Attack on Titan: Creative Process

Part 3: Time to Get Started

Now that I have a rough idea of my character and how they fit into the world, I can start the process of actually writing my story. When I first get started, I create three documents: the manuscript, the draft, and the final. It is through a combination of these three documents that I am able to organize my story, keep my characters consistent, and remember important plot points or narrative devices to utilize later down the road.

The Manuscript

The manuscript is where I jot down all my thoughts and ideas. There's really not much organization or structure to this document, if I'm being completely honest. It's purpose is simply to act as a space where I can write notes that I can go back and review as I write the draft (see below). The manuscript is where I take note of my characters traits and characteristics, events that will occur in the future, and possible quotes or lines of dialogue that I want to use later.

Manuscripts are living documents. That is, they are constantly changing and updated in tandem with the writing of my story. I am constantly referring to my manuscript throughout the writing process, lest I forget some important detail that I needed to include in Chapter 1 that then pays off in Chapter 50. Because the manuscript grows and evolves as the story progresses, I felt it would be more advantageous for you all to see what a fuller manuscript looks like, as opposed to one for a story I am just beginning. For that reason, I've decided to include a glimpse of my manuscript from my MHA story, as opposed to the new Attack on Titan manuscript.

[Quirk: Photonic Manipulation

Allows control over photons on a subatomic level. Make sure all abilities granted by quirk are backed by scientific reason.

Energy blasts: photons are energy released by electrons changing orbital levels. Photons create heat and tangible energy as seen by incandescent lights. Large scale release of photonic energy would result in some form of heat blast.

Hard light: States of matter relate to atomic arrangement. Photons exhibit particle/wave duality, meaning they have some form of physical presence, theoretically meaning they have mass. Manipulation of photons could lead to hard light (liquid light? Gaseous light?)

Healing properties? Requires manipulation of more than just photons, probably don't include.

Time manipulation through time dilation theory? Time control would make character too overpowered. Do NOT allow.

Eyes emit powerful blasts of photonic energy that character cannot control. Causes massive damage both to surroundings and himself. Blindfold doesn't actually do much other than hide scars and act as a reminder to keep eyes closed.

Remember that character is not actually blind.

Open eyes in Season 3?

Yaoyorozu and Yotetsu running from Nomu in forest. Make Nomu more powerful, on par with Nomu that fought All Might. (L/N) fights Nomu. Regenerative properties means Nomu must be destroyed completely so that no part can regenerate. Opens eyes and vaporizes Nomu. Destroys mountain in background. How to ensure to casualties?

Opening eyes drains (L/N), falls into a coma for AFO events.

Aizawa to Yaoyorozu after Bakugou Rescue Operation

"And Yaoyorozu, (L/N)'s in a coma because of what he did to protect you. Risking your life seems a poor way to repay that sacrifice."

Forest Arc:

(L/N) finishes fighting through beast forest several hours before rest of Class 1A. Saves a plate of food for Yaoyorozu. Others are upset that he did not save food for them.

"I... uh... I thought you might be hungry."

"Uh, well... none of you have quirks that need you to eat, so..."