Sakujun sa, The man who had been controlling the Murderous Blades from behind the scenes, has disappeared. Shortly afterwards, Shurei encountered the Mayor of Kinka, Shin Sai. However, almost immediately… Sakujun Sa! I will not forgive that man.
The Prettier the Flower, the Higher the Branch
So Sojun has died. You may take your leave. Sakujun. To think he has started to make his move. I thought he was no more than a hedonist. I mustn't underestimate him. Is that you, Chusho? E-Elder Brother. the eldest son of the main house? I thought the two of you got along well. Every last heir of the main house has died. As of now, I would be the head of the Sa Clan. It’s quite possible that Sakujun might take after my older brother. The brother who never let anyone see his other side, and who once the opportunity presented itself made a bloodbath of all the men of the main house. until Koren then . My Lady. Such beautiful weather. Lady Shurei? Oh, sorry, the tea's ready? Thank you very much. Korin, by the way I'm really glad you were safe. That's supposed to be my line! You were unconscious for so long, I’ll have you know that I was so worried I couldn’t even sleep. I was only sleeping because I was exhausted, isn’t that right, Eigetsu? That's right. You probably didn’t rest much during your long voyage, so this was just the result of it. You Get out already! I can take care of everything here on my own, so scram you quack doctor! Uh, um...! In that case, please take this medicine with your tea, shurei. Thank you. What's wrong? You're being very cold to him? But, Lady Shurei! He was just terrible to me. He collapsed after Lord Ryuren made him drink some wine, so I was trying to take care of him, and then suddenly Move it, out of my way, girl. and Saying that, he pushed me away! Well, um, that's because...! I don’t like those kinds of people, and that’s that. Lady Shurei! This is no laughing matter! But I haven't seen you so lively in quite some time, it’s nice, Korin. I guess We have Eigetsu to thank for that. Hey, Korin, please smile again. The truth is, I really like seeing you smile. Lady shurei. And Thank you so much for all your efforts in becoming my replacement. You did it even though you were in great danger. Princess, do you have a moment? If you don’t mind, There's someone here who would like to speak with you. speak with me? What is it? Nothing, I'm just glad to see you're feeling better today. I'm so sorry I worried you. I'm alright now. Good to hear, Koku, come on in. Koku? I'm pleased to meet you, I'm Kokujun Sa. You’re Kokujun. That person's younger brother. they don't look at all alike. Princess? Oh, I'm sorry. It’s just that, even though you're brothers, you seem like completely different people. That's true, I guess. The oldest, Sojun, was always very hot-tempered, and in the other extreme , the second son, Sakujun is so beautiful you’d never guess we were related. And as I’m sure you can see, as the third son, I’m no better than a commoner. No, I disagree. If it weren't for your bravery and support, I probably never would’ve been able to see Eigetsu and Korin alive again. Thank you for protecting the people who mean so much to me. I’m in your debt. Um... I, uh, I have a small favor I'd like to ask of you. Yes, What is it? It’s about my elder brother, Sojun's remains, Would it be all right if I could see to his burial all by myself ? It's been a while since your last visit home, hasn't it, Enjun? The Chrysanthemum Residence. The chrysanthemum emblem out front has been scratched out, and the Sa Clan crest, the Profusion of Peacocks, has been carved in its place. It’s Sakujun’s doing. To think that he’s the one who would dare to erase the chrysanthemum, the flower specially bestowed upon you by the previous king. He’s finally making his move, The monster, who at the age of fifteen manipulated the Murderous Blades however he pleased... Let's see. Where should I be taking this? To the new co-governors perhaps ? Or maybe To where Yushun tei’s waiting? Or perhaps I should give it to Eiki? I must say I'm glad to see that you're feeling better. Wait a minute , you're...! let me introduce myself. I'm Sai Sho, head of the Merchants Guild's Special District of Kinka. Sai... Then you must be the son of the Mayor! And you’re the leader of the Special District at such a young age? May I point it out that I'm nowhere near as young as you two, I’m a little hurt that you’re so surprised. I'm sorry. It’s just that I assumed the other man I met was the special district leader. No, this guy really is the head of the Merchants Guild in kinka. Not only that, but he has an older twin sister who’s lead of the provincial branch. In other words, together these two siblings control all the commerce in Sa Province. I’ve heard the Merchants Guild places great importance