From Far Away: Vol. 6

by Kyoko Hikawa

Synopsis
Transported into a fantastical world of high adventure, a confused and frightened teenager discovers she holds a prophetic power that will awaken a new epoch of staggering uncertainty.

But even with such infinite power, Noriko still relies on the help of her faithful companion, a wandering swordsman named, Izark to protect her. There are dangers around every corner and Noriko needs all the help she can get.

Together for only a short time, Noriko and Izark are beginning to develop romantic feelings for one another. But now, before the spark of passion catches fire, another comrade-in-arms confesses his love for the young schoolgirl. Even in the most dire of situations, love can blossom... twice!

Review
So, after the last volume's big confession, this volume is a bit of a let down. Noriko begins to feel embarrassed about what she said, which I thought was annoying, but then I realized that Izark never gave her an answer or any kind of response to her confession. That would make anyone embarrassed. Now the questions is why didn't Izark give a response? We find out the reason why, later in the book, it's basically because he feels torn in two different directions -- one, she's supposed to make him become the sky demon, which he wants to avoid, and two, he's become attached to her, and doesn't want to leave her. I really appreciate that these characters behave in logical ways. Nothing here feels prolonged or drawn out for the sake of making the story longer, and the characters have believable emotions, reactions and motivations. I really applaud the author for doing such an excellent job telling her story.

Of course, a lot more is going on here, people are still after Izark and Noriko. I wonder when they'll have to stop being on the defensive and go for the offensive. One interesting development, is that one of the seer characters has mentioned that she didn't think the future that she sees is something that must happen. She thinks the future can be changed, which seemed to resonate strongly with Izark. It seems that he thinks now he can change the future, I hope that he can.

Final thought: Great series, I have to read more!