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Did they end in a fairy tale manner? Will it be left in the second season?
The answer is within for the end of this wonderfully done first season.
Episode summary
Shuurei sent a letter to Ensei and the others in Sa province, informing them about the acceptance of the offer as they delighted in the news. Shuuei and Kouyuu informed Ryuuki that they were going to Shouka’s residence to visit Shuurei, but Ryuuki declined the offer citing work. As they arrived, Shuurei was out for Yuushun for business, as the two were embarrassed to come visiting so hastily and would send a letter. Shouka told the two that Shuurei did not want them to think that she came back to play, as the two realized that Shuurei had grown up. Before they left, they asked Shouka whether they had any communication with Ryuuki, but Shouka said no.
Shuurei was thinking how she had not seen Ryuuki except in the throne, as she discussed the plan with Yuushun. Yuushun was going to visit the red light district as Sai Rin had a business discussion there. Shuurei tagged along and Kochou charged into a hug on her as Kochou was delighted that Shuurei finally came back. As they went in, Shuurei and the other courtesans played a tune for the business partners as the event went well. At the end of the event, Kochou complimented Sai Rin, saying that someone as pretty as her was the head of the merchant guild. Sai Rin said it was a far cry when they were young, as the oppressive growing power of the Sa Clan had reduced her clan’s powers, and she had to break through patriarchal prejudice and circumstances to succeed as merchants.
Kochun said she was similar to Shuurei, but Sai Rin said Shuurei had done much more and protected the future of Sa province, a goal that she never reached. Sai Rin then added that if Yuushun could manage his career and love life, she could also do it when she stepped down from her reign soon. As Shuurei returned home, Seiran was actually out. Shuurei said that she was only able to get here due to the support of everyone, as she invited everyone for dinner tomorrow to thank them and tell them that she’s bad.
At the snow forest where Shuurei and Ryuuki first met, Seiran saw Ryuuki waiting there as he lamented that he failed in protecting Shuurei and he was angry that he did not do anything. Shuurei had been safe simply due to herself and he was actually reliant on him. Ryuuki said he still admired Seiran, as he did not even have the opportunity or the right to be angry at such a failure. The next day, Shuurei dragged Seiran to her mother’s grave, as she said that she had initially thought she should not be thinking about her old home when she was already the Sa governor. However, it was important as her dreams started her, which made her appreciate this place even more.
At home, Shuurei was preparing food while Seiran was cleaning the windows. Shouka said that he finally felt deeply that the two were back, as Seiran said he could never believe that he felt like he was home and had important people. He told Shouka happily that he was back at home. Later at night, Shuurei wondered why Shouka organized the eating session in the palace as everyone arrived less Shouka, Ryuuki, Ryuuren and Reishin. As everyone started to eat, Shuurei told everyone that she was finally back. Everyone was glad and it was clear that she had matured from the little girl a few months ago. Ryuuren also came to the dinner, forcefully grabbing Kokujun along.
We saw a distance away that Reishin was hoping so much to come, as Kurou went over to the dinner abandoning Reishin. Shouka asked why Reishin would not honestly say that he was her uncle. Reishin said he was a lonely man but Shouka said there was someone who could not even escape his loneliness. It was Ryuuki as the more he became like a king, the lonelier he would get with the work he was piled with. As he became more like a king, most people would stop regarding him as a normal person. Shuurei would be the only person that will call him by his name. It was Ryuuki’s actions that had created different fates for everyone, as he allowed himself to be “abandoned
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Comments (61)
Thanks for the summary Impz!
I want to cry now….. cos I’ll have to wait till 2rd season, it is going to be a long agonizing wait.
Ryuuki has got to be my first to mention: He is a very good king, hands down to that. There has been a few times that he could have made decisions regarding Shuurei selfishly, but he never did. Though it is a tough road for him, but he made these choices in consideration of the good of the country and of course, what Shuurei wanted. I can only hope things will turn out well for him… we just have to wait and see isn’t it.
I’ve got to say, I love Ryuuki. I love the character design, the personality, the kingliness, the rather boyish pouting, the kawaii faces he made, the maturity he has gained, the relationships he has with Shuurei and Seiran, the way he looks sometimes when he’s sad, and the way he looks when he’s being funny.
When I was watching this just now, I keep thinking how funny this final episode was. There’s a lot of hilarious parts, like the whole Shuurei ordering Ryuuki to sit down (on the snow, no less) and listen to her lecture, and Ryuuki doing it immediately. There’s one of my favourite parts. Then there’s the tea Shouka brewed that Shuurei stared at so dubiously. 
At the same time, I was almost in tears when Shuurei called Ryuuki by his name. I do agree with Impz in Ryuuki’s character analysis, in that he is getting lonelier and lonelier. However in the end, there IS something Ryuuki has, someone who really sees him and might even love him, given time. I don’t think Shuurei was going to reject him before Ryuuki covered her mouth; it’s more of an open ended decision for them to give it time. And I have utmost confidence that with that time, they will end up happily ever after. Not soon, perhaps, but definitely one day.
And the way Shuurei ramble on and on when she’s nervous is so cute. 
Another thing is the reaction Seiran has when Shouka gets Shuurei to bring some buns to the snowy trees. He looks understanding. I’m actually of the opinion that Seiran’s feelings for Shuurei is a cross between brotherly love and eros love; ie he isn’t IN LOVE with Shuurei per se. There’s definitely attraction between them (or Seiran has some feelings for Shuurei, although I think Shuurei is completely oblivious), but that attraction is as much the protective instinct as couple-love. He is, in fact, very supportive of Shuurei ending up with Ryuuki. At least I get that feeling. I don’t think he has ever really thought that he would wed/court Shuurei.
