It is the finale of the Saiunkoku Monogatari second season. The series has been a really wonderful and beautiful tale. Hence, let us embrace the very last episode of the season. Hopefully we will get to see a new season very soon in a year or two. Let me go on with the introduction for the last episode.
As Ryuuki finally makes his way back to the palace, the little things that he has been escaping will be back in full throttle. Ryuuki has to face the music. Will a revitalized and refocused emperor of Saiunkoku be able to handle this? How will the last episode wrap up the conclusion for the second season?
Screenshots: http://www.sendspace.com/file/qzocul
Episode summary
Tantan and Ensei are discussing about how everyone is letting Shuurei do what she wants. That will cause her to be alone forever. Ensei tells Tantan to tell Seiran, but Tantan says he does not want to be attacked by Seiran. Tantan also realizes that Ensei likes Shuurei, and Ensei praises Tantan for being perceptive. Shuuei, on the other hand, is thinking about Shusui. Jyuusan-Hime is thinking of Shun as she dumps the eye patch into the water. Ryuuren appears and Jyuusan-hime talks about how Ryuuren stopped the heavy rain. Assuming that Jyuusan-hime is asking him to play again, he does obligingly. Shuuei is thinking how Ryuuren is not a bonus prize to take away (given by his triplet brothers), but a very unlucky charm.
Yuushun and Seiran comes to pick up Ryuuki, with Ryuuki apologizing for his selfishness. He asks if he is too late, but Yuushun simply tells him to work hard together. Seiran also eyes Shuuei critically. Seiran says that Shuuei has no shame at all by returning and says that there might be a possibility that a scenario like this may happen again. Shuuei says he has decided to follow Ryuuki, abandoning his Ran clan and swears upon the flower of the emperor. That impresses Seiran, as he shows his respect with a smile. Tantan also reports that Shuurei did enter Jiuzhaigou despite his objection. When Tantan walks past, Seiga says he’s an idiot. Tantan says he is, but he will never do something like that for Seiga.
Shuurei gives Kouki his food explaining that it is only available in Jiuzhaigou. Kouki reminds Shuurei that she will be dismissed if she enters Jiuzhaigou, and Shuurei asks what Tantan says to him. Shuurei asks whether Kouki uses Tantan’s father as ransom to observe her, and Kouki says he did. He also tells Shuurei that Tantan is willing to be dismissed for Shuurei. Shuurei tries to argue, but Kouki says it is normal for a subordinate to take the rap for a superior. He also tells Shuurei that he approved it and Tantan is probably leaving right now. Shuurei is flabbergasted, and gives chase. Kouki, after seeing Shuurei leave, wonders whether Seiga (who betrays everyone) and Shuurei (who helps everyone) will rise to the top.
Tantan is thinking how Shuurei will be angry, but knows that she will not make the same mistake. Shuurei makes it in time, and reminds him about the loan she gave him. Tantan promises to return, and Shuurei promises that she will become a good official and find him back. In fact, Tantan is not dismissed, but is given a raise as a proper investigative officer. Tantan’s father mentions that it is good so that they can enjoy a farming life. Anjun says the king is impressive to return from the Hyou temple, and talks about the myth of the Hyou clan. Ouki says it’s merely a myth. Anjun says his plan to hurt Shuurei did not work as Shuurei gets Ryuuki back. Ryuuki is also informed that Ouki is behind this.
Yuushun suspects it is the ten clauses they have set and says that it is his fault. Ryuuki argues that Yuushun is simply doing it for Ryuuki. Yuushun says it is probably from the time where the previous emperor exterminated many noble clans. Yuushun also informs that the news on Ryuuki’s trip to Jiazhaigou is leaked. Ryuuki apologizes for being a coward when the throne needs him, and he wants to be a king from his experience in Jiuzhaigou. He asks Yuushun whether he is willing to follow the king. The determination shown from Ryuuki’s eyes tells Yuushun that Ryuuki is serious and he says he will follow Ryuuki to the end of the world.
In the throne room, there are murmurs about Ryuuki’s trip, and how it is inappropriate. People notice that Ryuuki’s eyes are very different from before. Ryuuki stares at Ouki in a battle of eyes, but neither backed down. Ensei is with Shuurei and Shouka, as Shuurei tells him to study for the imperial examination. Ensei says that he can stick with Shuurei, but Shuurei says that he has to study to help Ryuuki. Shouka also agrees. Shuurei says Ryuuren can help in studying. Strangely, Ryuuren appears and says that he can help lost people as he blows his flute. Ryuuki looks somewhat relieved from the ordeal. Shuuei and Seiran comes in, saying that the emperor has a lot of support.
Kouyuu somehow finds his way here. He explains that he finishes all the work worth a hundred years and tells Reishin that he needs to take a walk. Kouyuu is glad Shuuei is back. The others also gives Ryuuki support, with Shouka saying that he will make tea for all. Seiran asks if that is not enough support. Ryuuki says he will never be lost, and he will be a king all the way. Shuurei notices that Ryuuki is looking at her intensely. At night, Ryuuki and Shuurei meet. Ryuuki apologizes for his many mistakes, and thanks Shuurei for picking him up. Ryuuki says he hears from Shuuei that Shuurei cried for him. Shuurei tries to deny it profusely, but Ryuuki looks amused.
Ryuuki admits that he can no longer be king for Shuurei. He says he does not understand about the citizens, but he wants to be a worthy king for all. He says that he needs to marry and will bring Jyuusan Hime in. He says that the other person that he trusts with the back palace is Jyuusan Hime, and she is the only one he will marry other than Shuurei. Shuurei is shocked at the revelations. Ryuuki says he will marry since it is part of being an emperor to stabilize, and he cannot wait for Shuurei. Shuurei looks troubled and Ryuuki says that he is glad he has a chance.
