@@Leon-dl7hf Yeah essentially, but I feel like it isn't really as bad in the Tellius universe because the Laguz are still humanoid and are actual people and not just made up fursonas. Being a "furry" in Tellius actually makes sense unlike in the real world.
This was extremely insightful. I have to say Zihark wasn't someone I'd ever deeply looked into, but I'll be damned if I ever thought of the split paths for him like this. Perfection as usual, Ghast! Now time to watch this again with those thoughts in mind and digest this properly.
@@thekiss2083 Largo is debatably the best father/husband, but he isn't the best Daddy. And Oliver is already the sexiest thing in the world, spread the love a bit, you know?
"betray his ethics and honor his comrades, or betray his comrades and honor his ethics" Excellent writing. I can only hope that Fire Emblem returns to this style of character writing. Characters whose personal struggle is informed by, and plastic to, the player's actions are immensely difficult to write, but as this video demonstrates, the results speak for themselves.
@@ShursGarden IMO it went a little bit back but still lacking something. The defecting students simply just stay with your party and there's not really a good reason for it with a few exceptions like Lysithea and Mercedes.
@@kimoota-kun I really think they needed to make everyone work like Lorenz in AM/SS & Ashe in VW. They leave your party after Part 1 but if you had recruited them before you can re-recruit them when they show up as an enemy. Would’ve given them some more dialogue to justify their defection and make part w actually have some recruitable characters instead of being a boring kill boss fest.
Thank you for this episode. I really appreciate your perspectives on the matter. I do think it is important to mention the fact that a blood pact, no matter powerfully binding or law abiding the citizens can be, is no excuse for people like Sothe and Micaiaha as well as the king himself to tolerate racism in their domain. I'm glad that the canon path for Zihark is to side with the laguz because not only does it mean that he is siding with those who he vowed to protect, but that it allows him to uphold his principles and help him be happier with his choices. Patriotism is fine when combined with purpose and diligence, but not when it leads to ethnic genocide. Again, thanks alot and I hope that you'll continue to do more Support Science features for characters who are determined to advance social progress or making serious efforts to ensure the world is a better place after saving it.
You weren't kidding, the editing skills are strong with this one. This was a fun project to help with! Zihark was a character I often overlooked because "Navarre edgelord killing edge tragic past" archetype, but recording all the supports and dialogue and reading through everything showed how little I really know about a lot of characters in my favorite series. Even learned a lot about other characters through him (Brom is best daddy). Thanks for letting me help with this!
Haven't watched one of these in a minute so it's clear to see you've really stepped up your game dude. Zihark was a guy that'd I'd either bench for Mia or just pass over in general. But boy did this blow up my interest in learning more about him. This was awesome. This video also affirmed how much I love the separate armies approach RD took. Each of the conflicts just have so much care and consideration for the characters involved and their previously established relationships.
It would have been great to also get a part for begnion in radiant dawn. Maybe following the dude who idolized zelgius or playing as Zelgius and freeing Sephiran.
Zihark is my all time favorite Fire Emblem character, can't wait to watch your video! Update: As a huge Fire Emblem fan and an advocate for the series' great writing and characters, I must say I found this video incredible. You explained just how three dimensional my boy Zihark is. I've always loved his "fighting to end the hate" mentality, and seeing just how challenging the events in Radiant Dawn were on him made me respect him even more. Excellent work as usual, and thank you so much for giving my favorite character the respect he deserves.
This has to be my favourite Support Science yet. I was aware of what Zihark's MO was but I never looked at him betraying Daein as a war with himself. This opened my eyes, I respect Zihark a lot more than I already did now. Thank you Ghast.
Zihark defecting is quite clearly the canon route IMO because it's a one way street in the sense that once he defects, he can't come back to Daein. Nice video, I thought you forgot about posting it or something. Some people complain that the fact Jill and Zihark don't immediately defect is bad writing but it really isn't because the laguz launched a foreign invasion and this time around, the leadership isn't racist unlike in PoR. It goes to show that when circumstances are different, morally upright characters can find themselves in a moral quandary.
It's a DAMN shame Zihark doesn't get more of a spotlight in the story as a whole, because his arc is such a clear symbol of the social climate of Tellius that it gives him a really strong personal stake in the plot of both games, especially Radiant Dawn. Honestly, I'd have loved to see him as a protagonist. His story has so much potential that would've fit the story of the Tellius duo perfectly. Plus, he just FEELS like a hero in terms of his personality. Also, I ship him with Ilyana lowkey
I'm curious, what is your opinion on Jill and her moral issues regarding the same thing? Jill is someone who was shown the truth of both sides of the Beorc/Laguz struggle, and she chose the path that was best for her country in FE9 and 10. She too has morals, but unlike Zihark she remains steadfast in the belief that a country can change for the better, though she is less optimistic than Micaiah. Perhaps this is due to her station as the leader of Talrega, but Jill has influence and renown in Daein and can make a change for the better. The only way she defects in RD is when Haar or Mist talk to her, and while these people are important to her no one shames her for fighting to better Daein. Jill is very aware, from her base conversation in 3-6, that Pelleas isn't making the right choice, but none of her enemies tell her she is wrong for staying with Daein. Lethe even tells her how much she respects her as a warrior and friend, and Jill continues to do what she thinks is right, by saving her country and making it better from the inside. It's truly interesting to see how similar she is with Zihark in their dilemma but also how the right choice for them lies on opposite sides.
This has to be the second support science better than the one on Eliwood, right beside Celica's. I always found Zihark interesting though I hardly used him that much, so I didn't get into his supports and other conversations through out both games. But this video helped me understand his character much more and now I feel like putting him in my top ten favourites. He's basically what Corrin should have been, but oh God, the contrast is too great it's almost unbelievable...!
That's a very interesting observation I didn't think of until now. Both characters are meant to be conflicted because of the position they're put in: _remain loyal to their friends or fight for what they believe is right._ It works as a great example of *"execution matters more than ideas when writing."*
Wow I really need to get to playing the Tellius games, I knew Zihark was a fan favourite but jeez is he well written. He's a great contrast the the usual Navarre archetype, is a developed character and is another reason I need to play these games. Great editing and voice acting again, these are really great videos.
I definitely recommend them. There's a lot of world building, and a lot of the characters have a lot of depth. They're definitely my favorite pair of Fire Emblem games.
