Re-reading the series, I have to say Hanakage looks and behaves a lot like this short-lived character from way back: https://mangadex.org/chapter/574342/7
@dustonglass
That's true on one hand, but on the other, it may be necessary to have a brilliant commander at court at all times to counter any potentially rebellious Great Generals, given the immense military power they command at will, especially with guys like Kanki and Ousen.
@ToxicPilgrim
Akira/Satou's boss said that about Akira, but he never mentioned Youko's role in it. He calls Akira's skills "analog and deprecated", but Youko's skills seem like they would stay valuable. And how can Fable's boss know how well Akira is adapting and changing if he doesn't have a...
I keep wondering what Youko's real role in this is. Is she being judged like Fable, or is she the one observing his ability to blend into society? Is she perhaps even the one who will be told to pull the trigger in case Fable fails this test?