Saiunkoku Monogatari Season 1 Episode 8 Wanting To Borrow A Cat's Paws

Shurei is still in the Imperial Palace working as the temporary librarian. Although she enjoys reading, she finds that there are many political debates that take place around her. The emperor, Ryuuki, uses her as a shield to avoid these meetings. One day Prince Seien arrives and is noticed by Minister Ko, who declares the young prince a traitor. Shurei tries to convince Minister Ko to give Seien a fair trial but is unsuccessful.

Meanwhile, the emperor asks Shurei to teach him how to read without any mistakes in the letter. Shurei agrees but has her hands full with the prince's case and her studies. One night she falls asleep on her desk and ends up dreaming about a cat. In the dream, the cat tells her that he will lend her his paws so she can finish her work.

When Shurei wakes, she is surprised to find cat paw prints and her work completed. She realizes that it was not a dream and the cat lent her its paws. Shurei goes in search of the cat who helps her again in the library, but she notices that the cat is fading in and out of existence. The spirit of the cat is sent to teach Shurei important life lessons, but Shurei is unaware that she is communicating with a spirit from another world.

As the story progresses, the prince's situation gets worse. Minister Ko pursues a vendetta against Seien and even attempts to poison him with the aid of an accomplice. The emperor tries to intervene, but it is Shurei who ultimately saves the prince. Shurei uses her skills as a covert agent and catches the poisoner in the act.

Shurei's quick thinking saves the prince, and in doing so, she has shown the emperor her worth. The emperor decides to promote her from temporary librarian to the Royal Consort. Shurei, who is used to being independent, is unsure if she wants the increased responsibility and wonders if the emperor has ulterior motives.

In the end, Shurei turns down the promotion and continues to work independently. The emperor admires her honesty and hard work and promises to support her and the ones she loves. Shurei finds comfort in the emperor's words and sees him in a new light.

Throughout the episode, there is a sense of mystery and intrigue. The cat's appearance adds an element of fantasy to the story, providing a unique perspective on the world of Saiunkoku. The episode perfectly balances the political drama with the otherworldly experience and is a must-watch for fans of the series.