Really fun, I'm excited to continue! 

I just finally finished collecting the entire series so I’m giving it a re-read. I’m a Tanemura fan but i definitely understand that you need a level of disconnect/disbelief to enjoy some of her stories. I have my fully read through gentlemen’s alliance since I was a kid so there’s a level of nostalgia here. But yeah like many others the story isn’t as good as i used to
Think it was. Looking back at this volume with a new set of eyes just showed me how kinda all over the place the story is. Especially some of the logic. -spoiler- Haine was clearly 3-4 years old maybe older when she was adopted but for her to be 15 and kusame is 14 yet he wasn’t already born when haine was being adopted just threw me off so bad. Also yes I didn’t like the queer subplot either especially didn’t like how Shizumasu drops Maguri to go out with Haine. If it’s all a lie then it doesn’t matter who his “lover” is. I know it’s a 2000s shojo but I can still judge it. I’m gonna keep my volumes I’ve worked hard to collect it and it holds value to me. I’m just here to enjoy the ride but with more critical eyes. 

i really liked this series as a kid, i think because i hadn’t practiced much critical thinking yet lol, i just liked the pretty drawings. the drawings are pretty but the story is confusing and not very interesting. i don’t see much of a reason for haine to like the emperor. the queer subplot was disappointing, used for shock and comedy and not much else, which is unfortunately unsurprising for a book written at this time. the creepy predator school nurse was NOT okay, who allowed that into the final draft? the only cute part is haine and ushio. i have the full set of this manga and i’m genuinely considering selling it after rereading this as an adult LOL.