Saiunkoku season 2 has come to a close, yet I’m still stuck in the time warp of yesteryears~ I haven’t even got past the halfway mark of watching and blogging it. If you hadn’t figured out by now, I suffered from a Saiunkoku burnout months ago, primarily due to my so-called Saiunkoku passion and patriotism. With the lack of subs for the series, I exerted much effort to write uber detailed lengthy narratives for each episode, and God knows how that led to my own downfall.

First off, among the series I was blogging at that time (Kaze no Stigma, Emily of New Moon, Saiunkoku), Saiunkoku proved to be the most challenging. Unlike the usual animes out there with a modern setting, Saiunkoku requires knowledge of more advanced Japanese grammar patterns. Knowledge on political stuff as well as the technicalities of the Saiunkoku World was also necessary, to understand and provide a detailed summary for much of the events in the series.

My Japanese knowledge is far from great; Hence, I relied on Chinese subs for additional help to understand Saiunkoku. Though my knowledge in Chinese and Japanese was enough for me to discern the errors of the Chinese subs, it proved to be insufficient for the detailed summaries I had to write. Unlike Impz, who has a grade-A Chinese, my Chinese knowledge is like that of a toddler (I might be exaggerating on this a little bit, but I know for sure that my Chinese suck). As such, I relied on the novels for additional help. Being able to read the actual dialogues and explanation of the events provided more ease in understanding each episode，since listening to mere Japanese audio dialogues (and looking at the Chinese text which I’m not all too familiar with) proved to be insufficient @_@

But still, that was not enough. Doing the summary or ‘narrative’, as some people have termed it, doesn’t come so easy, especially for someone who neglected reading books most of her life. Many times I would want to describe a certain situation, but I couldn’t find the words to express it. I would sometimes rewatch the episode for four times, or even more, just to be able to describe certain scenes. Thanks to that, it took me HOURSS (or days?) just to finish the ’summary’, which I deemed to be the essential part of my Saiunkoku posts.

More than pleasure, it became a pressure, made even worse by slacking off from blogging during my Japan trip. I struggled to break free from the pile of Saiunkoku backlogs I left behind, and managed to churn out my episode 14 post after months. I continued on with episode 15. I enjoyed watching it, I wrote down my thoughts, but then I couldn’t finish my ’summary’. Months passed and I redirected my attention to other stuff instead, as a means to cope with this burnout.

Blogs were never meant to be a substitute for fansubs, that I learned the HARD way. Now even my enjoyment for show(s) (Saiunkoku and Emily of New Moon, even OverDrive perhaps) were impeded because of this summary burnout. Know what I should’ve done instead of those painstaking summaries? To do what I do best, fangurling, emoing, and basically, just having fun~!

I haven’t gotten myself to watch the rest of the Saiunkoku episodes (as well as Emily of New Moon), because of this summary blogging horror I faced. This time around, perhaps I’ll be able to watch it and thoroughly enjoy it, as I do so without burdening myself with making the summary or any blog post. Allow the show itself to put words into my mouth, and compel me to write down my thoughts about it. But of course I can’t do that right now. I’m preoccupied enough with other shows I’m watching and blogging, which is gonna increase even more, with the dawn of a New Spring Season~ I’ve learned my lesson, hence I’ll be cutting myself some slack in summarizing and just enjoy writing down whatever stuff comes into my mind about the coming shows With less summary, I can also focus more on my ‘deep fryings’, hopefully~ :3

So now, I’m officially dropping Saiunkoku and Emily of New Moon from my blogging list (boy was that hard… it took me months-worth of ‘denial’ x__x), but I do wish more people will watch these two wonderful series, especially now that fansubs are coming out (for Emily of New Moon in particular) Hopefully, I’ll still be able to pimp these shows in the near future. Someday~ ;___;

Special thanks to saa-chan for the wonderful Saiunkoku scans~

The episode starts with a flashback of the conversation between Shuuran and Kourin, who was sent a message regarding the plan Shuurei has to save the villagers. Shuuran hands her a sleep-inducing medicine to be mixed with the water for the villagers, so the guards will think of them as dead and allow them to escape once they have been carried out. Kourin has to pass some message to Eigetsu as well, so she makes the jar of water tumble so the guards will let her out to get some water. The scene cuts to the camp, where Ryuuren heads to where Eigetsu is and Riou follows after him.

Kourin heads to the area she asked the old man about in the previous episode, and finally finds Eigetsu in his tortured state. Eigetsu regains consciousness and wonders why Kourin is there, but he gets a scolding instead. Kourin denies that she’s been looking for Eigetsu, telling him that she only wanted to lash out her anger and give him a beating for what he did. But seeing Eigetsu suffering this way turned all her anger into sadness and grief, as she thinks of what he’s been through. She gives Eigetsu the message from Shuurei and refuses to leave until she’s able to save him. Eigetsu insists her to leave because everything Shuurei has done will be laid to waste if she gets caught.

Kourin remains stubborn and Eigetsu makes her realize that staying here will cause nothing but death to everyone, including the villagers and Eigetsu who supposedly still have the hope for survival. “I hate people who choose death”, says Eigetsu, as he makes Kourin realize the promise she made with Shuurei to save the captives. He adds that both he and Shuurei can’t run away from their responsibilities, which is why he wants Kourin to save these people he holds dear in his heart, in his behalf. Eigetsu assures her that he’ll find a way to escape on his own, so she should just escape with the villagers and not come to his aid.

“Don’t get so full of yourself!”, retorts Kourin, who refuses to simply listen to what he says. Instead, she demands Eigetsu to promise her that he’ll stay alive until he could get to see her again. Eigetsu hesitates for a second as he thinks of the little time he has left to live, but finally vows to the promise. “I promise… so please don’t cry anymore”, says Eigetsu, as he shares a tender kiss with Kourin.

Back in the camp, Shuurei wakes up and finds that both Ryuuren and Riou are no longer around. Ensei comes back together with Shuuran, who isn’t surprised at Riou’s disappearance. Shuuran tells them that Riou is not from Sekie. He just came one time and helped attend to the patients there, but tells her that he’s going to leave after he finishes some tasks he has to do. Ryuuren on the other hand went ahead of them to Eizan but wasn’t able to come across Ensei as he most likely took the longer route.

Just as planned, the guard start carrying out the bodies of the prisoners who were thought to be dead, and Seiran gives the guard a rough welcome outside. Ryuuren easily knocks down the two guards standing on his way to meet Eigetsu, remarking how graceless they are for hindering their reunion.