One thing that I thought could be more elaborated on, though. The scene where Seiran met Ryuuki at the snowy forest could have been longer, more drawn out. Somehow it seems that due to the emphasis put on the Ryuuki-Shuurei relationship, the nuances of the Ryuuki-Seiran relationship has been neglected. It’s one small flaw in a great ending.
Briar added these pithy words on Feb 26 07 at 7:42 amThanks so much for this last episode!!! I can not wait until someone fansubs it.
Tae added these pithy words on Feb 26 07 at 8:00 amThird to comment…i think ^^
I couldn’t really believe that it is really the end of the first season until I saw the “End” after Ryuuki and Shuurei look up at the moon.
Anyways, I was actually happy when it ended there because I don’t think that they (the producers) would put a rush on their relationship just because season one is ending.
ALthough I do hope for RyuukixShuurei at the end of the entire series. (Prays hard for Ryuuki)
Lol at Ryuuren’s headwear (A snowman) and Ryuuki when Shuurei told him to sit and he did (like a master with a dog)
By the way, it was Sou-taifu who got drunk and threw Hakumei and Kouyuu(Offscreen) into the pond, not Ro. ^^;
okay…. question where is everyone seeing the episode at
Tae added these pithy words on Feb 26 07 at 8:08 am@Hakasan: That is perhaps the big difference between Ryuuki and the other guys. His selflessness, even though he wishes to be selfish is his charm.
@Parcivale: Ya, it will be really insane if they had them kissing and all lovey-dovey. It will be so out of place and the open ending might not suffice for some fans but it does make the ending beautiful since it does allow for a new direction. Compared to the start where Shuurei does not even allow love to come in, she is at least considering and asking for more time. That, to me, helps to resolve it pretty well. You know about the dog command? I had a sudden thought of Inuyasha when she said that. Hah, strange me.
Oh, it’s Sou-taifu? They all look the same to me, heh. *embarrassed* Thanks for the correction.
@Briar: I agree that Seiran has no ero-feelings toward Shuurei. His consideration is probably an affirmation that he did not want Shuurei to be with Sakujun no matter what, which is why he suggested it. I am sure he’s fine with Ryuuki for sure.
I actually feel that they will still not be together at the very end. Yes, I do not know why but I have a feeling that the distance between the two of them is still ok now, but when Ryuuki finally becomes as much as an emperor, that distance will increase. I do wonder if the two will be the same, and I cannot expect them to. Call me pessimistic but I do not see a romantic end for the two of them.
I also think Seiran rambling on and on when she is shy is hell hilarious 
So cute.
I teared when I saw Ryuuki being so lonely and alone. I guess he needs Shuurei after all. So, I’m back to RyuukixShuurei. Although I really like Ryuuren too. The ending is really beautiful! I wish they had made it into a one hour special. There could be so much more sweetness. I wish they had played the Shuurei’s erhu music too.
I thought Kouyou’s voice sounded a bit different. Did the seiyuu change or something?
lys added these pithy words on Feb 26 07 at 9:38 amOk, it’s the first time I write here so hello everybody and thanks for the nice reviews provided!
I’d like to make a comment on this last episode, but also in particular on what there is between Ryuuki and Shuurei…..
@Parcivale has been faster, I just wanted to write the same thing: Shuurei treats Ryuuki like a dog…. I do believe that it would have been impossible for them to perform some romance but honestly seeing her rejecting him like that, like you would reject your male classmate that is after you and tries to kiss you when you both are 12 years old….
And also this makes me think once more that I was right ( of course, it is my opinion and not others’, but I’d say that this last episode has given me support to what I always thought on the lasts episodes) when I was thinking how much Shuurei felt for Sakujun…. Was it love? No, probably not, it was even worse, it was a crush that drives a woman crazy, one has no control of it……..
How many times Shuurei rejects Sakujun? And how many times she does the same with Ryuuki? She liked to be kissed by Sakujun, she really liked him a lot, no matter who he was or what would have been of them… she cries when he’s dead ( at least supposed to be), and not just because of a sense of guilt…Had she liked Ryuuki , after the experience with Sakujun she should have run between Ryuuki’s arms, had she realised what her feelings for him were… but since she has no feelings of love for him she can’t, she can’t even accept a kiss… but she did accepted Sakujun kisses , and how…When a woman rejects a kiss is because she doesn’t want to be kissed, when a woman is kissed and doesn’t find the strenght to reject him it’s because she really likes him but doesn’t want to admit it, even to herself maybe…..
Well, that’s just my opinion, I actually do love the pair Ryuuki x Shuurei and hope that in the next season she’ll learn to love him ( but can anyone learn to love?) and won’t make him suffer.
Cheers and thanks again for the wonderful work you’ve done every week!
Monia
Good post. I agree with most of things you said. Ryuuki is in a sad condition, but realistically, even a king is expected to cool off once every week or so, thus I think they overemphasized the lonely part. Most good kings and emperor felt the need to associate with various people in diverse situation, and they used this opportunity to blow a little steam, get to know the people better, and gather new informations and ideas that doesn’t surface in formal meetings. There were so many high ranking officers in that Royal library, nobody will acuse the king of neglecting his duty, if he just enjoyed himself there for two to three hours. Of course, if this was one of those shockers, a bomb in the library at that hour would have easily destroyed the whole kingdom, with or without the presence of the king, but I’m letting my sick and tired imagination get better of me. I believe the 2nd season will bring more hardship onto Shuurei. It will be interesting how she will cope with, and sometimes make use of, some situation where you just can’t win.
wontaek added these pithy words on Feb 26 07 at 11:45 amMou, its over.
Ah well, mebbe I’ll have a SaiMo marathon to make me happy.
