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