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Murphy CMD 21 AC 19 HP 43/43 - (Kim). What happened? 
Thursday January 21st, 2016 4:00:21 PM

Murphy considers the puzzlement that is inevitable under these unusual circumstances.

He climbs up on a wagon, and holds out his hands for silence.

Then he begins. "This is a sad day. A tragic day. I cannot explain everything, but will try to tell you what I can." He looks about at the faces of the crowd, waiting for complete silence.

"What happened is rather odd. We do not understand all of the magic of the giant towers, or how it all works. We need to consult with the local authorities. We do not yet know exactly what has become of the Second Dinner Club. They were trying to stop this, but were injured in the initial explosion, which started the purple haze."

His eyes tear up as he continues. "I - I was able to look through the upper window just before the tower died. I saw no one in the room. I trust, I pray, that our greatest wizards were able somehow to escape the..." and here, Murphy chokes up.

He asks for a drink of water. He composes himself, then struggles to continue. "Look, friends, neighbors. It's hard for us to understand just how all this happened, too. Yes, we thank Alemi, and the others above who watch over us.

"I will say this: The Second Dinner Club has helped to keep the power of the Giant Tower strong for years, working with others from Crescent Valley who oversee the other towers in this magical fence. There are many mysteries to this largely invisible wall. I wish I could understand and explain what happened fully.

"Suffice it to say, we will seek to learn what we can. We seem to have been teleported away from here, and we raced to return, as you have seen. These people," and he indicates Trillium, Pressi, Kezzem, and Cameron, "agreed to come and help us - to help you."

"For the rest of your questions, if you will show patience, your officials will give a fuller report later. We will all need to make preparations to deal with the loss of the tower."

He looks about. "Can we have a few clerics offer up prayers for the souls whom we lost here, and for the welfare of the Second Dinner Club, and, finally, for wisdom for our leaders and for each of us as we deal with the tragedy we all face this day?"

Bliss (AC20, HP43) & Mookie (AC19, HP21) (Cayzle) 
Thursday January 21st, 2016 6:11:25 PM

Bliss casts his Reduce spell as usual, glad that it works. Once people are healed up, he offers to say Gargul's prayers for the dead.

Of course, with zero ranks in Know Religion, he just makes his prayers up as usual, cobbled together out of fragments he may have heard here or there. Like, "Bless them oh Gargul, with all your gifts, to these you're about to receive, with your bounty, and may the perpetual light shine on them, amen."

Later, he is happy to breathe and talk to people. "We were in the tower, and then we had a nightmare, and then we woke up three weeks ago far away, and then we raced back, and got here just when you saw us. It's really not complicated. We didn't know what would happen when we went in the tower, but on the way back, of course we did, because we had been there. Of course we wanted to help. We were hoping to arrive before we left, but maybe that's not possible."

"Dunno what happened to the Second Dinner Club. Who were they, again? Some of them were hurt, maybe dead, but it is hard to say. I was dead once, but it did me no lasting harm. Praise Gargul."

"As for the towers, we have no clue, but Miss Shel there is a mage, and Miss Alleah has some really powerful magic, and Mister Murphy knows everything, so maybe we can fix it? Maybe?"

Bliss enjoys visiting the pubs (both, please) but does not indulge. He did that once, and his head really hurt the next day.

Alleah -- RobC -- AC 14/13/12 -- CMD 12 -- HP 39/39 
Thursday January 21st, 2016 8:35:13 PM
Despite the tragedy, Alleah can't help but smile proudly as Bliss says some prayers for the departed. He really is growing into a hero. She stands next to him and bows her head as he prays. She goes to retrieve some cloth from her kits to lay over the victims, but is very surprised to discover her haversack no longer functioning. "I hope this is only temporary"

Once Bliss has said a prayer, Alleah will cast Gentle Repose followed by Prestidigitation/Clean Blood on each the corpses. She wants them to look decent for any family or friends who wish to see them.

Alleah stands tall with her hands clasped before her as Murphy addresses the crowd. When he is finished she adds "This area may still not be safe. Let us all head back to the town now. Any who are still injured should head to the Temple of Ffloy. We can setup a triage and have clerics and healers tend to wounded in comfort there"

For the most part, the party have traditionally been "Pits" (ie: Dancing Pig regulars). Alleah does not want to cause any fuss however.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 19, HP 43/43, CMD 22  d20+5=11 ;
Thursday January 21st, 2016 8:59:45 PM
Pressi takes advantage of one of the barrels as temporary storage for things that no longer fit in her no longer bag of holding, like that giant obsidian axe. Feeling self conscious about the male attention, she places her robe of not blending on.

Gone was the Cthonia tobacco, one of her methods of moving people away from the tower. A while back, she had promised Murphy as a sign that she believed in this quest that she would make cigars of it once the tower was saved. She watched as many a survivor lit the tobacco, the smoky air filling with the smell of truffle oil.

Pressi for the most part ignores the questions, though a few citizens do recognize her from Angel Springs. A couple that once visited the Emerald City even remember the name "Diamond Dust." She had been around for a bit.

She puts a hand on Murphy's shoulder. "For what it's worth, I really thought we might pull it off."

-------------------

Pressi gathers everyone around. "Ok, I'm not going to sugercoat it. Today was tough. Even if you believed that you can't change the past or that Waard isn't even lucky, today was tough.

"To me, Waard was never the God of luck. Every chapter in his life is yet another thing happening to him, or another day he has to leave or lose everything. We think of him as the God of Luck (knowledge check 11) because he kept going, kept surviving. And now, we need to find it in ourselves to move forward in time. And it starts by focusing on the part of the past that did change. We have changed. We have risen to challenges that far outstrip the powers of any mere giants. We could not have saved these lives if the past had not changed.

"For every person we could not save, it is a tragedy to be mourned. But do not mourn for the tower. That tower had been lost to another time. This, now, is our time. Let our pride be in the things we did save. Let us be easy going when the going is hard. Let us be optimistic not that we can change the past but that we can still change the future. Let us show any giants that invade that they were better off against the tower.

"But first, let us get some drinks, because it's been a looong several seconds."

Trill (AC: 22/17/22, HP: 53/54, CMD: 20, hasted, bull's strength) (Kent) 
Thursday January 21st, 2016 9:44:47 PM
Trill helps out where needed and frets a bit over the loss of her things, but then they were just things. As questions are asked about what happens she lets those who know more about what was going on answer and when asked about who she is she responds simply and honestly.

My Name is Trillium Lightfingers, I joined this group along the road deep in the Culverwood. I am from outside of plateau city in the wine growing region.

She too will make an appearance at each of the taverns as she knows nothing about either of them nor the politics and while she will have a bite to eat she will only have one glass of wine at each establishment.

Shel Gerald--AC 15/14/12--CMD 14--HP 39/39 
Thursday January 21st, 2016 9:46:09 PM
Shel smiles and nods as the others speak. She slinks away from the group, missing her friend Alouryn. She wanted to find out what had happened with her and if Hazel had made it back safely. Other than Murphy, those two were her closest friends, and she needed to see if those two were okay and they were still married.

Only after checking would Shel be interested in rejoining the others, and having some of her namesake dish.

I think that was at the Dancing Pig, but honestly I can't remember, lol.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 22, HP 48/48, CMD 19 
Thursday January 21st, 2016 11:32:30 PM
As the party tries to explain things involving magical time travel, Kezzem just shakes his head.

"If you're head is hurting, that's Cornwall. Best not think about it too much and have a drink. The important thing is nobody got hurt. Well, almost nobody."

Murphy CMD 21 AC 19 HP 43/43 - (Kim). Meeting with a few leaders 
Friday January 22nd, 2016 2:31:26 AM

Murphy jots down a few notes as he works with others. He invites whoever in the party wishes to join him to meet with the officials. Having at least one of the people who was in the tower and got pulled into Koshe Marr would be good. If everyone wants to come, that would be terrific. He takes moments here and there to let each one know about the upcoming meeting. He invites Hazel and Alouryn to come, too. He says he wants to keep it short, but to give a brief, clear rundown on what happened, with a focus on the tower events, the portal to Koshe Marr, and the exit therefrom - and the separation of the Second Breakfast Club from them as they teleported to Izen. He thinks the first place he would like to look for them is the Wizards' Tower in town. He does not want to get bogged down at this meeting with details of the journey back, other than to mention the journey was long and strewn with numerous obstacles along the way, as well as the meeting of new companions along the way. He tells them they thought, it appeared, there still remained an additional day or two to return in time to prevent the whole tower incident. He also mentions attempts to reach key people in town through magical means, but these were thwarted.

During the meeting, he relates the above. The druid then adds, "When flying, trying to enter the tower, and seeing the doors slam shut almost in my face, and noting the increasing pulsations emanating from the tower, I knew the time was almost up. I looked through the window, where we and the three wizards had been. The portal was still visible through the purple mist, but no one could be seen within. No one at all. Now, from our past experience, before we returned here - we all were there just as the explosion began, and were sucked into the portal. This time, there were still a few minutes before the explosion when I looked within. There may have been an additional time, uh change? Difference? Anomaly? - with our return. I don't claim to understand this, but Pressi has some ideas, and Cameron, and others."

He looks around. "Speaking of ideas, in a moment Alleah will have something to show you all."

"Just before she does that, though, a few words. Mayor Bumbleluck, you are the leader of Humble's Ford. We leave it in your hands to draw the community together, to give people hope, to help us mourn the loss of life, to begin to lay out plans for the present and future. Let us know if you would like our help with these things, and we will do what we are able.

"Good Constable, I admired your leadership at the tower. If there is anything we can do to support you and the militia, let us know."

"And regarding plans - Alleah has a list of ideas she and I and a few others put together for your consideration. Alleah?"

[Of course, anyone may interject at any point during the above discourse - say what you have to say at the meeting - or perhaps DM Mark will further set that scene.]

Cameron (David F) AC 23 (T 15, FF 19) CMD 17 HP 50 /50 Character Sheet 
Friday January 22nd, 2016 12:37:07 PM
Cameron didn't know these halflings. None of them sparked any kind of memory from his childhood. . He had helped to save them because that was what a decent person did, and protecting those unable to protect themselves was what the aspect of Jancassis that he followed expected. Now that those that can be saved have been he reaches into his pocket for a snack and finds his magical pants don't work. He blends into the background and lets the others do the talking.
OOC
Sorry guys, suffering from a head cold that is making conscious thought hard. I'll try to catch up on all the stuff being asked over the weekend.

Bliss (AC20, HP43) & Mookie (AC19, HP21) (Cayzle)  d20+25=38 ;
Friday January 22nd, 2016 1:39:53 PM

Bliss comes along for the meeting, but his natural shyness in these situations asserts itself, and he finds himself hiding in plain sight. Unless someone calls on him.

Stealth 38

Questions and Answers (DM Mark) 
Friday January 22nd, 2016 2:18:03 PM
Murphy stands on a wagon, raises his hands, and addresses the crowd. He doesn’t really answer their questions. He does say that the Second Dinner Club was trying to stop this, but they were injured in the explosion that started the purple haze. He says he looked in the window and they were not there. He says Humble’s Sword was teleported away, and raced to return. He ask for them to be patient, and that their officials will give them a report.

Murphy allows the Mayor to decide who attends a meeting at his house.

Then Bliss delivers a stream of consciousness report of a 5-year old, and says they arrived 3 weeks ago in a place far, far away.

Pressi laments the loss of her tobacco, and shares her perspectives on Wardd. Then she delivers an eloquent speech to encourage those there.

Shel seeks out Alouryn. Hazel did return home safely, and she’s quite glad to have him back. Faoil seems glad of that too, sticking close to Hazel.

Alleah tries to get everyone moving back to town. Trill introduces herself. Kezzem and Cameron join in.
_____________________________________________________

In response to Murphy’s and Bliss’ remarks, there are a lot of confused looks and more questions. Madame LaRue says wistfully that all will be revealed in it’s time. Pirnook DeepPockets and Candy Badapple both look shrewdly a Murphy. Many there chime in.