Level Zero Only thing keeping me away from them is the price at the moment, I think the original Wii's can play GameCube games so I think I'm good on that front.
ShadedHydra Yeah, I play both on my Wii. I actually got both games during the Brawl hype train, which is how I discovered Fire Emblem in the first place. Due to that, I got them both at the original price. Best of luck getting your hands on the games, though. They're some of the best Fire Emblem has to offer.
Level Zero I played FE7 first and played some of the other games. I played Path of Radiance with Ike but I rented it back then when I played it. I never heard about a sequel for the game surprisingly and want to get the games but they are expensive to an extent. It all depends on the seller
One quote that actually made me shed a tear was mordecai saying: “you have no fang or tail but you are a beast brother zee-hark” Mordecai is so wholesome and zihark and him have such a good friendship
I find the Tellius series incredibly underrated in terms of it's writing and I'm glad to see videos like this. You did a great job. Excited to see more.
This is an amazing video. It makes me feel ashamed for never using him in either PoR or RD. I plan on using him in my next playthrough. Also, it is readily apparent that if there was a game made from Zihark's point of view, it would blow Fates out of the water, especially given that it is possible to sympathize with all involved. Great job.
GeorgeKinsill fair enough not using him though. Stefan is better then both Mia and Zihark combined in PoR due to those insane bases and Mia will be closer to tier 3 by the time Zihark rejoins.
I really like Ike and Zihark's differing reasons for being so open-minded, as well. For Ike, he's naive, and was sheltered, the very meaning of the Fool arcana in tarot. He's just a naturally good person who never knew any better or worse than he does and did. He made mistakes, and learned from the consequences. He possibly never even knew much that beast-people exist. While Zihark, well, we don't know about his past beyond having had a Laguz girlfriend that he absolutely loved, but it is probable that his open-mindedness came from knowing of the racism first-hand, likely even from before he and his girlfriend met, knowing how Daein held Laguz slaves.
ZIhark's actor not only sounds on-point for the character, but wonderful in general! He has such a nice tenor to his voice. It was such a neat detail to include in this, too! I was pleasantly surprised the moment I heard the voices. Ilyana and Lethe were pleasant standouts, too. Zihark is a fantastic, no doubt about it, and you did a phenomenal job explaining exactly why.
If only radiant dawn had actual supports and we could see what hes thinking on both sides.... iirc Jill can also defect. God radiant dawn was so close to being the perfect FE with just a few major things holding it back.
Man every single one of these videos makes me go on emotional roller coasters with characters I never even knew I would care about. And I love it. Keep up the good work Ghast.
Hey folks! Thanks for watching! Please leave a like and let me know what you think down below. I read all the comments! If you're new to the channel, please *subscribe!*
You know, the sad thing is that the same racism happens in real life. Radiant Dawn is a sad story of war and Zihark is just someone who is very conflicted. The only problem with sending Zihark to the the laguzes is that the Dawn Brigade sucks so you'll take a heavy blow sending him away.
Zihark is one of my all time favorite characters. He is he second enemy that joins Ike though. The thunder mage is technically an enemy in the defend map you recruit her on.
What a great analysis! You presented Zihark in a way I never thought about. Thinking more, his character highlights greatly the multiple intersections of our identities. He identifies as a citizen of Daein and an activist for equality. How terrible it is when one of your identities conflicts with another. His conflicting identities; how prejudice and discriminatory his country is to laguz vs his commitment to acceptance and equality. This is a wonderful distinction from the overused “black and white,” everything-perfectly-falls-in-place character. Conflicting identities reside within all of us and that’s what makes Zihark so relatable.
18:34 - 18:39 Yeah, obviously, one is a scrub class (except on Valentia/Tellius) who can only wield Lances and the other is one of the best infantry classes which has Swords and sometimes Axes.
Join laguz alliance or stay with Daein *Yes/No* In all seriousness Zihark is one of the few characters that benefitted from radiant dawn, Due to RD's shoddy writing (My opinion) most characters from the first game are lacking improvement or have even gotten worse ASTRID! Those introduced aren't helped either due to the lack of real supports and they end up being so underdeveloped that I dont even care enough to form an opinion on them But Zihark's moral dilemma is something you would expect to get from a main character and only made me want to see him succeed more after POR when he killed everything with a forged gamble killing edge Also Whoever voiced zihark is the new daddy
RD was such a mixed bag for me I love the world, game play, scale etc. But what happened to all the characters I know and love?? Sure they were there and sure they were playable, but the writing for minor characters and the "supports" killed me.
@@zihark8444 I replayed RD recently, I feel like the game isn't necessarily about the characters, but about Tellius and its tribulations. We get a lot of backstory on Lehran and Zelgius for example. Haar has conversations with a lot of the bosses. Sanaki learns she is a false apostle. Soren learns he is the son of Ashnard and the true prince of Daein.
I very much agree with everything you've said about Zihark and find him to be very admirable in his mindset and endeavors withing the game; the only thing I would disagree with is the title of the video itself. I wouldn't label him as a social justice warrior, he's more of a an activist and a revolutionary in a world that truly heavily oppresses people of different races to the point of murder and slaughter. Frankly, he seemed very reasonable withing the games and his world needed someone like him to exist and fight for the lives of those around him, but I have a feeling if he came to ours he would retain a much different perspective despite holding onto the same beliefs of equality and justice among all people. Social justice warriors, as the stereotype that we are personally becoming accustomed to in modern society, tend to be people who claim equality (much like Zihark, and im sure with similarly good intentions) but in a society of tiers that is nowhere near as vulgar as the one where he has come from. Depending on what country you live in (I currently live in the U.S.), all people have comparable rights to better themselves and no one is spat upon for simply being different BY THE SOCIETY ITSELF. The cruelty of the world shown in the game was so widespread that it was integrated in their way of life to be cruel and unfair to laguz and spur hatred between the races; in our world (again depending on country), while people do treat each other unfairly, the vast majority of people can respect one another as human beings and those who do not treat each other equally are looked down upon by society. Disputes between people based on race, sec, age, or gender are often more personal viewpoints rather than ones that our society has founded. With that said, I'd feel like Zihark would agree that our current society doesn't have much injustice to rebel against and would more likely be reasonably happy living in peace here rather than disturbing it unnecessarily.
