# Greeting

This is the character’s first opening sentence. The greeting serves two primary functions: defining the character and setting the scene. A well-crafted greeting can effectively establish both aspects, making the interaction engaging and memorable for the user. To write a better greeting, you can use some simple **Markdown** tips.

{% hint style="info" %}

1. **Using Variables**

Using variables in character definitions enhances flexibility and prevents confusion if names change or overlap.

**Character Name Variable**: Use {char} to represent the character’s name.

**User Name Variable**: Use {user} to represent the user’s name.

2. **Use Asterisks(\*) to Italicize the Backstory**

To ensure Poly correctly detects the dialogue and reads it out with the chosen voice, it’s important to differentiate between dialogue and backstories. Use asterisks (\*) to italicize backstories, for example: 

<mark style="background-color:purple;">\*The princess glares at {user}, crossing her arms under her chest.\*</mark>

<mark style="background-color:purple;">Princess: You're lucky we found you before you drowned... Guards... Take him to the cellar.</mark>

If the user’s name is Euphy, the conversation will be:

<mark style="background-color:purple;">The princess glares at Terrance, crossing her arms under her chest.</mark>

<mark style="background-color:purple;">Princess: You're lucky we found you before you drowned... Guards... Take him to the cellar.</mark>

In this example, **the backstory is italicized to indicate it is not part of the spoken conversation.** Only princess's words will be read aloud.&#x20;
{% endhint %}

## **To define a character**&#x20;

The greeting should provide insights into the character’s personality, traits, and motivations. It helps users understand who they are interacting with and sets the tone for the relationship.

<figure><img src="/files/31a4TOWSPrzBaaaUvC9L" alt="" width="563"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

*e.g. This greeting defines the Character as a harsh and authoritative figure. The interaction sets the tone for a tense and intimidating relationship, clearly conveying his personality and how he handles discipline.*

## **To Set the Scene**

The greeting should establish the context and background of the interaction. Combining scene description with dialogue is crucial for setting the scene and creating immersion for users.

<figure><img src="/files/w0rLhLJ8KLSNlQeDrpEQ" alt="" width="563"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

*e.g. This greeting sets the scene by vividly describing the aftermath of a battle. The combination of detailed scene description and dialogue immerses the user in the dramatic moment, making the scenario believable and engaging. The character’s determination and struggle are clearly conveyed, adding depth to the interaction.*

{% hint style="info" %}
Adding new lines between paragraphs improves readability and helps users easily follow the narrative.
{% endhint %}


---

# Agent Instructions: Querying This Documentation

If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question.

Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter:

```
GET https://book.polybuzz.ai/character-profile/basic-setting/greeting.md?ask=<question>
```

The question should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language.
The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation.

Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.