“There’s more here that you’re not telling us.”
“Why do we need to wait for the authorities to tell us what you know? We want to hear it from you!”
“How did you get teleported away, and to where? Did it teleport you just down the road, because you only went into the tower a little bit ago. You’re not making sense boy. What’s going on here?”
“What was that Purple Haze (Murphy’s term), and why was it all in my brain?”
“Is it tomorrow, or just the end of time?”
“What will happen to us now with this Giant Tower not working?”
“Will Giants come eat us? I heard they eat halflings.”
“What will you do now?”

(There are also some repeat askings of the questions from the last post.)

Still, these are all halflings - even with all that has happened there is a sense of optimism in this crowd, touched with some sadness and fear. It’s an odd mix of feelings.

Amidst the questions, the town’s folks along with Humble’s Sword makes the long trek back to Humble’s Ford. Much praise and thanks are heaped on what they are calling Humble’s Heros. Well, most of them are calling you that.

As you pass the tower belonging to the Second Dinner Club, there are a number of frowns and stares at the dark tower. Pirnook DeepPockets spits toward the tower as you pass.

You reach town. The Mayor wants you all to come to come to Humble’s Burrow to discuss things with him. The Constable wants to know what’s going on. Mulberry DrinkWater throws her hair back as she steps forward, certain she is important enough to be in any such discussion. The two tavern owners seem to each want you at their place first - especially before the other. Candy Badapple says you’re hiding something. Pirnook DeepPockets thinks so too. The Mayor at first proposes you meet with just him. This is met with many insisting they are important enough to know the facts, and the Mayor folds like a house of cards. He proposed you address everyone there - he has nothing to hide, nothing at all.

Where do you go, and what do you tell to whom? You are pressed for information. Everyone want’s to know the answers and to be included.
_____________________________________________________
OOC: Thus ends the Tower related adventure! Or this part of it, anyway. Let’s take stock of where things are.

Humble’s Sword saw the Giant Tower begin to go haywire. They battled their way in, found the Second Dinner Club, who realized their folly. Almost everyone was saved from certain death by being sucked through a portal to Koshe Marr. How many halflings can say they’ve been to Koshe Marr and returned to tell the tale?!

When the heros made it back to their world, they were separated from the Second Dinner Club, and far from home - both geographically and temporally. They travelled through the Culverwood, fought some creatures there, and made some new friends. They desperately hoped to return in time to stop the death and destruction associated with the previous collapse of the Giant Tower.

The heros were partly successful. One of the Second Dinner Club is presumed dead, and two others are missing and may be dead as well. Three townsfolk died in the collapse, but quick work saved and healed many of the rest. Certainly, Humble’s Sword’s presence at the tower saved many lives - or so they assume. Right? They were not actually there when the tower collapsed the first time, so who knows for sure? But they are hailed as heros nonetheless!

Everyone advance your character to 38,000 XP. You are all 7th level.

Treasure list:
28/07
- 200gp (From gambling on an archery comp)

01/09
- bracers of armor + 1
- cloak of resistance +1
- mithral chain shirt +1
- wand of cure light wounds with 50 charges
- potion of bull's strength
- feather token of the fan variety
- MW Rapier
- MW Short Sword
- MW Comp Shortbow with a +1 Str bonus
- 20 arrows
- a tanglefoot bag
- a pearl - Spellcraft 24:Highlight to display spoiler: {Pearl of Power, 5th level}

12/09
- about 100 feet of hemp rope.

24/09
- a wind fan
- horn of fog
- ring of force shield
- unidentified magical chain shirt - Spellcraft 22:Highlight to display spoiler: {Chain Shirt, +2, Energy Resistance, Improved}
- unidentified magical cloak - Spellcraft 22:Highlight to display spoiler: {Cloak of Displacement, Major}

19/11
- pipes of haunting

04/01
- obsidian axe - Appraise 20:Highlight to display spoiler: {Worth 500 GP}

Now we begin a new adventure. For planning purposes, you may assume about a week of down time. Please let me know if more is needed. I’ll not draw that time out, but there are a few things that will happen during that time. I will try to cover that in 2 or 3 days of posting.

Murphy CMD 21 AC 19 HP 43/43 - (Kim). Meeting with a few leaders 
Friday January 22nd, 2016 2:36:15 PM
Step back
As Pressi places her hand on his shoulder, and indicates we might have succeeded, Murphy says, "Well, I'm thinking that maybe you were at least partly right in our earlier conversations. When I looked into the tower, I should have seen those of us who were there, or at least one or more of the wizards. Maybe we cannot overlap ourselves in time, entirely. But, y'know, we did help. You all who joined us later helped us, too in our aims, even though my arrow was deflected from my preferred target. And those of us who went through the portal, and the nightmare lands, and the Culverwood - it's like we got an extra three, almost four weeks of life, and picked up where we left off. My momentary anger is gone. I hope the powers above will forgive me my frustrated outburst. I'm just glad that we were able to save many lives here today. This tough day.

"So, you did the cigar thing, like you said, eh?" he concludes with a smile.

Which tavern?
Murphy says, "Yeah, I get in trouble in this town, because I go to both taverns. There's this rivalry, you see. You pick a tavern, and you stick with it. Otherwise, you're considered too wishy washy, or disloyal, or suspect. My family mainly goes to the Buster. But the Dancing Pig is quite lively. Better food at the former. Better action at the latter. I'm going to stop in at the Buster for half an hour, then head to the Pig for the balance of the evening. I can take being called names, if they want to, for visiting both of our fine inns."

Murphy CMD 21 AC 19 HP 43/43 - (Kim). Meeting with a few leaders 
Friday January 22nd, 2016 2:40:27 PM

[Above post I did before I saw terrific DM post. Forgot to refresh. Will respond later... work calls.]

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 19, HP 43/43, CMD 22 
Friday January 22nd, 2016 2:46:19 PM
Pressi, not really an expert on this stuff, sometimes wishes that she weren't the only one cloistered at a library. People with knowledge in planes or spellcraft would have a better shot at understanding this than those relying on mythology and cloistered star charters. A cleric who didn't spend all their time outside would have a better shot. But she opened her mouth, so... (Knowledge Religion (Take 10) 15).

"The important thing to keep in mind is that space is a funny thing," she began as she drew a three by three grid of dots on a piece of paper. "The basic rule of space is that one can only connect two dots with a straight line. Which leads to the classic problem of how to connect these nine dots with the smallest number of lines possible..."

Pressi folded up the paper and shoved her writing instrument to all nine dots. "The unfolded paper is our universe. This is what happened to your tower. This is why I don't trust magic, by the way."

Things kind of went downhill from there as Pressi, passing on her barely remembered surface memories of these complex astronomy explanations given in passing between training, tries to explain it to politicians who don't seem to even understand time as a dimension. But slowly she explains what happened based on her secondhand understanding of Murphy's notes. About how plane jumping brought them back in time. About how a timeline can't really handle people jumping in the past, especially when the goal is to stop them from jumping into the past. About how what is the past for some is present for others.

Pressi keeps on flipping through the notes as best as she could. "Wait, was there too much power or not enough?"

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 19, HP 43/43, CMD 22 
Friday January 22nd, 2016 2:47:00 PM
Yeah, posted before seeing DM posts too.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 22, HP 48/48, CMD 19 
Friday January 22nd, 2016 3:21:11 PM
"So, didn't someone say they had free beer at the Pig?" asks Kezzem. "Sounds like the place to go to me!"

OOC: Did we ever resolve the character wealth discrepancy issues? If not, I'm fine letting the original crew divide the loot among themselves first as Kezzem and the other late comers started off relatively better off gearwise.

Shel Gerald--AC 15/14/12--CMD 14--HP 39/39  d20+9=14 ; d20+9=18 ; d20+9=27 ;
Friday January 22nd, 2016 6:11:18 PM
OOC: Spellcraft rolls for the pearl 14, the chain shirt 18, and the cloak 27. I am snowed in and unable to get to my main computer so I can read the spoiler. Please read the cloak spoiler and assume Shel shares the knowledge with everyone.

Shel was overjoyed to see her friends were well. She hugged Alouryn and Hazel tightly, and tried to explain exactly what happened to them. As Shel wasn't 100% sure, she was probably confusing them more than providing an explanation.

She quickly made her way back to the group as she hears Murphy and Pressi try to explain the whole hing to the town. She just didn't have the energy for that. When she hears them talk about dinner; she finally smiled. It's been too long since she had eaten at the Pig. She was ready to tuck into some food right now!

Murphy CMD 21 AC 19 HP 43/43 - (Kim). Meeting with a few leaders 
Friday January 22nd, 2016 7:13:35 PM
How does this sound? Often in the intermezzo periods (we hang around town for a few days), fairly unlimited posting is allowed, say over a weekend, wrap-up posts on Monday, and the launch of the new module on Tuesday. If that is fine with our DM and players, shall we go that direction?

Oh, and Shel identifies the cloak we found among the fey black widow spiders as a Cloak of Displacement, Major.

Trill (AC: 22/17/22, HP: 53/54, CMD: 20, hasted, bull's strength) (Kent) 
Friday January 22nd, 2016 11:11:41 PM
Trill enjoys her time among her new friends but is a little overwhelmed by the attention and meeting all of the people that her new friends know, not to mention she feels a bit uncomfortable as it is apparent that some of them have quite a bit of history together.

"As the conversation turns around the tower and such, Trill broaches the subject with Murphy and the others. While I am not all sure what happened here or before and I am not at all sure what you all were trying to do, do we need to check out the tower at this point to make sure it is safe or at least not going to open some dimensional rift to somewhere that some unsuspecting halfling wanders into? "

Cameron (David F) AC 23 (T 15, FF 19) CMD 17 HP 50 /50 Character Sheet 
Saturday January 23rd, 2016 5:37:00 AM
Cameron, knowing some things about giants fields the questions about them.
" If giants attack the valley we will repel them. They can be beaten so long as we work together. My kin have been fighting giants for centuries, I'll send work to them and see if they will send some warriors to teach us how to do it. There is nothing we cannot overcome in defense of our homes."

Alleah -- RobC -- AC 14/13/12 -- CMD 12 -- HP 39/39 
Saturday January 23rd, 2016 6:36:32 AM
Let's walk and talk then. As we head back to town I'll be happy to tell you all about what we think happened"

Alleah will begin the story with what the party remember of the tower, of Koshe Marr, the goblin family, the Culverwood, the nymph, the traders on the river, the orcs, the snakes, the gorillon, the man who "generously" sold the party his cart and horse. She doesn't think the party have anything to hide.

Alleah has only been to the Dancing Pig, and that is where she will be going next. She finds a nearby youth and offers him a few coppers to head to the Temple of Ffloy and pass on a message "The Humble's Sword are back in town. Miss Alleah wonders if the Broker would be free for tea tomorrow morning"

-------------------------------
OOC: I have put an order in at the Catacombs to sell our loot

Shel Gerald--AC 15/14/12--CMD 14--HP 39/39 
Saturday January 23rd, 2016 8:58:09 PM
Shel tells everyone all about the cloak. After she talks about its abilities, she whispers to the Sword, "That's the most expensive thing Ive ever seen. If we could find someone to buy that, we could sell it for a fortune!".

She'd never been poor by any stretch, but she had heard rumors about certain magic items that could make her weak magic more powerful. Perhaps she could afford at least one of those neat items.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 19, HP 53/53, CMD 22 
Sunday January 24th, 2016 4:40:45 PM
OOC: New Sheet and Updated Header

Bliss (AC20, HP43) & Mookie (AC19, HP21) (Cayzle) 
Sunday January 24th, 2016 6:42:16 PM
Bliss is happy to chat with people, though he is shy. At different points in the evening and in the days after, he talks and answers any questions people have:

"We don't know how we got teleported away. It was a nightmare trick, from the land of nightmares, where trees are made of glass and they break if you are loud. Just ask Mookie, he was there before!"

(Mookie wisely makes himself scarce for this whole episode.)

"And we escaped through a magic tavern that had a gate that brought us to Izen because we found these lost goblin kids and we had to make sure they got home safe. We didn't know we'd end up getting back to the Wold before we left it!"

"We don't know what happens next! We're not seers! Right now all I want is a rest!"

In the coming days, Bliss makes some potions, does his training, and tells his friends he wants to find a mage to cast a spell for him. "I'm tired of casting my spell to make me small all the time. I'd rather have a wizard make it permanent."

