There is no way that I can discuss this volume without giving spoilers, so BE WARNED, SPOILERS AHEAD!!

This is certainly my favorite volume thus far. The travelers have left Piffle world and have arrived at a land where magic is reveared and taught. Much to Syorian's delight they discover an enourmous national library which contains not only a multitude of books on the magical craft, but also on history. When Kurogane pulls out a volume and complains that it contains no words Syorian takes a look and winds up in the world of Kurogane's childhood memories. As soon as Syorian realizes what has happened he tries to remove himself from his companion's private thoughts, but is unable to. The result is heartbreaking and when it is over you know that Syorian will never again be able to look at Kurogane the same way again.

Although Fai has always been my favorite character, Kurogane has certainly been building up as an equal for me in this regard. Mostly because his personality reminds me so very much of my husband's (just don't tell him I said that! LOL) Discovering what happened to Kurogane's parents and how Tomoya saved the young man only to have to send him away certainly makes this the most emotional manga I've yet read. Along with all that it has the unusual aspect of almost being a self contained volume, which hasn't happened often. I would almost say you could read this without having a full knowledge of the series background, but then it wouldn't have the emotional impact. ( )