Blurring the in-game/meta-game ethics line

[clawfoot]

So, in the wake of my last campaign (which was awesome), we've started a new one. D&D 4e again, same world -- the players can see the effects their PCs have had on the world, and some of their characters' children are still influential NPCs here and there. One is a new demigod (he was a paladin named Bruce -- I think I had them rolling on the

Comments

[clawfoot]

Oh, yes, that open style of play can be a lot of fun, and I've done it often. This particular instance, however, I think would have the greatest impact if it were an actual surprise.

I do have 15+ years experience with these particular players, and they do have slightly different styles. I know one of them is going to eat this up for breakfast and ask for more. She loves this kind of stuff. The other... the other is more of a "happily ever after" kind of player, who plays for pure escapism. This might actually upset her a bit, if the NPC sticks with the party for the majority of the campaign.

She is also very much into the concept of redemption for characters, however, so if I get the feeling she's actually upset by the betrayal, I can likely save the game through a redemption subplot and return the NPC to them.

Hmm. Player One I'm absolutely rock-solid sure will love this to bits. Maybe I'll keep her in the dark about it, but talk a bit about surprises and secrets with Player Two, just to make sure I won't be ruining the game for her.