He asks around for where he could find such a caster for hire. Angel Springs, maybe?

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 19, HP 53/53, CMD 22 
Sunday January 24th, 2016 8:19:54 PM
The meetings are done and the bar hopping has finished. Though Murphy had promised her a night around, it had been clear from how they entered the town that it wasn't happening tonight.

Pressi began to unpack in one of the hotels - the Dancing Pig, she believed. It had been much of a blur, though the Pig patrons seemed especially recognizing of the crazy dance girl. She would eventually have to figure out where to stay, what to do. Did the members of her group even have jobs. Pressi tried to imagine Bliss in between sniping gigs - an accountant maybe? Would her old temple approve of her staying here, where they don't even have a statue of Domi? Would Leska worry without Pressi's protection and help? And what would she do without Leska's?

Shrugging, Pressi turned to the lamp under a hanging acorn on a black cord. With a quick breath, she extinguished the light.

Alleah -- RobC -- AC 19/13/17 -- CMD 13 -- HP 45/45 
Sunday January 24th, 2016 8:30:42 PM
Alleah has quite a bit planned to do over the coming days

--------------------

She arranges to meet the Broker Iangold Laughshield (who gave her permission to refer to him informally as 'Ian') over tea. She relays the entire journey of the party once more, and in detail for him. She tells him about Rais and Isra, and how she couldn't save the goblin boy. She also tells him about that no good haggler on the road, who sold them the cart at a huge markup.

--------------------

Alleah also sneaks away from the party for a few hours at a time. When she returns the keen eyed observers will notice that she now wears a WLA badge!

"I figure I can do more good and be more a hero with a whole organisation to support me. And even if I am a member of the WLA, I can still uphold the ideals of the Walkers" To that end, Alleah still intends to only deal non-lethal damage if she can.

--------------------

Alleah spends some time each day crafting a magnificent headband to wear and bolster her intuition. (Crafting a Headband of Inspired Wisdom)

--------------------

Alleak will also enquire as to how Quotiln is settling into the community. Has anyone been giving him a hard time? Does he have everything he needs? She will praise him on how the animals fare and how the farmstead looks Highlight to display spoiler: {Quotiln was an enemy NPC who reformed. By pure DM coincidence, he has the same last name as Alleah: "Lighttouch". Alleah believes he is a relative on her father's side, but has not confessed this to anyone - even Quotiln. Alleah has paid him an entire year of wages in advance to live with the party and tend to the farm and animals})

Murphy CMD 21 AC 19 HP 43/43 - (Kim). Meeting with a few leaders 
Monday January 25th, 2016 3:50:54 AM

At the Mayor's House
Murphy acknowledges Mayor Bumbleluck, Constable Roscoe Hornblower, and the mass of additional folks who came. He considers Madame LaRue, a wise woman, who helped them following the assassination of Sarabella Lovesong. Candy BadApple, a formidable competitor. He knows her sister Crystal, a cleric of Flower, is one of Alouryn's best friends. Pirnook Deeppockets - a shrewd businessman, with an outpost of the Catacombs here in town tucked into a corner of his general store. Primula PipeLeaf, wife of Hugo, and she the best blacksmith in town, with the two of them running the Slings and Arrows shop. He holds good respect for her, and knows she was helping to rescue several today.

Murphy is much more forthcoming in his description of what happened than he was earlier. One, Bliss pretty much gave the gist of things. Two, it was not difficult to discern that the druid himself had not laid out the full story immediately following the tower's downfall. Three, Alleah went into much detail. He explains his initial reluctance to talk about traveling back in time. "Despite that's what really happened, I recently tried to explain to others outside our group the notion of going back in time - and they did not believe it. They laughed. So, I don't know whether you all believe it or not. And, I apologize for not opening up fully when first asked, but really did not know how the folks would receive it.

"That said, on our journey back, I got to thinking about what we might do should the tower go through the destruction we just witnessed. I jotted down some ideas for preparations we might make. An old proverb says that 'in the abundance of counselors there is wisdom,' so surely many among us gathered here will have additional ideas, additional things we might do to help protect our town and our valley. Here, I'll just read quickly through it," he says to those assembled, then, looking to Mayor Bumbleluck, "then will turn the paper over to you to do with as you will, sir."

Murphy opens the paper, and reads the following:
===============
Humble's Ford and Crescent Valley
Ideas for dealing with loss of tower

- Send people to check out adjacent towers. Discuss with other tower keepers the new situation. Will the remaining towers continue to afford a measure of protection? Would giants from the north have to funnel through the opening left by Humble Ford's tower?

- From Second Dinner Club (if any can be found), learn what we can about tower defense. Can the tower be rebuilt? To echo what was written above - how does the loss of one affect the strength of the others?

- Find Shafbaffum. And/Or see if any of his writings exist. (Possible resources: Library at Lawni's Lens; also Mungo HardBottle, a real history buff, in Angel Springs has an extensive library)

Prepare layered defenses against the giants from the north:
- Set up long-distance communications mechanisms from north to south (and south to north). Fire stands? Semaphore? Sound relays?
- Dig trenches with light cover to cause biguns to fall - maybe some will break a leg or something else.
- Dig trenches to fill with fuel which may be lit on fire
- How might we use the river as a defense against the giants?
- Set up missile batteries - slings, sling staffs, crossbows, bows, etc. Tanglefoot bag launchers? Alchemical items cast through the air against invaders...
- Set up defensive barricades
- Discuss strengths of giants and how to mitigate
- Discuss weaknesses of giants and how to amplify
- See if Lomar might help militia with practicing tactics vs. giants - without harming Lomar
- Arm housewives with skillets, in accord with ancient tradition on one means used to handle invading giants by valley dwellers
- Strengthen burrows against marauding giants' feet
- Find safe haven for children
- Other ideas?

We should engage whole of Crescent Valley in dealing with the situation. Contact leaders and militia from Angel Springs and from Hovel.

-MLP
===============

The towhead listens to all that others have to say during the meeting, trying honestly to answer whatever questions they may have, and seeking to absorb what wisdom, counsel and knowledge is shared.

Murphy CMD 21 AC 19 HP 43/43 - (Kim). Evening rounds 
Monday January 25th, 2016 4:35:46 AM

A Place to Stay - Humble's Sword Burrow
As they leave the meeting at the Mayor's house, Murphy tells the new friends who have been traveling with them, "Say, we have a place down by the river - our own burrow. There's plenty of room. So, Trillium, Pressi, Kezzem, Cameron - Would you care to join us there? You can meet Cora Callico, who helps keep the mice population down, and Quotiln, also Hazel, Alouryn - and any strays they may have picked up."

For Murphy: 1. His family home (5 minutes); 2. Belly Buster (1/2 hour); 3. Dancing Pig (a few hours); 4. Humble's Sword Burrow
Murphy invites any of his adventuring friends who want to join him on his rounds. "I'll make quick introductions to any who come with me. My folks and siblings may be back there. Of course, from their perspective, I just left there a few hours ago. Just a couple minutes there, then I need to stop at the Belly Buster. After that, I'll join you all at the Dancing pig, maybe in half an hour or so."

He knows that Shel, Alleah, Bliss, and Mookie know their way around the town, as does Kezzem, and Pressi a little bit, but Cameron and Trillium do not. "This is a great time to see some of the night life of Humble's Ford - tomorrow we can show you around the rest of the place, I'm sure.

To Pressi
"When I was carrying a woman and an older boy away from the tower today in my ape guise, I saw the crowd you'd gathered around you. Leska is right, you are a beautiful dancer. And clever, too. Thanks for playing your role in today's work, Press. How 'bout tomorrow I show you 'round town like I promised a few days back? By the way, I think I understood about half of what you were saying tonight. I liked the folded paper illustration, though.

To Shel
"Remember when we were in the Red Hills, Shel? And how hot it was? After the troll named Stupid left? And the rain fell, but evaporated about a hundred feet above the ground?" His hand is behind his back. "And you were so hot? And all of us felt miserable?" He gives her a moment to recall that. "You loved it when I did this," And from behind his back, he pulls his twenty ounce Teucri drinking mug, and pours the contents over her head.

Well, it was not cool water this time, but instead a whole bunch of little teenie tiny torn up pieces of paper.

He steps back, one hand before him to fend her off. "Oh, oh, right, I used water in the desert. Sorry. Minor detail." Then he runs away, well, for a few feet. If she goes to hit him, He just covers up and let's her rain blows on him - he knows she won't put too much force into it.

"I just want to say how I appreciate you, Shel. You and I are the only two who've been with the group the whole time since the Games, and we got started. It would be nice to have Hazel and Alouryn back with us on the travels - who knows, Hazel might join in again. I get the feeling, though, that Alouryn has had enough travel outside town for now. But at least, we can see her for the time being."

He then adds, "Look, Shel, we'll likely be needed here in town for a while, and that's fine with me. I don't know what your plans are. And you don't need to say right now. But, I'm wondering - if Humble's Sword - or," he adds with a chuckle, "'Humble's Heros' are asked to do something outside of town again, are you up for heading out to who knows where again?"

Murphy scratches the back of his neck. "Look, I'm going to ask the others the same question. But, since we're the only two from way back - well, if a year or so is way back - I thought I should ask you first. Again, you don't have to answer now. But think it over, all right? Because, if it's some sort of trouble we're being asked to go into, I trust you to be the sort who knows what to do, and who isn't going to go running off when your friends need help."

He pauses. "And, if you say, 'yes,' then, maybe you can help me ask the others. Does that sound reasonable to you?" he asks seriously, but with a brightness in his eyes.

Others in the group
Don't feel left out - Murphy will engage with you later on Monday. He wants to get Shel's response, first. [And Kim has to go to bed]

Questions and Answers (DM Mark) 
Monday January 25th, 2016 12:01:02 PM
The party has returned to Humble’s Ford with the crowd.

Murphy explains the difference between the taverns. He relates all of what happened. Relatively few can even conceive of time travel, let alone understand the ramifications. Murphy outlines his plans, some ways the town could address the loss of the tower, and where folks could stay. [OOC: I cannot address all the issues and people Murphy brings up issues - I will leave it to others to respond to Murphy if they wish.]

Pressi laments her lack of academic knowledge of the planes and time loops. She also wonders what the future holds for her - where will she stay, what will she do?

Kezzem only cares about the beer.

Shel is happy to see her friends, and listens to the discussions. Then her stomach growls.

Trill says you all need to go make sure the fallen tower poses no further magical threat.

Cameron says his kin have been fighting giants for a long time, and offers for them to come and teach the folks in the Crescent Valley how to prepare for giants.

Alleah will begin to tell the tale as they all walk back, but if frequently interrupted as everyone strains to hear what she says in a moving crowd. She gets asked the same question so many time, she decides to wait until they reach the Mayor’s house. She also send a message to the Broker from the Temple of Ffloy asking for a meeting.

Bliss relates more of their tale, and asks where he can find a caster for a spell he needs cast. He is told that he can seek help at the Center for The Enlightened Spirituality & Arcane Arts.
___________________________________________________________
An impromptu gathering is held in front of the Mayor’s house. Mayor Bumbleluck declares you all the Heros of Humble’s Ford, and those present cheer in response. Many questions are asked and answered.

A messenger from the Belly Buster is sent to tell you that drinks are on the house tonight for the Heros of Humble’s Ford! Then a messenger from the Dancing Pig tells you that drinks and food are on the housetonight for the Heros of Humble’s Ford. Shortly after that, a messenger from the Belly Buster arrives that they are offering free food and drink for tonight and tomorrow night to the Heros, and that their food is much better than the Pig. A messenger from the Pig tells you that in addition to two nights of free food and drink, the Hero’s may stay there for free.

By the time you’re done, you can get 4 days of free food, drink, lodging, dancing lessons at either establishment. Please note on your character sheet which tavern you pick - are you a Buster or a Pig. Or a Pleaser if you go to both. (You need not all make the same choice.) The Buster does have better food, but the Pig has better music and dancing. If you choose to be a Buster OR a Pig, you are offered the 4 night deal. Those that visit both can count on only 2 days of freebies as non-committal Pleasers.

