#glad people like it cause its one of my fave parts of the design :D

[periwinklemoonlight]

for those curious, my limited life scar design has always had a clock hand scar over his nose!! its usually just covered by his glasses :J

[nagisasstunningpersonality]

The Character As A Tool: Why Your Fave Doesn't Get More Screentime

Please refer to this post

REMINDER THAT ALL VIEWS HERE ARE MERELY MY OWN OPINIONS 

In truth, one of the most common complaints I see within this fandom is the treatment of side characters. Meaning, in short, a fair amount of the fandom are less connected to what’s going on with our main group of Nagisa, Karma, and Kayano, and instead relate to some of the less obvious choices. Now, there’s no problem with doing this. Hey, if you see something you like in a less important character, then absolutely go for it!

What We Do Know

I discovered for myself, whilst making my About Ass Class series posts, that absolutely some characters’ actual canon information is very dry. Matsui gives everyone a few bits here and there in both the Roll Call book and Graduation Album. If you’re lucky, there’s further points you can pick up just from watching/reading.

Now, and this I want to emphasise I’m stating as an opinion, Matsui actually gives us quite a lot to go from. Even if not every character is highly developed, there’s still a genuinely very solid starting block to go from with your own headcanon. Perhaps it can be argued that it’s not the reader’s job to supply that, but I’d counter that it’s actually kind of fun to not be fed every piece of information. Though more facts and a deeper dive into interpersonal relationships would be admittedly nice, I don’t think there’s anything wrong with us as a fandom coming up with those ideas on our own, using the pointers Matsui does give us as a starting point. Honestly it would take the fun out a little if there was too much information, and we’d have less possibilities to play with.

Why Certain Characters Exist

I’m sorry to tell you, but one of the first things you’re taught in any kind of writing or literature analysis class is that characters are not people, they’re tools. This may feel a little harsh to say, and I’m aware that many people get attached to characters and have genuine feelings towards them. And that is totally valid! Definitely not on the same scale, but I too enjoy when people have real emotions towards my OCs, so I get it.

(rest under cut) 

To put it plainly: characters exist within a story as either a plot tool, or a message tool. A plot tool is someone who, as it sounds, exists to move the story along. Characters that need to exist in order for the story to happen as it does. Now, don’t get me wrong, you don’t need to have planned this out. You don’t need to specifically introduce Hara, for example, for the sole reason of her upping the stakes in the first Itona/Shiro arc. Characters existing for filler is still, in a way, a plot tool. It’s like… you set up a chess board. Sure, you might use the knight or the queen piece the most, but the pawns are still an important and useful piece, even if you don’t always utilize it for every move, or they don’t always stand out. Message tools are when a character doesn’t really do anything, but they help to assist in the message you want to send with your art/writing. There’s not so many examples of this in ass class, the best I can think of is either Yuuji or Sakura, who don’t do much at all but are beacons for what Matsui wants to say with them (which if you think about it is just ‘don’t do drugs kids’ and ‘stay in school’ :’)).

So free bit of writing advice for you: your character is your chisel. Once you’ve picked them up and started to work at carving out the story you want, then you can start adding all your fancy upgrades and personality points, which is what ultimately makes your character stronger. You grow attached to them when you’re done? Totally fair. Just… don’t go through this process the opposite way.

Without going too in depth with them right now, Nagisa Shiota is a plot tool. He is a plain easy to follow narrator whose observation skills intentionally mean the reader can see things clearly through his eyes. Where he loses relatability is when he displays his talent, but at that point he’s been so clearly introduced that it doesn’t matter as much, we can hear his voice. Him being more plain makes his talent more effective and shocking as it is. Karma Akabane is a plot tool. He exists so we have those somewhat comedic moments, and so we can have these big bad ass mental/physical fight moments. I actually think him not being the protagonist is something that makes Ass Class hugely stronger (and less cliché) as a series. Kayano Kaede is a plot tool. Admittedly, less so, but she has a lot of function as a back up to Nagisa, and then later is the catalyst for Korosensei’s backstory. The story starts to come to its climax due to her arc alone. As an aside I think a lot of criticism for Matsui isn’t that fair within the fandom, but I will openly say his treatment of her post reveal was not the best at all. He kind of lost control of what to do with her.

So, let’s talk about archetypes. I intend to write a whole meta about why Ass Class is predominantly written as a comedy series, but for now just take that statement as my opinion. Honestly, I do think Ass Class, with a few tweaks, could have worked with a bunch of unnamed characters. I’m instantly going to follow that up with: I’m very glad it didn’t. I love that it feels more like a large ensemble with a variety of characters. So instead of just plain filler, Matsui kind of makes good use of archetypes. You know, such as Takebayashi and Fuwa as otakus, Hazama as the dark occult girl etc. etc. All of this for comedic purpose, more than anything, which we really see in something like Koro Q which is more directly comedy. You might argue this is one dimensional, and I’d agree, but in this situation it’s achieving an effect. It’s genuinely better than having nothing. And honestly, they all do stuff. Some characters are far more effective and entertaining as a background character (i.e. Terasaka) than carrying a bunch of weight themselves.