Ryuuki says that he will have a competition. If Shuurei is about to escape by a given time, he will give up on her. If Shuurei is to accept his marriage proposal by that time, Ryuuki will win. Shuurei smiles and accepts it. Both of them laughed as Shuurei asks about the time period. Ryuuki simply moves close to his ear, whispering something that cannot be heard. We then see a glimpse of the main characters doing their work as the show ends.
Thoughts
The end is here. It is really depressing to make an entry knowing that the next season for a wonderful series such as Saiunkoku Monogatari will be a very long time away. Nevertheless, I think that the episode ends it off on a very beautiful catch. Here are some of the scenes that really makes me realize why I like Saiunkoku Monogatari. The first thing is the faith of Yuushun. No matter how much Ryuuki falters in his job as an emperor, Yuushun is unwaivering despite anyone’s protests. Even his best friend, Reishin, cannot change his mind. That is a true sign of a minister that is willing to wait for change.
Another thing is Ryuuki. In the end of the first season, he is simply trying to get Shuurei’s attention. I feel that it is a very good shift in terms of him gaining favor in the romance part of his life. In the end of the second season, he has finally developed into an emperor that knows what he should be doing, and not living his life to impress her. He truly wants to be king, but he has not lost himself completely. He still loves Shuurei very much, and is trying to give himself some time to make Shuurei his empress.
That is true maturity. He knows that he has to get what he wants, but he is willing to set a time to end it all and make changes to sacrifice his own self. Of course, for most of us, we want him to be with Shuurei. Jyuusan Hime and Ryuuki is not a poor alternative though, and even Ryuuki says that he will marry Jyuusan Hime if Shuurei does not agree to be with him by the end of the challenge. I really cannot wait for this to come on a new sequel.
One last thing is the animosity between Seiran and Shuuei. I am glad that Seiran finally accepts Shuuei. I have a feeling that Shuuei’s reluctance to choose a side makes him a complete liability, and Seiran is one that does not mince his words. Shuuei, despite his lack of the Ran clan, definitely has Ryuuren’s support. It is clear that Ryuuren’s support is very important since he is the talent of the Ran clan. Kouyuu also shows his insistence to be faithful to both Reishin and Ryuuki. He is truly a man, despite his inability to figure out his directions. Heh heh.
Anyway, let me end the review with a thank you to all the visitors who have used this blog extensively for summaries and discussion. I will miss many of you who comments and have discussions about almost anything under the sun. Yes, I am sometimes guilty of not replying due to evil work life, but I am sure you will forgive me. I am really glad because Saiunkoku Monogatari brings one of the hugest share of visitors for THAT Anime Blog. Thank you all for making these blog entries a total success. Other than that, wait for the podcast on Saiunkoku Monogatari from me and my girlfriend, Thirteensugars. I am very sure you will love it.
Once again, have fun and thank you. I hope that you will still visit us after the next season with our coverage of the spring anime season. BYE!
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Comments (63)
Cant believe it that it has ended!! sob sob.. Hope the 3rd season comes out soon (praying hard) Thank you Impz for blogging SM as the subs are coming out rather slowly but at least theres always you. thanks and hope you will continue to blog when season III is out.
devilyne added these pithy words on Mar 09 08 at 8:47 amHere it is: the very last Saiunkoku episode review! I’m going to take my time and enjoy it! I’ve been glad to follow this series through your summaries. Thanks again lmpz!
Bella added these pithy words on Mar 09 08 at 8:59 amFirst of all I want to thank you for the effort. I read your blog to check on Saiunkoku updates because there is no english subs out yet for the later eps. I am glad everyone is at peace. Ryuuren still surprises and amuses me. Once again the ending shows Ryuuki and Shuurei together talking to each other, just like the last one. It is clear that Shuurei’s feelings for Ryuuki has matured and Ryuuki himself has matured as well. I hope there is a next season and hopefully it could shed more light on them. Good Luck and Great work on this blog.
stef added these pithy words on Mar 09 08 at 9:00 amI agree that the 2nd season ended beautifully… despite the fact that this is last episode, it made me smile… It screamed SEASON 3!!! SEASON 3!!! sEASON 3!!! well, i hope so… i’m willing to wait. hehehe.
btw, i know impz said that novels are evil, but it was the same in the 12th novel. although some scenes varied. anyway, it still ended beautifully. Ryuuki is sooooooooooooooooooo handsome in his deal/competiion scene with Shuurei.
Thank you very much again for the summaries. you’ve been our saviour. we’ll look forward for your future blogs & the podcast too with your girlfriend…
btw, im just curious regarding the last scene where Shuurei & Ryuuki were together on top of the hill overlooking at the capital… that eye contact is something… i smell romance…
SiaoMei added these pithy words on Mar 09 08 at 9:24 amomg how many episodes have i missed out on O.o its ended ALREADY? 
Well I guess I have to go watch all of the 2nd series again since i can’t remember what has happened
I hope they’ll be a third series >0
bamboowitch added these pithy words on Mar 09 08 at 9:26 am*sigh* the end of the second season! but what a great season it had been! thanks for the update 
i’m really proud of ryuuki, he’s changed so much (for the better). and the ryuukixshuurei pairing is really looking up as well, that last scene left everyone hanging didn’t it? can’t wait for what’s gonna happen next (which would be a looong time coming). *sigh* i’ll miss saimono.
hello impz..for a long time I have been following SM thru ur blog summaries. It is definitely a one of a kind anime. I have been a fan of complicated love stories but I do believe that sauinkoku monogatari 3 will definitely a wonderful sequel. thank you for your perseverance in doing this. you just don’t know how you have given me so much joy in reading your blogs. i always anticipate your next blog and it is such a breathe of fresh air to tired soul. SM made me feel excited again despite my monotonous life…so again thank you. I am looking forward to your summaries in the sequel.
