3. Character development
Leon lives in a world established by the series Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, but he's not confined by it, and this is part of what makes Stargazers so entertaining and unique. While the surroundings are familiar, Melendez adds a whole new layer of world-building character development over it, like a transparent sheet, and gives us fresh characters and settings within the station.
I especially enjoyed the introduction of Galen, the shopkeeper whom Leon, Churi, and Alfie visit to buy the latter's snacks. When they arrive, Jato, Syrrik's father and the station constable, is arguing with Galen, a stout-looking, bearded man.
Galen is bold and doesn't take any of Jato's attitude. He calls the constable a "clumpslomper" which brings to mind something like a slimy, stomping creature that lives in the same swamps as Denebian slime devils. It's definitely going on my list of Star Trek-based insults.
Melendez also uses Jato's character to further characterization here, as the more we see him, the better we understand that he isn't exactly the most popular person on the station. Jato ruffles feathers and raises blood pressure everywhere he goes with his rigid attitude and dour expression, which only worked for Odo.
Jato's continued issues with MeeMee are only one example, which are sure to continue in the next chapter. Melendez left us on a cliffhanger this episode, and I'm looking forward to seeing what happens next.
Remember, Redshirt readers, you can catch a new chapter of Stargazers each Sunday and read previous chapters on the WEBTOON website or in the app. In the meantime, let us know what you think about this installment of the webcomic on the Redshirts Always Die Facebook and X pages. Until next time!
Add us as a preferred source on Google