A great analysis of my absolute favorite Fire Emblem character. Great stuff Ghast. I'm sure you have a list, but I might suggest Tauroneo as a possible subject. I don't know if he has enough good supports or RD combat dialogue, but I really love him as a character similar to Zihark. Most loyal-to-my-now-evil-country characters just die tragically in Fire Emblem as a boss character. Tauroneo defects and fights his own emperor to save his country, something most of these types of characters never do. It gels with me that he can see his national loyalty in a more nuanced way. All the other characters in FE recluctanly fight and die to wage a war of evil, which always felt like a form of cowardice; hiding behind "loyalty" to avoid making the choice of shattering your identity by turning traitor (shoutout to Duessel, only other one to do it). Tauroneo fights for Daein in a brave way in FE9, and then helps rebuild it from the ground up as a loyal, good man and soldier in RD. Also his hair game might challenge for series-best, despite his weird pearl armor. Maybe you can do a "Top 5 Virtuous Traitor" episode. Just random thoughts, great stuff man.
This is a very well thought out analysis of one of my favorite FE characters. Thanks for the walk down memory lane. When I was a teen I had a big crush on Zihark because he was cute, a good person, and I had a feeling we might get along in real life. I also had a big crush on Soren but deep down I knew I didn't think we would like each other if we were to meet in real life.
These videos really help remind me why I love Fire Emblem. Great work, really. The Tellius series has such amazing potential with all the hard to trigger conversations it has. Really goes to show the writers had a vision for EVERY character not only the protagonists and their close circle, even if they knew most people wouldn't get to see their evolution. Thanks for bringing those efforts to light, and for showcasing some of the interactions between personal favorite characters of mine like Zihark and Ilyana. I can't wait to see more of these great, underrated characters covered by you :) Thank you!
people talking about zihawk's depth but overhere i'm just pointing out that ilyana convosation as an example that sure she's not a complex character, she can have moments that aren't her one note trope, her convosation with micaiah in the same stage is also very well done too.
Not going to lie, the only reason I support Ilyana with Zihark in PoR is just so I can get the unique recruitment dialogue mentioned in this video. While still not anything worthwhile, I thought that brief conversation characterized her in a way much better than either games did at all.
Zihark for me was just a guy that i thought was a cool character and i would bench Mia for (in both games). I liked his design and his desire to unite Laguz and Beorc but never imagined he was a so well-written and deep character since i didn't bother with his supports in PoR or conversation with other characters in RD. Great video Ghast! You've made me like him even more now(and also want him in Heroes even more).
Excellent video! Given the focus of the video its only natural for the focus to be on Zihark and racism vs laguz. One thing that gets left behind, RD in particular is kind of bad for this, is that the racism did go both ways. It's not really relevant HERE, but Tellius and the dynamics between the two races become a lot more intricate when we appreciate that fact.
Nice video. I would like to see you do a support science on Jill next. I think she has some of the most internal struggles and character growth in the Tellius Fire Emblem games.
I watched all of your support science videos and I gotta say, I never saw any TH-camr like you who analyzed any video game characters as great as you Ghast. You're truly coming along with your support science series and I'm looking forward to the next future videos
To any authors or aspiring authors: This is how you write a character that has experienced loss. Zihark's loss guides his actions, but does not dominate his personality.
One thing that always confused me is why Zihark and Stefan never had a conversation. Seems like they'd get on like a peanut butter and jelly. Especially since they both want a place where Beorc, Laguz, and mixed children can live happily
Ghast, getting the voice actors for these essays is so indicative of your dedication to this content. It’s really, really good. Thanks for this series.
These video essays are amazing, Ghast. Support Science episodes are similar to essays I have to write for a teacher who gives you a 0 for having a being verb in the thesis statement. They are amazing in almost every sense from their structure to their content. I hope that one day I can write at the same level.
This... This is incredible...... I had no idea how conflicted he was.. Truly masterful writing. It’s a shame we don’t get these rich side stories much anymore in FE.
Thank you for doing such a great analysis about my fav character in the Tellius Games besides Ike. I mean I like Mia kinda but I hated it that she got all the hype while I always thought Zihark was the way more interesting character...
I know Jill can make the same decision to defect, but I wish that Haar had the option to defect to Daein. Not only would the last Daein chapters in part 3 be more bearable but story-wise, he decision could be about honoring Shiharam or something.
This was fantastic from start to finish. Awesome character breakdown and analysis of probably my favorite Fire Emblem character of all time. Also, the voice acting was legit stellar.
Haven't looked at this channel or video series in ages; thank you for finally looking at a Tellius character! He's a great example of the type of depth and nuance that endears me to its cast as much as it does, and I hope you get to do more. The voice acting was on point and a great addition as well. It looks like a few people misconstrued your choice of labeling per the title, but you're technically correct. I get it's still hip to group the worst examples unto a label and say that's the only relevant meaning of it, but PoR and RD *were* considerably progressive in their narrative and should be acknowledged as such.
Can we please arrange it so you and your team localize the FE 17, whenever it gets released? Holy crap this writing and voice-acting are gorgeous. Great job, Ghast.
This is honestly hurtful. It brings me back so many memories. Thank you for engaging in the tellius series. Radiant Dawn is my favorite and first ever fire emblem and I can't get over how gorgeous the stories in both its prequel and sequel.
Just found this video, and it reinforces why I absolutely ADORE Zihark. He’s trying to be that middle ground between laguz and beorc in the wish for liberation and unity, and I absolutely love it. He’s always on a front line on the field and in my heart
I always have to wonder, that since they ended up cutting a Zihark/Ike support in PoR, if Zihark's path would have been somewhat different in RD, if he was closer to Ike than he is in canon? Perhaps he would have immediately left Daein without even needing to talk to Lethe or Mordecai, or he might have even been a member of the Greil Mercenaries after the events of the first game, or even after the first part of RD. Or even be a Gallian mercenary, in the latter situation?
I didn't think much of most Tellius characters, didn't really get the time to do multiple playthroughs. Thanks for this Ghast, I have to look more into Zihark. I missed plenty with him, something I should fix as his character is one I would have adored then instead of just now. These are so damn incredible, looking forward to your next SS most but totes respect the time they need. Thanks again sir, showing this fire emblem fan another character I've grossly overlooked.
