Afterword

Hello, Hitsuji Taro here.

This time, the thirteenth volume of Akashic Records of Bastard Magic Instructor has been published.

I offer my Infinite thanks to the editors, publishing staff, and to all the readers who have supported Bastard Magic Instructor.

Now, this thirteenth volume follows the twelfth, serving as the second part of “events that must be passed through on the way to the story’s conclusion”! With the previous volume and this one, the countless elements and foreshadowing that had been scattered in various directions have begun to converge into one grand flow… or at least, that’s the kind of narrative progression I aimed for. I hope it feels that way.

And above all, this volume features a story I’ve long wanted to write… Glenn vs. Albert! Man, I’ve never been more relieved that I made Albert a guy instead of a girl! That kind of development only works with two dudes, doesn’t it? Plus, as always, just having them fight a close-range magic battle would be dull, so I took this chance to make it a special kind of fight. How did you like it?

Honestly, as the author, I’m beyond satisfied—overwhelmed with joy, even. It was such a blast to write, full of energy. Truth is, ever since I was a kid, I’ve been a huge fan of those moments where rival partners (it’s crucial that they’re usually allies and partners, not sworn enemies from the start) go all-out against each other, like Sae** Ryo vs. Umiji or Ex vs. ZER**. So, being able to pull that off in Bastard Magic Instructor felt amazing.

That said, even I’m shocked at how much the clumsy Eve-chan has softened lately. Who would’ve thought that “annoying woman” character would grow this much? It’s like the characters start moving on their own, and you never know what’ll happen next in a novel.

Anyway, since the last volume and this one have focused on events outside the academy and deeply tied to the main storyline, I’d love to do a slightly lighter story next time, shining the spotlight back on the academy. I’m hoping to write a lively, slapstick episode that feels like a true school story, digging into not just the heroines but also the other students. Of course, I plan to keep the main plot moving forward smoothly as well.

If you, dear readers, stick with me for the next volume and enjoy it, it’ll be the greatest reward for me as an author. I humbly ask for your continued support.

Hitsuji Taro