Appearance in Anime

Shi Seiran is a highly skilled fighter and swordsman, known for his calm and composed demeanor. Despite his seemingly amicable and easygoing nature, he can be ruthless toward those who threaten his loved ones, particularly Shuurei. Having known her since her childhood, Seiran has always been deeply protective of her, yet he prefers to support her from the shadows, allowing her to pursue her own ambitions without interference.

Due to his years of living in poverty, Seiran has developed a frugal and mercantilist mindset, much like Shuurei. He is keenly aware of financial matters and does not miss an opportunity to make others cover expenses or extract payments in exchange for favors. His resourcefulness is particularly evident in his dealings with Ran Shuuei, from whom he repeatedly extorts a generous salary in exchange for assistance. Additionally, he often makes Shuuei pay for ingredients so that he can enjoy Shuurei’s home-cooked meals.

Upon meeting the wealthy Shin Suou, Seiran immediately saw him as another financial opportunity, humorously designating him as “wallet #2,” with Ran Shuuei being the first. This pragmatic and lightheartedly opportunistic side of Seiran contrasts with his otherwise serious and protective nature, adding depth to his character.

Shi Seiran, formerly Shi Seien, bears a striking resemblance to his father, sharing the strong features and regal presence of the former emperor. He is considered an extremely handsome man, with sharp facial features and an elegant yet imposing aura.

During his youth, Seien was known for having a cold and intense gaze, much like his father. However, after his exile and subsequent life as a bandit, he underwent a noticeable transformation, adopting a more composed and reserved demeanor. To fully sever ties with his noble lineage, he cut his hair short, as long hair was a symbol of nobility in Saiunkoku.

Though he claims to be 21 years old, Seiran is actually 26 years old at the start of the series, further emphasizing the mystery surrounding his past and true identity.

As a prince, Seiran then known as Seien was the most talented among the imperial brothers and was widely considered the strongest candidate to ascend the throne. However, his maternal relatives conspired to install him as emperor through political manipulation. Their plot ultimately failed, and as a result, Seien was exiled from the royal court alongside his mother, Lady Suzuran. While in exile, assassins sent by rival concubines—murdered his mother, leaving Seien completely alone in the distant Sa Province.

To survive, Seien was forced to join a notorious group of bandits called Satsujinzoku (“Murderous Blades”), where he earned the fearsome moniker “The Little Whirlwind”. Among the bandits, he encountered Ro Ensei, and over time, the two formed a strong bond. Together, they orchestrated the destruction of the group from within, dismantling its operations.

Following this, a chance encounter with Kou Shouka, Kou Shoukun, and young Kou Shuurei led to a new chapter in Seien’s life. The Kou family took him in, offering him a new name, “Seiran” (Silent Orchid), and the surname “Shi”, a homophone for the imperial family’s name, though written with different kanji. Seiran fully embraced this new identity, choosing never to discuss his past. However, certain individuals eventually suspected the truth about his origins.

For thirteen years, Seiran devoted himself to repaying the kindness of the Kou family, working as a protector, repairing their home, and taking on small jobs to support them financially. He swore his loyalty to the family that saved him and remained a constant guardian to Shuurei. When Ryuuki discovered Seiran’s true identity, Seiran simply stated that his only wish was for Ryuuki to become a true emperor, and that alone would bring him happiness.

When Shuurei entered the palace as an official, Seiran followed, serving as the emperor’s personal guard. In addition to his combat skills, he proved to be a sharp strategist, far more perceptive than Ryuuki when it came to political maneuvering and noble faction intrigues. Thus, he became not only Ryuuki’s bodyguard but also his unofficial advisor, offering insights into court politics and ensuring the emperor’s safety.

When Shuurei was appointed Governor of Sa Province alongside To Eigetsu, Seiran accompanied them on their journey. There, he reunited with Sa Sakujun, his longtime nemesis, the man who had originally forced him into the bandit life. Seiran remained constantly on guard, ensuring Shuurei’s safety, as Sakujun had taken an unsettling interest in her. However, when Shuurei made her second trip to Sa Province, Seiran was unable to accompany her due to his responsibilities as an imperial officer. Instead, he entrusted Ensei with the mission and gave him his sword, Kanshou, as a sign of protection.

As Shuurei’s career shifted from governor to Censorate official, their interactions became less frequent, as both were occupied with their respective duties. When Ryuuki left for Ran Province, Seiran remained behind in the capital to protect Prime Minister Tei Yuushun, ensuring stability in Ryuuki’s absence. Beforehand, he severely reprimanded Ran Shuuei for his attempt to abandon Ryuuki, displaying his unwavering loyalty to the emperor.

Though Seiran has spent years concealing his royal identity, he remains a formidable figure in the imperial court, balancing his duty as a protector, strategist, and warrior while maintaining his quiet, unwavering devotion to those he cherishes.

Archery
Seiran is a skilled archer, capable of precisely controlling the trajectory of his arrows. His expertise allows him to accurately hit his targets and assess battlefield conditions from a distance, making him a valuable combatant in ranged warfare.

Swordsmanship
Seiran is exceptionally talented with a sword, a skill honed during his time as both a prince and a former bandit. His combat prowess is widely recognized, and his younger brother, Ryuuki, entrusted him with the sword Bakuya, a significant symbol of trust and respect. His ability to swiftly and efficiently eliminate threats makes him a formidable opponent in battle.

Poison Detection
Seiran possesses extensive knowledge of poisons and can differentiate between various toxins. His keen senses allow him to detect poison in drinks and food, a skill that has likely saved his life multiple times in the treacherous world of court politics. This expertise suggests a background in survival tactics and medical knowledge, further highlighting his intelligence and adaptability.

Kou Shuurei
The person he protects above all else, Shuurei is like a younger sister to him, and he is fiercely loyal to her well-being. Though he rarely expresses his emotions outright, his deep care for her is evident in his actions.

Kou Shouka
The man who saved him from exile, Shouka is both a mentor and a father figure to Seiran. He repays Shouka’s kindness by serving the Kou family with unwavering devotion.

Shi Ryuuki
His younger brother and the reigning emperor. Though he could challenge Ryuuki for the throne, Seiran chooses to remain in the shadows, believing that Ryuuki is the rightful ruler. Their relationship is complicated but filled with unspoken understanding.

Imperial Court Officials
Though many in the palace do not know his true identity, those who do respect and fear him, as he possesses both the lineage and strength to change the kingdom’s fate.