KADOKAWA Corporation (Headquarters: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo; President and CEO: Takeshi Natsuno) will release on July 1st the 10th and final volume of the hugely popular light novel "The Girl Who Was Second Cutest in Class Became My Friend" (Author: Takata / Illustrations: Azuri Hinata) from Kadokawa Sneakers Bunko. To commemorate the conclusion of this series, we are releasing a collection of congratulatory comments from the talented production staff and a new commemorative illustration by Azuri Hinata! Furthermore, we will deliver details of commemorative projects to celebrate the finale, including a special goods fair starting today and an X (formerly Twitter) giveaway campaign where you can win signed copies. We will also announce future developments that fans won't want to miss, such as the publication of a short story collection, "Kuranika 10.5," this winter, and the launch of Takata-sensei's completely new romantic comedy. ■ Original Novel Volume 10 (Final Volume) Released Today! What Kind of "Family" Will They Find? The 10th and final volume of the original novel for the hugely popular series "The Girl Who Was Second Cutest in Class Became My Friend" is finally released today! The story moves to the university arc. While continuing their sweet relationship as university students, Umi and Maki will search for the perfect proposal as they seek to find their own form of "family." Please witness the future of their love with your own eyes! ■ Commemorative Comments from the Author and Cast Arrive to Celebrate the Finale! To commemorate the conclusion of this series, we have received heartfelt comments from the creators and cast who have brought the work to life. ◆ Author: Takata This marks the end of the original story. I was able to run this far thanks to everyone's support. However, looking at the series as a whole, the manga adaptation is just getting started, and I may write short stories or other works on future occasions, so please continue to support me. ...Also