Saiunkoku Monogatari  

The Story of Saiunkoku, 彩雲国物語

In Saiunkoku, a fictional medieval empire, we follow the journey of Shuurei Kou, a descendant from a once-noble family now struggling financially. Her father works as librarian in the Imperial palace, while she teaches at a temple school and does odd jobs to make ends meet. Despite her dreams of passing imperial exams and taking up government positions, women are forbidden from such paths. However, Shuureis plans take an unexpected turn when the Emperor's Grand Advisor offers her a six-month position as consort to the young Emperor, with the promise of significant financial rewards if she successfully teaches him responsible rule. The narrative explores Shuurei's relationships with the Emperor and other court members, the intricacies of imperial politics, and her determination to improve herself and her nation.

Saiunkoku Monogatari was published in English as The Story of Saiunkoku by VIZ Media under the Shojo Beat imprint from November 2, 2010 to April 2, 2013.