Post by Shinigami Kyra on May 6, 2010 14:48:07 GMT -5
[Note: This thread will obviously hold some OOC (Out of Character) dialog. This thread is only in accordance to training in both Fighting and General Role Play. There will be OOC and IC parts contained within this thread]
[Second Note: After writing through some of this thread, I would like to Open this thread to any of those who feel the need to improve their writing and overall Role Playing experience. This will more likely than not be included in a New Guide section. As such, if you have any questions, then this is the place to post]
Opening Post: The opening post is normally the very first post, directed by the original poster. As such, the Original Poster (OP) normally has right over the thread, since it was his/her creation. Thus, those who enter the thread, even if it does state that it is Open, normally have right on how the flow of the thread shall go. If the thread seems to start stemming out of their control, then a staff member may be introduced in order to get things back on to topic, or to help create order out of chaos.
Elements of Opening Post: The opening post should include the following: the player's character(s) with a good description, a description of the environment, and reasons for the post. These will all be explained in more detail more below.
Creation of Entry Post: The opening post can be considered an 'Entry Post,' though is not limited to simply the Original Poster. Those who enter the thread, their initial post is considered an Entry Post, since they are 'entering' their character into the thread. There are certain things to remember when creating an entry post; not everyone within the thread may know who your character is, as such, it would be best to describe your character within every entry post. Detailing is good, though you don't always want to use the same 'entrance' post for every thread you introduce your character.
Sample Opening Posts
Within this opening post, I will describe some of the elements used.
Environment
The environment is Soul Society. While I did not specifically state that, it is quite obvious by the mentioning of the Captain's Quarters. I also used some very minor description of the weather; a cloudy day, and the time of day; right around sunset. While not freezing, there is a cold breeze, which may eventually turn into rain in combination with the clouds. Such elements should only be controlled by the Original Poster. Of course, having a ridiculously stormy atmosphere, then having a bolt of lightning suddenly hit your opponent in a fight would certainly be considered Godmodding.
Character Description
A brief description of my Original Character, Kyra Rounin. She was described has short, petite, and having long, crimson hair. A brief description of her attire was also mentioned; the modified Shinigami attire, and the Captain's haori. The reason I did not continue to describe her is to leave it open in my following posts. I can use the next post to describe her eye color, skin color, and so forth, as to not repeat the character's name. For example:
Now, normally, the name should be replaced with various pronouns to prevent the repetition of your character's name, as well as words in general. As such, it can appear like this instead.
The name of the character was only listed once, and the words 'She' and 'Woman' replaced the other use of her name.
Instead, while one can always use a good sentence or two to describe their character, they can also use description in replacement for pronouns.
This is essentially killing two birds with one stone; you're both creating action, as well as providing description of your character. Nevertheless, you can separate these elements if you so choose; this simply is a more advanced form of writing. You may describe your character, then use specific pronouns in order to conduct your character's actions.
Character Action(s)
Within the Sample Introduction Post, I had my character move from her office to the training grounds. In between those points, there are some minor actions that simply 'bring the character to life.' For example, the stretching of limbs, the movement of her hands as she took off her Captain's robe, and moving her hair out of her field of view. These minor actions help to really bring more life to the overall post itself. I also moved the character to the training grounds, which will be the main focal point of the thread itself.
Introduction of Thread (Reason for Thread)
Through though process, I was able to reveal the reason behind the thread; training new cadets, or various unseated Shinigami, and preparing them to fight against Hollows. I left it open, as well, for those in attendance to reply as they'd like. While not everyone may have a reason behind their initial post, aside from helping to introduce their character to the board, it is highly recommended to have some sort of goal that can be obtained through the thread. Otherwise, the thread can just continue to go on and on without any goal to be obtained, nor end to be reached.
Thought Process, and/or Dialog
As stated above, there were some additional minor thoughts; her want to sleep, which helps to describe her personality (laziness), and the minor comment about the paperwork. Her thought process was also used to help describe the reason behind the thread. Thought process can be used a variety of ways to help shape out your character's personality. However, for replying posts, it is imperative to remember that responding characters CANNOT read the minds of the other characters, and as such, should not react to thought process. Facial expressions, however, can help to mold out their personality, and sometimes, reveal some expression of thought, though like other elements brought up, this is another advanced technique of writing.
NPC Introduction
In this opening post, there aren't really any NPCs that can be introduced. However, in my following thread (as the creator of this thread), I can produce some minor NPCs that are lined up with those in attendance, should I choose. These NPCs, however, will have strict limitations on use. They should have fairly little dialog, and only be used to help keep the thread going. Creating characters to fight, or to force attention upon your character is highly frowned upon. NPCs really shouldn't be the spotlight at all; you're here to Role Play with other players, and as such, the Playable Characters should be in the spotlight. NPCs should only really be used by veteran players. Use of NPC characters should be monitored by staff in order to make certain that the use of such characters are properly limited.
