I've seen some comments about the update schedule these past couple of days.
I'm opening a separate chapter to explain.
This isn't just my problem; it's an issue all authors aiming for recommendations face.
During this new book period, exceeding 200,000 characters means losing access to a stable, long-term exposure channel for authors wanting to get recommended for Sanjiang. It also affects other new book recommendations; without this new book tag, recommendations will be reduced.
If I update too quickly, I might get removed from the list by the third round. New books lack exposure, so how can I compete?
I hope everyone can understand.
Also, even though this is a separate chapter, the word count for the chapters these past few days has been around 4,300 characters. Authors who split their chapters into smaller ones publish two chapters to match the word count I publish in one.
I guarantee again that after the book goes on sale, the daily update will be at least 8,000 characters. While that's not super fast, I definitely won't be taking frequent breaks due to back pain.
As for when netizens say this book will be finished, I can only say it depends on the reception. If monthly votes and subscriptions are good, I can save the two hours I spend playing games each day and add an extra 2,000 characters. If it's even better, I can save time on cooking and entertainment, and add another 2,000 characters.
Regarding the pacing, the recruit company is important for the character's time as a soldier, but it won't be exaggerated to the point of having over a hundred chapters or hundreds of thousands of words.
I'm writing about firefighters to combine urban life with military service. There will be slice-of-life elements; my previous book was half commercial and half slice-of-life, so I'm confident in my ability to write daily life content.
But please don't rush me.
I also want to write more content, but there's always a rhythm, right? Is it realistic to have the protagonist receive a phone call to go on a date during the recruit company phase?
Let me talk about the story arcs.
Sometimes the story arcs can be a bit messy, jumping from one thing to another, and some people have asked about the main plot.
Actually, my idea is quite simple: the only main plot is time. Real time doesn't revolve around the protagonist. Every supporting character will change over time and do things. Therefore, I won't only feature parts that readers want to see. I believe that every event can have unexpected developments, and no one lives as a one-dimensional character following a script.
People with only one dimension are definitely faking it; human hearts are complex.
Of course, there will be a focus in the descriptions.
If you've spent two hours reading up to this point, it means you can probably accept it, so I won't try to dissuade you.
Every event will have its logic. If readers don't understand and feel it's chaotic, it's either because I haven't resolved it yet, or I've resolved it poorly.
It's entirely my responsibility. Feel free to criticize; maybe a critique will spark an idea for me.
Regarding chapter word count.
After the book goes on sale, I will adjust the chapter word count, but it probably won't be less than 3,000 characters.
Regarding bonus chapters.
For alliance leader contributions, I might add one or two, depending on my capacity.
For Silver... let's say 5 chapters. I'll deliver within a week. Anything more would be bragging.
I think I've explained everything, right?
So, monthly votes and subscriptions, comrades, you understand, right?
Please, please, please, please, please, please, please, please, please vote for monthly tickets!
Please, please, please, please, please, please, please, please, please, please follow the story!