Revision [639]
Last edited on 2009-10-16 20:09:30 by BaxilDragon [Huge overhaul: +"Restricted", clarifications, examples, Creation/Usage sections]Additions:
====="Availability" Categories=====
====Open - Free for any use====
===Creating an Open CGL===
===Using an Open CGL===
~- Note: If a //character// is also a member of this group, their use is determined by the //character's// Availability. This is for //the group as a whole//.
====Public - Ask permission for major changes====
//This is the **default category** for TTU characters, groups and locations.//
===Creating a Public CGL===
===Using a Public CGL===
**Characters:** Assume that you may use this character in your story. However, any story events that create significant backstory or elements of their personality must be cleared with the creator. Same with events that cause major character development or physical alteration. When in doubt, ask before writing.
~- Note: If a //character// is also a member of this group, their use is determined by the //character's// Availability. This is for //the group as a whole//.
====Limited - Ask permission first====
===Creating a Limited CGL===
You're willing to let other authors' stories include or modify your CGL -- but you have firm ideas about it and need to keep an active hand in its development. If other authors offer you a cool idea for the CGL, you'll gladly work it in, but it'll require some shuffling to displace the existing cool ideas that haven't yet been written.
If you choose this option, explain your restrictions in the Notes field of your CGL page.
If the restrictions you're considering are free of spoilers and easy to explain ("this character will move to Boston in August 1998"), the default "Public" category should give you enough control -- simply mention on the CGL's wiki page what elements you haven't written into canon yet, and refer other authors to your notes. This category is more appropriate for larger restrictions ("I want to be the only author to reveal this character's backstory", "the plot arc that ends in June 1998 leaves this character a very different person", "there are things you don't know about this group yet that will be revealed in my upcoming stories"). As more of the CGL's canon is written and these objections vanish, it may be appropriate to transition them toward Public.
Other authors may take liberties that develop your CGL around the edges, but should run their vision past you before starting work. If CharacterJEDyer was Limited, such a request might run: "Hey, I'm writing a story and I want my main character to be a martial-arts student of JE's named Leyla -- a fifth-grader who JE also tutors in English every Saturday. The wiki says JE's got a college degree and mentions nothing about the kids she teaches, so that seemed like an interesting character twist for her. Would that create any problems for you?"
Be willing to accommodate or to explain why those don't fit with your own plans: "Well, in March 1997, JE will be moving across the country and can't tutor any more -- but before that it doesn't specifically conflict with anything. I had been writing my own stories under the unspoken assumption that JE's weekends were more fluid, but I can work that in. Care to give me more details about Leyla so I can write one of their tutoring sessions from JE's perspective?" However, if necessary, creators do have veto power over any stories using their CGL or changes to their CGL.
===Using a Limited CGL===
**Characters:** Assume that when you contact the creator, they will be receptive to your use of the character, but that your plans may have to be revised to take into account the creator's vision. Name-dropping and cameos will generally be OK, but ask if there's any doubt.
**Groups:** Assume that when you contact the creator, they will be receptive to your use of the group, but that your plans may have to be revised to take into account the creator's vision. Groups in this category can have new members added only if the creator approves. Name-dropping and cameos will generally be OK, but ask if there's any doubt.
~- Note: If a //character// is also a member of this group, their use is determined by the //character's// Availability. This is for //the group as a whole//.
**Locations:** Assume that when you contact the creator, they will be receptive to you setting your story there, but that your plans may have to be revised to take into account the creator's vision. The mere presence of your characters may create lasting changes. Name-dropping it will generally be OK, but ask if there's any doubt.
====Restricted - Use only in specific ways====
===Creating a Restricted CGL===
===Using a Restricted CGL===
~- Note: If a //character// is also a member of this group, their use is determined by the //character's// Availability. This is for //the group as a whole//.
**Locations:** Assume nothing about the use of this location. It's possible your characters may not even be able to access it (or know about it). Read the location's canon and wiki page, and work closely with the creator while writing your story.
====Private - For creator's use only====
===Creating a Private CGL===
===Using a Private CGL===
~- Note: If a //character// is also a member of this group, their use is determined by the //character's// Availability. This is for //the group as a whole//.
~- 'CGL' is pronounced "seagull."
====Open - Free for any use====
===Creating an Open CGL===
===Using an Open CGL===
~- Note: If a //character// is also a member of this group, their use is determined by the //character's// Availability. This is for //the group as a whole//.
====Public - Ask permission for major changes====
//This is the **default category** for TTU characters, groups and locations.//
===Creating a Public CGL===
===Using a Public CGL===
**Characters:** Assume that you may use this character in your story. However, any story events that create significant backstory or elements of their personality must be cleared with the creator. Same with events that cause major character development or physical alteration. When in doubt, ask before writing.
~- Note: If a //character// is also a member of this group, their use is determined by the //character's// Availability. This is for //the group as a whole//.
====Limited - Ask permission first====
===Creating a Limited CGL===
You're willing to let other authors' stories include or modify your CGL -- but you have firm ideas about it and need to keep an active hand in its development. If other authors offer you a cool idea for the CGL, you'll gladly work it in, but it'll require some shuffling to displace the existing cool ideas that haven't yet been written.
If you choose this option, explain your restrictions in the Notes field of your CGL page.
If the restrictions you're considering are free of spoilers and easy to explain ("this character will move to Boston in August 1998"), the default "Public" category should give you enough control -- simply mention on the CGL's wiki page what elements you haven't written into canon yet, and refer other authors to your notes. This category is more appropriate for larger restrictions ("I want to be the only author to reveal this character's backstory", "the plot arc that ends in June 1998 leaves this character a very different person", "there are things you don't know about this group yet that will be revealed in my upcoming stories"). As more of the CGL's canon is written and these objections vanish, it may be appropriate to transition them toward Public.
Other authors may take liberties that develop your CGL around the edges, but should run their vision past you before starting work. If CharacterJEDyer was Limited, such a request might run: "Hey, I'm writing a story and I want my main character to be a martial-arts student of JE's named Leyla -- a fifth-grader who JE also tutors in English every Saturday. The wiki says JE's got a college degree and mentions nothing about the kids she teaches, so that seemed like an interesting character twist for her. Would that create any problems for you?"
Be willing to accommodate or to explain why those don't fit with your own plans: "Well, in March 1997, JE will be moving across the country and can't tutor any more -- but before that it doesn't specifically conflict with anything. I had been writing my own stories under the unspoken assumption that JE's weekends were more fluid, but I can work that in. Care to give me more details about Leyla so I can write one of their tutoring sessions from JE's perspective?" However, if necessary, creators do have veto power over any stories using their CGL or changes to their CGL.
===Using a Limited CGL===
**Characters:** Assume that when you contact the creator, they will be receptive to your use of the character, but that your plans may have to be revised to take into account the creator's vision. Name-dropping and cameos will generally be OK, but ask if there's any doubt.
**Groups:** Assume that when you contact the creator, they will be receptive to your use of the group, but that your plans may have to be revised to take into account the creator's vision. Groups in this category can have new members added only if the creator approves. Name-dropping and cameos will generally be OK, but ask if there's any doubt.
~- Note: If a //character// is also a member of this group, their use is determined by the //character's// Availability. This is for //the group as a whole//.
**Locations:** Assume that when you contact the creator, they will be receptive to you setting your story there, but that your plans may have to be revised to take into account the creator's vision. The mere presence of your characters may create lasting changes. Name-dropping it will generally be OK, but ask if there's any doubt.
