The Story of Saiunkoku

📖 SYNOPSIS

The Story of Saiunkoku tells the journey of Shuurei Kou, a bright and compassionate young woman born into a once-noble family now struggling with poverty. Despite her dream of becoming a government official to serve her country, societal restrictions bar women from holding such positions. Shuurei helps support her family through various jobs while her father works modestly at the royal archives. One day, her life changes when the imperial court offers her an unusual proposition: to act as a consort and mentor to the young emperor Ryuuki Shi—rumored to be irresponsible and more interested in men than politics. Accepting the job for the sake of her family’s well-being, Shuurei moves into the palace, accompanied by her loyal companion Seiran Shi, who now serves as Ryuuki’s bodyguard. Inside the imperial court, Shuurei must navigate political intrigue, challenge centuries-old customs, and push Ryuuki to embrace his duty as a leader. As she strives to reform both the emperor and the system itself, Shuurei proves that intelligence, empathy, and resilience can shape a better future—even from the shadows of power.