Candela Obscura: Chapter 2 Q&A with Zehra Fazal

Tell us a little bit about your character in Candela Obscura Chapter 2.

I play Dr. Jinnah Basar—she goes by Jean. Jean is a talented surgeon, with a sharp mind and an uncanny knack for putting bodies back together, skills hard-won from her experience as a field doctor during the war. She’s dubious about the use of magick, as she’s witnessed it do more harm than good. Nonetheless, she has spent time studying it closely through her work and adventures with the Circle of Needle and Thread.

Are you afraid of the dark, or are you afraid of what’s in it?

Definitely more afraid of what’s in it. Namely, the thing I’ll inevitably break a toe on.

Do you have a favorite scary movie, series, or book? Let’s imagine you’ve suddenly found yourself in the middle of that world, what is your survival strategy?

So very many―I adore horror! I have to say I’m quite partial to the horrors of history. I’ve always been fascinated by the Hungarian Countess Elizabeth Bathory, the notorious serial killer from the late 16th century who allegedly bathed in the virginal blood of her young victims. I remember checking out a book from the library about her when I was probably way too young and hiding it from my mother. So, if I were a young maiden captured for the countess’ bath, I would immediately try to charm the countess. Convince her that I have more value alive than as a bath bomb.

What does your character define a monster as?

Jean defines a monster as one who takes advantage of the suffering of those who are most vulnerable. She’s seen such monstrous things happen in her own family, perhaps even facilitated by her own hands. At times, she feels the most dangerous monster looks back at her in the mirror.

What’s a fear your character overcame to join Candela Obscura?

Practically speaking, the fear of getting dirty. Jean does not like to get dirty. Unless she’s elbow deep in a thoracic cavity.

Describe this next chapter in 3 words.

Cinematic, frantic, romantic.