The Elusive Samurai Episode 4: Sadamune Appears!

Marianna saves the Queen from an assassin, kicking a table to deflect arrows with brutal efficiency. The Queen, rather than being frightened, is captivated by Miri's "cool" demeanor, a peculiar reaction from royalty. Amidst the ensuing chaos and security scramble, Miri's immediate concern is not the attack itself, but her ruined macarons. This practical complaint underscores her grounded nature, even as maids fret and Raymond rushes in, frantic to secure her from further danger.

Lost in the labyrinthine castle gardens, Miri encounters Reneo, Prince Leunard's notorious cousin. Reneo, a self-proclaimed "enemy of women," flirts shamelessly, praising her earlier heroics and getting uncomfortably close. Miri remains unimpressed, seeing through his superficial charm. Just as the encounter grows tiresome, Raymond arrives, placing himself protectively between them and warning Reneo against further harassment. Reneo, ever the rogue, laughs off the threat before winking at Miri and suggesting a future date.

Miri recounts the arrow attack to Leunard and several royal knights, dramatically reenacting her moves, much to Leunard’s fond amusement. The Knight Captain praises her extraordinary reflexes, suggesting her skills are remarkable for any noble, let alone a woman. Though the assassin escaped, the discussion affirms Miri's vital role in the palace's defense. Leunard, visibly proud, dismisses the guards, seeking a private word with his fiancée.

Alone, Leunard kneels before Miri, taking her hands and expressing his profound gratitude for her protection of his mother. He checks for injuries, his eyes full of affection and relief, causing Miri to blush. Miri downplays her heroics, attributing it to sturdy castle furniture, yet Leunard’s gaze remains steadfast. She then voices a fear that the Queen might secretly despise her aggressive actions, but Leunard gently reassures her, explaining his mother's reserved nature.

As Miri prepares to return to the academy, Leunard expresses deep concern for her safety, fearing another attack on the road. Raymond confirms a dangerous surge in bandit activity on the route to Muro, Miri's homeland. Leunard's face darkens, burdened by the realization that his engagement has placed Miri in direct peril. He instructs Raymond to personally oversee her heightened security, recognizing her safety as a matter of national importance.

Back at the academy, Miri finds solace in practicing her martial arts, executing precise kicks and punches. She reminds herself to stay sharp, anticipating any "uninvited guests." This dedication to physical training offers an escape from the pressures of noble education. Later, during a formal lecture, Miri accidentally vocalizes her combat thoughts, embarrassing herself and bewildering her teacher and classmates.

In an outdoor art class, Miri struggles with artistic inspiration while Rosaria and her circle prepare to mock her. When Miri unveils her drawing, it is a bizarre, abstract piece of dark swirls and aggressive lines that deeply disturbs the other girls. They retreat, feeling unwell, leaving Miri satisfied that her art achieved what force might have. Suddenly, Reneo emerges from the bushes, having spied on her, and begins to praise her "revolutionary" art. Miri, seeing a hint of her younger brother Theo in his playful persistence, manages a warm smile that momentarily disarms his flirting.

During a grueling study session on royal history and etiquette, Miri succumbs to boredom and falls asleep upright. Raymond, her diligent tutor, erupts in exasperation, his shout startling both Miri and nearby birds. He scolds her for her lack of noble focus, highlighting the stark contrast between Miri’s physical, active nature and the sedentary demands of her royal education.

Miri meets Leunard in a private garden for a clandestine training session. Dressed casually, Leunard asks her to demonstrate her techniques, and Miri eagerly launches into her "30-series" forms. She executes a blur of devastating punches and kicks, counting aloud, the force of her movements creating powerful gusts of wind. Leunard watches in awe, profoundly impressed by her skill. Miri then reveals that higher-level "forbidden" techniques exist, known only to her family's head and heir.

A flashback transports us to Miri’s childhood in Muro, where her formidable father trained her rigorously as his successor. In a pivotal memory, young Miri is frozen in fear as a tree falls toward her. Her father intervenes, catching the trunk with his bare hands, then teaches her a profound lesson: their family’s strength exists solely to protect loved ones, never for conquest. This memory shapes Miri's moral compass and her desire to protect Leunard and his family.

Miri reflects on her training, telling Leunard that her efforts are purposeful, aimed at being a "lady" who can also defend her kingdom. Leunard, deeply moved by her selfless heart, expresses his pride. Another flashback shows Miri carrying her infant brother Theo, already a fierce protector. Returning to the present, Leunard promises a future visit to Muro as a married couple, pulling Miri into a tight hug, a tender farewell despite their training sweat.

The episode concludes with a whimsical "Fishing Theater" performance, a chibi-style animation summarizing the themes of duty and self-expression. Following this, Miri is seen waving a final farewell from her carriage as it departs for Muro. Her face is filled with determination and excitement, ready for the emotional reunion with her family. The journey begins, leaving the palace behind as she heads toward her homeland.