Matsui Actually Does This Comparatively Well

Honestly, try and name another popular series in a classroom setting, with this many characters who all have individual personalities. Genuinely, the only one I can kind of think of is BNHA, and that’s not a fair comparison given the difference in story length. Comparatively to most series, Ass Class actually has really good side characters. If they were completely uncaringly written, nobody would stan them as hard. For the most part, I’d certainly argue everyone is memorable. Given that we’re juggling at least 30 people here (including teachers, Gakushuu etc.), I’d actually argue that’s kind of impressive.

And the thing is, Matsui does care. He cares enough to give everyone designs, hobbies, and personalities. A good portion of them have an entire chapter to themselves, although relative to the story as a whole they might not do so much (example: Kimura). Matsui could have been lazy with it, but he was not. I don’t want to invalidate anyone’s feelings with this, but I do argue here that those who think the opposite might be a little wrapped up in the character they stan. And I can totally understand that rightfully, you want the character you love to have more screen time. However, just because you happened to fall in love with them (figuratively I mean), doesn’t change the purpose they were originally created to fulfil.

It’s an unfair criticism that not giving every single person a huge arc makes Matsui a poor writer. Honestly, if everyone was equal without a few main characters getting a greater amount of the attention, the entire series would be a hot mess. It might be fun to reimagine the series that way, and go ahead in your own time, but as a series from start to finish, as a first time consumer, it would be genuinely very hard to follow. Not without changing the entire structure and many many plot points.

I do intend to write more about this too at a later point (because I will admittedly need to do more research), but in my opinion the biggest issue with Ass Class, and the cause behind the problems I have with it, is the genuine lack of time. It’s a relatively short story, compared to a lot of manga, and thus there isn’t the space to contain everyone’s story in deep way. I’m absolutely certain, had there been 50/100 chapters more, every character would have had a stand out chapter to themselves.

So thus I bring up the fun and stimulation that is headcanon.

The Issue with headcanons

(this point will go much quicker, I promise)

Ass class ended a looong time ago, let’s be fair. Whether you’re newer or older to the fandom, there’s still been quite a while since any kind of new content (Korotan D being the last official piece, Koro Q manga being the last anything, though I could be slightly wrong with that). That means, especially if you’ve cared about this series for a while, that we’ve considered the series to death.

Playing with headcanons is great! It’s fun! But, I do fear that especially when it comes to perhaps the more popular of the minor characters, a lot of us are getting wrapped up. It needs to be kept in mind that whilst these headcanons may have been around for a while, they are not directly correct to the source material. As a quick note, since I have seen people within the fandom getting kind of bothered over opposing opinions to the things they assume as canon. That’s not really anybody’s fault, but it does warrant saying, I think.

A Conclusion

Basically, loving a main character is great. Loving a more background character is great. You’re not a better or worse, more intelligent or more basic person for whoever your fave is. The point is, you see something you like in a character and you relate to them, or else just enjoy them. But as fun as that is, characters are tools. They exist for a specific purpose. Sometimes, that purpose doesn’t warrant them having a huge stand out character arc.

But hey, that’s totally okay because we’re fortunate enough to have such a community (arguably, I’d say a genuinely active one too) where we can dream that up ourselves. We can pretty much endlessly explore these possibilities. So, perhaps instead of negativity complaining about certain narrative issues we find (just putting this here: it’s fair to do this, but I don’t think it should be the FOCUS of conversation), we focus on driving that energy into creation. And there’s a lot to play with and create. And honestly, seeing HC posts and all sorts staring these more minor characters is great, and I’m pretty sure the majority would agree with me on that. I fully realise and accept that I have a platform here, and going forward I personally want to be a part of that. In a constructive way, rather than ‘deconstructing’ (yes, there’s a pretty big different as I see it).

(I realise that this last part comes off a bit call out post like, and I want to ensure that it is not intended to be that. I just have a general sense of some attitudes towards things floating around in a very generalised way right now)

[franeridart]

Ahhh if you ever do feel like drawing BakuSero I would just about die because I love that rare pair soooooo much and there is next to nothing for it

Holy shit I thought I was literally shipping that ship by myself, but here you are, amazing !!!!!!!!!!!! Anyway don’t worry I’ll definitely draw something for it sooner or later anon, I love it way too much to never give in haha

Anon said:my day started out terrible but your sero and kaminari saved the day (like most of your drawings do) ty ily

!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I’m super glad to hear that!!!!!!! I hope the rest of your day will be as amazing as it can be, anon!!!

Anon said:A) why isn't it franswers? B) Kaminari has a habit of just watching (unbreakable) things just fall if he fails to catch it or it slips out of his hands. like he doesn’t move to get it, he just watches it fall with a blank face

A) that’s a great question that would deserve an equally great answer which sadly I don’t have??? like, why isn’t it franswers??? it should definitely be franswers t b h - B) yes and also I feel Kaminari a lot. Like, mood and also same. As usual hahaha

Anon said:I have never seen a more pure kamisero than the spiderman kiss. I have fallen into the ship and i cant get up (i dont wanna get up) thank you 💖💖💖

Thank you!!!!! Oh my gods!!!!!!!!!!!!! I’m so happy I could make you ship it omfg!!!!!! They’re such a cute underrated ship aaahhhhhhhhhhhh tho I feel like it’s getting more popular lately, which is A+++ :D

Anon said:Sero 's hair looks so fluffy in that first panel, you can't un-convince me whoever his boyfriend (s) is (are) wouldn't mindlessly run their fingers through it from time to time.