Seiran infiltrates into the cult’s headquarters and carries the last of the villagers held in captivity. Kourin heads back to where Eigetsu is, refusing to follow what he told her to do. Ensei proceeds to Eizan with Shuurei, leaving Shuuran and Tou Roushi in Sekie village, which has now become all quiet because of the great number of casualties from the disease. Shuurei wonders how Seiran is doing at this time, and Ensei assures her there’s nothing for her to worry about.

Shuuran thinks about the people of Sekie who could’ve been saved by the treatment if Jasenkyou didn’t spread all those false rumors, and exclaims that she’ll never forgive them from going this far just to call out both her and Eigetsu. Ensei fully agrees with this, and says that they’re going to resolve this matter within the day. Shuurei wavers for a moment, as she thinks about how she’s going to confront “Senya” if he turns out to be no one else but Sakujun himself. Seiran finishes their task and proceeds to go back, and smiles in peace as he sees Shuurei safe with Ensei.

Two men from the Hyou clan informs “Senya” about the soon arrival of Shuurei, who has been prepared a trap in a room with an invisible circle. “Senya” says that luring Shuurei into that place will be the last of his task, so there’s no more need for him to stay in Doushu’s body which was simply used as a decoy for Eigetsu. He thinks of possessing Eigetsu’s body instead, believing that he’s going to die any moment soon. “Senya” thinks that with Eigetsu’s body, he will no longer be considered useless since his mother will need him, and presumes that Yougetsu will even be easier to control once he takes hold of his body as opposed to the stubborn Eigetsu. The messengers take his suggestion into consideration, and “Senya” waits for Shuurei to arrive. Shuurei and Ensei arrive in the headquarters and finds the guards knocked down by Ryuuren earlier. Shuurei was surprised to see that Ryuuren got pass the guards majestically through an upfront attack, and Ensei remarks that Ryuuren has always been that way.

Eigetsu who still lies in captivity notices how he’s gradually losing his strength, and scoffs at himself for having told told Kourin that he’ll find a way to escape with his own strength with all pride. Eigetsu wonders if someone will come and help him, as his consciousness is starting to grow faint as well. He looks up to the man that touches his face, and recognizes him as Sakujun. Eigetsu sees this as a chance to confront him, something which he’s been wanting to do ever since Sakujun died. He doesn’t intend to criticize Sakujun for his laxity and selfishness because it’s what he chose to do with his life. Eigetsu considers Sakujun as a hopeless guy, but what makes him really infuriated is the fact that he chose to kill himself, without even realizing just how valuable this thing is that he decided to throw away. He threw away his life when there are tons of people who desire to live, especially Eigetsu who even promised his beloved Kourin that he’s going to stay alive. Eigetsu’s life is running out and there’s nothing he can do about it.

Eigetsu was really happy to see that Kourin went all the way to find him, but what he really wants is to be able to live even a little longer just so he can spend more time with the people he loves. Sakujun on the other hand completely threw his life away together without thinking a bit of this supposedly future. Instead, he even made Shuurei grieve and cry even after his death, and Eigetsu considers him the worst of all people for making the woman he loves suffer like that. Eigetsu might have done nothing else but make Kourin cry, but he considers himself to be far better than Sakujun is. Eigetsu thinks that if only he had more time, he will certainly invite Sakujun for a tea to slowly lecture him more about this. Sakujun pats him on the head, to which Eigetsu lets out a complaint “I am neither a squirrel nor a mouse, I am angry”, and he finally loses consciousness.

Ryuuren searches for Eigetsu and finally finds him lying on the floor, freed from his shackles. Eigetsu was surprised to see Ryuuren in his plain clothing, and even more so when he hugs him tight, happy as he was to see that he’s safe. Eigetsu thinks that Ryuuren was the one who saved him, and wonders if the Sakujun he saw earlier was real. Ryuuren thinks of the time time he made him drink sake (way back in the first season, where Eigetsu was captured together with Ryuuren and Kourin by Sa Soujun and were surrounded by his men, and Ryuuren made Ensei drink the sake to make Yougetsu appear - episode 26) and thinks that he endangered his life by doing that. Eigetsu however tells him that there’s nothing wrong with that because he actually did that to save him.

Ryuuren considers himself a failure as a friend for what he did, but Eigetsu assures him that he loves him and regards him as an irreplaceable person in his life. Nothing has ever changed in their friendship, according to Eigetsu, and believes that Ryuuren has certainly showed how a true friend he is just by coming all the way to see him. Eigetsu adds that he wants to remain as Ryuuren’s friend up until the end, and wonders if he wants to sever that friendship now. Ryuuren of course never thought of doing that, and even says that he’ll do anything to keep him from dying. Eigetsu sees that Ryuuren has been desperately looking for the answer to this and was happy to see that he thought of him this much.

Ryuuren continues to grieve at how powerless he is over the circumstance Eigetsu’s in, and wonders if there’s really nothing he can do for him. Eigetsu then he asks that he stay with him until the end, and accompany him someplace. Ryuuren is more than happy to be able to do this for Eigetsu, and says that he’ll take him wherever he wants to go. They head out of the cave and runs into Kourin along the way but Ryuuren simply ignores her and walks farther away from her. Ryuuren thought that Eigetsu would not want Kourin to get involved in this mess, but Eigetsu tells him it’s alright as he makes him stop for a moment. Kourin catches up with them and tells Eigetsu that he’s no longer going to listen to his advice, which she has also told him before. She has finished everything she had to do before coming to meet Eigetsu, which is why she’s going with him no matter what.

Contrary to the reaction Kourin was expecting, Eigetsu welcomed her presence and tells her that he also wants to be with her until the end. Kourin thinks of how crafty Eigetsu is, that he told her before to go back and leave him, yet now he’s asking her to stay with him. She wipes away her tears and was filled with happiness at the thought that she’ll be able to accompany Eigetsu. Ryuuren then calls Kourin as “Bosom friend #2’s bosom friend”, much to her puzzlement.

Shuurei heads to where “Senya” is together with Ensei, and once again thinks of the possibility that the person waiting for them is Sakujun. Shuurei comes face to face with “Senya”, who is neither Sakujun nor someone she knows of.

Thoughts

I was really moved to tears by Eigetsu and Kourin’s reunion. ;___; Seriously. I found myself crying especially as I read the novel. I think I looked like silly as I was reading it while I was commuting >.>’’ The same goes with Ensei lecturing Sakujun about treasuring one’s life. It moved my bunny heart to tears~ How timely it is that I’m also reading Tuesdays with Morrie at this time, which also deals with facing death, as with the case of Eigetsu. This was the most sentimental episode for me, as I don’t recall myself shedding this much tears in the past episodes.

