The last few volumes have focused on plot mobility and development, but this volume would be the first where the series finally sinks its teeth into the material in such a way that opens the critical questions. Characters are placed under the political, existential, emotional and psychological spotlight, unleashing a depth that engaged me that is beyond the series' common sway to the high octane page-turners. Had this chapter been just another run-of-the-mill, I think whatever conclusion that Kaiu Shirai had for this series would never attain the conviction it deserves.