====Restricted - Use only in specific ways====
===Creating a Restricted CGL===
===Using a Restricted CGL===
~- Note: If a //character// is also a member of this group, their use is determined by the //character's// Availability. This is for //the group as a whole//.
**Locations:** Assume nothing about the use of this location. It's possible your characters may not even be able to access it (or know about it). Read the location's canon and wiki page, and work closely with the creator while writing your story.
====Private - For creator's use only====
===Creating a Private CGL===
===Using a Private CGL===
~- Note: If a //character// is also a member of this group, their use is determined by the //character's// Availability. This is for //the group as a whole//.
~- 'CGL' is pronounced "seagull."
Deletions:
===Open - Free for any use===
==Using an Open CGL==
~- Note: using //members// of the group in stories is determined by the //individual characters'// Availability! This merely affects //the group as a whole//.
===Public - Ask permission for major changes===
//This is the **default category** for TTU characters, locations and groups.//
==Using a Public CGL==
**Characters:** Assume that you may use this character in your story. However, any story events that reveal significant backstory or elements of their personality must be cleared with the creator. Same with events that cause major character development or physical alteration. When in doubt, ask before writing.
~- Note: using //members// of the group in stories is determined by the //individual characters'// Availability! This merely affects //the group as a whole//.
===Limited - Ask permission first===
You're willing to let other authors' stories expand on or modify your CGL -- but you have firm ideas about it and need to keep an active hand in its development. If other authors offer you a cool idea for the CGL, you'll gladly work it in, but it'll require some shuffling to displace the existing cool ideas that haven't yet been written.
You're willing to let other people use your CLG, but others should //tread with caution// -- perhaps there is hidden backstory that would affect how the character is written, or perhaps if other people use your CLG in certain ways it will disrupt your story arc. If you choose this option, explain your restrictions in the Notes field of your CGL page.
If it's only a simple restriction ("this character cannot be on the U.S. West Coast in 1998"), mention it on their wiki page, but the default "Public" category will give you enough control. Use this category for larger restrictions ("I need to be the only person to develop this character's backstory").
Other authors may take liberties that develop your CLG around the edges, but should run their broad vision past you before starting work. If CharacterJEDyer was Limited, such a request might run: "Hey, I'm writing a story and I want my main character to be CharacterJEDyer's martial arts student Leyla, a fifth-grader who JE also tutors in English every Saturday. The wiki says JE's got a college degree and mentions nothing about the kids she teaches, so that seemed like an interesting character twist for her. Would that create any problems for you?"
Be willing to accommodate or to explain why those don't fit with your own plans: "Well, in March 1997, JE will be moving across the country and can't tutor any more -- but before that it doesn't specifically conflict with anything. I had been writing my own stories under the unspoken assumption that JE's weekends were more fluid, but I can work that in. Care to give me more details about Leyla so I can write one of their tutoring sessions from JE's perspective?"
Stories won't be added to canon unless you approve of the way your CLG was used, so authors using your CLG must make a strong effort to collaborate with you. If a modification is proposed for a CLG in this category, the original author has veto power over any changes.
==Using a Limited CLG==
**Characters:**
**Groups:**
~- Note: using //members// of the group in stories is determined by the //individual characters'// Availability! This merely affects //the group as a whole//.
**Locations:**
Groups and locations in this category can have new members/residents added only if the creator approves.
===Restricted - Use only in specific ways===
==Using a Restricted CGL==
~- Note: using //members// of the group in stories is determined by the //individual characters'// Availability! This merely affects //the group as a whole//.
**Locations:** Assume nothing about the use of this location. Your characters may not even be able to access it (or know about it). Read the location's canon and wiki page, and work closely with the creator while writing your story.
===Private - For creator's use only===
==Using a Private CGL==
~- Note: using //members// of the group in stories is determined by the //individual characters'// Availability! This merely affects //the group as a whole//.
~- 'CGLs' is pronounced "seagulls."
Additions:
This page explains the various ways in which creators may contribute ideas to our shared universe while retaining the appropriate amount of control over the development of those ideas.
When creating **events or concepts** for TTU, any information you put into a story or on the wiki is //always// available for other authors' use -- the entire point of a shared setting is that all "[[WhatIsCanon canon]]" events and all world history are common to all of the stories! You can "call dibs" on events by writing their description on the wiki, or by requesting that your stories be the first ones to flesh it out, but you can't make restrictions on letting other people use the basic //idea// of the event itself. What would a TTU story be like if, for example, you couldn't mention TheChanges?
**Characters, Groups, and Locations (CGLs)** are another matter; they're unique entities that //exist in// the setting but don't //define// the setting. When filling out the "Availability" tag for a CGL that you have created, use one of the following categories:
~##**Open** - Free for any use##
~##**Public** - Ask permission for major changes## //(default)//
One note: **No matter which Availability category** a CGL is in, stories will not be added to canon if they create major conflicts with existing material. "Availability" is about how conflicts are resolved when multiple writers have different ideas about where to take the CGL.
You don't have any attachment to your CGL, and anything beyond [[WhatIsCanon existing canon]] can freely be altered (even in large ways!) to accommodate other writers' ideas. This is a perfect category for minor characters you have few plans for, or elements of a story that you intended to be a one-shot.
A CGL in this category can be modified at will //as long as the changes are consistent with [[WhatIsCanon existing canon]]//. New stories can be written without so much as consulting the creator. Backstory can be added and profound developments can be layered in. If there's a disagreement over the direction a CGL should take, whoever adds their idea to canon first gets dibs on developing the CGL.
If your CGL is Open, also add the link "CategoryOpen" to the bottom of its page to insert it into the [[CategoryOpen Open CGLs index]].
==Using an Open CGL==
**Groups:** Writers may take any liberties desired without contacting the creator. Groups can have new members/residents added or removed at will, even pivotal or highly placed ones. They can take sides in other authors' conflicts, change emphasis, become famous, scatter, or schism.
~- Note: using //members// of the group in stories is determined by the //individual characters'// Availability! This merely affects //the group as a whole//.
**Locations:** Writers may take any liberties desired without contacting the creator. Stories may be freely set there. Residents of the location may be added or removed at will, even pivotal or well-known ones. The location may be landscaped, bought or sold, destroyed, etc.
You have no problem with other authors' stories modifying your CGL -- sometimes even in dramatic ways -- but you'd like to keep some control over the broad arc of its development. You'll happily write the big plot twists that other authors throw at your CGL into your own stories, but when it simply doesn't work for your vision of the CGL you need to be able to say no.
If you choose this category, be willing to let your collaborators pitch in on the small stuff. Other authors are encouraged to take liberties with your CGL -- fleshing out parts of their personality or background (or architecture) that you have not addressed. What CharacterJEDyer generally does with her weekends, or what the inside of her home looks like, or what she studied in college, should all be fair game if they are things that neither [[WhatIsCanon canon]] nor the wiki have specified.
However, when an author's ideas would have large implications for the character, they must run their broad vision past the creator before starting work: "Hey, you haven't said anything about CharacterJEDyer's sexuality, and I was thinking of making her gay and writing a story where she hooks up with her friend Jennifer. What do you think?"