Sakujun’s appearance in this episode really came as a shock. I know the possibility of him being the “Senya” has already been dismissed in the past couple of episodes, but I never thought he would make his appearance like this. It seemed like an apparition, but there’s quite a possibility that Sakujun was able to visit Eigetsu in the flesh. Otherwise, he wouldn’t have been able to free Eigetsu from his shackles o__o And Eigetsu himself thought that perhaps Sakujun was the one who freed him, as Ryuuren also told him that he was already lying outside one of the caves when he saw him (some scene omitted in the anime). But how Sakujun was able to enter the den, what his purpose really was, and whether he’s still alive, are but one of the few things in this series left to be uncovered. And I’m not sure that topic will still be delved on in this arc.

Now regarding Eigetsu’s confrontation with Sakujun, Eigetsu saw it as a God-given chance to him, may it be a dream or what, since he has long wanted to scold him. It was but natural for Eigetsu to be angry at Sakujun because he had almost everything he didn’t have. He had all the wealth, all the freedom and the power to do what he wanted, but he wasted all that. Especially when he decided to end his life, all for his own satisfaction. I especially like what Eigetsu said in the novel when he was reprimanding Sakujun for what he did to Shuurei.

“Do you know how much Shuurei suffered after your death? How can she forget you, when your death haunted her, tormenting her day and night… grief and tears you’ve given her and cut a wound so deep that I know will remain forever. Up until now she continues to blame herself for what happened to you, shedding tears as she remembers what happened that time. And she will carry all this guilt and burden until the end. Is this why you wanted Shuurei to cause your death? Are you satisfied with what you’ve done? You’re the one I hate most in this world, and I will never forgive you for tormenting my friend and making her weep all her life.”

And with regards to what Eigetsu said about him being better than Sakujun even if he made Kourin cry all the time, he mentioned that it’s because if he only had more time, he’ll certainly make up for all that he’s done to her. Unlike Sakujun who simply ended his life and tormented Shuurei up until the end.

As for Ryuuren and Eigetsu’s meeting, I know I should’ve been genuinely touched by their friendship, but my naughty little mind can’t help but think of BL thoughts as I see their sweet embrace and exchange of amorous words ^^;;; I mean, just look at THESE:

the hug. GYUU~

I’m a failure (as a friend)…

I love you, Ryuuren. You are an irreplaceable part of my life.

I’ll do anything to keep you from dying!

Then, let’s stay together until the end… Can you accompany me somethere?

Let’s go. I’ll take you wherever you want, my beloved (bosom friend)…

*Eigetsu is touched*

Note that I haven’t butchered their dialogues… yet.

I understand that Eigetsu declined Kourin’s help because she still had to save the villagers that time, but then he really drove her away, as he also told her not to come to his aid. I believe that it’s because he doesn’t want to put her into any more danger, because he loves her. But then if you look at this from another aspect, it will seem like Eigetsu didn’t want to depend on her. Contrary to this, Eigetsu never resisted Ryuuren’s offer to help, and he was even the one who asked him to take him somewhere. I know Ryuuren and Kourin were in different situations when they met Eigetsu in the dungeon, but I still think there was this lack of dependency on Kourin for Eigetsu’s part. Because she’s a woman and he’s a man? He wants to show her that he can and will do something on his own and assure her not to worry, despite the fact that telling Kourin “Don’t worry about me” will cause her to worry even more.

I think Eigetsu also realized that Kourin wants to be “involved” in his life (but that’s like later in this episode already)… for him to see her as a partner, who wants to be by his side and help him realize his dreams. I can’t help but look back at the time Eigetsu went all by himself to Sekie village. Like Kourin has also said, it was indeed a selfish act, as he seemed to be purposefully driving her away from his life. I know that Eigetsu must be thinking that he doesn’t have much time left to live, so he has to detach himself from Kourin (or the other way around, make Kourin detach herself from him). But as we’ve seen, this shouldn’t be what you should do if you really love a person and you’re nearing the last days of your life.

It’s too late to have any regrets at this point, but I really think Kourin would’ve been happier if she was able to spend time with Eigetsu tending to the sick people back in the village that time. She could’ve felt that she was able to do something for Eigetsu, and had more of these happy and blissful memories to share with him. I know it’s still not certain if Eigetsu is really going to die, and I know that Eigetsu also felt guilty for making Kourin cry all the time. But I can’t help but think that Eigetsu wasn’t able to understand Kourin’s true sentiments ok… I’ll stop babbling about this now. I still love Eigetsu and Kourin as a couple, I just can’t help but well up with these emotions as I seriously think about their relationship.

Moving on…

I forgot to mention in my thoughts in the last episode that I was very much surprised to see Ryuuren in his plain clothing.I love him for being eccentric, but I believe he looks more bishielicious with his hair down :3 Aside from that, this seems to be the only time we’ve seen him looking all frantic and lose his composure, since he has always been all dignified and stands up with pride, as though he doesn’t have any worries in life. He did everything he can just to save Eigetsu, but sadly, it’s just not possible To think that he would go to these lengths just to save him. Ryuuren might not be easy to get along with, but he certainly knows how to treasure a friend (and be a true friend who’s always ready to lend a hand when you’re in trouble) We’ve also seen this side of Ryuuren way back in the first season, where he became Shuurei’s comfort when she was grieving over Sakujun’s death.

I can see that Seiran was able to be at ease in this episode, as he sees Shuurei safe with Ensei. It seems that all his doubts and fears in the last episode were dispelled, perhaps after spending some time reflecting, keeping in mind his faith on Ensei as well Shuurei’s strength

Shuurei was shown to be a skilled strategist, as she thought of this brilliant and fool-proof plan to save the villagers with Kourin and Seiran’s help. But then we can really see that she’s still hung up with Sakujun. She hasn’t fully come into terms with his death as well because of the lingering mysteries surrounding the disappearance of his body. Sigh. Of all people, Sakujun seems to be the one who really created the strongest impression on Shuurei, whom she will forever remember because of his charm, his forlorn persona like some lost little lamb, and the guilt he caused her. I’d have to admit that Sakujun has grown on me, but I still hate him for what he did to Shuurei, just like Eigetsu. “Senya” turned out to be someone else, but I wonder how Shuurei would’ve reacted if she saw that it was Sakujun. We will most likely see her well-up with so much emotion, as it would be something she’d be personally involved with, not just some political issue.

