First, an introduction into the story would seem to be needed.
This story is the result of an interest in returning to writing of certain members who contributed to the Dark Flame story threads. While the original Dark Flames story seems to have dwindled and ground to a halt, myself and some other writers
still have an interest in the characters that we created and developed in those stories. However, out of respect to the many writers who have contributed to those stories and eithere do not have the time or the inclination to pursue them further, the idea came about that rather than proceed with that story without the input of everyone who works hard to make the thread what it was, it would be a much better idea to make a fresh start so to speak, without locking the original thread into a conclusion without the input of everyone responsible.
This new story thread, it is hoped, will serve the dual propose of allowing writers who have an interest in continuing to explore thier characters to do so, as well as attempting to make it infinatly easier for those who have no connection to the original DF books to take part in an entirely new and fresh start without having to worry about any of the history of details of the older threads.As such, the story will take place five years after whatever conclusion (which has been left open in the event of the other threads reviving at some point) of Book 5.
For those members who have been involved in the DF threads, this allows the freedom to pick up their character in any way they see fit, or to abandon their old character and start fresh. What has gone on in the five year interlude is entirely up to each individual, as there is not preconceptions of anything, and no plot already set in stone. This is not a DF story per se as much as it is a story that will have characters who have appeared in the DF in addition to any new characters that may find their way into the story. There is no assumption that the members of the DF have stayed together over the years, and no assumption that they haven't. Anything is possible. To put it simply, this story has no direct ties to the DF stories outside
the obvious past histories and freindships that the characters had when they should meet. It is also an attempt to allow people to be able let their characters grow and gain from five years worth of expeience so as to allow more play in adding new deminsions to old characters.It also allows any members who do not feel that they have the time to contribute in an
ongoing basis to be allowed to pop in and out in cameo appearences without feeling that they are obligated long term to anything. It's entirely up to the indivudual how much, if at all, they wish to participate.
For new posters, it also avoids the complications that arise when trying to incorporate yourself into such a tightnit story with the history the DF had. I know from experience how daunting it can seem to attempt to join a story that has been going on for such a long time. By doing the story in this manner, it eliminates any need for new writers to worry about knowing the
history of the DF, as that history has no real bearing on whatever road this story may take save as to how the original DF character choose to portray their relationships with other DF characters. This story belongs as much to the new writer as it does to the DF writers. What character you write is entirely your decision, and how you relate to any other characters is between you and that character's writer. The only thing that is asked of anyone who contributes, new or old, are a few simple rules which are meant to promote good relations and an enjoyable writing environment rather to be restictive.
1. Above all else, it is asked that you respect everyone else and do not impose anything major on another character or another writers personal plotline that are bound to eveolve around their characters. This does not mean that a little light hearted teasing/playfullness wrong. It simply means to be courteous and not try and dictate to other writers. This is a collaboratvie effort, and if you want to try out an idea involving your character and aother, simply run it by them via this thread or PM.
2. this story is envisioned as a freeform collaboration, which means it is preffered that there be little extensive plot development taking place behind the scenes. It is understood that individuals will develop certain subplots with other characters outside the main storyline, and that a certain amount of planning and discussion go into these. However, it would be preferable if anything dealing with the main story as it develops be discussed openly and all members have a chance to share in the direction of the story.This makes everyone feel like they have as vital a role to play in shaping things as the next person, and makes the entire atmosphere much more welcoming. In essences, individual plotlines are at your discretion, but anything that effects the main story line and as a result all characters should be open to the entire communities input.
3.when posting, please remember that not all writers are available to post at the same rate or timetable. I myself have been guilty of this myself, so I understand the feeling of wanting to post but waiting on someone else. But the fact is, people have other things to do, and some writers may not be able to post at the pace that you do. While there is no set order to posting here, please be considerate and take other peoples plotlines and timetables into consideration before making a post that advances to the next day of the story for example. Instead of just advanceing the time frame of the story, perhaps a post developing your character, his/her background, etc..would be more constructive.
4. For the sake of story flow, please limit questions or comments to this thread, and reserve the actual story thread for in character posts.
This is all that is asked, and anyone is welcome to contribute. Remember, yes, we will be telling a story, but in the end, it's all good fun. Anyone who has any questions, or wants to contribute feel free to use this thread. It is for discussion after all.