on practicality. Becoming the leader at such a young age, so he must be an incredibly capable business man. Governor Hong, the time has come to fulfill my promise to you. You have my solemn word as leader, the Merchants Guild of Kinka will devote eighty percent of its strength to the new governors. Eighty percent? That's a merchant for you. It has been a constant principle of mine to always keep some strength in reserve in case of emergency. Well, I certainly don't dislike that way of thinking. Princess’s always looking for ways to save costs. Well, then I'm sure we'll get along just fine. I'll get in touch with my elder sister. We will also provide you with an ample loan. Of course, we'll be claiming due compensation. Is that compensation something we'll be able to pay ? Our price is that you’ll help the merchants guild better carry out business in this province, you can best do that by bringing order to the land, driving out the sa clan’s tyranny that has become so entrenched. And governing the land in a manner fair to business ventures. How does that sound, governor hong? You're extremly generous to accept payment long after the fact. However, we won't be giving you any breaks when we collect. I could discuss this with Eigetsu, but I'm sure he'd have the same thoughts as I do. Ensei, it appearswe're going to be in serious debt before we even take office. Will you help? A debt With Sho on your case, you're gonna have to work extra hard to pay that one off. I look forward to it! Then it seems we have a deal. We’ll work out the terms before leaving for Koren, if that’s acceptable for you. Governor To is currently working with my father getting the disturbance in town under control, so we'll begin with just you. Yes.
The Story of Saiunkoku
Would you hurry up and go home?! Yes, Please go home, mister Ryuren. Thank you so much for bringing the governor seal and charm. Now You can finally return to your journey. Mr. Ryuren. Please visit us again once things have settled down a little bit. But kindred spirit number one and number two. Please! Just Go home! We don't want to get you dragged into this any further than you already have been.. I was staying so I could get dragged into things further...! There’re Only two people in the world, kindred spirit number one and number two, who have the power to take advantage of Ryuren Ran. It was the right thing to do, right? Come in. Please, Excuse me. I’ve brought some tea for you. Thank you. Say, Korin... mind if I ask you something? Yes? I ask only in a innocent sense. It’s about Advisor enjun Sa, What was he to you? What's that? A reminder of him. Lord enjun was everything to me. If it were for his sake, I would have no regrets even throwing away my own life. Is that... love though? I don't really know. It’s Just... I wanted to exist for his sake. I had no hesitation dirtying my hands in sin for him. So, maybe the word love wouldn’t really be suitable to explain the things that I felt. I believed that I was the one person who cared the most about Lord Enjun, more than anyone else in the world. But I was mistaken, I can't even begin to compare with his wife. Advisor Sa's wife? That must be Lady Eiki, I assume. Yes. When I compared My feelings with hers, they seemed so tiny When she first welcomed me to Sa Province when I returned , Lady Eiki told me something I’d always remember. Choosing Enjun to adore at such a young age, shows you have great judgment in character. The man I chose is the best man in all the country, so I can understand all too well how you must feel. However, it must have been hard. While he may have been the best man, he was always the worst lover when it came to the woman in his life. Those were the very first words that Lady Eiki said to me. She's an very strong woman, isn't she? Yes. I think it was that moment that I realized deep down in my heart that to Lord Enjun, she was the most important person. Even though they lived far apart, their commitment to each other never wavered. They loved each other even though they were apart. I see. There are many different forms of love, aren't there? So I take it this is your true natural showing itself at last? What do you want, Lord Sakujun? You've been locked up in this dungeon for over half a year. Tell me, How could you not get bored in there, Yushun Tei? Are you joking? I would love to be bored If that were possible, Unfortunately, there’s just simply too much work to be done. If you have no business here, then please leave. You're no fun. I'm just very busy right now. Lord Sakujun, what is that? What do you think it is? Hey, Yushun. Isn't it strange? It’s so mysterious because the simple hairpin decorated a certain woman’s hair, it now has exceptional meaning. I have never Felt this way before now Love, is it? Yes, my first real