How to Care for a Heart Attack after Revealing your True Class

If you believe someone is having a heart attack after you have revealed that your character is not a paladin, but actually a Hexblade warlock, take these steps to ensure that they will survive long enough for you to explain why you thought this was a good idea. Symptoms include cold sweat, nausea, numbness, and shortness of breath. These are common reactions to discovering that a friend has betrayed their trust, even if you had good intentions.

Have the person sit down, rest, and try to keep calm. Explain that you did not hide this information from them lightly, and you wanted a chance to surprise everyone. Loosen any tight clothing, to allow them to breathe properly. They’ll need time to regain their breath as they come to terms with the new world order that’s been sitting under their noses the entire time. If they are unconscious and unresponsive, call 911, and begin CPR. As you alternate between rescue breaths and chest compressions, take the time to explain how your deceit fits into your character’s backstory, and their own fear of telling the truth about their past.

Do not allow the person to deny that they are experiencing a heart attack. Some people may be too proud to admit that they have had their minds blown, and simply say they are annoyed. Assure them that there is no shame in not realizing that you were reflavoring abilities to pretend you were a paladin. They might try to convince you that they knew all along, that they know the difference between how smites and hexes work. They may also argue that classes are a gameplay conceit, and don’t have to always inform the fiction. If you believe it will calm them down, pretend to agree. Some people are too stubborn to allow themselves to show any sign of weakness.