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Thread: The Neutrals
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2009-06-28, 08:26 PM (ISO 8601)
- Join Date
- Nov 2008
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- :noitacoL
The Neutrals: If it's popcicle it's possible!
FAQ:
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Q: Who are you?
A: Belkar=awsome.
Q: What drawing program do you use?
A: Inkscape.
Q: Are you stalking the_Q?
A: No, I just love his comics.
Q: What is your MitD?
A: More of a pitd, really, a Person in the Dark. For plot purposes, I can't tell you what he looks like, but I CAN tell you he's an elf.
Q: Why does this comic suck?
A: If you think it sucks, stop reading it.
Q: What's the difference between the different evil characters?
A: Well, obviously, you'll notice that the Pitd is a bit smarter than the rest, and obsessed with a blue haired elf for some reasons.
Red: Sam has no arms, and is the only boy in the group (unless the pitd is a boy, which I cannot vouch for nor deny at this point, though I know the answer.) He is the most idiotic, which is saying something. He's a bard, and uses psychic powers to play his electric guitar.
Orange: Sarah is a blunt, unlikable Elven Cleric, who goes beyond evil into the realms of intensly ANNOYING. She hates Sandy for reasons known only to herself.
Yellow: Sandy is the least likable person on the team by a large margin, which is saying something. She is a human wizard, and severly hated by an insanely large number of people, on and off her team, dead and alive, and regardless of some of them being fictional.
Green: We haven't met Sal yet, but she can be seen in the banner. She is a human archer, and a pretty darn good one at that. The most likable person on team evil and the neutrals' biggest threat, we'll be seeing her in the future.
Blue: Although she hasn't appeared in a strip yet since she joined team evil, she is in one of the old strips...if you look closely. Look in the banner for what to look for.
The Comic
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001
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008
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Comic #009: Please don't read this, god only knows I didn't want to write it.
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Comic #010: The comic everyone's so worked up about.
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Comic #011: As Elan would say: "Dun Dun Duuuuuuun!"
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Comic #012: And here we see Samantha smile for the first time.
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Comic #013: It's certainly unlucky for the belhop.
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Comic #014: Deep Questions
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Comic #015: Let's just hope he doesn't try to hold her hand...
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Comic #016: A very appropriate song choice
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Comic #17: Just to remind you that somebody is telling the story
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The Banners
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[IMG]http://img57.imageshack.us/img57/7564/banner2vnm.png[/IMG]
[IMG]http://img268.imageshack.us/img268/4292/banner1rxm.png[/IMG]
The Characters
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Team Evil
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The Person in the Dark (Pitd)
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Not much is known about the Pitd. It's gender and alignment are mysteries, although Sarah has nicknamed it 'Devin' for easier conversations. It is smart, and obsessed with Em for reasons currently unknown. More will come to light about this creature later, but for now I'll just tell you this: it's an elf.
Sam: Human Bard
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Although early misfortunes in life (like say, not being able to outrun an angry mob after you kill all the babies in your local daycare, and not being able to outrun a different angry mob when you kill all the children in your local orphanage) have left him without arms or (*AHEM*), he still manages to play music. He is on team evil, helping the pitd obtain a ring of immense power. He is the least intelligent of the group.
Sarah: Elven Cleric
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Not content with being evil, Sarah is also the epitome of everything rude, obnoxious, and downright godsd*** ANNOYING. She is hated by everyone in her team, not in her team, and even some people who have never actually met her, but Team Evil puts up with her anyway. She hates Sandy for reasons known only to herself.
Sandy: Human Wizard
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Smug and overconfident, Sandy is utterly unlikable. A lot of people would very dearly like to knock her down a peg, including Sarah, her parents, several world leaders, the ghost of Elbert Ainstein, her little brother, and, interestingly enough, Manzel. Keep in mind that they each respectively have very good reasons to hate her.
Sal: Human Archer
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The most likeable person in team evil (which isn't saying much) is Sal. She is an efficient killing machine when given a bow and some arrows, and one of the biggest threats to the Neutrals' goal. Sam likes her, mostly because she's the only one who desn't know why he doesn't have any arms.
