Reader’s Question:
What is a “kingdom AU” that I often see in dream fanfiction?
What’s the Deal with “Kingdom AU” in Dream Fanfiction?
You know, I’ve always found it fascinating how diverse fanfiction can be. Just the other day, I stumbled upon the term “kingdom AU” while perusing some dream fanfiction. Initially,
I was scratching my head, thinking it might be some royal fantasy or a medieval twist. But after diving a bit deeper, I learned it’s actually a modern parody! Imagine characters from historical or fantastical settings—like samurai warriors or ancient kings—dressed up in trendy modern outfits. It’s like seeing a feudal lord in a graphic tee and sneakers, which just cracks me up! The creativity people pour into these stories is astounding. I mean, who wouldn’t want to see a character like Nobunaga Oda trying to navigate a coffee shop drive-thru or attempting to figure out social media? I remember one instance where a fanfic depicted a hilarious scene of a historical character trying to order bubble tea. The poor guy was confused about all the flavors and toppings—talk about a culture shock! It really reminded me of the time I took my kid to a new café and we both ended up overwhelmed by the menu. We spent more time laughing at our indecision than actually ordering. But it’s not just about the laughs; there’s something heartwarming about these AUs too. They allow writers to explore different facets of a character’s personality in a contemporary setting. It’s like giving them a second chance at life, where they can make goofy mistakes, form new friendships, or even discover their hidden talents—like karaoke! What’s really cool is how these stories can bridge cultures, especially for someone like me, who grew up with a blend of Japanese and American influences. I often find myself chuckling at the cross-cultural misunderstandings that arise in these AUs, reminding me of my own experiences trying to explain the concept of “manzai” comedy to my friends back in California. If you’ve ever found yourself lost in the world of fanfiction, I’d love to hear about your experiences! Have you encountered any funny or surprising moments in your reading adventures? Or maybe you’ve tried your hand at writing an AU yourself? Share your stories or tips in the comments! Let’s keep the conversation going.