Hello, I’m Hyogo Amagasa. Thank you for picking up a copy of Lacey Longs for Freedom!
This is my fourth novel, but it’s the first time I’ve had a volume 2 released. Even while I’m sitting here writing this afterword, I’m just so excited thinking about how I get to tell more of Lacey’s story to you all.
As of this volume, Lacey gradually embarks on the path of an inventor. She interacts more with lots of characters who were only mentioned by name or didn’t even have a name (such as the person with fox-like eyes) in the first volume. Lacey’s world just keeps on getting bigger.
On a different subject, I bought rain boots recently. They’re ivory-colored and go up to my ankles. I’ve been wanting them for a while now, but not desperately...so after a lot of shilly-shallying, I finally bought them.
Once I had them in my possession, I just couldn’t wait for it to rain already. Then, when it rained at last and I excitedly sprang outside, something amazing happened: The boots got wet, but water didn’t seep inside!
Hold on, that should be expected! They’re rain boots! Well, I knew that as much myself, but I just couldn’t help but be tickled pink while I was walking along the rainy sidewalk.
When I think of how life holds so many joys and pleasures I haven’t experienced yet that randomly drop out of nowhere or are hiding in plain sight, I feel really happy. Lacey hesitates all the time, but I hope that she can gradually move along with Starseeking and find something important to her.
On one final note, I’d like to use this space to say thanks.
To the Overlap editing department and my editor in charge, H. I kept barraging you with “What do you think about this, H? What about this? Or this?!” and you always responded with kindness and clear answers. I really owe you a lot.
To Kyouichi, who provided the illustrations. You’re always creating gorgeous art at astounding speeds. I’m in awe of your professionalism.
Lastly, to the readers: Knowing that people are out there reading this is really encouraging. Your support is what fuels me!
Thank you to everyone who was involved with this book. I look forward to when we can meet again.
—Hyogo Amagasa