====== How to Create a Character ======
Creating a character in Volaire is the first step in bringing your story to life. Whether you're new to LARP or a veteran worldwalker, this guide will walk you through the process from idea to execution.

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===== 🧬 Step 1: Choose Your Race =====
Flip through the [[operations:public:interactive_rulebook:core:races|Races of Volaire]] to find one that suits your concept.

Some races are:

  * **Open** — Available to all players.
  * **Limited** — Restricted to a small number of active characters.
  * **Restricted** — Require approval by the Race Marshal and are not available to new players.

Each race includes its own:
  * Advantages and disadvantages
  * Costuming requirements
  * Roleplay expectations

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===== ⚔️ Step 2: Choose Your Class =====
Your class defines what your character does in the world of Volaire.

Options include:
  * Fighter
  * Rogue
  * BattleMage
  * Mage
  * //Restricted Classes:// Knight, Ranger

Classes determine:
  * Armor and weapon access
  * Available skills
  * XP costs for growth

See [[operations:public:interactive_rulebook:core:classes|Character Classes]] for full descriptions.

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===== 🎲 Step 3: Allocate Starting XP =====
All characters start at **Level 5**, which gives **500 XP** to spend on:

  * Skills
  * Spell slots
  * Class abilities
  * Proficiencies

You will build your character sheet at check-in with a staff member during your first event.

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===== 📖 Step 4: Write Your Backstory (Optional but Recommended) =====
We strongly encourage all players to submit a character history by their **third event**.

  * No strict format – but more detail = better plot integration.
  * Submit via a support ticket before your third game.
  * Outstanding backstories may receive small in-game rewards!

**Backstory Restrictions:**
  * ❌ No royalty, liches, vampires, or “all-powerful” anything
  * ✅ Creative origins are encouraged (e.g., “raised by a frog-obsessed necromancer”)

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===== 🧥 Step 5: Gather Your Gear =====
Bring everything you need to play:
  * Costuming that fits the medieval high-fantasy tone
  * Weapons (or borrow them at first)
  * Spell packets if you're a caster
  * Makeup if your race requires it
  * Both a **white** and **orange** headband

For more detail, see the [[operations:public:interactive_rulebook:core:getting_started|What to Bring]] page.

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===== 🛬 Step 6: Check In and Finalize Your Character =====
At your first event:
  * Check in with a Game Manager
  * Pay for the event and submit ID & waivers
  * Build your character sheet with staff
  * Attend Opening Ceremonies and New Player Orientation

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===== 🧡 Final Notes =====
  * You may adjust your character freely until the end of your first event.
  * After your **fourth event**, certain physreps become mandatory (armor, spellbook, lab, etc.)
  * Reach out via a support ticket if you need help at any time.

Welcome to Volaire — your legend begins here.