Ryumon orders Tsune to serve in the rear guard and prepare for the ambush. The Seii army receives the news of a retreat. They understand that the Emperor is a “puppet,” of Tiara and cannot anticipate that he’s capable of thinking for himself. As a result, they incorrectly assume that a feigned retreat is impossible. They decided to pursue Ryumon.
It was disastrous. Kaku Yasuaki’s plan worked. 10,000 Seii soldiers, Commander Hibi Jien, Staff officer Tabuchi Hakuyaku, and Staff Officer Konoura Yasuke die. Commander Wajima Ouga is arrested and approves a ceasefire and withdrawal. The truce between Seii and Yamato was officially established. Kaku dies at the age of 32.
We finally get introduced to the country of Buo and it’s leaders. Buo’s first Emperor, Hojo Momokuni is an odd man, who seems rather casual about the war. He recalls the warships and hopes Yamato simply doesn’t “find out.” Buo’s Prime Minister and Strategists Musashikami Juro is so old he needs an interpreter to translate his murmurs.
The massacre and power grabs
Finally, there’s the Direct Descendent of the Imperial Household, Okimi Himehito, who doesn’t say much but does find Aoteru “interesting.” The truce between Yamato and Seii is short lived as Taira assassinated Commander Wajima Ouga. He also had Ryumon arrested and framed for the assassination, Aoteru was arrest for the same crime being sentenced to 34 years, and the Emperor was stripped of his power and redefined as a “symbol.”
Worst, Tiara declared war on Seii and sent a massive army to commit mass slaughter of the people of Seii. Tiara renames “Seii,” Okuwa and is granted the title of “King.” Aoteru vows to seek revenge and take Taira down. This was a dark and shocking end to the season. I expected this level of carnage from Tiara but was still surprised how quickly he moved.
I’m surprised he didn’t have Ryumon and Aoteru executed. What happened to Tsune? This series is just brilliant. It’s not a “fun” series but I think that’s the point. With the time gap I’m hoping to see how Aoteru matures.