As the creator, accommodate other authors unless the request contradicts your existing plans. Even if so, do your best to reach a compromise that will give the other author something to work with: "Well, that would certainly be interesting. But JE and Jennifer live across the country from each other - plus JE's got some specifically hetero relationships in the works after moving to Las Vegas in 1997. If you did want to write JE with another woman, maybe she could go bisexual after Vegas falls apart for her in '98?" If discussions come to an impasse, you do have veto power over adding that story to canon, but the goal of the Public category is to encourage unexpected collaborations.
==Using a Public CGL==
**Characters:** Assume that you may use this character in your story. However, any story events that reveal significant backstory or elements of their personality must be cleared with the creator. Same with events that cause major character development or physical alteration. When in doubt, ask before writing.
**Groups:** Assume that you may include this group in your story. Regular members may be added or removed at will. However, any story events that significantly affect the group's visibility, ideology, membership numbers, or high-profile members must be cleared with the creator. When in doubt, ask before writing.
~- Note: using //members// of the group in stories is determined by the //individual characters'// Availability! This merely affects //the group as a whole//.
**Locations:** You may assume that stories can be set here at will, as long as the location emerges relatively unscathed. However, story events that leave lasting impressions on the landscape or population must be cleared with the creator. When in doubt, ask before writing.
You're willing to let other authors' stories expand on or modify your CGL -- but you have firm ideas about it and need to keep an active hand in its development. If other authors offer you a cool idea for the CGL, you'll gladly work it in, but it'll require some shuffling to displace the existing cool ideas that haven't yet been written.
You're willing to let other people use your CLG, but others should //tread with caution// -- perhaps there is hidden backstory that would affect how the character is written, or perhaps if other people use your CLG in certain ways it will disrupt your story arc. If you choose this option, explain your restrictions in the Notes field of your CGL page.
If it's only a simple restriction ("this character cannot be on the U.S. West Coast in 1998"), mention it on their wiki page, but the default "Public" category will give you enough control. Use this category for larger restrictions ("I need to be the only person to develop this character's backstory").
Other authors may take liberties that develop your CLG around the edges, but should run their broad vision past you before starting work. If CharacterJEDyer was Limited, such a request might run: "Hey, I'm writing a story and I want my main character to be CharacterJEDyer's martial arts student Leyla, a fifth-grader who JE also tutors in English every Saturday. The wiki says JE's got a college degree and mentions nothing about the kids she teaches, so that seemed like an interesting character twist for her. Would that create any problems for you?"
==Using a Limited CLG==
~- Note: using //members// of the group in stories is determined by the //individual characters'// Availability! This merely affects //the group as a whole//.
You're willing to let other authors use your CGL, but they should //tread with caution// -- the CGL must interact with others in a certain manner, or has immense influence/power that could throw history into a screaming left turn, or the CGL's backstory/personality is so intricate that someone else's poorly chosen dialogue could explode months worth of your plotting and writing.
This category is appropriate for characters that have complicated ongoing story arcs, and little-known groups with specific membership lists. This category also covers everything from TTU's most pivotal celebrities to the unearthly landscapes seen by failed teleporters. There's no easy way of summarizing the reasons this category might be chosen. So, if you pick this, **explain your restrictions** in the Notes field of your CGL's page.
Other authors should run their specific plans past you before starting work, and (ideally) collaborate with you during the writing and editing process as well: "Hey, I'd like to write a story in which CharacterKiasu challenges the main character and beats him in a duel to make him miss his bus to work. The fight's going to take about 30 seconds, which I know is a lot, but my character's a REALLY strong mage. Of course Kiasu won't say anything beyond the usual. You willing to work with me on that?"
Stories won't be added to canon unless the creator approves of the way their CGL was used. If a modification is proposed for a CGL in this category, the creator has veto power and is under no obligation to accommodate the other writer. Please note: Since it is more difficult to collaborate to keep Restricted CGLs in the TTU spirit, if your CGL has canon issues any admin may tell you to change it or risk removal.
In all cases, see the individual CGL's Notes field for further explanation.
==Using a Restricted CGL==
**Characters:** Assume nothing about the use of this character; read their canon and wiki page and work closely with the creator while writing your story. If also listed in CategoryFamousCharacters, may be //name-dropped// at will (actual //use// is what is restricted). If not famous, even name-dropping may require special approval.
**Groups:** Assume nothing about the use of this group. Restricted groups generally will only contain the characters the creator specifically names, and creator permission is required to have any effect on their membership, ideology, reputation, or fate.
~- Note: using //members// of the group in stories is determined by the //individual characters'// Availability! This merely affects //the group as a whole//.
**Locations:** Assume nothing about the use of this location. Your characters may not even be able to access it (or know about it). Read the location's canon and wiki page, and work closely with the creator while writing your story.
Your CGL is generally off-limits to other writers. This goes against the spirit of a shared setting and should not be chosen lightly, but it has a few acceptable uses -- perhaps there are copyright issues; perhaps you identify with a character sufficiently that sharing them with other authors would cause problems (though remember: [[WriterGuidelines No self-insertion]]); perhaps a domain in LocationTheShadowlands has enough significance for a write-up of its own but is simply inaccessible to everyone but its owner.
If you choose this option, your CGL //must not// have any significant fame or reputation; celebrities -- and even most ordinary people -- by their nature are talked to and talked about. (Imagine how hard it would be for TTU authors to write as if CharacterDennisRedwing didn't exist!) If you choose this option, it's polite to explain your reasoning in the Notes field of your CGL page (and any circumstances for which exceptions to your no-sharing policy may apply).
Other authors cannot add works that include your CGL to the wiki or to canon -- though you may make exceptions. Any wiki modifications that other people make to your CGL should be taken as gentle suggestions, and you have full authority to roll changes back. Please note: Since we can't collaborate to keep your CGL in the TTU spirit, if your private CGL has canon issues any admin may tell you to change it or risk removal.
==Using a Private CGL==
**Characters in this category:** Assume that the creator will NOT grant permission to write stories about them. Name-dropping or brief cameos MAY still be OK, but don't count on it -- you MUST contact the creator before ANY use.
**Groups in this category:** Assume that the creator will NOT grant permission to write stories about them. Other authors' stories may not impact group membership, ideology, status, etc. Name-dropping or brief cameos MAY still be OK, but don't count on it -- you MUST contact the creator before ANY use.
~- Note: using //members// of the group in stories is determined by the //individual characters'// Availability! This merely affects //the group as a whole//.
**Locations in this category:** Assume that the creator will NOT grant permission to write stories set there. Typically nobody but the creator's characters will even realize it exists. You MUST contact the creator before making ANY reference to this location.
===Trivia===
~- 'CGLs' is pronounced "seagulls."
If you have any questions about a particular CGL's availability, please contact the individual creator. If you have any questions about this as a whole, visit QuestionsPage or contact BaxilDragon.
When creating **events or concepts** for TTU, any information you put into a story or on the wiki is //always// available for other authors' use -- the entire point of a shared setting is that all "[[WhatIsCanon canon]]" events and all world history are common to all of the stories! You can "call dibs" on events by writing their description on the wiki, or by requesting that your stories be the first ones to flesh it out, but you can't make restrictions on letting other people use the basic //idea// of the event itself. What would a TTU story be like if, for example, you couldn't mention TheChanges?
**Characters, Groups, and Locations (CGLs)** are another matter; they're unique entities that //exist in// the setting but don't //define// the setting. When filling out the "Availability" tag for a CGL that you have created, use one of the following categories:
~##**Open** - Free for any use##
~##**Public** - Ask permission for major changes## //(default)//
One note: **No matter which Availability category** a CGL is in, stories will not be added to canon if they create major conflicts with existing material. "Availability" is about how conflicts are resolved when multiple writers have different ideas about where to take the CGL.