I am personally looking forward to a Shuurei x Sakujun confrontation in the near future, akin to what happened to Eigetsu. That will certainly help Shuurei let out each and every sentiment she has about him, as it will turn into outburst of mixed feelings. Anger, sadness, grief, and the like. I certainly hope that time will come, so Sakujun won’t continue tormenting her, and finally leave her in peace.

We also saw a glimpse of Senya’s real body in this episode, who is just a young child indeed, like Riou. I really pity “Senya” for what he’s been through, especially how he’s regarded as an incompetent person and is deprived of all love because of that. What a familiar predicament :3 *points to Kaze no Stigma* He’s but a kid who longs for his mother’s affection and everything he did finds its roots in this desire. Though of course that still doesn’t dismiss the fact that he’s a heartless bastard, as he foolishly follows what his “mother” tells him. Who knows what that trap they have for Shuurei can do o__O

After months of hiatus, I finally got back to writing this long Saiunkoku narrative *whew* Hope I can get some more spare time to continue on with this, especially with the the still lack of fansubs for this series. And on with the show~

Ryuuki finally meets Riou for the first time, inviting his guest for a cup of tea. Riou remarks how Ryuuki is different from all the other emperors, and takes a look at Bakuya, surprised as he is that it resounds because of his presence. Bakuya and Kanshou are twins swords once wielded by someone from the Hyou clan, and was later on given to the emperor and the royal family in general (it’s not mentioned if the original wielders of the sword were the ones who gave it to the royal family). Ryuuki cuts to the chase, asking Riou if he has anything to do with the Jasenkyou. Instead of answering the question directly, Riou first gives a background regarding the Hyou clan, how they’ve only had women for its leaders, believing that they are the ones able to preserve their family’s “special” bloodline (with their unusual skills). Riou and his father are the exception to this.

Riou recounts how his sister has always eyed him to become the next clan head. Despite the fact that he’s already in that position, the power of his sister is still as tremendous as before. Let me finish off the rest of Riou’s “long and windy” reply as stated in the novel. Riou continues, confiding how he just left his sister to do as she wishes since her plans coincides with his interests. He is, after all, a lazy bum who won’t make his move except for his own interest, unlike his sister.

Ryuuki confirms if this means he doesn’t have anything to with the Jasenkyou incidents, to which Riou replies that there’s something he wants in Sa Province, but is not the type who will go all the way to Koringun for this ‘thing’, unless necessary. Riou mentions in the novel that he just made a “chess piece” (little Riou) move and is simply waiting at the moment… Riou explains how this ‘thing’ he’s after is valuable for the survival of their clan, and doesn’t give Ryuuki a straight answer as to whether he’s referring to Shuurei. Ryuuki reaffirms his invitation for a drink, and Riou tells him to save it for next time, when he feels like it. In the novel, Riou also tells Ryuuki, “Do you not know of what the Hyou clan has done, or could’ve done in the past? Will you still invite me for a tea despite that?”

Eigetsu remains trapped in the lair of Jasenkyou, where “Senya” expresses his envy because Eigetsu, or rather Yougetsu, is seen to be of value by his “mother” despite being a guy. “Senya” describes his “mother” as the kind of person who’ll do anything just to get what she wants. In answer to Eigetsu’s question, Senya reveals how he has long known about the disease which plagued Sekie, which is why they took advantage of this. They actually warned the villagers about this, telling them to boil the water that they’re going to use because something dreadful is about to happen. Perceived to be a lunatic with these words, this gesture of concern was repaid with mockery and offensive assaults, a response which they actually expected. Senya believes that what happened to the villagers is simply a consequence of their own deeds, and Eigetsu can’t forgive how he’s saying all these in the body of Doushu, who loves people more than anything else.

Ensei goes to check on Sekie village and sees Seiran in the premises, who tells him that he has finished the arrangements with the government as they asked, and that help will be coming to their aid soon. Seeing Seiran worried about Shuurei, Ensei assures him that she has been holding out well, not only for the sake of the people of Sa but also for the sake of Seiran whom she wouldn’t want to suffer from all this. Shuurei is thankful for Seiran’s support, and owes him much of what has become of her. Ensei teases Seiran for being loved and trusted by Shuurei, and remarks how he’s even less of an adult than her. Ensei returns Kanshou to Seiran and teasingly asks him if he wants to go to where Shuurei is, in his behalf, which gains him a scolding. Seiran reminds him that he has tasks to finish before he can do that and makes Ensei keep Kanshou by his side until everything is over, for reasons Ensei already knows about. And despite how he knows Ensei will be able to protect her (even without Seiran) by her side, Seiran still can’t be at ease.

Shuurei and the others settle down in some camp near the Sekie village and talks about Kourin, who little Riou believes to have been caught by the Jasenkyou already, mistaking her for the supposedly sacrifice Shuurei. Ensei arrives and informs them that the Jasenkyou is using the Eizan mining tunnel as their hideout. Shuuran recalls seeing men in white robes during the early morning, who are actually carrying the corpses of people who died from the disease. These people who believed what the Jasenkyou said became hapless victims, as they also weren’t able to undergo treatment with Shuurei’s movements under their control as well. Ensei believes that things could’ve gotten worse if soldiers were sent out to deal with the situation, considering the number of hostages the Jasenkyou held in captivity.

Shuurei however thinks this still isn’t much of a feat, and that she doesn’t deserve any praise until she’s able to save all the people. They have to find a way to treat the rest of the people as soon as possible. Ensei adds that they now have one more person to save, that is Kourin, but Shuurei thinks otherwise. Kourin might be hasty, but Shuurei knows well that she’s capable of making sound decisions even at a time of peril. Shuurei puts herself in Kourin’s shoes and thinks about what she will do if she was in her position…

Just as Shuurei thought, Kourin remains calm despite being imprisoned together with the people who caught the disease. She thinks about Eigetsu, and remains optimistic that she’ll make it in time to see him, as he still has about half a month left to live. Kourin is determined to do everything she can to make this possible, while tending to the sick people and not allowing any time to be wasted.

The scene cuts to Shuurei, who gives Riou some medicine for his chappy hands. Ensei on the other hand is discussing about the map he got of Sekie village, when Shuuran informs him of some shortcuts and small pathways (which only children can pass through) that aren’t indicated. Ensei also tells them of the cooking smoke he saw earlier, which wasn’t there before, according to Shuuran and Riou. An idea crosses Shuurei’s mind as she thinks about the relation of this smoke with Kourin. Just then, a man riding a horse comes into sight, who turns out to be no one else but Ryuuren. Shuurei was surprised to see him in plain clothes, and even more so with how exhausted he looked. He was filled with concern about Eigetsu and seems to blame himself for what happened to him.

