When I first wrote Endstone, I had an extensive backstory to give the characters depth. I wanted to drop into the middle of things. I’m finding now that that the backstory needs to be explored.
Truth be told, I almost rebooted Endstone this summer and started at the beginning with Kyri Thunderhead’s origin. Instead I opted to tell parallel stories. The main plot is Kyri and Colindra hunting for the missing Endstone. As they do this, the backstory is filled in via flashback segments. The flashback segments will tell a chronological story about how Jon became the rocker of the Banestone which will lead up to the opening scene where Kyri splits the Endstone at the Eternity Spire. The story will come full circle at this point and the climax of the tale will occur.
Granted, flashback is probably the worst possible format for a twice weekly webcomic because readers don’t absorb the story in one sitting. I realize that. Ultimately, this webcomic is an experiment on my part. It’s gone a lot farther than I ever dreamed and I will continue to do this comic because I’m interested in the characters and I want to keep developing them in some form or another.
I truly appreciate the feedback, Shadowydreamer. I really need to hear what people think so I can fine-tune my craft. 🙂
Come on, flashbacking is not so bad, and the way you tell the stories allow readers that missed all previous chapters to understand how things work and what’s going on, wich is very good. 😉
I’m going to reveal this because I’ve cut this story-line from the script due to time constraints:
Through arcane stone-craft, Drakyl created Vandric for the purpose of killing the Twilight Mistress, Kyri Thunderhead. Ironically, Vandric became Kyri’s protector. This info is going on the new cast page once I finish it.
I actually like how this comics story started some where in the middle and is filling in back story as it goes along. I’ve seen other webcomics do a bad job of using this method, where it becomes so convoluted as to be impossible to read, but I think here it is done really well. I think it’s paced nicely and keeps me interested in the characters. Since the entire setting itself is essentially a mystery that will get revealed over time I think it works having the characters be equally a mystery that is being revealed as we go along. If the story had started at the beginning of all these events I think it would feel too drawn out.
Thanks, Tal. 🙂 I live in fear of the plot becoming convoluted, so it’s good to hear you are able to follow the story.
And yes, one of the reasons I decided against a reboot was because, as you put it, the story would become drawn-out. For example I’d have to have a whole epic battle issue with Drakyl attacking the Temple of the Nuns of Zykron, but with flashbacks I can just use a one page montage. I can hit the high points without getting bogged down in detail. At least that’s the idea.
He kinda looks cool in this uniform LOL
*Knock knock*
“Who’s there?”
“Stone.”
“What Stone?”
“DRAGONSTONE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!” *breathes fire*
Ok, that was horrible. Please forgive me I had a very bad day.
Why dragging on a stone ?
*going into hiding*
The postman always rings twice. 😉
My God, it’s a Kevin Costner movie!
I’m soooo lost and confused.. 🙁
Hmmm…. I was afraid of that.
When I first wrote Endstone, I had an extensive backstory to give the characters depth. I wanted to drop into the middle of things. I’m finding now that that the backstory needs to be explored.
Truth be told, I almost rebooted Endstone this summer and started at the beginning with Kyri Thunderhead’s origin. Instead I opted to tell parallel stories. The main plot is Kyri and Colindra hunting for the missing Endstone. As they do this, the backstory is filled in via flashback segments. The flashback segments will tell a chronological story about how Jon became the rocker of the Banestone which will lead up to the opening scene where Kyri splits the Endstone at the Eternity Spire. The story will come full circle at this point and the climax of the tale will occur.
Granted, flashback is probably the worst possible format for a twice weekly webcomic because readers don’t absorb the story in one sitting. I realize that. Ultimately, this webcomic is an experiment on my part. It’s gone a lot farther than I ever dreamed and I will continue to do this comic because I’m interested in the characters and I want to keep developing them in some form or another.
I truly appreciate the feedback, Shadowydreamer. I really need to hear what people think so I can fine-tune my craft. 🙂
Come on, flashbacking is not so bad, and the way you tell the stories allow readers that missed all previous chapters to understand how things work and what’s going on, wich is very good. 😉
Cool. I’m glad it’s working for you. 🙂
I mostly just lost track that it was still in the flashback. 🙂 My ditzyness is no reflection on your ability!!
Still in flashback – all makes sense. 😀
I take all the blame. 🙂 I’ll try to be more clear on the flashbacks. Let me know again if things get confusing.
I wonder, by the way. Was this “my son” a mear “friendly speach”, or is Grim indeed Drakyl’s son ?
I’m going to reveal this because I’ve cut this story-line from the script due to time constraints:
Through arcane stone-craft, Drakyl created Vandric for the purpose of killing the Twilight Mistress, Kyri Thunderhead. Ironically, Vandric became Kyri’s protector. This info is going on the new cast page once I finish it.
I actually like how this comics story started some where in the middle and is filling in back story as it goes along. I’ve seen other webcomics do a bad job of using this method, where it becomes so convoluted as to be impossible to read, but I think here it is done really well. I think it’s paced nicely and keeps me interested in the characters. Since the entire setting itself is essentially a mystery that will get revealed over time I think it works having the characters be equally a mystery that is being revealed as we go along. If the story had started at the beginning of all these events I think it would feel too drawn out.
Thanks, Tal. 🙂 I live in fear of the plot becoming convoluted, so it’s good to hear you are able to follow the story.
And yes, one of the reasons I decided against a reboot was because, as you put it, the story would become drawn-out. For example I’d have to have a whole epic battle issue with Drakyl attacking the Temple of the Nuns of Zykron, but with flashbacks I can just use a one page montage. I can hit the high points without getting bogged down in detail. At least that’s the idea.
Thanks again for stoppin’ by.