The Laughing Shadow sequel · 4:43am Feb 1st, 2015
I've been toying with the idea for a sequel to TLS. I've got a fairly solid outline in my head, it's just a matter of getting shit on paper. However, one thing has been making me nervous: I'm afraid it might be seen as a cash-in, or something to that effect. From what a lot of people have told me, either through lovely comments on the story, or through some fantastic PM's, the first story really resonated with people, and brought a lot of joy.
I want to hit that same level of quality and style with this piece.
So, I thought I'd put the question out to you, the people who honestly matter on the story. Do you think I should go ahead with this? Do you think there's more to tell of the world, of the races, of Jack? Or should I keep my narrative where it ended, well resolved, with a rounded cast and good memories. I'd honestly love opinions right now while I'm doing some of this, as I'm about 130 pages in thanks to my buddy JaketheGinger, and am not sure if I want to go in too deep, ya know?
With that in mind, I think a prereader or two, if I do decide to swing for the stands, would be lovely, and if anyone who has read the previous story would be willing to offer their time, I'd be much appreciated—in the event I do, you know, go ahead and write it.
Whatcha think, boys?
Oh shit: ps, pic by eve-ashgrove. If you're needing a character piece, I'd recommend her. Good pricing and very quick. Lovely combo.
I think it wrapped up nicely as it is. BUT, if you feel like you want/need to continue the story then,
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i say go for it, but only if you want to. while pleasing your readers is great and all, i've always been of the mind that writing is an expression of you, not them. but then again, i don't post my stories, so some might say i have no right to talk.
I say go for it! It's definitely a world that has a lot of room for exploration. I take it from what you've said that it'd still follow Jack specifically? Would it pick up from the epilogue's setup?
I think that could work, but it also would be structured a little differently from the original fic, with kind of the more relaxed school setting but danger growing on the horizon. That kind of thing really clicks with me and would be hard to replicate. But I'd at least give it a try.
And let me know, I'd be willing to help with prereading work, though I might have to go back through the original and refresh it in my head.
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Here's the thing, and I don't want to get into too many details about the story to get people hyped for something I'm afraid might not be up to my standard of quality, but it'd be two stories, each updating at about the same time to show two sides of the same coin. One focusing on Jack traveling to the old country with Celestia and Rarity, and another story just as important to the overarching plot focusing on Gilda assisting Twila and protecting her as she assumes a royal position.
It'd be a few months afterward, after Jack gets back from a job she was helping Will with.
I appreciate the preread offer, buddy. I'll make sure to give you a shout if I end up needing it.
I would love a sequel to The Laughing Shadow; it's one of my favorite stories on this site and one of the few long stories I go back to read all the way through every few months. I'd love to return to that continuity and learn more about the unique lore and see that version of the characters we know and love again. That said though, yeah, only do the sequel thing if you want to. Either way, I , as a reader, could never be less than satisfied because you've already given us a gem in TLS.
If you have a story to tell, then by all means tell it.
I'll read the hell out of it either way.
I feel conflicted emotions about the possibility of a sequel to Laughing Shadow. On one hand you had written an excellent story, with a fantastic plot and setting, (relatively) relatable characters and wrapped it up very nicely at the end of it. On the other seeing those same characters that we fell in love with again, in a new story exploring aspects of the world that we didn't see in the first one. As a fan of Laughing Shadow, I'm excited at the prospect of one of my favorite stories continuing , yet at the same time fearful for the same reason. Sequels for stories that have a satisfying conclusion have a tendency (If not done correctly) to fall flat when compared to the original, often times hurting both the original idea and it's own story. Especially if it does not live up to fan expectations. My answer to your question is that: Yes a sequel would be nice, if you chose to do one, but not at all necessary. If think that if you choose to go ahead with this project that you would give the original premise you set forth in Laughing Shadow with enough respect to make a successful sequel, instead of fan-pandering like I've seen in a lot of sequels. In conclusion to this long winded comment; go for if its something that you want to do.
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I am extremely interested in this part. Gilda was a character I loved in the original story but who was somewhat limited by the role she needed to play. And in general, if your concern is that it will feel like a retread, having a focus on different characters than Rarity & Jack (who are, of course, fantastic, but who have had a complete narrative arc) might be just what you need.
I'd say write what you want. I really enjoyed your setup, afterall I shamelessly used All-Folk for my humanized Alicorns a few times..thought mostly as a placeholder title.
Seriously though I really would like to see more, just...you know...not at a Merk pace..
I wish to also cast my vote of 'yes'. While I really liked the first one, the ending (epilogue) felt just a little rushed and I really wanted to see what happened to the others.
While some may be hesitant about a sequel to a beloved story, you may get more readers by focusing on more characters and those they interact with. So it may just all balance out. Unless all the old readers go and downvote the sequel just because. But I'm sure we won't do that.
Bronies (and pegasisters) are friendly people! 
I say yes. It actually feels like there is room for more stories to tell, and just the fact that you have doubts about cannibalizing your fic reassures me. The ones who doesn't hesitate only wants the money.
I like your stories. The Laughing Shadow is a story I've recommended to friends to read and they've liked it as much as I do. I use that story as an example on how to write an adventure, love scene, dialogue, etc. when asked by other writers of different fandoms, and in most cases it helps. If you want to continue with a sequel that is up to you, I just wish you all the best and I will be looking forward to your first instalment.
I would Love a sequel.
Applejack! :flail:
Also, if you need help, I can offer it, but I will be slow and somewhat methodical about it. I will also be more particular about Jack's story than Gilda's. I don't mind helping with both, but I do have my biases and likes.
Maybe with that in mind, I might be better off helping with Gilda's story than Jack's so I don't ruin it.
There are two questions to ask.
First: Why not a sequel? That would be awesome!
Secondly: Why not Zoidberg?
What about your other series? Putting it off for a bit?
At the end of the first one , I found myself day dreaming about what jack and her crew would be doing in days late, grandios adventures , playfull Hijinx . Passionate growing love. There is so much room for more in your world, and I along with it seems several dozen stalkers here all agree ^_^ so.
HAVE ALL MY YESSES!
Mane medic
C'mone, chant with me!
If you have a story to tell, please do so!
Me, personally, I would love to read about more of their adventures. Maybe even both Rarity and AJ going on one? A damsel and her knight?
Or make Rarity a total badass, ripping their enemies' throats with her bare hands. I don't care. Whatever you write - it'll be stellar. That I am sure of.
If you need a prereader or something - I volounteer. I would be honored to do so.
Very yes.
Do it. I'd preread if you'd like!
TLS is just screaming for a sequel. There are concepts put forth that may be explored in detail, such as:
- Twila and Celestia's relationship
- The school: there are bound to be secrets in here
- Chylene: character exploration
Another person has said that the world-building in this story is amazing. I heartily agree.