Maria added these pithy words on Mar 09 08 at 9:37 amI was worried about the ending of this ep, but I am happy with it. It was great to see Ryuuki becoming more of a King -especially in the presence of Shurrei. For once I feel she might - just might - marry him eventually !
Good to see other characters in the final credits - Eigetsu + Kourin especially. Like everyone else I hope the anime continues at some point in the future - there are so many good stories to be told yet in the world of Saiunkoku.
Thanks again for blogging and I look forward to the podcast with thirteensugars !
Impz, thanks so much for your hard work doing these reviews. This last one is in my opinion, one of your best.
I’m a huge fan of this show. The part when they all met at the archives, made me realize what I love about Saiunkoku Monogatari. It is the fellowship, we need each other support to go ahead, we can not be an island. It is great the warm feeling of knowing there are other human beings there for you, in the happiness and the sorrows.
About Ryuuki and Shuurei, they will end together. This last part when he challenged her, it was the time for her to clear things up. Unlike the end of the first season, she was not willing to tell him: forget about it. But she could have, just saying: “I care about you, but not in that way. I will always be your loyal friend and official. You are free to marry anyone else”. But she didn’t say this or anything near, and instead accepted such a challenge.
Besides, I was checking some of past episodes, whenever they are all together in a group, most of the time, they (Ryuuki and Shuurei) stand up next to each other.
BTW, my favorite characters are Ryuuren and Shouka. We never know what those two are up to.
Jyuusan-Hime and Shun deserves some happiness after so much suffering, there should be a way they can be together. The same goes for Shuuei Shusui.
Just my opinion, thanks again.
Thank you so much! Without your entries I wouldn’t got any grasp of plot, but thanks to you it was possible and I would be only irritated that I don’t know what excaclty going on. You are irreplaceable! It’s good moment for end of second season. Ryuuren is my favourite number one! Beware of the power of his flute!
Nanami added these pithy words on Mar 09 08 at 10:26 amTo be happy or cry….aaaaarggh!! I’m gonna watch these last episodes of SM2, nevermind they’re in RAW & I don’t understand Jap. I just don’t wanna miss the beautiful ending note 
WOW! Now, that’s the ultimate maturing Ryuuki, dude! And the same WOW! goes to Shuuei too. Finally, Seiran gave Shuuei a break after mincing him up a lot lately. Good for that bishie sour puss to smile for once! I mean smile admirably for poor Shuuei who made a hard but honourable choice for the emperor they both love 
Sheez, Shuurei’s so outrageously baka to lie to Ryuuki about her crying! Bravo to Ryuuki for making a cunning move on their romance. I can’t think of a better wake-up call for her other than that time-limit competition. Love to savour this whole meeting moment soon
Thank you so much Impz (& girlfriend too) for your Saiunkoku Monogatari passion to bring us this once-in-a-lifetime gem. Your blog has been a wonderful sanctuary for avid SM fans
Thanks for your posts, Impz. Always a pleasure!
About the time period: In the novel it is said that the period is not short, but it’s not long either. So no definite number, but we know they can’t dilly-dally forever.
New novel comes out in May. YAY! Until then, we can always hope for OVAs, right? There ARE Gaiden novels, after all.
*feverishly prays for a Gaiden 3 OVA* Hey, don’t you want to see the story of how Reishin married his wife, Yuri-hime? You know you do.
L-chan added these pithy words on Mar 09 08 at 11:04 amyes i agree, Thanks a million Impz for blogging such a heart warming anime of true romance, friendship, family and adventure. I am soo happy that it is still possible for Shuurei and Ryuuki to be together because the previous seasons were totally on to them and how its like in the high point which iam sure this anime will continue soaring……its gonna be sooo hard to wait for more on another season or OVA to tie up loose ends but with new anime coming up then we can look at other shows till out precious and lovely Saiunkoku Monogatari come back and lets hope very very soon.
Peggy added these pithy words on Mar 09 08 at 11:07 amlmpz, thank you very much for posting such extensive and detailed summaries. So far I have watched till episode 20 of the second season. I even tried watching the raw episodes while reading your summaries! Just to say how much I was desperate but now I’ve resolved to wait for the whole second season to be translated before watching it. I agree with everyone that finally, Ryuuki has the upperhand. I thought his decision to voice a deadline to Shuurei, was simply wonderful! What I like about SaiMono, is the fact that it deals with real issues and with public administration in a way not often thought of. I also liked the fact that not every male character was falling in love with Shuurei. I suppose it was inevitable for Ensei to fall in love with Shuurei. But how thick-headed can Shuurei be not to see all that? And yes, you’re right, your summaries of SaiMono brought a lot of visitors. Thank you very much, once more.
yanoto added these pithy words on Mar 09 08 at 2:51 pm>_>
YYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY!??!~
……….
NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!! X_X
qqhisoka added these pithy words on Mar 09 08 at 4:16 pmWWWWAAAAAHHHHHHH……!!!!! Last episode. The best ending but like most of us thing it screams 3rd season. but i hope they would announce it a little bit faster…… we’ll have to wait a few months…. its gonna be long but make sure you check animenewsnetwork.com. its the place that most likely to post the 3rd season info. well that is for us who can’t read japanese. seriously i think i need to go take some japanese classes in high school… well ne ways, once again a great blog form Impz! but i watched this ep like 12 am this morning and i’ve been think about wat ryuuki said to shuurei about their bet time. nd i’ve been getting hunches tat he only said one word to her. and its the only word that he says to her everytime he says “i love you,” to shuurei. Its the word that means the amount of time he will wait for her. i don’t know if my explaination is enough but i think it sort of gives it away. but can u guys guess the one word?????
I think the word is “FOREVER” and i think that’s a great way to end the series.
Showing the couple of the series.( or maybe at least the couple that the series started out with and i hope for them to be together, but in the end we didn’t see that….)*still crying*
right now i don’t think any of us will be satisfied with this series if they didn’t make another series, several OVAs, or 2-3 movies. but wat do you think should be in the 3rd season. should there be chaos??? something like…. seiran being found out that he was really seien and ryuuki stepping down and marrying shuurei????? haha…that would never happen. and once again i compliment the author for such beautiful men in this series >_
really really thank you so much Impz !!!
I can not imagine if without your wonderful blog
See you all in 3rd season or OVA (hope they will make it asap)
GO..GO.. SEASON 3…!!!
GO..GO..OVA…!!! heeh..heeh…
I can’t believe the end is here! waaahhh!!! This was a really beautiful anime. I haven’t had this much fun since Rurouni Kenshin. I’m really hoping for a season 3. I think that Seiran had the right to show his disapproval to Shuuei. I mean Shuuei did abandon the emperor after receiving the trusted flower. But I think as you said by Shuuei leaving his clan behind and swearing complete loyalty to Ryuuki made up for his earlier disloyalty. So Seiran can feel good about that. Also, I think there was a little “brotherly” rivalry between Seiran and Shuuei as Shuuei often treated Ryuuki as his little brother. Now that Shuuei has sworn his allegiance to Ryuuki Seiran will have to share his beloved little brother with Shuuei. If they do make a season 3, for comic relief, it would be fun to see Seiran and Shuuei fighting over Ryuuki. I think Ryuuki would love the attention from his beloved elder brother… I mean elder brothers lol.
I like the idea of Ensei expressing his feelings for Shuurei. They may never get together but he definitely will give Seiran a hard time over it. lol
So, Ryuuki and Shuurei finally had their heart to heart. Well of course I’m avid Seiran/Shuurei fan, but, if she were to marry another SM character, Ryuuki is the one. I believe his determination to be a good emperor is what Shuurei has been waiting for all along. I don’t think Shuurei is as dense about love as everyone think she is. It’s obvious that Shuurei has feelings for Ryuuki. (There was the scene where she stopped playing the erhu and said “Ryuuki is crying”, then her crying when she thought that something really bad had happened to him) I think if they had married during the time he was slacking off as emperor it would have been a disaster. While Shuurei is very passionate about her job, the people and her country, she often didn’t follow “protocol”. If she were married to Ryuuki and acted the way she did as official, there would have been major uprising. Also, the way things ended up in most of the second season Yuushun was doing all the work. Between Yuushun and Shuurei, Ryuuki would never have worked hard or took his job seriously. So, I think the separation was good as both lead characters got a chance to mature a little more in their roles as official and emperor.
I like how the way the author is slowly building their relationship. Season 3 should bring them closer. By the time they do get together Shuurei would have made a good name for herself among the nobles and clans. Hopefully Ryuuki will have matured enough to where even Reishin will have to accept him as emperor and as a suitable marriage partner for his beloved niece. I hope we can learn more about Shouka/bare-hime.
Impz, thanks again for your summaries and all the hard work. I will definitely visit the site again.
Gypsy-chan added these pithy words on Mar 09 08 at 5:43 pmHi there, Impzie…
Thank you so much for the blog summaries. This is the episode I have been waiting for, and true, although the anime may have made a subtle change on the scene,but it makes things more in line with what they seem to imply that shuurei and ryuuki have that tree as “their” place.
ryuuki has grown so much despite him slacking off earlier. ao did shuuei, and finally seiran giving him his approval, a looooong awaited approval and a looooong awaited break that seem to have been implied because of things that were not animated (hopefully they would in their fillers later on… to those who want to read about it it is in the lily of the valley link posted previously.)
As we all wait for the next and hopefully final season, we are all going to miss this community and I believe I am not alone in saying this.
Personally, I’d be missing this community so much. It has been great discussing stuff with you guys. Thank you, too.
So, it’s not goodbye, but I’m hoping that I’ll see you time and again in the next season ( or series or some place else in the blogosphere )
Thanks again, Impz and more power to you and your team… Oh, and goodluck and thank you to 13sugars and her team in doing subs, too.
ciao, for now.
I agree with Gypsy-chan that as much as we wanted Shuurei and Ryuuki to get married in this season that it was good that they didn’t as both really needed to grow even more and mature before getting together…thanks again to impz and 13sugars + team for all their hard dedicated work
Peggy added these pithy words on Mar 09 08 at 7:25 pmheya impz… am back from the amazon hehehe im so reddddddd was hottttt man.. but yeh seeing brazil was awesomeeeeeeee… anyway i tell ya about it in email. I would like to thank you for this blog.. As you can see, I cant live without your blog hehehehe.. Welp im super fan of Saiunkoku and I know that ure busy. Hopefully another saiunkoku will be made for you to blog. hehe I think you, your gf and I are the same in choosing animes we like. Am happy.. ahh impz im so reddd now.. my bday ish tomorrow, ill be 26 hehe just that am happy and abit sad too.. anyway, ill see ya still okies..!
etineski added these pithy words on Mar 09 08 at 8:32 pmThis episode was a great ending to the second season of a truly remarkable series. I admit that sometimes, I get bored watching this. But episode 39 reminded me of how much I loved SaiunMono. The ending did a good summary of the upcoming plots that will be developed further in the next novel. I do hope there will be a next season after the next few novels are released >_>!
