Sometimes I think RP would help me figure out my OCs' voices, but I'm leery of making them visible to the public before I've even finished the story

do you have madwomanwithabox on your plurk list? I think she's done this? (Correct if I'm wrong, Liz)

You are right! I've done it numerous times, and it DOES help with voices. Tommy Karras in is my protagonist in a novel I'm hoping to publish.

I also find that playing an OC can help with worldbuilding. Figuring out one character can help you figure out your universe.

That's what I keep thinking/hoping for, just.... I feel like a clingy parent, I'm nervous of actually doing it.

I used to hear all kinds of horror stories about people who would show off or talk about their characters online and then having ideas stolen and shit like that. Made me waaay paranoid. XD

I was gonna mention Tommy but then for some reason I second-guessed myself LOL

that's the thin that would make me wary, too, Tayber

It's why I've never done Original RP before even though I have countless characters that would be fun to play XD

if you're concerned? do a poor man's copywright: iff you have something you want to develop into a story, send yourself a certified letter detailing the character/world explicitly.

dont open it. then you have a case if someone tries to steal it.

that's a thing? I did not even know this thing

It is! I learned it when I was like, fifteen. If you have a manuscript or anything, too, that can also be sent certified. Just as long as it's CERTIFIED, unopened, and clearly details the concept.

It'll hold up in court.

huh. that's kind of awesome!

Well, RP aside, that is an excellent thing to know, so thank you! XD