Eigetsu who remains captive of the Jasenkyou refuses to summon Yougetsu, reminding him of the promise he made about giving back this body lent to him when his life runs out. The fact that only Eigetsu can summon him makes Yougetsu all the more helpless in this situation as he couldn’t do anything but watch Eigetsu suffer. Stricken with this grief he feels, Yougetsu couldn’t help but think about how it would’ve been better if he didn’t save Doushu and Eigetsu. How he wouldn’t have been able to feel this pain if he didn’t meet them. To think that this is the price he has to pay for having known the warmth of people, their smile and the pain of losing these people he has grown to love.

Ryuuren seems to have calmed down, but remains speechless and deep in his thoughts. Shuuran on the other hand asks Shuurei to write her name in kanji, which her mother said to refer to a legendary crimson bird. Shuurei thinks this is a great name, and believes that her mother must have given it much thought. Shuurei turns to Riou and asks him about his name, but it seems that Riou already knows what his name in kanji is. “…Though that’s not my name”, Riou suddenly blurts out, confusing Shuurei as to what he meant by this. Her attention however was redirected to Shuuran as she asks what Shuurei’s name is. “A smart and courageous person”, according to Shuurei, a description which fits her perfectly, as attested by Shuuran.

Shuuran and Eigetsu readies to set out on their journey to Sekie village, as Shuuran volunteers herself to sneak into the Jasenkyou’s hideout to inform Kourin about their plan. Shuurei knows well that Kourin isn’t the kind of person who’ll simply wait for help to come, and believes that she might just be the person to help them save Eigetsu and the rest of the captives.

Kourin has been the one cooking food for the guards after she was captured by the Jasenkyou, to which they were really thankful since they were being fed with something that’s close to being inedible before she came. After the guards realized that they mistook her for Shuurei, they left her in prison together with the rest of the villagers. Kourin was relieved to find out that Shuurei is safe but was alarmed by the ghastly sight of the sick people in the prison, and comes to realize that she’s in the Jasenkyou’s territory, where the guards and prisoners themselves have been tricked by the cult. The awful condition of the sanitation and food in the prison is what urged Kourin to talk the guards into what she thinks would be best for the sick captives as well as the guards themselves, by offering to make them scrumptious food.

With the time Kourin spent there, she was able to observe the number of people in the place, and the ones who keep guard over the area. There’s a pathway leading to yet another set of caves, and she wonders what lies inside them. Kourin goes back to prison and feeds the rest of the prisoners, where one old man pities themselves for being deceived by the Jasenkyou, and Kourin assures him not to lose hope since help will soon be coming. Kourin looks around the place, and thinks that Shuurei and Ensei certainly won’t desert these sick people if they were held captive like her. She turns to the old man, asking him what lies in the branch paths in the area.

As Kourin lies to sleep, she thinks about the pathways earlier and how Eigetsu must be inside one of these caves. Just then, Shuuran calls out to her for a message from Shuurei. Yougetsu continues to call on Eigetsu to summon him but he remains stubborn and unyielding, not wanting Yougetsu to be captured by the Jasenkyou. Eigetsu reflects on how happy he’s been, but snaps from these dying-wish-like thoughts. He thinks about the tons of things left for him to do, how he should escape from this dungeon together with the rest of the people, treat the sick patients and give them comfort, get back Doushu’s body and confront “Senya”. Eigetsu notices a glimpse of what seems to be an illusion of Kourin, as he thinks about how he wants to see her smile for the last time, even if it’s just an illusion. What comes into his sight however, is a crying Kourin, and Eigetsu thinks that he hasn’t done anything good for the woman he loves. As he hears the trembling voice of Kourin and feels the warmth of her hands, Eigetsu realizes how the sight of Kourin is anything but an illusion.

Thoughts

And so the “meeting” turned into a rather diplomatic encounter, between the Emperor and the Hyou Clan Head. Based on their conversation, it seemed that the two guys used this opportunity to take a close look at each other, with Ryuuki still figuring out what Riou’s intentions really are for coming all the way to Kiou, and perhaps Sa Province. And I think Ryuuki has this strong hunch that he’s plans involve Shuurei. Riou on the other hand seems to be assessing Ryuuki in terms of being the Emperor, and from the impression I get from the novel, it seems that he has taken interest in his uniqueness compared to the previous rulers of the country. And from what Riou mentioned about some things that Hyou clan did or tried to do in the past, I am reminded of that event between the royal family and the Hyou Clan, which led to the dispatch of the Black Wolf.

I am quite intrigued by Riou’s surprise upon seeing what has become of Bakuya, especially what his regret for not studying it way back. Ryuuki has also mentioned that someone from the Hyou clan wielded the twin swords Bakuya and Kanshou, but we know little about the historical background of this to find out much of these mysteries. In the past episodes where Riou appeared, I was thinking he’s the type who’d make drastic moves to get Shuurei to become his. But it seems that he’s observing things from afar before he goes all-out with his plans. It may be partially because his sister is doing something which is also aligned with his plans for Shuurei, as he has clearly mentioned in the novel. This sister of his might just be that mother “Senya” is referring to. But goodness… Riou can really drive people nuts with his long and windy way of answering questions. Go straight to the point! =__=

Little Riou continues to be as mysterious as ever… but now we find out that he really is the spy Hyou Riou sent out to observe Shuurei, especially with Riou mentioning about the chess piece he sent to Sa Province (novel-wise). Shuurei herself was surprised to see how different he is from the rest of the people in Sekie village, like he’s from an esteemed clan of nobility. I’m not sure if his RIOU name in katakana is just a fake name or what. And about his gesture of telling Shuurei Hyou Riou’s name in kanji, is that to show Shuurei a foreboding encounter with this Riou?