Leaving an Opening (Response)
In my final paragraph, I allowed those who wanted to join a spot to interact. Also, the opening does allow some posting time before my character initially showed up, in order to introduce their own character. Their reply to my opening can be made at the end of their post, rather than at the beginning, which would allow their entry post a bit more lenience.
The chapter for this is complete, and we will now continue this thread In Character. I will be going In and Out of Character quite frequently with my replies to better suite those who would like to learn more.
[Second Note: After writing through some of this thread, I would like to Open this thread to any of those who feel the need to improve their writing and overall Role Playing experience. This will more likely than not be included in a New Guide section. As such, if you have any questions, then this is the place to post]
OOC
Opening Post: The opening post is normally the very first post, directed by the original poster. As such, the Original Poster (OP) normally has right over the thread, since it was his/her creation. Thus, those who enter the thread, even if it does state that it is Open, normally have right on how the flow of the thread shall go. If the thread seems to start stemming out of their control, then a staff member may be introduced in order to get things back on to topic, or to help create order out of chaos.
Elements of Opening Post: The opening post should include the following: the player's character(s) with a good description, a description of the environment, and reasons for the post. These will all be explained in more detail more below.
- Environment
- Character Description
- Character Action(s)
- Introduction of Thread (Reason for Thread)
- Thought Process, and/or Dialog
- NPC Introduction
- Leaving an Opening (Response)
Creation of Entry Post: The opening post can be considered an 'Entry Post,' though is not limited to simply the Original Poster. Those who enter the thread, their initial post is considered an Entry Post, since they are 'entering' their character into the thread. There are certain things to remember when creating an entry post; not everyone within the thread may know who your character is, as such, it would be best to describe your character within every entry post. Detailing is good, though you don't always want to use the same 'entrance' post for every thread you introduce your character.
Sample Opening Posts
The clouds were heavy that evening and prevented the rays of the setting sun from ever reaching the opened window of the Fifth Squad Captain's Quarters. The short, long crimson haired Captain allowed a single moment to pass before pressing her Captain's Seal to, what seemed like, the millionth report that required her signature. With the day's end came the end of her duties, in terms of paperwork, and with a push back from her desk, the petite woman allowed her limbs to stretch, attempting to reach the ceiling, or rather, a portion of the way, while letting out a groan. Her limbs cried out to her, aches and pains from having remained seated for half the day. Despite the urge to take a nap, she had one more thing to accomplish for the day; a task that was long overdue, and no matter how much she complained or whined to her Lieutenant, she knew she would eventually have to get it done, or face the wrath of the Captain Commander.
And thus, her journey started to the training barracks of her Squad. While not all the members of the attended party were in her Squad, it was still her duty to make certain that these younglings were prepared to face the inevitable opponent of Hollows in battle. Understanding various situations, knowing specific strategies and when to pull back, that would be the lesson for today's guests.
With a slide of the door, Kyra Rounin walked out into the cloudy atmosphere. Torches were lit all around, despite sunset still not having been completed. A cool breeze greeted her skin as she slid the Captain's haori from her shoulders, attired in a similar modified robe as the Second Division Captain. That trademark scarlet colored scarf remained loosely wrapped around her neck, her lips just barely visible over the fabric. With a single hand upon her hip, the other hanging by her side, she used that free hand to brush a few strands of hair from her field of view and brought attention to those in attendance.
"Alright, line up!" Kyra shouted to the company, and awaited for those currently conversing to hastily prepare themselves for the workout ahead.
Within this opening post, I will describe some of the elements used.
Environment
The environment is Soul Society. While I did not specifically state that, it is quite obvious by the mentioning of the Captain's Quarters. I also used some very minor description of the weather; a cloudy day, and the time of day; right around sunset. While not freezing, there is a cold breeze, which may eventually turn into rain in combination with the clouds. Such elements should only be controlled by the Original Poster. Of course, having a ridiculously stormy atmosphere, then having a bolt of lightning suddenly hit your opponent in a fight would certainly be considered Godmodding.
Character Description
A brief description of my Original Character, Kyra Rounin. She was described has short, petite, and having long, crimson hair. A brief description of her attire was also mentioned; the modified Shinigami attire, and the Captain's haori. The reason I did not continue to describe her is to leave it open in my following posts. I can use the next post to describe her eye color, skin color, and so forth, as to not repeat the character's name. For example:
Kyra walked up to the Captain Commander's office. Kyra knocked lightly on the door. Kyra then proceeded to head inside after a reply was heard through the wood. Kyra placed her hands behind her back as she approached the Captain Commander.
Now, normally, the name should be replaced with various pronouns to prevent the repetition of your character's name, as well as words in general. As such, it can appear like this instead.
Kyra walked up tot he Captain Commander's office. She knocked lightly on the door. The woman then proceeded to head inside after a reply was heard through the wood. She placed her hands behind her back as she approached the Captain Commander.