There is much revelry, and then rest. The next day, life in Humble’s Ford returns to relative normalcy. There is some concern by Constable Hornblower that the loss of this tower leaves the town vulnerable to giants. The Mayor decides that he’s worried about the giants too, and this concern spreads. The Constable is is thankful for Cameron’s offer, and asks who his kin are and how they would get here?

Also the next day, the Broker from the Temple of Ffloy will meet with Alleah, but is also interested in talking to all of you. In addition, visitors from Hovel and Angel Springs arrive, many of whom by at least some of you know in one way or another. They will tell you that the other Giant Towers seem to be functioning, but the loss of the one near Humble’s Ford makes them almost irrelevant. There is concern about what this could mean.

These visitors include members of the WLA, and if anyone want’s to join or train, they will facilitate that in Humble’s Ford over the next week. You are all becoming rather famous.
___________________________________________________________

Bliss visits the Center for The Enlightened Spirituality & Arcane Arts. He is told that they expect a visiting mage there in the next few days. A mage does arrive who can cast this spell for the usual fee. The Headmaster at the Center is also interested in speaking to all of your about your adventures, especially your visit to Koshe Marr and back. Regarding time travel, the current theory is that time is resilient, and it can be very difficult to change events in time. The more important the event, the harder it is to change. Likewise, the harder you push on such events, the more the universe pushes back to maintain the timeline. They also believe it is not possible to see or interact with yourself if you go back in time - you’re simply not there. This not-thereness can push into those you are in contact with at the time. Or at least that’s what they think.

Alleah meets privately with the Broker Iangold Laughshield, and relates information. He is keenly interested in all she has to say. Regarding the trader/farmer Hevin Longroot, he is not very sympathetic - he interprets the event as a shrewd business deal. Later that week, he will meet with the whole party, and will corroborate some of the above time-travel theories, though he does things that events in time can be changed.
___________________________________________________________
There are growing murmers of concern and unease rippling through the community. I need 7 Daily Diplomacy Checks DC 10 to keep things calm. Just one check for the party will do - I will simply use the first 7 checks posted.

You will also find that your magic items are functioning the next day.

OOC: I know this may be a bit confusing with a week of downtime and everyone wanting to do so much. I responded to a few things above. Please let me know generally (and concisely) what you do over this week. In tomorrow’s post, I’ll go over events that happen over the week you’re there, you can respond, and in Wednesday's post I’ll wrap that up and move things forward. Be sure to let me know if I’m rushing things.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 22, HP 48/48, CMD 19 
Monday January 25th, 2016 7:32:11 PM
Kezzem spends the time drinking beer, wooing the lady halflings with (exaggerated) tales of his adventure, and playing cards. If consulted about the giants, Kezzems solution is to stab them until the stop moving.

Alleah -- RobC -- AC 19/13/17 -- CMD 13 -- HP 45/45  d20+6=25 ; d20+10=19 ;
Monday January 25th, 2016 7:36:15 PM
In an attempt to help calm nerves and show the community that the "Humble's Heroes" care, Alleah spends some time at the temple handing out the vegetables that the party bought. The vegetables are handed out freely, but to ensure there is enough to go around, she tries to limit it to 4 or 5 pieces per family.

She also visits those who are still injured from the tower incident. She does what she can to tend to any wounds, whether just be spending time and talking, changing bandages, or by casting healing spells.

-------------------------------------
Diplomacy: 25
Heal: 19

Alleah -- RobC -- AC 19/13/17 -- CMD 13 -- HP 45/45  d3=1 ;
Monday January 25th, 2016 7:40:02 PM
Alleah rolls a die and trusts in Wardd to tell her which tavern she should go to (1 = Pig, 2 = Buster, 3 = Bpth)

Satisfied that Wardd has directed her what to do, in her down time she visits the Dancing Pig exclusively (Sheet updated to reflect this is her preference)

Shel Gerald--AC 15/14/12--CMD 14--HP 39/39  d20+8=24 ;
Monday January 25th, 2016 10:36:11 PM
OOC: Diplomacy 24.

Shel reminds the townsfolk how the group has assisted them in the past, and they'd be happy to do so again, if the need arose. They grumbled, but seemed to generally agree with her.

Shel was surprised when Murphy talked to her about leaving already. "I'm honestly not sure, Murphy. For the last month, all I could think about was getting home. But before that, I've always wanted to see some of the big world we live on. I'm not sure how I will feel in another month or two here. Maybe I'll never want to leave again. But maybe, I'll be ready to chase after That next big challenge that seems to come our way. We'll see."

Cameron (David F) AC 23 (T 15, FF 19) CMD 17 HP 50 /50 Character Sheet  d20+6=7 ; d20+8=25 ; d20+8=15 ; d20+8=19 ; d20+8=16 ; d20+8=20 ;
Monday January 25th, 2016 11:24:57 PM
Cameron explains that he was raised in the Scab, by the Steelshaper clan after his parent's deaths. As they lived outside of Hovel some older halflings may remember Carter and Lily Honeytamer, but Cameron was little more than a toddler when Morgan rescued him and took him to live in the Scab, so he will remember none of them. He makes plans to contact his Grandfater there and see what can be done to make the halflings ready for giants.

Cameron appropriates one of the more solid barrels and takes it to the Burrow that Murphy indicates will be his new home. He is grateful to the Sword for taking him in and he will do what he can to reassure the people that the giants are not a threat.
Diplomacy 7
Apparently he is none too convincing so he leaves this talk to the more well known of Humble's Heroes.

Cameron will choose an establishment by the act he will most likely be doing there, Gambling and drinking. ( which one fits those criteria?)

He trains with his brothers in the WLA when they visit and learns more about riding from them.

What was the Barrel for? Cameron spends the next day at the blacksmith asking if they can make a lightweight tube that would be similar to a reed and fit it with a mouthpiece. He would like it long enough for a halfling in a barrel to be able to breathe through it. Once he has this tube, his nightly devotions to Jancassis are held in the barrel, with it filled with water. Many of the goddess's teaching are based on beeing able to shut out external influences and hear the answers that come from the inside. The poison that is used by he clerics in their rituals serves to numb them to these distractions. Since he is now immune to the small scorpions and spiders he used to ingest in these rituals, and has not yet found a reliable source for centipedes to replace them, he will use the barrel.
Cameron spends the remainder of his week following the designs of Jancassis. He uses her hunting teachings to seek out and capture new spiders, scorpions and vipers so that he can begin to use them as poison sources. Back at the Tree, before he was good enough at hunting, he had purchased one of each critter. Now he wanted to prove his worth to her and hunt them. He listens to rumors around town as to nuisance pests and the like and helps by catching them. Otherwise, if there are none in town he will head into the surrounding woodlots in search of the vermin.
( Survival rolls for this hunting? Are those what I should make? 25, 15, 19, 16, 20)

OOC
Still working on leveling.
Skills are done. I'll go roll HP after I post this. Feats and stuff might have to wait another couple days while I roll them around in my noggin a little more.
One of my catacombs purchases will be a sending scroll to see if I can get dwarven tutors to come from home.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 22, HP 56/56, CMD 20  d8=5 ;
Monday January 25th, 2016 11:48:20 PM
Header Update (for Level 7)

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 22, HP 56/56, CMD 20 
Monday January 25th, 2016 11:50:19 PM
Update with corrected link

Murphy CMD 21 AC 19 HP 43/43 - (Kim). Evening rounds 
Tuesday January 26th, 2016 4:26:51 AM

[Gang, I'm finishing my last few days on my current job, and have found myself heavily pressed for time. Most of the things I've wanted to get to here have been set aside for the moment. Too tired at the moment to think clearly. Will try to post something substantial tomorrow.]

Murphy is busy, helping his friends get to know this place, talking with townsfolk. Also, he lays a plot for a garden next to the burrow, setting up small raised beds for varieties of plants and herbs.

Bliss (AC20, HP43) & Mookie (AC19, HP21) (Cayzle) 
Tuesday January 26th, 2016 7:28:46 AM

Bliss visits both taverns. Suddenly he has lots of gold, so he does not worry about the cost. Mookie chides him on being more careful, and the tiny guy tries harder to be practical.

He definitely visits the traveling wizard and arranges for his Permenent Reduce.

He also visits the Catacombs.

He is interested to see Alleah's new badge, like his own. "We can be adventurers together!" he declares, oblivious to the fact that they already are.

Alleah -- RobC -- AC 19/13/17 -- CMD 13 -- HP 45/45 
Tuesday January 26th, 2016 7:45:39 AM
"Hey, you're a higher rank than me." Alleah observes, before adding with a smile "Does that mean I have to follow your orders or call you 'sir' ?"

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 19, HP 53/53, CMD 22  d20+4=21 ; d20+6=23 ; d20+5=16 ;
Tuesday January 26th, 2016 9:51:45 AM
Pressi isn't crazy about the idea of choosing a place without even trying both, and she makes that abundantly clear with elements of "what have you got to hide?" (Intimidate 21). But eventually, as she follows Murphy and the group from place to place, she realizes that maybe she does have to pick one - and find a place to live besides the burrow.

"It's a little tough to explain," she tells Murphy, "but... I guess I still need to know I can't be kicked out. Besides, I'd be moving in with you. It freaks me out that we won't be on our first date until tomorrow and I would be moving in with you. Does that not freak you out?"

So she eventually pledged herself to the Dancing Pig, eventually. More particularly, she began to talk to the owners about getting a job there for a bit, in part exchange for room and board (Profession Courtesan 23). After some discussion of her past work and dancing skills, Pressi reminds the Dancing Pig owner that hiring a "Humble's Hero" would give the other inn an "aneurysm."

Through their travels, Pressi does attempt to calm down the other residents through her usual diplomatic insults. (Diplomacy 16). Through the power of Pressi's anti-charisma, the crowd is at least somewhat persuaded.

Questions and Answers (DM Mark) 
Tuesday January 26th, 2016 11:11:22 AM
Kezzem spends his time drinking, carousing and describing what he would do to those giants.

Aleah does what she can for the community and those that were injured. She finds that while all the wounds are healed, some are still traumatized by what happened. Wardd guides her to patronize the Dancing Pig.

Shel offers to help, but is still uncertain about her future plans.

Cameron plans to contact his dwarven grandfather to help the town prepare for giants. He trains with the WLA, and they are very interested in what he has to tell them. He builds a sensory deprivation tank out of a barrel to meditate on Jancasis’ teachings. He hunts vermin, managing to capture several spiders, some of which the townsfolk are glad to be rid of. They’re also a little freaked out by the creatures he seeks. But most significantly, he manages to find a scorpion with most unusual markings - it has red and black criss-cross markings on it’s back. Initially, it’s rather aggressive, but amenable to Cameron’s handling so long as it’s fed. This is unlike anything Cameron has seen before.

Cameron visits both taverns, finding that both offer drinking but neither has much gambling going on except for some dice and card games here and there.

Murphy remains alert, and is concerned about the loss of the Giant Tower. He attempts to keep everyone in town calm. To show them they have nothing to worry about, he begins work on a raised garden bed.

Bliss visits both taverns. He is able to get a permanent reduce spell cast on himself. He’s quite the novelty in town. Most folks refer to him as a leprechaun or a brownie, and he’s jokingly asked where his pot of gold is located. (Technically leprechaun’s are small size too, but no one here has actually seen a leprechaun, so their reputations for being “small” has even these halflings thinking they must be smaller than a halfling.)

Pressi thinks more about her relationship to Murphy, and comments that it would be odd for them to live together before they’re even dating. She seeks out the Dancing Pig, and asks if she can perform in exchange for a room there. The owner of the Pig says they can try out the arrangement for a couple weeks to see how it goes. She dances well, and is often asked to teach others. Some there seem to need continual instruction, though she doubts they are really that slow to learn. She also attempts to calm the mood in town.

Trill remains quiet and sullen, refusing to participate.
___________________________________________________________
As the week progresses, several things occur.

The Mayor of Humble’s Ford. along with Constable Hornblower and the Broker from the Church of Ffloy meet with Humble’s Sword and say they reflect the town’s concern regarding the seeming vulnerability with the loss of the Giant Tower. They are grateful for Cameron’s offer of some Dwarven Training, but are unsure if that is enough. They want to know what the hero’s plan to do about the loss of the tower. Their attitude remains helpful because of what you’ve done for them.