I surely am interested in the Ouki Arc, Yuushun backstory, Hyou Clan, etc etc etc, and of course the Ryuuki-Shuurei relationship. Also, I finally do feel for Jyuusan-Hime. If the king and her do marry, I wouldn’t mind that much anymore~
Oh and Ensei. I totally LOVED the bgm that came in when Tan-Tan pointed out how Ensei likes the little princess, and how Ensei just smiled cooly. The guy is just SO cool. Shouka-papa is the kewlest though. Look at how calm he was when Ryuuren was playing his forbidden flute! Hopefully Shuuei and Shusui end up together ;p And, Kouyuu is adorable as always. <3
Arghh, I really love all the SaiunMono characters xD
So all in all, thanks for the summaries, and great comment after each summary.
hmm, is ryuuki saving the empress position for Shuurei like he wants only her to be in that level
Peggy added these pithy words on Mar 09 08 at 10:11 pmImpz…I just wanted to say a big thank you for blogging this series. I’ve been following the summaries on your blog for a while and this is my first ever entry here. This is one of the best animes I’ve watched in every way…I couldn’t have enjoyed the series as much without your summaries ^_^
can’t believe it has ended =(….
I definitely hope there will be a season 3 and again another Shuurei x Ryuuki ending…with Ryuuki winning the “competition” of course hehe 
Thanks again Impz!
dnite added these pithy words on Mar 10 08 at 5:58 ami love this anime so much…
although i discovered this kinda late…
i had a marathon with regards to this
from season 1 up to the current subbed episodes
and like how obvious my situation is…
i depended on your entries
with regards to the other episodes…
with all this said…
I AM DEEPLY GRATEFUL FOR YOUR
HARD WORK AND KINDNESS…
I KNOW HOW MUCH WORK YOU NEED
TO ACCOMPLISH AND YET
YOU STILL FIND SOME TIME
IN SUPPLYING INFORMATION
THAT WOULD FULFILL OUR
PERSONAL SATISFACTION AND CURIOSITY…
(bows for respect and gratitude)
ARIGATOU!!!
mystique_ghurl added these pithy words on Mar 10 08 at 6:47 amI have no idea if they’ll ever manage to sub the rest of season 2 and with Geneon gone I doubt anyone is going to license Saimono again, so here’s a thank you from my heart for your detailed summaries which leave me with a feel-good open end.
Estara added these pithy words on Mar 10 08 at 6:56 amThank you for your hard work in blogging Saiunkoku Monogatari. i have just recently discovered your blog when I was searching for SaiMono novels / mangas. I’m following the anime episodes at Crunchyroll, yet I go ahead of the story by reading your blogs. I would also like to read the novel so I could get a better understanding of the story. Could you tell me where I can find the novel/manga? I only have chapters 1-8 of the manga. They were all I could find. Thank you!
Patsy added these pithy words on Mar 10 08 at 7:46 amI can’t wait for the third season…argh!! the torture!
Thanks a bunch for blogging them by the way, cause I can’t watch them at my place..
kema added these pithy words on Mar 10 08 at 8:59 amThank you impz!
I have a question.. I just saw the ending of saiunkoku monogatari in RAW, and Impz you know how you said they showed pictures of the characters doing their work well it showed Jyuusan-Hime moving into a room, could it be she’s moving in to the palace? Then it showed ryuuki and shuurei together in the end and shuurei is just wearing her everyday clothes, could it be she didn’t choose to marry ryuuki after all and she remained an official? Please I’m desperate for answers.
ryuurei added these pithy words on Mar 10 08 at 11:32 amHi ryuurei, just read your comment. Jyuusan-hime is definitely moving into the palace. I think she is filling the position that Shusui left behind. Like the head of all the female servants. I remember the episode where Shusui and Jyuusan-hime met. Shusui complained that Shuuei treated all the emperor’s female servants like his personal brothel or harem. She said she had a hard time with the women after he left. So, with Shusui staying behind with the Hyou clan, I believe Jyuusan-hime is taking over the spot. She knows martial arts, like Shusui and is familar with palace protocol. She is perfect for the position. Also, she is there as back-up in case Shuurei turns down the emperor’s marriage proposal. (which after watching this last episode, I can’t see that happening. I think this more matured Ryuuki has made a big impression on Shuurei. Which I think the reason for her accepting his challenge/competition.)
Okay, so I finally saw the last episode. It was really great!! LOL, I couldn’t keep a straight face while watching the staring contest between Ryuuki and Ouki. I liked how Ryuuki didn’t back down. I think Reshin had to acknowledge him a little for that. Speaking of scary eyes, I loved watching Seiran glare at Shuuei as he was getting off the boat. Seemed to be a lot of eye staring in this last episode.
The Ryuuki/Shuurei part was priceless. It really ended the season and anime series beautifully. I loved Ensei’s little group hug, which annoyed Seiran at first. (that was just too funny lol). Also, I watched the ending five times and I didn’t get a since of a season 3 happening. Of course to the avid viewer there are still many unresolved issues with all the plots and subplots weaved into the story. However, the way the anime wrapped up the season everyone seemed to have settled into their new position/new life. I think, depending on the fans or interest shown, they may do an OVA or some kind of special one hour movie. Well thats my thoughts.