You don't have any attachment to your CGL, and anything beyond [[WhatIsCanon existing canon]] can freely be altered (even in large ways!) to accommodate other writers' ideas. This is a perfect category for minor characters you have few plans for, or elements of a story that you intended to be a one-shot.
A CGL in this category can be modified at will //as long as the changes are consistent with [[WhatIsCanon existing canon]]//. New stories can be written without so much as consulting the creator. Backstory can be added and profound developments can be layered in. If there's a disagreement over the direction a CGL should take, whoever adds their idea to canon first gets dibs on developing the CGL.
If your CGL is Open, also add the link "CategoryOpen" to the bottom of its page to insert it into the [[CategoryOpen Open CGLs index]].
==Using an Open CGL==
**Groups:** Writers may take any liberties desired without contacting the creator. Groups can have new members/residents added or removed at will, even pivotal or highly placed ones. They can take sides in other authors' conflicts, change emphasis, become famous, scatter, or schism.
~- Note: using //members// of the group in stories is determined by the //individual characters'// Availability! This merely affects //the group as a whole//.
**Locations:** Writers may take any liberties desired without contacting the creator. Stories may be freely set there. Residents of the location may be added or removed at will, even pivotal or well-known ones. The location may be landscaped, bought or sold, destroyed, etc.
You have no problem with other authors' stories modifying your CGL -- sometimes even in dramatic ways -- but you'd like to keep some control over the broad arc of its development. You'll happily write the big plot twists that other authors throw at your CGL into your own stories, but when it simply doesn't work for your vision of the CGL you need to be able to say no.
If you choose this category, be willing to let your collaborators pitch in on the small stuff. Other authors are encouraged to take liberties with your CGL -- fleshing out parts of their personality or background (or architecture) that you have not addressed. What CharacterJEDyer generally does with her weekends, or what the inside of her home looks like, or what she studied in college, should all be fair game if they are things that neither [[WhatIsCanon canon]] nor the wiki have specified.
However, when an author's ideas would have large implications for the character, they must run their broad vision past the creator before starting work: "Hey, you haven't said anything about CharacterJEDyer's sexuality, and I was thinking of making her gay and writing a story where she hooks up with her friend Jennifer. What do you think?"
As the creator, accommodate other authors unless the request contradicts your existing plans. Even if so, do your best to reach a compromise that will give the other author something to work with: "Well, that would certainly be interesting. But JE and Jennifer live across the country from each other - plus JE's got some specifically hetero relationships in the works after moving to Las Vegas in 1997. If you did want to write JE with another woman, maybe she could go bisexual after Vegas falls apart for her in '98?" If discussions come to an impasse, you do have veto power over adding that story to canon, but the goal of the Public category is to encourage unexpected collaborations.
==Using a Public CGL==
**Characters:** Assume that you may use this character in your story. However, any story events that reveal significant backstory or elements of their personality must be cleared with the creator. Same with events that cause major character development or physical alteration. When in doubt, ask before writing.
**Groups:** Assume that you may include this group in your story. Regular members may be added or removed at will. However, any story events that significantly affect the group's visibility, ideology, membership numbers, or high-profile members must be cleared with the creator. When in doubt, ask before writing.
~- Note: using //members// of the group in stories is determined by the //individual characters'// Availability! This merely affects //the group as a whole//.
**Locations:** You may assume that stories can be set here at will, as long as the location emerges relatively unscathed. However, story events that leave lasting impressions on the landscape or population must be cleared with the creator. When in doubt, ask before writing.
You're willing to let other authors' stories expand on or modify your CGL -- but you have firm ideas about it and need to keep an active hand in its development. If other authors offer you a cool idea for the CGL, you'll gladly work it in, but it'll require some shuffling to displace the existing cool ideas that haven't yet been written.
You're willing to let other people use your CLG, but others should //tread with caution// -- perhaps there is hidden backstory that would affect how the character is written, or perhaps if other people use your CLG in certain ways it will disrupt your story arc. If you choose this option, explain your restrictions in the Notes field of your CGL page.
If it's only a simple restriction ("this character cannot be on the U.S. West Coast in 1998"), mention it on their wiki page, but the default "Public" category will give you enough control. Use this category for larger restrictions ("I need to be the only person to develop this character's backstory").
Other authors may take liberties that develop your CLG around the edges, but should run their broad vision past you before starting work. If CharacterJEDyer was Limited, such a request might run: "Hey, I'm writing a story and I want my main character to be CharacterJEDyer's martial arts student Leyla, a fifth-grader who JE also tutors in English every Saturday. The wiki says JE's got a college degree and mentions nothing about the kids she teaches, so that seemed like an interesting character twist for her. Would that create any problems for you?"
==Using a Limited CLG==
~- Note: using //members// of the group in stories is determined by the //individual characters'// Availability! This merely affects //the group as a whole//.
You're willing to let other authors use your CGL, but they should //tread with caution// -- the CGL must interact with others in a certain manner, or has immense influence/power that could throw history into a screaming left turn, or the CGL's backstory/personality is so intricate that someone else's poorly chosen dialogue could explode months worth of your plotting and writing.
This category is appropriate for characters that have complicated ongoing story arcs, and little-known groups with specific membership lists. This category also covers everything from TTU's most pivotal celebrities to the unearthly landscapes seen by failed teleporters. There's no easy way of summarizing the reasons this category might be chosen. So, if you pick this, **explain your restrictions** in the Notes field of your CGL's page.
Other authors should run their specific plans past you before starting work, and (ideally) collaborate with you during the writing and editing process as well: "Hey, I'd like to write a story in which CharacterKiasu challenges the main character and beats him in a duel to make him miss his bus to work. The fight's going to take about 30 seconds, which I know is a lot, but my character's a REALLY strong mage. Of course Kiasu won't say anything beyond the usual. You willing to work with me on that?"
Stories won't be added to canon unless the creator approves of the way their CGL was used. If a modification is proposed for a CGL in this category, the creator has veto power and is under no obligation to accommodate the other writer. Please note: Since it is more difficult to collaborate to keep Restricted CGLs in the TTU spirit, if your CGL has canon issues any admin may tell you to change it or risk removal.
In all cases, see the individual CGL's Notes field for further explanation.
==Using a Restricted CGL==
**Characters:** Assume nothing about the use of this character; read their canon and wiki page and work closely with the creator while writing your story. If also listed in CategoryFamousCharacters, may be //name-dropped// at will (actual //use// is what is restricted). If not famous, even name-dropping may require special approval.
**Groups:** Assume nothing about the use of this group. Restricted groups generally will only contain the characters the creator specifically names, and creator permission is required to have any effect on their membership, ideology, reputation, or fate.
~- Note: using //members// of the group in stories is determined by the //individual characters'// Availability! This merely affects //the group as a whole//.
**Locations:** Assume nothing about the use of this location. Your characters may not even be able to access it (or know about it). Read the location's canon and wiki page, and work closely with the creator while writing your story.
Your CGL is generally off-limits to other writers. This goes against the spirit of a shared setting and should not be chosen lightly, but it has a few acceptable uses -- perhaps there are copyright issues; perhaps you identify with a character sufficiently that sharing them with other authors would cause problems (though remember: [[WriterGuidelines No self-insertion]]); perhaps a domain in LocationTheShadowlands has enough significance for a write-up of its own but is simply inaccessible to everyone but its owner.