On another day, there is a visit from some of the folks you know form Hovel. They are very worried about what has happened. Perhaps even more concerning is that Humble’s Sword was recently in Hovel and seemed to know this would happen. They want to know why they failed to prevent this, and what they may have done to cause it. (Diplomacy 21 to move them from their unfriendly attitude to indifferent.)

Subsequently, a delegation arrives from Angel Springs. The Baron arrives with a number of “generals”, and a human that introduces himself as Graff. (Knowledge Local DC 10:Highlight to display spoiler: { This man is a powerful druid that lives near Angel Springs and often visits Humble’s Ford.} The Baron asks what happened to the towers, and is deeply concerned. He says the folks in Angel Springs are very worried. After listening to their story, they ask what the heros plan to do about this. (Diplomacy DC 18 to move them from indifferent to helpful.)

Does anyone offer words of encouragement or alarm at these three meetings?

As the week progresses in Humble’s Ford, the general mood is tense. People are worries. Visitors from the other towns and from nearby farms add to this. I need 7 total Diplomacy rolls representing interaction with an agitated townsfolk each day for 7 days. So far, I have Diplomacy rolls of 25, 24, 7, 16 - 3 more please. (These rolls are different than the above two for the visits from Hovel and Angel Springs.)

Trill (AC: 22/17/22, HP: 53/54, CMD: 20, hasted, bull's strength) (Kent)  d20+6=13 ; d20+18=31 ; d20+6=17; d20+6=18 ; d20+15=28 ; d20+12=13 ;
Tuesday January 26th, 2016 4:41:21 PM
Trillium takes up the offer of the use of the burrow for the time being, and at the moment seems to be splitting her time between the two establishments, generally lunch at one then dinner at the other reversing the meals the next day, meeting as many people as she can, and trying to get out of the funk she seems to have fallen into since acquiring these new friends.

Most mornings find her out in the game field practicing her slinging and archery shooting targets from different distances and positions and even while on the move. The afternoons she finds herself wandering out toward the tower and watching it looking to see if there is anything going on or if there appear to be any changes and then wandering through the wooded areas getting to know the area and trying to see if there seems to be anything out of whack with nature due to the explosion. Perception 31, knowledge nature DC 28, survival DC 13

She recognizes Graff by name and reputation Know local DC 13 and sits in on the meetings and even tries her hand out at being diplomatic Diplomacy DC 17 & DC 18 and manages to keep herself from blowing her top as everyone seems to think that the issue with the towers is their fault and their responsibility to do something about.

"So, has anyone heard anything from the wizards, this "Dinner Club" group? What have they to say about this? It seems to me from what I have learned, that the towers were what they were here for. I am no mage but I might suggest that someone might send to the the Star Mages to see what light they may be able to shed on the situation."



Pressi (Melvin) - AC 19, HP 53/53, CMD 22  d20+5=7 ; d20+5=13 ; d20+5=15 ;
Tuesday January 26th, 2016 7:51:10 PM
Pressi's days begin to fill rather quickly. While not living at the burrow currently, she recognizes that she needs to stop by during the day to get her orders and provide her input. Her dancing and teaching duties begin to fill up most evenings.

Pressi began to suspect that some of her dancing students were dragging their feet, particularly as she began to introduce some eastern dance moves and acrobatics to the group. Frustrated, she began to raise the pressure on her students, but suspected that she might need a new approach. (She also had a wild thought that she might be able to teach some of the better students a few unarmed strikes.)

Murphy did find some time to show Pressi around the town. And to take her out again a few nights later.

Pressi also waited for a response to the letter she sent Leska, but the temple had been prompt if oblique. They said they would contact her later, but for now she should remain where the gods really wanted her to remain. A punishment for her failure, she worried. Part of her wondered - hoped - that they saw something more in the situation at hand.

-------------------

Pressi volunteered to go to the Hovel delegation if need be. She had a quite diplomatic strategy of reminding them that the tower would have stood had Hovel not laughed in their faces, followed by a reminder that she could choke them with key body parts. For now, though, she concentrated on the Angel Springs delegation in the hopes that she would recognize people from her last home.

It hadn't been going well so far (Know Local 7). Too much time away, she supposed. With a cough, she began her diplomatic discussions as she laid out the discussions her team had so far (Diplomacy 13). She has better luck with the townsfolk (Diplomacy 15).

Shel Gerald--AC 15/14/12--CMD 14--HP 39/39  d20+8=16 ;
Tuesday January 26th, 2016 8:02:33 PM
OOC: I'll mark down my Catacombs purchases and update my character sheet and header tomorrow.

Shel tried to talk some sense to the Hovel-ers. "We explained exactly what was happening. We told you it sounded strange, and then we warned you of what was voting to happen if we didn't get back in time. Despite our best efforts, we were a bit late. We did our best. You all saw us, you know how hard we were trying to save that tower and the people of this town. We did our best."

Despite Shel's best efforts, she didn't win over the group.

Alleah -- RobC -- AC 19/13/17 -- CMD 13 -- HP 45/45  d20+7=17 ; d20+6=23 ; d20+6=16 ; d20+6=21 ; d20+6=12 ; d20+6=18 ;
Tuesday January 26th, 2016 8:08:59 PM
The Meeting with the Mayor, Constable and Broker
------------------------------------------------
Alleah listens intently, but is relaxed. She has met all three men before and never had an issue with any of them. "Our plan regarding the loss of the tower? I'm sure we'd be happy to help, but we are just citizens of this good town. We have no more say in what to do about the tower than anyone else. If, as Mayor, you have some thoughts that you would like our help with then I'm sure we can oblige. Similarly, if the good Constable has some thoughts on preserving the peace, we can help with that too."

Alleah does not want to take responsibility for the Tower or the defence of Humble's. Isn't that what the Mayor and Constable are for?


The Folks from Hovel
------------------------------------------------
Diplomacy vs DC21 : 23
"Truth be told we have no true idea what caused the collapse of the tower or why." Alleah says with all honesty. It's true, the Second Dinner Club were meddling 'in another timeline' but there's no way of knowing whether that is what happened now. "It is concerning that something that stood for so long has now crumbled. We live in uncertain times."

"As for knowing it was to occur, don't you have any seers? Divinations can be a powerful tool when used properly"

"I suggest we turn the topic to "what now?". What will be the effect of losing the tower? Can it be rebuilt? Yes. Let us think of the future rather than dwell on the past"


The Folks from Angel Springs
------------------------------------------------
Knowl Local vs DC10: 17
Diplomacy vs DC18 : 16

"What we plan to do? I can't speak for everyone else, but I plan to do what I've always done. Combat evil wherever I might find it, whilst protecting good and honest folk like yourselves. What to do about the tower is a matter for duly elected officials to work out between themselves. It presents an opportunity for working together."

Other diplomacy checks if needed: 21, 12, 18

Cameron (David F) AC 23 (T 15, FF 19) CMD 18 HP 61 /61 Character Sheet  d20+7=15 ; d20+7=23 ; d20+2=3 ; d20+7=8 ; d20+7=26 ; d20+7=17 ;
Wednesday January 27th, 2016 12:51:41 AM
Cameron is overjoyed at the vermin he has been able to find, especially the scorpion, and sets about finding separate terrariums for each of them. He also investigates a stable food source for them. A source of crickets would be terrific.
He takes time each night to use the new water barrel to meditate on what he can do to help the town against the giants, but for now, the answers he hears from inside himself are simply to help them prepare and then help them defend. No giants have yet tested the town and thus have caused no grievances. As yet, Jancassis feels no need to become involved in this affair.
When the Hovel delegation comes calling he tries to set them at ease. He makes sure they are aware that he, like several of his companions are members of the WLA and will do their best to make sure no harm comes to the town.
Diplomacy 15 vs DC 21
Likewise when the delegation from Agnel Springs comes calling he helps to reassure them that he will do his best to keep the giants from causing a ruckus. His knowledge of famous local people is lacking, though and he fails to spot the reknowned druid for who he really is.
Diplomacy 23 vs DC 18
Knowledge Local 3 vs DC10

Other diplomacy rolls for reassuring the people during the week if needed are 8, 26, and 17

OOC
Leveling is done, I will try to decide on my catacombs purchases and get them done as well.


Murphy CMD 21 AC 19 HP 43/43 - (Kim). Evening rounds  d20+7=26 ;
Wednesday January 27th, 2016 8:37:15 AM

Inns
A Pleaser. Murphy is definitely a Pleaser, by the standards of the local pub afficionados. He considers the Belly Buster his home turf, but most of his friends choose the Dancing Pig, and he's not going to stay away from them just because of the territorial rivalry between the two establishments.

Trill
Murphy asks her about her trips to the tower, to find out if she was able to learn anything new.

He beams at her suggestion that the Star Mages be contacted. He knows they have a library in Plateau City that rivals any library in the Wold.

Pressi's concerns
"Press - I won't share a bed with any unless it is someone to whom I am wed, and that may be a while. You have nothing to fear from me in that regard, for I've no mind to defraud or to compromise the virtue or reputation of any of my friends. I've no problem with you staying with the folk at the inn. But, should you change your mind someday, there's a spot for you at the Sword's burrow."

He raises an eyebrow at Pressi's suggestion that she knows several ways to choke people with different body parts as they plan to meet with the people from Hovel.

Shel
As Shel casts blame back in the face of the Hovel group, Murphy covers his face with his hand. He loves his friend Shel. He wonders what she had for breakfast.

Cameron's Bugs and Barrel
Murphy takes an interest in the barrel that Cameron fashioned. He asks if he can try it for a few minutes. He declares it a capital idea. He also shares some pleasure in his new friend's entomological pursuits, and considers possible places for him to look. Crickets? During the late spring and into the summer there are plenty around, but they may be a little hard to find right now. There are lots of worms about, though, in this rich soil.

Kezzem
"Hey, make yourself useful. Help me with the wood sections for the soil frame here, Kezz. You ever do any gardening?" He explains some of the herbs, spices, and other plants - some medicinal, some for seasoning, some for alchemical usage. "So, while we're working, tell me a story, one that actually happened to you. You have some friends from when you were growing up? What's one of the favorite things you did with them?"

He also gets Quotiln to help out, passing on the same information about the goals of the side garden.

Bliss and Alleah
Murphy spends some time with them in WLA training. He joined pretty soon after becoming an adventurer. He invites the rest of the members of the group also to consider membership, if they want to.

He appreciates Alleah's interaction with the various community leaders, and her notion of asking the leaders to lead. Yet he also understands the leaders' desire to share counsel with Humble's Sword. They've been doing some things that have benefitted the Valley in various ways.

With the Mayor and Local Leaders (Diplomacy DC 10)
"Well, there is that list of things to consider doing I gave you, sir." Murphy meanwhile has written up a few copies of the list. "There are too many items for any one group to perform. One thing I did not mention in that list, though, was to send a qualified group up Northeast into the Scab. Such a group could go, and learn what they can about the reaction of the people in that area to news of the tower. Not that the group would tell them of its fall, but rather, to find if there is awareness of it up there, perhaps to gauge the strength and numbers of the biguns. It could ostensibly be a trading expedition," he suggests, knowing that may appeal to Broker Iangold Laughshield, "perhaps to look for certain resources found there that might be of value to us here in the valley. The group could take a fair quantity of local pipeweed, spices, nuts, high quality things that grow here for trade. Just an idea."

He reiterates the benefits of gathering what can been known from others - those who maintain the other three towers; knowledgeable wizards, sages, druids, clerics; the WLA.

Create incentives - rewards for folks who come up with and help implement defenses, as well as counter offenses.

He asks, "Has anyone yet visited the Wizards' tower? Perhaps a clue as to their whereabouts may be found there."

With the contingent from Hovel (Diplomacy DC 24)

"Did we cause the tower to fall? No. We came the first time without knowing who or what had caused the explosion. On our return, we tried to get there ahead of time - thought there still may have been a few days - but time wobbled. Again, We. Did. Not. Cause. The. Tower. To. Fall. The wizards who maintain the tower had no intention of causing harm to the tower. Yet it happened.

"Question is: What now? We know of the threat from the north, from the Scab. Here is a list of things we've been thinking of to develop a defense - and perhaps some offense, if needed." He gives them his list with a few additions, and asks if one of them can read it aloud. He also mentions the notion of an information-gathering expedition into the Scab.

