius , you are. I studied with all of my heart. I didn’t have any time or money, so last winter’s exam was gonna be my first and final attempt at passing it, I sometimes had trouble absorbing what I was studying, so I took my time. I'd memorize material by transcribing it over and over until I was satisfied. I didn't want to waste money on paper, so in the wintertime, I'd write in the temple garden with a stick. During other seasons, I'd write on the paths between rice fields till I can write everything from memory. But I still lacked confidence. I had to put in that much work just in order to pass. So then , am I really a genius? I'm sorry. I really am pathetic, aren't I? And I'm almost eighteen years old. Please don’t apologize. I'm not saying you’re to blame or anything . it may have sounded impertinent before, but I just wanted you to realize that even if you are not a genius, there are ways to make up for it. What? Kill the two kids? Yes. It's an order from the person who hired us. Weren't we gonna make the girl from the Hong Clan into Sakujun's wife or something ? Apparently that girl is actually a fake. A fake?! You’re trying to tell me that some ordinary girl made an total fool outta me?! I won't forgive them! I'm gonna kill those brats with my own two hands. Do whatever you wish with them, But I’m afraid it appears that you're going to have to wait a bit before that . First , We’re going to put them both to good use before killing them. Good use? Never mind that for now, Something interesting has come into our possession. Turn that flat rock over and take a close look. what... it's the governor's seal! The other one's a part of the charm. I'm having my men search for the rest of the pieces now. The seal fragment was found inside a steamed bun. The charm piece was stuck to a gold chamber pot as decoration. A chamber pot? I doubt they ever expected us to break open every single steamed bun that came to kinka. Then As long as we have these. we have no need for the governors. All we need to do now is sit and wait for their arrival. yeah. But in that case, where'd the real girl from the Hong Clan get to? Don't worry about her, She'll come here on her own, to recover the seal and charm if nothing else. Now, all that remains is the preparation of a room for her wedding night with Lord Sakujun. But where is that idiot Sakujun, anyway? He says he's too afraid to stay with the Murderous Blades, so we’ve already arranged for a separate residence for him. Damn it. you'd never imagine he was my younger brother. He's such a coward but never mind. You know something , Meisho. Why don't you work for me instead of Grandfather? Are you planning to push Lord Chusho aside? how about it? I'll consider it and the prospects it holds for the future. Go on, take a look. We’ve reached the city of Kinka. So this is it. We’re finally here.
The Story of Saiunkoku
What's the matter? Isn’t this supposed to be the center of commerce in Sa Province? Yes, That's right. Something's wrong here. Why does this town feel so lifeless ? What would you do now? We’ve reached Kinka, as promised. Would you like to come with me to where I'll be staying? No, I have a number of places I need to go. When I'm finished with my business I'll come to say my goodbyes. What inn will you be staying at? Actually I won’t be staying at any of the inns, My family has a residence here, Just ask anyone where the Chrysanthemum Residence is, and they'll direct you. Yes, Very well. Korin. Yes, What is it? Nothing. It’s Just I'd feel much better if you wouldn't be so cold toward me. Young Master! You haven’t even apologized to me! I won't apologize, because frankly I don't believe I’ve done anything wrong. I wonder why. Why does Seeing this man remind me of Ryuki. Is that An accidental resemblance? No, they're not at all alike. You said the Chrysanthemum Residence, right? I should be able to come by within the day. I'll be waiting for you. Until then. I'll be waiting for you. They've got seriously ill-bred thugs on patrol here. They’re obviously not protecting the town. They're just making the entire atmosphere worse. On top of that, they're out in such numbers. It feels like we're all being watched. Ah, thank goodness. I finally arrived. They're not the Kinka's Merchants Guild for nothing. This place is huge. On the other hand it's very quiet around here. Something's not right. I should gather some information first. oh, dear I'm so sorry! Pardon me, Young lady, might you be a visitor to the town? Is this your first time in Kinka? Are you here looking for work in the Merchants Guild? well, I …Um...! He’s wearing some pretty unusual items that the average person would have trouble getting. Are you associated with the Merchants Guild? My, my. You're very perceptive indeed. Likewise, I notice that you carry a special token with you. It bears the luminous seven colored paint. Who are you and How do you know that? The situation is grim, The Murderous Blades have taken completely control of the Merchants' capital of Kinka. So Is this man the Kinka Special District leader of the Merchants Guild? By the way, just so you know, the Guild Hall we were at has been a den of thieves for some time. What do you mean? A few months ago, the Murderous Blades suddenly came to town en masse. They were most ingenious. Even though they'd forced their way