Gypsy-chan added these pithy words on Mar 10 08 at 4:34 pmLast episode of the season….damn. Season 3 can’t come soon enough.
Before anything, thanks so much Impz for taking the time to do this. I don’t speak a word of Japanese nor Chinese so your blog is the only thing that I’m looking forward to so I can keep up. At least, I have the subs of the rest of Season 2 to tide me through until the next novel summaries come sometime in May.
After having gone through the summaries, screencaps, etc. etc. for this season, I can’t believe how far the story has gone and how much the characters have developed, especially Ryuuki and Shuurei. This Season Two ending is a perfect complement to the Season One ending. Both episodes clearly underline how their relationship has developed. They have become more serious, more mature, and they both know now that being who they are, their relationship is not a personal matter between them alone. This is more true for Ryuuki. I’m glad he’s finally come to that realization.
Although the episodes hint strongly at a romance between them, I can’t help but say now that a Ryuuki-Jyuusan-hime pairing in the end isn’t so bad. (And I’m saying this despite my being a staunch Ryuuki-Shuurei supporter. ^_^) That will only show that this story takes into account the realities of such a situation. It would tie in neatly with Ryuuki’s epiphany about who and what he is. No matter how much he may love Shuurei and would wish for them to be together, he is still and - by his own decision - will always be the emperor. Because of this, his first great love must always be his country and his people and their welfare should be uppermost in his mind in whatever decision he makes. If making Shuurei his empress would undermine his position and consequently affect the stability of his reign, then letting her go would be a choice that he must make. At this point of his development, I think Ryuuki is ready to do even that. To paraphrase a Shakespearean line, it’s not that he loves her less, but that he loves Saiunkoku more.
I also love the development of Shuuei. The scenes between him and Ryuuki, as he pledged his allegiance to him as his emperor, was very powerful for me. It shows that he now sees Ryuuki as an emperor worth living and dying for. In the same token, I felt that way about Yuushun’s reiteration of his pledge to serve Ryuuki till the end. I’ve always loved the scenes when Ryuuki is being the emperor that he’s supposed to be, and the way his subordinates react when they see that. So I guess that means I can’t wait for the day of reckoning between him and Ou Ki, him and Reishin, and the Ran triplets. If he is able to win those people to his side, he would have a very powerful backing indeed.
Lastly, I must mention Seiran and Ensei. I can’t help but love Seiran’s utter devotion to his little brother and his ruthlessness when it comes to loyalty towards Ryuuki. I really think he would have no second thoughts about killing Shuuei if the latter had totally betrayed Ryuuki’s trust. I do like the respect he finally gained of Shuuei. Then of course, Ensei. I’m not surprised he’s fallen in love with Shuurei. Adding this to the already complex lovelife of Shuurei would make for a very interesting third season.
In the meantime, I really hope they do OVAs of the sidestories and backstories.
Till the next season comes around, see you all again! ^_^
sumomo added these pithy words on Mar 10 08 at 8:33 pmThank you so much Impz for all your hardwork! I will miss your Saiunkoku blogs. And will of course be back should I hear of a season 3 (fingers crossed). I will miss everyone in the comunity and just being able to disscuss this wonderful Anime/Manga with all of you. I really mean that. Gypse-Chan, Keep on hoping that us Serian/Shurrie fans get the end we want. Seamaiden and Kaeboe, It was fun discussing both similar and differnt points of view!
heather added these pithy words on Mar 10 08 at 8:55 pmJust as I suspected…. There will be a season 3…. It wouldn’t be called Saiunkoku Monogatari if there weren’t a lot of season you know? Btw what is he whispering about =.=” Is it come to my room and make “love” with me?
Leonard added these pithy words on Mar 11 08 at 1:46 amKyaaaa! What an ending! Thanks, Impz!
Meh, I was just thinking. What IF? What IF Shuurei loses the bet, but doesn’t want to marry Ryuuki? Would he let her go?
…meh, but of COURSE she wants him. He’s such a darling, and its beyond obvious she loves him too.
Thanks a whole bunch!
Emmelyn Cindy added these pithy words on Mar 11 08 at 8:44 amThank you for all your work on these summaries, Impz. They’re smart, well-written and insightful, and they’ve added so much to my enjoyment of this series. I always looked forward to hearing your thoughts. Again, many thanks!
vesper added these pithy words on Mar 11 08 at 6:55 pmSigh. There had better be a 3rd season. After 78 episodes, you’ll think they’ll have gotten somewhere with Shuueri and Ryuuki… At any rate, am glad I found out what the ending is… annoying as it is that there is no proper conclusion again.
msF added these pithy words on Mar 12 08 at 3:05 amI have a feeling Ryuuki knows he’s already won.
After everything we’ve seen between these two, I think the ending of this story is gonna be really sweet and romantic. I’m sure it will happen under that cherry tree. ^_^
sumomo added these pithy words on Mar 12 08 at 6:29 amyea i really do hope that as well, i don’t mind Jyuusen hime being a wife but i really do want Shuurei to be number one wife cause he loved her for sooo long and has worked very hard to be the emperor that his people can surely depend on
Peggy added these pithy words on Mar 12 08 at 4:18 pmIt really is sad that the series has come to an end but I agree with you that the end was well-done.
I think the Shuuei issue is so like the Ran clan that he is ‘disowned’ yet Ryuuren (the next clan head) is staying at his side in a show of solidarity (sort of) sent from their brothers (the current head). Hmmmm…maybe Shuuei has not really been disowned…he still wears his clan colours.
