Some artists are hailed as musicians’ musicians—acknowledged by other musicians for their exceptional musicality and skill despite not garnering significant sales. This series began as an exploration of such a character, an unassuming protagonist highly esteemed among his peers. Initially conceived as a lighthearted tale, it revolved around Angeline’s desire to return home amidst numerous obstacles. She would fly into a rage at these setbacks all while spreading overblown propaganda about her father, and Belgrieve ended up baffled by all the undeserved praise. The novel would end with their touching and heartfelt reunion. That was it—this was supposed to be a comedy novel wrapped up in one volume.
Writing has always been a hobby of mine, but crafting a satisfying conclusion for a ten-thousand-character-long story was something I hadn’t attempted yet, so that was what I set out to do. As I delved into it, treating it as a game, I committed to writing until the story reached its natural end. After I submitted my work to a website featuring rankings based on ratings and bookmarks, the novel swiftly ascended to the top spot on the daily rankings within a week. It was originally planned as a short series, and yet my ambition got the better of me as I extended it into a lengthy tale surpassing one million characters. Curiously, various publishers began reaching out to me. After mulling it over for a bit, I decided to go with Earth Star Novels, who had been the very first to get in touch. Under their patronage, I’ve thankfully been able to get this work published all the way up to the final volume.
Each time I revised a volume for publication, I couldn’t help but notice the lack of depth in world-building, a consequence of my initial casual approach. If even the author could feel it, then surely the readers would too. But even as the books hit the shelves, the online serialization went on; when an incompetent author like me has to create two different worlds for two different versions simultaneously, that author is bound to get all sorts of things mixed up. Consequently, the world was left in its haphazard state. Still, a part of me wondered: if I had fixated more on world-building and it ended up overly complicated, would I have gotten so many readers in the first place? Even now, I don’t have my answer. Ultimately, the story centered on Angeline’s return to Belgrieve, and that consistent thread from beginning to end was perhaps what sustained reader interest in spite of my poor writing.
During the series’s run, numerous other web-adapted light novels emerged only to fade after a few volumes. I’m immensely grateful to have concluded this series the way I envisioned. Yet, this achievement wasn’t solely the work of a lone author. It involved the efforts of many for this story to reach your eyes. Since this is the final volume, I would like to take this chance to thank them all.
First, I offer my thanks to the incredible illustrator, Master toi8, whose captivating artwork breathed life into all eleven volumes. What was nothing more than one of the many amateur stories on the net managed to reach so many readers, and I have no doubt in my mind that it was all thanks to the magnificent illustrations. They added much-needed depth to the world and immersed the readers in the story far more than what I could accomplish with words. I would like to express my appreciation once more. Truly, thank you.
Next, my sincerest gratitude goes to Urushibara-sensei, the maestro behind the manga edition. The manga impeccably captures the essence of the original work while infusing it with unique elements only achievable in manga. It remains a delightful read, and it brings me immense joy to hear from the readers who transitioned from the manga to the novel version. You have my deepest thanks for continuing to work around my shoddy writing. I earnestly hope we can continue our collaborative journey together.
My heartfelt thanks extend to my editors. Firstly, to M-san, the first to reach out to me for novelization. It’s through your support that this book found its way into the world. Equally deserving of gratitude is M-san, who took on the double duty of editing alongside the other M-san (yes, it gets confusing), persisting as my editor even after the former M-san departed from the project. Your enduring involvement, including the time you traveled all the way to Oita to assist in building a roof over my deck, will never be forgotten. You faced my work with seriousness and sincerity, and you have my utmost gratitude. Thank you.
My gratitude also goes to I-san, who bravely undertook the challenge of inheriting this series during its final stages. Stepping into a project midway and assuming its completion is a very demanding task, and it’s your unwavering patience and support that enabled me to reach the conclusion. Thank you.
I would like to acknowledge the editors of the manga edition, T-san and O-san, and everyone in the marketing department whose tireless efforts ensured the success of the book. To Earth Star Novels and all affiliated individuals, your contributions are immensely appreciated. Thank you.
Finally to you, dear reader, who journeyed through this tale, I owe the deepest gratitude. Your enduring interest propelled this series forward. If the name “Mojikakiya” sparks curiosity in the future, even in the slightest, I’ll be content. Truly, thank you.
The story is now concluded. Where once I was an author crafting the narrative, I’m now but a reader revisiting it. If, like me, you could visualize Belgrieve and Angeline in motion, my aspirations are fulfilled.
As autumn unfolds, ushering in a crisp chill, nature’s vibrant hues hint at the imminent winter. I’m sure the dungeon and the guild are operating smoothly by now, and I’m sure that Angeline and her party members have returned laden with tales of eastern lands. After the rice harvest, perhaps I’ll visit Turnera to hear of their adventures.
MOJIKAKIYA, October 2021