If it weren't for Yukinoshita Haruno, the original author Akira Fujimiya would never have been able to secure the full animation adaptation rights.
An hour had passed at Future Comics Publishing House.
In addition to signing the contract, Akira had confirmed a great number of details.
He didn't need an assistant, so there was no need to recruit one for him in the publishing house. Royalties would be settled monthly, including both fixed royalties and commissions. Single-volume books would be handled separately.
The animation adaptation rights and related matters were entirely under Akira's control, independent of Future Comics Publishing House.
He had to admit that the contract had been strangely customized for him. Akira didn't even need to consider it carefully to understand that Yukinoshita Haruno had been involved. Yet he did not ask her about it. To her, this small advantage was nothing—it was merely a minor help to him.
"Congratulations, Mangaka Fujimiya-kun," Yukinoshita Yukino said as they exited the publishing house.
"Thank you." Akira took her hand gently.
.....
Before lunchtime,
Akira and Yukino arrived at Flash Animation Studio.
Kanae Takahashi had already finished reading the detailed script of Puella Magi Madoka Magica and was preparing to go for lunch.
The three of them decided to visit the same Japanese restaurant, Kanae Takahashi often frequented.
The restaurant was quiet, with a sense of calm and privacy.
After placing their orders, Kanae Takahashi chose a glass of the restaurant's signature sweet wine. Since, Akira and Yukino, unfamiliar with the place, they decided to go with her recommendations.
While waiting for their food, Kanae Takahashi had asked Akira several questions, and he answered each one in turn. While, Yukino silently recorded his explanations in her notebook.
Thanks to the efforts of all the members at Studio 3, the first episode of the animation would be ready for viewing tomorrow.
Akira wasn't surprised; compared to most modern anime that often took a week or more, many scenes in Madoka Magica were simpler, which reduced the overall difficulty.
"With the detailed script sent by Director Yukinoshita, I feel like I can already visualize the entire animation," Kanae Takahashi said, glancing at Yukino across the table.
"I just typed Akira-kun's ideas. The real talent belongs to him," Yukino replied modestly.
"Yukino-chan, let's wait until the first episode comes out. I am still excited to see your ability as a director," Akira said with a grin.
"You looking for flaws?" Yukino raised an eyebrow, confident that there wouldn't be many.
"Yes. Once you satisfy me, you'll be responsible for the second episode onward. I'm just helping you get started," Akira nodded.
"I accept your challenge," Yukino said, a smile forming on her face.
Kanae Takahashi observed the interaction and felt a hint of envy.
Soon, the food arrived.
Akira found the Japanese cuisine unfamiliar; the subtle flavors felt a little bland to him. The two girls, however, praised it enthusiastically.
After lunch, Akira offered to pay the bill, leaving Kanae Takahashi slightly embarrassed.
On the way back to the studio,
Akira said, "Please take good care of Yukino-chan in the future."
"Of course," Kanae Takahashi nodded.
Yukino, walking beside him, felt a warmth in her heart at hearing the exchange.
.....
Back at Studio 3,
Akira guided Yukino as they checked each team member's progress, offering suggestions. Initially, the animators had respected him out of courtesy, but now they were impressed by his supervisory abilities. Every suggestion he gave hit the mark, increasing their admiration.
On the way, Tamura Wakaka, supervisor of Studio 2, quietly approached and observe. She was surprised to see Akira actively giving instructions.
"Mr. Fujimiya, I didn't expect you to have supervisory skills. This really surprises me," she said after Akira had finished.
"Director Tamura, I only know a little," Akira replied humbly.
"Though you may not have reached the level of Arano, you've definitely surpassed most new supervisors," Wakaka praised with a smile.
"Thank you for your recognition," Akira said, bowing politely.
Hearing this, the members of Studio 3 raised their admiration for him even further.
Wakaka Tamura herself was a top supervisor — respected equally with Niino Harahito. Her acknowledgment highlighted Akira's competence.
"Fujimiya-kun, I came to discuss about your manga," Wakaka said, scanning the studio with interest.
"I understand. Please come to the office, and we can talk," Akira replied calmly.
As they entered the office, some animators whispered curiously about the new manga that he had created.
"You'll see when the next issue of Future Comics is released," Kanae Takahashi said proudly. "I guarantee you'll be impressed. I'll make sure each of you receives a copy to understand what a top artist can do."
Yukino glanced at Kanae Takahashi but remained focused on her notes, recording everything Akira taught her. Thanks to his guidance, she felt confident she could handle the responsibilities of a supervisor.
.....
"Most of the animations I oversee are light-hearted, with stories focusing on girls and romance. I learned about Akira-kun's manga from Nanako, and when I saw the cover, I thought I must take over the animation production," Tamura Wakaka explained.
"That won't be a problem. The animation adaptation rights are mine. But—"
"I've assigned the Second Studio's animation to my assistant. You won't need to be there constantly," Wakaka smiled knowingly.
"With your guidance, Yukino-san will progress even faster," Akira said.
"When Yukinoshita-san arrives, I'll coordinate temporary cooperation between the second and third studios, letting the second lady of the Yukinoshita family act as my assistant," Tamura added.
"Thank you on Yukino's behalf," Akira said, standing and bowing.
"Fujimiya-kun, don't you plan to become a supervisor yourself?" Wakaka asked, curiously.
"I want to focus on creation. Supervising is only a way to help Yukino become a qualified supervisor," he answered.
Tamura Wakaka smiled softly, understanding.
"If she knew this, she would be deeply moved," she said.
"Please tell her," Akira replied simply.
"I will, when the time is right." Wakaka giggles as she said.
"Thank you for your help," he said sincerely.
Wakaka simply smiled, impressed by his honesty.
Unlike others, he wanted Yukino to know, showing his sincerity.
Wakaka remembered another purpose for her visit.
"Fujimiya-kun, if Nanako pursues you, please—"
"I understand. I'll keep my distance and won't develop any relationship with her," he interrupted seriously.
"No, No, you misunderstood. I meant you should be friends with Nanako," Wakaka said gently.
"....Considering her personality, if I become her friend, she'll likely develop expectations of me," he said cautiously.
"That doesn't matter. Even if you and Nanako become a couple, I won't interfere," she reassured him.
"...."
...
After Wakaka left, Akira's mind wandered over the conversation.
"Nanako has no experience with love. If she ends up with Fujimiya-kun, it will certainly be a happy memory for her."
"But—"
"When I was young, I liked a handsome boy, but I didn't confess. Later, after marrying, my husband passed away, and I never remarried. Because of my career, I often think about that boy…"
".... "
The memories trailed off, leaving Akira speechless.
Tamura Wakaka's words were unconventional, yet perhaps intentional, designed to ensure he took responsibility for Nanako.
Akira shook his head, deciding to avoid the complication entirely.
In the afternoon,
He continued giving suggestions to Studio 3 while working alongside the painters. Yukino handled the backgrounds, occasionally glancing at Akira as he worked diligently.
She noticed the similarity between him and her sister—both could accomplish anything once serious.
When she was a child, she admired her sister's abilities, striving to become like her. Yet, she later realized she had admired only her sister's strength, and the pretense beneath that strength had once disgusted her.
Seeing Akira work reminded her of the sincerity she had longed for in others.
...
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