Several days had passed since the liberation of the mayor of Kinka, Shin Sai from his confinement and the banishment of the Murderous Blades from the city. A government official said to have arrived from Koren has appeared before Shurei, Eigetsu, and the others, as they were busily processing matters relating to the incident. So You're Mr. Jun Yu from Koren city? Yes. Then you decided to come after all! Is everything all right over there now? I think for the time being, what's important is that we work together to immediately bring the situation back to normal in Kinka. Ah, right. Yeah, Of course, You're absolutely right! Hey, maybe you should properly introduce him to us, rather than just telling us his name? Don’t worry, we can save that stuff for later. We've got a mountain-load of work to do! Say that stuff for later?
It's Always Darkest Before the Dawn
Excuse me, Official Yu. About this document , Ah, yes, of course, since it's necessary that this be checked and verified against the taxation records from last year, I'll take care of this for you. more importantly, I'd like to have your approval on this document. Right. Could you stamp this document with your seal as well, please. sure. After that, there's this, and this... oh, and this one, too. Oh, dear, You’ve got quite a lot of work again. Yes. But you know, if we can bring happiness and peace to the people of Kinka by doing our job like this, I don’t really mind. right. But just imagine what things could have been like, if we didn’t have those two here to help us out with all of this. Even though we were appointed as co-governors, we still are total novices to government. The fact is, as we are now, we don't know left from right, do we? Right now, our entire job description is just putting our signatures and seal on the documents that they've verified. Official Yu's assistance has been really helpful. He’s very precise and quick when it comes to this sort of thing. Come on. Don't just sit around talking, I need a stamp on this too, please. For calling out loud, why is there so much work to do?! Official Yu! I'm so, so sorry. No, it's perfectly all right. None of it got on the documents, so it’s fine. This is so embarrassing , I'm utterly ashamed of myself. Yeah, Me too. It's to be expected at this stage. Oh Yeah, that's right. actually, you two are doing a whole lot better than I did during my time! If you don’t mind me saying, that’s not something to brag about. Or are you trying to make excuses for the way you irresponsibly put your seal on documents when you hadn’t even read through them, or how you used to act recklessly whenever you had a spare moment or two? That couldn’t be helped, Back then, the assassins from the Sa Clan were persistent. And Besides, that was ten years ago. You certainly have a good memory. Yes. I remember it very well. Even in a hundred years, I can never forget your kind act to push me into a manure pool without warning. But that was to save you from a poisonous arrow! And besides, thanks to that incident, all those people who used to think you were too cool and calm to approach, they warmed up to you, and started coming to you more often. Look, Please refrain from making pointless excuses for yourself . We have More important things to do, the taxation information for last year is on the bookshelf on the north side, second from the right, fifth shelf from the top. Yes, sir! Wow, Official Yu and Mr. ensai, really get along well! Yes, they do! But have you noticed that Ensei's the one running around? I don’t think I have seen Official Yu get up from his seat a single time. Is that so? It makes perfect sense, Ensei's the type of man you'd assume has muscles in his head instead of brains. He's got to be moving continually, or he gets restless. Yeah. Exactly. That’s , hey wait just a minute , why would you go say a thing like that? I understand you buried Sojun Sa in that court yard all by yourself. Yes. As a member of the Sa Clan, it was the very least I could do for him. That's very impressive of you. No, you’re wrong, you guys 're the ones who are impressive. You were able to chase the Murderous Blades out of Kinka, and liberated it from the hands of the Sa Clan. Maybe. But we weren’t able to do any of that by ourselves Even so, you're all incredible! Especially Miss Shurei, I think. I should be getting back to work soon. In comparison, all I can do...! Listen to me well, Shunki. Read the stars, and gauge the right moment . And when that moment comes...! Oh. Miss Shunki! Wow, So you've come all the way down here, have you? I guess Your legs have become a lot stronger since you arrived, Miss Shunki! You've cut your hand on a thorn or something. we’ll mix some medicine for you, When we get home I feel kind of bad, your hands were like of a princess’ when you first came to stay with us. I only wish I had some kind of medicine or herbs that could bring your voice back to you, Miss Shunki. Boss! Miss Shunki! You’re right on time, I just finished preparing lunch! You were able to pick quite a lot! Huh! Those mushrooms are poisonous. Yoshun, You idiot! What are you trying to do? embarrass the poor girl?! If something like that happens, you tell her later, in secret. You’re right, I’m stupid, I wasn't thinking! I'm sorry, Miss Shunki! Please forgive me. Listen, Yoshun! Miss Shunki was entrusted to us by Ensei Ro. And We have to do everything