Seiran has matured quite a bit, but there’s still this little immaturity left in him, as he still can’t be at ease with being apart from Shuurei. Before, it seemed as though Shuurei was dependent on Seiran, but looks like it’s the other way around. Seiran is the one who can’t bear to be apart from her, like a worrywart father. If it wasn’t for Ensei whom Seiran trusts so much, he certainly won’t hesitate to leave his post and accompany Shuurei. Nevertheless, Seiran is admirable for being able to think rationally and wisely despite this desire he had to be with Shuurei. He cast aside these negative thoughts and decided on finishing his responsibilities first

Oh, and Ensei really likes teasing him and making his blood boil Seiran spouts all that brash language of his when around Ensei, which doesn’t really fit his nice-guy bishounen image

As for “Senya”, I think this episode made me empathize with his situation. After all he’s been through all those years, I think it’s but natural that he’ll become this cold-hearted psychotic sort of guy. His actions are still not justifiable, but this shows that his actions are not without reason. And, the fact that he’s just following what his “mother” has commanded makes me think that the mother is far worse than he is. That “mother” is certainly planning something ominous, considering how she seems to want to take hold of Yougetsu and his powers. Or perhaps make him a study… and allow their clan to possess this power?

It’s really sad to see what Eigetsu has been going through in the hands of the Jasenkyou, but it makes me all the more admire him for holding on this long. Despite being tortured, he remains steadfast and true to his words, ready to sacrifice himself just so Yougetsu won’t be “captured”. Kourin is equally admirable, for her courage and intelligence, which allowed her to make sound decisions despite her situation. She overcame her despair and sadness over Eigetsu, and didn’t waste any time by simply wallowing in her sorrows. That last scene with Kourin and Eigetsu’s reunion was really such a heart-wrenching and touching moment… seeing the lovers reunited, in this kind of situation I can’t help but cry at that scene… ;___; (Now I want to see the kiss…!)

I’m liking Kourin more as each episode passes, probably because of the painful situation she’s in. For some reason I find her circumstance as something more difficult than Shuurei (at least at this point). Though it also depends on how you weigh political stuff and personal experiences I think. Shuurei is admirable for her steadfastness and willingness to sacrifice herself for the sake of people, so I can describe as her as someone patriotic. But Kourin’s steadfastness is of a different level. I think I just find it harder to face something as painful as what Kourin is going through… with her loved one and her life at the brink of danger.

The surgery operation on the patients finally commence, but most of the doctors lose their spirit and become filled with pessimism that they can’t possibly perform such a dangerous task. This is just one of the problems Shuurei has to face at the moment, with the other problem being the Jasenkyou whom she will be meeting in a few days time. With Eigetsu still captured, will Shuurei still make it in time and still meet him? Or will there be another person who will come to Eigetsu’s aid and free him from the current state he’s in?

(This summary is going to be a really short one this time, because not much has really happened and I also have to clear myself of backlogs )

Summary

The doctors proceed with the actual operation and You-sensei performs the surgery first to guide the apprentices. They become disheartened at the sight of this, and even thought about giving up on the surgery without even trying. But nonetheless, their eyes were awakened to the plight of the people who need their help, and finally realize that no one else can save them but doctors like them.

The operation went well and many lives have been saved, but half of the patients weren’t able to survive the disease. Shuurei becomes saddened at the thought that they weren’t able to save all the people, but Ensei tells her that it’s something beyond their control. Having saved this number of people is already a miracle in itself, and Shuurei delights in that thought. You-sensei reminds her that they still have the Jasenkyou left to be taken care of, whom Shuurei will be meeting the following day. Ensei has this lingering feeling that this has something to do with Sakujun, and swears that he’ll make sure and send him to the other world if they meet again.

Shuurei sets forth on her journey as Hei Taishi arrives, bringing with him a new set of surgery apparatus made from chrome ore which is said to be the best alloy. Shuuran insists on tagging along with her together with Riou, knowing that they’ll prove to be of help in guiding them around the village. In Korinjou, Seiran finishes the necessary arrangements for the revival of Sekie village and will now be catching up with both Shuurei and Ensei.

Eigetsu still remains captive of the Jasenkyou and finds ‘Senya’ to be a child who has taken possession of Doushu’s body for a prank. The reason why he held Eigetsu captive is because of Yougetsu and the power that he possess (who according to Eigetsu is someone of the same abilities as this ‘Senya’). Part of his plan is also to lure Shuurei into their place, hence he took the name ‘Senya’. It seems that someone else is behind this however, as ‘Senya’ doesn’t seem to understand the meaning behind all this either (the information is disclosed from him as well).

Senya exclaims his surprise as he finds out what the ‘outside world’ is, since the men in his clan are considered to be inferior because of their inability to give birth. No one else but the Hyou clan comes into Eigetsu’s mind who fits this description given by “Senya’ – a clan where almost all the heads are women and that of which who possess special abilities. ‘Senya’ warns him not to think about escaping or he’ll certainly regret it.

In the palace, Ryuuki’s anticipated visitor arrives, in the person of Riou…

Thoughts

And so the surgery has finally commenced, and we’ve been able to see how this kind of operation is done in the olden days – like using ‘sake’ as the anesthesia for the patients >< (boy that’ll still hurt… =__=)

The surprising revelation in this episode is regarding the identity of ‘Senya’ who apparently possessed Doushu’s body (which finally explains the striking similarity in their looks). We still don’t know the real identity of this guy, but what we do know is that he’s someone from the Hyou clan, who treats women as superior to men (add that to yet another unique and interesting facet of this already unique clan).

With the mention of the Hyou clan, I can’t help but think that Riou must have something to do with this… could it be that he’s the ‘boss’ of Senya? That he’s the one behind all this, all for the sake of capturing Shuurei? (as what Impz has also mentioned before) But with regards to the inferiority of men in the Hyou clan, it wasn’t evident because we haven’t met much men from this clan. I can’t quite remember any other men but Riou, who’s been the clan head for quite some time now. I believe he’s a ‘special case’, for a man like him to be put in such a position…

I can’t help but feel some rush of excitement with Ryuuki and Riou’s meeting… I wonder if he has any clues with regards to what he plans to do to Shuurei. We’ll just see that in the next episode. But given the situation, I believe this is going to turn out to be one diplomatic encounter…

I already took a peek in the novel so I already saw Eigetsu and Kourin’s reunion… and I sooo want to watch it already!! :p

Shuurei arrives with the doctors but becomes faced with much resistance from people of Koringun who still blames her for the disease. They are thrown in a pinch as these people headed by Shuon, rebel against Taishu’s orders and is determined to prevent them from entering the town. Will Shuurei and the doctors be able surpass this hurdle to save the people in time?

The title translates to the famous saying “The Husband is Always the Last to Know”, referring to how the other officials were able to ask help from the women in the village without their husbands knowing, which will be made clear as you watch this episode.