Sandy: Ice-Elven Sorceress
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She doesn't really belong in team evil, being chaotic neutral, but she owed Pitd a favor, and didn't know about (and so didn't get the chance to join) team neutral. She likes (as in LIKES likes) Manzel. Everyone pretty much ignores her until she's needed, but she can be useful. When she tries. Very hard.
The Neutrals
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Samantha: 1/2 Kobald 1/2 Halfling Wizard
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Samantha was born to a Kobald mother and a Halfling father. She is the leader, and a very good one at that; brilliant, charismatic, and straightforward. She can be touchy about her creature type, and when ticked off, can be bitingly harsh. She is determinatly true neutral.
Lauren: Human Cleric
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Lauren is dertermined and confident (read: cocky) but can also seem desperate at times. She is the "Durkon" of the neutrals, a bland and uninteresting person. She was born to a lawful good father and a chaotic evil mother, and hated being forced to choose.She is Chaotic Neutral.
Em: Elven Bard
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Em can't remember her past up until a year ago, when she woke up in an empty tavern in a villiage called Klaad. She joined the group hoping to find clues. She is moderatly intelligent, with occational flashes of brilliance. She has recurring nightmares about her old life every once in a while, but they've been getting much worse and more frequent since she joined the neutrals. She is very loyal towards Samantha. She is True Neutral.
Denvar: Rouge Dwarf
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Rasied by humans, Denvar is a very unique dwarf. He doesn't have an accent, and has managed to get himself banned from almost every other group you can think of. Snappy, cheeky, and rude, you may be suprised to learn that he's Lawful Good.
Manzel: Whight Fighter
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Manzel is the son of two whights, and just assumes that he is a whight as well. He acts more human, however, and is Lawful Neutral instead of the usual evil alignment. He mostly just stays in the back, but he is an excellent warrior. He is often described as "the quiet type". He is pessimistic, but very smart. He owes Samantha his life.
Guest comic by MethosHazara
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Last edited by EmeraldPhoenix; 2009-09-01 at 01:29 PM.
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2009-06-29, 11:52 PM (ISO 8601)
- Join Date
- Aug 2008
Re: The Neutrals
It isn't easy to give feedback about your comic yet, but from what I've heard, Inkscape works well, and it's free.
...
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2009-06-30, 02:29 AM (ISO 8601)
- Join Date
- Aug 2008
- Location
- North
- Gender
Treasured Quotes
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2009-06-30, 05:38 AM (ISO 8601)
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- Aug 2007
- Location
- Dorset, England
- Gender
Re: The Neutrals
As was mine...
And MS paint is seriously Inferior unless your like.... Jesus or something...I'm technically but I refuse to admit it!QuotesI'm an Artist!, If you want an Avatar just PM me your specifics - Avatar by Me!
Dawn of Yesterday (Resuming now!)
Currently Developing the "PASSIVE™" RPG system
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2009-06-30, 08:14 AM (ISO 8601)
- Join Date
- Jan 2007
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2009-06-30, 09:32 AM (ISO 8601)
- Join Date
- Nov 2007
Re: The Neutrals
It's also good for sprite work.
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2009-06-30, 09:39 AM (ISO 8601)
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- Oct 2007
- Location
- Ireland
- Gender
Re: The Neutrals
The thing here is that MS Paint is a raster program, while Inkscape is a vector one. Without context, neither is better or worse than the other.
But in the domain of stick figure comics, Inkscape is obviously the better one, since you don't have to resize your strip, you can easily have movable templates, you can make layers, etc.
However, if you compare MS Paint to another raster art program, it's almost always inferior. Compare the options in Paint to those in Photoshop, for example.
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2009-06-30, 09:49 AM (ISO 8601)
- Join Date
- Sep 2007
- Location
- London, UK
- Gender
Re: The Neutrals
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uk2sPl_Z7ZU
That is all.Last edited by Nameless; 2009-06-30 at 10:04 AM.
