Afterword

Greetings. I’m Nozomu Mochitsuki, and I’m glad we’re meeting again.

I’d like to mention that this story is being regularly uploaded to the Internet in a serialized format, so every so often, tidbits from current affairs that left an impression on the author at the time of writing will make their way into the story. Within this second volume, the idea that “famine occurs not from an absolute lack of food but impediments in its distribution” is one of these tidbits.

I learned of this from a show that covered the Great Depression in the US and an article about an NGO that dealt with famine prevention strategies (this was a few years ago, so I’m not sure if it’s still applicable today). If there was simply an absolute lack of food, then there would be nothing that could be done, but there is enough food in the world to keep every single person sufficiently fed. Famine occurs because some areas have an excess of food that ends up rotting instead of being transported to the areas in need. In other words, the problem both originates from and can be solved by the systems that people put in place. I felt like I was being presented with a question in a homework assignment.

...Tearmoon, you see, is a story that also offers the opportunity to learn a little about society and spark some thought about the world’s people and ethics. That’s why I highly recommend it to anyone who has kids or grandkids! It’s perfect for their summer vacation book reports!

Now, like before, it’s time to ask Princess Mia to give us the highlights of the third volume. Go ahead! You’re up!

Mia: “...Actually, can’t we just end the story here after two volumes? Something tells me I’ll lead a much happier life that way.”

Mochitsuki: “Don’t be ridiculous. If Your Highness doesn’t put in the work, your descendants are going to have it harder. This is no time to be slacking off. The whole reason behind—”

Mia: “Okay, okay, I get it. Third volume, right? Fine. Let’s see... Oh, is this the one where I beat up a massive shark?”

Mochitsuki: “No, that’s in a future volume.”

Mia: “Oh, then what about the time I win with more votes than Rafina in a popularity contest?”

Mochitsuki: “That is something that happens, but are you sure that’s the story you want to highlight? Just so you know, if Miss Rafina ends up hearing about it, then you’re on your own.”

Mia: “Hm? My, did I say something? Ohoho, how embarrassing. I seem to have the hardest time remembering things these days.”

So there you go. A new character is coming next volume! Something to look forward to!

Lastly, a few words of appreciation.

I’d like to thank the illustrator, Gilse, for continuing to provide such wonderful artwork. I’m forever grateful for your adorable depictions of Mia. In fact, I’ve had readers struggling with how adorable she is. They’ve said things like “This isn’t right. Mia’s just too cute...” (laugh) As the author, this pleases me to no end!

I’d also like to thank my editor, F, who has helped me in many ways, as well as my family and relatives who supported me along the way.

Finally, a big thank you to you, the readers, for picking up this book. I hope you’ve enjoyed the great adventures Mia has gone on. May we meet again in the next volume.