Post by Lyndon. on Jan 13, 2013 23:48:50 GMT
This is a comprehensive guide to creating your application/profile to meet the requirements set, allowing you to start role-playing and developing your character using the wonders of your imagination. Everything you find below will help you form the foundation of your alter-ego and make them as realistic as possible within the world of The Vampire Diaries, most specifically - the story of The Petrova Chronicles. Before we begin there are a few things you may wish to know, originally the application was a predefined template that was a requirement to use when creating a new post - however this idea felt somewhat restrictive, since you cannot edit the layout to suit yourself, so this has been dropped, if you need to find the template that you should use then follow this link and it will provide the BB Code required to cover all the sections you need to include in what would be classed as a worthy application. If you are in anyway confused about how your application is then graded and accepted then follow this link here and you'll be redirected to some information that will clear up any concerns that you may have. Now – we're ready, so let's begin.
The following chapters will give you an in-depth look at each segment of the application form and guide you through the best way to fill it in, follow these steps and you'll be role-playing in no time at all! The chapters you will cover are your name, your age, your gender, height, ethnicity, species, appearance, your inventory, character history, the point they turned and role-play experience. Each section will be marked with a unique code for quick searching – following this format [G0X] – with the X being the number in which the section comes in order of first to last.
Chapter One: Your Name [G01]
All right so the first crucial step to becoming a part of the role-play world is creating a unique name for your character that will identify you when joining the other members in the boards. Typically your display name will be changed to match this name chosen. Names are important as they are the focal point of your character – since we have no faces (unless you provide a picture), you will be recognized by your name. This cannot change, once applied, it'll stick so choose carefully. A little warning, offensive or stupid names will be removed and punishment will be put in place to repeat offenders – but of course, you're above such things so there's no need to worry, right?
How do I pick a good name? Well that's a good question, you'll have to look at a few different resources to determine the best name for your character, there is no right answer – only what seems right to you, after all it's your name, you have to 'live' with it. There are a number of factors that may influence your name picking process, so keep these in mind when choosing (remember all names must be sensible, have a first and last name and fit well within the role-play).
Chapter Two: Age [G02]
Ok, so now you have your name. Next is your age, not much to say here other than this will obviously determine the age of your character. This has to be realistic and fit in with the story of TPC. Remember as a Vampire or Werewolf you have only just turned, everyone on this role-play forum is a fresh turned supernatural, therefore your age is that of when you died. For example, if you were turned at the age of 17, that is your age now – there will soon be a system implemented for ageing and your character will become older, more powerful the more you role-play (As of 13/01/13 this system is not implemented). The average age for any character, regardless of species is 17-30.
Chapter Three: Gender [G03]
Another easy chapter, what is the gender of your character? Although you are not required to role-play at the gender you were born as in real-life, it may be easier to do so, simply because males and females are very different in natures and it may be easier to convey your emotions in the role-play knowing these emotions first hand, it is a lot harder than it first seems to understand how someone else, especially a different gender would react to a situation they find themselves in – for example females are usually more sensitive and sympathetic to those they feel close to than a male counterpart, men are typically more dominant and in some situations make decisions easier, but can also be more reckless. That being said, it is more than to role-play as the opposite gender if you feel you have the ability, just make sure it's believable.
Chapter Four: Height [G04]
Probably the shortest of all chapters, this gives an overall idea of how tall your character is, a simple figure will suffice – it doesn't have to be exact but enough to give a rough idea of whether your character towers above all others, or simply falls short (pun intended). Make it realistic, no people the size of buildings, or too small to see. Any other features can be discussed in the appearance section.
Chapter Five: Ethnicity [G05]
Where does your character come from, what is their ethnicity? This is pretty simple, it gives an idea of your character's background just from knowing their origins. Religious beliefs are not required and do not play a part of the role-play so therefore limit this to simply the location of your characters' birthplace.
Chapter Six: Species [G06]
What are you? Are you human? Maybe, maybe not. Perhaps once you were? Of course, this is probably the most defining part of the application – although it only requires a few simple clicks, it requires the most thought. As a Vampire you'll have to find a way to feed, look after yourself, deal with the sunlight and hunters chasing you down. As a Werewolf you're tied to the moon, you cannot compete with Vampires unless it's the night of the full moon and even then, learning to control your transformation may take a long time – turning at will cannot be done, unless you find a way and apply for it in the events/items sections. As a human you don't have to worry about the problems the other two suffer, but you'll have a whole host of issues to contend with, for starters both other species could rip you apart quite easily in a one on one fight, you'll need to rely on training, cunning and intelligence to outsmart them, or if you're graced with the ability to use powers of the spirits, you can level the playing field with deadly spells that can cripple all matter of supernatural, though be careful or you may end up as dinner, for either species.
