Sequels
An introductory phrase such as "following X [name of event]" or "after X [name of event]" may be used to add context regarding the time or location that the current synopsis takes place. Such sentences can also serve to describe a character's motivations at this time.
Examples
After a daring escape from the Memory Museum, Sayaka Miki returns to Mitakihara City with unsettling news. (Magia Record: Mahou Shoujo Madoka☆Magica Gaiden 2nd Season - Kakusei Zenya)
Following the conclusion of the National Middle School Tennis Tournament, 12-year-old tennis prodigy Ryouma Echizen sets out to the United States in order to further improve his tennis skills. (Ryouma! The Prince of Tennis Shinsei Movie: Tennis no Ouji-sama)
In the above examples, we have a specific connection between the previous and current series: "Following…" introduces the catalyst for Ryouma's ambition, and "After…" presents the reason for the Mitakihara girls going to Kamihama.
However, avoid generic phrases that add no value, such as "following the events of Y [name of previous iteration]."
(Fictional) Examples
After the disappearance of the Spearhead Squadron in 86, the intensity of the Republic of San Magnolia's endless propaganda can no longer be hidden.
Following the events of Haikyuu!! Karasuno Koukou vs. Shiratorizawa Gakuen Koukou, an intense battle rages on for the three remaining spots in the national volleyball competition.
In these two examples, we gain no specific knowledge about the connection between entries in the series except for the chronological order.
Be creative in coming up with different ways to start your sequel synopsis.
Examples
Having concluded their adventure inside the mystical book The Universe of the Four Gods, Miaka Yuuki and Yui Hongo resume their ordinary lives. (Fushigi Yuugi OVA)
Taichi Yagami and his friends have moved on to junior high, but by that time, they have lost contact with their Digimon partners. (Digimon Adventure 02)
A new school year has begun at Ayanagi Academy for Yuuta Hoshitani and the members of Team Ootori. (Starmyu 2nd Season)
Six months ago, Karukozaka High School had vanished into the Underworld. Upon its reemergence, all 560 students and 28 faculty members remained missing. (Shin Megami Tensei [Kahn])
You should remain brief and vague when writing about past events. Take special care not to spoil what happened during the climax of the previous iteration in the series. For example, if you refer to a sports tournament or talent contest that occurred in the previous iteration, do not mention who won or lost.
Examples
The conclusion of the Mino ware contest has spurred Himeno Toyokawa to create a piece even more remarkable than the last. (Yaku nara Mug Cup mo: Niban Gama)
It is left vague whether Himeno won the contest or even participated in it.
Following the Nationals, Seishun Academy receives an invitation to participate in a junior tennis tournament at Wimbledon. (Tennis no Ouji-sama Movie 2: Eikokushiki Teikyuu Shiro Kessen)
With the Interhigh Championship finally over, Seirin's basketball team refocuses their efforts, training harder than ever to get the chance to participate in the Winter Cup. (Kuroko no Basket 2nd Season)
We do not know who won or lost the Nationals and Championship.
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