Akitaka’s romantic comedy manga, Sumigomori no Sumijo Maō wa Saikyō Jūsha ni Koikogaremasu (The Charcoal Demon Queen Nestling in Charcoal is in Love with her Strongest Follower), has concluded its serialization in Square Enix’s Monthly Gangan Joker magazine. The final chapter was published in the May issue, which went on sale on April 22, 2025. This marks the end of a relatively short but charming series that began in January 2024.
A Heartwarming Story of Love and Acceptance
Sumigomori no Sumijo Maō wa Saikyō Jūsha ni Koikogaremasu tells the story of Sumi, a human student attending a magic academy. Due to a reflexive behavior that makes her isolate herself, she’s known as the “charcoal” girl. Despite her desire to connect with others, she struggles to overcome her tendency to withdraw.
Sumi’s life takes an unexpected turn when Gita, an emissary from the demon realm, arrives and asks her to become the Demon Queen. Unaccustomed to being in the spotlight and unsure of her ability to rule, Sumi is hesitant. However, Gita assures her that everything will be alright, giving her the confidence to embrace her new role. The story follows the budding romance between the demon queen and her devoted servant, as Sumi’s “heart of charcoal” begins to ignite with the warmth of love.
Akitaka’s Creative Journey
Akitaka launched Sumigomori no Sumijo Maō wa Saikyō Jūsha ni Koikogaremasu in Monthly Gangan Joker in January 2024. Square Enix published the first compiled book volume of the manga on August 21, 2024, and the second volume on November 21, 2024.
Before this series, Akitaka ended the Rokujō Hitoma no Majo Life (A Witch’s Life in a Six-Tatami Room) manga in June 2022, which also launched in Monthly Gangan Joker in February 2020. Square Enix published the manga’s fifth and final volume in August 2022. Akitaka also published a one-shot version of the manga in Monthly Gangan Joker in March 2019.
Other works by Akitaka include Urami Koi, Koi, Urami Koi, which ended in July 2019. Additionally, Akitaka contributed to the Umineko When They Cry manga, drawing the fifth episode (End of the Golden Witch).
List of Manga by Akitaka:
- Urami Koi, Koi, Urami Koi
- Rokujou Hitoma no Majo Life (A Witch’s Life in a Six-Tatami Room)
- Sumigomori no Sumijo Maō wa Saikyō Jūsha ni Koikogaremasu (The Charcoal Demon Queen Nestling in Charcoal is in Love with her Strongest Follower)
- Lycoris Recoil: Koushiki Comic Anthology – Reload (Story & Art)
- Umineko When They Cry (Fifth Episode)
What’s Next for Akitaka?
While there’s no official announcement regarding Akitaka’s next project, fans eagerly await news of their future works. Given Akitaka’s talent for crafting heartwarming and whimsical stories, they remain a notable figure in the romantic and fantasy manga genres.
Final Thoughts
Sumigomori no Sumijo Maō wa Saikyō Jūsha ni Koikogaremasu offered readers a delightful blend of fantasy, romance, and comedy. Although the series had a relatively short run, its unique premise and endearing characters left a lasting impression. The story explores themes of acceptance, overcoming personal challenges, and finding love in unexpected places. As the final chapter closes, fans can cherish the sweet and captivating journey of Sumi and her strongest follower.