Thank you for giving me even more motivation for having Zihark defect to the Laguz Alliance. I already do so because I know he cares about the laguz but I never figured that staying with Daein would affect him THAT much. Pretty good video.
I've recently found your channel and watched this whole series. These are amazing! I'm glad that you are looking into the real depths of these characters and games! Please never stop making these great breakdowns of fun characters!
Really good video, thanks! I was really impressed at the depth of things you found about Zihark. I loved the character and always kind of new the struggle, but not to that extent. Very great character and story.
Absolutely amazing work here Ghast! Really, I've always loved this character, but after this I can say he's one of my top favorites of the entire franchise. Keep up the great work!
This is interesting; a support science where the focus isn’t on supports, but rather in-battle conversations. That’s pretty cool, and it makes me wish I’d tried Radiant Dawn back before it got absurdly expensive. ...I know I’m probably super-late for this, but this episode makes me think you could do a support science on Caeda using her Shadow Dragon conversations. What can be said about a woman so devoted to her love, yet also willing to flirt with enemy soldiers to get them to defect?
Zihark has always been my favorite character. I only knew the basic stuff. From the wiki. And now that I know everything that goes on Zihark's head... It just makes me love his character more. As much as I love Felicia, Zihark will and always be my favorite character from the Fire Emblem series. He's relatable. In the Daein route, he's tragic. And in the Crimea route, he's probably one of the best characters to ever come out of Fire Emblem.
I have always loved Zihark as both a unit and a character and I'm glad that you made this video cause it made me find a few things out that I didn't know about him. Great video as usual.
That is some damn good voice acting and production value. I always did like Zihark, unlike so much of the cast he had an internal struggle that was deep and relatable. Also, I'm clearly biased, but I'd love to see you talk about Selena/Severa.
Jesus Christ, this video is so insightful, it should be required viewing by any Fire Emblem fan. Zihark's conflict represents the best aspects of the series' narrative: Loyalty, camaraderie and fighting for a good cause. Also, the editing and voice acting is superb! The production values on these videos have skyrocketed. Congrats to everyone!
This is the second time one of your Support Sciences has made me tear up (first was Gerrik). This is what I love about the Fire Emblem fandom. For ever waifubait vid, there's someone who puts out quality, thought-provoking content like this.
You should do Naesala and/or Zelgius! Naesala is great because he's always perceived as a typical bad guy, but when you find out about how he was being controlled by the blood pact that's a really powerful and character defining moment that contrasts with everything you know about him before that, and his relationships with the Serenes is a big deal too. Zelgius potentially being Micaiah and Sanaki's father, Ike's greatest rival, servant to Sephiran (Who also has an amazing character), Greil's apprentice, loyal to Daien. There is so much to digest there that I think most people can miss very easily if they're not paying very very close attention.
![HECTOR: A Lord Beyond Brawn. [Fire Emblem: Support Science #18]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/q_ltMzoVmwQ/mqdefault.jpg)
![HECTOR: A Lord Beyond Brawn. [Fire Emblem: Support Science #18]](/img/tr.png)
![Gerik: Strong. Sexy. Storied. [Fire Emblem: Support Science #15] The Sacred Stones](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/eUgUta35Yso/mqdefault.jpg)
![เปิด อาณาจักร หมื่นล้าน "สาระตั้ม" l [Nickynachat]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/3XE0nPF4YkQ/mqdefault.jpg)
tfw ziharks pick-a-side dilemma is done way better than corrins
Let's be honest: everything was better than Corrin.
press F to pay respects for fates's plot
I wish I could like this comment twice
Well, Corrin's choice and split part in concept wasn't bad.... The story on either side was just REALLY badly written... And god... Revelation...
>Defend Laguz
>Fight with Daein
>Stay on the bench
* Stay with Daein
* Choose the Greil Mercenaries
Or...
* JOIN SMASH
Alex Powell hahahahaha
Hahahaah lol
I would have loved Zihark in Smash tbh 😏
THOSE Smash Fans: "Ugh!" *_"ANOTHER ANIME SWORD FIGHTER?!?!?!?111?1?1??11!!"_*
Zihark: On all levels except physical, I am a Laguz.
(Transforms)
Lethe: OWO *Nuzzles Zihark*
Wait, is Zihark a furry?!?!
@@Leon-dl7hf Yeah essentially, but I feel like it isn't really as bad in the Tellius universe because the Laguz are still humanoid and are actual people and not just made up fursonas. Being a "furry" in Tellius actually makes sense unlike in the real world.
@@Xane875 And besides, when you think about it, it might have indirectly inspired the idea of the Faunas race in RWBY.
@@thewindysage1538 Well, you could say the same of Kagome when concerning her relation to InuYasha.
This was extremely insightful. I have to say Zihark wasn't someone I'd ever deeply looked into, but I'll be damned if I ever thought of the split paths for him like this. Perfection as usual, Ghast!
Now time to watch this again with those thoughts in mind and digest this properly.
I agree with Zihark, Brom truly is the Daddy of Tellius.
Zihark + Brom best bromance
That's a funny way to spell Largo
TheKiss *Oliver
@@jakestavinsky3480
Damn! How could I forget?
@@thekiss2083 Largo is debatably the best father/husband, but he isn't the best Daddy. And Oliver is already the sexiest thing in the world, spread the love a bit, you know?
"betray his ethics and honor his comrades, or betray his comrades and honor his ethics"
Excellent writing. I can only hope that Fire Emblem returns to this style of character writing. Characters whose personal struggle is informed by, and plastic to, the player's actions are immensely difficult to write, but as this video demonstrates, the results speak for themselves.
Now that 3 Houses is out, do you think they went back to the style of writing you mentioned?
@@ShursGarden IMO it went a little bit back but still lacking something. The defecting students simply just stay with your party and there's not really a good reason for it with a few exceptions like Lysithea and Mercedes.
@@kimoota-kun I really think they needed to make everyone work like Lorenz in AM/SS & Ashe in VW. They leave your party after Part 1 but if you had recruited them before you can re-recruit them when they show up as an enemy. Would’ve given them some more dialogue to justify their defection and make part w actually have some recruitable characters instead of being a boring kill boss fest.
Who'd've thought that *THIS* ... was the Fates story we needed all along?
hooray for a support science that doesn't end on a somber note !
