A warning that sounds like praise
Write a welcome speech in which every compliment is also a warning. Your newcomer notices one sentence too late.
01
Start here
Begin with a sincere compliment about how well the newcomer fits in.
02
Try this constraint
Keep the speaker courteous. No threats, weapons or sudden violence.
03
Keep writing
Repeat one harmless phrase after the newcomer tries to leave.
Two ways to take it further
- Set the scene at a neighborhood dinner rather than a remote castle.
- Let the speaker be frightened too, but unable to break the ritual.
CueShelf original writing starter. Work examples are identified separately; this premise is not a plot summary.