I love this headcanon???? But also consider, if his boyfriend is Kaminari, Sero’s hair is always super staticky once he’s stopped petting it. Like, his hair just sticks in every direction, it looks super funny. Or, his boyfriend is Bakugou (or his girlfriend is Mina! same scenario plays out) and Sero has to wash his hair after Bakugou/Mina is done because their hands are dangerous and having flammable hair isn’t much fun, Neither is having acid very slowly corroding his scalp Poor boy, three out of four of my fav partners for him are dangerous for his hair haha

Anon said:Spidey Sero is good Sero also I still love your chibi style ^^

Thank you!!!!!!!!!!! Holy smokesss!!!!!!! *O*

Anon said:Right, so first off, I l o v e your art. And I'm kinda mad that only just found out about you? Anyways, I was wondering if I could draw one of your fusions (specifically, the Kacchadeku one)? They're super cool and i really want to draw them myself? I'll give credit you your for making the designs 'n all that. It's been quite a while since you drew it so i was wondering if I could draw 'em. Other than that, keep up the good work!

I would prefer it if you guys could ask me for this kind of stuff off anon, tbh aaahhhhhhhhh but I guess I never said that anywhere so it’s fine this time around - it’s good by me! As long as it links back to me/the original post then it’s okay~

Anon said:holy hell your art is a gift from God,,, i shall ascend to the astral realm after seeing all this,,, i have seen all i need and it was on this one blog,,,

YOU ARE!!!! TOO NICE!!!!!! OH MY GODS!!!!!!!!!!! Thank you so much ( ;v;)

Anon said:it makes me really happy that you add mina into the bakusquad pics your draw thank you!!!!

!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! well, it’s not like I always draw the whole squad, but when I feel strong enough to then it’d feel wrong not adding her in too! She’s part of it too, after all haha

Anon said:Im so happy your back! And you killed me with that last post. BAKUGO IS SO BEAUTIFUL! And your art is even better than before! Did I mention how beautiful Bakugo is? Love you and wish you full health mode

I’M SO HAPPY YOU LIKED HIM!!!!!!!!!!! Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Anon said:I don't know if I'm the only one but I really love how in bnha they emphasize the fact that the kids are really just kids. Like on multiple occasions All Might and Aizawa remind themselves or others that they really are just 15 y/o kids who are trying their best to become heroes and help others. Compared to e.g. Haikyuu I feel like they don't seem like young teens like bnha characters even tho they're the same age (or even older). Good for Horikoshi to remind the readers every now and then.

You’re not the only one!! That’s one of my favorite things out of bnha and also one of the reasons why I’m such a fan of the adults of the series - not all of them, but most of the guardians have a great grasp on what they should expect out of kids and what they can ask of them and what they should instead keep them away from, which I appreciate a lot. And some of them (Aizawa, Toshinori from some point on, Bakugou’s parents, Fatgum to say some) have a great understanding of the kids they’re responsible for and make decisions based on what’s right while at the same time accomodating the kids’ aspirations and dreams, which is super amazing because it doesn’t negate the fact that even if they’re just kids they’re still people, you know? They talk to them and understand them and act as guardians without clipping their wings, you never see this sort of things in media tbh so I appreciate it a lot

Anon said:ok so I just need to get this off my chest. during the quirk apprehension test when aizawa said whoever came in last would be expelled, I think he would of actually done it. I mean he has done it before. but I think he saw potential in Izuku and that made him change his mind but I believe if it where someone else besides Izuku he would've expelled them. so I just wanna say that it was Izuku himself who made himself not be expelled not because of a bluff. and I love aizawa. the end

Yeah I’m sure that’s how it went! Well, I was about to say that maybe even if Izuku hadn’t been the last one Aizawa would have let the last one stay anyway since 1A is a pretty impressive class, but the 19th place was Mineta that time so honestly who knows. Maybe we were one step away from not having Mineta in the class and Izuku ruined it for us. Who knows. (lol)

Anon said:Ur art is so sweet and wholesome, like. Its legit. A friend of mine was following you since you were posting haikyuu and she started watching bnha when you started, and she got me into it from there by sending me your adorable fanart. "Keep an eye out for these 3!!" Then she sends me a giant stream of your BakuKiriKami art. You're great, it's ur fault that they're my # 1 ship above all. Also - have ya read the kiribaku fanfic 2AM Knows All Secrets? I feel like you'd like that one if ya havent.

Holy heck thank you!!!!!! This is such a nice ask !!!!!!!!!!!!!! Ahhh!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I’m glad I could make both you and your friend watch bnha, and I’m even more happy I could make you ship my ot3!!!! *O* and!!! yeah I’ve read it!!!!!! It’s such a cute fic tbh~ I loved it a lot

Anon said:FRAN THE CATS ARE BACK HOW HYPED ARE YOU!!!

