[FROZEN TEARDROP] Volume.01 (Complete)

With Endless Waltz out of the way, it's finally time to transition to Frozen Teardrop! While I would've started this on the first of November, I'm sadly going to be out of the country then (and I can't exactly work well from a cruise ship with wonky internet connectivity). So, this first volume will cover now until December when the second volume drops. There's an interesting interview that sets up this project from Sumizawa that I think clarifies a lot of things, though in hindsight he seems to have strayed from his initial vision (which I feel may have come from those above). I do hope that everyone enjoys reading this.

ABOUT THE FIRST VOLUME

Decades after the events of the TV series, Heero Yuy sleeps in stasis within the Princess Aurora cryogenic capsule. As Master Chang (Chang WuFei), Father Maxwell (Duo), and their allies work to reawaken him for the mysterious Operation Mythos, forgotten memories of the After Colony era resurface, unveiling long-buried truths. From Katsuyuki Sumizawa, the mind behind the original Gundam Wing series, comes a new chapter in this beloved saga. The first volume of this highly anticipated continuation promises to shed new light on familiar heroes and past events, drawing readers back into the complex world of Gundams and political intrigue.

INTERVIEW WITH SUMIZAWA

――When did you first conceive the idea for Frozen Teardrop?

Sumizawa: The seed was planted over a decade ago when I was approached to write a novel called Gundam W Endlich Heroica. The outline was already taking shape - a tale of Treize reflecting on that era, told from his perspective. It was all set to become a full-fledged story. However, I was quite sensitive back then and felt my writing skills weren't up to par. So, the project was shelved, incomplete. As the years passed, I've grown a bit... let's say, less anxious, in a good way. My novel-writing technique has also improved somewhat. That's when I thought, "Why not give this another shot?"

――So, the story was meant to unfold from Treize's viewpoint?

Sumizawa: That was certainly one option on the table. But I felt compelled to introduce fresh developments. We decided to use Endlich Heroica as a foundation and build upon it with new storylines.

――A decade-long project finally coming to fruition, isn't it?

Sumizawa: Initially, I considered adding the Endlich Heroica story when the paperback edition of Endless Waltz was set to release. But when I added up the sheer volume of text, it became clear it would span over five books. The original Gundam W novel series was five volumes long - it didn't seem right for an OVA novel to outstrip the main story (laughs). So, once again, it was put on hold.

――In that case, it's not just a decade-long project, but Endlich Heroica finally seeing the light of day!

Sumizawa: That's a bit of an exaggeration (laughs). It's merely the inspiration. This work is Frozen Teardrop, after all.

――I apologize for getting carried away. But since the source material is a story depicting the world of Gundam Wing through Treize's eyes, I assume we'll see the five Gundam pilots, Relena, and others?

Sumizawa: I can't divulge specifics to avoid spoilers, but logically speaking, that would be the case. The prologue features familiar faces and characters that might make you think, "Could this be who I think it is?"

――That sounds exciting! What does it mean to you, to express the world of Gundam Wing in novel form?

Sumizawa: Among all the works I've been involved with, Gundam Wing stands out as one where I feel there's still more to do, more to write. Even after 15 years, that sense of unfinished business hasn't cooled. It's a work I'm not entirely satisfied with yet.

――So this novel will be infused with those lingering feelings?

Sumizawa: Indeed. While I won't be making any dramatic changes to the history established in the TV series, I aim to present my interpretations from multiple angles. It's about expanding on what's already there, rather than rewriting it.

――Is there anything you're particularly mindful of as you write?

Sumizawa: The fact that Gundam Wing ended 15 years ago is always at the forefront of my mind.

――Could you elaborate on that?

Sumizawa: I was born in 1961, 16 years after the end of World War II. By then, Japan was in its high-growth period, and the war felt like ancient history. Just 16 years, and yet it seemed so distant. Now, consider that 15 or 16 years is actually a long time. When Gundam Wing first aired, for those who discovered Gundam through it, the original series must have seemed like a relic from a bygone era. Yet only 15 years separated them. I believe Frozen Teardrop exists in a similar context. For the generation that started with Gundam Unicorn, Gundam Wing is a 15-year-old series - practically ancient history to them. So, I'm writing with that in mind, trying to create something that can be understood and resonated with by younger generations who might be experiencing Wing for the first time.

――Do you feel any pressure?

Sumizawa: Since this project stems from that feeling of unfinished business, I wouldn't say I feel much pressure. However, given that the story will jump between the past, AC-195, and the future, I'm committed to expressing everything clearly so readers can follow along without getting lost.

――What's your vision for the new mobile suits appearing in this novel?

Sumizawa: I'm aiming to emphasize their military aspect more strongly. Since I lack expertise in this area, I'm relying heavily on support from various individuals. As for naming, I'm striving to capture that distinctive Gundam Wing flair. For specifications and performance, I'm hoping to strike a balance between science fiction and realism.

――How do you want Gundam Wing fans to approach this work?

Sumizawa: For those who've watched Wing multiple times, I believe this will be a deeply enjoyable experience. The prologue touches on a new "changing of the guard" and events in AC-196 - seasoned fans will likely recognize the significance of Master Chang and Father Maxwell. There might be subtle mysteries that only those familiar with the world will catch. Why did we transition to the MC era? How does it connect to AC? I hope readers will ponder these questions. For those new to Wing, I'd encourage watching the DVDs first - it'll enhance your appreciation of the novel.

――Could you share your enthusiasm for the project?

Sumizawa: I'm exploring how to revive something that had a satisfying conclusion, while considering why sequels often struggle. This isn't a conventional sequel, but rather an experimental novel - a stepping stone towards creating a successful continuation. It's an attempt to elevate W closer to the caliber of the original Gundam. I apologize, I earlier said I didn't feel pressure, but voicing my ambitions has made me a bit queasy (laughs).

――Lastly, do you have a message for the readers?

Sumizawa: Once, Zechs said, "You really don’t have to stick around with me." But Noin replied, "I've been waiting all this time... and I simply can’t wait any longer." She chose to stand by Zechs. All I can hope is that when I, like Zechs, express doubt, you, the readers, will respond like Noin. I humbly ask for your support!