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The New Powers of the Sargrass

...and breathe - DM Carl
Wednesday June 27th, 2018 10:50:08 AM
The tearing sound increases, and in the center of this massive battlefield the Sarr splits apart as three figures, each more than 100' tall, emerge. One quickly transforms into a massive treant, one into the mother of all sarg moths, and the last rapidly changes into one bestial shape after another.

Enough similarity remains to determine they are the three figures who petitioned you to take a side before this battle started.

They speak together in unison. Each of the Powers says a different word when there is a choice in brackets.

“WE ARE THE SARR {REBORN/BORN/EVOLVED}! WE THANK YOU, HEROES OF THE WOLD, FOR YOUR PART IN BRINGING THE PLAINS BACK TO THE WOLD!”

“WE ARE GRATEFUL FOR YOUR ROLE IN {ENDING/TAMING/CURING} THE [THREAT/CHALLENGE/DANGER] OF THE BLOODGRASS.”

“WE HAVE {CONCEDED/AGREED/VOWED} THAT WE MUST NOT WAR AMONG OURSELVES, FOR THAT WOULD DESTROY OUR HOME FOREVER.”

Across the battlefield, remaining bloodweed touched enemies shudder and collapse into blades of grass. The line has been held.

***

Congratulations, all. I'm awarding 20,000 XP for surviving the crossover module. That should put you folks at 11th level. If not, bump yourselves up to 155,000 XP. I'm also awarding a hero point in addition to the one gained when leveling up.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, HP 115/119, Str Damage 1, CMD 24; Rumpus - AC 26, HP 38/62, CMD 24, DR 5/evil, Resist acid 5, cold 5, electricity 5 d10=6 ; d4=3 ;
Wednesday June 27th, 2018 12:53:30 PM
Kezzem Hit Points: 6

Kezzem uses his last spell to restore some more of his strength damage.
Lesser Restoration: 1d4 = 3

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 49/102 AC 27 Touch 18 CMD 29 Hero Points 3
Wednesday June 27th, 2018 5:05:50 PM
LEVEL 11!!!! Hobie can cast FIREBALL!!!! (or probably more often, Haste and Fly)

Bliss (AC23, CMD28, HP78of86) (Cayzle)
Wednesday June 27th, 2018 7:50:15 PM

[OOC: Thanks Carl for a great fight! Main sheet updated]

Bliss listens and watches in wonder. Are these really the same three figures who were talking with them back in Humbles Ford? Wowsy! He feels proud.

"We are heroes!" he says to his friends after the new gods or whatever they are stop shouting. "We did it! Hooray! And they decided to give peace a chance, just like I told them! I'm wiser than I look, turns out!"

Then he glances over at the dead dragon. Did it also turn to grass? Bliss had been thinking that a dragonhide armor or maybe a buckler would have been nifty.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 21 (26), HP 83 (79/93), CMD 20; crone, lore, Harper-AC 21 (26), HP 61 (61/61), CMD 23, shaken; Followers
Wednesday June 27th, 2018 8:55:22 PM
Level 11! Pressi can hit someone twice! On those occasions where she's allowed to hit.

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC 26/ CMD 26 - HP 91/91, Miss Piggy AC 27 / CMD 23 - HP 87/87
Wednesday June 27th, 2018 9:40:37 PM
“I’m glad that’s over!” Succotash says with a sigh of relief. He then looks over at Miss Piggy, and notices there is something different about her, he can’t put his finger on it, but she somehow gives off a celestial vibe. (11th level paladin mounts gain the celestial template) “ Wow Piggy, you’re looking even more impressive than normal!”

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 10a large air elemental w/huge stats (Kim) AC 31/33vsEvil HP 43/80 3d8+11=31 ;
Thursday June 28th, 2018 2:08:59 AM

After helping Hobie a bit, Murphy walks over to Rumpus. "You are such a good pony. So brave. Here, let me help you a bit."

As he casts cure serious wounds (3d8+...11!), Kezzem's pony is restored to full health (38+31= more than enough). "That's some mount you've got there, Kez. In there kickin' big time!

And then the proclamations come. In his few moments in the presence of Gargul, and Gimp the Imp, Murphy finally understands that the huge power at the center of all this was the spirit of Sarr himself. Itself?

