"By the way, while yesterday's spike in attention also brought with it more negative reviews, but such discussions will only fuel the fire even more!"
"The people on the top and I agreelet the controversy simmer a bit longer."
"After all, once Akifumi-sensei finds the right time to reveal their identity, everything will be settled!"
Akifumi nodded noncommittally. "I understand."
"Well, I won't say much more. The release just happened, and I'm busy too. See you, Shadow-sensei."
After hanging up, Akifumi's gaze drifted to the screen of his computer.
What appeared there wasn't the overwhelming praise from yesterday, but visible malice.
"I don't deny that 'WorldEnd' Volume 3 is excellent, but I just have one question."
"Take me as an examplehow is it possible to release a new volume every month, maintaining such high quality? Isn't it strange?"
"Looking at the pen name 'Shadow,' it's clear this person is likely fictional or doesn't exist. Otherwise, why choose this particular pen name?"
"I wouldn't be surprised if a company like Fujimi could produce such a great work, but from the perspective of a single author, I doubt anyone could maintain such high-quality work while keeping up with such a fast release pace!"
At first, some people questioned the quality of the work itself, but after the release of the third volume and Akifumi's video, those doubts disappeared.
What replaced them were questions about the identity of the author.
Clearly, the emergence of such a strong work had threatened not only the publishers ahead of Fujimi but also those behind them.
The best result would be to crush this threat in its cradle!
"Well, professionals should handle professional matters."
Akifumi closed the webpage and stopped paying attention to the online noise.
Instead, his thoughts turned to his next project.
No doubt, as December arrived, Akifumi had already finished preparing for both Guilty Crown and WorldEnd manga.
Currently, WorldEnd manga was about to be serialized in a magazine starting next week, and Guilty Crown was being scheduled under the name Masahi.
It's worth mentioning that Shokugeki no Soma had steadily risen in popularity, with its reputation improving week by week in the magazine rankings.
After all, no teenager could resist Erina's captivating art style.
Moreover, the series itself had plenty of fan service.
Just like before, after finishing Guilty Crown and WorldEnd, new ideas for stories began flooding Akifumi mind.
There were still two new works, but this time, there was only one slot left for a serialized story.
So, he had to carefully consider which work to debut first!
"Although this new one is amazing, I might be questioned now even if I draw it. People might say I've run out of ideas, right?"
Despite this concern, Akifumi felt a stronger inclination towards the new story.
After all, the twists in this one would leave readers speechless and full of excitement.
While the other story was also good, it couldn't compare to the level of shock that awaited in the former.
Just as Akifumi was struggling with this decision, a phone call dispelled his doubts.
"Minano-san?" Akifumi asked, surprised.
He knew that in the past, it was always the junior editors who contacted him, so this was the first time the editor-in-chief was reaching out personally.
"Actually, there's something I'd like you to help with. Could you come to the office?"
"Alright, I'll pack up and head over right now," Akifumi replied without hesitation.
After all, Shueisha had always been supportive of him, helping in many ways.
When they needed something, he was happy to assist.
Soon, Akifumi arrived at the company.
As the elevator doors slid open with a soft chime, Akifumi stepped into the bustling office of Shueisha.
His eyes quickly spotted his editor, Otosuna Mihari, who stood near the reception desk, flipping through some documents. Without wasting a moment, he approached her.
"Didn't you hear anything?" Akifumi asked, trying to mask his curiosity.
Mihari glanced up and shrugged, spreading her hands in a gesture of helplessness. "Minano-san said to wait until you arrived."
With a sigh, Akifumi decided to rein in his impatience and followed Mihari down the hallway.
They soon arrived at Minano's office, where the she greeted them with a calm smile.
"Would you like something to drink?" Minano offered politely.
"Just some water, please," Akifumi replied.
Mihari, ever efficient, poured a cup of water and handed it to him. The three settled onto the plush sofa, the air thick with anticipation.
Minano leaned forward, her expression turning serious. "Here's the situation..."
In a concise yet detailed manner, Minano laid out the scenario.
Shueisha, known not only for its dominance in the manga industry but also for its ventures into light novels and animation, had been tasked with an important mission.
Akifumi was being requested to assist in writing a script for the upcoming Japan Animation Awards next year.
