Afterword
Looking back now that it’s over, I realized this incident is a “crossroads of life”. For me, it was surely a “crossroads of life” when I received the request for this work from the chief editor.
The story I received was a “Persona x Dengeki Bunko” collaborative project with seriously high, 120% expectations. It came as an unreasonable, big surprise that really thrilled me, as an author fresh off his debut.
Even so, the reason I took on this project is because I really love “Persona 4”. I was also convinced it would be an irreplaceable experience for me.
To tell the truth, the days since I took on this work were a series of discoveries. Game and novel. There were new, refreshing approaches to production, and everything was a learning experience. I feel like I learned much while working with everyone in the Persona team and was able to mature as an author.
Katsura Hashino-san, who pointed me in the right direction when I was lost; Yuuichirou Tanaka-san, who gave me detailed advice on the setting; Shigenori Soejima-san, who drew wonderful designs; Shuuji Sogabe-san, who provided lively ill.u.s.trations; and everyone else at Index. Also Eguchi-san and Honda-san of ASCII Media Works. Dengeki Bunko’s Oyama-san and the chief editor k.u.meta-san and all the people who helped with this work. I am truly grateful.
When I think about it, I was supported by such distinguished people. My heart is deeply moved. I’m very happy. I’m really glad I became an author.
It doesn’t seem like I’ll easily repay my debt to everyone. Please give me some time. Looking back now, I think I dedicated myself as the author Natsuki Mamiya so that I would be worthy of your help.
I’ve left the most important thing for last.
This completed work, “Persona x Detective Naoto”, exists for you readers more than anyone. If you enjoyed it even just a little, there could be no greater honor.
I look forward to the day we meet again. This has been Natsuki Mamiya.