Strike the Blood - Volume 14 - Chapter Aft

Afterword 

Before I knew it, five months had passed since the previous volume. It’s been a while. So there you have it, Strike the Blood, Vol. 14 has hit the shelves. 

This volume is the episode when the mysteries of The Cleansing are unraveled. The intrigue surrounding Itogami Island, the truth behind Meiga Itogami, and the many mysteries that have caused Kojou and his friends such anguish have now been dramatically exposed. As a result, a great turning point has arrived for a number of the dramatis personae, but I would be glad if you find these to be enjoyable changes. 

Personally, the biggest impression I had from this volume was Asagi’s “idol debut.” She’s a character who really does have the potential to become a star, but she doesn’t seem very cut out for it personality-wise, so I had fun imagining what it would be like to see her try to act the part of an idol. Also, I’m sure everyone who has read the main text already realizes this, but the story this time was a rather crucial one for Kojou and Yukina’s relationship. I have a sense that what the pair does won’t deviate all that much from the norm, but a certain object might hold significant meaning for them down the road. 

Beyond that, the other thing I can’t forget would have to be the other vampire scene. If you were excited to finally have a scene with a vampire other than Kojou (or if you went “What, you two?!”), I’m happy. 

I believe you are already aware of this, but a new drama CD and a new OVA are scheduled to go on sale right around the publication of this novel. I was very slightly a bit of a pest at the dubbing of the drama CD, but seeing the old cast brought back together and engaging in such passionate performances made for putting together an extremely fun piece of work, on top of doing their utmost to produce the recently completed OVA, just like what they did for the TV series. I believe that all the little details will live up to your expectations as supporting fans, so please, please, please go watch, listen, and enjoy. 

Also, a bit before this book goes on sale, the seventh volume of the comic version of Strike the Blood serialized in Monthly Dengeki Daioh will go on sale. In the latest publication, the combat scenes are, of course, thrilling, but La Folia is also extremely cute (and Yukina and the others, too). Definitely check it out. 

Now then, with the next volume, the first major part of Strike the Blood is scheduled to come to completion. I feel like the series itself will be continuing for a little while longer, but we can finally point to a definite dividing line. Please stay and watch all the characters’ exploits until the very end. 

As happens every time, Manyako was an enormous help with drawing beautiful illustrations for this work. Truly, thank you very much. And once again, I thank TATE-sensei, in charge of the comic version, for turning out such marvelous work. 

Also, allow me to thank each and every person related to the creation and publication of this work from the bottom of my heart. 

Of course, my most heartfelt thanks are reserved for all of you who have read this book. 

I very much hope to see you again next volume. 

Gakuto Mikumo