Akifumi raised an eyebrow, puzzled. "Why specifically me?"
Minano shook her head. "It's not that we singled you out, Akifumi-sensei. This time, all scriptwriters without active projects are being assigned."
Akifumi blinked. "So... this award is that crucial?"
Minano nodded solemnly. "Absolutely. For major corporations like Shueisha, the stakes are high. To maintain our animation production qualification, we must have twenty works rank in the top ten at the Japan Animation Awards within five years, with at least three works in the top three. Otherwise, we lose our qualification."
Akifumi frowned. "That seems... intense. What's the reasoning behind such a rule?"
"The ACG industry is one of the three major industries in Japan. The competition is fierce, and this regulation prevents large corporations from becoming complacent.
"Only by continuously producing exceptional works can a company earn more privileges. This rule applies not only to animation but also to manga and light novels. Unfortunately, animation is Shueisha's weakest point."
Before Akifumi could respond, Minano continued, "Moreover, the Japan Animation Awards only accept original animation works for consideration. This places us at a significant disadvantage compared to other companies."
After listening to Minano Matome explanation, a heavy silence filled the room as the weight of the task settled on Akifumi's shoulders.
He took a sip of water, his mind already racing with ideas and challenges that lay ahead.
Comparing it to the separation of the animation, manga, and light novel industries in his past life, it was hard for Akifumi, as an outsider, to judge which approach was more reasonable.
However, the current model of how things work was undoubtedly the best way to ensure the quality of a company's works.
"I understand it now, so you're asking me to write the script, right?"
"And the specific deadline?"
The reason Akifumi agreed wasn't just because the other party was helping him, but because if the project in his hands can immediately adapted into an anime, that was undoubtedly the perfect opportunity for him.
"Since it needs to be submitted for the Bright Awards, we must submit part of the script by February next year."
After speaking, Minano apologized with a bit of embarrassment. "I'm really sorry, Akifumi-sensei. I know this request might be a bit demanding, but just do your best."
"If the project gets selected, the company will offer you corresponding payment as a gesture of goodwill."
Akifumi waved his hand. "No need to be so formal, Minano-san."
"To be honest, I'm not being entirely selfless. My decision is based on the potential this project has. Besides, the company didn't consider me at first, right?"
"It was only after some unexpected circumstances and the success of 'WorldEnd' that this idea came up, correct?"
Minano smiled but didn't answer directly.
However, the answer was clear enough.
Not wanting to dwell on this topic any further, Minano continued, "Though it might be a bit early to mention this, I'll tell you now about the benefits you'll receive if it's successful, to motivate you."
"The royalties for light novels and manga will increase to 20%."
"Merchandise share will go up to 10%."
"The fee for animation adaptations will rise to 6%."
Upon hearing Minano Matome terms, Akifumi was a little taken aback.
He couldn't help but comment, "Minano-san really believes in me, huh?"
With such generous terms, it was obvious that the company's animation department must be in trouble.
Realizing this, Akifumi knew that if he managed to produce an excellent script, even if he asked for more, the company would likely agree.
It was like a negotiation where one side revealed their final offer, giving the other side more room to operate.
This trust made Akifumi feel touched.
Minano smiled nonchalantly, "After all, Akifumi-sensei is a highly valued talent in the company."
"In the future, we might need your help in many areas."
"If a small favor can help us better understand someone, then it's definitely worth it."
Even so, the trust was still incredibly significant.
Akifumi shook his head, not wanting to delve deeper into the issue.
"By February next year, right? I'll make sure to deliver the script as soon as possible."
"I'm confident in your speed, Akifumi-sensei," Minano said with a smile, extending her hand.
"Then I'll leave it to you."
"With such generous conditions, I'm really quite envious!"
Akifumi laughed self-deprecatingly and shook Minano Matome hand.
After leaving Shueisha,
Akifumi couldn't help but sigh. "I didn't expect such an opportunity."
The two projects he was struggling to balance now seemed clear at last!
"With the excellence quality of 'Steins;Gate', getting into the top three should be no problem, right?"
Although the first 12 episodes might feel a little slow.
But he was the scriptwriter! If he handed the entire script over to Shueisha, they would be able to immediately connect the dots.
