Ep 8. Brief Parting

Miaka and Tamahome are on their way to the palace of Kutou to try and find more information on how they can summon the god Suzaku. While on their journey, Tamahome expresses his distaste for Miaka's friendship with Hotohori, the Emperor of Konan. Miaka, however, defends her relationship with Hotohori, stating that their friendship is important and that he has always been a good friend to her.

As they continue to travel, Tamahome and Miaka come across a group of villagers who are protesting against the Kutou government. The villagers are upset because they are being forced to pay unfair taxes and are being treated poorly by the rulers of Kutou. Miaka and Tamahome are sympathetic to their cause, but they know they have to continue on to the palace.

When they arrive at the palace, they are greeted by Nakago, the leader of the Suzaku Seven of Kutou. Nakago informs them that the priestesses of Suzaku are not welcome in Kutou and that they must turn back. Miaka argues with Nakago, but he tells her that it is not safe for her to be in Kutou and that he will not allow her to summon Suzaku.

Frustrated and saddened, Miaka and Tamahome leave the palace and continue their journey. As they travel, Tamahome tells Miaka about his past and how he became a member of the Suzaku Seven. He reveals that he was once a bandit and was recruited by Tomo, another member of the group, to join them. Tamahome also confesses his love for Miaka, but she is hesitant to respond.

As they reach a small village, Miaka is overcome with emotion and begins to cry. Tamahome comforts her and the two share a brief moment of intimacy. However, their moment is interrupted when they are attacked by a group of bandits. Tamahome fights off the bandits and saves Miaka, but they are forced to part ways when Tamahome is injured in the battle.

As Miaka continues on her journey, she is overcome with guilt for leaving Tamahome behind. She realizes that she has grown to love him and that she cannot continue on without him. She decides to turn back and find Tamahome, even though it means risking her life.

The episode ends with Miaka arriving at the location where Tamahome was injured. She is relieved to find him alive, but he is still unconscious. Miaka vows to take care of Tamahome and nurse him back to health, knowing that their journey to summon the god Suzaku is far from over.

Overall, "Brief Parting" is a moving episode that explores the relationship between Miaka and Tamahome. The episode also delves into the political unrest in Kutou and the struggles of its citizens. The emotional moments between Miaka and Tamahome are particularly poignant, and viewers will be left eagerly anticipating the next installment of the series.