Wise old Enho teaches Youko about the basics of ruling the kingdom. Shoukei is caught and imprisoned for stealing from Queen Kyou. Asano proves himself less than perfectly sane.
Show: The Twelve Kingdoms
Nakajima Youko is your average somewhat timid high school student. One day, a strange man named Keiki appears before her, swearing allegiance. Before she could properly register what was happening, demon-like creatures attack Youko and her friends, after which they are pulled into a different world. A world unlike what she has ever known. Separated from Keiki, Youko and her friends must do whatever they can if they wish to survive in this new world.
A Great Distance in the Wind, the Sky at Dawn – Chapter Six
As Youko travels through Kei, learning the realities of the kingdom, Shoukei escapes Kyou, intent on taking the Queen of Kei's place and regaining her own kingdom. Asano sneaks onto the ship carrying Suzu to Kei.
A Great Distance in the Wind, the Sky at Dawn – Chapter Five
Shoukei is forced to work as a slave in Kyou. Suzu sets out for Kei, meeting up with the performing group that took in Youko when she first arrived, and meets Asano, who appears to have suffered some sort of dangerous mental breakdown.
A Great Distance in the Wind, the Sky at Dawn – Chapter Four
Suzu escapes to Sai, and is made welcome. For her own protection, Shoukei is exiled to Kyou. Youko takes control – but her decisions may not be the best or wisest.