Summary
Gyokuyo serves as the personal handmaiden to Youko, the monarch of Kei. Holding a high rank within the palace staff, she has served the kingdom for a long time and is trusted with ensuring Youko’s well-being in domestic matters. Although she appears to be a woman in middle age, her actual age is unknown and it is implied that she is much older than she seems. Before becoming Youko's maid, Gyokuyo worked in the Ministry of Spring, where she helped administer the kingdom's education system. She was removed from her position late in the reign of Jokaku, when the former ruler banished all women from Kei. While Youko suggests that it would be beneficial for Gyokuyo to return to administration, Gyokuyo states that she is satisfied with her role as a maid.