we can to protect her, right? But there's no way we will accomplish this important task with half hearted devotion. Got it! If we can fulfill this mission, we will mature into a second generation of chivalrous thieves , the Bald Eagles of Sa Province will fly again! You said it, boss man! And when that moment comes, you shall do what you need to do, Shunki. This is delicious! Korin, your skills have improved. Nonsense. I still hardly compare to you, lady Shurei. Hey! Could I have two sweet bean paste buns as well please? Why should only Princess get more than one? It's a difference of affection. never in my life have I been shown so clearly, the difference in the amount of affection someone has for me. Don't sulk ensei, it’s not just you, Official Yu and Eigetsu only got one each as well. Yes, But look at mine, mine's the smallest! Nice try, but They're all the same size! Fine, then I'll give you half of one of mine. All right! A chestnut? I see. A difference in affection indeed. I'll go make some more tea! By the way, I mean to ask Ensei, would you mind filling us in on exactly what's going on in Koren right now? Such as? I mean, you made such an effort to get us into Sa Province quickly, but you haven't said a word about moving on since we arrived here. It's true that we can reach Koren in five days’ travel, even at a relaxed pace, but we only have twenty days before our deadline to arrive and take our post. If we missed that day, then our post as co-governors would be stripped from us, regardless of the circumstances. Yes, I realize that. But bear with me a bit longer. I’ll perform it until we get the latest news on Koren by way of Sho Sai and that sister of his. I see. But Ensei, will Lieutenant Governor Tei be all right? Yushun, huh? Yeah, I think he'll be just fine. That's your answer? Aren't you worried about him? Yes, that’s right! Until now, as acting governor, he held the highest decision-making Authority in the Provence , so he was still safe. But the moment we take our posts and he transferees his authority over to us, his life could be in danger from the sa clan! I think If Yushun heard you said that, he'd be so happy he'd burst into tears. Yes, he sure would. In his case, there's no need to worry. Are you absolutely sure I’m positive. Not even Sakujun Sa himself would be able to do anything about Yushun at the moment. The two of us already decided together that we would transfer all authority as governors to you in the best possible state. So I ask you to put your trust in Yushun. You know, it looks like the two of us are truly blessed, aren't we, shurei? It’s true, sending you to Sa Province was a wise decision by His Majesty. This will be a ideal first assignment for you. Given that your predecessor is an unusual Ensei Ro, the unique circumstances regarding your age and gender will not even be an issue to the people of this province. You’ve got some nerve to say that while I’m sitting right here, of course, you’re quite right. This place’s always been a province mostly abandoned by the central government. Deep down, everyone was anxious and ill at ease. But then people received the good news that truly legitimate governors would be arriving, governors to whom His Majesty had bestowed flowers. The citizens of the Sa Province were overjoyed upon hearing that. Why were the people so happy about us receiving a flower? The flower is proof of His Majesty's absolute trust. Those with flowers bestowed upon them are rarely assigned to work in other districts. By Dispatching such governors, his majority is telling the people that he’s clearly committed to pay closer attention to this province. Not only does bestowing the flower upon you protect you personally, it also spares Sa Province from much of its laments and fears. It's a brilliant move. There's one more reason why it was good for you to come to Sa Province, princess. What’s that? Well, The headquarters of the Merchants Guild in Sa Province is run by Sho Sai's older sister. Her ability to run things puts men to shame... multiple times, as a matter of fact. For that reason, there will likely be less prejudice towards a female governor here than in the other provinces. I believe this will be the most appropriate place for the first female government official. I can’t believe how much Ryuki thought this assignment through? Excuse me. Lord Sho Sai has asked to speak with you. Oh, so he's arrived already, please, show him in. well, how was everything? As of four days ago, By the order of Lieutenant Governor Tei, an official announcement has been issued ordering a complete blockade of all Koren traffic. What ? A complete blockade?! That’s certainly a pretty in-your-face move from the sa clan. The official story is that the two new governors are already in the city, they say to blockade it for safety . It’s supposed to protect them from any possible danger until the assignment ceremony. That's ridiculous. As well, rumors are spreading throughout the city, alleging that the new governors are under the protection of the Sa Clan. People have interpreted this as a sign you are under Sa clan control and your popularity is declining. Great. As if things were not already hard enough, we have the Sa Clan spreading preposterous rumors. What should we do now? Okay then, why don't we leave tomorrow morning. We’ll start out first thing, So get to bed early tonight, got it?
