Afterword

This is Makishima Suzuki, the writer of volume three.

Ms. Elf is starting to get accustomed to modern Japan, and I, as the fledgling author, have been watching her progress with a smile on my face. Koto Ward in Tokyo is the main stage of this story, but I come from a more tranquil place in the rural country. Oh, maybe tranquil isn’t quite the right word. This is a region where deer will hop out from nowhere on your way to the convenience store. But the nights are quiet and relaxing, and I can’t let go of my hobby of gardening, so I don’t plan on moving any time soon.

As someone who grew up in a place surrounded by mountains, I can’t quite get accustomed to the busy atmosphere of the big city. But Koto Ward is very popular as a residential area, with many places to enjoy like riverbeds and parks, and the four seasons can be experienced to the fullest there. I’m sure our genuine Ms. Elf will love living there. If I ever do end up moving, I’m sure Koto Ward will be my first choice.

If you’re wondering why I’m so insistent on Koto Ward, it’s because I did research into various regions when looking for a place to live on my own. I’d lived at my family’s home for most of my life, and living on my own was a dream of mine. But in the end, that dream never did get fulfilled. That’s because I met someone who I fell in love with. Thank you. I’ll take your congratulations to fuel my writing. Did my dream of living alone vanish like bubbles? No, it had become a part of my writing, and it feels like I’ve been getting a glimpse into a second home. Oh, I’m not a Peeping Tom, so please don’t report me. I may not seem like it, but I am a novelist. It may be somewhat distant from reality, but it’s my dream, after all. I’m sure those two will spend their days with joy, discovering the beautiful wonders of Japan along the way.

In any case, it has been very easy for me to gather resources for my writing as of late. There are even videos of what it’s like riding a Tohoku bullet train all the way to the destination out there. As a writer, I couldn’t ask for better research material. I can see what the destination is like right away and get a feel for the actual hot spring sites. When imagining the sights and the people who live there and turning them into words, something strange occurs. After I finish writing, it gives me this refreshing feeling, as if I’ve gone on a trip there myself. Not to mention, my traveling expenses are zero. When I discovered this wonderful hobby, I was quite moved. I dubbed it “air traveling,” and I even recommended it to friends and family, but I still remember the awkward smiles they gave me in response, which is quite unfortunate. It’s such a fun hobby... Ah, but there’s no point in me going on about my slightly odd interests.

I’m happy to say that this series, “Welcome to Japan, Ms. Elf!” has been made into a comic by Comic Fire. Volume one of the comics is actually releasing on the same day as this book, so I will likely be running to the bookstore, full of smiles. The illustrations drawn by Aonoesu are so expressive, and they’ve drawn Ms. Elf so adorably on her first visit to Japan. You’re sure to discover new things to love about this title, so if you’re interested, I would be thrilled if you picked up a copy. I’m certain you won’t regret it, and I hope it will bring you joy!

In other good news, volume four has been confirmed, thanks to all your support. Our two protagonists will surely expand the horizons of their everyday life and adventures in Japan and the dream world.

Finally, I’d like to give some words of thanks.

To my editor at Hobby Japan, who has been looking after this series. I’m ever so grateful for the various adjustments and support you’ve been providing.

To Yappen, thank you for your beautiful illustrations. This time, Yappen has drawn Mariabelle the half-fairy elf, Wridra, and a new character. I’ll do my best to express the characters you bring to life in your illustrations. Maybe I put a little too much effort into it, because it ended up thicker than volume two. (laughs) I will etch this volume into my memory as the one that was released in the first month of the Reiwa era.

And a very deep thank you to you, the readers. I hope to see you again in the next volume.