"Can you talk to the keepers of the West Tower above Hovel? Find out their thoughts, get their recommendations. I think eventually we may want to try to rebuild the tower, renew the magic. But that could take years. What do we do in the meantime? How can Hovel help in defense of Crescent Valley?"

With the Baron, his generals, and Graff from Angel Springs (Diplomacy DC 11)

Murphy is lightly acquainted with the druid from some years ago, plus bits and pieces he has learned growing up and in recent years. His mother received some training from him in druidic practice, and his father's sister, Aunt Nilli, also has interacted with him from time to time. He even was a dinner guest once at the Leafwin-Pipewood burrow when Murphy was younger. "Thank you for coming, Elder Graff," he says to the venerable druid. He is a bit awed in his presence. Though his own family's druidic connections played a role in his choice to go that direction, Graff's stories, wisdom, and aura of power gave the towhead a solid push t.o commit to that life at a time when he was vacillating between adventuring professions.

He considers whether to take out the sealed note which confirmed their innocence in regard to the death of Sarabella Lovesong. If the Lord Mayor or his prosecutor, Morro Goodbarrel Oakleaf were here, he would do so, but sees no point to it now.

Instead he does bring out the list of items he previously gave to Mayor Bumbleluck, with a few more jotted down at the bottom - including the idea of an expedition into the Scab.

"Here are some things we've been considering, Lord Baron." He hands another copy to Graff. "Surely some of your contacts back in Angel Springs are knowledgeable about some of these things, and may be able to research in more detail especially concerning the towers."

The druid adds, "But no doubt you've had some similar ideas. I was thinking that one or more of the adventuring groups, or militia around Angel Springs may find it valuable to investigate things north of the two towers closer to you. I would be surprised if there were not some probes sent from the Scab. The explosion and effects would have been noted by those at the south end of the Scab, I reckon."

"Three towers still stand. After initial probes, if they decide to go with a penetrating assault, Humble's Ford would find itself on the receiving end of the head of the Scab's spear. If Angel Springs could provide us some militia, some soldiers and resources, that may allow us to build a shield strong enough to blunt their spear, and counter attack.

"Long term, perhaps we of the Valley can gather enough knowledge and understanding to replicate the fallen tower. But I doubt that day is near enough to forestall the wicked giants of the north from coming against us some time in the next few weeks or months."

One more thought occurs to Murphy. "I was speaking with a giant a while ago. He complained about how we with our towers had cut off the route that the giants from the Red Hills and their brothers in the Scab used to travel to meet with each other.

"In times past, there was regular, peaceful trade between the Valley and the Red Hills. What if a negotiated, safe passage were allowed between the Scab and the Red Hills? Now, I am not recommending that. There would be risks, and there would be giants that would try to step outside any agreements. Of course, they already can go around through the edge of the Culverwood, or aways around the east end of the Valley."

"What are your thoughts, what is your counsel, gentlemen? We look to your leadership."

Gearing up
Murphy goes to Pirnook Deeppocket's General Store, where there is a Catacombs outlet. He makes a few purchases.

[Diplomacy: For HF morale: 10. For Hovel contingent: 24. For Angel Springs: 11 - rolled in private post for DM]
[Knowledge, local 27 - knows druid Graff fairly well]

A contest: Who can come up with the best idea for preparing to defend against an attack by biguns. Awards / recognition for top ideas? Open to all.

Bliss (AC20, HP43) & Mookie (AC19, HP21) (Cayzle)  d20+2=22 ; d10=6 ; d3=3 ; d20+2=21 ;
Wednesday January 27th, 2016 10:09:07 AM
Bliss smiles at Alleah. "Miss, I can't give YOU orders! You're ever so much wiser than me!"

After returning from the Catacombs, he spins around, showing off his new hunter green pants, shirt, and shoes. "Didn't anyone notice my new duds! Pretty flashy, huh? And good for blending in to the background!"

And then Bliss goes to the visiting wizard to get his Reduce made Permanent. He invites Murphy along to ask magic questions. Like, can they maybe get the tower rebuilt? Who could create such a magic?

Reduced and in his new outfit, Bliss attracts some attention. He laughs and says he left his pot of gold at home, but maybe next time!

He tries to calm people down who seem worried. "Really, it will be okay. First of all, the giants hardly ever wander by anyway. And if they do, we'll send them packing.

Diplomacy check 22! Nat 20! [ignore the d10 and the d3 rolls ... misclicks.]

Bliss is oddly reassuring, maybe because he is so cheerful.

At the town meetings, Bliss elaborates on his message. "Look, we've defeated gorilla with four arms and lots of other monsters! We can make these giants go home. No worries! Or if we let them through, we'll make sure they act nice like."

Diplomacy 21 Bliss is on a roll!


Questions and Answers (DM Mark) 
Wednesday January 27th, 2016 10:49:41 AM
Work delays - DM post will be a bit late today.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 22, HP 56/56, CMD 20  d20=19 ; d20+5=24 ; d20+5=24 ; d20+13=33 ;
Wednesday January 27th, 2016 10:50:22 AM
Hovel:

"Hey, I wasn't even there the first time! But we tried to stop it, but it's kind of hard to stab an explosion unfortunately, you know?"

Diplomacy: 24

Angel Springs:

Knowledge (local): 19

"Hey there, it is Graff, right?" asks Kezzem. "Do you know Murph here? He does all kinds of druidy things too, like turning into lions, and tigers, and bears."

Diplomacy: 24

Murphy: "Hey, make yourself useful. Help me with the wood sections for the soil frame here, Kezz. You ever do any gardening?" He explains some of the herbs, spices, and other plants - some medicinal, some for seasoning, some for alchemical usage. "So, while we're working, tell me a story, one that actually happened to you. You have some friends from when you were growing up? What's one of the favorite things you did with them?"

"Gardening, that's like stabbin' plants, right?"

Kezzem then starts to tell a tale of how he single-handedly killed a girillian with such passion and zeal, Murphy is convinced that it's true despite actually being there and knowing that the rest of Humble's Sword helped out.
Bluff: 33 (natural 20)

"As to me family, ain't go much to say about growing up with them. They're...a weird bunch. Favorite thing I ever did with them was leave."

Cameron (David F) AC 23 (T 15, FF 19) CMD 18 HP 61 /61 Character Sheet 
Wednesday January 27th, 2016 1:01:27 PM
Privately, to the group Cameron will disclose some of his past dealings with the Scab, and giants in the Red Hills.
"Grandfather and Morgan both thought it a good idea for me to know the environment of the Scab. Toward that end they took me on a few trading expeditions, so I know a little about the Scab and the routes that the dwarves use. How much help that might be in recon I cannot say. I can say that at some point, maybe sooner rather than later, I would like to return home and ask Morgan a few questions. Since he is dead, I have just now gained the ability to ask those questions, and if I am not mistaken, I think I need a priest of Gargul , or Gargul's permission to do so. Is that right? Anyway, if there is an expedition to the Scab, I definitely want to go."
" In the Red Hills I have encounters some strange furry ogres named The Brothers. They seemed to hold some influence there and were devout worshipers of Jancassis. They were evil, of that I have no doubt, but they were also reasonable. A slicer beetle had taken one of the arms from one of them and then our group defeated the Beetle. The Brothers happened upon us just after. We were totally drained and would have been easy pickings, but since I spoke their language and worshiped their goddess they relented and instead were helpful. I healed some of their wounds and they granted us safe passage in the hills telling us to mention them should any other giants accost us. If a dialog were to be opened with the giants of the Red Hills, I would look for them."
Cameron is overjoyed by Murphy's interest in both his barrel and his insects. If the druid has any insight about how to milk the spiders and scorpion for venom, Cameron would be most happy to learn about it. He is not afraid of them poisoning him while he extracts their venom, only afriad of hurting them. He thanks him for the insights on food for the bugs and also asks if there are any groups of small centipedes nearby, as he would like them and their venom for his prayers. Of course Murphy is welcome to try out the barrel. Cameron has found it deeply relaxing.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 19, HP 53/53, CMD 22 
Wednesday January 27th, 2016 2:56:20 PM
OOC: A quick admission and apology. Pressi's attack rolls were somewhat elevated in the last module due to a faulty formula in my spreadsheet. The error has been corrected for this sheet.

Visions (DM Mark) 
Wednesday January 27th, 2016 5:48:07 PM
Trill goes to both taverns, and become somewhat snubbed as a “Pleaser.” She uses her diplomatic skills, and she asks about the Second Dinner Club - does anyone know where they are? Are there other mages that could help?

Pressi finds her time filled with dancing. In a couple days, Leska and her husband come to visit, excited to see her friend Pressi and Murphy as well. They’ve heard rumors that one of the Giant Towers has failed - people are worried. “How could this have happened?” Leska asks. Pressi tries to answer the concerns others have, and is able to ease the townsfolk a bit.

Shel tries to explain what happened to the folks from Hovel, and turns the blame on them. They remain unhappy with the situation.

Alleah address all three groups, trying to get them focused on the positive and the opportunity to work together.

Cameron like his new vermin, and it’s not hard to find food. But the locals still think he’s weird. If Jancasis is mentioned, they will steer clear of him. The pattern on the scorpion reminds him of Jancasis’ symbol. He keeps working with the new barrel, but the water is cold and the conditions are a bit cramped, making it hard to meditate. But once he can meditate there with these elements distracting him, it’s a particularly rewarding session. He also engages the visiting groups.

Murphy visits both pubs, and is also snubbed as a “Pleaser” - except by other pleasers. He talks to everyone in turn. He suggests that folks from Hovel venture into the Scab to see what they know and make contact. This is met with stares and glares - they don’t seem to be interested into sending such a mission. He shares his suggestions with each group of officials. He also says that there may be a way to work things out with the giants. The is met with much derision - “Giants don’t talk - they just take!”

Bliss shows off his new clothes and his tiny size. Bliss says that Humble’s Sword can handle the giants!
___________________________________________________________

The loss of the tower near Humble’s Ford is a big change, and if there’s anything halflings don’t like - it’s change.

As the week began, Humble’s Sword became Humble’s Heros. As the week goes by, talk turns from how many were saved in the tower’s collapse, to what this means for the future.

People are to be worried. There is talk of needing to fortify houses, to dig more and deeper burrows. There may be a need to raise taxes to train and pay a militia. By the end of the week, there are murmurs about the party being Humble’s Harbingers of Doom for the Crescent Valley. Humble’s Sword is not blamed for causing the tower to fall. But some wonder if they did enough to prevent it. Disagreements break out, but folks fall quiet when members of Humble’s Sword are around.
___________________________________________________________

Everyone’s words are helpful to all the groups (the diplomacy efforts seem to have helped.) Except for Shel, but she decideds Hovel just has a bad attitude.

The officials from Humble’s Ford remain fearful, but supportive of those they call Humble’s Heros.

Those from Hovel are indifferent to the heros. They appreciate all they did, but the fact remains that the tower is down and Humble’s Sword was associated with that. The party will also notice that there are a few from Hovel that seem to hold Humble’s Sword in a kind of fearful reverence - after all they foreknew the tower would fall! Perhaps they are connected with the Gods of the Wold! Who else could have had such divine insight!

The delegation from Angel Springs doesn’t blame the party, and they are grimly determined to address this issue head on. The Baron and his “generals” are not really military men, but are determined to defend the Crescent Valley and will work with the others to do so. They intend to consult with the elves near Angel Springs. Graff says he know some adventurers in the area he will contact as well.

It’s not clear if this preparation causes more comfort or fear in Humble’s Ford. Probably both. But folks generally look to Humble’s Sword for reassurance.

Through the week, visitors come through, and all want to talk about or visit the fallen tower. Constable Hornblower has posted a guard at the Second Dinner Club’s tower, and the door now has a big padlock on it. The Mayors of Hovel, Humble’s Ford and Angel Springs are all there now. Along with the Barron, they often meet and consult with certain visitors. Humble’s Sword is invited to most of these meetings.