The Story of Saiunkoku
Yes? What is it ensei? I'm busy packing right now, so I don't have very much time to be chatting. You did want to leave really early, right. Say, Princess I was wondering have you talked to Seiran lately? No. We've both been busy with work I guess. Sorry to butt in, but Would you mind having a heart to heart talk with him soon? Ensei certainly doesn't seem like the sort of guy who notices details, but he's really perceptive where it counts! My lady, so this is where you are. Oh. Yeah. Seiran. Let's have some tea together . You sure about this? there's not much time left for sleep. If I went to bed now, I don't think I’d be able to wake up in time. May I ask Why are you making bean paste buns at this time of night? well...I suppose I ! Is there something bothering you? Well, it’s just that you're my second favorite person in the world, Seiran. Are you all right? W-What's gotten into you, all of a sudden? I'm just as surprised myself for saying that. It’s not really like me to say things unintentionally, but you know it kind of came out naturally, didn't it? Like saying "peach buns are my second favorite in the world". her second-most favorite person in the world? Am I supposed to be happy about that or miserable? My lady. Please stop giggling and give me an explanation . I don't know What I should do. About what? Ever since I was a child, I've always seen watching and seeing what crimes my clan commits I saw how much they did to torment the poor citizen of Sa Province. And now, even my old brother Sakujun is doing it. So? I'm sure that deep down in your heart , you already know what to do without having to ask me. Believe in yourself. Do what you feel you have to do, and never mind the rest. Mr. Ensei... Thank you very much. Now, I gotta wonder what's happening over there. It's been a while since we've sat down and talked like this, hasn't it? Uh, well, yes, I, I suppose so. Seiran, Is there something you'd like to ask me? Like what my lady? I seem to have caused you a lot of worry and upset because of that incident with that stupid young master. ask me whatever you want so we can clear the air before we leave. It's supposed to be my job to support you. I’m Pathetic. My Lady. There's the old Seiran. Yes? Is it all right if I ask you who your number one favorite person is? it's father, of course. Even though he's a hopeless father, he's always been my number one. mother's in a different category all together . so, My Lady. Do you like Sakujun Sa at all? Well as far as Seiran’s concern , That’s pretty straightforward. I don't really have any choice but to answer that I don't really know. You don't ? Seiran, I'm sure you understand . When it comes to this kind of thing, I'm totally unfamiliar with it. But I Remember the way that mother got along really well with father. You remember , right? Yes. As a child, there was always something to laugh about. I remember just how lively and fun it always was in our house . That’s true, but only because madam would insist on making medicinal soup and causing an explosion! Wait just one moment. Your medicine will be ready very soon. Oh, dear, I'm sorry, I scared you. It's all right. What on earth are you doing? What if she had been hurt? What would you do then? My goodness , you can talk? If I remember correctly, those were the very first words you ever said after you came to live with us. That's because there was a real risk of you burning yourself. Yes, But after I would drink mother's special medicinal soup, I would become as healthy as any other child for a while. Then She teach me how to play the erhu... We went persimmon picking, She teach me all about manners, we even made bean paste buns together. I think we did as much as we could in a short period, so that we wouldn’t run out of time before I came down with a fever again, or even worse. But in the end, it wasn't me that time ran out on. It was mother. The reason I haven't pursued things like love or romance, may be because of mother. Her death made me really scared. I guess it may have made me afraid to let my guard down and fall in love with someone. I have no confidence in myself. Maybe that's why I haven't been making any effort to find a person who's especially important to me. And although I've always looked away, that man was extremely aggressive. He was very