Nihon Review's Kaikyaku writes: "What is leadership? It’s a question that has been tackled in countless books, courses and studies. There is no clear-cut answer. It’s not even the same for every person. Ask any leader — it’s hard. Youko knows this even before she ever meets Keiki. She a compromiser, an appeaser who doesn’t want to stand out. As president of her class, she just wants everyone to get along. But as it has been said, you cannot lead others until you can first lead yourself. This is especially true for Youko, who soon realizes that in order to survive almost completely alone in an unfamiliar world, she must become stronger. Her journey is an incredible one, blended with rich politics and a cast of wonderful characters in a fascinating world." (Anime, Twelve Kingdoms) 9/10