Summary
Known as General Saku of Kouki Province, his true name is Sou, though he is commonly referred to as Gyousou. He first appears when Taiki and Sanshi observe candidates ascending a mountain trail. Arriving to offer incense, Gyousou startles Taiki, forcing him to halt the ceremony. He is next seen violently beating Goson for causing a disturbance on Mt. Hou. Despite his polite demeanor and efforts to soothe Taiki, Gyousou projects a warrior’s violent aura. Risai attributes Taiki’s fear to Gyousou’s overwhelming ambition, noting that she would also fear him if he were her enemy. Others consider his hardness essential for a kingdom. As Taiki grows more comfortable with him, the two go youma hunting. During a rest stop, Gyousou asks why Taiki fears him, seeking to understand his own shortcomings despite believing he is fit to be king. He wonders if Taiki is repelled by his scent of blood. Taiki compares him to fire: attractive yet dangerous. Satisfied, Gyousou assures Taiki he will find a worthy leader. Gyousou’s fatal flaw is his pride. When not chosen as king, he resigns as a Sen-nin and general, claiming it is good medicine, though his hasty departure with youma hunters resembles a shameful retreat. This ego and callousness contrast sharply with Taiki’s gentle innocence, creating a striking dynamic. Upon Taiki’s eventual selection, Gyousou’s arrogance diminishes. He renames Taiki to Kouri, a high mountain peak where the dead are said to walk, a renaming that signifies affection. He also calls Keiki to Tai to alleviate Taiki’s depression, helping to clear the young kirin’s conscience. Balancing power with compassion, Gyousou proves to be a potential good king, though his ultimate fate remains unknown.
