The fallout from an insect plague weighs heavily on I-sei Province. Although Jinshi wants to aid the distressed land, he knows his power doesn't stretch as far in the western capital. What if his efforts only serve to feed the prestige of Gyoku-ou? Ruling on behalf of his absent father, Gyoku-ou keeps his motives to himelf. Though nobles vying for prominence are none of Maomao's concern, trouble always finds her; an ill child and a mystery surrounding Lakan's favorite shogi opponent occupy her time. But unraveling each riddle only creates a new one...