VERY!!!!!! I hope their game is more !!! than the Karasuno one tbh haha

Anon said:hey fran! i love how bakugou and sharkishima using sign language to communicate, and i was wondering if i could use that idea for my own mermaid au

Sure thing, I’m glad you liked the idea enough to want to do that! If you could mention where you got the insp for at the top of the fic when you post it that’d be neat~

Anon said:did you ever watch/read Ao no exorcist? its really good

I used to follow the manga! Like, a real long time ago? I think I got up to when we found out that Yukio’s a demon too and then I sorta... dropped it... cause I just... couldn’t stand Shiemi at all... sorry - my faves used to be Shima and Izumo tho!!! I used to love them so much and I still miss them so much that sometimes I seriously consider picking the manga up again just for them hahaha

[comicteaparty]

October 21st-October 27th, 2019 CTP Archive

The archive for the Comic Tea Party week long chat that occurred from October 21st, 2019 to October 27th, 2019.  The chat focused on Unlikely Heroes by Azalea Ortega.

Featured Comment:

Chat:

RebelVampire

COMIC TEA PARTY- WEEK LONG BOOK CLUB START!

Hello and welcome everyone to Comic Tea Party’s Week Long Book Club~! This week we’ll be focusing on Unlikely Heroes by Azalea Ortega~! (http://unlikelyheroes.thecomicseries.com/)

You are free to read and comment about the comic all week at your own pace, so stop on by whenever it suits your schedule! Remember, though, that while we allow constructive criticism, our focus is to have fun and appreciate the comic. Below you will find four questions to get you started on the discussion. However, a new question will be posted and pinned everyday (between 12:01AM and 6AM PDT), so keep checking back for more! You have until October 27th to tell us all your wonderful thoughts! With that established, let’s get going on the reading and the chatting!

QUESTION 1. What has been your favorite scene in the comic so far? What specifically did you like about it?

QUESTION 2. Why do you think Allie’s world is mired with sexist attitudes towards women? Also, in light of that, what do you think of Allie’s dad’s choice to ignore those attitudes for the benefit of the town at one point? How will sexism continue to affect Allie?

RebelVampire

QUESTION 3. At the moment, who is your favorite character? What about that character earns them this favor?

QUESTION 4. What do you think the significance of the title is to the entire of the story? Why are the heroes to be focused on unlikely, and how do you think they’ll manage to become heroes in spite of that?

RebelVampire

QUESTION 5. What has been your favorite illustration in the comic so far? What specifically about it do you like?

QUESTION 6. How do you think the events in the story so far have affected Allie emotionally, especially in terms of growth? After becoming hero of the town, do you think Allie will be content to stay, or do you think she’ll want more adventure?(edited)

Delphina

Just finished the archive! I thought the celebration montage scene was very sweet and probably my favorite http://unlikelyheroes.thecomicseries.com/comics/140/

It seems like the story is just starting, so I assume we have yet to meet the other "unlikely heroes" but I'm curious if it's going to be more folks who are coming from underestimated or environments of discrimination.

Delphina

It's not hard to get me excited about lady paladins, but I really liked seeing Allie come out in the armor, and this is probably my favorite scene with her. http://unlikelyheroes.thecomicseries.com/comics/99/ She's definitely got the most development at this point. Her parents also seem sweet, supportive, and encouraging despite the overarching societal views of women of the land. It seems like Allie hadn't even really noticed that she'd been discriminated against for being female until someone mentioned it, which is interesting. Clearly the machisimo/idolization of the men of the land is pretty widespread if Lord Valerus was able to take advantage of it to the extent that he did, though. I wonder if it's just because she'd been more of a head-in-the-clouds girl before now or if there's some other factor in play. I'm glad at least in her own village she was able to be the hero. Hopefully the news will spread to other villages, and if Lord Valerus intends to continue his evildoings, they can get out a warning that the dude is bad news.

RebelVampire

1) My favorite scene so far has been the one where Allie heals someone at least and her dad is just "Well looks like you're a paladin." Despite the seriousness of the moment, I kind of found some levity in the line that was much appreciated, just cause it sounded like only just then did he remember being a paladin is a valid D&D class. But levity aside, I just think it was a positive development for Allie that felt earned after all the stuff that happened. 2) I feel like the attitudes just stem from ego, to be honest. Cause lots of people seem to be fine and have no issues with women. The only people who have in so far demonstrated this are a power hungry creep who probably feels superior to everyone and those guys who kept losing to Allie and needed something to blame cause of course it's totally not their fault or anything. As for Allie's dad's choice, I really liked how that's kind of this really gray issue. Cause fighting for equality and fighting for the many over the few are both good virtues. But when you have two good virtues, how do you pick one over the other? I personally lean more towards the dad's point of view, but at the same time, his lack of support was really lacking and that made me sad. I'm sure this will not be the first or last time Allie experiences sexism. However, I think she'll learn to turn it to her advantage, since opponents are easier to beat when they right you off as "just a girl."

3) My favorite character is probably Allie right now, if just for the fact she's had the most prominence and has already grown as a character. I'm interested to see her journey so far. 4) I feel the title is signifying that were going to be dealing with outcasts and those who don't fit the social norms. Like Allie, even if you don't count the fact she's a girl and there's clearly sexist attitudes in the world, even her dad told her she couldn't be a soldier and a healer. And yet she overcame that and became a Paladin. I think the other heroes will be in a similar vein, where their ambitions and dreams don't match up with what society tells them they're capable of. And that other features of their identity will make people judge them versus by their actual skills at first. And I think in each case they'll band together and prove them wrong through determination.