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2009-06-30, 10:19 AM (ISO 8601)
- Join Date
- Oct 2007
- Location
- Ireland
- Gender
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2009-06-30, 11:21 AM (ISO 8601)
- Join Date
- Jan 2007
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2009-06-30, 01:56 PM (ISO 8601)
- Join Date
- Aug 2008
- Location
- North
- Gender
Treasured Quotes
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2009-06-30, 03:28 PM (ISO 8601)
- Join Date
- Aug 2006
Re: The Neutrals
Please get Inkscape ,, it's free... in the name of all scared retinas everywhere don't use MSpaint...
There are extensive tutorials in inkscape's page [ even make a character for oots.]
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2009-06-30, 07:31 PM (ISO 8601)
- Join Date
- Nov 2008
- Location
- :noitacoL
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2009-06-30, 08:50 PM (ISO 8601)
- Join Date
- Nov 2008
- Location
- :noitacoL
Re: The Neutrals
....aaaaand I've got them uploaded!
Ok, mostly. But I'll work it out later. Meanwhile, enjoy my first 9 comics!
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2009-06-30, 10:07 PM (ISO 8601)
- Join Date
- Aug 2008
Re: The Neutrals
Not too bad so far, I'll definitely be checking in sometime in the future. The art could use some work, though. It's fine by Paint standards, not counting the Mona Lisa, but I stand by my opinion that Inkscape will make the comic look a lot nicer. And you should really consider linking to the comics instead of showing them on this page. Once you get to a high number of comics, it takes a long time to load the page, which really just makes it harder for people to get into your comic. But good luck, and I hope to see your work continue!
...
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2009-07-01, 02:48 AM (ISO 8601)
- Join Date
- Aug 2006
Re: The Neutrals
My eyes burn ... dialogue is funny but pleaseeeee ... try inkscape... you'll learn how to use it in 2 hours max... it's for the best.
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2009-07-01, 03:33 AM (ISO 8601)
- Join Date
- Jan 2007
Re: The Neutrals
Not to be rude, but I do advise getting inkscape as well. It is free and can greatly improve the look of your work when you get used to it. However, ignore Hacktor, your art is pretty good for a first timer, better than my first few. If you want to use paint, you're gonna need some practise, if not try inkscape or if neither, just carry on as you are. It isnt that bad.
Thank Saturn for this avatar!
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2009-07-01, 09:49 AM (ISO 8601)
- Join Date
- Nov 2008
- Location
- :noitacoL
Re: The Neutrals
Last edited by EmeraldPhoenix; 2009-07-01 at 11:39 AM.
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2009-07-01, 11:16 AM (ISO 8601)
- Join Date
- Nov 2008
- Location
- :noitacoL
Re: The Neutrals
I've got all my comics uploaded! Yay!
Comments?
Questions?
Critiques?
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2009-07-01, 11:39 AM (ISO 8601)
- Join Date
- Nov 2006
- Gender
Re: The Neutrals
Bah, the neutrals. I hate these filthy neutrals! With enemies you know where they stand but with neutrals? Who knows! It sickens me.
What makes a man turn neutral? Lust for gold? Power? Or were you just born with a heart full of neutrality? Once the neutral war machine lies in ruins, I will be a hero again.
Just had to get that out of my system.
It is an interesting idea. However, it sometimes gets difficult to tell people apart, especially the women. You did a good job of differentiating your main characters, but I got kinda confused when I started seeing the villains.
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2009-07-01, 11:45 AM (ISO 8601)
- Join Date
- Aug 2007
- Location
- Dorset, England
- Gender
Re: The Neutrals
I think....
That you should seriously consider AGAINST using the obvious rip off characters from Oots...
Unless you ask The Giant himself whether he minds...
It's one thing to make references and jokes... but another to use rip off characters...
Other than that I love the Idea of the comic!
My favorite character is the Halfling in the Neutrals!I'm technically but I refuse to admit it!QuotesI'm an Artist!, If you want an Avatar just PM me your specifics - Avatar by Me!