into town, they made a point, not to go looting and burning. Meisho, the man who called himself their leader, made a formal declaration to the people if they would accept them openly , then his men would do no harm. And the mayor of Kinka was willing to agree to those conditions ? He made the decision to put the people's lives first. The Murderous Blades have not been reckless in their command. However, they made certain everyone was clear about who was in control, on top of that, they’ve been increasingly putting psychological pressure on the town’s people. They've locked up the mayor, and have assigned their men to patrol the town. They’ve also hinted that they may have the backing of the Sa Clan...! The Sa? Merchants were drawn in by the prospect of being associated with the Sa Clan, and one after another, began to support them. On the surface, the Merchants Guild does as well. It’s only natural, We're merchants. We never stop calculating and weighing profits and losses. depending on the circumstances, we'll become anyone's ally. This is it, the moment of reckoning. It's my first job as governor. I have to get the Merchants Guild on our side no matter what. If I can't do that, we’ll have no chance when facing the Murderous Blades or the Sa Clan. Please state your conditions for assisting me. What will I need to do in order to get you to mobilize the mercenaries of Merchants Guild? In that case, please show us the cards you’re having in your hand. After taking into consideration both your cards and our conditions, if we determine you have an eighty percent chance of success, then you’ll have the support of the guild. However you should first know that According to our sources, the Murderous Blades have already managed to obtain the seal and charm of the governor. As such those two things will be of no use in these negotiations . What you’re saying is not possible. They're fakes. What makes you say they must be fakes? Truthfully, The governor's seal and charm should arrive in Kinka about the same time as you do. Even without any more information, you'll know them the instant you see them. I will leave them somewhere very safe where there’s chance that any one will be able to steal them. That's what His Majesty the King said. I think we can believe his word. So, where exactly are the seal and charm then? Well... I don't know yet. What? I will find them, without fail. I don't know, if it was solely up to us, We would never use such a foolish and irresponsible method ourselves . but how do you intend to find them? So this must be the town of Kinka? um… Show us your pass token , sir. My pass token? oh, right, of course, let’s see…where did I put it? Hey! You're holding up the line! Hurry up! This is a new experience for me, I've never been told to hurry up before in my entire life. Now that you mention it, It could be fun to have to hurry up for once! Aha. So that’s where it was. Come on! Honestly , Causing so much trouble. The Twin Dragons?! My lord, then You're a member of the Ran Clan?! Now to play a melody to celebrate my arrival in Kinka? That awful flute music! Only one man plays like this , he must be lord Ryuren Ran. Big brother! I will find the governor's seal and charm before the end of the day. Furthermore, lieutenant governors, Ensei Ro is coming , he is traveling with Seiran Si, the officer signed to the governors, he wears a precious sword giving by His Majesty himself, and it has a higher rank than even the general of Sa Province They are both on their way, along with the other governor, Eigetsu To, all of them will be arriving in Kinka shortly. Well now, that’s all very interesting , but are those all the cards you currently have up your sleeves? No. I can’t lose no matter what. If I lose here, we don't stand a chance. I will do whatever it takes to win this fight. The last card I have... is my own life! If it should come to that, I’m willing to offer my own life as a bargaining chip. You’re meaning? Losing my life here in Sa Province would be a great insult to the entire Hong clan. The Sa Clan cannot kill a lady of the direct line of the Hong Clan. The backlash will be too severe , they can’t afford that. And that's why my life is valuable There is no guarantee in your final card. We won't really know how the Hong Clan will react until that time actually comes. But sir...! We will give you our conditions now. Get rid of the leader of the Murderous Blades as well as taking care of all his senior officers. If you promise you can do that, then (I intend) will promise to send our elite troops to join you and assist you. I can see the value in that strong spirit of yours. Thank you sir! Governor Hong. Yes! Can you promise that you will not betray the hopes of the people of Sa Province? Yes. At last, We finally reached Kinka. I know. Mister Kokujun? we've been waiting. Welcome to humble Kinka city, Governor To and of course welcome to the young lady imposter as well. Shall we arrange a room for you at the end for the night? No, thank you. It’s all been taken care of, I'll be staying at the residence of the son of the Rin family. Um, is something wrong? A few days ago, the entire Rin family was slaughtered by the Murderous Blades. As far as we can tell, There were no survivors. But How can that, How can that be? Then, who is that man? Who in the world... could he be?