Hol on did you just pronounce lethe "lethy"
Matt Pac we don’t talk about radiant dawn Astrid just path of radiance
I hated radiant dawn....But loved the characters and your video made me remember that ^^
May I ask what Console or Program that you use? Why your graphic come out so great and smooth?
Thank you for this episode. I really appreciate your perspectives on the matter. I do think it is important to mention the fact that a blood pact, no matter powerfully binding or law abiding the citizens can be, is no excuse for people like Sothe and Micaiaha as well as the king himself to tolerate racism in their domain. I'm glad that the canon path for Zihark is to side with the laguz because not only does it mean that he is siding with those who he vowed to protect, but that it allows him to uphold his principles and help him be happier with his choices. Patriotism is fine when combined with purpose and diligence, but not when it leads to ethnic genocide. Again, thanks alot and I hope that you'll continue to do more Support Science features for characters who are determined to advance social progress or making serious efforts to ensure the world is a better place after saving it.
You weren't kidding, the editing skills are strong with this one.
This was a fun project to help with! Zihark was a character I often overlooked because "Navarre edgelord killing edge tragic past" archetype, but recording all the supports and dialogue and reading through everything showed how little I really know about a lot of characters in my favorite series. Even learned a lot about other characters through him (Brom is best daddy). Thanks for letting me help with this!
Thanks brother!!!
I expected the worst from that video title, but then I remembered what channel this is.
Holy fuck, this video almost made me cry.
My eyes are still dry.
My eyes are crusty i never want to open them agian after this video
Damnit Ghast why do you make me feel bad for making my life easier by keeping him with the Dawn Brigade
Haven't watched one of these in a minute so it's clear to see you've really stepped up your game dude. Zihark was a guy that'd I'd either bench for Mia or just pass over in general. But boy did this blow up my interest in learning more about him. This was awesome.
This video also affirmed how much I love the separate armies approach RD took. Each of the conflicts just have so much care and consideration for the characters involved and their previously established relationships.
It would have been great to also get a part for begnion in radiant dawn. Maybe following the dude who idolized zelgius or playing as Zelgius and freeing Sephiran.
@@alexmartin6561 Give us Levail and I'll happily take him.
Zihark is my all time favorite Fire Emblem character, can't wait to watch your video!
Update: As a huge Fire Emblem fan and an advocate for the series' great writing and characters, I must say I found this video incredible. You explained just how three dimensional my boy Zihark is.
I've always loved his "fighting to end the hate" mentality, and seeing just how challenging the events in Radiant Dawn were on him made me respect him even more.
Excellent work as usual, and thank you so much for giving my favorite character the respect he deserves.
This has to be my favourite Support Science yet. I was aware of what Zihark's MO was but I never looked at him betraying Daein as a war with himself. This opened my eyes, I respect Zihark a lot more than I already did now. Thank you Ghast.
Zihark defecting is quite clearly the canon route IMO because it's a one way street in the sense that once he defects, he can't come back to Daein. Nice video, I thought you forgot about posting it or something.
Some people complain that the fact Jill and Zihark don't immediately defect is bad writing but it really isn't because the laguz launched a foreign invasion and this time around, the leadership isn't racist unlike in PoR. It goes to show that when circumstances are different, morally upright characters can find themselves in a moral quandary.
It's a DAMN shame Zihark doesn't get more of a spotlight in the story as a whole, because his arc is such a clear symbol of the social climate of Tellius that it gives him a really strong personal stake in the plot of both games, especially Radiant Dawn. Honestly, I'd have loved to see him as a protagonist. His story has so much potential that would've fit the story of the Tellius duo perfectly. Plus, he just FEELS like a hero in terms of his personality.
Also, I ship him with Ilyana lowkey
2:17 rip ilyana
Wow. I just remembered that she was an enemy first. lmao.
I'm curious, what is your opinion on Jill and her moral issues regarding the same thing? Jill is someone who was shown the truth of both sides of the Beorc/Laguz struggle, and she chose the path that was best for her country in FE9 and 10. She too has morals, but unlike Zihark she remains steadfast in the belief that a country can change for the better, though she is less optimistic than Micaiah. Perhaps this is due to her station as the leader of Talrega, but Jill has influence and renown in Daein and can make a change for the better.
The only way she defects in RD is when Haar or Mist talk to her, and while these people are important to her no one shames her for fighting to better Daein. Jill is very aware, from her base conversation in 3-6, that Pelleas isn't making the right choice, but none of her enemies tell her she is wrong for staying with Daein. Lethe even tells her how much she respects her as a warrior and friend, and Jill continues to do what she thinks is right, by saving her country and making it better from the inside. It's truly interesting to see how similar she is with Zihark in their dilemma but also how the right choice for them lies on opposite sides.
This has to be the second support science better than the one on Eliwood, right beside Celica's.
I always found Zihark interesting though I hardly used him that much, so I didn't get into his supports and other conversations through out both games. But this video helped me understand his character much more and now I feel like putting him in my top ten favourites.
He's basically what Corrin should have been, but oh God, the contrast is too great it's almost unbelievable...!
That's a very interesting observation I didn't think of until now.
Both characters are meant to be conflicted because of the position they're put in: _remain loyal to their friends or fight for what they believe is right._
It works as a great example of *"execution matters more than ideas when writing."*
Damn you made me want Zihark in Heroes even more than before. Excellent job on this one Ghast!
We need more Tellius in general in FEH
Well hey it appears you've gotten your wish! And he's a freaking ninja!
Wow I really need to get to playing the Tellius games, I knew Zihark was a fan favourite but jeez is he well written. He's a great contrast the the usual Navarre archetype, is a developed character and is another reason I need to play these games. Great editing and voice acting again, these are really great videos.
I definitely recommend them. There's a lot of world building, and a lot of the characters have a lot of depth. They're definitely my favorite pair of Fire Emblem games.
Level Zero Only thing keeping me away from them is the price at the moment, I think the original Wii's can play GameCube games so I think I'm good on that front.
ShadedHydra Yeah, I play both on my Wii.
I actually got both games during the Brawl hype train, which is how I discovered Fire Emblem in the first place. Due to that, I got them both at the original price.
Best of luck getting your hands on the games, though. They're some of the best Fire Emblem has to offer.
