As the time arrives when the breeze begins to carry the first scent of the summer's beginning, Shurei's first ever departure from Shi Province is only two days away. Lord Koyu. Here you go. I made a couple of steamed buns with egg yolk kneaded into the sweet bean paste. Have them while they're still warm. okay. Thanks very much. Yes, it’s probably gonna be a long time before I can enjoy your homemade steamed buns again. Would you like me to teach you how to make them? Yeah, oh, By the way, there's something important I have to talk to you about.
The Wise Man Does Not Court Danger
It's about what happened one year ago, when you were taken hostage. I was poisoned, held captive at the ministry of the Enlightened Ones' Cave, then rescued by His Majesty. But That's all I remember about this incident really. At the time, no one was willing to tell me the whole truth about what was actually going on So I assumed the subject was taboo and didn’t ask any question about it. Well now, you’re an official. That means you’ll no longer need to be protected. So I will tell you the truth, if you wish. That incident was all part of a conspiracy, by Enjun Sa, the late Advisor Sa. He wanted to rise above Advisor Sho. In order to achieve that, he attempted to eliminate His Majesty and put in a different king. But We were able to find out about his plan from an unexpected source. From Korin. Korin loved Enjun Sa with all her heart. after you entered the royal palace, His Majesty changed for the better, so quite likely Advisor Sa found your presence bothersome to his plans. That's why Korin, despite not having been ordered to do so, took upon herself to help him, by poisoning you. Were you aware that was the case? No. But she was likely hesitating about it. As a result, her actions were quite obvious. But I, I was completely unaware of what she was doing. I never once suspected Korin was behind this. She returned to Sa Province soon after that, and now, Ensei has brought her back here. Apparently, she wants to apologize to you in person. Decide for yourself whether or not you will see her. Yes. Hey, Shurei, Is something bothering you? Ah, no. I was just wondering what sort of place Sa Province might be. I see. That’s a good question. What I've heard is that it’s the territory where the Sa Clan has tried to seize true power. The previous governor, Mr. Ensei, said they sent in a number of assassins after him. Even if we have multiple lives , we still might not survive this. Geeze, You say that so casually, Eigetsu. But no matter how bad it is, someone’s gotta go. And in this case, it just happens to be us. It's as simple as that. Cheer up, shurei, Let's do our best together. I sometimes forget how strong you are. Ryuren! The song I just played was to celebrate my reunion with my kindred spirits. Hey you ! Why did you skip out on the Initiation Ceremony?! The wind invited me to go out on a journey. A journey?! What were you thinking Ryuren?! Now, now, Shurei. I'm sure Mr. Ryuren had a vague reason for going or something. No, he didn’t ! But never mind that. Let's go buy groceries for tonight. will you join us, too, Mr. Ryuren? Yes, I like sweetly-sour, sweetly-sour pork. You’re actually putting in an order?! Um, yeah, I want some sweetly-sour pork too, please! Very nice, such a lovely Sweetly sour scent! Honestly! Who That peacock think he is! Hi! Oh, Mr. Ensei. Princess. I hate to bother you seeing that you're busy, but I brought that traveling companion I told you about before. Would you mind meeting her now? Sure, okay. Sorry to keep you waiting. it's been a long time since we last saw each other. Yes. It's been a while, hasn't it, Korin? No! I can't have the Consort make tea for me! Here, let me do it! Yah! That's hot! Oh, no, I'm so sorry, Lord Ensei! Are you all right? I'm fine. I'll go chill it in water. I remember the last time I made a blunder like that, I think it was on the first day I met and served you, Consort hong. You can call me Shurei. oh, yes. I beg your pardon. Consort Hong... I mean, lady Shurei, I understand that you're to become the Governor of Sa Province. Yes. How are things in Sa