Hello everyone, how are you getting on? I’m Miri Mikawa, and though I’m having some emotional ups and downs, the world around me is on such an even keel that it’s kind of disappointing.
In my last afterword, I was presumptuous about dividing certain volumes into sets and calling each group the “such and such saga.” But those divisions actually got picked up, and starting with Volume 7, I get to break the books up into little sections on the cover fold, where it lists my previous works! I wonder if anyone else has noticed. It looks a little cool, and I’m delighted with it. Sugar Apple Fairy Tale is one lucky series to have people paying such close attention to it.
That means we’ve removed the (provisional) marker from the saga names, and this volume is officially part of the Silver Sugar Fairy saga. It’s the second book in that section.
This time, Hugh and Kat worked quite hard.
I think this is the first time Hugh has been at the center of the story for a whole book, from beginning to end.
And then there’s Kat, who doesn’t appear much but, for some reason, gets a great reception from everybody. He also had an active part to play, for once.
This was the first time I wrote a scene with Kat and Hugh meeting face-to-face, but I really enjoyed it. I thought their friendly banter was so much fun.
Anne and Challe are both still feeling uncertain, but considering it’s their first love, I hope you’ll watch over them kindly. Even so, I fear Challe’s endurance is about to run up against its limit… So I hope you’ll tune in next time to see what happens.
Now, then. It’s already been two years since everyone in Anne’s little group made their first appearance. I’m deeply, deeply grateful to the editor, who has looked after me ever since my debut. If it wasn’t for you, I would never have been able to write this much. I’m truly happy that I’m able to work with you like this.
To Aki, who draws the illustrations—this year, I got my greatest wish granted when I was able to meet you for the first time. I’m so happy. I got to have a conversation with you, which left me feeling even more motivated. But more importantly, this cover! I’ve only seen the rough draft, but Hugh is so unbelievably cool-looking! A real man! I was deeply moved. Every single time, your art makes me sigh in admiration. Thank you so much.
To all you readers—it is only because every one of you read my books that Anne and the others have been able to grow so much and add so many people to their story that it surprises even me, the author. It is thanks to you that the story has come so far. I truly feel that their world continues to grow through the power of your readership.
I wonder where all these characters are headed… I’ll be delighted if you stick with them until they get to their destinations. Okay then, see you later!
Miri Mikawa