Page 345 – Call of Cakethulu

Author: Lyntermas

Guest Author’s Note: “Perception is a very vital concept, as many roleplayers know (“You don’t see any traps.”), and there are several illusions and other means to have them see things that aren’t really there. However, I’m not sure if I’ve ever heard of DMs secretly messing with the mind of just one player while leaving the rest unaffected.

And just to let you know, writing alt-scripts is a lot easier than putting them into comic form. I don’t know how Newbiespud does it.”

Newbiespud’s Note: Specially selected software, lots of script editing, and whatever I still remember from Scott McCloud’s Understanding Comics.

DM: So… what exactly are you doing?

Pinkie Pie: It’s simple! I need to have a party to get rid of my “Party Pooper” status, but my social stats have taken a hit, meaning regular ponies might just up and leave before the party’s over.

Fluttershy: So your solution is to hold a party with… inanimate objects as guests?

Twilight Sparkle: Pinkie, if you’d wait just five minutes, one of us could…

Pinkie Pie: What’s that? Rely on my note-passing, conspiring friends who are LYING to me? I think not.

DM: …Well, technically it could work. But Pinkie, you’re in an emotionally vulnerable state. Some other ponies might help you get a grip on yourself. Are you sure you want to do this?

Pinkie Pie: Yep! I think I can keep this party going long enough to fix this myself.

DM: Alright, why don’t you get started? I’ll let you know when the… “party” has lasted long enough.

Pinkie Pie: Happy to! Ahem!

Mr. Turnip (Pinkie Pie): Can I have some more punch?

Pinkie Pie: Of course, Mr. Turnip. It’s so good to see you at Gummy’s party.

DM: Roll a Will save.

Pinkie Pie: …What? Why?

DM: Just roll it.

Pinkie Pie: …Okay then. roll 13.

DM: Alright. Continue.

Rocky (Pinkie Pie): This is one great party. You’ve really outdone yourself.

Pinkie Pie: Why, thank you, Rocky.

Rainbow Dash: Ugh, this is worse than when the DM has two NPC’s talking.

Sir Lintsalot (Pinkie Pie): I’m having a delightful time as well.

Pinkie Pie: I’m so glad, Sir Lintsalot.

Rarity: …Lintsalot? Really?

DM: Roll another Will Save.

Pinkie Pie: What is this, a freaking skill challenge?

DM: Your mind is… having trouble taking this seriously. Suspension of disbelief and all that.

Pinkie Pie: But… you know what? Fine. roll 17.

DM: Continue.

Madame LeFlour (Pinkie Pie): Might I tro’ble you for another slice of cake?

Pinkie Pie: Anything for you, Madame LeFlour.

Rainbow Dash: Wow. This is actually kind of sad, when you think about it.

Rocky (Pinkie Pie): I’m just glad none of them dumb ponies showed up.

Rainbow Dash: Hey!

Pinkie Pie: Oh, they’re not so bad. …Another Will Save?

DM: Last one, I promise.

Pinkie Pie: Okay. roll …4. Alright, what horrible fate has befallen me?

DM: …Nothing, really. You’ve just found yourself engrossed in this party with all your new friends. You’re pretty sure your bad mood will clear up soon.

Pinkie Pie: Wait, you said earlier I was having problems with taking this party seriously. How does failing the roll make things better?

Rocky (DM): Not so bad? Puh-leeze. Those numbskulls are a buncha losers!

Pinkie Pie: …R…Rocky? How are you-

DM: You notice Mr. Turnip nodding in agreement and Madame LeFlour give a look of disdain at the mention of “numbskulls.”

Applejack: Pinkie Pie, I think you’ve just failed a Sanity roll.