Ryuuki and Shuurei ended on the best note it could have (other than Shuurei agreeing to marry Ryuuki^^). I still have hope for their relationship and if he does not get Shuurei then Jyuusan-hime is not such a bad 2nd choice…we all like her ^^
I hope this anime goes the way of Kyou Kara Maou in that a few years aftert he second season a few OVAs and a new season gets released - once the story in the novels has been given time to progress.
Thanks Impz for all your summaries ^__________^ and screenshots!!
bootoye added these pithy words on Mar 13 08 at 3:13 amJust wanted to add my heartfelt thanks to Impz for carrying us language-challenged fans through the whole season to the bittersweet end. You were a bright light when we were otherwise in the dark. Arigatou! (See, I even learned something!)
sakujunsghost added these pithy words on Mar 13 08 at 7:33 pmI think what Ryuuki whispered to Shuurei was “Until the cherry blossoms bloom again”
gavyte added these pithy words on Mar 15 08 at 7:41 ami just kinda thought of this scenrio for the 3rd season where shuurei agrees to marry Ryuuki and be empress if he comes back safely from fighting this war…it just form out of nowhere, i miss watchin all of these wonderful characters
Peggy added these pithy words on Mar 15 08 at 10:56 ami support OVA for the true conclusions…the story hasn’t finished yet and needs to be continued,,so,,we just keep waiting =)
oh,i almost forgot to thank you of all the summaries…they are very helpfull for me, if i watch the SM video, i need to read your summaries as the subs too =)
once more…
ARIGATOU GOZAIMASHITA & SAYONARA…
niyabi-chan added these pithy words on Mar 16 08 at 1:57 ami luv de sauinkoku monogatari series bth da frst and secnd,i wish dey could relese de hole episodes of da secon seeson in english subtilte
bott dis one i luv rella good can’t fur da next one (episodes).
ARIGATOU GOZAIMASU
cece added these pithy words on Mar 21 08 at 8:51 pmwhy do they always end it like that….T_T its always a cliff-hanger…
i hope the third season will focus more on the romance between Ryuuki and Shuurei….im sure that they’ll end up together but there will be lots of twist and turn…if they don’t end up, a lot will be heartbroken and also my friend will kill me..(i don’t know but she always let her frustration about SM on me maybe coz i introduced it to her…weird girl…)
btw, thank you Impz for bringing the summary to us…
ive been following your summary since the first season and i got to say that it was all well done…im looking forward to your future work especially on SM..^_^
Thank you very much! i’ve been searching for this coz i don’t understand japanese. I became in love with this anime.. and will be waiting for season three. i hope it will be soon though.. i hope shuurei and ryuuki will end up together (sigh!) in spite of the twists (well, that will most likely spice things up isn’t?)and the doubts about their romance that will arise (hmm.. fingers crossed) Love your reviews.. thanks! (again)
sweetcutie added these pithy words on Mar 27 08 at 12:26 pmwEeE… Im So oVeRwHeLm w/ D eNdInGg..!! RyUuKI My LOve Ur SoO CuTE… …mY head S ScreaMIng FOR d SEASON 3…………………………hHUhUHuhU… i CAn t WAiT..!! But I have NO choiCE.. …heHEheHEe …RyUuKI my LOve Plzz..MARry ME.. hAhaHAhaHA!!.. I hope DERS a RYUUKi In reality ND i WIIL BE d ShuuREi..!!
VeNnIE added these pithy words on Mar 29 08 at 7:22 pmthaNK YOu VERY mUCh!!
w/o U i CAnT undestand the fiNAL episoDe…
HOPE that there a season 3 (fingers crossed)
thank you very much!! for your efforT
arigato gozaimashita!!!!
rhuie added these pithy words on Mar 29 08 at 10:50 pmwhat the hell iz thiz animu?
idiot added these pithy words on Apr 06 08 at 5:32 amhmmmmm…. i miss ryuki and shurei!!!
i’m always making my self updated in the saiunkoku…
hmmm… i wish there will be a season III commin’ sooN…
owwwwwhhh….
i can imagine how romatic the season III wiLL be!!!
owhhh!!! im a bit jealous to shurei!! hehehehe….
and….
i hope the rest of the season II episode w/ its engLish subs come out very sOOn…
haayyy….
im Looking forward to watcH it here in da phiLipppines…
good thing that the animax.. returned the saiunkoki monogatari(coloured cloud palace)..
it heLpS aLot!!im stiLL watching it!!! even though i hve watch it aLready!!!
anyway!! thanks again for your effort!!!
arigato gozaimashita!!!!
rhuie added these pithy words on May 12 08 at 9:16 amshuurei!!if i’m a SM character, i’m so gonna kill her!
it’s like she’s putting a wild goose chase.. does she know that ryuuki can’t wait for her forever?! he also needs to be with someone who would be by his side till the rest of his life!
i’m starting to hate her..if she would still continue her attitude, i’d gladly choose the other girl than her though i admire her fearless behavior..
one thing, if she wants to help the country, she should first support ryuuki other than to follow her own principle..i just hate her.
about ran shogun(general), it’s not his fault he’s not confused. if i was him, it would be a lot harder for me to decide between loyalty and responsibility. what he did was not betrayal. it’s just because of confusion…that’s why seiran has no right to hate him….
that’s it…nice summary by the way..
kesha alcantara added these pithy words on May 26 08 at 9:01 pmI dropped in by chance, to find these nice blogs on SaiMono season 2! Thanks for blogging all these, Impz-san!
