Chapter 124: Brilliant, Simply Brilliant!
Because she is a woman and often works with female publishers, Sonoko's network predominantly consists of women, among whom is Tsukamoto Yakumo.
Tsukamoto Yakumo was originally an assistant to another manga artist. After leaving that position, she took on various freelance jobs to make a living.
In the manga industry, assistants often face such circumstances. Due to low wages, many assistants have to juggle multiple jobs simultaneously to get by.
Despite the low pay, they persist because they hope to learn the techniques and experience of manga artists, eventually leveraging those resources to debut as independent creators.
In recent years, with the expansion of the manga industry and the lowering of entry barriers, it has become increasingly difficult to attract assistants to work for lesser-known manga artists unless they offer a decent base salary.
Sonoko recognized Yuta's talent—not just his ability to create artwork that captivates readers, but also his exceptional storytelling skills and profound understanding of romantic themes.
Sonoko wasn't merely helping Yuta.
She also hoped that Yakumo could learn something valuable from working with him, creating a mutually beneficial situation for both parties.
The more connections one has, the more influence they wield, and Sonoko has established her own extensive network.
Yuta is now part of her network too.
Even if he changes publishers in the future, Sonoko could proudly claim to have been the editor of a bestselling manga artist, which is an impressive addition to her credentials.
Although Yuta already had a completed manuscript, he agreed to hire an editor primarily to hone his skills.
He believed that by gaining experience in this way, it would feel more natural when he eventually created and published his own works.
Additionally, manga assistants often take on household chores, which was something Yuta's home currently lacked help with.
"Can she do housework?" Yuta asked. Compared to artistic skills, this was a more pressing concern for him.
Sonoko paused, unsure about the answer. "I'm not certain about that, but she probably can. Let me contact her for you. Yakumo is a very quiet girl and doesn't talk much."
"Then I'll leave it to you, Miss Machida," Yuta said, expressing his gratitude. He felt fortunate to have such a dedicated and helpful editor by his side.
Sonoko didn't consider it a troublesome task. Someone like Yuta, who debuted with an entire novel brimming with bestseller potential, would attract attention wherever he went.
Not to mention a young author who has managed to produce two consecutive bestselling novels and maintains a prolific pace like a high-output machine!
No matter which publishing house Yuta joined, he would undoubtedly be a key talent nurtured by the company.
Sonoko, however, felt that she hadn't done enough for Yuta and hadn't fully realized her role as an editor.
Because Yuta could shine anywhere, it left Sonoko feeling that she hadn't contributed much to his success.
She didn't see herself as the mentor who discovered this rising star.
"You're too polite. I'll call Yakumo right now and ask for her opinion," Sonoko said, seeing that Yuta had agreed. She promptly began facilitating the partnership between the two.
Yuta nodded, waiting patiently.
It didn't take long for Sonoko to get through to Yakumo. After explaining Yuta's situation, she asked whether Yakumo was willing to become his assistant.
"Alright, that sounds good. Come to my place tomorrow, and we'll discuss the details," Sonoko said over the phone.
She gave Yuta a thumbs-up gesture, then smiled and asked on the call, "By the way, Yakumo, can you do housework?"
After hanging up the call, Sonoko smiled and informed Yuta, "I've asked, and Yakumo can do housework."
Yuta wasn't too concerned about this.
After all, anyone can do housework; it's just a matter of proficiency.
At the very least, pulling weeds or sweeping the yard doesn't require much skill.
"Miss Machida, I'm not very familiar with the manga industry. What is the usual arrangement for manga assistants?" Yuta asked.
Manga assistants help manga artists with their work.
Not only can they assist their idols in completing their projects, but they also have the opportunity to learn and receive guidance.
Many manga artists began their careers as assistants.
Sonoko replied, "I can't say for sure about pay, but generally, assistants working for popular manga artists earn around 500,000 to 600,000 yen per month. However, most assistants make less than half of that. Yuta, while you're currently a popular novelist, you could also be considered a semi-popular manga artist now."
Yuta's post-tax income last month was over 7 million yen, but that was from his novels.
"How much do top-tier manga artists earn per page?" Yuta asked, wanting to get a comparison to determine a fair payment.
Sonoko thought for a moment and said, "For top-tier artists, it's around 20,000 to 30,000 yen per page, while the best of the best earn between 50,000 to 100,000 yen per page. They can usually complete two pages a day. However, these artists mainly rely on royalties from compiled volumes and other revenue streams. Page fees are often distributed among their assistants, and these artists usually have more than one assistant."
"Then let's go with 400,000 yen a month," Yuta concluded. "There shouldn't be overtime here, and the working environment will be relatively relaxed without heavy tasks."
Sonoko considered this a generous offer.
Given Yakumo's limited experience, the pay would typically be much lower. Besides, Yakumo truly needed the opportunity to learn.
"So, will you meet Yakumo tomorrow?" she asked.
Yuta shook his head. "I'm quite busy these days, and there's no rush. If she doesn't have any urgent matters, she could help out at my place. I'm currently moving, so I need someone to help with housework."
Sonoko smiled wryly. "Alright, I'll inform Yakumo to head over."
After chatting a bit more, they wrapped up their conversation.
Later, when the editorial team reviewed the two volumes of manga Yuta had submitted, the chief editor quickly shared his verdict.
"This manga is bound to be a hit!"
The others agreed. While the art style initially seemed unconventional, they couldn't deny the exceptional control over the plot.
"The pacing in the panels is incredible, even though there's less text compared to a novel!" someone remarked.
"With August-sensei's level of narrative control and artistic skill, there's no concern about the story falling apart later. It's definitely worth pushing forward."
"Having two bestselling novels as a foundation, this manga will undoubtedly sell well. But this means August-sensei now has three entirely different styles of works!" another editor noted with amazement.
The president, a discerning and capable individual in his own right, studied the manga in his hands and exclaimed with heartfelt admiration, "Brilliant, absolutely brilliant! August-sensei is truly a genius!"
---------------
If you want to read 10 advance chapters ahead.
Visit my patreon: patreon.com/EggZy