"What a resolution!" he exclaims. He runs over to Pressi and gives her a big kiss. He runs to each of his other friends, and shakes hands, claps them on their shoulder, and, filled with joy that overruns into his physical energy, rejoices and exults. He then holds up a finger. "One thing I must do."

He again transforms into a pretty large air elemental, and shoots up into the air - not directly above the SARR - but up to say, shoulder level - and he begins swiftly to circle about the power, and says in a booming voice,

"PRAISE UNTO THE HEAVENS ABOVE!
PRAISE UNTO THE HEROES ENCIRCLING THESE FIELDS.
PRAISE UNTO THE FACTIONS OF THE SARR WHO HAVE SWORN TO RECONCILE!
PRAISE AND GLORY TO MA'AB WHO PRESERVED,
TO THE GODS AND POWERS WHO WATCHED OVER US ALL!
LET ALL THE WOLD R-E-J-O-I-C-E!
REJOICE - REJOICE - REJOICE!!!

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC 26/ CMD 26 - HP 100/100, Miss Piggy AC 27 / CMD 23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electricity r d20=6 ;
Thursday June 28th, 2018 6:09:00 AM
Succotash offers up a brief prayer to Pantheon, then notices Murphy going crazy with elation, he then sheathes Twinklesting, gathers up his throwing axes, and pulls out his drum, saying, "Hobie time to bust out your lute, let's celebrate with some music!" (performance 6+6)

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC 26/ CMD 26 - HP 100/100, Miss Piggy AC 27 / CMD 23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electricity r
Thursday June 28th, 2018 6:10:26 AM
fixed header

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 49/102 AC 27 Touch 18 CMD 29 Hero Points 3 d20+6=22 ;
Thursday June 28th, 2018 9:19:26 AM
At Succotash's suggestion, Hobie will for the first time in what feels like weeks, put Prowler in his efficient quiver, and reach into his handy haversack.

Seeing Murphy and Miss Piggy come back from what looked like sure death, Hobie smiles wide and pulls out a bottle of fine wine and a jar of honey that he had been saving. "Anybody have any bread?"

He passes the food to a friend and pulls out his lute, laughing and smiling, and plays what feels like a happy song.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lCPLqjcq3cg

Perform(Lute)= 22

Bliss (AC23, CMD28, HP78of86) (Cayzle) d20+2=3 ;
Thursday June 28th, 2018 10:14:57 AM

Bliss claps his hands when Hobie starts playing and tries to dance along. But he's not as good at dancing as he used to be ... rolls a nat 1, falls down, and laughs.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 21 (26), HP 83 (79/93), CMD 20; crone, lore, Harper-AC 21 (26), HP 61 (61/61), CMD 23, shaken; Followers d20+5=19 ;
Thursday June 28th, 2018 10:51:55 AM
(It'll take a little time to finish up my sheet - I am thinking of squeezing in a metamagic into my plan.)

Pressi is so happy at the success that she can't even be surly as Bliss takes some of her "I told them so" thunder. She kisses Murphy back hard and even tries to keep the teasing to a minimum. (We have GOT to stop meeting like this.)

Out comes some bread (from her breadbox) and other provisions. Out comes some of her own enjoyment of the music (Perform Dance 19). Out comes some comforting of her cat, though she will have to find someone who can cast restoration later. (It never ceases to amaze her how many gaps the witch spell list has.) She considers talking to her own deity, but the lady could use the break.

Time for our heroes to get some rest. - DM Carl
Thursday June 28th, 2018 11:11:04 AM
A small celebration breaks out after the fight with songs and poetry. It's a very halfling response to winning the day.

Bliss frowns as he notices the monster corpses turning to grass, but the dragon corpse doesn't. Maybe because he was infected, but had not succumbed. In any case, there is some beautiful dark violet dragonhide to be had. There's also a perfectly good head Succotash cut off that would look pretty boss mounted above a fireplace.

As Hobie and Succotash finish their song, a slow clap can be heard behind you. Turning, you all find a small imp that most of you recognize as Gimp, irreverent right hand of Gargul. "Great job guys and gal. You gave the gods all the time they needed to cleans the Sarr and anchor the Plains back where they belong. The Woldsblood has been cleansed and returned where it belongs, and now life can return here."