Province? Actually, they are quite unsettled right now. One of the reasons I came to Kiyo city was to bring some petitions. Petitions, what do you mean? Well, back home in Sa, I was working as a maid-in-waiting to lady Eiki, the wife of Lord Enjun Sa. But at the moment, she's under strict house arrest and her granddaughter lady Shunki has been forced to go into hiding. That's quite a serious situation. Lady Shurei, are you really planning to go to Sa Province? Huh? Yes, I am. But that's way too much to ask of anybody! Did His Majesty order this of you? Is this his way of getting back at you for leaving the royal residence? You're wrong. It’s not like that at all, He entrusted me with his hope for future of Sa province, along with Eigetsu, the other new governor. But why deliberately send you somewhere he knows is gonna be dangerous? I'm sure he believes this move is the best move. So I trust him. But never mind that, Korin. Wasn't there something else you wanted to talk to me about? Well, I... I was... I was hoping you would allow me to accompany you on your trip to Sa Province. I'm sure there will be many dangers, some of what you might not realize now. So I wish to protect you, even if it means my life. Is it a bad idea? - I wouldn't say no, but...! - please think it over! I promise to do my best. And Also, there are many other important things I want to talk to you about. But I'll leave those for another time. All right. In that case, I'll take my leave for today then, my lady. Korin. Did you say what you needed to? I couldn't bring myself to tell her. I see. You know, now that I think about it, this is the very spot where I met Princess for the first time. I had collapsed by the side of the road and she took me in and fed me, even though she had no idea who the heck I was. That's very much like her. I’ll say this about Princess, she’s always open-minded. Be frank with her, and I bet she'll be more understanding than you expect. Yes. I'm so glad you're all right, Mr. Ryuren. Even though You came in second, you didn't come to the Initiation Ceremony, so I was worried about you. Although Shurei said there was absolutely nothing to worry about. Kindred spirit. What is it? As always, your cooking is so very delectable on the palate! I'm glad to hear it. So, I have a proposal for you. Yes ? Won't you change your mind to become my personal chef? No, Not a chance! Ah, but it was really something during those final exams, wasn't it? You ended up creating many new legends, didn't you, Mr.Ryuren? You mean, like the Cursed 13th Building? Well...yeah ! Wow. I never knew that, so The preparatory dorm I stayed in was actually cursed? Nope, Wrong! People started calling it that, because you were staying there! One after another, the examinees became mentally disturbed, thanks to the sound of your flute! Because of your silly conversations, seven officials in charge of the exams resigned. And yet, despite all of that, he was still able passed as Bogen. General Ran was regretting the fact that he didn’t keep you locked up at his own residence until just before the exams began. Silly Brother Number Four's residence is pointlessly large and unnecessarily glittery. It doesn't suit my taste one bit. In contrast, this place, given the obvious signs of vain efforts of repair, the nice degree of sprouting weeds, and last but not least the self-sufficient spirit apparent in the backyard garden...! Everything gets a passing grade. No one asked for your opinion! Kindred spirit two. Yes? I wish you'd provide dinner conversation that is more enjoyable and appropriate for a meal. Enjoyable? Ah, let me think...! Well, Speaking of cursed, I've heard that there’s a ghost that appears near the Ministry of the Enlightened Ones' Cave. What? A ghost? While it's still not appropriate, I'm interested in hearing more. Apparently, a number of people have seen it. I would very much like to hunt it. Let's do so tonight! Let us assemble once more after dark, kindred spirits number one and two. At the Ministry! Well then, I shall see you both later tonight. H-Hey, wait a minute! We're ghost- hunting before we leave for our post?
