Developing the idea
Use a recognizable place and a small problem: a delayed journey, an unfinished project or an unexpected conversation. Everyday detail works when it changes what the character can do next. A long biography is not required to make one immediate decision feel specific.
Write an opening that invites a reply
Separate the character's goal from the user's goal. The opening should invite a response rather than explain every relationship at once. Read the greeting aloud to check that the voice still sounds like a person with a purpose, not a list of traits.
Review the character as a whole
The portrait, background and greeting should support the same identity. Test whether a change of topic still produces a recognizable voice. Keep characters original, clearly adult and within the community rules.
This is a dated theme from the contest collection, not a notice that submissions are currently open. An event's entry conditions and deadline apply separately from using the theme as a writing exercise.