Online info:
Saiunkoku Monogatari (彩雲国物語; lit. Tale of the Land of Many-Coloured Clouds, often rendered Tale of Saiunkoku) is a series of Japanese novels written by Sai Yukino and illustrated by Kairi Yura.

The anime series, produced by Madhouse Studios, is directed by Jun Shishido. It began airing in April 2006. The series is currently slated to run for 39 episodes.

The story, which takes place in the fictional medieval empire of Saiunkoku, follows the adventures of Shuurei Kou, the princess of a noble family that has fallen on hard times.

Her father serves as librarian in the Imperial palace, a post which offers prestige and respect but little compensation.

Shuurei teaches in the temple school and works odd jobs to make ends meet, but her dream is to pass the imperial examinations and take a post in government.

The story details Shuurei's growing relationships with the Emperor and other members of the court, the intrigues that surround imperial politics, and Shuurei's commitment to better herself and her country.

According to legend, Saiunkoku was once infested by demons who threw the country into turmoil and made the people miserable. A brave young warrior named Sou Gen gathered together the eight Enlightened Sages of Colour and drove away the demons.

Sou Gen forged the nation of Saiunkoku and became its first emperor. After Sou Gen's death, the eight sages disappeared, but according to legend they still exist among the people.


Ruling Family info:
Ran (藍, Ran?, Indigo) — The most powerful clan in Saiunkoku
Kou (Kō?, Crimson) — Known as the second most powerful clan
Heki (Heki?, Green)
Kou (Kō?, Yellow) — Although pronounced the same as the 'Crimson' clan, the kanji means 'yellow'
Haku (Haku, White)
Koku (Koku, Black)
Sa (Sa, Brown) — Known as the least distinguished clan in Saiunkoku
Shi (Shi, Purple) — The family of the Emperor
 

• CHARACTER LIST ON PAGE 2