Otaku Translation: Absolute Number One C116

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Chapter 116: A Gift

While Chihara Rinto’s romantic life had taken a slight dip, his career was soaring like a wild donkey galloping across an open plain. Hanzawa Naoki was a juggernaut, its momentum seemingly unstoppable. In less than a month, the show’s ratings had skyrocketed to staggering heights.

Episode seven averaged a 32.9% rating, peaking at 36.2%. Episode eight climbed further, averaging 35% with a peak of 39.2%. By episode nine, the numbers reached an impressive 37.7% average and an astonishing 43.23% peak. What truly set these figures apart, however, was the viewing share—84%. This meant that nearly all viewers in the same time slot were tuning into Hanzawa Naoki, leaving competitors virtually invisible.

No one felt sorry for those unfortunate enough to compete against such a phenomenon. Critics and media outlets were too busy speculating about whether this would become the next super-national hit to surpass 40% ratings—a feat not seen since the legendary 1988 historical drama Mito Komon, which held the record at 42.7%. Few doubted Hanzawa Naoki could break the 40% barrier; after all, season finales often saw dramatic spikes. But breaking the record? That question sparked heated debates across the industry.

Amidst the buzz, Chihara paid no heed to the noise. He remained focused on work. By the first weekend of September, filming for the main series had wrapped up, and the special episode (SP) was ready for editing. As the cast and crew celebrated with applause, Chihara found himself in a rare moment of uncertainty. With work temporarily paused, he wondered what to do next.

In this foreign land, solitude had been a constant companion. Work filled most of his days, but beyond it, he struggled to find purpose or direction. Still, there was no time to dwell. The wrap-up ceremony proceeded as planned. Chihara led the team in thanking the cameras before dismantling sets and sealing away equipment. There were no immediate plans for a second season—it was clear everyone needed rest after nearly three grueling months without a break. If they pushed any harder, someone might have collapsed.

The crew began dispersing for their vacations, awaiting the final ratings announcement before gathering again for a celebratory feast. Meanwhile, Chihara returned to his office to strategize for the coming quarter. Barely two hours had passed when Shiga Ayumu called.

“Chihara-sensei, do you have a moment?” Shiga asked cheerfully.

“Yes, Director Shiga. What do you need?” Chihara replied, multitasking between helping his hapless apprentice to level up and brainstorming new scripts.

“Nothing,” Shiga chuckled. “I just wanted to send you a gift. Since you’re free, that’s great!”

Before Chihara could respond, the line went dead. Perplexed, he stared at the phone. A gift? Could it be some exotic pufferfish delicacy?

Moments later, Murakami Iori entered with two visitors: senior employees from Yukinoshita Publishing, Yasuda Ko and Obata Yuto. After introductions, Chihara learned the nature of their visit.

“You want to publish Hanzawa Naoki?” he asked, genuinely surprised. Adapting TV dramas back into novels was uncommon.

Yasuda, dressed sharply in a suit, handed over a document. “Here are the market research figures, Chihara-sensei. Many readers have expressed interest in purchasing a novelization of Hanzawa Naoki. We believe this partnership benefits both parties, so we came directly to discuss it with you, per Director Shiga’s suggestion.”

Obata, older and more seasoned, added, “To clarify, we’re part of the Nikkei Group, making us practically family. Entrusting this project to us ensures better terms than outsourcing. And with Director Shiga’s blessing, we’ll offer you the best deal possible.”

Chihara glanced at Murakami, puzzled. “Is this feasible? Don’t the rights belong to Kanto United TV now?”

Murakami smiled. “The copyright remains yours. Director Shiga has already arranged for literary adaptation rights to stay with you. You’re free to use them as you wish, and all proceeds will go directly to you.”

Chihara blinked, realization dawning. This was indeed a gift. Shiga must’ve been worried about losing him to bigger offers, hence sweetening the pot. Though Chihara had no intention of leaving yet, the gesture was generous—and lucrative. If successful, this could mean a substantial windfall.

Writing books in Japan was notoriously profitable. Take Murakami Haruki, for example, who lived abroad ostensibly to focus on writing but likely to avoid taxes. Under Japanese law, prolonged residence overseas exempted individuals from domestic taxation. Such avoidance hinted at staggering royalty earnings.

