Shuurei meets Ryuuren Ran, the eccentric brother of the General of the Shaorin Army.
Show: The Story of Saiunkoku
Saiunkoku is a world of eight provinces or houses, each named after a different colour. The new Emperor, Shi Ryuuki, has gained for a reputation for being uninterested in courtly matters and for flaunting his love for men. Shuurei, although born of the important Kou family, has difficulty making ends meet. She easily accepts an invitation to be the Emperor's concubine in order to turn him into a good ruler. The mysterious Seiran, a young man who was adopted by her father, goes with her as Ryuuki's bodyguard. Entering the imperial palace revives Shuurei's dream of being a court official, and, together with the many companions she meets along the way, continues moving bravely forward while trying to fend off the Emperor's advances.
Casting Pearls Before Swine
After participating in a swordfighting tournament, Ryuuki discovers his exiled brother Seien is closer at hand than he previously believed.
The Talented Hawk Hides its Talons
Ryuuki averts an attempt to assassinate Shuurei by drinking the poison intended for her.
A Frog in a Well Does Not Know the Great Ocean
Shuurei teaches Ryuuki about daily life by taking him on an excursion through the Imperial City.