Near the end of the week, a few halfling clerics representing Domi, Alemi, Pantheon and Gargul visit. They make it a point to contact this Mayor’s group, and require that Humble’s Sword be there as well. As they have sought guidance about what to do to protect the Valley, the have either cast divinations or been granted visions about the Second Dinner Club. They see visions of Veseley Vortence and Tiana Taithen of the Second Dinner Club in chains, being led or carried by orcs! They now believe they are being held in captivity in the Red Hills near Dour Lake far south of here, but they will say that it’s odd that they are not able to discern more. The location of the third mage, Bazeck Breezelee, is unknown. No visions have involved him.

The Mayors also meet with certain local traders travellers about this. All agree that the Red Hills are a very dangerous place for halflings. Bandits and orc patrols are encountered along the main roads. There is a halfling named Peremin Kalliwick in Hovel that is said to have travelled to Dour Lake before, and he may know more.

As they conclude that someone needs to go and rescue the Second Dinner Club, all eyes turn toward Humble’s Sword, Er, no, they meant Humble’s Heros!

Trill (AC: 22/17/22, HP: 53/54, CMD: 20, hasted, bull's strength) (Kent) 
Wednesday January 27th, 2016 6:49:57 PM
(OOC; Any info gleaned from the daily observations of the exploded tower and the surrounding area?)

Trill isn't really too concerned about eh snubbing at this point as she isn't a true resident of the Ford and may never be. There is still time to find where she is most comfortable and where the real folk are hanging out.

Trill never having been big on meetings manages to sit through most without killing anyone and even positively contributes here and there. The last meeting with all the priests and mayors talking about the missing wizards annoys her as it seems that they all just seem to think that we are going to do whatever they ask and become their fetch and carry crew. And she begins to smoulder inside a bit.

"So do I hear you asking to hire us to go and rescue these wizards of your from these orcs in the Scab?"

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 19, HP 53/53, CMD 22 
Wednesday January 27th, 2016 7:30:57 PM
"Is it bad that I prefer Humbles Heroes far less than Harbingers of Doom?" Pressi asks the group. "I'm seriously putting that on the door of my room."

For all the talk of how awful a militarized Humble's Ford is, Pressi kind of felt that some militarization was in fact a good thing. Some of the ideas, particularly a militia that presumably would stand even after the tower was rebuilt, didn't strike her as all that unreasonable. Still, she could see how it would be tough to rely on melee alone. Much as she hated to admit it, a visit to their magic castle (the arcane study home) might be in order.

Far less reasonable was the insistence that they could have saved the tower, despite a thorough explanation of why it took so long to get back to Humbles Ford and an even more thorough explanation of how time works. Pressi began to take a different tack of telling naysayers to go back in time since they are clearly so much better at it.

The stuff about how the group was less time traveler than far seers or in on the conspiracy? Pressi didn't think that was right, but there was always that doubt in the back of her mind. After all, she only had half the group's word that the time travel stuff was correct.

----------------------

Pressi is glad to see Leska and her husband again, and takes some time to catch them up on her travels and what has happened. She is, however, embarrassed to reveal that she may not be going back to Angel Springs for a long time.

Home. It was crazy how much she began to see Angel Springs like that. Things were still adjusting slowly here, and she still felt somewhat like a stationed traveler. Someone who had been ordered to move here, though she couldn't entirely say why or by whom.

Leska, seeing how Pressi looked at Murphy, could make a few guesses.

---------------------

Pressi is a woman of action, but she is first and foremost a woman of the hierarchy. A soldier, she has been trained to subsume her independent streak in the name of duty. So with the exception of the occasional grumble, she had made it to every meeting.

So it was with glee that she received her orders to prove her worth once again, until she heard it was once again into the Red Hills. Though she didn't spend a lot of time in the hills themselves, she had traveled past them several times - and in the last time, she had gotten sucked into the Culverwood.

"Ok, so where is this Peremin?" she asked.


Cameron (David F) AC 23 (T 15, FF 19) CMD 18 HP 61 /61 Character Sheet 
Wednesday January 27th, 2016 7:34:26 PM
Cameron appears concerned when the topic turns to prisoners in the Red Hills. He quietly gets a pencil and paper and starts drawing. When the clerics pause, he starts asking questions.
" I have been to the Red Hills, and you are right, it is inhospitable to people our size. In the Hills only the hardened can survive easily. While I was there, my friends and I ran afoul of several tribes of Goblins, wearing a symbol like this." Cameron shows the symbol he had been drawing. It represents and oval with three dots inside it. " Has this symbol been seen in any of your visions? What made it odd, was that on our way back home we ran into a group of Ogres also wearing the symbol. Someone or something was pulling the strings behind that. Ogres eat goblins, not fight on the same side as goblins. If this symbol has been seen in your visions, we may indeed be dealing with a formidable power.
Cameron makes no effort to hide either his holy symbol or his WLA pin when he speaks

Shel Gerald--AC 15/14/12--CMD 14--HP 39/39 
Wednesday January 27th, 2016 10:59:25 PM
Shel was happy to hear of the visions showing at least a couple of the mage's alive. Hopefully her kin folk would be alright as well. To be sure, obviously they had to rescue the other two so they could figure out if old Bazeck was alive. She was never very close to him, but he was family and she intended on saving the whole lot of them it possible.

She surprised herself that so soon after returning home, she was ready to go back out again. "Youve got your answer, Murphy. We have to go save them. And we need to do it now, I think."

Alleah -- RobC -- AC 19/13/17 -- CMD 13 -- HP 45/45 
Thursday January 28th, 2016 1:10:10 AM
"I wonder if there will be a real reward. Not one of those 'a good deed is its own reward' deals" Alleah looks down and sees the WLA badge pinned to her jersey and feels its weight. "I guess being a hero is going to be hard work"

She listens intently to Cameron's experiences in the Red Hills. It sounds like he has had quite a life.

Murphy CMD 21 AC 19 HP 43/43 - (Kim). Evening rounds 
Thursday January 28th, 2016 3:11:09 AM

Brother and Sister
Murphy is very glad to see that his brother Nalfein and sister Leska Rose have come to the Ford. He quickly brings them up to speed after hugs and greetings. He is glad for Pressi's sake that they have come, for they - especially Leska - have a touchpoint with her.

Big Meeting

"Bazeck Breezelee was slain by the Huntsman in Koshe Marr," Murphy says. "Though Veseley Vortence and Tiana Taithen had hold of his body at the time of the teleport, it surprises me not in the least that you've not been able to make contact with him. Perhaps you can add your prayers to mine, that some day his poor and worthy soul may be released from the grasp of Marteus the Hideous."

With a measure of cheer, however, he receives the news that the other two members of the Second Dinner Club are alive, and it is known approximately where they are. "Yes, Shel. I concur." He turns clerics and others, then to his own companions. "Let's go by way of Windhorn Hamlet, then south to Dourscale. From there we can travel into the Red Hills by the lake. The Teucri build part of the roads along that way, and our travel can be much hastened compared to a slog through the oppressive heat and other challenges of the Hills." He pauses, and looks back to the Mayors, and adds, "Unless Peremin Kalliwick thinks that a slog through the Red Hills is a faster way to get there."

He addresses the official in charge of Angel Springs. "Mayor Hairfoot, some months back, you indicated you suspected some plots were afoot to bring down the giant towers. Now, I honestly believe the three wizards had no intention of doing so. Yet, I wonder if there may have been someone who put it in their mind to conduct the experiment which, as far as we can discern, led to that result.

"Oh, by the way," he adds, and reaches through the opening in the side of his coveralls to find a little patch near the small of his back. He pulls out a small envelope, still sealed with wax, though parts of the wax have crumbled. "I don't think we'll be needing this any longer, and we thank you for your consideration in providing it during a time of need." He holds the weathered envelope out with both hands in presenting it to His Honor. The mayor likely recalls it to be a statement of innocence on the part of the Humble's Sword regarding the assassination of Sarabella Lovesong. He appreciates the shrewd mind of this halfling.

Concerning Cameron's discussion, Murphy comments, "We found a measure of collusion between ogres and goblins in the Hills some months ago. Also some orcs, humans, and renegade halflings."

Getting back to the rescue at hand, the druid says, "Those two are among our best hope if the tower, or some semblance of it, is to be built again." He scratches the back of his neck. "Good clerics, provide us what additional detail you can. We can be ready to leave early in the morning." Then, he realizes he is not the only one to decide. He asks the other members of the Sword. "Can't we?"

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 22, HP 56/56, CMD 20  d20+4=16 ;
Thursday January 28th, 2016 11:33:20 AM
Knowledge (local): 16
Does Kezzem know anything else about the Red Hills?

----

"Collusion between ogres, goblins, orcs, humans, and even halflings? That does not sound good. Not exactly the most orderly bunch. Someone must be holding it all together."

Murphy CMD 21 AC 19 HP 43/43 - (Kim). Evening rounds 
Thursday January 28th, 2016 1:56:01 PM

"Well, Idafeatu, an ogre mage, and, to perhaps a lesser extent, his brother and rival, Noyudint, are known to have been behind at least some of the organization. They perished at our hands. But obviously, there are others involved as well," Murphy responds to Kezzem.

Bliss (AC20, HP43) & Mookie (AC19, HP21) (Cayzle) 
Thursday January 28th, 2016 2:02:14 PM

Bliss says that heading to rescue the mages seems like a good idea to me. "I can sneak in and rescue them," he says.

Mookie is not so sure about taking the long way around. "What if they end up dead before we get there?"

Bliss chimes in, "I don't want to be late again! Last time we were late the tower fell down. Isn't there a faster route? Heroes take risks to save people, right Miss Alleah?"

"We should travel," says Mookie with a wink, "as the crow flies."

Murphy CMD 21 AC 19 HP 43/43 - (Kim). Evening rounds 
Thursday January 28th, 2016 3:29:40 PM

"Well, I can fly, Mookie can fly. I can't carry ponies, though, nor a wagon or carriage, though I could manage to carry a few halflings, or several if they were reduced.

"The Teucri roads, though, are magicked. When on their highways, they say you travel two, three times as fast as on a normal road. I don't know - maybe even faster. Do some of you more well traveled," he asks, addressing the dignitaries and clerics, et al, "know what typical travel speeds on Teucri highways are compared to normal roads?"

Another thought occurs to him. "Say, being captured, our wizardly friends may be out of spell components. Should we pick up some that will help them to be to cast once we find them?

"Also, your Honor," he now addresses Mayor Bumbleluck," one of us may have means of contacting them via dreams, if we have something that belonged to them personally. Our good Alleah, here, might be able to do that. With an escort, would you permit two of us - Alleah and Shel, say - to enter the Wizard's Tower? They have a housekeeper, I believe. If one or two items that one or both have used, handled, touched, over a period of time, could be taken with us. It could be as simple as a comb - perhaps with a stray hair or the like, or a hand mirror, or a favorite book, or drinking vessel. If she has a touchpoint familiar to the person, that may allow Alleah to reach out, and learn something, and communicate that help is on the way, and gain intelligence to improve our chances of rescuing them."

So, are you offering any reward? (DM Mark) 
Thursday January 28th, 2016 5:28:34 PM
Trill listens to all this, and asks if there is any reward for rescuing the Second Dinner Club.

Pressi is not pleased with any implications they could have done more. She’s pleased to meet with Murphy’s siblings, Leska and Nalfein, and even more pleased that this involved Murphy. She asks where this Peremin is. She is told he lives to the southwest of Hovel, on the outskirts of town.

Cameron asks about a particular symbol worn by Ogres and Goblins. None here are aware of the symbol he describes. While he will notice some mild looks of disapproval at his holy symbol, no one mentions it.

Shel is glad that a couple of the Second Dinner Club survived, and is resolved to find them.

Alleah also hopes there will be a reward, and wonders what it means to be a member of the WLA.

Kezzem knows a bit about the Red Hills. See below.

Bliss is ready to get going.

