User blog comment:EvilMegaCookie/Maya/@comment-28898344-20150310004056/@comment-5819717-20150323200702

I don't think conflict requires vulnerability. We have competitions that are relatively harmless, yet could still be said to be a form of conflict as it involves a show of strength, wits or flexibility. Whatever it is, the very nature of it spurs people to do better and to surpass themselves. Or it crushes them. It depends entirely on the person.

So.... no, conflict doesn't necessitate harm for it to be conflict. Really, you could simply call it an obstacle to their goal or destination. What fun would a story be if there weren't a few detours along the way? I am pretty sure it is hard to find stories that are like a straight arrow, never wavering in its direction. Honestly, I think a story without conflict isn't a story. As conflict is... well, it is basically a part of our reality and that is something that will never change unless we achieve unity or Nirvana.

>_<