Blood on the boards

[Leanne]

It all began (as most things do)
across the froth of Billy's brew
last Sunday;
a harmless joke about a friend
would somehow see the friendship end
by Monday.

A newbie's innocent remark
was all it took to turn things dark
and painful;
'twas meant to most sincerely praise
and yet it earned a bitter gaze,
disdainful.

Dale tried hard to calm the air
while milo flexed upon his chair,
all tautness.
"Leanne, I only said that you
write just like Maya Angelou!"
cried Thoughtless.

Drinks were downed and pens were out --
such a blow can't pass without 
reaction.
Todd joined in -- he knew the score --
soon the bar was lost to war
(abstraction)

Tom and Ella took up guard,
on the floor, the noob lay charred,
and cried:
"I take it back, your vengeful wrath
is reminiscent more of Plath,"
and died.