: Re: Writing a very complex relationship I am writing a webcomic, and have come upon a snag, I need two characters to like each other very much, but one is the slave of the other. In the comic,

@Deb2945533

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I'd say you did hit a snag indeed. With the medium. I could nicely answer this for a novel, but webcomics are inherently restricting, with need to limit verbal communication, bite-sized "strips", and so on. Still, I'll try best to my ability.

First, to make things more spicy (otherwise the outcome would be mellow and boring), build a conflict between the two. They struggle for opposite goals, despite their feelings towards each other they may hate factions the other belongs to, or despise their methods etc. Generally, give a clear, strong reason why the two should hate each other, going beyond slavery.

Then give them their own individual conflicts, where the other is the a bargain card and obstacle. Make them face difficult - or seemingly not so difficult choices. Chance for freedom, requests to betray each other, generous or terrifying incentives. Then expose their internal struggle, regretting the decision whatever it is, struggling with its consequences. Let them perform random acts of kindness and generosity towards each other, that seemingly go against their nature. Build their internal conflicts, where the general goal struggles against personal feelings.

And in the end allow them admit their true feelings. Give them a crowning moment of awesome. Let them surprise all sides by cooperating tightly, overcoming all differences and generally kicking ass as a well-matched team whereas being in their "default relationship" would be extremely hindering.

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