Yami-No-Yue added these pithy words on May 30 08 at 9:09 amHi hi! I’ve been following the blog of yours for a while now, and i’m grateful for your summary =D
Anyways.. my thoughts on the episode
hmmm.. i was very surprise to say the least on how the story line developed so much, in a good way =P. Anywyas, i really cant get the concept of Ryuuki and Jyuusan hime being together, and i wish they never will end up together. I don’t know why, but for some reason she really bugs the crap out of me, and therefore I hate her =D. I might be acting immature for hating her, but i honestly do abhor her *laughs*. I’m gonna be a b*tch and say i wish she died and hope she will die.
The Ensei part was cute! Haha and i hope Shuuei and Shusui WON’T end up together or else i’ll go and scream =D.
The end. LOL.
Anywyas, hope i’ll be hearing from you again when Season 3 is up.
Much thanks for your hard work <3
~MEi
Mei added these pithy words on Jun 11 08 at 1:39 pmWhat do you guys think if Seiran will fall for Jyuusan-hime? lolz I think they’re a cool pair too!
I’ve just discovered SaiMono two-three-four weeks ago. And I fell for it right away. lolz
Thankz Impz for blogging about SaiMono from the very start and up to the very last episode.
Thank you so so much!
Arigatougozaimasu!
We look forward to more of your blogging on SaiMono 3 if ever there will be in the future!
I sure do hope there will be a third season!
Thankz again.
Thankiez!
okiez okiez
latez
yza added these pithy words on Jun 13 08 at 6:16 pmA friend told me about the title of this anime.
I was searching for M.H. - Seiran’s Seiyuu - video clips on youtube. I’m so obssessed on him lolz
Then I saw this clip. It was the SaiMono Special.
Asked my friend if she knows what anime it was. We were chatting at that time.
She told me it’s Saiunkoku Monogatari.
And that’s when the SM craziness started. lolz
just wanna share it with everyone. lolz
okiez
latez
Thankiez Impz for blogging about SM! Thank you so much!
ja mata!
yza added these pithy words on Jun 13 08 at 6:27 pmI definitely believe this series is amazing in that it deals with politics, love, friendships and responsibility in a light-hearted but not necessarily comical way, nothing hentai about it and if there is, is dealt with straight-forwardly. So far I’ve yet to encounter a series like it. I’m still waiting on the season 2 episode 33-39 subs, but i really think the creators left a lot of room in the story to add another two or three more seasons to it, leaving the ending refreshingly hanging till the end, not so much giving you reason to obsess about the next season, but leaving you hoping and imagining what would come next or who would end up with whom.
also, thank you to the people who give subtitles to anime series for people like me who’re too busy or not have enough brain cells left to learn proper Japanese. thank you for all your hard work
lai dela rosa added these pithy words on Jul 03 08 at 11:39 amI’m really surprised by it’s end, its like its hanging on the air. I really love this anime and I have been too much excited following the events of the seroes. Is there reall a possibility that there will be a season three? I love this anime, the characters and the plot itself.
midnyt_aare added these pithy words on Jul 06 08 at 7:34 amI just discovered today this website and I cant help myself to read first the last episode of season 2. I downloaded the first season and watched some of it last night - that’s why I somehow feel tired here in work. This is my first visit in this blog and I just google this anime. I wish there will be a 3rd season because I’m still wishing for Shuurei and Ryuuki to end together. Thank you very much for blogging this anime.
Amethyst added these pithy words on Jul 08 08 at 8:41 pmi love Saiunkoku. Love the characters. They impact me deeply. Is there a 3rd season? can someone tell me with some certainty? I really want another season, and yes, i want those two: Ryuki and Shuurei together.
Faith added these pithy words on Jul 11 08 at 10:39 amhey there limpz.thank you so much for blogging this anime!!i really appreciate it.in indonesia, the anime only out until ep 16, n i even save your summary, hehe, i don’t have time to read it during online, so i put it in my hp. i’m new here anw. i’ve got certain questions, actually which episode that implies shuurei will be immortal?has seiran EVER kiss shuurei? sorry, for my comment, i think shuurei just accept to be kissed by every guy. she didn’t refuse it, she just stared seriously.. and i think shuureiXensei is a good pairing, since ensei is the one that always get that tight hug from shuurei..hehe..but shuurei just become serious when she is around ryuuki..but i think shuurei would end up between ryuuki or seiran, because these two guys (you could say) the hottest of the other guys and both of them are siblings..and i really thank you for the summaries!!!
clarzlee added these pithy words on Jul 12 08 at 9:00 amWow another season to go…but hey its worth it^^ Ryuuki and Shuurei have to end up together, I mean she accepted the challenge so im looking forward to it. Its been exciting so far and thnx for the blogs they have really helped!Til the next!
Claricandyxd added these pithy words on Aug 06 08 at 5:56 pmWow, I can’t believe that’s the ending and another season is coming!! It was long enough as it is already. As long as we do not know the result of Ryuuki and Shuurei, there will always be another episode. I simply don’t like the fact that every guy likes/wants her and she is only interested in politics. She’s spoiled! All the men are always protecting her and she is always doing what she pleases. She doesn’t want to be with Ryuuki, but she wants to use him?? At this point in the story I hope Ryuuki marries Jyuusan Hime and get on with his life. That girl is playing games and stringing him along. If she really wanted to make a difference and help her people why not become Queen and help them that way? A strong Queen can help support her King and even make a difference in her country and their peoples lives!!
Wendy added these pithy words on Aug 09 08 at 8:40 pm