SaiMo and Ghost Hunt are probably my two favourite shows right now.
It has been so much fun to watch the trials and tribulations, not just of Shuurei, but also those of Ryuuki. Both have changed quite a bit from when we first saw them and no wonder given all that they have experienced throughout this season.
As much as I really want them to end up together, I am glad there was no kiss this time. Because I think the lack of a kiss, and the more muted response from Shuurei, signifies that not only have they, themselves matured, but so has their relationship.
Ryuuki isn’t as brash and forward as he used to be and Shuurei isn’t closing herself off like she did before.
D.J added these pithy words on Feb 26 07 at 2:31 pmI may say that I was crying a little bit for Ryuuki!I know Ryuuki has a very special character in this season!as this episode explains that Ryuuki will be alone someday!I mean he will a very lonely path since that he is the king,why?have to be like that?meaning to say emperor has no right to be happy?although I’m not really expecting that Ryuuki will have Shuurei in this season and the next one!but in some reason I’m very sad about the result of this season!what I like expect for the next season is”that Ri Kouyuu will fall in love too!must be very cute!
as for Reishin,yes he has plenty of time to say that “Shuurei I am your uncle!but what I don’t understand why he didn’t do it?thats also I’m very curious to find out!
*Impz -arigatu!that the only thing I can say! otherwise you refuses all of my invitations!I will give you a BIG HUG for this season!
*13sugars-hah!see as I expected hek hek!
*D.J-get well soon,if your sick!or your sick of me? is that so?hehehehehe
na2niet added these pithy words on Feb 26 07 at 2:58 pmWow, I should say, your blogging is one of the best, if it’s not the best ^_^. Especially for Saiunkoku, which I think is a pretty hard series. I love to read your thoughts after each summary too.
I’ll be faithfully waiting for the 2nd season ^_^… thanks a lot!!!
@na2niet Yes Ryuuki is special and he deserves to be happy. Alas it seems his lot in life is to be lonely though. But at least Shuurei is now open to the possibility…maybe.
And thank you, hopefully it won’t take me too long to shake this cold. Nope not sick of you, just sick of being sick ^-^ Maybe a nice cup of tea will help. And maybe I should bake some banana bread to go with it, that sounds kind of yummy.
D.J added these pithy words on Feb 26 07 at 6:08 pm@Monia: This is from my point of view…I think that the part where Shuurei told Ryuuki to sit and he did would be more for comedy relief than an actual rejection for his love. Shuurei does not treat Ryuuki like a dog.
Maybe I didn’t make my previous comment clear enough. ^^;
–
Information obtained from the NHK Saiunkoku website:
There are 4 more episodes airing after this episode. They are supposed to be summaries for season one.
03/03/2007: 彩雲国絵巻I～後宮浪漫～
10/03/2007: 彩雲国絵巻II～王宮
“I actually feel that they will still not be together at the very end. Yes, I do not know why but I have a feeling that the distance between the two of them is still ok now, but when Ryuuki finally becomes as much as an emperor, that distance will increase. I do wonder if the two will be the same, and I cannot expect them to. Call me pessimistic but I do not see a romantic end for the two of them.”
And I’m romantic, so I’m going to hold on fast to the hope that they WILL end up together.
Slightly off-topic: Esp. since the fact that Ryuuki needs Shuurei to be a better emperor. Kings and emperors have always been lonely, which is why they always need at least one person to stand by them and believe in them. I’m actually thinking of that Tang Tai Zong emperor, the one with Concubine Yang who was faulted with destroying the Tang dynasty. However, Tang Tai Zong turned to Concubine Yang because he needed her, her support and her love. He used to be a good emperor before becoming too fascinated by Yang. On the other hand, suppose that Concubine Yang is someone like Shuurei, and Tang Tai Zong is more like Ryuuki. Then Tang Tai Zong wouldn’t have ruined the country; he would have brought it even more prosperity with Yang’s help.
I just thought that the situation of Ryuuki and Shuurei is almost the exact opposite of Tang Tai Zong and Concubine Yang. They also develop in opposite direction.
But anyway. Back on topic.
Monia says: “Had she liked Ryuuki , after the experience with Sakujun she should have run between Ryuuki’s arms, had she realised what her feelings for him were… but since she has no feelings of love for him she can’t, she can’t even accept a kiss… ”
I have to respectfully disagree. It is exactly because she is confused with Sakujun that she is confused with the situation with Ryuuki. Firstly, I have doubts that Shuurei has anything more than a passing attraction to Sakujun, something that developed entirely because to the forceful way he’s exerting his attraction to her. She felt guilty that she has, indirectly or directly in her mind, caused Sakujun’s death. On the other hand, Sakujun’s type of love forced her to open her heart, to acknowledge the possibility of love, and that there are people who will (and did) actually give up their lives for her. Before that, Ryuuki’s love, which is a lot less forceful and less of a power play, has not been able to do that.
So Shuurei has begun to open her heart. Unfortunately, she is still completely confused. She hasn’t accepted the fact that love can be there alongside with career and work. Therefore, she is not able to accept/acknowledge any kind of feelings for Ryuuki. That is, however, not to say that she has no feelings for him; she just haven’t acknowledged it to herself.
There are a few parts in this episode that hint that she has feelings for Ryuuki. Like, she sits there thinking that in the end, she has only seen Ryuuki once, on the throne. The look on her face convinced me that she has feelings for him.
As for not letting Ryuuki kiss her, I actually think that’s a bigger step towards romance. Previously, she has been unable to stop Ryuuki from kissing her. Ryuuki has never been stopped from kissing her before. This scene shows that A) Shuurei is actually participating, all be it rejecting it, instead of being the passive victim. (This is due in a large part to Sakujun, IMO) B) the relationship between Ryuuki and Shuurei is no longer one-sided, and it’s not just Ryuuki making all the moves and Shuurei doing nothing at all. C) There is more respect between Ryuuki and Shuurei, as compared to Shuurei and Sakujun. And respect is as essential as love in a relationship.