Murphy tells them what he knows of what happened to the Second Dinner Club,and wonders if someone pushed them into their experiments that collapsed the tower. He suggests a route to Dour Lake via magical roads (does Murphy have a map? How does he know all this?) He also asks for access to the Second Dinner Club’s Tower since he know bloodwitch abilities and what is required.
___________________________________________________________

Kezzem and (anyone with a Knowledge Local DC 15) Highlight to display spoiler: {They are named for the color of the soil which is rich and dark red. This region is known as being chaotic and a bit primitive, inhabited by an odd mix of humans, halfings, and demihumans. In addition, many Hill and Fire Giants along with ogres and trolls have their homes in the Red Hills. As dangerous as the area can be, a careful route can avoid much trouble there. Oddly enough, the roads tend to be more dangerous simply due to the traders on the roads attracting bandits and such.}

As the week progressed, there was no change to the tower that fell. Any detect magics cast in the area reveal no spells or effects - none. There should be residual magic detected here for a very long time. Alleah and Bliss can tell that the ley lines at the tower still run strong, but somehow all magic was drained from the tower.

There is much discussion between the Baron and the Mayors.

The Mayor of Humble’s Ford addresses Murphy’s request for access to the Second Dinner Club tower. ”By all means. I will have Constable Hornblower escort you in if you wish.”

As to the suggestion to travel to the Windhorn Hamlet via magical Teucri Roads, the Baron will say to Murphy, ”Well sir, you are very well travelled indeed. While I’ve heard of the Windhorn Hamlet, I’ve never travelled there, nor been on these magical roads. When were you there? May I see your maps? We do get traders in from down there from time to time in Angel Springs, and there has been trouble on those roads. You seem to know the area well and how to get there. Perhaps visiting this...” turns to the Mayor of Hovel, “What was his name? Ah yes, Peremin Kalliwick. Perhaps there’s no need for you to visit him. While I’m told he’s been to Dour Lake and has traded in the Red Hills, he may not know the ways like you do. ”

As to a reward, there is some discussion and disagreement among the Baron and the Mayors. The Baron will say, “We are a bit disappointed in the question, as I thought this group was loyal to the area. Some of you even wear the symbols of the Woldian League of Adventurers, and they have been very helpful to us in the past. Nonetheless, I understand the ways of mercenaries as we have dealt with them from time to time in Angel Springs. While we had hoped to pour our resources into the defense of the Crescent Valley, all signs point to the return of the Second Dinner Club as part of that defense.”

“What reward do you ask to rescue the mages that our priests and seers have seen?”

Murphy CMD 21 AC 19 HP 43/43 - (Kim). Rescue talk 
Thursday January 28th, 2016 6:44:47 PM

"So, Alleah, Shel - you two want to go with Constable Hornblower here, and maybe talk with the caretaker, and pick out a few items for your - that thing that you do, Alleah? And, thank you, your Honor!"

=========
"Well, my brother, Kendry, has done a lot of travel," Murphy answers. "He showed me a bunch of his maps, but I don't have any, except for the Red Hills. He talked about the Teucri roads. He said that there are sections that have been damaged and you only travel at normal speeds there, but the good parts, you zip along pretty fast. I just don't know how fast. I haven't been on them myself. Kendry has been a lot of places, and knows lots of people. I've heard that the Teucri did other things pretty marvelous, too."

"Reward? For me? Just information to help us on our way. Any little details that you godly folk may have discerned you think would be good for us to know, to make the rescue - or at least the location of the rescue - a more attainable matter.

"I agree that this is in the best interest of the valley - and, besides, our captive friends helped our community for a long time, and are a key to helping our valley do well during this time."

"If we go by road, then we'll take a wagon, or maybe a cart. If through the Red Hills, then durable riding and pack ponies. Between us, we need maybe two or three more. But we can cover those."

With a wry smile, he adds, "Now, if you have any flying horses to spare, well, I'll bet we could make good use of 'em!"

Murphy CMD 21 AC 19 HP 43/43 - (Kim). Rescue talk 
Thursday January 28th, 2016 8:03:37 PM

"Oh, and let's talk with Peremin Kalliwick. If he knows the Red Hills, and Dour Lake - I think we'll need his help. Which way is the best way to go I really do not know for certain. We may discuss it with him."

Cameron (David F) AC 23 (T 15, FF 19) CMD 18 HP 61 /61 Character Sheet 
Thursday January 28th, 2016 8:39:02 PM
"I can be ready to leave by morning, We probably shouldn't delay. I will ask the Lady for divinations as well, to see if we can find a spot where they are being taken to."
Cameron doesn't think the roads are such a hot idea. Direct travel, quietly, would work better. Bandits watch roads for goodness sake, because goods travel on....roads. Cameron had been a mercenary long enough to know that. If the group is dead set on following the roads though he will. He will be sleeping in a hidden spot though.

Bliss (AC20, HP43) & Mookie (AC19, HP21) (Cayzle) 
Thursday January 28th, 2016 8:39:48 PM

Mookie perks up at the talk of a reward.

Bliss says to the officials, "Well, we're heroes, right, so we probably shouldn't have to worry about regular old gear like crossbow clips and food and a place to sleep and stuff. How about, for a reward, you guys take care of all that for us, so we can focus on the heroing business? You know, new clothes when the old ones get all slashed and burnt, nice comfy bed, pie on Fridays, maybe a medal every once in a while if we do something special."

Bliss grins. "I used to be a mercenary once, and Cam too, back in the day when I was little. I like being a hero better. I figure whatever bad guys we come up against, usually they got stuff they use in being bad, so we take it away from them and tell them to be good from here on out. And that gets us better gear to be heroes with, right?"

"Besides, odds are you people in the village ain't got enough actual powerful magic to make it worth our while without bankrupting the folks hereabout. I just spent 12 THOUSAND gold pieces, for Lem's sake!" Bliss looks a little more than somewhat amazed at the thought of that much gold! "So wowsy! You all ain't got 12,000 gold to give to each of us!"

"Don't say 'ain't' Kid!" says Mookie. He cocks his head and looks at Bliss with a thoughtful eye. "Meh, you're growing up, little man. Rewards are nice, but not if it breaks the local bank." He looks around. "Yeah, keep the worms flowing, and we'll be fine, right, Kid?"

Bliss makes a face at the thought of eating worms, but then says, "Right!"

Trill (AC: 22/17/22, HP: 53/54, CMD: 20, hasted, bull's strength) (Kent)  d20+6=10 ; d20+11=24 ;
Thursday January 28th, 2016 8:55:45 PM
Diplomacy DC 10, Know local DC 24

Let me rephrase the question. You are talking about all of us going into the Red Hills to search for people some of us don't know, in an area that is full of giants Ogres, trolls and other demi humans of generally bad temperament and attitude. Apparently it is more than you want to do yourselves and I doubt that you will find many others in the area qualified or willing to go for you, let alone put our lives on the line and possibly be killed or maimed for life and you wonder why some of us more mercenary types might want to get something out of it. I mean it sounds like you want us to use our weapons and magic and other sundries, that we paid good money for to do you an enormous favor. Are you planning to use all your personal wealth to rebuild the tower and additional defenses, or are you planning to use taxes and other people's money and hard work to do it? Don't answer, we all know the answer to that.

Anyway, In all honesty I was hoping for you to at least be willing to provide us with mounts and pack mules, food and water supplies for the trip so we don't have to waste time hunting and perhaps some form of healing for those who might get injured while pursuing this endeavor that you are begging us to go on for YOU. Otherwise if we have to walk it may take a wee bit longer than you might be hoping for.

Shel Gerald--AC 15/14/12--CMD 14--HP 39/39 
Thursday January 28th, 2016 10:00:49 PM
Shel nods at the suggestion to enter the tower. "I'd like to go see what's left in there. There might even be something there from Uncle Breezelee himself. And I'd think Alleah would know exactly what she needed to cast her spell. Mr. Hornblower, if you'd escort us in, that would be great. We could do a quick search and still be on our way in the morning."

OOC: I've forgotten how change the header for my posts on my mobile devices. When I post from a phone or iPad, my header is incorrect. Anyone remind me how to do that? Pretty sure someone did that for me last level. Thanks.

Alleah -- RobC -- AC 19/13/17 -- CMD 13 -- HP 45/45 
Thursday January 28th, 2016 10:20:44 PM
Highlight to display spoiler: {Alleah only *thought* about a reward. She never asked aloud for one}

Alleah sighs. She desparately wants to ask for some sort of payment, but that's not what a hero would probably do.

"Bliss' suggestions are all fine by me" she responds to the talk of a reward.

She is interested in examining the remains of the Second Dinner Club tower. Perhaps there are clues that might help lead to the Club members themselves?

She nods to Shel "Agreed. Tomorrow morning would be a good time to leave. For today, let us see what we can unearth at the Tower"

Information Source? (DM Mark) 
Friday January 29th, 2016 12:40:09 AM
OOC: Kim - you may have missed my email on this.

Please identify what your actual sources of information are for knowledge of Windhorn Hamlet and the function and condition of Teucri Roads. I need to know specifically where in the game record you have encountered this information. If there is no record of this, please refrain from using information from the Woldipedia that your character has not encountered.


Murphy CMD 21 AC 19 HP 43/43 - (Kim). Rescue talk 
Friday January 29th, 2016 2:02:29 AM
DM Mark - It's established earlier in the early days of this game that Murphy has read his brother's books about the doings of the earlier Crescent Valley adventuring group. Some other members of the party have read that, too, though I think most of them are not active in this game now. One of the Crescent Valley adventures dealt with travel along - and the need to repair some unexpected damage to - a portion of the Teucri road. Murphy did not pull it out of his hat.

There are twelve mentions of it in the Crescent Valley Archives.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 19, HP 53/53, CMD 22 
Friday January 29th, 2016 10:45:02 AM
DM Mark - I haven't posted this, but he can also get some information from Pressi. Her backstory is that she has shuttled between Angel Springs and towns around the Red Hills like Dirt City and Plateau City. In fact, she and Kezzem started the game entering the Culverwood from the Red Hills.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 19, HP 53/53, CMD 22  d20+5=11 ; d20+6=7 ; d20+5=12 ;
Friday January 29th, 2016 11:14:08 AM
Pressi took some time to think about her travels through the Red Hills, but again came up short. She flipped through her bag to see if she had any notes from her travels but didn't find any so far.

She also thought back to Murphy's statements about taking advantage. At the time, she had stressed to Murphy that it was more an independence and keeping things somewhat on track than about any worries about taking advantage - that she was more worried about him seeing her room than seeing her. At the time, she had kept her dating history rather private. Did he expect her to be a virgin too?

Focusing back on the present, Pressi realized that some people expected a reward. For all her Waardian past of scrounging, she realized it hadn't even crossed her mind until the townsfolk took the question seriously. She was a Monk of Domi, a soldier in an army that didn't expect much beyond the glory of combat. (Though of course she did expect her commanders to provide them with some tools.)

"Well, as a reward, I did have a few things in mind," Pressi began as she unspooled an entire scroll of paper. Bluff Nat 1. Highlight to display spoiler: { The piece of paper is completely blank. Pressi pretended to read from the scroll as she recited increasingly more outrageous demands off the top of her head. }

"Seriously, though. I think we are all in agreement that we need not just resources to make sure the job is done but some signs that you take this group with some measure of respect after all the whispers and fights. Because you make a big deal of how you expected us to be more than mere mercenaries but you haven't always treated us as more than mere mercenaries.

"So here's what I want as my reward. I want a say in personnel decisions as you build this army. You can start by firing all those people who keep whining about how we caused this or how we could have stopped this, and promoting anyone who can explain what they would have done differently or where we went wrong. Those people who were caught cheating during the games way back when? I want them hired too. Oh, and there's this guy we met named Hevin Longroot? We need someone who can procure supplies for us. Basically, people who are smart, creative and forward thinking, or am I being unreasonable? (Diplomacy 12)"

Information Source? (DM Mark) 
Friday January 29th, 2016 11:15:00 AM
Use of a prior PCs knowledge is outside my comfort zone as a DM. Even character background has limitations. Fortunately, the game provides a vehicle to address this. This is why the game has a Knowledge skill, and provides a system for Knowledge checks. Knowledge Local, History, Geography, Arcana, etc. In some cases, a few might apply.

I'll give this some thought. I'll send an e-mail on this proposing an approach using the Pathfinder rules in a few days.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 22, HP 56/56, CMD 20 
Friday January 29th, 2016 12:01:44 PM
"Any idea where we can find these mages, or are we just going to wander around shouting 'here, mages mages.' Not the best plan when roaming through hills filled with orcs, goblins, and giants."

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