While visiting the National Library, Miaka Yuuki and Yui Hongo discover a peculiar ancient book that emits a red glow, pulling them into its unknown world. Once there, they face hostile slave traders and narrowly escape thanks to Tamahome—a powerful young man with a Chinese character on his forehead. However, shortly after, the red light reappears and carries Yui away. Eager to be reunited with her friend, Miaka seeks Tamahome's help. The situation intensifies when the duo meets the land's emperor, Hotohori, who thinks Miaka is the prophesied priestess of Suzaku, the kingdom's guardian deity. By assembling the god's seven Celestial Warriors, the priestess can summon Suzaku and have every wish fulfilled. Hotohori hopes this will rescue his nation, and because it seems like an appropriate answer to the girl's troubles as well, he persuades her to take on the role. Back at the library, Yui understands she has been returned alone. Powerless to interfere, she watches helplessly as Miaka endures brave trials as the heroine of the enigmatic book.