Why 'rotkap'?

Rotkäppchen. Rotkappe. Rotkapp. Rotkap.

I was looking for a domain for this website. Originally, I was using a shortening of my middle name with an obscure TLD attached. I never liked it. It seemed so formal and proper, the whole word looked unbalanced and ugly and I wanted to use this as a blog, too, anyway. For personal stuff, for LARP and crafting adventures.

I wanted something separate from an already existing internet presence that's known to my workplace.

I wanted something short, memorable, easy to mention in person and distinct enough to be searchable.

My first LARP character, Vik, is a scoundrel and simple thief. Or so the official story went. A recent LARP had a secret, invite-only fight club. The invites were scarce and in high-demand. Everyone was hunting for one and I wanted one, too. I got my hands on one of a fellow's invite and 'borrowed' it. I had an idea.

I forged an invite.

It was supposed to be mine but a different companion later called on me, saying he'd heard that I may be able to help him. I was hesitant, at first but I couldn't let this opportunity squeeze him for coin slip through my fingers, so I sold him the ticket. (Sixt and I later snuck around the forest to spectate from afar).

And so this character grew. He was never just a thief, actually, he knows how to read and was a forger. He just plays dumb so he'll be underestimated.

Part of Vik's outfit is a very distinct red hood. Rotkäppchen. (These are german LARPs.) An obvious moniker that started to circle. You need a forgery? Ask for 'Rotkäppchen' — can't just advertise your illegal business, can you? The idea came from a friend on the way back home.

So there's my blog where I want to write about LARP adventures (among other things), what better name than something that relates to my first LARP character?