I personally think this is a step forward to their relationship. Shuurei is not ready for Ryuuki’s love yet, but she is opening herself to the possibility. When compared to her initial reaction to Ryuuki’s declaration, well, I maintain that there’s more possibility between them.
Briar added these pithy words on Feb 26 07 at 8:46 pmOh man, I didn’t expect my last post to be so long. Sorry…. X_X”
One more thing to add (sorry!!), the scene where Shuurei ordered Ryuuki to sit down, I see it more as a role reversal than something that reminded me of a dog. It shows that Ryuuki and Shuurei are at an equal footing, not the whole emperor-official relationship.
I personally love that scene…
Briar added these pithy words on Feb 26 07 at 8:49 pmthis is also my first time to comment here, although i’ve been following the blog for a while now. Thank you thank you (100x) to Impz for doing this whole blogging thing, i mean, i would go completely insane if not for your weekly summaries.
As for the whole Ryuuki x Shuurei x Seiran thing (i’m pro Ryuuki x Shuurei) i think that one possible way for Ryuuki to “escape” this “loneliness” and have greater chances of getting Shuurei’s love is if he and Seiran actually switch places. After all, Seiran IS the supposed legitimate heir to the throne (at least more “legitimate” than Ryuuki). However, this way of thinking may result in a) Political upheaval or even crisis b)Ryuuki to break his word (that whole deal he made with being a good emperor to save Shuurei’s life.) but then… I dunno… Seiran is a smart guy, and he is in no way inferior to Ryuuki. it’s just that maybe all his experiences in the Sa Province may have warped his personality. Also, it would make sense because it seems like Seiran loves both Shuurei and Ryuuki and he wants to protect them both but somehow, his dilemma is always his lack of power. And since he doesn’t look like he has a love interest exclusive to him (at least not yet. harhar) and that he seems ok to work alone and have good rapport with other people, i think he can handle it. Well anyway, if i could choose the ending of Saiunkoku Monogatari for season 2 (or season n, in case they make dozens of sequels. haha) i guess i would end it that way.
Again, thank you for blogging Saiunkoku Monogatari and i’m looking forward to 2nd season’s entries!!! More power and i wish you all the best.
Uruz 8 added these pithy words on Feb 26 07 at 9:05 pmThank you so much impz for all the summaries! They have been extremely helpful to better understand the anime when the english subs are not out yet.
I’m still pro Ryuukix Shuurei. Perhaps, in season 2, it will be more development on Shuurei’s part, but i have a weird feeling that it’s gonna be another love triangle on Ryuuki’s part, that he is forced to wed for an heir and another concubine is brought into the castle… i think that i’m thinking too much cuz it’s so cliche.
Either way, i can’t wait for season 2 too! Thanks lots for all your efforts! Really appreciate it.
sunny added these pithy words on Feb 26 07 at 10:35 pmhello from a lurker who have been here for some time too.
Thanks for blogging about Saikoku Monogatari for so long time! You do a really good job! Reading your summaries makes my day actually. Well, keep up the good work
I will always be pro Ryuuki/Shuurei I think. I sympathize with Ryuuki a lot more than Seiran.
Seiran is the rightful heir who refused his throne, and Ryuuki is the replacement who was forced to take the throne.
Plus, Seiran gets to hang out with Shuurei all the time, so he is not lonely. But Ryuuki… he got stuck with being the 孤皇寡人 for life. ;_; Poor guy.
Ori added these pithy words on Feb 26 07 at 11:23 pmsorry to say!but I don’t like Seiran at all!Ryuuki is enough to take the throne!for me he is the perfect
emperor !
*Monia-shuurei did not treat him like a dog?jeez where did you get that idea,is it treating like a dog,if you humbly rejects someone!I guess shuurei is trying to be honest herself,since that from now own,she has plenty of things to do! but anyway about that Sakujun and Shuurei,in my opinion,I think Shuurei like Sakujun,the way he was!and love at all!I think she felt sorry,for him!when he died!thats all!
na2niet added these pithy words on Feb 26 07 at 11:42 pm*D.J-I do admit I like saiunkoku and Ghost Hunt,as well as Code Geass!sorry Impz,I was trying cheat you!but D.J hows your feeling now?you okay?
*Uruz-hope you enjoy blogging here,I tell you the truth!some of people here,I think they’re doing anything at all!hehehehehe !
*Briar-jeez your almost taking the whole page round!hek hek
na2niet added these pithy words on Feb 26 07 at 11:49 pm………….
Darn it! I can’t make a comment yet. -_-
I haven’t watched the 39th episode (raw) yet. -_-
I haven’t read this entry nor its comments yet. -_-
And I’m not off from my work yet either.
………….(sighs)
ThirteenSugars added these pithy words on Feb 27 07 at 12:03 am*13 sugars-hope you enjoy saimono 39!its quit interesting!sad too!
na2niet added these pithy words on Feb 27 07 at 12:16 am@wontaek: That will not make you a good king, will it? I think he has set his mind to be the best, since Shuurei herself is working hard. If he slacked off, he will be just like the many useless kings in the world, losing their sanity to women, sex and money. That is perhaps why even if no one knows it, he still maintains that strength. He wanted to make sure that he’s a worthy king for Shuurei. Did he promise her about it because I remember something that Shuurei mentioned about him being a righteous king?
