Page 1102 — Half-Empty Threats
This has turned out to be another example of some really, really fascinating discussion in the comments. I just have one little tangent to add that's been stewing with me for a while:
It's amazing how much comedy writing is based on unhealthy situations and relationships, isn't it? About pointing out and laughing at the absurdity of, when you get right down to it, crappy (and potentially avoidable) circumstances. Comedy, parody, and satire based on people living their best lives in their best moments is hard to find by definition. Which may explain why it's so easy to succumb and hop on over the fence to drama — because the subject matter was always there; you just forgot to laugh at it, or couldn't muster the energy this time.
Not that I'm trying to pretend that Friendship is Dragons is some kind of high-brow comedy webcomic thing. Goodness no. I mean, look at where we are right now; this ain't funny. Geez.
Transcript:Discord GM: I must say, how unsportsmanlike of you.
Fluttershy: Wai–Wait, I'm sorry, I didn't mean it like– I-I was talking about Discord, not–
Discord GM: You were right about one thing, though! I don't need silly games to curse anyone. I worked so hard to keep it all engaging and tailor-made, but noooooo. So try this on for size:
Discord: From this moment forth, until the game is over… You are cursed to have no filter on your inner fire. Let's see how your friends like the REAL you without that cute façade to wash things over!
DM: Actually…
Discord GM: What??
DM: Because Fluttershy saw right through you, and because maybe Discord and his magic are a little off-balance as a result… Fluttershy has the ability to focus her will and resist. She can choose how much she wants to roleplay this.
Discord GM: Gaaah, fine. It's not like she's the linchpin anyway. You handle the "happy reunion." Time for the coup de grâce.
DM: <sigh>
Fluttershy: Sorry…
DM: No no, you're… Well, maybe it was a little much, but I get the feeling it wasn't really him you were trying to "beat" there.
Fluttershy: Yeah… Sorry…
DM: This is getting way more complicated than I ever expected…