King En tells Rakushun and Yoko a story from his first years as king.  Shouryuu is twenty years into his reign when his informants tell him about a rebellion brewing in Gen province by Atsuyu.  Atsuyu usurped control of the province from his father.  Gen has been prospering but the apparent lack of leadership from the king has caused Atsuyu to take more drastic measures, especially now that the flood season is upon them.  The taiho Rokuta is taken prisoner to be held as a hostage in their bargaining.  He is taken by a young man that Rokuta had met years ago who was raised by youma named Kouya.  He is imprisoned with Lady Ribi, a minister appointed there by Shouryuu to keep an eye on things.