A Problem and Eromanga

Under Aki's guidance, Tetsuya entered the hall of Dengeki Bunko.

"Hello, welcome to Dengeki Bunko. How may I assist you both?" A sales clerk in a black uniform approached Tetsuya and Aki, wearing a smile.

"We apologize for the interruption. I have a reservation for the Kagurazaka Ayame edition. Is she currently in the office?" Aki asked politely.

"Please wait a moment," the clerk turned around and dialed a number on the phone.

After a brief conversation, she apologized to Aki and Tetsuya, saying, "I apologize for the inconvenience. Kagurazaka Ayame is currently in a meeting on the seventh floor. You can go to the reception rooms on the seventh floor and wait for her. The meeting should end in a few minutes."

"Alright, thank you. We'll head there now," Aki responded gratefully.

.... After expressing their gratitude, Aki led Tetsuya into the elevator and pressed the button for the seventh floor.

"Who is this Kagurazaka Ayame person you mentioned?" Tetsuya asked as the elevator doors closed. He recalled Aki mentioning her earlier, but he hadn't heard of her before.

Upon hearing Tetsuya's question, Aki looked surprised and asked, "Tetsuya, is this your first time delving into the world of light novels? Haven't you heard of Kagurazaka Ayame?"

"Yes," Tetsuya nodded, admitting that he was a newcomer to the world of light novels in this current reality. He explained that in his previous world, as a writer for Two Dimensional, a popular platform in Heavenly Dynasty, he wasn't familiar with the best-selling light novels of this world.

Aki proceeded to explain, "Kagurazaka Ayame is a renowned editor at Dengeki Bunko. She is responsible for many popular works, including the well-known light novel, 'Fantasy Monster Blade Biography.'"

"Oh, so she's in charge of best-selling light novels," Tetsuya said, somewhat surprised. He hadn't expected Aki to be acquainted with such a prominent editor. Although this editor seemed highly capable, it made Tetsuya a little concerned about how she would handle his rookie work.

"Will she pay enough attention to my rookie book?" Tetsuya expressed his worry. He hoped that the editor wouldn't overlook his work simply because he was a newcomer.

"She will," Aki reassured him, shaking his head. He explained with a smile, "Miss Kagurazaka is a very friendly editor. As long as she sees potential in a manuscript, she will wholeheartedly support it. Given the brilliance of your work, 'Accel World,' it will surely pass the scrutiny of Dengeki Bunko."

"That's good to hear," Tetsuya sighed in relief. A good editor was worth a thousand words. Although Tetsuya didn't have high expectations, he hoped for a smooth process without any major setbacks.

At that moment, the elevator doors opened, and Aki led Tetsuya out of the elevator and into the editor's reception room.

The reception room had a simple layout, with clean desks and four comfortable chairs. Since Kagurazaka Ayame hadn't arrived yet, Tetsuya and Aki took a seat and patiently waited.

After a while, the sound of footsteps approached. Tetsuya looked up and saw a woman in her early twenties wearing a professional OL uniform. She had short hair that reached her ears and exuded an air of elegance. "Excuse me, sir. I apologize for the delay; I've been busy handling several popular works," she said.

"No problem, we just arrived," Aki replied, standing up.

"By the way, are you the author of 'Accel World' that we talked about on the phone, Tetsuya?" Kagurazaka Ayame asked, a hint of surprise in her eyes.

After exchanging greetings, Kagurazaka Ayame took the manuscript from Tetsuya and placed it on the table. She then turned around and fetched two cans of cola from a nearby refrigerator, placing them in front of Tetsuya and Aki.

"Two colas?" Tetsuya asked, slightly puzzled.

"Yes, please enjoy," Kagurazaka Ayame replied.

"Thank you," Tetsuya and Aki said in unison, appreciating the refreshments.

"Alright, please wait a moment. I'll start reading the subsequent plot," Kagurazaka Ayame said as she began to read the following chapters of "Accel World."