If you choose this option, your CGL //must not// have any significant fame or reputation; celebrities -- and even most ordinary people -- by their nature are talked to and talked about. (Imagine how hard it would be for TTU authors to write as if CharacterDennisRedwing didn't exist!) If you choose this option, it's polite to explain your reasoning in the Notes field of your CGL page (and any circumstances for which exceptions to your no-sharing policy may apply).
Other authors cannot add works that include your CGL to the wiki or to canon -- though you may make exceptions. Any wiki modifications that other people make to your CGL should be taken as gentle suggestions, and you have full authority to roll changes back. Please note: Since we can't collaborate to keep your CGL in the TTU spirit, if your private CGL has canon issues any admin may tell you to change it or risk removal.
==Using a Private CGL==
**Characters in this category:** Assume that the creator will NOT grant permission to write stories about them. Name-dropping or brief cameos MAY still be OK, but don't count on it -- you MUST contact the creator before ANY use.
**Groups in this category:** Assume that the creator will NOT grant permission to write stories about them. Other authors' stories may not impact group membership, ideology, status, etc. Name-dropping or brief cameos MAY still be OK, but don't count on it -- you MUST contact the creator before ANY use.
~- Note: using //members// of the group in stories is determined by the //individual characters'// Availability! This merely affects //the group as a whole//.
**Locations in this category:** Assume that the creator will NOT grant permission to write stories set there. Typically nobody but the creator's characters will even realize it exists. You MUST contact the creator before making ANY reference to this location.
===Trivia===
~- 'CGLs' is pronounced "seagulls."
If you have any questions about a particular CGL's availability, please contact the individual creator. If you have any questions about this as a whole, visit QuestionsPage or contact BaxilDragon.
Deletions:
Characters, Locations, and Groups (CLGs) are another matter; they're unique entities that exist //in// the setting but don't //define// the setting. When filling out the "Availability" tag for a CLG that you have created, use one of the following categories:
~##**Open** - Free for any use##
~##**Public** - Ask permission for major changes##
One note: **No matter which category** a CLG is in, stories will not be added to canon if they create significant conflicts with existing material. "Availability" is about how conflicts are resolved when multiple writers have different ideas about where to take the CLG.
You don't have any attachment to your CLG, and you're willing to see it altered (even in large ways!) to accommodate other writers' ideas. This is a perfect category for minor characters you have few plans for, or protagonists of a story you intended to be a one-shot.
A CLG in this category can be modified at will //as long as the changes are consistent with [[WhatIsCanon existing canon]]//. New stories can be written without so much as consulting the creator. Backstory can be added and profound alterations can be made. If there's a disagreement over the direction a CLG should take, whoever adds their idea to canon first gets dibs on developing the CLG.
If your CLG is Open, also add the link "CategoryOpen" to the bottom of its page to insert it into the [[CategoryOpen Open CLGs index]].
**Groups:** Writers may take any liberties desired without contacting the creator. Groups can have new members/residents added or removed at will, even pivotal or highly placed ones. They can take sides in other authors' conflicts, switch emphasis, become famous, scatter, or schism.
**Locations:** Writers may take any liberties desired without contacting the creator. Residents of the location may be added or removed at will, even pivotal or highly placed ones. The location may be landscaped, bought or sold, destroyed, etc.
You have no problem with other authors' stories featuring or modifying your CLG -- but you do have further plans for the CLG and need to keep some control over its development. Other authors may extend and adapt your CLG, but you do retain ultimate authority.
Other authors may take minor liberties with your CLG freely, but when it would have implications for character development, they should run their broad vision past you before starting work: "
Hey, I'm writing a story and I want my main character to be CharacterJEDyer's martial arts student Leyla, a fifth-grader who JE also tutors in English every Saturday. The wiki says JE's got a college degree and mentions nothing about the kids she teaches, so that seemed like an interesting character twist. Would that create any problems for you?"
If you choose this category, be willing to accommodate: "Well, in March 1997, JE will be moving across the country and can't tutor any more -- but before that it doesn't conflict with my plans. I had been writing my own stories under the unspoken assumption that JE's weekends were more fluid, but I can work that in. Care to give me more details about Leyla so I can write one of their tutoring sessions from JE's perspective?"
The creator has veto power over adding a story to canon in case of //serious// disagreement, so authors using your CLG should make an effort to collaborate with you. If a modification is proposed for a CLG in this category, seek consensus, but give the author's vision extra weight.
Groups and locations in this category can have new members/residents added at will, but any use that significantly affects the visibility or theme should be cleared with the author as above.
You're willing to let other people use your CLG, but others should //tread with caution// -- perhaps there is hidden backstory that would affect how the character is written, or perhaps if other people use your CLG in certain ways it will disrupt your story arc. If you choose this option, explain your restrictions in the Notes field of your CLG page. If it's only a simple restriction ("this character cannot be on the U.S. West Coast in 1998"), mention it, but the default "public - ask permission" category should give you enough control; use this category for larger restrictions ("I need to be the only person to develop this character's backstory").
Other authors may take liberties that develop your CLG around the edges, but should run their broad vision past you before starting work: "Hey, I'm writing a story and I want my main character to be CharacterJEDyer's martial arts student Leyla, a fifth-grader who JE also tutors in English every Saturday. The wiki says JE's got a college degree and mentions nothing about the kids she teaches, so that seemed like an interesting character twist for her. Would that create any problems for you?"
You're willing to let other people use your CLG, but others should //tread with caution// -- perhaps there is hidden backstory that would affect how the character is written, or perhaps if other people use your CLG in certain ways it will disrupt your story arc. If you choose this option, explain your restrictions in the Notes field of your CLG page. If it's only a simple restriction ("this character cannot be on the U.S. West Coast in 1998"), mention it, but the default "public - ask permission" category should give you enough control; use this category for larger restrictions ("I need to be the only person to develop this character's backstory").
Other authors should run their specific plans past you before starting work: "Hey, I'd like to write a story in which CharacterKiasu challenges the main character and beats him in a duel to make him miss his bus to work. Is that OK?" Stories won't be added to canon unless you approve of the way your CLG was used, so authors using your CLG must make a strong effort to collaborate with you. If a modification is proposed for a CLG in this category, the original author has veto power over any changes.
It might be appropriate for a character that has a very tightly plotted story arc that can't accommodate any additions, or a shadowy, little-known group that has a specific membership list (like GroupTheRedeemers).
In all cases, see the CLG's Notes field for further explanation.
**Groups in this category:** Will only contain the characters the creator specifically names. Without creator approval, other authors' additions to canon may not have any effect on their membership, ideology, reputation, or fate. (Note: using //members// of the group in stories is determined by the //individual characters'// Availability! This merely affects details of //the group as a whole//.)
Your CLG is off-limits to other writers. This goes against the spirit of a shared setting and should be chosen as a last resort, but it has a few acceptable uses -- perhaps there are copyright issues; perhaps you identify with a character sufficiently that sharing them with other authors would cause problems (though remember: [[WriterGuidelines No self-insertion]]); perhaps a domain in LocationTheShadowlands has enough significance for a write-up of its own but is simply inaccessible to everyone but its owner.
If you choose this option, your CLG //must// have negligible fame or reputation; celebrities by their nature are talked to and talked about. (Imagine, for example, how hard it would be for TTU authors to write as if CharacterDennisRedwing didn't exist!) If you choose this option, it's polite to explain your reasoning in the Notes field of your CLG page.