The Story of Saiunkoku
Honestly! Nothing good ever comes from dealing with that silly man. maybe, but you seem to be in much better spirits now. You were looking a little bit down before. Wait a minute, you’re not suggesting that Mr. crazy peacock said we should go ghost-hunting just so I would cheer up, are you? It's certainly possible. Who goes there?! Official Hong and Official To. I didn’t recognize you. Do you mind telling us What you’re doing here at this time of night? Well ...! we asked them to come. we have something to discuss with them in private regarding their assignment. Yes sir. Please Excuse us. Good night then. Why are you here at this time of night? Well, see...! A tryst? No way! Do you have to deny it so quick, shurei? What about you? What are you doing around here? Ah, I couldn't sleep, so I was taking a walk. And you two? Oh, right. Have you seen Ryuren? You mean Ryuren Ran? No, I gather his whereabouts have been unknown since he missed the Initiation Ceremony. Well, he was eating sweet and sour pork today in my house. He was? He invited us out here, he wanted to try hunting a ghost...! A ghost? In any case, we're supposed to meet Ryuren in front of the Ministry of the Enlighten one’s cave. we need to get there before he causes a commotion. WAIT!! Don't you dare play that flute! You're pretty late getting here, kindred spirits number one and two. Wait just a minute, How could you manage to get into the palace without getting into trouble? When I showed them the Ran Clan travel pass the guards let me through. Ryuren Ran, I haven't seen you, since the exams. I've passed on your message to my elder brothers. What does he mean? Two days after the exams, I went to visit him. I asked him to do me a favor and convey a message for me to his brothers, the heads of the Ran clan. The king himself went to see an individual examinee? I've heard that while they have a great deal of power, the Ran Clan doesn't involve itself with politics. Perhaps his majesty was only giving them his regards? While there was that, his exam paper was very impressive, so I wanted to meet him. That aside, what are you going to do when you find this ghost? Naturally, we're going to exorcise it. Yes, but How? I already told you, stop playing that flute! it doesn’t seem like this ghost’s going to show up, does it? Rumor has it that it appears around the ministry of Enlightened Ones' Cave, but it is only a rumor. They say that the wise man does not court danger. Why don’t we give up ghost-hunting and head back to my quarters? I'll have a late night’s snack prepared. Good idea. Thank you for offering. Ryuren Is that okay with you? Well then, in that case, we can tell ghost stories instead. Yes, I've heard those rumors about a ghost appearing at the Ministry of the Enlightened Ones' Cave. It’s quite mysterious, I remember that I always used to tell the kids at the temple school, about how there were eight enlightened ones in our country long ago. The Eight Colored Enlightened Ones? Yes, I’ve always found that Children love those kinds of strange and magic stories. Let’s say, Blue, purple, red, green, yellow, white, black, and brown. Those were their colors. When I was a child, I used to pretend that I was one of the Eight Colored Enlightened Ones. Really? They say that even now, each of the eight enlightened ones is living in someone else's body. Someone else's body? Hey, wouldn’t it be nice if the enlightened ones were doing that even now and helping our country? It would? Yes. When I was a child, I spent a lot of time being ill, But after mom died, I became much better and my health improved for good.. So, from time to time, I can’t help but wonder about whether mother's spirit might have entered me. And that she's been helping me and strengthening me since that moment. I guess when you think about it that way, your mother is still alive inside of you. It always gives me strength to think that. hey there's one inside you too, isn’t it, Eigetsu? A helpful enlightened one. You are so nice and kind natured, maybe Yogetsu was born to help you out. You mean inside kindred spirit number two there's a kindred spirit number 2.5? He only comes out when he drinks alcohol. Please don't talk about that, shurei! Well, I often run into mysterious or frightening things while I was traveling. For example, this happened once when I took a room at a small inn for the night. I was fast asleep when suddenly I felt like I was being watched and woke up immediately . I opened my eyes. And There... I saw hundreds of eyes floating on the ceiling. Well, I'm not gonna be sleeping tonight. On another night, for some unknown reason there was a girl sitting in the corner of my room. And her face... it was the most frightening... No, Stop it! I'm afraid of the dark as it is. You’re just making it worse. Ah, on that note, seeing how late it is, we really should get going. Y-You're right. Not yet! I still have many stories to tell! You don't need to tell any more. You're leaving me behind and going home?! I wonder if His Majesty will be all right. So do I, but we can't just stay overnight. Before we leave, I'll play a melody to disperse any evil spirits around. W-Wait! Please stop playing that flute. Oh, we’re sorry. You haven't changed one bit, Ryuren Ran. And you must be Eigetsu To, correct ? Yes. Who could've ever imagined that you would