Level Zero Alright so it's just the money situation then. I'll hopefully have it by the end of the year then.
Level Zero I played FE7 first and played some of the other games. I played Path of Radiance with Ike but I rented it back then when I played it. I never heard about a sequel for the game surprisingly and want to get the games but they are expensive to an extent. It all depends on the seller
One quote that actually made me shed a tear was mordecai saying: “you have no fang or tail but you are a beast brother zee-hark”
Mordecai is so wholesome and zihark and him have such a good friendship
I find the Tellius series incredibly underrated in terms of it's writing and I'm glad to see videos like this. You did a great job. Excited to see more.
It's so rough that letting Zihark choose the moral path makes part 3 infinitely more difficult
This is an amazing video. It makes me feel ashamed for never using him in either PoR or RD. I plan on using him in my next playthrough. Also, it is readily apparent that if there was a game made from Zihark's point of view, it would blow Fates out of the water, especially given that it is possible to sympathize with all involved. Great job.
GeorgeKinsill fair enough not using him though. Stefan is better then both Mia and Zihark combined in PoR due to those insane bases and Mia will be closer to tier 3 by the time Zihark rejoins.
I immediately used him on my first run because I rolled a godawful Mia and ended up really liking him.
Yay! Another support science! Voice acting still on point, good job everyone!
I really like Ike and Zihark's differing reasons for being so open-minded, as well. For Ike, he's naive, and was sheltered, the very meaning of the Fool arcana in tarot. He's just a naturally good person who never knew any better or worse than he does and did. He made mistakes, and learned from the consequences. He possibly never even knew much that beast-people exist. While Zihark, well, we don't know about his past beyond having had a Laguz girlfriend that he absolutely loved, but it is probable that his open-mindedness came from knowing of the racism first-hand, likely even from before he and his girlfriend met, knowing how Daein held Laguz slaves.
ZIhark's actor not only sounds on-point for the character, but wonderful in general! He has such a nice tenor to his voice. It was such a neat detail to include in this, too! I was pleasantly surprised the moment I heard the voices. Ilyana and Lethe were pleasant standouts, too. Zihark is a fantastic, no doubt about it, and you did a phenomenal job explaining exactly why.
Worth the wait, always wanted to hear more about Zihark. Also glad you kept the voice acting over from the Hector video, a nice touch!
Great now I feel terrible for all the times I had Zihark not defect to the Greil Mercenaries.
If only radiant dawn had actual supports and we could see what hes thinking on both sides.... iirc Jill can also defect. God radiant dawn was so close to being the perfect FE with just a few major things holding it back.
Man every single one of these videos makes me go on emotional roller coasters with characters I never even knew I would care about. And I love it. Keep up the good work Ghast.
Hey folks! Thanks for watching! Please leave a like and let me know what you think down below. I read all the comments! If you're new to the channel, please *subscribe!*
Great job Ghast! Your effort really shines through here. You deserve any new subs you get.
Long live Fire Emblem and Zihark for Heroes
Leave a link?
lol, woops
You know, the sad thing is that the same racism happens in real life. Radiant Dawn is a sad story of war and Zihark is just
someone who is very conflicted. The only problem with sending Zihark to the the laguzes is that the Dawn Brigade sucks so you'll take a heavy blow sending him away.
Zihark is one of my all time favorite characters. He is he second enemy that joins Ike though. The thunder mage is technically an enemy in the defend map you recruit her on.
What a great analysis! You presented Zihark in a way I never thought about.
Thinking more, his character highlights greatly the multiple intersections of our identities. He identifies as a citizen of Daein and an activist for equality. How terrible it is when one of your identities conflicts with another. His conflicting identities; how prejudice and discriminatory his country is to laguz vs his commitment to acceptance and equality. This is a wonderful distinction from the overused “black and white,” everything-perfectly-falls-in-place character.
Conflicting identities reside within all of us and that’s what makes Zihark so relatable.
18:34 - 18:39 Yeah, obviously, one is a scrub class (except on Valentia/Tellius) who can only wield Lances and the other is one of the best infantry classes which has Swords and sometimes Axes.
Join laguz alliance or stay with Daein
*Yes/No*
In all seriousness Zihark is one of the few characters that benefitted from radiant dawn, Due to RD's shoddy writing (My opinion) most characters from the first game are lacking improvement or have even gotten worse ASTRID!
Those introduced aren't helped either due to the lack of real supports and they end up being so underdeveloped that I dont even care enough to form an opinion on them
But Zihark's moral dilemma is something you would expect to get from a main character and only made me want to see him succeed more after POR when he killed everything with a forged gamble killing edge
Also Whoever voiced zihark is the new daddy
@@Docaccino B_A_Y_O_N_N_E_T_A
RD was such a mixed bag for me
I love the world, game play, scale etc. But what happened to all the characters I know and love?? Sure they were there and sure they were playable, but the writing for minor characters and the "supports" killed me.
@@Docaccino Obviously Fire Emblem is underrepresented and pales in comparison to the prevalence of Xenoblade on the roster.
Thing is, what you have with Zihark and his branching paths would only work well with a side charachter, given the context of the rest of the story.
@@zihark8444 I replayed RD recently, I feel like the game isn't necessarily about the characters, but about Tellius and its tribulations. We get a lot of backstory on Lehran and Zelgius for example. Haar has conversations with a lot of the bosses. Sanaki learns she is a false apostle. Soren learns he is the son of Ashnard and the true prince of Daein.
I very much agree with everything you've said about Zihark and find him to be very admirable in his mindset and endeavors withing the game; the only thing I would disagree with is the title of the video itself. I wouldn't label him as a social justice warrior, he's more of a an activist and a revolutionary in a world that truly heavily oppresses people of different races to the point of murder and slaughter. Frankly, he seemed very reasonable withing the games and his world needed someone like him to exist and fight for the lives of those around him, but I have a feeling if he came to ours he would retain a much different perspective despite holding onto the same beliefs of equality and justice among all people. Social justice warriors, as the stereotype that we are personally becoming accustomed to in modern society, tend to be people who claim equality (much like Zihark, and im sure with similarly good intentions) but in a society of tiers that is nowhere near as vulgar as the one where he has come from. Depending on what country you live in (I currently live in the U.S.), all people have comparable rights to better themselves and no one is spat upon for simply being different BY THE SOCIETY ITSELF. The cruelty of the world shown in the game was so widespread that it was integrated in their way of life to be cruel and unfair to laguz and spur hatred between the races; in our world (again depending on country), while people do treat each other unfairly, the vast majority of people can respect one another as human beings and those who do not treat each other equally are looked down upon by society. Disputes between people based on race, sec, age, or gender are often more personal viewpoints rather than ones that our society has founded. With that said, I'd feel like Zihark would agree that our current society doesn't have much injustice to rebel against and would more likely be reasonably happy living in peace here rather than disturbing it unnecessarily.