infatuation. Spring has come late into my life, I’m already in the twenty-ninth year since my birth into this world.. I don't care to have you warding off your boredom by making advances toward my dear superior. I suggest that you think things over quickly and return that flower you have in your hand. I truly believe that I must’ve been blessed to meet that noblewoman and hear her beautiful eru music. I could very well go though my entire life and never again be able to find a person who captures my attention so thoroughly. Should I ever grow weary of that music? I feel that I would lose all reason to go on living and simply fade away. They say the prettier the flower, the higher the branch, but I will get that flower rest assured . I will have her, no matter what it takes. By the way, Grandfather wishes to make use of your authority as acting provincial governor, he wishes to have you seal off korin immediately . Would you be so kind as to tell me why? The new co-governors have yet to enter Koren city properly . Exactly. And if I refuse? I'm guessing some bad things could happen in Koren. It's all right, Yushun Tei. Your superiors should still be able to enter the capital even after it's been locked. Isn't that right? Until next time. Everything that needs to be done has already been set in motion. There’s no reason for fear and doubt, it’s all just a matter of time now, Lord Sakujun. To think that my oldest brother , Sojun, will rest in a place like this all on his own. It’s true that I was afraid of you, but I never hated you big brother. The Sa Clan is making a great mistake. As a member of the family, I intend to do as much as I can to set things right again. I must stop my big brother Sakujun. second son of the Sa Clan and Shurei? That’s right, Lord Reishin sent her a personal letter to confirm matters regarding that man’s proposal . There should be no mistake about it. Sakujun Sa. He's the grandson of Advisor Sa's younger brother Chusho, if I’m not mistaken. Rumor has it that he's a completely hedonistic playboy who spends all of his time messing around. Impressive, Ran Clan. You're pretty well informed when it comes to good gossips on the seven clans of color. Well, Lord Reishin has already taken an action, right? Is this sakujun still alive after that? Yeah. Wow. Then he must be either clover, stubborn or both. One thing’s for sure, he's not just some simple hedonist. Don’t underestimate him. There may be more disturbances, much like there were when Advisor Sa took over the main branch of the clan. All right. As soon as We get all of this work completed, we need to head to Koren as quickly as possible. It's Gan Lu tea. Don’t you remember , I promised to make lots of it for you back at the inn in Sakyo. My Lady. yes? Am I , am I a special person to you, my lady? And What about that man, The man who said he loves you. Please tell me, What is he to you? That man... was like Ryuki. They are not alike! You’re wrong, they're very similar in some ways. They're both adults [who act like] they are children . Yet they're complete opposites. That's why...! That's why...? I guess it’s just that He leaves a long-lasting impression, huh? You haven't once called him by his real name, have you, my lady? Is it that you don’t want to acknowledge it? The fact That he is actually a member of the Sa Clan? No, It's not anything like that. It's very unusual for you to lie to me, my lady. Seiran. That man is too dangerous. There’s nothing in him but eternal darkness. Please don't get dragged into that. And don't let yourself be deceived by him. He may say things like he loves you more than anyone... But Those words are lies! You haven't tied your hair back. Did that man say something to you? Aha, Just as I thought, You look much nicer with your hair down. One day, you will fall in love. I know that, it’s something I've been aware of for a long time now. Seiran. But if he’s the one you fall for, you should know that I would be a much better choice. Understand my lady, I want you to be happy. I remain by your side for that purpose alone. That’s why, I won’t forgive him. You bastard , you have the guts to pick a fight with me? Now I admit you have some courage to do so after knowing that I am Prince Seien. Sakujun Sa! And as for you, come To the provincial capital of Koren. I'll be waiting for you.
Next Episode
We need to hurry to Koren. We also have to find And free Lieutenant Governor Yushun Tei, who's been held captive. Huh? Who are you? What? You're Jun Yu from Koren? You know Ensei?!
Shortly afterwards, Shurei encountered the Mayor of Kinka, Shin Sai.
However, almost immediately…
Sakujun Sa!
I will not forgive that man.
The Prettier the Flower, the Higher the Branch
So Sojun has died.
You may take your leave.
Sakujun. To think he has started to make his move.