strange, but he has such a beautiful face, my heart would sometimes start pounding despite itself. That's certainly a very objective analysis of yourself. Hey. Why are you laughing? you probably don't understand because you're a very handsome man too. But it can be quite important to a normal person whether your looks are good or bad. That's a very nice thing for you to say. I’m flattered. For all the trouble that young master was, he was good at exposing that weak point of mine. or maybe I'm just generally weak, weak against that special kind of pressure anyway. Sorry, I guess my answer's not making a lot of sense, is it? No, it's all right. If anything I should be thanking you for thinking so much about my feelings. Do you really mean that? That’s not good, now I feel like I’m about to fall fast asleep. I'll be sure to wake you up in the morning. Please get as much sleep as you can. But what about you, Seiran? I have more stamina, so don't worry about me. In that case, I think I might go to bed for a little while. Okay. I... I still have to take the flower bud back, but...! That flower ... belongs to me. So I'll do everything I can on my own. You really shouldn't spoil me... so much. Seiran. Hey! Oh, so you noticed that I was here huh? I was just curious what was going on, since it looked like you were gonna worry yourself to death. As I thought, All you had to do is talk with her, and your problem would be solved. I knew things would get better, It's always darkest before the dawn. It's been a while since I've had any of Princess' steamed buns. You know , I don't think Princess has any idea just how much you really depend on her. You’re the type of guy who needs at least three adults on hand to make certain you don't forget how to breathe. Without three babysitter , you’re completely lost. But Princess, Mr. Shoka, and myself make up those three. Well, I'd happily trade that last one in for a grasshopper. It’s not like I’ve got any use for you. a grasshopper huh? Well at least I work all year round unlike them, I’ll have you know. The problem with being your friend though is figuring out how to spoil you. Oh, By the way, it looks like the Senior Secretary of the department of Civil Affairs won’t be taking action. He must truly cherish Princess. In which case, that means Sakujun...! If he sees the head of the Hong Clan isn’t acting, he won't see a point in pursuing the position of the head of the Sa Clan anymore. So I guess in the end, Sojun was killed for no good reason. At least he was properly buried by his younger brother's own two hands. Koku says he's gonna make his move today. But his opponents are Chusho and Saku. He's well aware of that, yet he’s still acting on his own. I see surprising potential in that young guy. Yes, Well... hopefully that would be true. I'm taking a nap so wake me up when it's time to go. Huh?! What about me?! Let’s see, You have more than enough stamina, and you’ve done nothing but deskwork, you can stay awake. but. That's not my fault. Somehow I don't think you’re being fair at all. goodbye, elder brother. I’m off now. You're going, are you? So you really have made a decision . Yes, I have. Do you mind if I ask a favor? What is it? Please take care of Shunki. I know I could just go ask Mr. Ensei and have nothing to worry about on that end, but...! I understand. And yes I promise you. And just In case I should die...
I won't listen to the rest of that. I’m also not gonna accept any message for Miss Shunki. You should not be speaking of death and die so easily. You've always given me nothing but strong encouragement. I'll do my best. And I won't die that easily! I would go and stop Grandfather and my big Brother Sakujun! I swear it.
Next Episode
We’re finally going to depart for Koren, in order to arrive in time for our assignments as Governors of Sa Province, and to settle all the problems facing us. Now, is everybody ready? Then let's get going!
A government official said to have arrived from Koren has appeared before Shurei, Eigetsu, and the others, as they were busily processing matters relating to the incident.
So You're Mr. Jun Yu from Koren city?
Yes.
Then you decided to come after all!
Is everything all right over there now?
I think for the time being, what's important is that we work together to immediately bring the situation back to normal in Kinka.