A great analysis of my absolute favorite Fire Emblem character. Great stuff Ghast. I'm sure you have a list, but I might suggest Tauroneo as a possible subject. I don't know if he has enough good supports or RD combat dialogue, but I really love him as a character similar to Zihark.
Most loyal-to-my-now-evil-country characters just die tragically in Fire Emblem as a boss character. Tauroneo defects and fights his own emperor to save his country, something most of these types of characters never do. It gels with me that he can see his national loyalty in a more nuanced way. All the other characters in FE recluctanly fight and die to wage a war of evil, which always felt like a form of cowardice; hiding behind "loyalty" to avoid making the choice of shattering your identity by turning traitor (shoutout to Duessel, only other one to do it).
Tauroneo fights for Daein in a brave way in FE9, and then helps rebuild it from the ground up as a loyal, good man and soldier in RD. Also his hair game might challenge for series-best, despite his weird pearl armor. Maybe you can do a "Top 5 Virtuous Traitor" episode. Just random thoughts, great stuff man.
My favourite character (well, one of them) in the series in a Support Science? There truly is a god.
This is a very well thought out analysis of one of my favorite FE characters. Thanks for the walk down memory lane. When I was a teen I had a big crush on Zihark because he was cute, a good person, and I had a feeling we might get along in real life. I also had a big crush on Soren but deep down I knew I didn't think we would like each other if we were to meet in real life.
This video has officially made Zihark my favorite Fire Emblem character of all time. Thanks Ghast!
These videos really help remind me why I love Fire Emblem. Great work, really. The Tellius series has such amazing potential with all the hard to trigger conversations it has. Really goes to show the writers had a vision for EVERY character not only the protagonists and their close circle, even if they knew most people wouldn't get to see their evolution. Thanks for bringing those efforts to light, and for showcasing some of the interactions between personal favorite characters of mine like Zihark and Ilyana. I can't wait to see more of these great, underrated characters covered by you :) Thank you!
people talking about zihawk's depth but overhere i'm just pointing out that ilyana convosation as an example that sure she's not a complex character, she can have moments that aren't her one note trope, her convosation with micaiah in the same stage is also very well done too.
Not going to lie, the only reason I support Ilyana with Zihark in PoR is just so I can get the unique recruitment dialogue mentioned in this video. While still not anything worthwhile, I thought that brief conversation characterized her in a way much better than either games did at all.
Zihark for me was just a guy that i thought was a cool character and i would bench Mia for (in both games).
I liked his design and his desire to unite Laguz and Beorc but never imagined he was a so well-written and deep character since i didn't bother with his supports in PoR or conversation with other characters in RD. Great video Ghast! You've made me like him even more now(and also want him in Heroes even more).
hibi :v obviously a person with melia pfp has good taste
Well the voting is going on right now, lets hope he wins.
Excellent video!
Given the focus of the video its only natural for the focus to be on Zihark and racism vs laguz. One thing that gets left behind, RD in particular is kind of bad for this, is that the racism did go both ways. It's not really relevant HERE, but Tellius and the dynamics between the two races become a lot more intricate when we appreciate that fact.
Nice video. I would like to see you do a support science on Jill next. I think she has some of the most internal struggles and character growth in the Tellius Fire Emblem games.
Jill is probably the only character in the Tellius games that had a compelling moral struggle in both PoR and RD.
Great episode I’m actually surprised someone got more character from radiant dawn
Also Zihark x Illyana ftw
I watched all of your support science videos and I gotta say, I never saw any TH-camr like you who analyzed any video game characters as great as you Ghast. You're truly coming along with your support science series and I'm looking forward to the next future videos
To any authors or aspiring authors: This is how you write a character that has experienced loss. Zihark's loss guides his actions, but does not dominate his personality.
Bad Cactus i think that if they needed to hear this, they weren't going very far anyways
Phenomenal job Ghast. I couldn't be happier that one of my favorite Tellius characters got an amazing video. Keep it up dude.
As a person who analyzes characters himself, this is impressively done.
I love Zihark. He kind of reminds me of Spiderman or Nightwing from the comics... I always try to make use of him in every playthrough for PoR and RD
One thing that always confused me is why Zihark and Stefan never had a conversation. Seems like they'd get on like a peanut butter and jelly. Especially since they both want a place where Beorc, Laguz, and mixed children can live happily
Zihark is my favorite fire emblem character. Glad you made this video.
Really neat and insightful. Glad I could lend assistance to this, even if it was with just a few little voice lines.
Keep up the good work, soldier!
Ghast, getting the voice actors for these essays is so indicative of your dedication to this content. It’s really, really good. Thanks for this series.
These video essays are amazing, Ghast. Support Science episodes are similar to essays I have to write for a teacher who gives you a 0 for having a being verb in the thesis statement. They are amazing in almost every sense from their structure to their content. I hope that one day I can write at the same level.
I think Ilyanna is the first enemy unit to join your army in Path of Radiance.
Soviet Jambo Uppercut Wait, is she an edge lord Navarre archetype now?!
This... This is incredible...... I had no idea how conflicted he was.. Truly masterful writing. It’s a shame we don’t get these rich side stories much anymore in FE.
Thank you for doing such a great analysis about my fav character in the Tellius Games besides Ike.
I mean I like Mia kinda but I hated it that she got all the hype while I always thought Zihark was the way more interesting character...
I know Jill can make the same decision to defect, but I wish that Haar had the option to defect to Daein. Not only would the last Daein chapters in part 3 be more bearable but story-wise, he decision could be about honoring Shiharam or something.
This was fantastic from start to finish. Awesome character breakdown and analysis of probably my favorite Fire Emblem character of all time. Also, the voice acting was legit stellar.