have been chosen to serve Sa Province as governor. Um, I beg your pardon, sir, but you are...? Those who love this country have the protection of the Eight Colored Enlightened Ones. I-It really appeared. You’re not kidding. Kindred spirits number one and two. We shall meet again. What do you mean, You're not gonna exorcise it?! The wise man does not court danger, remember ? While I had thought to disperse evil spirits by playing my flute, it seems when I play, evil spirits appear. I have a favor to ask of you. For the sake of the new co-governors, I want you to take these as a gift and go visit them at some point. I believe you're in the best position to do so. While I understand you won't do anything for me personally, I’m sure it would be a different matter if it's for them. If you feel up to it, I'd appreciate it if you’d write to me regarding the situation there. Without telling my foolish brother? Elder brother Shu lacks trust, I see. On the contrary, I trust in him completely. but, unlike you, Shuei can never fully escape the yoke of the Ran Clan. And I do not want them involved. I want someone who has no ties to the wishes of the seven noble clans. Your intentions are transparent to the leaders of the Ran Clan, my three eldest brothers. That doesn't matter. They said that after you took the name Ryuren, your three elder brothers took the clan leadership and divided it between themselves. No doubt, the reason they did this was so that you would not have to take that road before having the chance to see the world and the people in it. That’s why it’s important that I’m asking this favor of you, the man for whom the Ran family cares so much. those gifts alone lack refinement For the occasional visiting friends, I will see them in the summer or early autumn, so I'll add a few pears. The Court can manage even without the Ran Clan. Of course your family is important, but in this case, it's not a problem to have that particular dragon remain asleep. However, should that dragons awaken and lend us its power once again, I would be more than happy to take that hand of friendship. I accept your request. Ryuren Ran, do you really have no intention of becoming an official? No . What about becoming leader of the Ran Clan? In simple terms, it’s my believe that I must not wish for that sort of thing in my life. big brother, You didn't go home after all? I thought you would probably come back. But stop calling me big brother. Or else I'll start being humble to you. All right. I'll stop. I'll stop. So What sort of young man is Ryuren Ran? Is he at all like General Ran? Yes, He is. But he's much deeper than Shuei. I know he's said to be eccentric, but he seemed normal to me. And I couldn’t help but get the feeling that even that isn't the real him. Ryuren Ran, truly a young lord reflecting the very clan itself. well then, I'll be going. Big brother. Take care of Shurei for me. Wait, Let me walk by your side a little longer. I won't be able to see you again for a while. Welcome home, you two. You were awfully late. You left a note saying only that you had gone to the palace. I was so worried I couldn't sleep. Oh. I'm so sorry, Father. I'm sorry to have caused such concern. Also, we had a guest come late in the evening who’s stayed up and waited with me. Korin? No. This is Kuro. He’s My younger brother. In other words, he’s your uncle, shurei. While I'm late in doing so, I give you my congratulations on passing the exam as Tanka. Thank you very much sir! Until now, older brother Sho would not permit those of the main house to have any involvement with you. However, things will be different from here on. You'll need the help of the main house to protect you from the various plots that will fall upon you. As proxy clan leader, I share responsibility to protect you. The Hong Clan will protect the path you take with all its power. I doubt a single person suspects you have the real clan ring, sho. I imagine you made that fake ring and arranged for it to fall into Senior Secretary Sai's possession, to make his corrupt activities known. Well, of course. Honestly. Everything happens just as you plan. It's good to see you again, So? I see you’re much younger as a ghost Enjun. It’s only natural, Using this ring was the easiest way to retain his soul. After this country become stable, the Sa Clan will only become a problem. I created the perfect opportunity to deal with them, and what did you do? Wait, then you’re saying you plotted to kill His Majesty and Shurei, just so you could create an opportunity to bring about the downfall of the Sa Clan? But no doubt the new co-governors will find a different way to save Sa province. So Next is Sa Province. Tomorrow we leave for Sa Province. Whatever happens, I have to do my best!
Next Episode
The time has finally come to leave for Sa Province as its governor. I won't lose to the Sa Clan, their interference. Whatever happens, I'm gonna force my way through! I’m not gonna be stopped that easily.
Lord Koyu. Here you go.
I made a couple of steamed buns with egg yolk kneaded into the sweet bean paste.
Have them while they're still warm.
okay. Thanks very much.
Yes, it’s probably gonna be a long time before I can enjoy your homemade steamed buns again.
Would you like me to teach you how to make them?
Yeah, oh, By the way, there's something important I have to talk to you about.
