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[jbear]

I had conflict with my players for the first time last session.

I had prepared 3 simultaneous skill challenges al typed up in beautiful font and with images of indiana Jones fleeing the giant ball of stone and Rocky Balboa at the top of the steps etc. I also gave them a page detailing the general survival rules/hazards of the temple where the skill challenges occured.

I was sure it was gong to be a very exciting, thrilling evening for everyone, and I had spent hours preparing ths special climatic treat for my players

It was tense from the beginning because everyone knew their PC's lives were on the line. It was the first time I had run a skill challenge so transparently. And as the infighting began and the tension increased creeping into the personal terrain, I realised I had screwed up.

Everyone went home grumbling, avoiding eye-contact. And all that despite the fact that they had been successful despite the odds stacked against them.

I felt horrible. Like a total failure.

The next day the sniping continued, and I heard that I was being accused of bias/favouritism by 3 of my players. That turned my crummy feeling into downright blazing fury.

I don't mind if my players let me know they thought something I did was crap or boring... but accusing me of FAVOURITISM!!!!!!! That is going too far!

I let them know I was very annoyed but wisely we didn't talk it out till tempers were cooled today.

I expressed my hurt at the accusation. I also shared my feelings of failure, because my main goal is to make everyone have a fantastic time (literally). I think it was very positive to express our feelings and now the negativity has been erased. I guess you need to know where they are coming from, and they need to take into account where you are coming from. Then you need to find a middle road where everyone is comfortable, including yourself.