5) My fave illustration is probably the last panel on this page: http://unlikelyheroes.thecomicseries.com/comics/132/ I just really appreciate the effort that was put in here because this is a lot of characters to draw for one panel, and all the designs are really unique as well. It makes the town/village feel more lively because there are so many varied people living there. 6) Emotionally speaking, I feel like the events have given Allie a lot more confidence that she can actually use her skills. During the earlier parts of the story, I felt there was a disconnect. Like she knew she had the skills, but putting them to practical use when everyone was looking down on her was a different matter. And I think she's just overall gained the confidence to know that she can put her mind to it and achieve what she wants. However, I also think on the downside, she might have some slight over-confidence, since she's not taking a dangerous threat very seriously. XD So there may need some balance to be struck. As for Allie staying or going, I actually think she'd be content to stay. However, I think that threat will cause her to leave home, as to protect her town, she'll need to go beat up some bad guys who prefer to do their evil from long distance.

IzzyNinjaMaster

Aaah! All these answers are so good! I just want to thank you guys for really putting thought into your answers. It's very much so appreciated. Your insight into the different situations in the comic is incredible.

IzzyNinjaMaster

By the way, feel free to ask me questions about the comic. I'll do my best to answer without giving any spoilers.

RebelVampire

QUESTION 7. Which characters do you enjoy seeing interact the most? What about their dynamic interests you?

QUESTION 8. Will the attitude changes towards Allie in the town be temporary or permanent do you believe? Thematically, what do you think the sudden changes in attitude say about people’s general ability to change and what causes it?

snuffysam

I love the comic so far! I do wonder what Allie does now. Because, like, she could move on to bigger and better things (exploring the world as a paladin), but I really don't see any reason to leave home when they still need protection.

I think the change in attitude towards Allie is permanent, at least for now. ... that may be an oxymoron, but what I'm saying is - I think it's possible some outsider turns the town against Allie again, but I doubt it will happen naturally.

RebelVampire

QUESTION 9. What sorts of art or story details have you noticed in the way the comic is crafted that you think deserves attention?

QUESTION 10. Do you think Allie can excel as a paladin, or was Allie’s dad right in regards to it being better to choose one specialty? In what ways do you think Allie being a paladin might serve her better than being a soldier (besides the obvious)?

RebelVampire

7) I enjoy seeing Allie and her mom interact the most I think. I just enjoy its a positive, mother-daughter relationship. And honestly, I don't read enough comics that have that. So for me it's a nice break from what I usually read and just gives me warm fuzzies. 8) I think the attitude change towards Allie will be on a more permanent nature for the town. Cause you don't really brush something like that aside so easily. As for the thematic stuff, I do think this story shows how disaster can really change someone's perspective on what's important in life. I actually think there's a positive message here that at the end of the day, even if you hate your neighbor, you can come together if you try to overcome a mutual threat. And it's nice to see a story where attitudes can change once common ground it struck.

9) I've mentioned this a bit earlier, but I like the detail put into the character design. Like so many of the people are clearly just background characters, yet there's a lot of care to make sure everyone is fairly unique. And like I said in this chat earlier, that's a lot of effort but brings a really nice touch. 10) I think Allie can excel as a paladin, but I also think she's gonna struggle at first. Especially in this case cause her healing showed up in a moment of desperation. And without dedicated training there's no gurantee that she can just heal on command. And I think that will give her some amount of anxiety. I do think being a paladin is just better suited to Allie. Cause there's a good balance between methods of protection. And so rather than the benefit of abilities, I think there's a lot to be said about how Allie will emotionally benefit from being able to dedicate herself to her goals in every way that she wants. Plus, I imagine it'll give her an advantage if people just assume she's a soldier and then is like "wa bam healing powers."

IzzyNinjaMaster

By the way, new pages of the comic are up today!

RebelVampire

QUESTION 11. What do you think are this particular comic’s strengths? What do you think makes this comic unique? Please elaborate.

QUESTION 12. Do you think Runian can do anything to Allie from jail, or is Runian just bluffing? Also, who do you think Runian knows that makes him so assured he’ll get out of jail? What other consequences might there be for Allie’s actions?

RebelVampire

QUESTION 13. What are you most looking forward to in the comic? Also, do you have any final thoughts to share overall?

QUESTION 14. Given the comic’s description mentions other party members, what other sorts of characters do you think we’ll be seeing? In what ways do you think they’ll challenge Allie as a person, and why do you think they’ll join Allie’s team?(edited)

RebelVampire

11) I think the comic's strength is how it lives up to the title. While there are plenty of titles that do tackle themes of discrimination, "unlikeliness", and people's journeys overcoming, this come has a really special way of just integrating every moment comic with those themes. Like even small moments speak to this journey, so the ultimate triumphs so far really stick with you. 12) I 100% think Runian can do stuff to Allie from jail. Not necessarily personally, but I'm sure he can hire some people to go after her. Alas, money is the Achilles heel of prisons. It just takes one person willing to take a bribe. Given that Runian seems well-off and nobility to some degree, I'm sure he has friends in high places who are happy to rig things and get him as slap of a wrist punishment as they can. Who I can't say, but there's definitely a someone in the ranks. As for other consequences, I'm sure Allie has made her town a target, not just her. And I feel like that will be a hard pill to swallow since in an effort to save her town, she probably made the crosshairs on it bigger.

