What is Roleplay? Episode Two

Westfall. It needs no introduction if you’ve ever taken a stroll around its hills and plains at sunset. After a few hours being harassed by outlaws I stop in the tavern for a breather.

A muscled human Warrior is buying something from the tavern keeper. Being a polite sort of Elf I wish him a good evening… by name.

‘How do you know my name!!?’ He demands, his eyebrows meeting like two furry swords.

It’s a showstopper. Of course I read it above his head. My bad. But unless he has the improvisation skills to acknowledge that I might indeed know him by reputation or prior friendship this is going to turn nasty.

We are two actors on a stage, and I’ve fluffed my opening line. Some good nature is required on his part to keep the show rolling.

‘Why aren’t you role-playing?’ he presses the attack.

What he really wants me to do is to break down, acknowledge my mistake and plead for mercy. Say something like; ‘I cannot justify knowing your name. I read it above your head. Please forgive me for not role-playing.’

Luckily I have the wit to help him out and rescue the scene. Praise Elune.

‘Of course I know you,’ I assure him. ‘You’re the hero who slew VanCleef!’

He follows my lead with the reply; ‘This is a RP server!’

What’s really going on here? Is the Warrior a valiant guardian of the sanctity of role-play facing down an intruder or an unimaginative keyboard puncher trying to prove their superiority by using “RP” as a weapon?

I hacked his head off, put in it my backpack, and went home.

I landed in Ashenvale where a young rogue came dancing up to me.

‘Hey Fey!’

‘Hello,’ I replied, removing my weapons and settling down for a quick nap. I love it when people remember me.