From Far Away: Vol. 7

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.

So far, Izark has proven himself to be a courageous and dependable bodyguard. But cruel circumstances beyond his control are now tearing him away from Noriko. Despite his love for the vulnerable teenager, he fears he must abandon her... before he destroys her!

Review
The first part of this volume involves Izark rescuing Noriko from the people who kidnapped her. Except this time, he doesn't hold himself back and we see how terrifying he really can become, as he nearly becomes the sky demon. He seems to forget just about everything when he's in that form, and it's only Noriko's presence that brings him back to normal. However, things still aren't perfect, and the enemy seer, Tazasheena, figures out who Izark and Noriko are, and she runs to tell Lord Rachef about it, but they catch up to her, and she tells them what she knows in order to confirm it. This is the first time that Noriko realizes who she is.

Poor Noriko, it seems she had no idea what was going on. After this knowledge, she figures everything out, including why Izark has been treating her the way he has. Out of empathy, she tries to tell him that she doesn't want to be with him anymore, but he doesn't let her. He finally confesses his feelings for her, and together they decide that they will travel alone, to avoid detection and to keep their friends out of trouble.

This is an important volume, as the characters finally decide for themselves what they want to do. They finally have their feelings out in the open, and are now looking for a way to change their future. I was really glad that the author didn't drag these things out, and that they were resolved quickly. It's refreshing for once. I also can't wait to see what the characters do now.

Final thought: I have to read to the end of the series!