One popular theme is the corruption of the normally bright and harmonious Equestria. For example, ponies might be forced to face extreme moral dilemmas that shatter their innocent worldviews. Another theme could be the rise of dark powers, like an evil force taking over Canterlot and spreading chaos. And there's also the theme of characters turning against each other due to dark influences, which creates a lot of conflict and drama in the fanfiction.
In mlp grimdark fanfiction, a common theme is the breakdown of friendships. Since friendship is such a central aspect of the My Little Pony world, seeing it fall apart can be very impactful. Also, themes related to the loss of magic's positive nature often occur. Magic, which is usually a force for good, can be twisted into something malevolent. This can lead to things like ponies being mutated or the land itself becoming a desolate and dangerous place.
One popular MLP Grimdark fanfic is 'Cupcakes'. It takes the cute and colorful world of My Little Pony and twists it into a much darker and disturbing story. However, it's not for the faint - hearted.
Twilight Sparkle can be really interesting in grimdark fanfiction. Her normally studious and rational nature can be warped into a more obsessive and power - hungry form. Pinkie Pie also stands out. Instead of being the fun - loving party pony, she could be a deranged figure, her laughter taking on a more menacing tone. And then there's Discord, who is already a chaotic character, but in grimdark versions, he can be even more malevolent and manipulative.
One popular grimdark novel is 'A Song of Ice and Fire' by George R. R. Martin. It's full of complex characters, political intrigue, and a gritty, often cruel world. Another is 'The First Law' trilogy by Joe Abercrombie. His works are known for their morally grey characters and dark humor. Also, 'Prince of Thorns' by Mark Lawrence is a great example. It follows a very unlikable but fascinating anti - hero in a brutal world.
Some of the popular ones include 'Gardens of the Moon' which is part of the 'Malazan Book of the Fallen' series. It's filled with complex political plots and dark magic. 'Best Served Cold' by Joe Abercrombie is also a great example. It has a revenge - driven plot in a world where no one is truly good or innocent. 'The Painted Man' by Peter V. Brett is set in a world overrun by demons at night, and the characters have to fight for survival in a very dark and unforgiving environment.
One popular theme is mentorship. Since Celestia was Twilight's teacher, many fanfictions explore their relationship in more depth, like how Twilight continues to learn from Celestia in different ways.
Transformation can also be a theme. Maybe a Thomas character gets transformed into a pony - like form in the MLP world or vice versa. This can lead to humorous situations as they try to adapt to their new forms and the rules of the new world. It also allows for exploring how their identities change and how they are perceived by others in this new state.
Another example is 'Goblin Slayer'. This light novel delves into a rather grimdark setting where goblins are not just simple foes but are depicted as truly menacing and the world is filled with danger and despair. The story follows the Goblin Slayer, a character on a mission to eradicate goblins.
One popular one is 'The House in Fata Morgana'. It has a complex and often tragic narrative that's characteristic of the grimdark genre. The art style and the way it unfolds the story through different timelines is really engaging.
One popular theme is adventure. Ponies going on quests, exploring new lands in Equestria, like in 'The Great Equestrian Expedition' where they face all kinds of obstacles and discover new magical places.
One popular theme is Spike's loyalty. He is often depicted as a very loyal friend in fanfiction. For example, in stories where Twilight Sparkle is in danger, Spike will do whatever it takes to save her. Another theme is his growth as a character. As he gets older in the fanfiction world, he might learn new skills or gain more confidence.