Juuni Kokuki  

The Twelve Kingdoms, 十二国記

In this realm beyond our own, known as the Twelve Kingdoms, nature's laws are guided by the Way-a moral code set forth by the Mandate of Heaven. This results in kingdoms being devastated by war and famine when an unfit ruler is on the throne. Babies hatch from eggs found on trees, and mythical creatures roam freely throughout the land. When a rift occurs between this world and Japan, Youko Nakajima, a high school student who conformed to societal norms, finds herself in a foreign environment where she must navigate unfamiliar laws and confront the harshness of those around her. To survive with integrity, Youko will need to learn how to make decisions for herself. Juuni Kokuki is a fantastical tale that follows Youko and other individuals as they discover their true selves amidst an unforgiving yet beautiful world.

The first four novels of Juuni Kokuki were published in English as The Twelve Kingdoms by Tokyopop under the Pop Fiction imprint from March 13, 2007 to March 2, 2010.