Other authors cannot add works that include your CLG to the wiki or to canon -- though you may make exceptions. Any wiki modifications that other people make to your CLG should be taken as gentle suggestions, and you have full authority to roll changes back. Please note: Since we can't collaborate to keep your CLG in the TTU spirit, if your private CLG has canon issues any admin may tell you to change it or risk removal.
**Characters in this category:** Assume that the creator will not grant permission to write stories about them. Cameos might still be OK, but don't make that assumption -- contact the creator before use.
**Groups in this category:** Assume that the creator will not grant permission to write stories about them. Other authors' stories may not impact group membership, ideology, status, etc. Name-dropping or brief cameos might still be OK, but don't make that assumption -- contact the creator before use.
**Locations in this category:** Assume that the creator will not grant permission to write stories set there. Nobody but the creator's characters will have access. Contact the creator before making any reference to this location.
If you have any questions about a particular item's availability, please contact the individual creator. If you have any questions about this as a whole, visit QuestionsPage.
Additions:
When creating //events or concepts// for TTU, any work you put into a story or here on the wiki is public and available for other authors' use -- the entire point of a shared setting is that all "[[WhatIsCanon canon]]" events and all world history are common to all of the stories. You can "call dibs" on events by requesting that you be the one to write about it, but you can't make restrictions on letting other people use the basic //idea// of the event itself. What would a TTU story be like if, for example, you couldn't mention TheChanges?
Characters, Locations, and Groups (CLGs) are another matter; they're unique entities that exist //in// the setting but don't //define// the setting. When filling out the "Availability" tag for a CLG that you have created, use one of the following categories:
~##**Open** - Free for any use##
~##**Public** - Ask permission for major changes##
~##**Limited** - Ask permission first##
~##**Restricted** - Use only in specific ways##
~##**Private** - For creator's use only##
One note: **No matter which category** a CLG is in, stories will not be added to canon if they create significant conflicts with existing material. "Availability" is about how conflicts are resolved when multiple writers have different ideas about where to take the CLG.
You don't have any attachment to your CLG, and you're willing to see it altered (even in large ways!) to accommodate other writers' ideas. This is a perfect category for minor characters you have few plans for, or protagonists of a story you intended to be a one-shot.
A CLG in this category can be modified at will //as long as the changes are consistent with [[WhatIsCanon existing canon]]//. New stories can be written without so much as consulting the creator. Backstory can be added and profound alterations can be made. If there's a disagreement over the direction a CLG should take, whoever adds their idea to canon first gets dibs on developing the CLG.
If your CLG is Open, also add the link "CategoryOpen" to the bottom of its page to insert it into the [[CategoryOpen Open CLGs index]].
**Characters:** Writers may take any liberties desired without contacting the creator. Characters can move or marry or learn magic or turn into [[TherianthropeWaves Second Wave]] theris -- or even die!
**Groups:** Writers may take any liberties desired without contacting the creator. Groups can have new members/residents added or removed at will, even pivotal or highly placed ones. They can take sides in other authors' conflicts, switch emphasis, become famous, scatter, or schism.
**Locations:** Writers may take any liberties desired without contacting the creator. Residents of the location may be added or removed at will, even pivotal or highly placed ones. The location may be landscaped, bought or sold, destroyed, etc.
===Public - Ask permission for major changes===
You have no problem with other authors' stories featuring or modifying your CLG -- but you do have further plans for the CLG and need to keep some control over its development. Other authors may extend and adapt your CLG, but you do retain ultimate authority.
Other authors may take minor liberties with your CLG freely, but when it would have implications for character development, they should run their broad vision past you before starting work: "
Hey, I'm writing a story and I want my main character to be CharacterJEDyer's martial arts student Leyla, a fifth-grader who JE also tutors in English every Saturday. The wiki says JE's got a college degree and mentions nothing about the kids she teaches, so that seemed like an interesting character twist. Would that create any problems for you?"
If you choose this category, be willing to accommodate: "Well, in March 1997, JE will be moving across the country and can't tutor any more -- but before that it doesn't conflict with my plans. I had been writing my own stories under the unspoken assumption that JE's weekends were more fluid, but I can work that in. Care to give me more details about Leyla so I can write one of their tutoring sessions from JE's perspective?"
The creator has veto power over adding a story to canon in case of //serious// disagreement, so authors using your CLG should make an effort to collaborate with you. If a modification is proposed for a CLG in this category, seek consensus, but give the author's vision extra weight.
**Characters:**
**Groups:**
**Locations:**
===Limited - Ask permission first===
Other authors may take liberties that develop your CLG around the edges, but should run their broad vision past you before starting work: "Hey, I'm writing a story and I want my main character to be CharacterJEDyer's martial arts student Leyla, a fifth-grader who JE also tutors in English every Saturday. The wiki says JE's got a college degree and mentions nothing about the kids she teaches, so that seemed like an interesting character twist for her. Would that create any problems for you?"
Be willing to accommodate or to explain why those don't fit with your own plans: "Well, in March 1997, JE will be moving across the country and can't tutor any more -- but before that it doesn't specifically conflict with anything. I had been writing my own stories under the unspoken assumption that JE's weekends were more fluid, but I can work that in. Care to give me more details about Leyla so I can write one of their tutoring sessions from JE's perspective?"
Stories won't be added to canon unless you approve of the way your CLG was used, so authors using your CLG must make a strong effort to collaborate with you. If a modification is proposed for a CLG in this category, the original author has veto power over any changes.
**Characters:**
**Groups:**
**Locations:**
===Restricted - Use only in specific ways===
It might be appropriate for a character that has a very tightly plotted story arc that can't accommodate any additions, or a shadowy, little-known group that has a specific membership list (like GroupTheRedeemers).
In all cases, see the CLG's Notes field for further explanation.
**Characters:**
**Groups in this category:** Will only contain the characters the creator specifically names. Without creator approval, other authors' additions to canon may not have any effect on their membership, ideology, reputation, or fate. (Note: using //members// of the group in stories is determined by the //individual characters'// Availability! This merely affects details of //the group as a whole//.)
**Locations:**
Your CLG is off-limits to other writers. This goes against the spirit of a shared setting and should be chosen as a last resort, but it has a few acceptable uses -- perhaps there are copyright issues; perhaps you identify with a character sufficiently that sharing them with other authors would cause problems (though remember: [[WriterGuidelines No self-insertion]]); perhaps a domain in LocationTheShadowlands has enough significance for a write-up of its own but is simply inaccessible to everyone but its owner.
If you choose this option, your CLG //must// have negligible fame or reputation; celebrities by their nature are talked to and talked about. (Imagine, for example, how hard it would be for TTU authors to write as if CharacterDennisRedwing didn't exist!) If you choose this option, it's polite to explain your reasoning in the Notes field of your CLG page.
Other authors cannot add works that include your CLG to the wiki or to canon -- though you may make exceptions. Any wiki modifications that other people make to your CLG should be taken as gentle suggestions, and you have full authority to roll changes back. Please note: Since we can't collaborate to keep your CLG in the TTU spirit, if your private CLG has canon issues any admin may tell you to change it or risk removal.
**Characters in this category:** Assume that the creator will not grant permission to write stories about them. Cameos might still be OK, but don't make that assumption -- contact the creator before use.