The Wise Man Does Not Court Danger
It's about what happened one year ago, when you were taken hostage.
I was poisoned, held captive at the ministry of the Enlightened Ones' Cave, then rescued by His Majesty.
But That's all I remember about this incident really.
At the time, no one was willing to tell me the whole truth about what was actually going on
So I assumed the subject was taboo and didn’t ask any question about it.
Well now, you’re an official. That means you’ll no longer need to be protected.
So I will tell you the truth, if you wish.
That incident was all part of a conspiracy, by Enjun Sa, the late Advisor Sa.
He wanted to rise above Advisor Sho.
In order to achieve that, he attempted to eliminate His Majesty and put in a different king. But We were able to find out about his plan from an unexpected source.
From Korin.
Korin loved Enjun Sa with all her heart.
after you entered the royal palace, His Majesty changed for the better, so quite likely Advisor Sa found your presence bothersome to his plans.
That's why Korin, despite not having been ordered to do so, took upon herself to help him, by poisoning you.
Were you aware that was the case?
No.
But she was likely hesitating about it. As a result, her actions were quite obvious.
But I, I was completely unaware of what she was doing.
I never once suspected Korin was behind this.
She returned to Sa Province soon after that, and now, Ensei has brought her back here.
Apparently, she wants to apologize to you in person.
Decide for yourself whether or not you will see her.
Yes.
Hey, Shurei, Is something bothering you?
Ah, no. I was just wondering what sort of place Sa Province might be.
I see. That’s a good question.
What I've heard is that it’s the territory where the Sa Clan has tried to seize true power.
The previous governor, Mr. Ensei, said they sent in a number of assassins after him.
Even if we have multiple lives , we still might not survive this.
Geeze, You say that so casually, Eigetsu.
But no matter how bad it is, someone’s gotta go.
And in this case, it just happens to be us.
It's as simple as that.
Cheer up, shurei, Let's do our best together.
I sometimes forget how strong you are.
Ryuren!
The song I just played was to celebrate my reunion with my kindred spirits.
Hey you ! Why did you skip out on the Initiation Ceremony?!
The wind invited me to go out on a journey.
A journey?!
What were you thinking Ryuren?!
Now, now, Shurei. I'm sure Mr. Ryuren had a vague reason for going or something.
No, he didn’t !
But never mind that. Let's go buy groceries for tonight.
will you join us, too, Mr. Ryuren?
Yes, I like sweetly-sour, sweetly-sour pork.
You’re actually putting in an order?!
Um, yeah, I want some sweetly-sour pork too, please!
Very nice, such a lovely Sweetly sour scent!
Honestly! Who That peacock think he is!
Hi!
Oh, Mr. Ensei.
Princess. I hate to bother you seeing that you're busy, but I brought that traveling companion I told you about before.
Would you mind meeting her now?
Sure, okay.
Sorry to keep you waiting.
it's been a long time since we last saw each other.
Yes. It's been a while, hasn't it, Korin?
No! I can't have the Consort make tea for me! Here, let me do it!
Yah! That's hot!
Oh, no, I'm so sorry, Lord Ensei!
Are you all right?
I'm fine. I'll go chill it in water.
I remember the last time I made a blunder like that, I think it was on the first day I met and served you, Consort hong.
You can call me Shurei.
oh, yes. I beg your pardon.
Consort Hong... I mean, lady Shurei, I understand that you're to become the Governor of Sa Province.
Yes.
How are things in Sa Province?
Actually, they are quite unsettled right now.
One of the reasons I came to Kiyo city was to bring some petitions.
Petitions, what do you mean?
Well, back home in Sa, I was working as a maid-in-waiting to lady Eiki, the wife of Lord Enjun Sa.
But at the moment, she's under strict house arrest and her granddaughter lady Shunki has been forced to go into hiding.
That's quite a serious situation.
Lady Shurei, are you really planning to go to Sa Province?
Huh? Yes, I am.
But that's way too much to ask of anybody!
Did His Majesty order this of you?
Is this his way of getting back at you for leaving the royal residence?
You're wrong.
It’s not like that at all, He entrusted me with his hope for future of Sa province, along with Eigetsu, the other new governor.