That Zihark voice. I swoon. Dayum, Daddy. Haha.
Also... Ghast mentions Navarre, he gets my attention.
Zihark is the most underrated Fire Emblem character of all time, both for story and combat.
Now I really wanna see one of these on Soren. He is a really interesting character in my opinion and very deep as well
Haven't looked at this channel or video series in ages; thank you for finally looking at a Tellius character! He's a great example of the type of depth and nuance that endears me to its cast as much as it does, and I hope you get to do more. The voice acting was on point and a great addition as well.
It looks like a few people misconstrued your choice of labeling per the title, but you're technically correct. I get it's still hip to group the worst examples unto a label and say that's the only relevant meaning of it, but PoR and RD *were* considerably progressive in their narrative and should be acknowledged as such.
Can we please arrange it so you and your team localize the FE 17, whenever it gets released? Holy crap this writing and voice-acting are gorgeous. Great job, Ghast.
Should tell this that Zihark does have a conversation with Nailah in the part 3 finale.
IS must be from Daein considering they won't put Laguz in Heroes
This is honestly hurtful. It brings me back so many memories. Thank you for engaging in the tellius series. Radiant Dawn is my favorite and first ever fire emblem and I can't get over how gorgeous the stories in both its prequel and sequel.
Zihark always was my favourite Tellius character, and your work here only reinforces my feeling. Good job, Ghast!
19:55 "Cool trippy lightshow there, want to see my backflip slice?"
Just found this video, and it reinforces why I absolutely ADORE Zihark. He’s trying to be that middle ground between laguz and beorc in the wish for liberation and unity, and I absolutely love it. He’s always on a front line on the field and in my heart
I always have to wonder, that since they ended up cutting a Zihark/Ike support in PoR, if Zihark's path would have been somewhat different in RD, if he was closer to Ike than he is in canon? Perhaps he would have immediately left Daein without even needing to talk to Lethe or Mordecai, or he might have even been a member of the Greil Mercenaries after the events of the first game, or even after the first part of RD. Or even be a Gallian mercenary, in the latter situation?
I played these games when I was WAYYYY younger and never bothered with supports. This is giving me a whole new appreciation for these characters!
“The first enemy unit that can be recruited to Ike’s side” Does everyone forget ilyana?
I didn't think much of most Tellius characters, didn't really get the time to do multiple playthroughs. Thanks for this Ghast, I have to look more into Zihark. I missed plenty with him, something I should fix as his character is one I would have adored then instead of just now. These are so damn incredible, looking forward to your next SS most but totes respect the time they need. Thanks again sir, showing this fire emblem fan another character I've grossly overlooked.
Brom, the perfect Daddy... -Zihark 2018
Thank you for giving me even more motivation for having Zihark defect to the Laguz Alliance. I already do so because I know he cares about the laguz but I never figured that staying with Daein would affect him THAT much. Pretty good video.
I've recently found your channel and watched this whole series. These are amazing! I'm glad that you are looking into the real depths of these characters and games! Please never stop making these great breakdowns of fun characters!
Really good video, thanks! I was really impressed at the depth of things you found about Zihark. I loved the character and always kind of new the struggle, but not to that extent. Very great character and story.
Absolutely amazing work here Ghast! Really, I've always loved this character, but after this I can say he's one of my top favorites of the entire franchise.
Keep up the great work!
Man I wish there was more videos like this going in depth about the characters from this game specifically
I find it very interesting that he recruits himself during the battle.
This is interesting; a support science where the focus isn’t on supports, but rather in-battle conversations. That’s pretty cool, and it makes me wish I’d tried Radiant Dawn back before it got absurdly expensive.
...I know I’m probably super-late for this, but this episode makes me think you could do a support science on Caeda using her Shadow Dragon conversations. What can be said about a woman so devoted to her love, yet also willing to flirt with enemy soldiers to get them to defect?
Zihark has always been my favorite character. I only knew the basic stuff. From the wiki. And now that I know everything that goes on Zihark's head... It just makes me love his character more. As much as I love Felicia, Zihark will and always be my favorite character from the Fire Emblem series. He's relatable. In the Daein route, he's tragic. And in the Crimea route, he's probably one of the best characters to ever come out of Fire Emblem.
I'm tempted to make a joke about how the most likable SJW is a fictional character but that'd just be Mangs level of savage.
Do it
cringe
Mangs level of savage is not being much of a savage
good that sjws are already fictional characters for the most part
Tyoto Triumphs most so-called SJWs are full Apu
I have always loved Zihark as both a unit and a character and I'm glad that you made this video cause it made me find a few things out that I didn't know about him. Great video as usual.
Illana is the first unit to be recruited on Ike side!
I've been waiting two years to watch this video and after finishing Radiant Dawn this was one of the first things on my mind to go back and watch
Great analysis on the character here! Tellius gave great depth to many of it's characters. Would still love to see one on Haar someday.
That is some damn good voice acting and production value. I always did like Zihark, unlike so much of the cast he had an internal struggle that was deep and relatable.
Also, I'm clearly biased, but I'd love to see you talk about Selena/Severa.
Jesus Christ, this video is so insightful, it should be required viewing by any Fire Emblem fan.
Zihark's conflict represents the best aspects of the series' narrative: Loyalty, camaraderie and fighting for a good cause.
Also, the editing and voice acting is superb! The production values on these videos have skyrocketed. Congrats to everyone!
I always had Zihark join Ike! Always recruit when possible is how I would play. Also, I liked Zihark and Ilyana together.
This is the second time one of your Support Sciences has made me tear up (first was Gerrik). This is what I love about the Fire Emblem fandom. For ever waifubait vid, there's someone who puts out quality, thought-provoking content like this.
Wooh! My boi Zihark is finally getting the recognition he deserves!
You should do Naesala and/or Zelgius! Naesala is great because he's always perceived as a typical bad guy, but when you find out about how he was being controlled by the blood pact that's a really powerful and character defining moment that contrasts with everything you know about him before that, and his relationships with the Serenes is a big deal too. Zelgius potentially being Micaiah and Sanaki's father, Ike's greatest rival, servant to Sephiran (Who also has an amazing character), Greil's apprentice, loyal to Daien. There is so much to digest there that I think most people can miss very easily if they're not paying very very close attention.
Man, these support sciences are really fucking good. More please!