I thought he was no more than a hedonist. I mustn't underestimate him.
Is that you, Chusho?
E-Elder Brother.
the eldest son of the main house?
I thought the two of you got along well.
Every last heir of the main house has died.
As of now, I would be the head of the Sa Clan.
It’s quite possible that Sakujun might take after my older brother.
The brother who never let anyone see his other side, and who once the opportunity presented itself made a bloodbath of all the men of the main house.
until Koren then .
My Lady.
Such beautiful weather.
Lady Shurei?
Oh, sorry, the tea's ready? Thank you very much.
Korin, by the way I'm really glad you were safe.
That's supposed to be my line!
You were unconscious for so long,
I’ll have you know that I was so worried I couldn’t even sleep.
I was only sleeping because I was exhausted, isn’t that right, Eigetsu?
That's right. You probably didn’t rest much during your long voyage, so this was just the result of it.
You Get out already!
I can take care of everything here on my own, so scram you quack doctor!
Uh, um...!
In that case, please take this medicine with your tea, shurei.
Thank you.
What's wrong?
You're being very cold to him?
But, Lady Shurei!
He was just terrible to me.
He collapsed after Lord Ryuren made him drink some wine, so I was trying to take care of him, and then suddenly
Move it, out of my way, girl.
and Saying that, he pushed me away!
Well, um, that's because...!
I don’t like those kinds of people, and that’s that.
Lady Shurei! This is no laughing matter!
But I haven't seen you so lively in quite some time, it’s nice, Korin.
I guess We have Eigetsu to thank for that.
Hey, Korin, please smile again.
The truth is, I really like seeing you smile.
Lady shurei.
And Thank you so much for all your efforts in becoming my replacement.
You did it even though you were in great danger.
Princess, do you have a moment?
If you don’t mind, There's someone here who would like to speak with you.
speak with me?
What is it?
Nothing, I'm just glad to see you're feeling better today.
I'm so sorry I worried you. I'm alright now.
Good to hear, Koku, come on in.
Koku?
I'm pleased to meet you, I'm Kokujun Sa.
You’re Kokujun.
That person's younger brother.
they don't look at all alike.
Princess?
Oh, I'm sorry. It’s just that, even though you're brothers, you seem like completely different people.
That's true, I guess. The oldest, Sojun, was always very hot-tempered, and in the other extreme , the second son, Sakujun is so beautiful you’d never guess we were related.
And as I’m sure you can see, as the third son, I’m no better than a commoner.
No, I disagree.
If it weren't for your bravery and support, I probably never would’ve been able to see Eigetsu and Korin alive again.
Thank you for protecting the people who mean so much to me. I’m in your debt.
Um...
I, uh, I have a small favor I'd like to ask of you.
Yes, What is it?
It’s about my elder brother, Sojun's remains, Would it be all right if I could see to his burial all by myself ?
It's been a while since your last visit home, hasn't it, Enjun?
The Chrysanthemum Residence.
The chrysanthemum emblem out front has been scratched out, and the Sa Clan crest, the Profusion of Peacocks, has been carved in its place.
It’s Sakujun’s doing.
To think that he’s the one who would dare to erase the chrysanthemum, the flower specially bestowed upon you by the previous king.
He’s finally making his move, The monster, who at the age of fifteen manipulated the Murderous Blades however he pleased...
Let's see. Where should I be taking this? To the new co-governors perhaps ?
Or maybe To where Yushun tei’s waiting?
Or perhaps I should give it to Eiki?
I must say I'm glad to see that you're feeling better.
Wait a minute , you're...!
let me introduce myself.
I'm Sai Sho, head of the Merchants Guild's Special District of Kinka.
Sai... Then you must be the son of the Mayor!
And you’re the leader of the Special District at such a young age?
May I point it out that I'm nowhere near as young as you two, I’m a little hurt that you’re so surprised.
I'm sorry. It’s just that I assumed the other man I met was the special district leader.
No, this guy really is the head of the Merchants Guild in kinka.
Not only that, but he has an older twin sister who’s lead of the provincial branch.
In other words, together these two siblings control all the commerce in Sa Province.