**Groups in this category:** Assume that the creator will not grant permission to write stories about them. Other authors' stories may not impact group membership, ideology, status, etc. Name-dropping or brief cameos might still be OK, but don't make that assumption -- contact the creator before use.
**Locations in this category:** Assume that the creator will not grant permission to write stories set there. Nobody but the creator's characters will have access. Contact the creator before making any reference to this location.
Characters, Locations, and Groups (CLGs) are another matter; they're unique entities that exist //in// the setting but don't //define// the setting. When filling out the "Availability" tag for a CLG that you have created, use one of the following categories:
~##**Open** - Free for any use##
~##**Public** - Ask permission for major changes##
~##**Limited** - Ask permission first##
~##**Restricted** - Use only in specific ways##
~##**Private** - For creator's use only##
One note: **No matter which category** a CLG is in, stories will not be added to canon if they create significant conflicts with existing material. "Availability" is about how conflicts are resolved when multiple writers have different ideas about where to take the CLG.
You don't have any attachment to your CLG, and you're willing to see it altered (even in large ways!) to accommodate other writers' ideas. This is a perfect category for minor characters you have few plans for, or protagonists of a story you intended to be a one-shot.
A CLG in this category can be modified at will //as long as the changes are consistent with [[WhatIsCanon existing canon]]//. New stories can be written without so much as consulting the creator. Backstory can be added and profound alterations can be made. If there's a disagreement over the direction a CLG should take, whoever adds their idea to canon first gets dibs on developing the CLG.
If your CLG is Open, also add the link "CategoryOpen" to the bottom of its page to insert it into the [[CategoryOpen Open CLGs index]].
**Characters:** Writers may take any liberties desired without contacting the creator. Characters can move or marry or learn magic or turn into [[TherianthropeWaves Second Wave]] theris -- or even die!
**Groups:** Writers may take any liberties desired without contacting the creator. Groups can have new members/residents added or removed at will, even pivotal or highly placed ones. They can take sides in other authors' conflicts, switch emphasis, become famous, scatter, or schism.
**Locations:** Writers may take any liberties desired without contacting the creator. Residents of the location may be added or removed at will, even pivotal or highly placed ones. The location may be landscaped, bought or sold, destroyed, etc.
===Public - Ask permission for major changes===
You have no problem with other authors' stories featuring or modifying your CLG -- but you do have further plans for the CLG and need to keep some control over its development. Other authors may extend and adapt your CLG, but you do retain ultimate authority.
Other authors may take minor liberties with your CLG freely, but when it would have implications for character development, they should run their broad vision past you before starting work: "
Hey, I'm writing a story and I want my main character to be CharacterJEDyer's martial arts student Leyla, a fifth-grader who JE also tutors in English every Saturday. The wiki says JE's got a college degree and mentions nothing about the kids she teaches, so that seemed like an interesting character twist. Would that create any problems for you?"
If you choose this category, be willing to accommodate: "Well, in March 1997, JE will be moving across the country and can't tutor any more -- but before that it doesn't conflict with my plans. I had been writing my own stories under the unspoken assumption that JE's weekends were more fluid, but I can work that in. Care to give me more details about Leyla so I can write one of their tutoring sessions from JE's perspective?"
The creator has veto power over adding a story to canon in case of //serious// disagreement, so authors using your CLG should make an effort to collaborate with you. If a modification is proposed for a CLG in this category, seek consensus, but give the author's vision extra weight.
**Characters:**
**Groups:**
**Locations:**
===Limited - Ask permission first===
Other authors may take liberties that develop your CLG around the edges, but should run their broad vision past you before starting work: "Hey, I'm writing a story and I want my main character to be CharacterJEDyer's martial arts student Leyla, a fifth-grader who JE also tutors in English every Saturday. The wiki says JE's got a college degree and mentions nothing about the kids she teaches, so that seemed like an interesting character twist for her. Would that create any problems for you?"
Be willing to accommodate or to explain why those don't fit with your own plans: "Well, in March 1997, JE will be moving across the country and can't tutor any more -- but before that it doesn't specifically conflict with anything. I had been writing my own stories under the unspoken assumption that JE's weekends were more fluid, but I can work that in. Care to give me more details about Leyla so I can write one of their tutoring sessions from JE's perspective?"
Stories won't be added to canon unless you approve of the way your CLG was used, so authors using your CLG must make a strong effort to collaborate with you. If a modification is proposed for a CLG in this category, the original author has veto power over any changes.
**Characters:**
**Groups:**
**Locations:**
===Restricted - Use only in specific ways===
It might be appropriate for a character that has a very tightly plotted story arc that can't accommodate any additions, or a shadowy, little-known group that has a specific membership list (like GroupTheRedeemers).
In all cases, see the CLG's Notes field for further explanation.
**Characters:**
**Groups in this category:** Will only contain the characters the creator specifically names. Without creator approval, other authors' additions to canon may not have any effect on their membership, ideology, reputation, or fate. (Note: using //members// of the group in stories is determined by the //individual characters'// Availability! This merely affects details of //the group as a whole//.)
**Locations:**
Your CLG is off-limits to other writers. This goes against the spirit of a shared setting and should be chosen as a last resort, but it has a few acceptable uses -- perhaps there are copyright issues; perhaps you identify with a character sufficiently that sharing them with other authors would cause problems (though remember: [[WriterGuidelines No self-insertion]]); perhaps a domain in LocationTheShadowlands has enough significance for a write-up of its own but is simply inaccessible to everyone but its owner.
If you choose this option, your CLG //must// have negligible fame or reputation; celebrities by their nature are talked to and talked about. (Imagine, for example, how hard it would be for TTU authors to write as if CharacterDennisRedwing didn't exist!) If you choose this option, it's polite to explain your reasoning in the Notes field of your CLG page.
Other authors cannot add works that include your CLG to the wiki or to canon -- though you may make exceptions. Any wiki modifications that other people make to your CLG should be taken as gentle suggestions, and you have full authority to roll changes back. Please note: Since we can't collaborate to keep your CLG in the TTU spirit, if your private CLG has canon issues any admin may tell you to change it or risk removal.
**Characters in this category:** Assume that the creator will not grant permission to write stories about them. Cameos might still be OK, but don't make that assumption -- contact the creator before use.
**Groups in this category:** Assume that the creator will not grant permission to write stories about them. Other authors' stories may not impact group membership, ideology, status, etc. Name-dropping or brief cameos might still be OK, but don't make that assumption -- contact the creator before use.
**Locations in this category:** Assume that the creator will not grant permission to write stories set there. Nobody but the creator's characters will have access. Contact the creator before making any reference to this location.
Deletions:
Characters, locations, and groups (CLGs) are another matter; they're unique concepts that exist //in// the setting but don't //guide// the setting. When filling out the "Availability" tag for a CLG that you have created, use one of the following categories:
~##Open - Free for any use##
~##Public - Ask permission first##
~##Limited - See page notes##
~##Private - For creator's use only##
You don't have any particular attachment to the CLG, and you're willing to change your CLG to accommodate other writers' ideas. This is a great category for minor characters you have few plans for, or protagonists of a story you intended to be a one-shot.
A CLG in this category can be modified at will **as long as the changes reflect existing canon**; new backstory can be added, new stories can be written featuring them, your group can take sides in other people's events, others can visit (and leave marks on!) your location, etc. If there's a disagreement over the direction a CLG should take, seek consensus, and defer to the original author's ideas only if a consensus can't be reached.
