Ask Questions, Build on the Answers

Always ask questions of the PCs. When you’re curious about something and one of them should know the answer, ask. Make the question pointed, provocative, and leading.

Not, “Is there anyone in your class you like?” But, “Someone here is your best friend. Who is it?” Not, “Have you ever been defeated by a villain?” But, “How did Vortex defeat you so badly last time you clashed?”

Only ask provocative questions that the PCs would know the answers to. You shouldn’t ask them, “What’s that villain’s dastardly plan?” unless it’s somehow believable that they would know.

Remember those answers, keep in mind they add to the fiction, and target them for further development. Those answers are now true, and what’s more, the PC who gave you that answer is inherently interested in it—it was their answer! Don’t let it lie. Build on it.