Ah, right. Yeah, Of course, You're absolutely right!
Hey, maybe you should properly introduce him to us, rather than just telling us his name?
Don’t worry, we can save that stuff for later.
We've got a mountain-load of work to do!
Say that stuff for later?
It's Always Darkest Before the Dawn
Excuse me, Official Yu. About this document ,
Ah, yes, of course, since it's necessary that this be checked and verified against the taxation records from last year, I'll take care of this for you.
more importantly, I'd like to have your approval on this document.
Right.
Could you stamp this document with your seal as well, please.
sure.
After that, there's this, and this... oh, and this one, too.
Oh, dear, You’ve got quite a lot of work again.
Yes. But you know, if we can bring happiness and peace to the people of Kinka by doing our job like this, I don’t really mind.
right. But just imagine what things could have been like, if we didn’t have those two here to help us out with all of this.
Even though we were appointed as co-governors, we still are total novices to government.
The fact is, as we are now, we don't know left from right, do we?
Right now, our entire job description is just putting our signatures and seal on the documents that they've verified.
Official Yu's assistance has been really helpful. He’s very precise and quick when it comes to this sort of thing.
Come on. Don't just sit around talking, I need a stamp on this too, please.
For calling out loud, why is there so much work to do?!
Official Yu! I'm so, so sorry.
No, it's perfectly all right. None of it got on the documents, so it’s fine.
This is so embarrassing , I'm utterly ashamed of myself.
Yeah, Me too.
It's to be expected at this stage.
Oh Yeah, that's right. actually, you two are doing a whole lot better than I did during my time!
If you don’t mind me saying, that’s not something to brag about. Or are you trying to make excuses for the way you irresponsibly put your seal on documents when you hadn’t even read through them, or how you used to act recklessly whenever you had a spare moment or two?
That couldn’t be helped, Back then, the assassins from the Sa Clan were persistent.
And Besides, that was ten years ago. You certainly have a good memory.
Yes. I remember it very well.
Even in a hundred years, I can never forget your kind act to push me into a manure pool without warning.
But that was to save you from a poisonous arrow!
And besides, thanks to that incident, all those people who used to think you were too cool and calm to approach, they warmed up to you, and started coming to you more often.
Look, Please refrain from making pointless excuses for yourself .
We have More important things to do, the taxation information for last year is on the bookshelf on the north side, second from the right, fifth shelf from the top.
Yes, sir!
Wow, Official Yu and Mr. ensai, really get along well!
Yes, they do! But have you noticed that Ensei's the one running around?
I don’t think I have seen Official Yu get up from his seat a single time.
Is that so?
It makes perfect sense, Ensei's the type of man you'd assume has muscles in his head instead of brains.
He's got to be moving continually, or he gets restless.
Yeah. Exactly. That’s , hey wait just a minute , why would you go say a thing like that?
I understand you buried Sojun Sa in that court yard all by yourself.
Yes. As a member of the Sa Clan, it was the very least I could do for him.
That's very impressive of you.
No, you’re wrong, you guys 're the ones who are impressive.
You were able to chase the Murderous Blades out of Kinka, and liberated it from the hands of the Sa Clan.
Maybe. But we weren’t able to do any of that by ourselves
Even so, you're all incredible!
Especially Miss Shurei, I think.
I should be getting back to work soon.
In comparison, all I can do...!
Listen to me well, Shunki.
Read the stars, and gauge the right moment . And when that moment comes...!
Oh. Miss Shunki!
Wow, So you've come all the way down here, have you?
I guess Your legs have become a lot stronger since you arrived, Miss Shunki!
You've cut your hand on a thorn or something.
we’ll mix some medicine for you, When we get home
I feel kind of bad, your hands were like of a princess’ when you first came to stay with us.
I only wish I had some kind of medicine or herbs that could bring your voice back to you, Miss Shunki.
Boss! Miss Shunki! You’re right on time, I just finished preparing lunch!
You were able to pick quite a lot! Huh!
Those mushrooms are poisonous.
Yoshun, You idiot!
