L2R (Front): Seiran, Shuurei, Ryuuki
This week lets travel to the past in one of the early days in China. This anime similar to stories unfolded in China, where a palace' life is nothing but power, betrayal and romance.
Storyline:
SAIUNKOKU, a country very much like medieval China, is ruled by eight noble families: the Ran (Blue), Kou (Red), Heki (Green), Ko (Yellow), Haku (White), Koku (Black), Sa (Brown) and Shi (Purple), each named after a colour representing its territory. Reigning above them all is the Emperor of Saiunkoku, a member of Shi, the royal family of Saiunkoku.
Although Kou Shuurei belongs to the Kou (Red) family, she lives an impoverished life. She can’t even afford to have a decent meal, let alone fix the family’s sprawling but crumbling property. So she is forced to take on various jobs, such as teaching and sewing, to make ends meet.
But Shuurei’s real dream is to take the Imperial Examination and become a government official in order to serve the people. Unfortunately, her dream is a futile one because girls are forbidden to take the examination.
Meanwhile, the three grand officials of the palace are worried about the emperor, Shi Ryuuki, because of his lack of interest in the affairs of the state. Grand Advisor Shou devises a plan to give Ryuuki a consort who will teach him the responsibilities of a ruler, and decides that Shuurei is the best person for the job – she is of noble descent, yet lacks influence in the government and political scene.
Shuurei promptly accepts Shou’s offer. After all, there’s a huge reward if she agrees, and she doesn’t have to “worry” about the emperor falling in love with her because he is said to be a homosexual! Plus, this is a rare opportunity for her to help her country.
Therefore, she enters the palace as the emperor’s consort with her loyal follower and bodyguard Shi Seiran by her side.
Eventually, Shuurei’s outstanding personality, shaped by her relatively humble past and daily hard work, manages to catch the attention of not only the emperor, but many high-ranking government officials as well. Thus begins her quest to change Saiunkoku for the better.
The anime, which is adapted from a novel series by Yukino Sai, has political intrigue, romance and drama. It starts slow but gathers momentum as various aspects of Saiunkoku’s government and complicated political ties are revealed. At the centre of it all is the earnest Shuurei, who honestly wants to improve a country devastated by a civil war not long ago.
Saiunkoku Monogatari (Colourcloud Palace) demonstrates how a person, with talent and dedication, can do much to change the world.
While the main character is undoubtedly Shuurei, the other characters too do steal the show, especially the bishonen (pretty boys) among them! The happy-go-lucky Emperor Shi Ryuuki, for one, will wow many a fangirl.
Nevertheless, Saiunkoku has many qualities that will appeal to both genders. It may seem like a shojo (girls) anime at first glance. But it’s really geared towards the seinen (young adult) market with its intriguing mix of political drama and romance besides featuring an extremely large cast of characters.
The characters are all interesting; Shuurei is an ever-likeable heroine, Ryuuki is more than the spoilt emperor he appears to be and Shi Seiran has quite a background! These and the other personalities of Saiunkoku’s government will keep you fascinated with their mysterious nature and motives.
The story of Saiunkoku Monogatari is compelling, and is boosted by good production values, talented seiyuu and a really good soundtrack.
Medias
Opening theme: Hajimari no Kaze by Ayaka Hirahara
Closing theme: Saikou no Kataomoi by Tainaka Sachi
My End Verdict?
A gem!
Rating: 5/5 =)
will there be a 2nd season ? if there is when will it air?
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