Arcs and Chapters
Writing in the DWRPG is often referred to as a 'post'. Each post is part of a chapter, which is part of an arc, which is part of The Dark World. Think of the main The Dark World discussion tag as the title of a book series. The series' books each have individual arcs that drive the story. Discussion topics are like a chapter and each arc will have multiple chapters with characters carrying out their stories. Chapters will eventually end when a new event occurs, characters move to a different place or time, or merge with other character groups. Players create a new chapter by moving their story discussions there, and the old chapter is locked for archiving. An arc ends when all events combine to trigger an ending event led by the GMs. When an arc ends a new one will begin, and the story continues.
To create a new discussion in the main storyline, you will select the The Dark World tag, and then select the title of the current arc, which is Shadows of the Kingdom. You can then Start a Discussion or join a discussion by using Reply within a chapter.
Players can join any chapter they feel their character would fit best unless it is marked with a Solo or a Private tag (more on this later). If you are unsure how to transition your character into a chapter please ask in Out of Character discussions and your fellow players will be happy to help you.
Players can also create new chapters within the arc. However, we do caution players to not begin new chapters frivolously. Creating a chapter will put you and your character in a sort of ‘leader’ position for this chapter. Mind, it’s not a definitive role, but a sort of expectation for guidance since you started the chapter. Players may look to you for leadership, major decision-making, advice, and driving the story along. Clarify to players in OOC your expectations, but remember that chapters are not just about your character unless you intend to solo play. Even in a sort of leadership role, this is a cooperative game. Leave room for players to explore, interact, and create their own tales along with you. A piece of advice –don’t be rigid in your expectations.
Also, if you create a chapter, you may find yourself waiting around for other characters to join you. Solo play is perfectly okay if you are waiting for players to join you. Feel free to utilize NPCs in the meantime. We will discuss official Solo-tagged chapters in another section.