I’ve heard the Merchants Guild places great importance on practicality.
Becoming the leader at such a young age, so he must be an incredibly capable business man.
Governor Hong, the time has come to fulfill my promise to you.
You have my solemn word as leader, the Merchants Guild of Kinka will devote eighty percent of its strength to the new governors.
Eighty percent?
That's a merchant for you.
It has been a constant principle of mine to always keep some strength in reserve in case of emergency.
Well, I certainly don't dislike that way of thinking.
Princess’s always looking for ways to save costs.
Well, then I'm sure we'll get along just fine.
I'll get in touch with my elder sister.
We will also provide you with an ample loan.
Of course, we'll be claiming due compensation.
Is that compensation something we'll be able to pay ?
Our price is that you’ll help the merchants guild better carry out business in this province, you can best do that by bringing order to the land, driving out the sa clan’s tyranny that has become so entrenched.
And governing the land in a manner fair to business ventures.
How does that sound, governor hong?
You're extremly generous to accept payment long after the fact.
However, we won't be giving you any breaks when we collect.
I could discuss this with Eigetsu, but I'm sure he'd have the same thoughts as I do.
Ensei, it appearswe're going to be in serious debt before we even take office.
Will you help?
A debt With Sho on your case, you're gonna have to work extra hard to pay that one off.
I look forward to it!
Then it seems we have a deal.
We’ll work out the terms before leaving for Koren, if that’s acceptable for you.
Governor To is currently working with my father getting the disturbance in town under control,
so we'll begin with just you.
Yes.
The Story of Saiunkoku
Would you hurry up and go home?!
Yes, Please go home, mister Ryuren.
Thank you so much for bringing the governor seal and charm.
Now You can finally return to your journey.
Mr. Ryuren.
Please visit us again once things have settled down a little bit.
But kindred spirit number one and number two.
Please! Just Go home! We don't want to get you dragged into this any further than you already have been..
I was staying so I could get dragged into things further...!
There’re Only two people in the world, kindred spirit number one and number two, who have the power to take advantage of Ryuren Ran.
It was the right thing to do, right?
Come in.
Please, Excuse me.
I’ve brought some tea for you.
Thank you.
Say, Korin... mind if I ask you something?
Yes?
I ask only in a innocent sense.
It’s about Advisor enjun Sa, What was he to you?
What's that?
A reminder of him.
Lord enjun was everything to me.
If it were for his sake, I would have no regrets even throwing away my own life.
Is that... love though?
I don't really know. It’s Just... I wanted to exist for his sake.
I had no hesitation dirtying my hands in sin for him.
So, maybe the word love wouldn’t really be suitable to explain the things that I felt.
I believed that I was the one person who cared the most about Lord Enjun, more than anyone else in the world.
But I was mistaken, I can't even begin to compare with his wife.
Advisor Sa's wife? That must be Lady Eiki, I assume.
Yes. When I compared My feelings with hers, they seemed so tiny
When she first welcomed me to Sa Province when I returned , Lady Eiki told me something I’d always remember.
Choosing Enjun to adore at such a young age, shows you have great judgment in character.
The man I chose is the best man in all the country, so I can understand all too well how you must feel.
However, it must have been hard.
While he may have been the best man, he was always the worst lover when it came to the woman in his life.
Those were the very first words that Lady Eiki said to me.
She's an very strong woman, isn't she?
Yes. I think it was that moment that I realized deep down in my heart that to Lord Enjun, she was the most important person.
Even though they lived far apart, their commitment to each other never wavered.
They loved each other even though they were apart. I see.
There are many different forms of love, aren't there?
So I take it this is your true natural showing itself at last?
What do you want, Lord Sakujun?
You've been locked up in this dungeon for over half a year.
Tell me, How could you not get bored in there, Yushun Tei?
Are you joking? I would love to be bored If that were possible,
Unfortunately, there’s just simply too much work to be done.
If you have no business here, then please leave.
You're no fun.
I'm just very busy right now.
Lord Sakujun, what is that?
What do you think it is?
Hey, Yushun. Isn't it strange?
It’s so mysterious because the simple hairpin decorated a certain woman’s hair, it now has exceptional meaning. I have never Felt this way before now
Love, is it?