But why deliberately send you somewhere he knows is gonna be dangerous?
I'm sure he believes this move is the best move. So I trust him.
But never mind that, Korin.
Wasn't there something else you wanted to talk to me about?
Well, I... I was... I was hoping you would allow me to accompany you on your trip to Sa Province.
I'm sure there will be many dangers, some of what you might not realize now.
So I wish to protect you, even if it means my life.
Is it a bad idea?
- I wouldn't say no, but...!
- please think it over! I promise to do my best.
And Also, there are many other important things I want to talk to you about.
But I'll leave those for another time.
All right.
In that case, I'll take my leave for today then, my lady.
Korin.
Did you say what you needed to?
I couldn't bring myself to tell her.
I see.
You know, now that I think about it, this is the very spot where I met Princess for the first time.
I had collapsed by the side of the road and she took me in and fed me, even though she had no idea who the heck I was.
That's very much like her.
I’ll say this about Princess, she’s always open-minded.
Be frank with her, and I bet she'll be more understanding than you expect.
Yes.
I'm so glad you're all right, Mr. Ryuren.
Even though You came in second, you didn't come to the Initiation Ceremony, so I was worried about you.
Although Shurei said there was absolutely nothing to worry about.
Kindred spirit.
What is it?
As always, your cooking is so very delectable on the palate!
I'm glad to hear it.
So, I have a proposal for you.
Yes ?
Won't you change your mind to become my personal chef?
No, Not a chance!
Ah, but it was really something during those final exams, wasn't it?
You ended up creating many new legends, didn't you, Mr.Ryuren?
You mean, like the Cursed 13th Building?
Well...yeah !
Wow. I never knew that, so The preparatory dorm I stayed in was actually cursed?
Nope, Wrong! People started calling it that, because you were staying there!
One after another, the examinees became mentally disturbed, thanks to the sound of your flute!
Because of your silly conversations, seven officials in charge of the exams resigned.
And yet, despite all of that, he was still able passed as Bogen.
General Ran was regretting the fact that he didn’t keep you locked up at his own residence until just before the exams began.
Silly Brother Number Four's residence is pointlessly large and unnecessarily glittery.
It doesn't suit my taste one bit.
In contrast, this place, given the obvious signs of vain efforts of repair, the nice degree of sprouting weeds, and last but not least the self-sufficient spirit apparent in the backyard garden...!
Everything gets a passing grade.
No one asked for your opinion!
Kindred spirit two.
Yes?
I wish you'd provide dinner conversation that is more enjoyable and appropriate for a meal.
Enjoyable? Ah, let me think...!
Well, Speaking of cursed, I've heard that there’s a ghost that appears near the Ministry of the Enlightened Ones' Cave.
What? A ghost?
While it's still not appropriate, I'm interested in hearing more.
Apparently, a number of people have seen it.
I would very much like to hunt it.
Let's do so tonight!
Let us assemble once more after dark, kindred spirits number one and two.
At the Ministry!
Well then, I shall see you both later tonight.
H-Hey, wait a minute!
We're ghost- hunting before we leave for our post?
The Story of Saiunkoku
Honestly! Nothing good ever comes from dealing with that silly man.
maybe, but you seem to be in much better spirits now.
You were looking a little bit down before.
Wait a minute, you’re not suggesting that Mr. crazy peacock said we should go ghost-hunting just so I would cheer up, are you?
It's certainly possible.
Who goes there?!
Official Hong and Official To. I didn’t recognize you.
Do you mind telling us What you’re doing here at this time of night?
Well ...!
we asked them to come.
we have something to discuss with them in private regarding their assignment.
Yes sir.
Please Excuse us. Good night then.
Why are you here at this time of night?
Well, see...!
A tryst?
No way!
Do you have to deny it so quick, shurei?
What about you? What are you doing around here?
Ah, I couldn't sleep, so I was taking a walk. And you two?
Oh, right. Have you seen Ryuren?
You mean Ryuren Ran?
No, I gather his whereabouts have been unknown since he missed the Initiation Ceremony.
Well, he was eating sweet and sour pork today in my house.
