Lonely Castle in the Mirror

Shy Kokoro Anzai finds her world dramatically altered when her bedroom mirror begins to glow, revealing a portal to a fantastical castle. Inside, she meets six other middle school students, all strangers, brought together by a mysterious girl in a wolf mask. They're given a quest: find a hidden key within the castle, and one wish will be granted. But there's a catch — they can only enter during school hours, and those who remain past midnight will be devoured. As the seven navigate the castle's whimsical halls and their own personal struggles, a delicate camaraderie begins to form. Each student carries their own burdens, and the castle offers a strange refuge from the pressures of the outside world. This enchanting and poignant tale explores themes of friendship, self-discovery, and the courage it takes to confront one's fears, all while a quiet mystery unfolds at its heart.

✦ AI-drafted summary