Dawn of Yesterday (Resuming now!)
Currently Developing the "PASSIVE™" RPG system
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2009-07-01, 01:07 PM (ISO 8601)
- Join Date
- Nov 2007
- Location
- Canada, okay?! Yeeesh.
- Gender
Re: The Neutrals
I don't think there is anything wrong with using obvious rip-offs. Otherwise, wouldn't Spaceballs be sued by George Lucas?
Anyway, a great comic so far. Thumbs up!
The only thing I would worry about is that the goblin in comic 12 seems verrrrry similar to a goblin from one from Order of the Stick. I'm pretty sure that reusing the Giant's artwork is against the rules. If it is reused, you may want to redraw that comic with your own art for the goblin.Last edited by Green-Shirt Q; 2009-07-01 at 01:08 PM.
AVATAR BATTLE ROYALE!
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2009-07-01, 01:47 PM (ISO 8601)
- Join Date
- Jul 2007
- Location
- Airstrip One
Re: The Neutrals
Parodies are protected covered in the US under Fair Use, so Mel Brooks is safe. A cameo appearance (defined as a single strip appearance done for humour or contrast) is considered parody and is acceptable, however the names and likenesses of the OotS characters are copyrighted, and cannot be used otherwise without specific permission.
Legal issues aside, reusing characters generally indicates a lack of creativity on the part of the comic creator, and should be avoided in any case.Last edited by Keris; 2009-07-01 at 01:48 PM.
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2009-07-01, 01:53 PM (ISO 8601)
- Join Date
- Nov 2007
- Location
- Canada, okay?! Yeeesh.
- Gender
Re: The Neutrals
They could be just parodies, though. These OOTS thinly-disguised rip-offs don't have exactly the same names. And it doesn't seem like they are exactly the main focus of the comic, either. And, although the opposite seems more likely from what we've seen of them, they could have completely unique personalities while still being a parady of the original OOTS. Only time will tell, I guess. I highly doubt there could be anything legal about it yet, though.
Last edited by Green-Shirt Q; 2009-07-01 at 01:53 PM.
AVATAR BATTLE ROYALE!
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2009-07-01, 02:46 PM (ISO 8601)
- Join Date
- Jul 2007
- Location
- Airstrip One
Re: The Neutrals
Sure. They could be, at which point it would be fine. I never said that these characters would definitely be ground for legal action, but they don't seem either original characters or deliberate parodies so far. Possibly because it's difficult to parody a parody.
They have almost exactly the same names, almost exactly the same appearances, and almost exactly the same roles. From what we've seen of the their personalities, it seems that Belker and Vaarsuvius have undergone a simple switch.
In Comic #8, Sam says "why are you hiding in the shadows? You don't want to get sued by Rich Burle-". This is a parodying cameo, it only appears for one comic and the reference hasn't been mentioned again. As Rich hasn't trademarked his own name (as far as I'm aware), it's fine.
However, in Comic #10 "The Good Guys" are introduced. The set up implies that they will be recurring characters, as they are the opponents/competitors to what appear to be the principle villains. 'Velkar' then emphasises how similar his personality is to Belkar's in that comic, with his cry of "I. AM. THE. SEXY. SHOELESS. GOD. OF. FXCKING. WAR!". Baarsuvious then acknowledges the similarity, stating that he will have to "prepare 'deflect lawsuit'". Additionally, Elon's line in the final panel is of the same structure as Elan's signature songs. While there may not be any strong legal grounds yet, it's skating on thin ice.
As an additional note to Belkar=awesome, profanity is not permitted in Fan Comics. While you have 'disguised' it by substituting X, we are asked to use the forum filter as a guideline, and substituting another letter probably come under "Circumventing the Board filters", which is a minor infraction.
Belkar=awesome, I suggest you rewrite "The Good Guys" into original characters, and cut down on the profanity. This comic shows potential, you don't want to ruin it.