@Monia: Yes, it is clear that Shuurei has the feelings but not the maturity to handle it. Add to the fact that the responsibility of being a new governor, I think the last thing she wants is the de-tracking of her goals with a romance. With her actions, she acknowledged that she is indeed in love with Ryuuki but she cannot abandon her goals. That’s why she asked him to wait.
@na2viet: I am always wondering how Reishin does not and his excuse that he’s shy and a lonely person makes no sense. I simply allocate to his eccentricity. Either that or he feels regretful that he stole the rightful place of Shouka as the Kou clan’s leader. I am not sure though since there is some problems previously. Anyone care to help me answer that perhaps?
@Alka: Thanks for the compliment but there are tons of anime blogs that are way better. I am glad that you like it and do comment and discuss more ya ^+^
@Briar: After replying monia, I realize Briar made a better explanation. Rawr you but I fully agree on your guess of the two of them. Tang Tai Zong and Concubine Yang? I am a bit inadequate with it. What’s their relationship even though it’s a bit of a digression?
@Uruz: Glad you did. I am hoping to attract more lurkers to comment because anime bloggers feed on comments. Without comments, we will die and rot and feel depressed. Just half-kidding since I do love comments to reply to, ahaha~
Seiran will never switch places with Ryuuki. That will only cause internal strife since there are many who disliked Seiran a lot since he was considered to be the most talented among the crown princes. Having another king will just be extremely problematic, which is why Seiran never admitted to it. He did not want to be in such a life where he has to fight off opposition both in the dark and in the light.
Even though it might be easy to just say they could switch, both parties will get hurt nevertheless. I agree hence with your “but it cannot happen” statements.
Impz added these pithy words on Feb 27 07 at 2:06 am@yuriko: Thank you. It might sound like a very repeated statement for patronizing but to have a lurker say that what I did is good is extremely gratifying. Do comment more and discuss as well, yes?
@Ori: That is perhaps why Ryuuki said that when he had the interaction of Seiran.
“Ryuuki said he still admired Seiran, as he did not even have the opportunity or the right to be angry at such a failure.”
That part of the show really made me feel how helpless Ryuuki is that he cannot even protect the woman he loves. He can only depend on others to keep her safe. How agonizing is that, really, not to be able to even do anything but to do your own work wholeheartedly. Only a man with a strong heart can do it, which will elicit pity for Ryuuki. Seriously.
@na2viet: I think the part on the dog is still hilarious nevertheless. Hah, it’s just Shuurei being shy about the kiss, that’s all.
@13sugars: I feel like saying “hahaha, too bad” but I guess i will not be so mean. Oops.
Impz added these pithy words on Feb 27 07 at 2:11 am*Impz-for Reishin is not mature enough I think!hehehehe
is he really an assassin?jeez,he’s acting like idiot when it comes to Shouka and Shuurei!but I like he’s character though!about the dog it wasn’t idea it was from Monia’s comments!so like 13sugars I’m off to work as well see later!
to na2niet: Reishin, an assassin?? I think you mean Shouka, right? lol, I like Reishin too, especially watching Kijin and him quarrel. It’s fun! ^^
Parcivale added these pithy words on Feb 27 07 at 4:41 am“Tang Tai Zong and Concubine Yang? I am a bit inadequate with it. What’s their relationship even though it’s a bit of a digression?”
I just realized I mixed up the names. It’s not Tang Tai Zong, it’s Tang Xuan Zong. *totally embarrassed*
Digression coming up! (I’m going to have to use some Chinese names Sorry…)
Tang Xuan Zong
Briar added these pithy words on Feb 27 07 at 7:09 am@na2niet, I’m feeling much better than yesterday thank you.
@Briar, Its a good thing Ryuuki isn’t anything like the Emperor you mention. Shuurei would never accept a slacker! ^-^
D.J added these pithy words on Feb 27 07 at 2:07 pm*Parcivale~yes seiran says so!as I reviewed episode 24,it says there clearly!as Seiran and Ensei talking about Shuurei’s incoming marriage proposal to the second son of the Sa clan!which is Sakujun!right?Seiran says very clear to Ensei that”anyway you look at it,there’s no way that marriage proposal would be accepted.Even if there were a remote chance it were accepted,that Sakujun guy…would be killed by the assassins Reishin-duno sent after him and it’d all be over in an instant”
and I also remember one episode,if I’m not mistakes its Kouyuu and Shuuei are talking together with Ryuuki,says that Reishin is hunting Sakujun!but sorry I don’t remember the number of the episodes!I guess I have to reviewed the whole Saiunkoku for your own convenience!
hehehehehe!
for the second season..did someone read the manga?
maybe we can have some spoiler about who Shuurei going end.
Really good serie and happy they have a second season!
*na2niet,
not only that, in the beginning (when Shuurei was in training) Reishin is talking to the official in charge of the “students” telling (sort of) “I seriously considered sending assasins after you….” and also telling his brother that all the assasins he sent after (whoever it was-I have forgotten-one of the councellors?) constantly failed…
Also lets not forget, Shuurei’s father is an assasin himself..
Bibliofil added these pithy words on Feb 27 07 at 7:41 pmDude, that was so cute and fluffy and adorable ending for season one. I’m back to RyuukixShuurei fan mode eventhough I still love Seiran a lot too. It looks like Shuurei’s feelings for Ryuuki has grown. They’ll definitely end up together. That’s for sure. Shouka even commented something about how fate works in its own time. I love how Shuurei killed the sappy atmosphere and ordered Ryuuki around. One thing that reminded me why I love this pairing is that they’re so amusing to watch. ^.^ *flashback to the time where Ryuuki was sending her gifts as anonymous* Also, Ryuuki is so good-looking it’s ethereal! x.x His lip close ups and side view shots, the flowing hair are just….way to go Bishie haha
About Seiran taking over the throne, I’ve thought of that but realized that I wouldn’t want that because that’s going to be a total inconvenience for Seiran, considering that he has found a home in Shouka’s house and his nature. Also, I really want him to always be beside Shuurei. *nods* The musical interlude at the end made me realize that April will be a very long time for me so it’s just me and Ghost Hunt now LOL
Big thanks for blogging this season ^___^
Ricaryx added these pithy words on Feb 27 07 at 11:19 pmI basically agree with almost everyone’s comments and opinions here. And quite frankly, all I can I say about this last episode is that I’m glad; very glad that my heart was not broken at all. ^^
I believe that the Shuurei x Ryuuki love-love supporter in me was left with hope, albeit a tiny glow, but that’s enough for me to feel contentment for the first seasons of SaiMono.