Next Episode
I finally reached Kinka, where I promised to meet up with Seiran, Ensei, Korin, and Eigetsu. But what's worrying me most is Senya Rin's identity. Could it be that I was traveling with someone very dangerous?!
But at the moment, she is faced with a serious but familiar problem that could have a profound effect on her future and her dreams.
He said I, I'm marrying a son of the Sa Clan?!
An Accidental Resemblance
What's the matter, korin? Your music sounds distracted
Y-You can tell?
I feel like having some fruit now.
Okay, I'll bring some.
Are you worrying about the governor's marriage into the Sa Clan?
I was just thinking, I’d heard she's around my age, but it's political, right?
those happen quite often.
That’s true, but this entire marriage business seems far too rush and forceful for my taste.
Not only have they not asked her, they haven't even sought her family's consent.
That's because she's the most cherished Lady of the Hong Clan.
If approached directly the Hong Clan would not choose the deal with the Sa Clan.
She's a cherished lady?
They think only Members of the Royal family or the Ran Clan would be worth her match .
Given their extreme pride, the Hong Clan wouldn’t even consider a Sa proposal.
Getting acceptance after the fact is the only way the Sa Clan would have a chance.
The Hong family name really does have value.
And of course, Even the Hong Clan isn't likely to demand her return after she's done "that" with someone.
According to rumors, that noblewoman is very beautiful, proud,... and ladylike.
She's said to be very much the highborn lady, so if something like that were to happen, they would surely give in.
No one will take her in marriage Even if she did return.
Wow... highborn lady, huh?
True, in a way. Korin, she’s pretending to be me right now, and she’s much more well-bred and ladylike than I am.
But I prefer you much more than some hotty and highborn lady of the Hong clan.
Thank you very much, young master .
May I ask you?
Yes?
What are you defending yourself against so strongly?
You always seem very timid when it comes to falling in love.
If I try to get closer to you, you pretend you don't notice and hide your heart away behind strong armor.
That's why you insist on continuing to call me young Master, isn’t it?
Were you rejected by some cruel man, perhaps?
No! it’s, It's just...!
Please don't forget. Don't forget that I love you, Shurei.
I'm just not prepared for it.
Why do you say that?
Right now, I have too much going on to devote my heart to love.
Are you afraid of falling in love?
To be honest, I am a little .
We're very similar then .
I'm also afraid.
You’re What?!
But young Master, you go around making advances towards every beautiful woman you ever see!
I'm can do it because it’s just a game.
But if I should find that someone special, I'll no longer be able to hesitate.
Korin.
Will you play your erhu for me again, please?
sure.
The Little Whirlwind, it’s been such a long time since we last met.
back then I really liked how you could kill so coldly and calmly with that pretty face of yours.
Do you have any idea how proud I was to have you all to myself?
Seems You haven't changed a bit over the years, OI' Meisho
Now, Quit being such an idiot and scram.
You're nothing but an eyesore, one I might kill.
Oh, how low the son of a wealthy merchant family has fallen.
Now You're a common thug.
Even Though I was only a kid, I never forgot the face of the guy who came to our home claiming to be a famous painter.
It was Your face bastard !
Our old leader's one and only mistaking in life was deciding on a whim not to kill you when we broke in to your house .
And all because one child was spared, the Murderous Blades were wiped out.