Yes, my first real infatuation.
Spring has come late into my life, I’m already in the twenty-ninth year since my birth into this world..
I don't care to have you warding off your boredom by making advances toward my dear superior.
I suggest that you think things over quickly and return that flower you have in your hand.
I truly believe that I must’ve been blessed to meet that noblewoman and hear her beautiful eru music.
I could very well go though my entire life and never again be able to find a person who captures my attention so thoroughly.
Should I ever grow weary of that music?
I feel that I would lose all reason to go on living and simply fade away.
They say the prettier the flower, the higher the branch, but I will get that flower rest assured .
I will have her, no matter what it takes.
By the way, Grandfather wishes to make use of your authority as acting provincial governor, he wishes to have you seal off korin immediately .
Would you be so kind as to tell me why?
The new co-governors have yet to enter Koren city properly .
Exactly.
And if I refuse?
I'm guessing some bad things could happen in Koren.
It's all right, Yushun Tei.
Your superiors should still be able to enter the capital even after it's been locked.
Isn't that right?
Until next time.
Everything that needs to be done has already been set in motion.
There’s no reason for fear and doubt, it’s all just a matter of time now, Lord Sakujun.
To think that my oldest brother , Sojun, will rest in a place like this all on his own. It’s true that I was afraid of you, but I never hated you big brother.
The Sa Clan is making a great mistake.
As a member of the family, I intend to do as much as I can to set things right again.
I must stop my big brother Sakujun.
second son of the Sa Clan and Shurei?
That’s right, Lord Reishin sent her a personal letter to confirm matters regarding that man’s proposal .
There should be no mistake about it.
Sakujun Sa. He's the grandson of Advisor Sa's younger brother Chusho, if I’m not mistaken.
Rumor has it that he's a completely hedonistic playboy who spends all of his time messing around.
Impressive, Ran Clan.
You're pretty well informed when it comes to good gossips on the seven clans of color.
Well, Lord Reishin has already taken an action, right?
Is this sakujun still alive after that?
Yeah.
Wow. Then he must be either clover, stubborn or both.
One thing’s for sure, he's not just some simple hedonist.
Don’t underestimate him.
There may be more disturbances, much like there were when Advisor Sa took over the main branch of the clan.
All right.
As soon as We get all of this work completed, we need to head to Koren as quickly as possible.
It's Gan Lu tea.
Don’t you remember , I promised to make lots of it for you back at the inn in Sakyo.
My Lady.
yes?
Am I , am I a special person to you, my lady?
And What about that man, The man who said he loves you.
Please tell me, What is he to you?
That man... was like Ryuki.
They are not alike!
You’re wrong, they're very similar in some ways.
They're both adults [who act like] they are children .
Yet they're complete opposites.
That's why...!
That's why...?
I guess it’s just that He leaves a long-lasting impression, huh?
You haven't once called him by his real name, have you, my lady?
Is it that you don’t want to acknowledge it?
The fact That he is actually a member of the Sa Clan?
No, It's not anything like that.
It's very unusual for you to lie to me, my lady.
Seiran.
That man is too dangerous.
There’s nothing in him but eternal darkness.
Please don't get dragged into that.
And don't let yourself be deceived by him.
He may say things like he loves you more than anyone...
But Those words are lies!
You haven't tied your hair back.
Did that man say something to you?
Aha, Just as I thought, You look much nicer with your hair down.
One day, you will fall in love.
I know that, it’s something I've been aware of for a long time now.
Seiran.
But if he’s the one you fall for, you should know that I would be a much better choice.
Understand my lady, I want you to be happy. I remain by your side for that purpose alone.
That’s why, I won’t forgive him.
You bastard , you have the guts to pick a fight with me?
Now I admit you have some courage to do so after knowing that I am Prince Seien.
Sakujun Sa!
And as for you, come To the provincial capital of Koren.
I'll be waiting for you.
Next Episode
We need to hurry to Koren.
We also have to find And free Lieutenant Governor Yushun Tei, who's been held captive.
Huh? Who are you? What? You're Jun Yu from Koren?
You know Ensei?!