Groups and locations in this category can have new members/residents added at will, even pivotal or highly placed ones.
If your CLG is Open, add "CategoryOpen" to the bottom of its page. A list of Open CLGs can be found there.
===Public - Ask permission first===
You're willing to let other people use your CLG, but you'd prefer to retain some authority over it. You're open to other people using your CLG -- even writing a story starring that character or centering around the group/location -- but you'd like the ability to keep your vision for the CLG consistent.
Other authors should run their broad vision past you before starting work: "Hey, I'd like to write a story about a student of CharacterJEDyer's, is that OK?" Stories won't be added to canon unless the creator and the author both find the way the CLG was used acceptable, so authors using your CLG should make a strong effort to collaborate with you. If a modification is proposed for a CLG in this category, seek consensus, but give the author's vision extra weight.
===Limited - See page notes===
Your CLG is off-limits to other writers. This goes against the spirit of a shared setting and should be chosen as a last resort, but it has acceptable uses. It might be appropriate for a character that has a very specific story arc that can't accommodate any changes, or a character that you take //very// personally and you'd feel violated seeing xir in someone else's hands. It might be appropriate for a shadowy, little-known group that has a specific membership list and all of the characters have individual story arcs you have plans for, like GroupTheRedeemers.
If you choose this option, your CLG //must// have very little fame or reputation; for example, it would be very hard for other writers to pretend CharacterDennisRedwing didn't exist! If you choose this option, it's polite to explain your reasoning in the Notes field of your CLG page.
Groups and locations in this category have closed membership/fixed population, and will only contain the characters the creator specifically names.
Other authors cannot add works that include your CLG to the wiki or to canon -- unless you have specifically given permission. Any modifications that other people make to your CLG should be treated as suggestions and you have full control to roll changes back. Please note: Since we can't collaborate to keep your CLG in the TTU spirit, if your private CLG has canon issues any admin may tell you to change it or risk removal.
Additions:
~##Private - For creator's use only##
===Private - For creator's use only===
===Private - For creator's use only===
Deletions:
===Private - For author's use only===
Additions:
~##Limited - See page notes##
===Limited - See page notes===
===Limited - See page notes===
Deletions:
===Limited - See character notes===
Additions:
You don't have any particular attachment to the CLG, and you're willing to change your CLG to accommodate other writers' ideas. This is a great category for minor characters you have few plans for, or protagonists of a story you intended to be a one-shot.
A CLG in this category can be modified at will **as long as the changes reflect existing canon**; new backstory can be added, new stories can be written featuring them, your group can take sides in other people's events, others can visit (and leave marks on!) your location, etc. If there's a disagreement over the direction a CLG should take, seek consensus, and defer to the original author's ideas only if a consensus can't be reached.
Groups and locations in this category can have new members/residents added at will, even pivotal or highly placed ones.
If your CLG is Open, add "CategoryOpen" to the bottom of its page. A list of Open CLGs can be found there.
Other authors should run their broad vision past you before starting work: "Hey, I'd like to write a story about a student of CharacterJEDyer's, is that OK?" Stories won't be added to canon unless the creator and the author both find the way the CLG was used acceptable, so authors using your CLG should make a strong effort to collaborate with you. If a modification is proposed for a CLG in this category, seek consensus, but give the author's vision extra weight.
Groups and locations in this category can have new members/residents added at will, but any use that significantly affects the visibility or theme should be cleared with the author as above.
Groups and locations in this category can have new members/residents added only if the creator approves.
Your CLG is off-limits to other writers. This goes against the spirit of a shared setting and should be chosen as a last resort, but it has acceptable uses. It might be appropriate for a character that has a very specific story arc that can't accommodate any changes, or a character that you take //very// personally and you'd feel violated seeing xir in someone else's hands. It might be appropriate for a shadowy, little-known group that has a specific membership list and all of the characters have individual story arcs you have plans for, like GroupTheRedeemers.
Groups and locations in this category have closed membership/fixed population, and will only contain the characters the creator specifically names.
A CLG in this category can be modified at will **as long as the changes reflect existing canon**; new backstory can be added, new stories can be written featuring them, your group can take sides in other people's events, others can visit (and leave marks on!) your location, etc. If there's a disagreement over the direction a CLG should take, seek consensus, and defer to the original author's ideas only if a consensus can't be reached.
Groups and locations in this category can have new members/residents added at will, even pivotal or highly placed ones.
If your CLG is Open, add "CategoryOpen" to the bottom of its page. A list of Open CLGs can be found there.
Other authors should run their broad vision past you before starting work: "Hey, I'd like to write a story about a student of CharacterJEDyer's, is that OK?" Stories won't be added to canon unless the creator and the author both find the way the CLG was used acceptable, so authors using your CLG should make a strong effort to collaborate with you. If a modification is proposed for a CLG in this category, seek consensus, but give the author's vision extra weight.
Groups and locations in this category can have new members/residents added at will, but any use that significantly affects the visibility or theme should be cleared with the author as above.
Groups and locations in this category can have new members/residents added only if the creator approves.
Your CLG is off-limits to other writers. This goes against the spirit of a shared setting and should be chosen as a last resort, but it has acceptable uses. It might be appropriate for a character that has a very specific story arc that can't accommodate any changes, or a character that you take //very// personally and you'd feel violated seeing xir in someone else's hands. It might be appropriate for a shadowy, little-known group that has a specific membership list and all of the characters have individual story arcs you have plans for, like GroupTheRedeemers.
Groups and locations in this category have closed membership/fixed population, and will only contain the characters the creator specifically names.
Deletions:
A CLG in this category can be modified at will //(as long as the changes reflect already-existing canon)//; new backstory can be added, new stories can be written featuring them, other people's characters can be added to your group or live in your location, etc. If there's a disagreement over the direction a CLG should take, seek consensus, and defer to the original author's ideas only if a consensus can't be reached.
Other authors should run their broad vision past you before starting work: "Hey, I'd like to write a story and make my main character one of GroupTheDawnkickers, is that OK?" Stories also won't be added to canon unless you and the author both find the way your CLG was used acceptable, so authors using your CLG should make a strong effort to collaborate with you. If a modification is proposed for a CLG in this category, seek consensus, but give the author's vision lots of extra weight.
Your CLG is off-limits to other writers. This goes against the spirit of a shared setting and should be chosen as a last resort, but it has acceptable uses. It might be appropriate for a character that has a very specific story arc that can't accommodate any changes, or a character that you take //very// personally and you'd feel violated seeing xir in someone else's hands. It might be appropriate for a shadowy, little-known group that has a specific membership list and all of the characters have individual story arcs you have plans for.
Additions:
Other authors should run their broad vision past you before starting work: "Hey, I'd like to write a story and make my main character one of GroupTheDawnkickers, is that OK?" Stories also won't be added to canon unless you and the author both find the way your CLG was used acceptable, so authors using your CLG should make a strong effort to collaborate with you. If a modification is proposed for a CLG in this category, seek consensus, but give the author's vision lots of extra weight.
Deletions:
Additions:
~##Open - Free for any use##
===Open - Free for any use===
CategoryMeta
===Open - Free for any use===
CategoryMeta
Deletions:
===Open - For anyone's use===
Revision [196]
Edited on 2006-12-19 23:14:49 by BaxilDragon [Disambiguation of two "public" categories]Additions:
~##Open - For anyone's use##
===Open - For anyone's use===
===Open - For anyone's use===
Deletions:
===Public - For anyone's use===