What are you trying to do? embarrass the poor girl?!
If something like that happens, you tell her later, in secret.
You’re right, I’m stupid, I wasn't thinking!
I'm sorry, Miss Shunki! Please forgive me.
Listen, Yoshun!
Miss Shunki was entrusted to us by Ensei Ro. And We have to do everything we can to protect her, right?
But there's no way we will accomplish this important task with half hearted devotion.
Got it!
If we can fulfill this mission, we will mature into a second generation of chivalrous thieves , the Bald Eagles of Sa Province will fly again!
You said it, boss man!
And when that moment comes, you shall do what you need to do, Shunki.
This is delicious! Korin, your skills have improved.
Nonsense. I still hardly compare to you, lady Shurei.
Hey!
Could I have two sweet bean paste buns as well please?
Why should only Princess get more than one?
It's a difference of affection.
never in my life have I been shown so clearly, the difference in the amount of affection someone has for me.
Don't sulk ensei, it’s not just you, Official Yu and Eigetsu only got one each as well.
Yes, But look at mine, mine's the smallest!
Nice try, but They're all the same size!
Fine, then I'll give you half of one of mine.
All right!
A chestnut?
I see. A difference in affection indeed.
I'll go make some more tea!
By the way, I mean to ask Ensei, would you mind filling us in on exactly what's going on in Koren right now?
Such as?
I mean, you made such an effort to get us into Sa Province quickly, but you haven't said a word about moving on since we arrived here.
It's true that we can reach Koren in five days’ travel, even at a relaxed pace, but we only have twenty days before our deadline to arrive and take our post.
If we missed that day, then our post as co-governors would be stripped from us, regardless of the circumstances.
Yes, I realize that. But bear with me a bit longer.
I’ll perform it until we get the latest news on Koren by way of Sho Sai and that sister of his.
I see. But Ensei, will Lieutenant Governor Tei be all right?
Yushun, huh? Yeah, I think he'll be just fine.
That's your answer? Aren't you worried about him?
Yes, that’s right! Until now, as acting governor, he held the highest decision-making Authority in the Provence , so he was still safe.
But the moment we take our posts and he transferees his authority over to us, his life could be in danger from the sa clan!
I think If Yushun heard you said that, he'd be so happy he'd burst into tears.
Yes, he sure would.
In his case, there's no need to worry.
Are you absolutely sure
I’m positive.
Not even Sakujun Sa himself would be able to do anything about Yushun at the moment.
The two of us already decided together that we would transfer all authority as governors to you in the best possible state.
So I ask you to put your trust in Yushun.
You know, it looks like the two of us are truly blessed, aren't we, shurei?
It’s true, sending you to Sa Province was a wise decision by His Majesty.
This will be a ideal first assignment for you.
Given that your predecessor is an unusual Ensei Ro, the unique circumstances regarding your age and gender will not even be an issue to the people of this province.
You’ve got some nerve to say that while I’m sitting right here, of course, you’re quite right.
This place’s always been a province mostly abandoned by the central government.
Deep down, everyone was anxious and ill at ease.
But then people received the good news that truly legitimate governors would be arriving, governors to whom His Majesty had bestowed flowers.
The citizens of the Sa Province were overjoyed upon hearing that.
Why were the people so happy about us receiving a flower?
The flower is proof of His Majesty's absolute trust.
Those with flowers bestowed upon them are rarely assigned to work in other districts.
By Dispatching such governors, his majority is telling the people that he’s clearly committed to pay closer attention to this province.
Not only does bestowing the flower upon you protect you personally, it also spares Sa Province from much of its laments and fears. It's a brilliant move.
There's one more reason why it was good for you to come to Sa Province, princess.
What’s that?
Well, The headquarters of the Merchants Guild in Sa Province is run by Sho Sai's older sister.
Her ability to run things puts men to shame... multiple times, as a matter of fact.
For that reason, there will likely be less prejudice towards a female governor here than in the other provinces.
I believe this will be the most appropriate place for the first female government official.
I can’t believe how much Ryuki thought this assignment through?
Excuse me.
