Author: Emirain
Format: webcomic
Warning: Review may contain spoilers.
We've seen it before, read it before -- been there, done that. The setting of a whore house is nothing new. But despite this, Emirain brings a new light to the world of "companionship." For one, it's gay. Not every character is gay, mind you, but the story focuses especially on the men and their male counterparts.
Right from the get-go we are introduced to the cast, including the owner of the brothel, the workers, and some of the patrons. Teahouse opens when one of said patrons comes for a visit. Right away we see the diversity between each of the whores: with Lilith's prudishness, Mercutio's unhealthy obsession with toys, Claret's fancy milk duds, Rory's blushing inexperience, and Axis's fuck-all attitude. And let's not forget the wiry, fragile Linneus, who looks like a walking jeweler's advertisement.
As introductions are made around, we see that Axis and the visiting patron (Rhys), have a special past. A hot, sexy, drool-worthy past. Though their interaction is short, just two pages in enough to describe the sort of tension between the two characters. We can tell right away that they'll be a fun, feisty pair to watch.
We also get to see a different sort of special relationship between Linneus and the brothel's owner: Atros. We don't know why they have a different relationship, but it's clear that the bond isn't shared with Atros and the other whores.
Not to say Atros doesn't get close to anyone else. Ahem. Apparently Atros has no problem bending a few rules to suit his own needs. The things he does seem minor, but there's a hint that it's only the tip of the iceberg. Readers are pulled to be sympathetic towards Linneus, who is the most affected by Atros's actions.
Lastly, we meet one more patron who is bound to leave use with a very strong impression: Reed. He's a foreboding sort or individual who seems dangerous at first glance. A man who suffers no shit. Who he happens to pick out as his companion for the day is surprising -- and perhaps a little scary.
Left at a cliffhanger after the two meet, it's needless to say the audience is kept gripping at their seats for more. There is so much more to tell, so much more to do. Emirain starts off strong and ends the chapter on a high note. Suspense, wonder, anticipation -- these are but a few emotions that might play in a reader's head after getting through this chapter. It's obvious this is just the beginning, and there is so much more ahead.
I find myself part of the crowd that's itching for more. I think you will too.
Overall: 5 out of 5
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