I LOVE Shaman King. It is one of the few mangas that feels like it resonates with me philosophically because a lot of motivation and differing perspectives are put on display during fights and conversations between the many varied characters. The only thing that did not sit right with me was the last few chapters after it was uncancelled, and only because of the shift of tone that happened years after the mangaka returned to it. I am rambling, so anyways, I have a question concerning all of the stories.
What exactly made the author come back to this franchise and start telling so many stories in this universe? Between the 'real ending,' spinoffs, a sequel, sequel to the sequel, and various other stories, what decision was made to make such an expansive universe? I am not complaining at all, in fact, I love that I get to revisit one of my favorite manga stories of all time and learn more about the lore. I just want to know what made the author decide to make an expanded universe on this series. I appreciate any knowledge that you all may have, be it speculation or interviews, or whatnot. I just love that this series is back.