Lord Sho Sai has asked to speak with you.
Oh, so he's arrived already, please, show him in.
well, how was everything?
As of four days ago, By the order of Lieutenant Governor Tei, an official announcement has been issued ordering a complete blockade of all Koren traffic.
What ? A complete blockade?!
That’s certainly a pretty in-your-face move from the sa clan.
The official story is that the two new governors are already in the city, they say to blockade it for safety .
It’s supposed to protect them from any possible danger until the assignment ceremony.
That's ridiculous.
As well, rumors are spreading throughout the city, alleging that the new governors are under the protection of the Sa Clan.
People have interpreted this as a sign you are under Sa clan control and your popularity is declining.
Great. As if things were not already hard enough, we have the Sa Clan spreading preposterous rumors.
What should we do now?
Okay then, why don't we leave tomorrow morning.
We’ll start out first thing, So get to bed early tonight, got it?
The Story of Saiunkoku
Yes?
What is it ensei? I'm busy packing right now,
so I don't have very much time to be chatting.
You did want to leave really early, right.
Say, Princess I was wondering have you talked to Seiran lately?
No. We've both been busy with work I guess.
Sorry to butt in, but Would you mind having a heart to heart talk with him soon?
Ensei certainly doesn't seem like the sort of guy who notices details, but he's really perceptive where it counts!
My lady, so this is where you are.
Oh. Yeah.
Seiran. Let's have some tea together .
You sure about this? there's not much time left for sleep.
If I went to bed now, I don't think I’d be able to wake up in time.
May I ask Why are you making bean paste buns at this time of night?
well...I suppose I !
Is there something bothering you?
Well, it’s just that you're my second favorite person in the world, Seiran.
Are you all right?
W-What's gotten into you, all of a sudden?
I'm just as surprised myself for saying that.
It’s not really like me to say things unintentionally, but you know it kind of came out naturally, didn't it?
Like saying "peach buns are my second favorite in the world".
her second-most favorite person in the world?
Am I supposed to be happy about that or miserable? My lady. Please stop giggling and give me an explanation .
I don't know What I should do.
About what?
Ever since I was a child, I've always seen watching and seeing what crimes my clan commits
I saw how much they did to torment the poor citizen of Sa Province.
And now, even my old brother Sakujun is doing it.
So?
I'm sure that deep down in your heart , you already know what to do without having to ask me.
Believe in yourself.
Do what you feel you have to do, and never mind the rest.
Mr. Ensei...
Thank you very much.
Now, I gotta wonder what's happening over there.
It's been a while since we've sat down and talked like this, hasn't it?
Uh, well, yes, I, I suppose so.
Seiran, Is there something you'd like to ask me?
Like what my lady?
I seem to have caused you a lot of worry and upset because of that incident with that stupid young master.
ask me whatever you want so we can clear the air before we leave.
It's supposed to be my job to support you. I’m Pathetic.
My Lady.
There's the old Seiran. Yes?
Is it all right if I ask you who your number one favorite person is?
it's father, of course.
Even though he's a hopeless father, he's always been my number one.
mother's in a different category all together .
so, My Lady. Do you like Sakujun Sa at all?
Well as far as Seiran’s concern , That’s pretty straightforward.
I don't really have any choice but to answer that I don't really know.
You don't ?
Seiran, I'm sure you understand .
When it comes to this kind of thing, I'm totally unfamiliar with it.
But I Remember the way that mother got along really well with father.
You remember , right?
Yes.
As a child, there was always something to laugh about.
I remember just how lively and fun it always was in our house .
That’s true, but only because madam would insist on making medicinal soup and causing an explosion!
Wait just one moment.
Your medicine will be ready very soon.
Oh, dear, I'm sorry, I scared you. It's all right.
What on earth are you doing?
What if she had been hurt? What would you do then?
My goodness , you can talk?
If I remember correctly, those were the very first words you ever said after you came to live with us.
That's because there was a real risk of you burning yourself.
Yes, But after I would drink mother's special medicinal soup, I would become as healthy as any other child for a while.