RebelVampire

13) I am looking forward most to meeting some of the other heroes and just finding out their general place in the world. It'll be interesting to see how they and Allie work together. 14) As for what other sorts of characters, I assume were at least gonna get a mage, probably one who has trouble with magic. I also feel like some of the other races are gonna be in there - like an orc or something. As for the second part of this question, I think they'll each challenge Allie to consider society in a bigger whole and realize that nope, there's a lot more problems than she realized and not all of it is physical threats. And I think she'll have to discover how to overcome societal pressures and values alongside each companion. Something to that nature.

RebelVampire

COMIC TEA PARTY- WEEK LONG BOOK CLUB END!

Thank you everyone so much for reading and chatting about Unlikely Heroes this week! Please also give a special thank you to Azalea Ortega for volunteering the comic and creating it! If you liked Unlikely Heroes, make sure to continue to support it via some of the links below!

Read and Comment: http://unlikelyheroes.thecomicseries.com/

Unlikely Hereos’ Twitter: https://twitter.com/unlikelyheroesc

[comicteaparty]

April 22nd-April 28th, 2019 CTP Archive

The archive for the Comic Tea Party week long chat that occurred from April 22nd, 2019 to April 28th, 2019.  The chat focused on Hexameron by Mikhail Shmidt & Eugenia Shmidt.

Featured Comment:

Chat:

RebelVampire

COMIC TEA PARTY- WEEK LONG BOOK CLUB START!

Hello and welcome everyone to Comic Tea Party’s Week Long Book Club~! This week we’ll be focusing on Hexameron by Mikhail Shmidt & Eugenia Shmidt~! (https://tapas.io/series/Hexameron)

You are free to read and comment about the comic all week at your own pace, so stop on by whenever it suits your schedule! Remember, though, that while we allow constructive criticism, our focus is to have fun and appreciate the comic. Below you will find four questions to get you started on the discussion. However, a new question will be posted and pinned everyday (between 12:01AM and 6AM PDT), so keep checking back for more! You have until April 28th to tell us all your wonderful thoughts! With that established, let’s get going on the reading and the chatting!

QUESTION 1. What has been your favorite scene in the comic so far? What specifically did you like about it?

QUESTION 2. Who or what do you think the “Eldritch Horror” was at the beginning of the story? Why do you think they gave the cube to Gil? What will happen when Gil completes the tasks given to him?

Kelheor

Hello, I'm Eugenia aka Kelheor, the artist for Hexameron, and we are here to answer all the possible questions

Delphina

Just gave it a read! I really admire how quick the pacing is between each story, it's really tight!

My favorite scenes are a tie between the scene with Summer building the strange mound thing (https://tapas.io/episode/1125654) and the kids summoning the Ladies in Black (https://tapas.io/episode/1273540). I really love when the artist gives a big roomy panel to let us soak in all the creepy details and really feel the atmosphere.

(I'm just taking everything at face value right now and assuming that's a legit Eldrich Horror coming to steal childrens' soul or open a dark dimension for other creatures to come out.)

Darkstrong

Hi, the writer of this whole thing speaking. The pacing is actually, a result of a limitation that we put on ourselves - four pages per story. Glad to hear that you like it. As for Eldritch guest, his motivation, if you even can call it a motivation, is not as simple. Or maybe much more simple, would more accurate. But that is something that will be addressed much further into the story.

RebelVampire

QUESTION 3. At the moment, who is your favorite character? What about that character earns them this favor?

QUESTION 4. Why do you think Gil and friends are being specifically targeted by the horrors? Is it because they’re actively seeking them out, or is something else going on? Alternatively, are they just unlucky?

RebelVampire

1) the scene i like the most is when summer is hugging the creepy rock and smiling. legit i think the crying in that scene sells it causes its pretty clear she subconsciously doesnt want to be there. and yet here she is being forced to hug the rock, so it really hits home what an awful death that would be if she hadnt been saved. 2) part of me wants to just assume ya know, eldritch stuff. probably trying to summon something terrible and was too lazy to get all the items themselves. thus, recruit gil cause why not. makes things easier. but on the otherhand, a part of me wants to assume the twist is it was james all along. cause its pretty convenient he had to leave camp right before the horrors suddenly started being real. going on the idea its not real though, i assume gil is gonna die anyway. like i feel like theres this ominous safety net the story is creating where nothing perma bad happens to anyone besides emotional scares. and i think that means the rug is gonna be pulled out from under us at some point.

3) Eugene cause Eugene is the only one i feel like has a good head on his shoulders. Handles things logically, is decently cautious. Therefore I'm picking him cause he seems the only one not being a dumb kid who says "whats the worst that could happen?" 4) I do think their targetting is just the fact that they're the ones seeking them out. That plus the fact that they are more open to the belief. Cause I think its partly their own half-hearted beliefs in the stories that make them more suseptible to the supernatural around them. Which is pretty common in stories where the supernatural can only affect people who actually believe in it. This would also explain why the horrors seem to be getting worse and more directly deadly; the more the kids investigate, the more belief they have in the things around them.

