Page 58 – Extend the Olive Branch

Usually, a DM will make it clear whether words and Diplomacy are an alternative to combat. It’s not often that players themselves will stop the battle halfway to find a diplomatic solution.

The reverse – players suddenly attacking NPCs they were negotiating with – is slightly more common.

DM: Animal Empathy? Alright… What exactly are you trying to discern?

Fluttershy: Oh. I have to be specific. Um… Before the fighting started, was it already hurt?

DM: You’ve noticed that the Manticore’s been hiding a wound since the battle began.

Fluttershy: Ooh! Can I somehow stop it from attacking? So that maybe we can help?

DM: That’s going to take a pretty difficult Diplomacy check.

Fluttershy: …Okay.

<roll><br/>
Rainbow Dash: Don’t do this to me… Don’t charm the freaking monster…<br/>
DM: The Manticore halts it attacks.<br/>
Rainbow Dash: RRRRRGH.