He was?
He invited us out here, he wanted to try hunting a ghost...!
A ghost?
In any case, we're supposed to meet Ryuren in front of the Ministry of the Enlighten one’s cave.
we need to get there before he causes a commotion.
WAIT!! Don't you dare play that flute!
You're pretty late getting here, kindred spirits number one and two.
Wait just a minute, How could you manage to get into the palace without getting into trouble?
When I showed them the Ran Clan travel pass the guards let me through.
Ryuren Ran, I haven't seen you, since the exams.
I've passed on your message to my elder brothers.
What does he mean?
Two days after the exams, I went to visit him.
I asked him to do me a favor and convey a message for me to his brothers, the heads of the Ran clan.
The king himself went to see an individual examinee?
I've heard that while they have a great deal of power, the Ran Clan doesn't involve itself with politics.
Perhaps his majesty was only giving them his regards?
While there was that, his exam paper was very impressive, so I wanted to meet him.
That aside, what are you going to do when you find this ghost?
Naturally, we're going to exorcise it.
Yes, but How?
I already told you, stop playing that flute!
it doesn’t seem like this ghost’s going to show up, does it?
Rumor has it that it appears around the ministry of Enlightened Ones' Cave, but it is only a rumor.
They say that the wise man does not court danger.
Why don’t we give up ghost-hunting and head back to my quarters?
I'll have a late night’s snack prepared.
Good idea.
Thank you for offering. Ryuren Is that okay with you?
Well then, in that case, we can tell ghost stories instead.
Yes, I've heard those rumors about a ghost appearing at the Ministry of the Enlightened Ones' Cave.
It’s quite mysterious, I remember that I always used to tell the kids at the temple school, about how there were eight enlightened ones in our country long ago.
The Eight Colored Enlightened Ones?
Yes, I’ve always found that Children love those kinds of strange and magic stories.
Let’s say, Blue, purple, red, green, yellow, white, black, and brown.
Those were their colors.
When I was a child, I used to pretend that I was one of the Eight Colored Enlightened Ones.
Really?
They say that even now, each of the eight enlightened ones is living in someone else's body.
Someone else's body?
Hey, wouldn’t it be nice if the enlightened ones were doing that even now and helping our country?
It would?
Yes.
When I was a child, I spent a lot of time being ill, But after mom died, I became much better and my health improved for good..
So, from time to time, I can’t help but wonder about whether mother's spirit might have entered me.
And that she's been helping me and strengthening me since that moment.
I guess when you think about it that way, your mother is still alive inside of you.
It always gives me strength to think that.
hey there's one inside you too, isn’t it, Eigetsu? A helpful enlightened one.
You are so nice and kind natured, maybe Yogetsu was born to help you out.
You mean inside kindred spirit number two there's a kindred spirit number 2.5?
He only comes out when he drinks alcohol.
Please don't talk about that, shurei!
Well, I often run into mysterious or frightening things while I was traveling.
For example, this happened once when I took a room at a small inn for the night.
I was fast asleep when suddenly I felt like I was being watched and woke up immediately .
I opened my eyes. And There... I saw hundreds of eyes floating on the ceiling.
Well, I'm not gonna be sleeping tonight.
On another night, for some unknown reason there was a girl sitting in the corner of my room.
And her face... it was the most frightening...
No, Stop it! I'm afraid of the dark as it is.
You’re just making it worse.
Ah, on that note, seeing how late it is, we really should get going.
Y-You're right.
Not yet! I still have many stories to tell!
You don't need to tell any more.
You're leaving me behind and going home?!
I wonder if His Majesty will be all right.
So do I, but we can't just stay overnight.
Before we leave, I'll play a melody to disperse any evil spirits around.
W-Wait!
Please stop playing that flute.
Oh, we’re sorry.
You haven't changed one bit, Ryuren Ran.
And you must be Eigetsu To, correct ?
Yes.
Who could've ever imagined that you would have been chosen to serve Sa Province as governor.
Um, I beg your pardon, sir, but you are...?
Those who love this country have the protection of the Eight Colored Enlightened Ones.
I-It really appeared.
You’re not kidding.
Kindred spirits number one and two.
