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In a surprising announcement, Sou Hajikano, author of the light novel series "Kare to Kanojo no Business Plan - His and Her Business Plans," revealed that the series will end after the second volume. This decision comes directly from Hajikano himself, not the publisher Gagaga Bunko. He emphasized the importance of maintaining story quality over commercial considerations.
The Premise of "His and Her Business Plans"
The story follows Ina Tamaki, a bright and ambitious novice in business management. She joins the World Business Foundation (WBF) to pursue her ideal "business world." Paired with Sei Makoto, a consulting genius known as the "success contractor," Ina must navigate a world of prodigious young entrepreneurs. As a newcomer, her strategy relies on leveraging relationships cleverly. This setup creates a tense and unpredictable competition.
Reasons Behind the Series Suspension
Hajikano thanked readers for their support and explained his decision. Despite plans for a long-form story, low popularity and sales made continuing difficult. He worried that forcing the series forward could result in a rushed ending. Such a conclusion might compromise character development and plot consistency. Therefore, stopping now preserves the story’s integrity.
Even if the publisher had wanted to continue, Hajikano chose to pause. He hopes to revisit the series in the future and complete it properly. By doing so, he can maintain narrative coherence and respect his audience.
The Competitive Landscape of Japanese Light Novels
The Japanese light novel market is extremely competitive, with new releases every month. Hajikano acknowledged the difficulty of standing out. Furthermore, he expressed a desire to create works that reach a wider audience in the future. This situation reflects the pressure on authors to balance creativity with market demands.
A Snapshot of Reader Reactions
Fans expressed mixed emotions. Many were disappointed but understood Hajikano’s decision. Some noted the challenge for non-isekai stories in a market dominated by a single genre. Others praised the author for prioritizing story quality. Overall, readers appreciated Hajikano’s transparency and care for his narrative and audience.
What's Next for Sou Hajikano?
Looking ahead, Hajikano plans to develop new works that engage a broader audience without compromising storytelling standards. His choice sets an example for other authors. It shows that maintaining creative vision and quality can take priority over commercial pressure. Fans can look forward to future releases that reflect both ambition and market awareness.
The Enduring Legacy of "His and Her Business Plans"
Even though the series ends prematurely, Hajikano’s decision protects the integrity of his characters and plot. It emphasizes the value of quality storytelling in the light novel industry. His move may inspire other authors to prioritize narrative completeness over forced continuation. Ultimately, the series stands as a testament to Hajikano’s dedication to his craft and his readers.