You know My one and only mistake, it was that I didn’t chase you to the end of the earth and the depth of hell and kill you after you escaped.
Go ahead and state your business here.
I wouldn't mind getting that over with and finishing things off right now, you know.
I just came to see your faces today. Listen.
Unlike our previous boss, I use what I have up here.
Why don’t you Come to Kinka and see for yourself.
You'll understand what I mean then.
Be sure to have a grave and casket ready for yourself.
Unlike a certain someone, I'm a nice guy, but I'm not so kind and helpful as to prepare those for you.
I'll see that they're prepared.
However, they'll be for you.
Because unlike a certain someone, I'm considerate.
Geeze, What a rotten guy to run into.
Let's go. I'll leave and treat you to a cup of Gan Lu tea.
I'll let you treat me to anything but Gan Lu tea.
Hey, Why's the…? Oh, of course I get it, Gan Lu tea is something you'd rather have Princess make for you.
I would just prefer to save the best for last, that’s all it is.
Yeah? Well, I don't leave things for later. I like to go right after it.
I have No doubt.
Korin, I have a question .
Yes?
We'll be reaching Kinka soon.
Once we get there, I was wondering if you would tell me your real name.
Don’t look so surprised , The name Korin doesn't suit you. It's too cute.
Well geeze, I'm so sorry for apparently not being cute enough!
A more dignified name would suit you better.
Young Master!
Korin.
Good night and sleep well , Korin.
When I get to Kinka, I'll be able to see everyone.
I just have to endure this a little longer.
We'll be in Kinka soon, won’t we?
I asked you to help me with my studies on route, but I seem to be struggling.
I'm so sorry. If that wasn’t bad enough , I'm a lot older than you.
Are you hoping to become an official someday, Mr. Kokujun?
It’s sort of been a dream of mine that I might pass the National examinations one day and become like Great Uncle Enjun.
I figured that if I could have the boy who passed as Jogen at age thirteen assist me with my studies, it might help me out of it, and give me an edge.
I'm sorry for asking such a strange favor of you.
Not at all, but , um... great uncle Enjun you say, are you talking about Advisor Sa who passed away recently??
Yes! That’s right, Great Uncle was an incredible person.
He’s what you would call a genius.
Great Uncle was the pride of the Sa Clan, and I've always admired him.
But You've already studied quite a lot, haven't you?
You seem to have a good understanding of all the important fundamentals.
Only because I’ve been doing it for years.
But I'm nothing in comparison with your knowledge.
You do have a point.
You're not a genius, after all.
Eigetsu! How could you!
No, it's fine, he’s only telling the truth.
But the thing is, I'm not a genius either.
Nonsense , if anyone is a genius , you are.
I studied with all of my heart.
I didn’t have any time or money, so last winter’s exam was gonna be my first and final attempt at passing it,
I sometimes had trouble absorbing what I was studying, so I took my time.
I'd memorize material by transcribing it over and over until I was satisfied.
I didn't want to waste money on paper, so in the wintertime, I'd write in the temple garden with a stick.
During other seasons, I'd write on the paths between rice fields till I can write everything from memory.
But I still lacked confidence.
I had to put in that much work just in order to pass. So then , am I really a genius?
I'm sorry. I really am pathetic, aren't I?
And I'm almost eighteen years old.
Please don’t apologize.
I'm not saying you’re to blame or anything .
it may have sounded impertinent before, but I just wanted you to realize that even if you are not a genius, there are ways to make up for it.
What? Kill the two kids?
Yes. It's an order from the person who hired us.
Weren't we gonna make the girl from the Hong Clan into Sakujun's wife or something ?
Apparently that girl is actually a fake.
A fake?!
You’re trying to tell me that some ordinary girl made an total fool outta me?!
I won't forgive them!
I'm gonna kill those brats with my own two hands.
Do whatever you wish with them, But I’m afraid it appears that you're going to have to wait a bit before that .
First , We’re going to put them both to good use before killing them.
Good use?
Never mind that for now, Something interesting has come into our possession.
Turn that flat rock over and take a close look.
what... it's the governor's seal!
The other one's a part of the charm.
