Gentokuin is the harem manager of the Konan Imperial Palace in Hotohori's light novel, Suzaku Hi Den. He also appears in OVA 3 during which Houki recounts the events of the light novel. Before he was the harem manager, he was a respected sorcerer and worked as an adviser to Hotohori and Shu Tendo's father, Emperor Kougantei.
Character[]
Gentokuin is a sly man prone to bouts of jealousy and political scheming. His dedication to the dark arts stems from his hopes for riches, status, and merit, as he believes his sorcery is powerful enough to guarantee him all three.
Story[]
Having been demoted by Dowager Empress Motaiko three years prior to the light novel, Gentokuin groveled to the high officials and was able to reinstate his position. His first duty upon returning was to search for eligible women around Konan to recruit into the imperial harem. He is the one who finds You Houki in Seirin Village.
While in the harem, he makes a habit of reading fortunes. One day, he meets with Kinboh and predicts the Emperor will come to her quarters soon. He adds they she will also give birth to a boy, which Kinboh interprets as her securing the rights to the throne. Gentokuin is soon confronted by Nuriko and Houki for making false prophesies. However, the harem manager examines the warrior's palm and alludes to Nuriko's sex or his destiny as a Celestial Warrior. Nuriko slaps him in response. When Gentokuin reads Houki's palm, he prophesizes that she will become Empress. Nuriko instantly denies this prediction and tells the harem manager that he should focus on doing his job, as the Emperor remains uninterested in the harem. The warrior suggests preparing portraits of each member for the Emperor and his advisors to peruse. Gentokuin agrees.
As revenge for slapping him, Gentokuin alters Nuriko's portrait to a horrifically unflattering nude sketch. He also alters Houki's to appear more beautiful than the rest. He is visited by Prime Minister Haku, who scolds him for pushing a favorite. This draws a crowd and, in retaliation, the harem members attack Gentokuin.
When he discovers Shu Tendo, Hotohori's long-lost brother, he possesses him to start a rebellion and assassinate the Emperor. When Tendo hesitates on delivering the killing blow, Gentokuin kills him but is fatally stabbed by Hotohori.
Quotes[]
- "Why are you hesitating? If you won't attack him, then I will strike!"
- —Gentokuin
- "The Beast Gods appears to us in the generation of a child. Born with the mark of Suzaku, but the bearer's eyes will be closed forever without having seen the great Suzaku. Though the beauty of it, my hand will terminate the life of Suzaku King, I will fulfill my own prophecy and close his eyes with one strike."
- —Gentokuin's last words