Commander Wajima creates another war council. The begin a new military operation, “winter general operation.” The Yamato army isn’t in a good position. Ryumon is still injured but Kaku also collapsed. Kaku was using a series of drugs, that according to the Doctor is too strong. He says that he believes that Kaku is suffering from multiple diseases and this may have caused respiratory failure.
Doctor Kata has done all he can. They simply must wait. Ryumon is later informed of Hei’s death. He and the other soldiers are shocked. The assume this is a good thing. Without Hei, the should win right? Wrong. According to Ryumon, if Hei was willing to sacrifice himself, then he has someone to carry on his will. With Kaku sick, they should be concerned.
Aoteru has 30 mins
In Yamato, Aoteru Misumi heads into the palace to meet with the Emperor. However, he first runs into Taira’s corrupt guards. They try to arrests him. Suddenly, Taira Denki arrives and stops them. Aoteru humbles himself in front of leader. Taira offer to escort Aoteru inside and kills one of the guards for interfering with Aoteru’s mission. Taira is given 30 minutes to make his case.
Taira makes a case for Ryumon removal. He accuse Ryumon of “allowing” Seii to “occupy” without putting up any resistance. He request that Ryumon lose his authority. Aoteru knows that he needs to prevent his arguments from being overwhelmed by the 57 ministers and Tiara. The ministers argue that Minister Tiara should replace Ryumon. One of Taira followers accuses Aoteru of being corrupt after he asks the Emperor to reconsider give Taira more power.
Aoteru claims that he wasn’t trying to elevate himself but the “law”. He argues that no one can replace Ryumon and they shouldn’t send reinforcements to Fukui. Taira asks him why did he come. Aoteru responds that he wants an “imperial decree of withdrawal.”