I'm having my men search for the rest of the pieces now.
The seal fragment was found inside a steamed bun.
The charm piece was stuck to a gold chamber pot as decoration.
A chamber pot?
I doubt they ever expected us to break open every single steamed bun that came to kinka.
Then As long as we have these.
we have no need for the governors.
All we need to do now is sit and wait for their arrival.
yeah.
But in that case, where'd the real girl from the Hong Clan get to?
Don't worry about her, She'll come here on her own, to recover the seal and charm if nothing else.
Now, all that remains is the preparation of a room for her wedding night with Lord Sakujun.
But where is that idiot Sakujun, anyway?
He says he's too afraid to stay with the Murderous Blades, so we’ve already arranged for a separate residence for him.
Damn it. you'd never imagine he was my younger brother. He's such a coward but never mind.
You know something , Meisho.
Why don't you work for me instead of Grandfather?
Are you planning to push Lord Chusho aside?
how about it?
I'll consider it and the prospects it holds for the future.
Go on, take a look.
We’ve reached the city of Kinka.
So this is it. We’re finally here.
The Story of Saiunkoku
What's the matter?
Isn’t this supposed to be the center of commerce in Sa Province?
Yes, That's right.
Something's wrong here.
Why does this town feel so lifeless ?
What would you do now?
We’ve reached Kinka, as promised.
Would you like to come with me to where I'll be staying?
No, I have a number of places I need to go.
When I'm finished with my business I'll come to say my goodbyes.
What inn will you be staying at?
Actually I won’t be staying at any of the inns, My family has a residence here, Just ask anyone where the Chrysanthemum Residence is, and they'll direct you.
Yes, Very well.
Korin.
Yes, What is it?
Nothing. It’s Just I'd feel much better if you wouldn't be so cold toward me.
Young Master! You haven’t even apologized to me!
I won't apologize, because frankly I don't believe I’ve done anything wrong.
I wonder why. Why does Seeing this man remind me of Ryuki.
Is that An accidental resemblance?
No, they're not at all alike.
You said the Chrysanthemum Residence, right?
I should be able to come by within the day.
I'll be waiting for you.
Until then.
I'll be waiting for you.
They've got seriously ill-bred thugs on patrol here.
They’re obviously not protecting the town.
They're just making the entire atmosphere worse.
On top of that, they're out in such numbers.
It feels like we're all being watched.
Ah, thank goodness.
I finally arrived.
They're not the Kinka's Merchants Guild for nothing. This place is huge.
On the other hand it's very quiet around here.
Something's not right.
I should gather some information first.
oh, dear I'm so sorry!
Pardon me, Young lady, might you be a visitor to the town?
Is this your first time in Kinka?
Are you here looking for work in the Merchants Guild?
well, I …Um...!
He’s wearing some pretty unusual items that the average person would have trouble getting.
Are you associated with the Merchants Guild?
My, my. You're very perceptive indeed.
Likewise, I notice that you carry a special token with you.
It bears the luminous seven colored paint.
Who are you and How do you know that?
The situation is grim, The Murderous Blades have taken completely control of the Merchants' capital of Kinka.
So Is this man the Kinka Special District leader of the Merchants Guild?
By the way, just so you know, the Guild Hall we were at has been a den of thieves for some time.
What do you mean?
A few months ago, the Murderous Blades suddenly came to town en masse.
They were most ingenious.
Even though they'd forced their way into town, they made a point, not to go looting and burning.
Meisho, the man who called himself their leader, made a formal declaration to the people if they would accept them openly , then his men would do no harm.
And the mayor of Kinka was willing to agree to those conditions ?
He made the decision to put the people's lives first.
The Murderous Blades have not been reckless in their command.
However, they made certain everyone was clear about who was in control, on top of that, they’ve been increasingly putting psychological pressure on the town’s people.
They've locked up the mayor, and have assigned their men to patrol the town.
They’ve also hinted that they may have the backing of the Sa Clan...!
The Sa?
Merchants were drawn in by the prospect of being associated with the Sa Clan, and one after another, began to support them.
On the surface, the Merchants Guild does as well.
