In 1166, Kiyomori becomes the first samurai who reaches the position of a Major Counselor at the Imperial Court. Although some aristocrats reacted sharply against Kiyomori's unprecedented promotion, Kiyomori continues to extend power with the backing of Motozane, a Regent and son-in-law of Kiyomori. Meanwhile in Izu, Yoritomo becomes emotionally involved with Princess Yae, the daughter of Ito Sukechika from a local powerful family who is placed to keep Yoritomo under surveillance, while Sukechika is away for the sake of serving under Kiyomori in Kyoto.
