This concerns all forced movement, but is especially relevant for spells like Dissonant Whispers, that caveat how the creature moves. The relevant text for this sort of spell is quoted below:
The target must make a Wisdom saving throw. On a failed save, it takes 3d6 psychic damage and must immediately use its reaction, if available, to move as far as its speed allows away from you. The creature doesn’t move into obviously dangerous ground, such as a fire or a pit.
If I could move further away from the source of the spell, by using part of my movement to move towards it, rather than move up against the obstacle, is that allowed? Instance where that would happen include the 'dangerous ground' clause in the above spell quote, or walls or other direct impediments to movement.
For example, in this diagram, Red casts Dissonant Whispers on Blue. Can Blue choose between the green and purple paths, or is Blue compelled to take one, and if so, which?
Best Answer
Yes, probably.
The spell says:
There will be a place(s) that is “as far as its speed allows” that involve approaching the caster to get there - that place(s) would be legitimate aiming points if “away” only applies at the end of the move. Which supports your interpretation.
But is also ambiguous. Because “away” could also be interpreted as being applicable throughout the movement.
If it has said:
Then that isn’t ambiguous and doesn’t support your interpretation. But it doesn’t.
However, we have other things to go on.
The Frightened condition is explicit that you cannot approach the source of your fear. Because that is explicit and this isn’t we come back to the Princess Bride solution- if it doesn’t say it, it doesn’t do it.