Chapter Seven: Appearance [G07]
This section needs some strong description. Here you outline how your character looks, this includes clothes (but not jewellery and accessories). Unable to think where to start? Work from head down, its always good to have a clear image of what you're describing first, before starting – winging it can result in conflicts later on, so it's best to do some research first if you're unsure. Of course the location of your character could impact their style of clothing and perhaps even their appearance, for example someone in colder parts of Russia may find themselves dressed in thick attire as opposed to those used to sunny New York. This section requires a fairly long description and can be accompanied by a picture, but credit the source and the image is not required, nor will marks be awarded for providing a picture, this is a role-play forum, not tumblr.
Chapter Eight: Inventory [G08]
A list and description of items your character keeps on their person, including clothing accessories and jewellery. These items can be family heirlooms, treasured items, useful tools, or simply entertainment. Any items with particularly special traits will have to be applied for, for example a ring that allows the wearer to appear more attractive to the other gender would be something originally created by a witch and therefore would need its own application form and cannot be included until it has been accepted.
Chapter Nine: History [G09]
A description of your character's history, from their humble beginnings to the point they're at now – right before they turned or became aware of the supernatural world if you're a human. Anything interested that happened in the past, put it here. Let us of your character's hobbies from when they were younger, their current interests, abilities, skills, knowledge and socialisation. How have they grown up? What has made them become the person they are today? Do they have relatives? Did something happen to them? Has the supernatural world ever crossed your path before? All these ideas could formulate a large, detailed, interesting history that builds a strong mental image of your character and will gain you a lot of points if executed carefully and correctly.
Chapter Ten: Turning Point [G10]
Describe in detail the event that changed your character's life forever. What happened? How did they turn, what or who caused it? Was it of their choosing, or was that decision thrust away from them? Did they know they'd turned? How did they react? If you're human, describe an event that caused your character to take the role they have, be it a hunter who had an experience with the supernatural, describe the event that caused his/her hatred, should your character be a witch/warlock – tell us how you have awakened your powers. Make sure this section is in first person and past tense. A minimum 300 words required.
Chapter Eleven: Role-play Experience [G11]
Simply describe any experience you have with role-playing, be it on forums or another medium. If you've participated in other forums in the past, explain which ones and how. This doesn't necessarily have an impact on your overall score, but will give us an idea of what to expect when it comes to your character entering the world of The Petrova Chronicles.
So there you have it, the guide is complete. If you require any more assistance then please PM a member of staff and the issue can be resolved quickly. Otherwise, enjoy the application process – we'll see you on the inside.
The following chapters will give you an in-depth look at each segment of the application form and guide you through the best way to fill it in, follow these steps and you'll be role-playing in no time at all! The chapters you will cover are your name, your age, your gender, height, ethnicity, species, appearance, your inventory, character history, the point they turned and role-play experience. Each section will be marked with a unique code for quick searching – following this format [G0X] – with the X being the number in which the section comes in order of first to last.
Chapter One: Your Name [G01]
All right so the first crucial step to becoming a part of the role-play world is creating a unique name for your character that will identify you when joining the other members in the boards. Typically your display name will be changed to match this name chosen. Names are important as they are the focal point of your character – since we have no faces (unless you provide a picture), you will be recognized by your name. This cannot change, once applied, it'll stick so choose carefully. A little warning, offensive or stupid names will be removed and punishment will be put in place to repeat offenders – but of course, you're above such things so there's no need to worry, right?
How do I pick a good name? Well that's a good question, you'll have to look at a few different resources to determine the best name for your character, there is no right answer – only what seems right to you, after all it's your name, you have to 'live' with it. There are a number of factors that may influence your name picking process, so keep these in mind when choosing (remember all names must be sensible, have a first and last name and fit well within the role-play).
- Birthplace – Where your character is born will influence what kind of name to choose. For example if your character originates from Russia, they will most likely have a Russian name such as Nikolai or Yulia. Having a name based upon your characters' origins will be useless in creating a realistic application.
- Gender – Self explanatory, if you're a male you choose a suitable name, same goes for females. No guys called Rebecca, no girls called David.
- Environment – Where did your character grow up? After all your surroundings influence your entire life, this will play a key role. If you are from a wealthy family in the heart of New York City your character will most likely have a very modern name like Jaden or Ash, if you live in the countryside then perhaps your characters' name will be slightly older in origin, for example David or Stefan.
- Meaning – Does your name have a meaning? Your character's parent(s) may have chosen a name with a particular meaning, hoping the values of the name will become part of your character, never underestimate the power of someone's name – Just the very mention of the name 'Klaus' was enough to scare most vampires. Names speak a thousand words – with the right meaning.
Chapter Two: Age [G02]
Ok, so now you have your name. Next is your age, not much to say here other than this will obviously determine the age of your character. This has to be realistic and fit in with the story of TPC. Remember as a Vampire or Werewolf you have only just turned, everyone on this role-play forum is a fresh turned supernatural, therefore your age is that of when you died. For example, if you were turned at the age of 17, that is your age now – there will soon be a system implemented for ageing and your character will become older, more powerful the more you role-play (As of 13/01/13 this system is not implemented). The average age for any character, regardless of species is 17-30.