We shall meet again.
What do you mean, You're not gonna exorcise it?!
The wise man does not court danger, remember ?
While I had thought to disperse evil spirits by playing my flute, it seems when I play, evil spirits appear.
I have a favor to ask of you.
For the sake of the new co-governors, I want you to take these as a gift and go visit them at some point.
I believe you're in the best position to do so.
While I understand you won't do anything for me personally, I’m sure it would be a different matter if it's for them.
If you feel up to it, I'd appreciate it if you’d write to me regarding the situation there.
Without telling my foolish brother?
Elder brother Shu lacks trust, I see.
On the contrary, I trust in him completely.
but, unlike you, Shuei can never fully escape the yoke of the Ran Clan.
And I do not want them involved.
I want someone who has no ties to the wishes of the seven noble clans.
Your intentions are transparent to the leaders of the Ran Clan, my three eldest brothers.
That doesn't matter.
They said that after you took the name Ryuren, your three elder brothers took the clan leadership and divided it between themselves.
No doubt, the reason they did this was so that you would not have to take that road before having the chance to see the world and the people in it.
That’s why it’s important that I’m asking this favor of you, the man for whom the Ran family cares so much.
those gifts alone lack refinement For the occasional visiting friends,
I will see them in the summer or early autumn, so I'll add a few pears.
The Court can manage even without the Ran Clan.
Of course your family is important, but in this case, it's not a problem to have that particular dragon remain asleep.
However, should that dragons awaken and lend us its power once again, I would be more than happy to take that hand of friendship.
I accept your request.
Ryuren Ran, do you really have no intention of becoming an official?
No .
What about becoming leader of the Ran Clan?
In simple terms, it’s my believe that I must not wish for that sort of thing in my life.
big brother, You didn't go home after all?
I thought you would probably come back.
But stop calling me big brother.
Or else I'll start being humble to you.
All right. I'll stop. I'll stop.
So What sort of young man is Ryuren Ran? Is he at all like General Ran?
Yes, He is. But he's much deeper than Shuei.
I know he's said to be eccentric, but he seemed normal to me.
And I couldn’t help but get the feeling that even that isn't the real him.
Ryuren Ran, truly a young lord reflecting the very clan itself.
well then, I'll be going.
Big brother.
Take care of Shurei for me.
Wait, Let me walk by your side a little longer.
I won't be able to see you again for a while.
Welcome home, you two.
You were awfully late.
You left a note saying only that you had gone to the palace.
I was so worried I couldn't sleep.
Oh. I'm so sorry, Father.
I'm sorry to have caused such concern.
Also, we had a guest come late in the evening who’s stayed up and waited with me.
Korin?
No.
This is Kuro. He’s My younger brother.
In other words, he’s your uncle, shurei.
While I'm late in doing so, I give you my congratulations on passing the exam as Tanka.
Thank you very much sir!
Until now, older brother Sho would not permit those of the main house to have any involvement with you.
However, things will be different from here on.
You'll need the help of the main house to protect you from the various plots that will fall upon you.
As proxy clan leader, I share responsibility to protect you.
The Hong Clan will protect the path you take with all its power.
I doubt a single person suspects you have the real clan ring, sho.
I imagine you made that fake ring and arranged for it to fall into Senior Secretary Sai's possession, to make his corrupt activities known.
Well, of course.
Honestly. Everything happens just as you plan.
It's good to see you again, So?
I see you’re much younger as a ghost Enjun.
It’s only natural, Using this ring was the easiest way to retain his soul.
After this country become stable, the Sa Clan will only become a problem.
I created the perfect opportunity to deal with them, and what did you do?
Wait, then you’re saying you plotted to kill His Majesty and Shurei, just so you could create an opportunity to bring about the downfall of the Sa Clan?
But no doubt the new co-governors will find a different way to save Sa province.
So Next is Sa Province.
Tomorrow we leave for Sa Province.
Whatever happens, I have to do my best!
Next Episode
The time has finally come to leave for Sa Province as its governor.
I won't lose to the Sa Clan, their interference.
Whatever happens, I'm gonna force my way through!
I’m not gonna be stopped that easily.