They'd be amazed by the brilliance, not give up because the first 12 episodes were too boring.
The initial hesitation about whether to serialize the work in Weekly Shonen Jump was mainly due to the long, tedious build-up.
What if the series were cut off before reaching the climax due to poor reviews?
For someone like Akifumi, whose career had been smooth sailing, that would be a major blow.
His "genius" reputation would be tainted.
He had hesitated to give up because of a lingering hope.
Now, with Minano suggestion, he no longer had to worry.
He could focus on drawing Your Lie in April with peace of mind.
[132] The Way to Become an Adult! [300 PS]
"By the way does Yor-san know how to fight?"
"Ugh... yes, I do," Yor replied absentmindedly, wiping her tears as she read The WorldEnd. Lost in the emotional climax of the story, she only realized what she had just admitted after a moment.
"Wait... what did you just ask me?" Yor's eyes widened in panic.
Akifumi gave her a helpless look. "I asked if Yor-san knows how to fight."
"Why... why would you ask that?" Yor stammered, her expression tense.
Had the young master finally discovered her secret?
Akifumi narrowed his eyes slightly. "Now I know."
Yor's heart nearly stopped. "Y-You do?"
Had he known all along?!
Her thoughts spiraled into chaos, imagining the worst-case scenario. Tears welled up in her eyes, this time not just from the emotional novel but from fear and guilt.
Seeing her tear-streaked face, Akifumi hesitated. "For you, Yor-san... was The WorldEnd ending just too sad?"
Yor froze. "...Huh?"
Akifumi gently took the book from her trembling hands. "If you're not used to stories like this, you don't have to force yourself."
Yor couldn't hold back anymore. "Ugh..." she sobbed, tears flowing uncontrollably.
To Akifumi, it seemed like she was overwhelmed by the tragic ending of the novel. Her tearful face was so pure and heartbreaking that he couldn't help but feel moved.
Meanwhile, Yor cried for an entirely different reason.
Akifumi unconsciously reached out to comfort her, patting her head gently, just like he did with Mashiro.
Then his movement froze.
'Will this upset the Thorn Princess?' A little nervous, he glanced at her.
Seeing her still crying sadly, he relaxed.
His hand, now more confident, patted her head freely.
Suddenly, there was a powerful gaze from the side.
Mashiro stood expressionlessly, glaring at the hand that was patting Yor's head.
Although no words were spoken, Akifumi, familiar with how young girls think, knew she was probably thinking, 'Why not me?'
Seeing this, Akifumi chuckled and reached out with his right hand to pat Mashiro's head.
The girl instantly narrowed her eyes, a serene smile appearing on her face.
'What a gullible little girl!'
Once things calmed down, Akifumi spoke up again, "The reason I asked is because I've seen Yor-san practicing shadow boxing before. Your stance looked really impressive, so I got a little curious."
"Eh!?" Yor's eyes widened.
So... it wasn't about her secret identity!?
Suddenly, she blurted out, "Is that all?"
"Is there something else?" Akifumi tilted his head in confusion.
'Was she referring to her assassin identity?' Akifumi thought to himself, showing a suitably puzzled expression.
"N-No, nothing else." Yor quickly shook her head. "Yes, I know a little."
"Then... could you teach me?"
"Why the sudden interest in fighting?" Yor asked, genuinely puzzled.
"When a boy is growing into a man, doesn't he naturally long for this kind of thing?" Akifumi said with an eager smile. "Once I realized I have someone skilled around me, I couldn't help but want to learn!"
"Skilled? There's no such thing..." Yor mumbled, clearly underestimating her abilities.
"If you really want to learn... I can teach you," she added hesitantly.
"Then I'll be counting on you, Yor-sensei!" Akifumi replied cheerfully before turning to Mashiro. "Once Mahiru comes back from grocery shopping, can you let her know?"
"I want to go too," Mashiro said, glancing at her drawing tablet with a sigh.
"Don't you need to finish your drawing?" Akifumi grinned.
Mashiro hesitated, torn between her art and her curiosity. Finally, she sighed and returned to her tablet. "But... you better come back early."
"No problem," Akifumi reassured her. "And I'll get you more of that layer cake."