Aki and Tetsuya, feeling a bit tired, opened the cans of cola and took a refreshing sip to quench their thirst.

As Kagurazaka Ayame earnestly reviewed the manuscript, Tetsuya and Aki maintained a polite silence, patiently waiting for her evaluation.

In the quiet room, the only sounds were their breathing and the turning of pages.

On the other side, Kagurazaka Ayame was engrossed in reading the subsequent plot of "Accel World." She marveled at the outstanding aspects of the light novel, noting that although the initial portrayal of the protagonist as a slightly overweight character might deter some readers, the subsequent plot unfolded in an organized manner. The story had a pleasant and relaxed tone in everyday life, with carefully described and thrilling battle scenes. Most importantly, the characters had distinct personalities, a characteristic she valued highly in light novels.

In light novels, likable and memorable characters often triggered discussions, such as declaring, "This character is my waifu!" or engaging in playful debates like "Your waifu is mine!" or "I've read your waifu's book, and she's amazing!" Every year, a popular topic emerged in light novels: the "Two-Dimensional Male Protagonist Peace Ranking of Heroines."

Although some light novels might have flaws in plot or lack scientific rigor, the presence of well-developed and likable characters was a key to success. In the case of "Accel World," the portrayal of the steady and natural Kuroyukihime, the lively and cute Chiyuri, and the transformation of the initially timid Haruyuki into a brave protagonist made the novel a success in terms of characterization.

As Kagurazaka Ayame continued reading, she couldn't help but look at Tetsuya with a peculiar expression. If not for Tetsuya standing before her now, she would have had her doubts. Was the author of this novel, Tetsuya, really only seventeen years old?

_______________________

"Truly deserving of the work recommended by popular blogger Aki," Kagurazaka Ayame said, organizing the neatly arranged draft and placing it on the table. She looked at Tetsuya and praised him, saying, "Tetsuya, aside from some minor issues with the style, your work is innovative, with an intriguing plot that progresses smoothly. It's an interesting and well-characterized light novel, making it an excellent work for this year."

I may be a talented light novel writer, but can I truly possess a good writing style? Tetsuya chuckled inwardly. Although he had written many novels in the past, according to the System's evaluation, his light novel talent was at the first level. While his style may have some minor shortcomings, there were no major issues. The requirements for a light novel's style were not too demanding; as long as it could be understood by the readers, that was sufficient. At least, narrating "Accel World" wouldn't be a difficult task.

"I told you, Tetsuya, with the setting of your light novel, participating in the Dengeki Bunko novel big event will surely be successful," Aki exclaimed excitedly, patting Tetsuya's shoulder. As the first senior reader of "Accel World," he hoped to see the continuation of the story and witness its future sales volume.

"Yes, we truly hope to recommend 'Accel World' to a wider audience," Kagurazaka Ayame said sincerely, using Tetsuya's name this time. "Teacher Tetsuya, I will prepare a contract for you within the next two days and send it to you. Once your word count reaches 100,000 characters, we can move forward with publication. However, there is the matter of illustrations. I suggest that you put in more effort. Once the word count is sufficient, I will recommend your work to the renowned industry artist, Eromanga-sensei. If she is unwilling to provide illustrations, we will have to seek another artist for the publication."

"Eromanga-sensei?" Tetsuya recalled the name. Initially, the online community consisted of two artists who shared the same honorific, "Kashiwagi Eri" and "Eromanga." Both seemed to excel in Ecchi and Eroge illustrations. If he could secure Eromanga-sensei's illustrations, it would undoubtedly boost the sales volume of "Accel World."

Illustrations in light novels held great importance. In addition to that, Tetsuya had another plan in mind. If Eromanga-sensei declined to provide illustrations, he could use his remaining Fantasy Points to exchange for manga talent. Although his first-level manga talent might not match Eromanga-sensei's skill, it would still surpass that of amateur illustration masters.