In all honesty, though I’m a hapless hopeless romantic, I too don’t expect Ryuuki and Shuurei to end up being together even in the second season. However, I am clinging to the hope that even if they don’t end up being together, they would at least, eventually, reciprocate each others’ feelings and acknowledge that they both love one another.
But then again, who knows, right? Shouka’s words about fate might just prove true as Shuurei and Ryuuki seem to reflect how Shouka and his deceased wife were at the beginning of their relationship. A happy ending is something more than I could wish for in this series. ^^
~Monia~ “it was even worse, it was a crush that drives a woman crazy, one has no control of it……..
ThirteenSugars added these pithy words on Feb 28 07 at 3:46 am@ ThirteenSugars: “Briar has already pointed out so eloquently in his/her comment about it.”
I am most definitely a “her”. And a most rabid Ryuuki and Naru fan-”her” at that.
Thanks for the sugar cookies, btw. And I’m STILL going to hold on to the hope that Ryuuki and Shuurei will end up together one day. *nods fervently*
Briar added these pithy words on Feb 28 07 at 4:31 am*delurks*
I just wanna say thanks for blogging this wonderful series!
SeiranXShuurei
miu added these pithy words on Feb 28 07 at 6:58 am@Miu: no problem ^_^;;;
By the way, as stated by Parcivale, there will be 4 episodes of summaries and the likes. I think I will use it to promote Saimono and give a brief overview for it.
Also, the idealist in me is hoping that Ryuuki and Shuurei will be together.
Impz added these pithy words on Feb 28 07 at 7:10 amIt ends exactly according to my imagination.An opening to a further relationship.
For Impz: thanks for the update and the thought. I agree with you. As you said that Ryuuki has his deep delight when Shuurei finally called him by name because there will be no one ever to do that. And at the end, Shuurei still address him by his name even though shuurei is an official now. (I suddenly thought that maybe, ryuuki was a bit afraid that Shuurei will never address him by his name due to her position as Sa governor now)
And come to think that why he has been waiting shuurei to come to see him and not he is the one who’s looking for her just like before (in private and not in court) after she came back is … maybe Ryuuki thought that if shuurei herself come to see him, it means that shuurei willing to maintain personal relationship with him just like before and keep addressing him by his name.
Addressing by his name is something that important for him. Addressing by his name mean acknowledge him as a person.Poor ryuuki…Being alone since child and even now as an emperor. Nevertheless he still become a great ruler. Ryuuki is just awesome !!
Just as Ricary said: “I love how Shuurei killed the sappy atmosphere and ordered Ryuuki around” …hahahahaha…yeah me too. It’s like a husband and wife’s relationship (in anime, of couse) :D…
It’s clear to me that ryuuki still has somebody who see him as a person, not an emperor.And as for shuurei…the way she interact with ryuuki in this state show us how is ryuuki dear with her heart.
If she really closed her heart to ryuuki, she will try her best not to get familiar with him as she is an official now and will never address ryuuki by his name again. But she is not.
Shuurei does care for ryuuki in the bottom of her heart, she is just not aware it now. And that is the seed of love
Persistently hoping ryuuki x shuurei end up together
yuuri added these pithy words on Feb 28 07 at 9:39 pmwow, you even replied my post!
thank you, and I’ll post comments if I have something to say, that is.
Okay, I just have to clear one thing straight. ^^ I don’t expect Ryuuki and Shuurei to really end up togethet, but I can’t deny the undying hope I have that they do end up together and in love with one another. ^^
~Yuuri~ “And that is the seed of love.” (nods) That is probably the perfect term to address Shuurei x Ryuuki’s relationship status. ^^
ThirteenSugars added these pithy words on Mar 01 07 at 2:02 am*13sugars,who do you think Shuurei’s partner?don’t tell me we have the same idea?but I won’t whose in my mind,and beats me,there will be third season for Saiunkoku!hah,seems like Fushigi Yuugi!I’m just hoping the saiunkoku will have good ending,otherwise!I think I have to give up!to tell you the truth,with this THAT blog,I won’t able to find girlfriends!hek hek!because instead of seeking a date!I’m in my computer!imagine that!I’m to lose tracks and I would end up to be NUN,someday!
na2niet added these pithy words on Mar 01 07 at 2:24 am@Yuuri: That human aspect of Ryuuki is somehow lost gradually by a few steps. Firstly, we have not seen much of him ever since the last Sakujun arc. Secondly, the only few times we see him, he is buried in scrolls and tomes, doing his work as an emperor. To state that he has a lonely life is an understatement.
Everyone thinks being an emperor will be easy. Well, being a crappy one is definitely easy as the first two to three episodes will show. However, if Ryuuki intends to be a true emperor, it is perhaps one of the least rewarding jobs in the world. I think if I am offered that emperor role, I will reject it happily with two hands.