Delphina

Yeah, I also like Eugene. I think some of the other characters' personalities blend together, but he really stands out for me and has smart ideas like on the stairway to logically get out of bad situation.

Pavla is also fun, I'm looking forward to seeing more of her because she does NOT seem to be interested in ghosts and will gladly punch them in the face.

RebelVampire

yeah. pavla is a lot of the reason why i answer 4 the way i did cause that girl gives absolutely no damns about ghosts. and i can respect just punching your way out of a supernatural situation XD

Delphina

I definitely agree that their meddling is just making things worse, because they're sneaking out to forbidden places/doing rituals and getting the attention of these creatures that possibly would have just left them alone otherwise.

RebelVampire

yeah. especially with the candle ritual. thats legit just asking for it.

Darkstrong

I think I can too answer some questions without going into the spoiler zone. :D My favourite scene so far is definitely the summoning of the Ladies. The scene is dark and menacing, and I like how the design of the Ladies ended up.

My favourite character so far, it is hard to decide since I am writing them all and like all of them, but if I had to choose, I'd probably choose Zoe.

Kelheor

I am actually relieved to know that most people like Eugene that much, and not only because his t-shirts =) Except Zoe, he is not just the only character who doesn't care about supernatural things, put openly don't like a lot to be a part of these crazy events. When we were making that part in The Message chapter, where he is hurt and just wants to go back, I was afraid that people just won't understand the way he behaves. 1. I totally can choose a summoning of Ladies as my favourite scene too! But I'll probably go with the part where the kids ran away from Heartless Annie. I just wish there were a few more panels of how Summer is picking up the stick to smash her just to add more motion to the scene. 3. It's hard, but I would choose Jaeger, because he's just a small cowardly cricket, but will poke every strange thing with a stick =)(edited)

Delphina

Eugene's t-shirts are definitely great too!

RebelVampire

QUESTION 5. What has been your favorite illustration in the comic so far? What specifically about it do you like?

QUESTION 6. Why do you think so many of James’ stories about the camp are suddenly coming true? What do you think James might have to do with the events so far (if anything)?

RebelVampire

5) my fave illustration so far is actually probably the last panel in the right corner of this page https://tapas.io/episode/1197369 i really love how atmospheric both the ominous shadows and fog make the scene. i also like the shot choice with the characters having their backs to us and it being a bit farther away. i feel like it really expresses a sense of scale and hopelessness. plus, i appreciate any background that takes the time to make nice looking stairs. 6) This is the question where I'm going back to my James is the culprit theory. Cause I still stand by the fact him having to leave camp is extremely convenient for how much he gets mentioned. and as for why hed do it, cause he was tired of everyone mocking his stories. if he makes them real, then he can be mocked no longer. its fool proof.

Delphina

In general, I really love how the forest is rendered in the art, it's always so colorful and gorgeous! https://tapas.io/episode/1126672 https://tapas.io/episode/1305811

I don't think James is the culprit, but maybe he's passing along the information from some other darker force? Hard to say.

Darkstrong

Not to play the Ladies' card twice, I'd say that my favourite illustration is Annie's reaction to being smacked with a stick. The branch tentacles, huge mouth full of teeth,and Summer's paralyzed reaction.

@RebelVampire, I like the whole Stairs to Nowhere story. Sadly, I think we couldn't realize it completely the way I pictured it. It is really good hearing that someone finds it so expressive :)(edited)

RebelVampire

QUESTION 7. Which characters do you enjoy seeing interact the most? What about their dynamic interests you?

QUESTION 8. Of the creepy events presented so far, which one did you find the scariest? What about it made it so spooky for you?

RebelVampire

QUESTION 9. What sorts of art or story details have you noticed in the way the comic is crafted that you think deserves attention?

QUESTION 10. Why do you think the camp itself seems to have attracted so many supernatural events and tragic happenings? Are the original stories somewhat true, or are they coincidental? How does this change your thinking on scary stories you know?

RebelVampire

7) probably Gil and Summer just cause I think they're kind of at an adorable age together. Like old enough to think they know what theyre doing and know how to be adult, but young enough to legit have no clue. so to me their interactions have sort of a nostalgia of youth to them that make me remember what it was like to be a kid and always trying to act cool around other kids. 8) definitely the stone hugging one. Some of the others felt super avoidable if you played it smart or ya know, didnt do an ominous ritual. but the stone one? only luck saved their asses. and the idea of having to do something beyond your own free will creeps me out. and that panel of summer crying at her fate really gets to me. and just in general, it was the one event i felt they were in legit danger from of not their own accord. 9) the clothes. i really enjoy that they actually ya know, change clothes in the various scearios. like its so easy to get away with not changing a character's clothes, but this comic takes the time to do as such. and thats something i can respect and appreciate. plus, eugene gets the best shirts. 10) i assume the original stories are somewhat true. maybe not as supernatural-y or evil as what actually happened, but some basis. like the idea the one shack house place exists cause they were gonna expand the camp at some point. as to why the camp attracts the supernatural, idk. maybe its on a leyline, cause that usually is the plausible supernatural explanation. or its james' fault

Delphina

Regarding how the story is crafted, I think each section being intentionally 4 pages per story is an interesting writing decision and not one I usually see in webcomics (the default is to sprawl endlessly). It makes for a very fast-paced story and I definitely like that. I do find myself wishing there were more character moments so I can really connect with the characters who have more subtle personalities, since there are so many people to keep track of. But it's really cool to see how much the team is able to convey within a limited number of pages and being smart about how much time you spend on what.