Of course, adapting a screenplay into a novel wasn’t straightforward. Readers might balk at the format, but legally, once published, royalties were guaranteed regardless of sales. Essentially, handing over the manuscript equated to securing income. It was a brilliant move by Shiga—a bonus tied to the show’s success.

Chihara’s respect for Shiga soared. Desperate for funds, he welcomed the opportunity. He retrieved the literary script and handed it over. “Would revising this for publication work?”

Yasuda and Obata eagerly pored over the pages, discussing quietly for half an hour. Finally, Obata spoke. “It’s solid, though a bit concise. Some expansion and refinement would help, but if you trust us, we can handle it.”

Yukinoshiita Publishing, a major player, had ample resources and editors. They envisioned strong demand due to Japanese tax incentives encouraging book purchases. High-income earners, including many fans of Hanzawa Naoki, often bought books to offset taxes. Selling copies seemed promising.

With minimal effort required on his part, Chihara agreed enthusiastically. “Great. I’ll retain final approval rights, though. Regarding royalties…”

Yasuda nodded. “Typically, secondary publications earn 8-10%. Let’s go with the maximum: 10%.”

Unfamiliar with publishing norms, Chihara turned to Murakami, who promptly interjected. “I recall Mami Yoko-sensei receives 14%…”

“Her debut work commanded higher rates,” Yasuda countered. “Since Hanzawa Naoki is effectively a reprint, standard practice dictates lower percentages.”

“That’s unfair,” Murakami argued. “This adaptation introduces entirely new audiences thanks to the show’s popularity. Ten percent is too low.”

A spirited negotiation ensued. Ultimately, they settled on 11.5%, with an initial print run of 15,000 copies. Further reprints depended on sales performance.

As discussions concluded, Chihara mentally calculated potential earnings. At ¥3,000 per copy, the first edition alone promised nearly ¥5.2 million. Additional prints could multiply that figure significantly.

Shiga’s strategy was masterful. Starting at five million yen, the payout could reach tens of millions. Moreover, the implication was clear: stay with Kanto United TV, and future adaptations would remain under his control.

Once formal contracts were drafted and signed, guests departed, leaving Murakami to congratulate him. “Looks like you’ve struck gold, Chihara.”

“Drinks are on me!” Chihara grinned. “Seems Director Shiga fears losing us. Did he mention anything to you?”

“He mentioned extending our contracts,” Murakami admitted. Their current one-year agreement reflected cautious optimism initially. Now, six months in, Shiga sought longer commitments.

Chihara understood the reasoning. Still, he couldn’t shake the worry that corporate rivalries might drag him into unnecessary conflicts. For now, there was no need to rush.

He chuckled. “No rush. Let’s just wait and see.”

Murakami had no objections. After all, she would follow Chihara anyway. And besides, waiting for the other party to make the first move would likely drive the price higher. Satisfied there was nothing more for her to do, she glanced around and got up to leave.

“By the way, Shiraki-kun contributed to the literary script,” Chihara added. “What percentage of royalties should I allocate to him?”

Murakami raised an eyebrow. “Is that necessary?”

“Absolutely. He’s the co-author.” Chihara valued collaboration and feared discouraging future assistance. “But how much feels appropriate?”

“He earns a salary for supporting your work,” Murakami reasoned. “Still, if you feel compelled, consider paying him extra based on word count. Magazines typically pay ¥5,000 per 350-character sheet.”

After reflection, Chihara decided. “If sales perform well, I’ll give him 1% royalties. Otherwise, I’ll compensate based on word count.”

Murakami approved. “Your money, your call. Just remember: invest in a decent suit soon—you’ll need it.”

Chihara frowned. “For what occasion?”

Murakami sighed. Despite his high salary, Chihara’s wardrobe remained limited. “Star Awards nominations are likely. Dress appropriately. You represent the entire production team!”

Chihara realized she was right. His first award nomination loomed ahead—a milestone worth preparing for.

The translation of the entire book is nearly complete, with roughly only 10 chapters remaining.

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