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2009-07-01, 03:16 PM (ISO 8601)
- Join Date
- Nov 2008
- Location
- :noitacoL
Re: The Neutrals
Oh, my. It seems I have some explaining to do.
Yes, they are paradies (mostly.) I will take each seperately, and tell you why I don't think I should be sued:
Buttercup and Wesley: They have nothing to do with the order of the stick, although the creater of "The Princess Bride" might get ticked off. I only took the names, and the fact that they are in love, the personalities are completely different and I was feeling uncreative when I had to come up with their names. I may or may not later make "Princess Bride" jokes, but only in the context of them being the only characters to have never seen the movie.
Drunkon: A play on the prejudice that all Dwarves are supposedly beer-loving drunks and also clerics. Has not made an apperance yet, but I thought the combination had a potential for hilarity.
Velkar and Baarsuvius: Okay, yes, I took a little from Rich, but it was purely parody. The "Good Guys" will not show up very often, and mostly just for comic relief.
Elon: All bards act like this and I was tired as heck when I had to name him. Don't judge me.
However, in Comic #10 "The Good Guys" are introduced. The set up implies that they will be recurring characters, as they are the opponents/competitors to what appear to be the principle villains. 'Velkar' then emphasises how similar his personality is to Belkar's in that comic, with his cry of "I. AM. THE. SEXY. SHOELESS. GOD. OF. FXCKING. WAR!". Baarsuvious then acknowledges the similarity, stating that he will have to "prepare 'deflect lawsuit'". Additionally, Elon's line in the final panel is of the same structure as Elan's signature songs. While there may not be any strong legal grounds yet, it's skating on thin ice.
As an additional note to Belkar=awesome, profanity is not permitted in Fan Comics. While you have 'disguised' it by substituting X, we are asked to use the forum filter as a guideline, and substituting another letter probably come under "Circumventing the Board filters", which is a minor infraction.
Belkar=awesome, I suggest you rewrite "The Good Guys" into original characters, and cut down on the profanity. This comic shows potential, you don't want to ruin it.
Happy?
PS: If someone could give me advice on what words are and are not allowed by forum standards, it would be much appreciated.Last edited by EmeraldPhoenix; 2009-07-01 at 03:21 PM.
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2009-07-01, 03:18 PM (ISO 8601)
- Join Date
- Nov 2007
- Location
- Canada, okay?! Yeeesh.
- Gender
Re: The Neutrals
Belkar=awesome, I agree with Keris Rain's point about profanity. It is against official rules, so you should probably fix that.
But other then that, don't listen to him. I'm sure that these characters are fine as long as it's lampshaded and used in moderation. Don't take him too seriously. He has been repetitively asked to chill out.Last edited by Green-Shirt Q; 2009-07-01 at 03:19 PM.
AVATAR BATTLE ROYALE!
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2009-07-01, 03:38 PM (ISO 8601)
- Join Date
- Jul 2007
- Location
- Airstrip One
Re: The Neutrals
I think this should work. As long as they're distinct enough to be easily identified as a separate character, you should be fine.
Not yet, but the computer tells me that I will have cake later, so I expect I shall be. Obvious joke is obvious. Tautologies are tautological.
You can always put any text your unsure of into the New Reply window, and hit "Preview Post" but not "Submit Reply". That way anything that would be filtered will be, and you'll know for sure. I'd hesitate to try and come up with a list of filtered words, for obvious reasons.
O U
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2009-07-02, 05:45 AM (ISO 8601)
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- Jun 2009
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- Denton Texas
- Gender
Re: The Neutrals
I was glad to see that you posted them here because I was sad when I saw that the site had been taken down.
Keep on doing what you do!
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2009-07-02, 02:35 PM (ISO 8601)
- Join Date
- Nov 2008
- Location
- :noitacoL
Re: The Neutrals
New comic!
Comic #013: It's certainly unlucky for the belhop.
Spoiler
Like/Dislike?
Comments, please!
PS: I've fixed the profanity problem.Last edited by EmeraldPhoenix; 2009-07-02 at 03:20 PM.