Nightmares Don't Last Forever & TSC Selection Process · 6:43pm Dec 18th, 2011
So, why NDLF? What made it special, why not 'Night's Favored Child' or some of the other stories where Nightmare Moon won?
Well, to start with, I'll point out that NDLF is not the only story going into TSC, however, it had something I could use and a good purpose...
NDLF is one of the fics where not only did NMM win, she also takes Twilight as an aide/slave and the alicorn's personality is friendly enough not to blast Sweetie into smithereens for being from another dimension, mentioning Celestia or just getting in her way to ask a question.
It provides the opportunity to show Sweetie that not all 'monsters' are really Monsters, and she could learn a bit more before getting thrown into more dangerous places. Sweetie, as she is, would not survive long in some of the worlds that are coming up. She's learning, growing, and also adapting to her situation.
She's still a child. There are a lot of things happening that will allow her to survive, possibly even thrive, but she cannot just simply jump into the Wasteland and survive. Hell, at least Littlepip had a gun you know?
Another important factor was the comedy. One of my objectives with TSC is to cover several genres with it, Dark, Comedy, Sad, Normal (as far as it can go with an interdimensional unicorn), Shipping, etc. There are some exceptions, of course, but for the most part it will be all over the place even as things become more involved.
I can tell you guys that the story has 18 fics already confirmed for it by their original authors and I am adding more soon (I hope!).
Now, the thing is, each story has to be allowed by the author in its use. I guess I could just use the world without asking, but that feels slightly insulting to me. If anypony wanted to use "The Empty Room" for a side story, I'd like it if they would ask and I'd let them.
So, what is needed in a story for it to be included in TSC? Well there's three main points:
1) It has to have a plot that is going somewhere, and sufficiently advanced for me to use in some way.
2) It also has to allow for Sweetie to be part of the story (even if TSC would effectively be non-canon). And this is very important, because while I have several fics I love (Allegrezza for example) they are focused in specific characters who would not benefit at all from Sweetie butting in. And If I went ahead and threw her in, the story would not focus on the same thing, therefore making the crossover pointless, I might as well just reference the fic without insulting the author by borrowing his/her world and not even showcasing it. (I've seen this happen with other fics that will remain unnamed).
3) It has to allow Sweetie to grow/learn in some way and I don't mean only in learning spells. If that was the case, any world with a Twilight in it would do. Like I said above NDLF helped her learn that not all "monsters" are that, so she can learn about preconceptions. So, if you suggest a fic, think about it... how can Sweetie advance? What can she learn besides an awesome power?
Regrettably this does not mean all stories that match the criteria will be added... not only would that be a crazy gamble, but I don't think I could manage *that* in the next 30 years. The story does have a planned ending, after all! I also have to take into account how well they match up with the story and also make sure it doesn't get repetitive.
As the story progresses, I hope to be able to make it more clear in how she's grown. Sweetie is going to change. Three chapters from now, she wouldn't ever act like she did in the prologue or chapter 1. Four chapters on? Five? She's growing from all the worlds and... other factors. This next chapter with "The Light Never Goes Out" will teach her several important lessons. Some of which she might forget, some of which will stay with her till the end.
I hope you all keep enjoying the story, and that I cleared up a bit the selection process for those that were wondering how it worked!
~WD
I enjoy your story very much, and it is interesting to see an author's reasoning around how they are building a story. It's a way to learn and it gives insight into the writing process. I sure hope to see more blogs touching on your work like this.
This is so awesome. An epic Pony-verse crossover. Just, please dont lose interest halfway. I know we can't control your life, but I hate it when a fix gets going, herbs author promises 20 chapters, then he quits after 5. Just know you have the support of he entire fandom. We love ya, Brony!
Okay, cool. Good selection process, there. makes sense all around, too. You're still adding more to use? Cool. Still hope for mine, because this looks like a really awesome project.
After reading NDLF I suspected you might be going the route of "Sweetie Learns Lessons" and I'm glad to hear it confirmed. I can't wait to read more chapters! I love this so far.
i have to say one thing and one thing only:
i hope this story doesn't end for a good long while
it's about the only story on here that really deserves more stars than allowed by the rating system
You can't wait for inspiration. You have to go after it with a club.~Jack London
Hello again. seeing your selection rules. got me thinking of the PERFECT fic that not only will let sweetie belle grow, but will also get her ready for the wasteland
. 'By the emperors grace' by Damnos. it's seems to be heading in a gritty direction.
and i'm not sure but i think she can learn ' even in the face of the unstopable, you can suceed if you keep at it'.
again if you can get Damnos permission, then you can add it before Fallout equestria.
. though you may want to wait abit before adding it,
it,s kinda dark.