To divert to a different topic, I have a feeling that Seiran has finally found his place in the world. If you notice, Seiran has never really called Shouka’s house as home, simply seeing himself as a visitor. He is always polite, honoring Shouka but to me, there’s a subtle difference. Unlike a son, he acts as though he’s a mere visitor imposing on Shuurei and her family. That is including the fact that he’s mentally dependent on him.
Only in this episode do we see how Seiran really feels like a part of the family. It is perhaps Sakujun who has helped him in realizing the important people in his life.
What do you think of my logic? If that’s the case, Seiran has lived a big portion of his life in slavery of his mind.
Impz added these pithy words on Mar 01 07 at 3:25 am~Na2niet~ I’ve always been a Shuurei x Ryuuki pairing supporter. There is no one else I can think of whom Shuurei will really be happy ending up with. I mean, sure she can be happy if she ends up with someone else, but I don’t think it’ll be the same kind of happiness her mother felt when she was with Shouka.
~Impz~ As much as I’d like to comment about the house/home concept of Seiran, I’m afraid I can’t as I’m still waiting for the Eng-fansubs to come out. I’m waiting to see how these fansubbers will translate the whole dialogue. However, I definitely agree with your opinion that Sakujun helped Seiran realize that he now has a family that cares about him. In my opinion, Shouka and Shuurei are his sanctuary, the people who serve as the anchors of his sanity and well-being.
ThirteenSugars added these pithy words on Mar 01 07 at 4:56 am*13suagrs:I have proof in that case!who will Shuurei choose!but don’t asked who?me myself I’d like to find out why is that possible!
na2niet added these pithy words on Mar 01 07 at 5:27 amawww… ryuukis and shuurei are sooo cute together.. looking at ryuuki’s face makes me want to be shuurei and just hug and kiss him.. hehehe.. i feel bad for him since he’s becoming lonelier and lonelier.. i hope next season shuurei can help him with that.. i hate it when people say that there’s no chance that ryuuki and shuurei will be a couple and that it’s more possible that seiran and shuurei will end up together. what do you guys think? i think it’s ryuuki and shuurei.. i think seiran sees shuurei as a younger sister and i know he cares a lot about ryuuki and wants him to be happy and i think ryuuki’s happiness is shuurei..
LL13JL added these pithy words on Mar 04 07 at 10:21 pmgah! stupid shuurei for kissing sakujun! he looks gay anyway!
LL13JL added these pithy words on Mar 04 07 at 10:24 pm@LL13JL: I think that Shuurei is physically charmed by Sakujun since he’s pretty much like a pretty boy. I highly doubt that Seiran and Shuurei will be together because they have more of a sibling relationship rather than one of romance. If anything, the only reason why he placed himself in front was merely due to Sakujun as I said that before in an earlier episode analysis.
If there is anyone that Shuurei will end up with, it will be highly likely that the first candidate will be Ryuuki, no one else. Of course, I will wish that some form of romance will sprout from Seiran and Shuurei since I like this pairing but it’s merely realism to think that the two already have feelings that they cannot fulfill due to their political ambitions for now.
Impz added these pithy words on Mar 04 07 at 11:26 pmHey…Summary episode 1 is out
Parcivale added these pithy words on Mar 09 07 at 9:37 pm^_^ ya, it’s out. However, I am not going to blog on it because I decided that it is mostly covering the overview of the series from 1-39 ^_^;;;
Impz added these pithy words on Mar 10 07 at 4:09 amvery new to this blog, so I can’t say to have followed everything that has been said. But I am very grateful for the summary for the last few episodes since I felt the need to find out what was in store for Shuurei.
It broke my heart to see the effect Sakujun had on her. Whatever her feelings for him were, and it was highly likely physical since she knew next to nothing about him, the fact that he disappeared from her life so abruptly, before she could make a firm decision about him, well… it makes for a great deal of confusion. Sakujun was admittedly an awful man (to put it lightly) but he was very charming and Shuurei responded to that.
In reference to Ryuuki, I love him. He is growing into his power and is devoted to Shuurei, and that I think would be quite seductive. However his position is in many ways constricting, there is only so much freedom he would have, and yes he can say he’ll wait as long as it takes for Shuurei, but how long would his advisers allow him that freedom. He is creating a better kingdom, but it’s not worth much if there are no heirs, he can’t just leave it hanging placing everything they’re striving for in jeopardy. Yes they are young, but considering disease, wars and other unforseen occurrences, can they afford to take chances? And at this point I think Shuurei sees Ryuuki as a very dear friend and would be in no great hurry to change the status quo. She is aware there is more to life than just her career, but I think doing the best for her province will consume her life for the forseeable future, as far as you can predict something like this, but she always throws all of herself into each task. and also it is a fair distance to Ryuuki from the Brown Province so how often would she make the trip anyway? …
But then again maybe Ryuuki will make huge inroads into Shuurei’s feelings, so that Shuurei herself will make an effort to forge something other than friendship. Anything is possible.
But if anything does develop it better be something worthy of Ryuuki.
And there is my two cent’s worth (probably less), and once again thank you very much for taking the time to provide us with these summaries, especially as you give your take on the actions of the characters. More often than not it gave me something to think about, or provided details and nuances that I missed so thank you. (btw . sorry for the length of this thing^^)
vree added these pithy words on Mar 24 07 at 10:08 amFirst of all, welcome to the little haven of mine ^+^
Hey Vree, even though Sakujun used his physical charm to flirt with Shuurei, it was perhaps the only way he knew to make Shuurei fall in love with him. On a outsider’s point of view without caring much, it just seems to us that he is a serial flirt. However, for him, it is probably something that is the most purest for her. Yes, he is evil but you cannot deny that they have some strange chemistry, hehe.
