Chapter 8: demon slayer Novel Version
The work Izumi Chihiro finally decided on was demon slayer.
demon slayer tells the story of how the life of the young boy Tanjiro drastically changed on the day his family was attacked by demons. His mother and four younger siblings were brutally murdered, leading him and his sister Nezuko, who had become a demon, to embark on the path of a demon slayer.
Its original manga, in terms of art and paneling, was not particularly outstanding, but its emotions were delicate and very moving. By the middle of its serialization, its ranking was already quite high, and it was hailed as one of the 'Four Pillars'. It already had some fame before its anime adaptation.
Due to its subject matter, a certain big shot believed it would definitely be a hit before its anime adaptation, but no one expected it to become so popular.
Later, when asked about the production choice, the author, Crocodile-sensei, chose Ufotable for the anime production, which brought together the right timing, location, and people all at once.
demon slayer instantly became a massive hit online after the astonishing production of its 19th episode, even creating the sales myth of 80 million manga copies in one year.
The subsequent demon slayer: Infinite Train Arc also achieved a box office of 40 billion yen, becoming the top-selling film of that year.
It would be impossible for him to simply replicate such a legendary work; it was a miracle created by multiple factors.
In this current world, things would naturally be different, especially since he was using the light novel format, which would have an even more limited influence.
However, compared to some of the anime's shortcomings, the light novel format allows for extensive psychological descriptions without feeling out of place.
In that case, perhaps certain plot points could be rendered even more moving.
Especially since he had finished reading the entire work, he was already very familiar with its plot structure. As someone doing a secondary creation, he could also avoid some of the original work's plot flaws and, at the same time, enrich some of the storylines, making certain thinly developed characters more fleshed out.
This was the decision Izumi Chihiro finally made after careful consideration, deeming it the most suitable subject matter for his current situation.
This work had relatively few descriptions of romance, focusing more on sibling affection, family, and friendships.
Coincidentally, having a younger sister in this new life made him feel these emotions more deeply.
Due to the difference in subject matter, Izumi Chihiro made an assessment.
The content of the first volume would roughly cover up to the point of slaying Lower Moon Five Rui.
And within this past month, he had already written the first volume of "demon slayer." The plot changes were minor, mainly making some settings more reasonable.
The important thing was how he would elaborate on it, how he would express it through words—that was the key.
For this, he repeatedly read his manuscript several times, spending a few more days revising it before finally sending the finished work to Machida Sonoko.
...
"Demons eat people, people kill demons, the positions are clear-cut... This subject matter is quite bloody, but depicted with such passion, it's almost a classic shonen."
"From the subject matter alone, it's not too fresh. For a battle system, it seems well thought out. If it can be written brilliantly, swordsmen and the like will have enough appeal for chuunibyou teenagers."
"The plot's fluidity has improved again, and there are far fewer typos than last time. It seems it must have gone through multiple revisions, right?"
Machida Sonoko held the manuscript, which she had read several times, and slowly stated her opinion.
"Yes, I read it back and forth several times and also spent a lot of time... Since I decided to do it, I'll take it seriously."
He nodded.
"That's right, as a mature light novel author, you should learn to improve yourself. The help an editor provides is always limited."
Machida Sonoko gave him an approving look.
"Then..."
Izumi Chihiro's eyes were filled with anticipation.
"It's good enough. Just looking at the quality, it's at least better than some guys who rely on illustrations to make a living... Next, I will submit the manuscript. If they agree, you'll have a chance to debut."
Machida Sonoko didn't dare to be too absolute, as this wasn't something she alone could decide. Although her judgment was that it was good enough to debut, the publishing house also had to consider whether it would lose money.
"Even so, I'm already very satisfied."
Izumi Chihiro's expression brightened.
He trusted Machida Sonoko's eye as an editor. As long as she approved, the resistance from others should not be too great.
His first published work was coming soon!
"Oh, by the way, Machida Editor, if it's confirmed that I can debut, can I choose my own illustrator?"
Izumi Chihiro was unfamiliar with this, so he asked.
"Normally, if you're confirmed to debut, they will proactively arrange a suitable illustrator for you. However, established authors usually have long-term collaborators... But since you're asking, it seems you have a preferred artist in mind?"
Machida Sonoko's tone was probing.
It had to be admitted that exquisite artwork from an illustrator indeed greatly enhanced light novels, especially for works that specialized in fan service.
Therefore, established authors would choose suitable illustrators themselves.
"Yes, I already have someone in mind, and they've agreed."
He said with certainty.
"In that case, as long as the illustrator's skill level is up to par, they won't object. As for the compensation, that will depend on their skill."
Machida Sonoko lightly touched her chin, deep in thought.
Izumi Chihiro was very satisfied with this answer and told Sagiri after returning home.
"Compensation doesn't matter. I just want to be Ni-san's illustrator."
Sagiri stopped drawing and said with an indifferent expression.
"But if Sagiri can't pass the test, then it might be a bit troublesome."
He deliberately teased her.
In reality, the requirements for an illustrator weren't too high. As long as the author agreed, the publishing house generally wouldn't interfere.
Because, under normal circumstances, one would definitely choose an illustrator who draws well, right?
"Ni-san, don't underestimate me. My drawings will definitely surprise Ni-san! I'll definitely pass!"
Sagiri said with a displeased expression.
Otherwise, all her efforts would have been in vain.
"I'll look forward to it."
Izumi Chihiro said with a smiling squint.
What kind of transformation would Sagiri achieve in three months?
9 Publication Decision!
Fujikawa Bunko, inside an office.
A group of people were deciding on their upcoming publication targets.
They had already voted to reject the publication of some works, with only a small number of works getting a chance to be published.
This was natural. As a company, they had to assess a work's commercial potential. If they consistently lost money, they wouldn't be able to continue.
So, each of them received many manuscripts, and on a certain day, they held a meeting to decide which works would stand out.
Now, it was "demon slayer," recommended by Machida Sonoko.
"It looks like a rather cliché work. It doesn't seem like it could be a big seller. Isekai genres are more appealing than this."