This article was originally published on March 22, 2024.
Welcome back to part 2 of our interview with Saori Otoha! Let’s jump right in where we left off!
If you missed part 1, you can read it right here!
Sera is based on your daughter…?!
――Who’s your favorite character?
Otoha:
I think everyone likes her, but Kaho! She’s a realistic depiction of a modern girl. In the original novel, Kaho doesn’t show up much in the early stages, but with permission from Renkinou-sensei, we have been able to use her a lot. A friendly, realistic character like her is really easy to put to good use.
――How about the main character, Jin?
Otoha:
Jin is a grown man, so there are some parts that are difficult to express. He always takes a grown-up approach to things, but drawing that too plainly makes him seem a little cold. As there are also romantic comedy elements, I tried really hard not to make him seem like an unfeeling guy.
――And opposite of Jin, Sera is so innocent, like a child.
Otoha:
I drew Sera while thinking about what makes girls cute. I had only drawn guys playing sports and tried to get across how cool they were before, so it was a nice change of pace to draw a character practically overflowing with cute, girly elements.
――After Sera is transported to the modern world, she gets to try a lot of new things. Her awestruck expressions during those moments are wonderful – how do you capture those cute expressions?
Otoha:
The expression Sera makes when she discovers something new is based on the expressions of my almost 5-year-old daughter. Until recently, my daughter was in her “why” phase, and would ask “what is that” about everything. I realized that Sera ended up looking like her [laughs]. My daughter’s “why” phase is over now, but I still pay close attention to what kind of expressions my kids make when they try something new.
Being a working parent is tough!
――It must be pretty tough taking care of your family while drawing a serialization.
Otoha:
It really is. Kids are especially prone to getting sick. When I am taking care of my kids, I can’t really get much work done, and I’ve definitely called my editor more than once or twice to let them know I won’t be able to make the deadline.
Editor N:
Even in the middle of all that, you still deliver very high-quality work, which is a huge help!
Otoha:
Recently, my daughter has started to understand my job. I’ve even drawn her pictures of Sera as a present. Until very recently, she thought my job was just “drawing pictures for fun” [laughs]. Kids grow up so fast.
Look forward to more cute and sexy moments from Sera!
――During your serialization, what was something that made it feel real to you?
Otoha:
I think there are a lot of people who love these characters, even more than I imagined. I believe this goes for all manga artists, but the thought of having your series cancelled at the start is quite scary. You have a lot of love for your own characters, so of course you want to be able to draw them for as long as possible. The characters in “Female Knight” are held dear by my editor, my assistant, and the readers, which makes me very happy.
――What scene or point would you like people to pay attention to?
Otoha:
Everyone already enjoys Sera’s ever-changing expressions, so I want to expand my repertoire in that regard. Her cuteness is in development, so I would like it if everyone could pay attention as she grows even cuter. I always want to draw a Sera who’s a little more grown-up and sexy!
――Are there any manga you’re following at the moment?
Otoha:
The Fragrant Flower Blooms with Dignity by Saka Mikami. The characters are so sweet and adorable. Also, the way Mikami-sensei carefully plans her panels out is really incredible for a weekly serialization. I read with a lot of respect for her craft.
――And finally, a message for the readers!
Otoha:
Thank you so much for reading! I’d be happy if, when you have a bad day or you’re feeling tired, you let the adorable Sera and friends’ relaxing countryside life soothe your weary soul a little. I hope you continue to support us!
And that’s all, folks! Thanks for joining us. Stay tuned for more articles coming your way!
Read All My Neighbors are Convinced the Female Knight from My Rice Field Is My Wife here!
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