The name of the character was only listed once, and the words 'She' and 'Woman' replaced the other use of her name.
Instead, while one can always use a good sentence or two to describe their character, they can also use description in replacement for pronouns.
The Captain of the Fifth Division walked up to the Captain Commander's office. A soft, peach-cream colored fist knocked lightly on the door. The petite woman then proceeded to head inside after a reply was heard through the wood. Those crimson hues blinked twice as she placed her hands behind her back and approached the Captain Commander.
This is essentially killing two birds with one stone; you're both creating action, as well as providing description of your character. Nevertheless, you can separate these elements if you so choose; this simply is a more advanced form of writing. You may describe your character, then use specific pronouns in order to conduct your character's actions.
Character Action(s)
Within the Sample Introduction Post, I had my character move from her office to the training grounds. In between those points, there are some minor actions that simply 'bring the character to life.' For example, the stretching of limbs, the movement of her hands as she took off her Captain's robe, and moving her hair out of her field of view. These minor actions help to really bring more life to the overall post itself. I also moved the character to the training grounds, which will be the main focal point of the thread itself.
Introduction of Thread (Reason for Thread)
Through though process, I was able to reveal the reason behind the thread; training new cadets, or various unseated Shinigami, and preparing them to fight against Hollows. I left it open, as well, for those in attendance to reply as they'd like. While not everyone may have a reason behind their initial post, aside from helping to introduce their character to the board, it is highly recommended to have some sort of goal that can be obtained through the thread. Otherwise, the thread can just continue to go on and on without any goal to be obtained, nor end to be reached.
Thought Process, and/or Dialog
As stated above, there were some additional minor thoughts; her want to sleep, which helps to describe her personality (laziness), and the minor comment about the paperwork. Her thought process was also used to help describe the reason behind the thread. Thought process can be used a variety of ways to help shape out your character's personality. However, for replying posts, it is imperative to remember that responding characters CANNOT read the minds of the other characters, and as such, should not react to thought process. Facial expressions, however, can help to mold out their personality, and sometimes, reveal some expression of thought, though like other elements brought up, this is another advanced technique of writing.
NPC Introduction
In this opening post, there aren't really any NPCs that can be introduced. However, in my following thread (as the creator of this thread), I can produce some minor NPCs that are lined up with those in attendance, should I choose. These NPCs, however, will have strict limitations on use. They should have fairly little dialog, and only be used to help keep the thread going. Creating characters to fight, or to force attention upon your character is highly frowned upon. NPCs really shouldn't be the spotlight at all; you're here to Role Play with other players, and as such, the Playable Characters should be in the spotlight. NPCs should only really be used by veteran players. Use of NPC characters should be monitored by staff in order to make certain that the use of such characters are properly limited.
Leaving an Opening (Response)
In my final paragraph, I allowed those who wanted to join a spot to interact. Also, the opening does allow some posting time before my character initially showed up, in order to introduce their own character. Their reply to my opening can be made at the end of their post, rather than at the beginning, which would allow their entry post a bit more lenience.
The chapter for this is complete, and we will now continue this thread In Character. I will be going In and Out of Character quite frequently with my replies to better suite those who would like to learn more.
IC Post
The clouds were heavy that evening and prevented the rays of the setting sun from ever reaching the opened window of the Fifth Squad Captain's Quarters. The short, long crimson haired Captain allowed a single moment to pass before pressing her Captain's Seal to, what seemed like, the millionth report that required her signature. With the day's end came the end of her duties, in terms of paperwork, and with a push back from her desk, the petite woman allowed her limbs to stretch, attempting to reach the ceiling, or rather, a portion of the way, while letting out a groan. Her limbs cried out to her, aches and pains from having remained seated for half the day. Despite the urge to take a nap, she had one more thing to accomplish for the day; a task that was long overdue, and no matter how much she complained or whined to her Lieutenant, she knew she would eventually have to get it done, or face the wrath of the Captain Commander.
And thus, her journey started to the training barracks of her Squad. While not all the members of the attended party were in her Squad, it was still her duty to make certain that these younglings were prepared to face the inevitable opponent of Hollows in battle. Understanding various situations, knowing specific strategies and when to pull back, that would be the lesson for today's guests.
With a slide of the door, Kyra Rounin walked out into the cloudy atmosphere. Torches were lit all around, despite sunset still not having been completed. A cool breeze greeted her skin as she slid the Captain's haori from her shoulders, attired in a similar modified robe as the Second Division Captain. That trademark scarlet colored scarf remained loosely wrapped around her neck, her lips just barely visible over the fabric. With a single hand upon her hip, the other hanging by her side, she used that free hand to brush a few strands of hair from her field of view and brought attention to those in attendance.
"Alright, line up!" Kyra shouted to the company, and awaited for those currently conversing to hastily prepare themselves for the workout ahead.