The development of otaku culture in this world was both familiar and strange. Some works existed just like in his memories, but most did not. And since this world might include people he once knew, Hikigaya had to be extra careful when choosing what to "borrow." The last thing he wanted was an awkward coincidence.
In his mind, the type of story that suited his writing style best was one that leaned toward melancholy, seriousness, and realism.
There were quite a few famous titles that fit that tone—Puella Magi Madoka Magica, Anohana, 5 Centimeters per Second, Your Lie in April, Clannad, Re:Zero − Starting Life in Another World, Steins;Gate…
On paper, it seemed like a lot of options. In practice, not so much.
Many of those stories relied heavily on the power of animation—the visual atmosphere, the soundtracks, the direction—to deliver their emotional punch. Translating that same impact into a light novel was another challenge altogether. It wasn't impossible, but it required a writer of considerable skill.
Unfortunately, the current "Hikigaya Hachiman" still wasn't at that level.
Re:Zero was a tempting option since it had a solid novel structure, but he found some of its plot turns too forced—and to be frank, he didn't really like Natsuki Subaru's personality.
After much deliberation, he finally decided on his target: Summer Time Rendering.
The story went like this—The protagonist, Ajiro Shinpei, returns to his hometown, Hitogashima, for the funeral of his childhood friend Ushio. The island has a population of only about 700, surviving mainly on fishing and tourism. Rumor has it that long ago, the island was plagued by a mysterious illness known as "Shadow Sickness." Those afflicted would see an identical copy of themselves… and soon after, the original would die, replaced by the shadow.
A sweltering summer, a small secluded island, a strange disease, endless loops of life and death—every classic element of Japanese suspense and horror woven together. Yet beneath its familiar setup, Summer Time Rendering redefined the concept of "time loops," proving once again the magnetic power of a well-crafted mystery.
For Hikigaya, the story's suspense and psychological tension were a perfect fit for his writing style. Its structure could also be faithfully adapted into light novel form without much loss.
Decision made, Hikigaya began replaying the anime's events in his mind.
Thanks to his "two lifetimes' worth" of mental discipline, his memory had become sharper—though not quite photographic, it was good enough to recall the overall plot. The fine details, however, he'd have to reconstruct himself. Otherwise, even a brilliant concept would end up as something painfully mediocre.
Whether as a debut attempt or an entry for the Rookie Award, he wanted the first volume polished to perfection. So that entire summer, he barely left his room, immersing himself in writing.
His sudden diligence worried his family. Even his usually indifferent parents grew suspicious, wondering if he'd fallen into depression.
In the end, he bribed Komachi with a lollipop to come up with an excuse that would calm them down.
"It's been ages since I logged into this site…"
Hikigaya re-entered the Rookie Award portal. Scrolling through the rankings, he saw that the previous number-one entry still held its spot, but the following positions were full of new titles—clear evidence that promising newcomers had emerged.
Of course, the public ranking wasn't the final word; the editors had the ultimate say. Otherwise, early submissions would dominate unfairly, and true gems might be overlooked.
After browsing for a while, he uploaded the first volume of Summer Time Rendering under the same anonymous account—his pen name still just a random string of letters. He'd decide on something proper only when he officially debuted.
"Let's hope this time… people will recognize me."
His hands rubbed together nervously. Compared to his first submission, he was much more anxious now.
Before, he could laugh off his failure as inexperience. But this time, he had no such excuse. If he failed again—Even with mental preparation, the blow would hit hard.
Seriously hard.
"If things really go south," he muttered, glancing at the clear blue sky, "I'll just beg Komachi for a lap pillow. That should heal my broken spirit."
The thought actually made him smile.
That same day, Yamada Fairy messaged him.
Yamada Fairy:Hikigaya! My debut novel, "Dark Fairy of the Explosive Flames," is officially releasing today!
Me:Miss Yamada, are you telling me this so I'll support your sales? I'm sorry, but I'm broke. I can't afford to buy extra copies just for moral support.
Yamada Fairy:Hah?! As if I need your pathetic help! I'm saying I'll send you a few copies! You should read them, admire my genius, and get your friends to worship me as their new idol!
Me:You really are full of confidence… But since you're offering a gift, who am I to refuse?
Yamada Fairy:Enough talking! Give me your address—I'll ship them right now!
Me:Fine, fine.
After hastily sending his address, he assumed that would be the end of their exchange. But she followed up with another message.
Yamada Fairy:By the way, don't you want to ask me anything? Like my debut experience? Or maybe some inspiration tips? Come on—if you beg nicely, I might share some of my brilliant ideas.
The girl was basically screaming for him to take the bait.
Me:Thanks for the offer, Miss Yamada, but… I refuse! I'm confident in my new work. Who knows—maybe soon you'll be hearing my debut news instead.
Yamada Fairy:So confident, huh?
Me:Damn right.
Yamada Fairy:Prove it. Screenshot or it didn't happen.jpg.