Anime
The story, which takes place in the fictional medieval empire of Saiunkoku, follows the adventures of Shurei Ko, a girl from a noble family that has fallen on hard times. Her father works as a librarian in the Imperial palace, a post which offers prestige and respect, but little compensation. Shūrei teaches in a temple school and works odd jobs to make a living, but her dream is to pass the imperial examinations and be in government, a path forbidden to women. Shūrei's plans come to an abrupt halt when the Emperor's Grand Advisor makes a startling offer, which is joining the imperial household for six months as the young Emperor's "woman" and teach the Emperor to be a responsible ruler. If she succeeds, the financial reward will be great.