A must read for fantasy/romance manga fans This story follows the theme of most fantasy manga in that a young schoolgirl (Noriko) gets transported to a mysterious new world where she is to play a crucial role. I got this book based on a recommendation and fell in love with the two main characters. One thing that I really liked about this manga that deviates from a lot of others is that the main character doesn't speak or understand the language of anyone in the world she is transported to and must learn it. At last! A semblance of reality! You are still aware of what is happening, but it is understandably bewildering for the heroine.
After being transported there she is met by a young man (Izark) who was waiting there for her, and she is (unbeknownst to her) being sought out by all the world's leaders as well. The story follows many dangers as they are travelling through the lands and we eventually start learning the dark secret that led Izark to be waiting for Noriko in the first place. As they travel together, the relationship between the two strengthens and develops, and Noriko begins to learn about the prophecy of her arrival and what it says that she is supposed to bring to pass.
Unlike many female characters in this genre, Noriko doesn't come across as vacuous, but rather an endearing and devoted companion. Izark's background involves a complex mesh of contradictions, but one that invariably portrays a kind and good person. While other characters come and go in this series, the book revolves around the relationship of these two.
While I would recommend this story to any girl, I am aware that some guys don't enjoy this story to as great an extent, because the underlying theme does revolve around the relationship of the main characters. This story doesn't really have many comedic elements, it's much more action/romance/fantasy saturated, but if you like those kinds of stories this is the series for you!
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