It’s only natural, We're merchants.
We never stop calculating and weighing profits and losses.
depending on the circumstances, we'll become anyone's ally.
This is it, the moment of reckoning.
It's my first job as governor.
I have to get the Merchants Guild on our side no matter what.
If I can't do that, we’ll have no chance when facing the Murderous Blades or the Sa Clan.
Please state your conditions for assisting me.
What will I need to do in order to get you to mobilize the mercenaries of Merchants Guild?
In that case, please show us the cards you’re having in your hand.
After taking into consideration both your cards and our conditions, if we determine you have an eighty percent chance of success, then you’ll have the support of the guild.
However you should first know that According to our sources, the Murderous Blades have already managed to obtain the seal and charm of the governor.
As such those two things will be of no use in these negotiations .
What you’re saying is not possible.
They're fakes.
What makes you say they must be fakes?
Truthfully, The governor's seal and charm should arrive in Kinka about the same time as you do.
Even without any more information, you'll know them the instant you see them.
I will leave them somewhere very safe where there’s chance that any one will be able to steal them.
That's what His Majesty the King said.
I think we can believe his word.
So, where exactly are the seal and charm then?
Well... I don't know yet.
What?
I will find them, without fail.
I don't know, if it was solely up to us, We would never use such a foolish and irresponsible method ourselves .
but how do you intend to find them?
So this must be the town of Kinka?
um… Show us your pass token , sir.
My pass token? oh, right, of course, let’s see…where did I put it?
Hey! You're holding up the line! Hurry up!
This is a new experience for me, I've never been told to hurry up before in my entire life.
Now that you mention it, It could be fun to have to hurry up for once!
Aha. So that’s where it was.
Come on!
Honestly , Causing so much trouble.
The Twin Dragons?!
My lord, then You're a member of the Ran Clan?!
Now to play a melody to celebrate my arrival in Kinka?
That awful flute music!
Only one man plays like this , he must be lord Ryuren Ran.
Big brother!
I will find the governor's seal and charm before the end of the day.
Furthermore, lieutenant governors, Ensei Ro is coming , he is traveling with Seiran Si, the officer signed to the governors, he wears a precious sword giving by His Majesty himself, and it has a higher rank than even the general of Sa Province
They are both on their way, along with the other governor, Eigetsu To, all of them will be arriving in Kinka shortly.
Well now, that’s all very interesting , but are those all the cards you currently have up your sleeves?
No.
I can’t lose no matter what.
If I lose here, we don't stand a chance.
I will do whatever it takes to win this fight.
The last card I have... is my own life!
If it should come to that, I’m willing to offer my own life as a bargaining chip.
You’re meaning?
Losing my life here in Sa Province would be a great insult to the entire Hong clan.
The Sa Clan cannot kill a lady of the direct line of the Hong Clan.
The backlash will be too severe , they can’t afford that.
And that's why my life is valuable
There is no guarantee in your final card.
We won't really know how the Hong Clan will react until that time actually comes.
But sir...!
We will give you our conditions now.
Get rid of the leader of the Murderous Blades as well as taking care of all his senior officers.
If you promise you can do that, then (I intend) will promise to send our elite troops to join you and assist you.
I can see the value in that strong spirit of yours.
Thank you sir!
Governor Hong.
Yes!
Can you promise that you will not betray the hopes of the people of Sa Province?
Yes.
At last, We finally reached Kinka.
I know.
Mister Kokujun?
we've been waiting. Welcome to humble Kinka city, Governor To and of course welcome to the young lady imposter as well.
Shall we arrange a room for you at the end for the night?
No, thank you.
It’s all been taken care of, I'll be staying at the residence of the son of the Rin family.
Um, is something wrong?
A few days ago, the entire Rin family was slaughtered by the Murderous Blades.
As far as we can tell, There were no survivors.
But How can that, How can that be?
Then, who is that man?
Who in the world... could he be?
Next Episode
I finally reached Kinka, where I promised to meet up with Seiran, Ensei, Korin, and Eigetsu.
But what's worrying me most is Senya Rin's identity.
Could it be that I was traveling with someone very dangerous?!