Why had she served Councillor Vincent, Dr. Mei, and Moros in turn?
Wasn't it so Ling could stay far away from all these troubles and dangers, and live a peaceful, carefree life?
Now that she knew the road ahead would be drenched in blood, how could Sakura bear to drag Ling into it?
With that in mind, Sakura's resolve grew even firmer—no matter how difficult the road ahead became, she would bear it all, if only to protect Ling's smile and happiness.
The Last Peace
In the Land of the Rising Sun during the Bunsei Era, judging people by their appearance was actually a highly practical way of discerning their identity and social standing.
Anyone with even a little discernment could glean from another person's clothing and adornments whether they were noble or humble, and what position they held in society.
The Land of the Rising Sun during the Bunsei Era was nowhere near as productive as modern society, and stark class divisions existed between people.
Commoners from impoverished families could generally only wrap themselves in coarse linen garments, plain and unadorned.
Meanwhile, wealthy merchants and prominent nobles born into rich families could easily wear gorgeous fabrics such as silk and satin, displaying their noble status.
Under such circumstances, people's reactions upon seeing Sakura became easy to understand.
At this moment, Sakura wore an extravagantly luxurious long blue kimono, dazzlingly radiant.
Every inch of the kimono's fabric was as delicate as silk, light and flowing, as though even a passing breeze could set the entire hem dancing. It gave off a faint, enchanting luster, fully displaying its wearer's extraordinary status while retaining the uniquely soft and gentle charm of a woman.
Exquisite patterns were embroidered across the garment, with silver and gold threads cleverly interwoven into delicate cherry blossom motifs.