*no, i am not a sakujun x Shuurei supporter*
Well, I guess if anything, the unresolved situation of Shuurei and Ryuuki will not come anything soon. Even though this series is based loosely on history, as well as romance, I do not yet see romance coming deep into it . We did have clues that Shuurei has fallen in love with Ryuuki but it is merely her own conviction as an official.
Impz added these pithy words on Mar 24 07 at 5:09 pmThanks for blogging the whole first season of SaiMono. I had really enjoyed reading your episode summaries and watching the fansubbed version as well.
Now I can’t wait for a fansub group to sub the second series.
Thanks and keep up the good work
whaa~
thanks for blogging Saiunkoku~! I didn’t follow through with all your posts (sadly) cuz i only found this blog recently.
anyways my thoughts:
i had hoped the Sakujun had more of an impact on Shuurei and how she would be around Ryyuki, but i guess his death never really did. It actually felt like Shuurei totally forgot about Sakujun in the last 2 episodes, haha. Not that his death didn’t impact her (it did), but well.. considering how similar Ryuuki and Sakujun were (regarding thier affection for Shuurei and how they both regarded her and acted similar), i was kinda thinking that Shuurei would back off a bit when Ryyuki told her that she loved him, and how he brushed his fingers over her lips (Sakujun did the same thing before).
Anwyays, as you can tell, i liked Sakujun, even though he was evil. The only thing i disliked about him was his purple lipstick that he had on after it was revealed that he was of the Sa clan.
I don’t get it, are evil characters suppose to have purple lips? is it, like, a characteristic of theirs that tells us readers that he’s the bad guy? Cuz i don’t udnerstand why they couldn’t just leave them like they were before, he looked better that way.
I feel sorry for Ryuuki, being the emperor means having to lead a lonesome life *sigh*, and he’s so young too, to take such a role. Even Shuuei and Kouyuu regard Ryuuki as “Shi Ryuuki the emperor”
=(
so i’m happy that Shuuhei called him by his name~
hehe.
i kidna think that there’s really no way that Seiran and Shuuhei could be together, even though Seiran does have the freedom (which Ryuuki dosen’t), i don’t think that Seiran will like Shuurei in that way, cuz there’s Ryuuki to consider. And i’m pretty sure Seiran knows that if he would to ever like Shuurei in that way, he would break Ryuuki. And well, i doubt he’d want to break his brother’s heart.
=P
I think i’m analyzing this a bit too much x___x” haha. Anyways, thanks for blogging Saiunkoku!!
=)
@Ois: No problem and I am going on with the second season as well, so I hope you enjoy viewing my entries from there too ^^
@LockVII: LOl, DON’T WORRY. i THINK I am the only person here who will over analyze things quite a bit but as stated earlier, Seiran and Shuurei are more like siblings rather than a couple, so you are right in speculating it.
However, I doubt that the reason will be to fear hurting Ryuuki. If anything, Seiran will do anything to win it over, but he cares more about Shuurei’s happiness than anything else. ^^
Impz added these pithy words on Apr 13 07 at 9:06 pmHeya! I’ve been following your blog for a while since it’s one of those rare ones on Animeblogger.com that actually covers Saiunkoku, and I just wanted to say that I really enjoy reading your thoughts on the series. Its fun to be able to see what other people think of this awesome show. And even though I don’t really read your summaries since I prefer not to spoil the episodes for myself,I must say I’m very impressed with how much detail you put into each one.
Anyway, I personally thought that as heart-warming an episode this was, it was also incredibly sad - when you contrast the cheery welcome scene with the solitary Ryuuki, and the fact that he’ll probably be alone for a very long time to come (I shan’t say forever since I’m being optimistic and hoping that the author has a good ending in mind for him. :D), it just makes his situation all the more stark. Even though it seemed obvious at the start that Ryuuki and Shuurei were the “destined” pair, now after so many episodes it ironically seems as if it’ll be even harder for the two to end up together than before. Quite an unusual development for a shoujo story, and although I welcome the refreshing change, I can’t help but feel really sorry for poor Ryuuki. ^_^;; I really wonder how the author is going to develop the story in the future to make it plausible for Ryuuki and Shuurei to end up together. (Although I can’t quite decide whether I like Shuurei better with Ryuuki or Seiran, as I said before it seems hinted that Ryuuki and Shuurei are meant to be the eventual couple. The anime ED certainly seems to think so anyway. :p)
modorenai added these pithy words on Apr 13 07 at 9:24 pmI really hope to see the actual face of that eccentric guy behind the face lol…
BigHeadDog added these pithy words on Apr 18 07 at 1:34 ami thought the ending was really good. at first i was watching it and i didn’t realize it was the end of the first season and thought….wait, this doesn’t seem right….and then i found out it was the last episode for the first season, and that there was going to be a second season. i was so happy!!! i’m so excited!!!!!!!! i can’t wait for then.
Chantel added these pithy words on Apr 22 07 at 9:42 amThanks for the summary…I really liked it even though they did not confessed their love for each other…I AM so happy that I FOUND SOMEONE to tell me about the last episdde.thanks so much!!!!You made me happier….
althea added these pithy words on Oct 24 07 at 8:28 amuhhh, i love shuurei and ryuuki.. i actually bought the whole thing, like from the beginning to end.. i do hope there’s a second part, i mean its like unfinished..
pusapusa added these pithy words on Oct 24 07 at 8:29 pmhello! just stumbled upon this site while searching for saiunkoku monogatari stuff… recently gounf myself hooked on this series and actually finished the entire of season 1 during my exam period =.= but it’s almost compulsive mwahaha this is a really gd series! love especially how the relationships are portrayed and the development of the characters. shouka’s words at the end about ryuuki’s oneliness were really beautiful in a melancholic way..
tarelyn added these pithy words on Dec 02 07 at 11:34 pm