Screenshots

Summary

Before Shuurei arrived in Koringun, Ryuuki is informed by Shuuei about what happened, making him hope that Ensei will protect Shuurei well as they arrive in Korinjou. That night, one of Taishu’s men confirms if Shuurei will indeed be arriving in their place, and Taishu firmly believes that they will. As they anticipate the coming of Shuurei with the doctors, Shuon has also gone into convincing most of the men in town into rebelling against Taishu and becomes united in doing what they can to stop Shuurei from entering their place in fear that she might infect them as well.

While the men are out plotting what they’re going to do upon Shuurei’s arrival, an official visits the houses of several women for a request he had. Shuuran takes a walk that night and goes to pick up some food which someone has been providing them, then leaves a letter of thanks in return and goes back home to feed her mother. As Shuuran attends to her sick mother, she ponders upon how death will cause her mother not to suffer any more. Negative thoughts plague her as she thinks that even a great person will be stumped in what do in the kind of situation they’re in, but brushes away these thoughts as she remembers Eigetsu’s words that help will be coming their way, and tells her mom to hold on a little longer.

Shuurei arrives the next day, where they find themselves having a rough welcome from the soldiers by the gates. Ensei and Shuurei heads on towards the gate before it closes as they get striked by a rain of arrows, with Ensei assuring Shuurei that he’ll protect her and won’t even let her have a scratch. Shuuran seems to have sensed the commotion happening outside and follows Taishu through the hole of the wall separating them from the rest of the people in town. Taishu heads outside the gates towards Ensei and Shuurei, much to their surprise as he is intending to take cover for them. Ensei manages to block the arrows hurling towards Taishu and easily defends them against the rain of arrows with his spear, then reprimands Taishu for his reckless actions considering his age.

Shuurei steps down from her horse and thanks Taishu for everything he’s done for them all by himself. Shuurei’s words brings Taishu to tears and tells her he has long anticipated her coming, then kneels before her as he holds on to her hand, expressing his deepest thanks for not abandoning Koringun despite all this. Hearing the words of Shuurei also makes Shuuran realize that she’s the one Eigetsu was referring to, bringing her much happiness as she has finally come to their aid. But much to her surprise, the other men in town have started their move towards killing Shuurei as they forbid her entrance into the town, leaving Shuuran perplexed as to why they would think this way.

The people asks Taishu to move away from Shuurei, knowing that she’s the cause of the disease and starts accusing her for holding a grudge against them, thinking that she came to infect them with the disease as well, and the fact that nothing like this has happened until she was appointed as the governor simply attests this to be true. They also think that she must have done something to have Taishu under her control and so he allowed the people of Sekie into their town. Taishu was about to explain the truth about this matter but Ensei believes that what he tells them will be useless, since they’ll be regarding him to be saying these things under ‘Shuurei’s control’.

The people continue to show their hostility towards Shuurei, exclaiming how she should be killed to appease the anger of Eight Immortals so they won’t be plagued with any disease, and even say that the people of Sekie should be driven off their town and be burnt to death. This brings Shuuran to sadness and makes her wonder if it would’ve been better if they simply stayed in Sekie so they won’t have to hear these harsh words from all these people. Just then, Shuurei gains the resolve to tell these people that there are still things left that she has to do, and she can’t simply die without having even saved any people yet. (Ensei lets out a joke as Shuurei was saying this, telling her that the people might even blame she for their constipation next time, to which Shuurei replies in disbelief that he thought of that example out of other possible ones ).

Shuuran was even more convinced that Shuurei really did came to save them with these words, but the townsmen remain close-minded to what they think as they accuse Shuurei of not having the shame to even take responsibility for what she has done, and even say that everything will certainly turn for the better once she dies. One of the military officer in the crowd turns to Ensei and reminds him that it’s his responsibility as the governor’s aide to take the life of Shuurei, knowing that it’s the very means to stop the disease from spreading. Ensei makes them swallow their own words as he lets them understand the meaning of what they said – that burning the suspected carriers of the disease (the infected people) is the ‘solution’ they have for the disease, which means that if the disease comes down to Koringun, they’ll also be burning their own people to death.

Ensei retorts that it’s but normal for a person to think about helping someone sick and needs attention, and it’s for this reason that Shuurei came all the way from Kiyou, doing everything she can to find the treatment and gather the best doctors in the country no matter how difficult it might prove to be. Ensei reprimands the townsmen for their actions, making them face that fact that simply believing in rumors and thinking about killing them won’t be able to save anyone, and that the very reason why Shuurei herself did all these is for the sake of everyone (including these people who are now thinking of killing her). Shuurei then steps forward and asks to let them into the town because there’s no more time as they have to save the people inside, while assuring them that she’ll confront the Jasenkyou afterwards and even have them take her life if it proves to be necessary.

The people were almost convinced by Ensei and Shuurei’s words, until Shuon steps forward and warns them that they’re simply being tricked, considering that everything they do will simply be useless if Shuurei has indeed incurred the wrath of the Eight Immortals. Shuon is determined to kill Shuurei and says that he’ll do it by himself if he has to since that it’ll be worth the effort knowing that it’ll be able to save the lives of many. Shuuran who bears witness to all this becomes filled with sadness as she can’t help but wonder why these people can think of killing the very people she has long been waiting for to save the people of Sekie.

As the people prepare to attack, Ensei takes cover for Shuurei as she assures him of her determination to live, knowing how she still has an unfinished business left to be settled. Shuuran can no longer contain her sadness and runs past the townsmen bursting into tears, begging them to stop what they’re doing as she questions why they can think of doing this to someone who has come all the way to save her mother and everyone else. Shuuran’s father and many other people in the village, and it’s for this reason that she doesn’t want to see any more people die.

Shuuran tells Shuon and the other townsmen that there’s no way she can believe the words of people who doesn’t know how much Eigetsu has done to help save them - people who even says ridiculous things and thinks lightly of killing people. Shuuran believes in no one else but Eigetsu and what he told her about a woman who’ll definitely come and save them, thus she believes in Shuurei. Ensei and Shuurei brighten up as they hear about Eigetsu, and You-sensei thinks about how Kada’s sentiments and wish of not giving up until the end to find a means to save people have finally been exemplified in the person of Eigetsu. Shuuran turns to Shuurei, pleading her to save her mom. Shuurei can’t help but see herself in Shuuran who experienced the same thing she did ten years ago and comes to embrace that past as she embraces Shuuran, assuring her that everything’s alright now, to which Shuuran thanks her for coming to their help. Shuon however was still determined as ever to kill Shuurei and goes to attack her together with Shuuran, but Ensei rushes just in time and knocks him down instead, as he hollers the people to move and let them in the town.