In Tetsuya's mind, he envisioned Kuroyukihime's appearance. However, he didn't want to ruin Kuroyukihime's image in his own hands. In Akihabara, a best-selling hub for various interests, it would be more suitable for someone like Eromanga-sensei, who excelled in Ecchi and Eroge themes, to create the illustrations.

"Thank you, Kagurazaka-san," Tetsuya expressed his gratitude, standing up and accepting the paper and pen offered by Kagurazaka Ayame. He left his address and phone number, noting down Kagurazaka Ayame's contact information as well. Afterward, he led Aki out of Dengeki Bunko.

In the next two days, Kagurazaka Ayame would prepare a contract. Once Tetsuya had more words written, they could proceed with publication. Tetsuya was still concerned about whether the style of "Accel World" would be compatible with this world's standards. However, seeing Aki and Kagurazaka Ayame's level of surprise, Tetsuya began to anticipate the sales volume of "Accel World." While contemplating, a prompt sound from the System once again resounded in his mind.

"Initiating Fantasy Light Novel Talent Mission: With all due respect, the current light novel authors are all trash. Achieve the highest sales volume among rookie light novel authors next month, gaining over 50,000 fans and advancing your light novel talent, as well as obtaining Fantasy Points. Failure will result in a downgrade of your light novel talent."

No wonder it's called the Fantasy System; it truly brings about unexpected situations. But what does the mission name mean? With all due respect, is everyone here really considered trash? Is it implying that failure will result in being randomly clubbed to death?

Tetsuya wiped away a cold sweat. Indeed, achieving the highest sales volume among rookie light novel authors in Dengeki Bunko would earn him a reward of 100,000 Japanese Yen. However, if he were to fail, would his first-level light novel talent be downgraded to zero?

Could that mean his hopes of becoming a renowned light novel author would be shattered?

Thinking about this, Tetsuya couldn't help but shudder. But considering that he had already achieved the top three sales volume in the rookie mission prompt, he felt a bit relieved. This meant that works like "Fantasy Monster Blade Biography" and "Love Metronome" were not part of this mission category, making it much easier without such formidable competitors.

Come on, my "Accel World," my Kuroyukihime, my Chiyuri. Don't disappoint me!

As the sound of footsteps echoed in the distance, Tetsuya and Aki returned to Akihabara. With the "SAO" Device scheduled for pickup the next day, Tetsuya bid farewell to Aki for now, agreeing to meet again on Monday to hand over the game device after school. He then headed toward his home in Akihabara.

All the tasks for the day were completed, but Tetsuya couldn't help but feel that something was amiss. Wasn't this supposed to be the leisurely and carefree life he had imagined in this world? The reality seemed much more tiring. Who would trade places with him and endure these many days?

No, it's definitely not good. Who knows what kind of crazy fellows are waiting for me if I return home? I'll continue to enjoy my life here for the sake of my cute and sprouting sister.

After approximately half an hour, Tetsuya finally arrived at the entrance gate of Gabriel's main house. Although it was cool in the morning, the weather had turned scorching hot in the afternoon, making his head feel a bit dizzy from the sun.

It seems like I should minimize going outside. Is the so-called leisurely and carefree life at home just a dream? Tetsuya pondered. He was about to cross the street and head home when he noticed Gabriel, wearing a straw hat, diligently tending to the garden outside their house, wearing gloves to pull out weeds.

Tetsuya couldn't help but chuckle. He never expected that the little angel he wanted to help would be so diligent. Regardless, hardworking female students always caught his attention, such as Yuuki Asuna and the present Gabriel. These characters were truly likable.

As Tetsuya prepared to turn around and head home, a female student with purple short hair, wearing a brown coat and a checked skirt, appeared carrying a large trash bag from Gabriel's garden. Seeing Tetsuya, she was slightly taken aback before exclaiming in surprise, "Classmate Tetsuya, what are you doing here? You weren't secretly observing her while she cleaned up the garden, were you?"