A relation links two works and labels the relationship. Picking the right label is what we care about — wrong labels are by far the most common reason these submissions get edited.
| Type | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Sequel | Continues the same story chronologically. |
| Prequel | Tells the story before the original chronologically. |
| Side Story | A story set in the same universe focused on different events or supporting characters, but not the main continuation. |
| Spin-off | A new series leveraging the universe / characters, often a different genre or tone. |
| Alternative (Version) | Same story, different medium or format (e.g. an alternate-route adaptation). |
| Alternative (Setting) | Same characters or concepts, transplanted into a different setting / universe. |
| Parent Story | The narrative this work is a Side Story / Spin-off of. |
| Adaptation | One medium adapted from another (anime adaptation of a manga). |
| Source | The original work this one is adapted from. |
| Summary | A condensed version (recap movie, summary special). |
| Compilation | A combined release containing multiple existing works. |
| Contains | Bundles or contains another smaller work. |
| Character | Shares characters but not plot continuity (cameo-tier link). |
| Other | Last resort when nothing else fits. Document the relationship in your submission. |