At that moment, a messenger arrives for Hei Taishu, informing him that the preparations have been finished and that they can already start with the treatment immediately, as they have already convinced a number of women to help them in taking care of the patients, and about ten women skilled in sewing have already memorized the instructions given by You-sensei who are now on standby as they await for further instructions from them. You-sensei explains that there’s no one who’ll compare to women when it comes to taking care of people even since before, and the townsmen were perplexed by the sudden turn of events.

As the people were left puzzled, the women in the town arrives and one of them reprimands her husband’s actions and questions if he’ll also kill her and their children if the sickness comes to them. The man explains that he’s not intending to kill the doctors and that he’s actually doing this for their sake, but the wife says that she’ll never want a murderer for a husband. The woman confesses that at first she was against the idea of having the villagers of Sekie into their town but having heard how a little girl came all the way from their village to save her mom and the rest of their people touched her, allowing her to realize that if the same thing happens to her children, she’ll do everything she can to save them despite whatever rumors there are.

The husbands were too busy thinking up plans to kill Shuurei that government officials were able to enter their homes and ask for their help without their husbands knowing. The fact that a government official even bowed down before them and ask their assistance made the women really happy, and made them think that they’ll certainly do the same thing if they need help as well (and says something like, that their taxes have paid off). The wife orders the people to put down their weapons and that not helping them out is an act of looking down on women. The husbands were still hesitant to this, so she finally tells them that they should experience giving birth, for them to not think of killing anyone so lightly (as they realize the importance of each and every people’s lives). She makes them move out of the way and let Shuurei and the doctors into the town, since there are still piles of things left for them to do.

As Riou sees Shuurei enter the town, he comes to realize the fact that Shuurei is ‘the woman’ someone told him about, then approaches Shuuran and scolds her for her reckless actions. Shuuran retorts that he should’ve helped him then, but he simply lets out an excuse that he didn’t have any chance to do that with the situation earlier. The woman then refrains them from fighting and tells them to get along well with each other and Shuuran thanks her for the food she’s been giving them. The woman says that she’s the one who should be thankful to Shuuran instead because she awakened those stupid people, and Shuuran burst into tears from all that has happened, making Riou comment on how she’s such a crybaby.

Thoughts

When Saiunkoku Monogatari started, we’ve already seen how this anime is going to focus on proving how women like Shuurei can be at par with men, and even exceed them in some aspects with the experiences and noble aspirations she has. This episode however goes into another level of showing this feminist view of the author, as exemplified by the ‘cool obachan’ and the thoughts of You-sensei about how women are most skilled when it comes to taking care of people. Basing from the reaction of the husband to the [striking] words of his wife (the obachan), we can see how these men were portrayed to be ‘uxorious husbands’ (submissive husbands), so to speak. The feminism was even more elaborated in the novel, where the wife also says that there’s nothing wrong with having a woman for a government official, considering how she (as the wife) actually kick the ass of her stupid husband :p

This feministic remarks of the wife is just in response to what the husbands said (omitted in the anime), where they thought about how ridiculous Shuurei is for meddling with political affairs, considering that a ‘woman’s job’ is to spend time at home cooking and taking care of the kids. They even express what they think about “equality between men and women”, as they reason out that men can’t bear a child so they have to work in behalf of their family; women in return should just be housewives and take care of the house and children – a typical patriarchal way of thinking. It’s great that someone like the obachan stepped out and falsified these ‘arguments’ and showed just how competent women could be ^^

As for Shuurei and Shuuran, I was really touched by their meeting, seeing how Shuurei was able to see herself in Shuuran and came to embrace her past through this young girl who experienced what she did ten years ago. The words that Shuurei told Shuuran (“everything’s alright now (since the people will already be saved)”) are the very words she longed to hear during that time (as the novel also mentions), but alas she wasn’t able to hear that considering how helpless they were during that incident, unlike here where Shuurei and Eigetsu initiated on doing this for the sake of saving the people of Sekie. No one was able to tell her those words, and now that she was able to say this to Shuuran, she was able to confront that past and put an end to that bitter memory as well (symbolizing how she was also able to tell her past self that “everything’s alright now” in the process). Shuuran quickly became attached to Shuurei because of this, and I find them really cute… like a mother and child ^^ (like this pic below, which will be probably be shown in the next episode)

And as I’ve mentioned before, Shuuran is also similar to Shuurei in that she’s just about as strong as Shuurei in terms of personality (or even more, seeing that Shuuran seems to be of younger age than Shuurei was that time ten years ago). We can already see the makings of a leader in this little girl, as we see her compassion for people (brought about by the experience she had, similar to both Shuurei and Eigetsu as well) and the courage to stand up for what she believes in.

Ever since the last couple of episodes, I’ve come to love Ensei much much more. All I can say is, Ensei FTW! :p He showed just how he can kick-ass with these situations, either mentally (with the sound arguments and decisions he make) or physically (as he shows how competent he is as a fighter). He remains calm and collected despite the intense situation, and even lets out some jokes in the process (like the ‘constpitation’ joke) Ensei really knows how to ‘break the tension’ in these kinds of situations, and all these traits he has shown simply proves how he is indeed the rightful man to be Shuurei’s aide (though I’m still not rooting for Shuurei x Ensei, despite how ‘possible’ it is at this point given the circumstance they’re in ><)

Little Riou made a little appearance in this episode, but the line where he said “So that’s Shuurei” is enough to prove that what Hyou Riou told him to do is in relation to Shuurei, either to simply observe her, or do something even more ‘serious’ in the course of their stay in Koringun. His lack of action with regards to helping out Shuuran simply shows how he is indifferent to the plight of her as well as the other people there, cold and emotionless as he is, which adds even more of a mystery and intrigue to his character overall.

From the preview of the next episode, it seems that the doctors are going to have a hard time treating the patients as fear suddenly comes to them right when they are already going to undergo the surgery. This is what You-sensei was fearing in the last episode, the ‘resolve’ of the apprentices he was referring to, which they should overcome for them to treat the patients successfully. This might be a sad news, but there’s no Saiunkoku airing this Saturday, a guest special will be airing instead (though I don’t know who’s the guest this time) and Saiunkoku will once again resume airing next week, June 30 (c/o Newtype) :3 [end of announcement… hehe]

P.S. By the way, it seems that the anime’s slowing its pace from what I’ve seen… it only covered about 30 pages of the novel this time (which made things easier for me as well :p). But given that, it’s no doubt that they could stretch this for about 30 or more episodes :3