BoM/TWS Message Forum

I definitely understand and I know there's characters I myself feel intimidated in writing (Stephanie and Andrea for example). Also admittedly I myself can be kind of protective of some characters since they're usually characters I feel like I've put the most effort in defining so if they're written in a way that feels inconsistent -- or really, completely at odds -- with that then it can definitely irk me because it kind of makes me go "well then what was the point of writing all that in the first place" since it feels like that writing's been ignored.

I'm also running into a bit of that on my end since I've recently gotten accepted to write for a... let's say certain popular TF-themed VN; perhaps involving students and transfers. So being the newbie there's a definite intimidation factor in pitching new ideas or making sure my own ideas line up with established canon or making sure characters and stuff are consistent.

My advice has alwas been if you're going to use a character that someone else has done a lot of work in defining (not just featured in like a chapter or two) then talk to them first to get some notes on, or things to keep in mind about, said character. I'd also say for anything that could really change things in general. When I came up with the "oracle Ursula" idea it was something I made sure that Seuzz didn't have an issue with since that's obviously a big change to the setting (hey, there's a girl with actual precognitive abilities in Saratoga Falls). Same when I came up with Kristy Carlson's background and her where her family's wealth comes from since it ties into the actual lore of the setting to have them play a large role in building up Saratoga Falls.

It can definitely be intimidating to be sure but at the same time it is a collaborative thing so there's no harm in asking either. That said I know I've definitely abandoned some branches in part because core elements of them just aren't compatible with what's been established. The branch where Will becomes Paris Morrow for instance hinges on a version of Jenny that's at odds with how she's been developed.