Q&A with Midnight (August 2021)

Another batch of questions I've received over the last few weeks. I always enjoy answering these and, from here on, I'll try to make this a monthly thing. 

—Which chapter was the hardest to write?

The current Horror High story arc has been the most time consuming and, in some ways, the most difficult — but also the most fun! I’ve had this particular plot line in mind for a while now, and it’s gone through countless notes, outlines, revisions, and so on. Many previous chapters, like Nightmare Island or Thanks But No Tanks, were very “stand-alone” style stories — ie Reena and Madison receive a new case, investigate, save the day, etc.

Instead, Horror High is a multi-chapter story arc that connects several previous plots, introduces many new characters, and brings back some we haven’t seen in a while. There’s a lot to map out with this one, but it’s been very rewarding and I’m nothing but impressed by the excellent work Salaiix’s doing on this chapter. I can’t wait for everyone to see the upcoming pages and future chapters — I feel that this entire Horror High arc will provide some of the most gripping DZO stories yet.

—Could you describe Reena and Madison in 5 words each?

Interestingly, I’ve received similar variations of this question from two separate readers — both within the last month.

Reena: Optimistic, selfless, naive, idealistic, outgoing

Madison: Cynical, determined, impulsive, irritable, dilligent

—When creating Danger Zone One were you influenced by any other manga or anime?

Absolutely—there’s quite a few! The original Bubblegum Crisis OVAs, Dirty Pair, Gunsmith Cats, You’re Under Arrest, Cyber City Oedo, Mezzo, Agent Aika, Najica Blitz Tactics, and Mad Bull 34 were very big influences for Danger Zone One. Freezing and Triage X are more recent influences, especially in the fanservice department.

—What are you most satisfied with on Danger Zone One?

Honestly, that people enjoy reading DZO is what I’m most satisfied with. The reader comments, messages, and feedback are always a highlight which both Salaiix and myself always appreciate. And, of course, the fact that readers support the comic on Patreon is beyond incredible and keeps DZO going. Of course, I’m always happy when a script comes together—and seeing the finished comic art is a thrill all in itself—but knowing that some readers, over time, become invested in the story/characters is the best of all.

—Before starting the comic did you ever consider not doing fanservice? I love it, by the way. Just curious. I know some creators shy away from it because it’s isn’t mainstream.

I always envisioned the fanservice and ecchi aspects in Danger Zone One from the very start (that’s  where some of that Agent Aika and Najica influence really comes in). 18 chapters into DZO and it’s still fun incorporating those elements into the stories, and I know Salaiix especially likes drawing it. At this point, I think it’s very much expected of DZO to contain a fair share of fanservice.

I’m sure there are some readers who stumble upon the comic for the first time and are instantly turned off by the ecchi elements, but we certainly have no plans to slow that aspect down (actually DZO’s become more revealing over time—even including nudity in several later chapters). One of the great things about hosting DZO on our own site is that I never have to worry about being censored (like on Webtoons, Tapas, and so on).

Thanks for all the great questions!!