Everyone has their pre-game ritual. Something that gets them in the right mindset. Something that amps them up for the struggle to come. For some people it's as easy as listening to heavy music or a specific tune. For others, the ritual is more involved and takes focus, introspection, and even hours of mental preparation. But what about your character?
Have you given it any thought?
I saw this question on a message board and it took me by surprise. For all the details I know about my characters, I don't know how they get ready for a battle they know is coming. I have an idea for some. I can picture them checking their gear, tightening straps, and trying to clear their mind, but I don't have all the details.
The more I think about it though, the more I want to know. Combat is a constant in most RPG characters lives, and their "pre-game ritual" is a big part of how they get through it because it is how they get ready.
So how does your character get ready? Have you even given it any thought?
I have two that are the most visceral in my mind.
ReplyDeleteOne, from L5R, Yoritomo Akitachi is visceral because of how little it takes for him to get ready for combat. All it takes is to pull his hand axes from his obi, and tap the hammer side of them together twice, roll his shoulders, and it's off to the races.
The other is very opposite. Ardana Talik from Star Wars before any known upcoming fight would take time to reaffirm social bonds, send letters, queue up goodbye letters to auto send if she doesn't tell them not to after x time. Then meticulously clean each piece of gear to a loving shine and perfect condition. Find a place she can't be seen, and won't be found, dance until she's sweating, shower, let her thoughts and sweat run down the drain, and get armored up to go, for the last time.
Every time.