Then She teach me how to play the erhu... We went persimmon picking, She teach me all about manners, we even made bean paste buns together.
I think we did as much as we could in a short period, so that we wouldn’t run out of time before I came down with a fever again, or even worse.
But in the end, it wasn't me that time ran out on. It was mother.
The reason I haven't pursued things like love or romance, may be because of mother.
Her death made me really scared. I guess it may have made me afraid to let my guard down and fall in love with someone.
I have no confidence in myself.
Maybe that's why I haven't been making any effort to find a person who's especially important to me.
And although I've always looked away, that man was extremely aggressive.
He was very strange, but he has such a beautiful face, my heart would sometimes start pounding despite itself.
That's certainly a very objective analysis of yourself.
Hey. Why are you laughing?
you probably don't understand because you're a very handsome man too.
But it can be quite important to a normal person whether your looks are good or bad.
That's a very nice thing for you to say. I’m flattered.
For all the trouble that young master was, he was good at exposing that weak point of mine.
or maybe I'm just generally weak, weak against that special kind of pressure anyway.
Sorry, I guess my answer's not making a lot of sense, is it?
No, it's all right. If anything I should be thanking you for thinking so much about my feelings.
Do you really mean that?
That’s not good, now I feel like I’m about to fall fast asleep.
I'll be sure to wake you up in the morning.
Please get as much sleep as you can.
But what about you, Seiran?
I have more stamina, so don't worry about me.
In that case, I think I might go to bed for a little while.
Okay.
I... I still have to take the flower bud back, but...!
That flower ... belongs to me. So I'll do everything I can on my own.
You really shouldn't spoil me... so much. Seiran.
Hey!
Oh, so you noticed that I was here huh?
I was just curious what was going on, since it looked like you were gonna worry yourself to death.
As I thought, All you had to do is talk with her, and your problem would be solved.
I knew things would get better, It's always darkest before the dawn.
It's been a while since I've had any of Princess' steamed buns.
You know , I don't think Princess has any idea just how much you really depend on her.
You’re the type of guy who needs at least three adults on hand to make certain you don't
forget how to breathe.
Without three babysitter , you’re completely lost. But Princess, Mr. Shoka, and myself make up those three.
Well, I'd happily trade that last one in for a grasshopper.
It’s not like I’ve got any use for you.
a grasshopper huh? Well at least I work all year round unlike them, I’ll have you know.
The problem with being your friend though is figuring out how to spoil you.
Oh, By the way, it looks like the Senior Secretary of the department of Civil Affairs won’t be taking action.
He must truly cherish Princess.
In which case, that means Sakujun...!
If he sees the head of the Hong Clan isn’t acting, he won't see a point in pursuing the position of the head of the Sa Clan anymore.
So I guess in the end, Sojun was killed for no good reason.
At least he was properly buried by his younger brother's own two hands.
Koku says he's gonna make his move today. But his opponents are Chusho and Saku.
He's well aware of that, yet he’s still acting on his own.
I see surprising potential in that young guy.
Yes, Well... hopefully that would be true.
I'm taking a nap so wake me up when it's time to go.
Huh?! What about me?!
Let’s see, You have more than enough stamina, and you’ve done nothing but deskwork, you can stay awake.
but. That's not my fault. Somehow I don't think you’re being fair at all.
goodbye, elder brother. I’m off now.
You're going, are you?
So you really have made a decision .
Yes, I have. Do you mind if I ask a favor?
What is it?
Please take care of Shunki.
I know I could just go ask Mr. Ensei and have nothing to worry about on that end, but...!
I understand. And yes I promise you.
And just In case I should die...
I won't listen to the rest of that.
I’m also not gonna accept any message for Miss Shunki.
You should not be speaking of death and die so easily.
You've always given me nothing but strong encouragement.
I'll do my best.
And I won't die that easily!
I would go and stop Grandfather and my big Brother Sakujun!
I swear it.
Next Episode
We’re finally going to depart for Koren, in order to arrive in time for our assignments as Governors of Sa Province, and to settle all the problems facing us.
Now, is everybody ready? Then let's get going!