I definitely agree that the one with the stone has a huge creep factor because they weren't actually poking their noses into something they shouldn't have been and it still got to Summer. (Also I feel bad that he had to knock his friend out to get her to stop, like damn, imagine having to render your buddy unconscious)

And yah, I think there's just spooky things in the wilderness a la Gravity Falls, and it was all fine and isolated until someone got the bright idea to build a camp there.

RebelVampire

this is a gravity falls sequel where the shack house they went to was actually the mystery shack and this is gravity falls after the town was abandoned.

i at least appreciate the humor where gil feigned ignorance to how she passed out XD some much needed comedy relief

Darkstrong

@RebelVampire, Gravity Falls actually had some influence on Hexameron's conception, at least on very early stages. It was much more of a comedy then. But it couldn't have been the shack, as everything is happening on the other coast of North America, and not even in USA.

Darkstrong

@Joichi, good to hear that :) Hope to hear some of your thoughts on the comic, too

Kelheor

5. My favourite illustration is laughing trio on the second page of Heatless https://m.tapas.io/episode/1161232 I think just because plot is so tight, we don't see much actual conversation and bonding between the kids, so I really appreciate this small touch of them just being without a care in the world. @RebelVampire and I especially thank you for noticing these stairs because god knows I was suffering drawing them :D @Delphina oh thank you! I'll tell you a secret, in the beginning I didn't know how to draw forest at all, just as the rest of background it was the first time I tried to draw any background whatsoever. It may sound strange, but I am still always forgetting what kind of forest are they running in.

Kelheor

7. Oh, it must be Peggy and Eugene? I actually don't know what will become of them later, but they make an awesome duo right now. Outside they are just so different, but then they do both enjoy some bad humour. 8. Definitely the Black Ladies episode! It's just a nightmare coming true. People are hating on Zoe in this episode, but come on, how frightened should she be!

Kelheor

@RebelVampire I actually wanted to make them a few more changes of clothes, but there are just so many stories to show them! Also I thought since they are kids in the camp, most of them won't actually care to wear the same clothes over and over. And we still have a few ideas for Eugene's shirts...

RebelVampire

QUESTION 11. What do you think are this particular comic’s strengths? What do you think makes this comic unique? Please elaborate.

QUESTION 12. Do you think any of the characters will die consider how dangerous things have gotten? If so, who? Also, do you feel Gil really is in danger from the Eldritch Horror given they told Gil he had six days or his life was forfeit?

Delphina

I think the character designs are very strong and the pacing is very unique. I love how expressive the characters get and they're just cute kids to look at (even when horrible things are happening to them)!

Ooooh, who's gonna die? Really anybody, but stab-in-the-dark guess, I'll say Jaeger because he seems the wimpiest and Zoe because she seems like the most gentle. Maybe Pavla too, but not without a fight.

RebelVampire

QUESTION 13. What are you most looking forward to in the comic? Also, do you have any final thoughts to share overall?

QUESTION 14. Overall, how do you think the supernatural experiences will affect the characters? Which character are you most looking forward to seeing changed by the experience and why?

RebelVampire

11) i think the comic's strengths lie in its use of setting. i think theres a real sense of nostalgia about camps and how all the spooky stuff happens at them. and i think this nostalgia really pulls you into the comic. not to mention the setting is beautifully illustrated and feels exactly like a camp too, selling the experience. 12) well i already proposed Gil and im still sticking with that. Gil is just treating the Eldritch Horror thing way too casually. i also second the vote for Zoe if anyone dies. she seems the most...cowardly of the group to put it mildly. and incapable of following instructions well. and that seems like itll come to bite her in the butt more and more 13) im looking forward to the eldritch horror's return cause i feel like thats when some serious stuff is really gonna start going down and will get some answers along with more questions. but overally i think its gonna be a surprising and worthwhile experience. 14) Assuming no one dies, heres definitely gonna be some deep emotional scars at the end of the experiences. Especially I think for Zoe. Zoe is gonna be the one most likely in need of therapy if she lives through everything. The character I'm most looking forward to see change is Jaeger I think cause these experiences are really gonna shape him. and they could either go positively and make him braver or they could go badly and hell become a shut in who just plays mmos all day.

RebelVampire

COMIC TEA PARTY- WEEK LONG BOOK CLUB END!

Thank you everyone so much for reading and chatting about Hexameron this week! Please also give a special thank you to Mikhail Shmidt & Eugenia Shmidt for volunteering the comic and creating it! If you liked Hexameron, make sure to continue to support it via some of the links below!

Read and Comment: https://tapas.io/series/Hexameron

Hexameron’s Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/Kelheor

Eugenia’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/eugenia_Kelheor