Chapter Three: Gender [G03]
Another easy chapter, what is the gender of your character? Although you are not required to role-play at the gender you were born as in real-life, it may be easier to do so, simply because males and females are very different in natures and it may be easier to convey your emotions in the role-play knowing these emotions first hand, it is a lot harder than it first seems to understand how someone else, especially a different gender would react to a situation they find themselves in – for example females are usually more sensitive and sympathetic to those they feel close to than a male counterpart, men are typically more dominant and in some situations make decisions easier, but can also be more reckless. That being said, it is more than to role-play as the opposite gender if you feel you have the ability, just make sure it's believable.
Chapter Four: Height [G04]
Probably the shortest of all chapters, this gives an overall idea of how tall your character is, a simple figure will suffice – it doesn't have to be exact but enough to give a rough idea of whether your character towers above all others, or simply falls short (pun intended). Make it realistic, no people the size of buildings, or too small to see. Any other features can be discussed in the appearance section.
Chapter Five: Ethnicity [G05]
Where does your character come from, what is their ethnicity? This is pretty simple, it gives an idea of your character's background just from knowing their origins. Religious beliefs are not required and do not play a part of the role-play so therefore limit this to simply the location of your characters' birthplace.
Chapter Six: Species [G06]
What are you? Are you human? Maybe, maybe not. Perhaps once you were? Of course, this is probably the most defining part of the application – although it only requires a few simple clicks, it requires the most thought. As a Vampire you'll have to find a way to feed, look after yourself, deal with the sunlight and hunters chasing you down. As a Werewolf you're tied to the moon, you cannot compete with Vampires unless it's the night of the full moon and even then, learning to control your transformation may take a long time – turning at will cannot be done, unless you find a way and apply for it in the events/items sections. As a human you don't have to worry about the problems the other two suffer, but you'll have a whole host of issues to contend with, for starters both other species could rip you apart quite easily in a one on one fight, you'll need to rely on training, cunning and intelligence to outsmart them, or if you're graced with the ability to use powers of the spirits, you can level the playing field with deadly spells that can cripple all matter of supernatural, though be careful or you may end up as dinner, for either species.
Chapter Seven: Appearance [G07]
This section needs some strong description. Here you outline how your character looks, this includes clothes (but not jewellery and accessories). Unable to think where to start? Work from head down, its always good to have a clear image of what you're describing first, before starting – winging it can result in conflicts later on, so it's best to do some research first if you're unsure. Of course the location of your character could impact their style of clothing and perhaps even their appearance, for example someone in colder parts of Russia may find themselves dressed in thick attire as opposed to those used to sunny New York. This section requires a fairly long description and can be accompanied by a picture, but credit the source and the image is not required, nor will marks be awarded for providing a picture, this is a role-play forum, not tumblr.
Chapter Eight: Inventory [G08]
A list and description of items your character keeps on their person, including clothing accessories and jewellery. These items can be family heirlooms, treasured items, useful tools, or simply entertainment. Any items with particularly special traits will have to be applied for, for example a ring that allows the wearer to appear more attractive to the other gender would be something originally created by a witch and therefore would need its own application form and cannot be included until it has been accepted.
Chapter Nine: History [G09]
A description of your character's history, from their humble beginnings to the point they're at now – right before they turned or became aware of the supernatural world if you're a human. Anything interested that happened in the past, put it here. Let us of your character's hobbies from when they were younger, their current interests, abilities, skills, knowledge and socialisation. How have they grown up? What has made them become the person they are today? Do they have relatives? Did something happen to them? Has the supernatural world ever crossed your path before? All these ideas could formulate a large, detailed, interesting history that builds a strong mental image of your character and will gain you a lot of points if executed carefully and correctly.
Chapter Ten: Turning Point [G10]
Describe in detail the event that changed your character's life forever. What happened? How did they turn, what or who caused it? Was it of their choosing, or was that decision thrust away from them? Did they know they'd turned? How did they react? If you're human, describe an event that caused your character to take the role they have, be it a hunter who had an experience with the supernatural, describe the event that caused his/her hatred, should your character be a witch/warlock – tell us how you have awakened your powers. Make sure this section is in first person and past tense. A minimum 300 words required.
Chapter Eleven: Role-play Experience [G11]
Simply describe any experience you have with role-playing, be it on forums or another medium. If you've participated in other forums in the past, explain which ones and how. This doesn't necessarily have an impact on your overall score, but will give us an idea of what to expect when it comes to your character entering the world of The Petrova Chronicles.
So there you have it, the guide is complete. If you require any more assistance then please PM a member of staff and the issue can be resolved quickly. Otherwise, enjoy the application process – we'll see you on the inside.