He hops down and looks back at the Plains. "You've made history, folks, and you have the gratitude of the gods." He turns to face you again. "Anyway, I've been asked to send everyone home. You've done more than enough and deserve a good rest." He takes a pair of scissors from...somewhere. He takes them and cuts a hole in the air from bottom to top. A glowing blue portal opens behind them as he cuts. "This will remain open for about 10 minutes, just in case you want to take some time to gaze or whatnot. Just be sure not to miss your bus. Now if you'll excuse me, lots more heroes to send home." He takes a bow and flies off.

Bliss (AC23, CMD28, HP78of86) (Cayzle) d20=7 ;
Thursday June 28th, 2018 11:39:15 AM

Bliss shouts to Murphy, "Hey Mister Murphy! Get down here! We got work to do and only nine minutes to do it in!"

"Come on everybody, we got a dragon to butcher!

Bliss casts Alter Self (human) on himself for the strength boost and the leverage of longer arms. He gets to work. However, he's never butchered a dragon, or anything else for that matter, so he Aids Another and uses his bloodwitch Guide ability as he tries to help anyone else who has a modicum of expertise skinning a kill.

Well, Bliss's Aid Another roll is for crap, but with the Guide he still grants a +2 to some one else's check!

"I have GOT to get me some Survival skills," he mutters.

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 49/102 AC 27 Touch 18 CMD 29 Hero Points 3 d20+12=23 ;
Thursday June 28th, 2018 12:12:15 PM
Hobie is also quite interested in the idea of some dragonhide armor, or at least reskinning his quiver with dragonhide to have a token for remembering the first dragon he fought.

Hobie thinks hard about what he knows from studying dragon anatomy and tries to remember exactly what places the cuts should be made to ensure a clean skinning (Knowledge Arcana 23).

He will also take Tink's silver dagger and go to the dragon's head "Guys, what do you think, are we gonna take this back and hang it up in the headquarters we were building? If not, I'd like to at least cut out a tooth for each of us, as a token"

If the group wants to take the whole head Hobie will help, otherwise he will cut out one tooth for each member of Humble's Sword, and he'll take an extra, which he plans to use as a gift.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, HP 115/119, Str Damage 1, CMD 24; Rumpus - AC 26, HP 38/62, CMD 24, DR 5/evil, Resist acid 5, cold 5, electricity 5
Thursday June 28th, 2018 12:19:42 PM
"Rumpus is looking a bit sparklier too," says Kezzem. "Did I ever mention I once met a dwarf barbarian? He had a pony named Sparkles. Died her hair pink and everything. Strange fellow."

"Should I blow through my wand now, or should I save it and just rest naturally. Tomorrow I can pray for more healing spells and lay on hands and stuff if we are not going to be fighting more dragons."

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26/ CMD26 - HP 100/100, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electricity 5
Thursday June 28th, 2018 1:17:57 PM
Succotash thinks about things for a moment or two, and then asks, “ Am I a member of Humble’s Sword now?” “I mean, for the first time in a very long time, I feel like I belong to something bigger than myself, and to be honest, I really like it”. If you’ll have me, and my opinion means anything, hanging the head at our headquarters, we have a headquarters? Would be sweet!”

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 10a large air elemental w/huge stats (Kim) AC 31/33vsEvil HP 43/80 d20+16=21 ; d20+25=41 ;
Thursday June 28th, 2018 2:57:18 PM
Earlier
"Yes, Press, we've got to think of at least eleventy-three different ways we can meet. Don't want to get boring, right?" he answers her with a wink.

Later
Seeing Gimp show up, Murphy quickly descends - and appreciates Bliss's beckoning, as well. He unwildshapes back to his normal halfling self. "Thank you, Master Gimp, for your fine hospitality, and the cigar. How you found tobacco from my Uncle Orbi's fields, I can only guess at! Apologies to Lord Gargul - his look at me as my love pulled me back was somewhat disconcerting. Praise to him for those he is caring for."

And now
Murphy pulls out a few blades (a masterwork dagger, a normal dagger, and a sickle) - and wildshapes into a large earth elemental with huge side benefits. He attends to skinning as well as he is able (Survival: 21), getting some of the plates off, and some of the fine skin, as much as he is able in nine of the ten minutes available, working with Bliss, Hobie and whoever else is willing to pitch in. The last minute he uses to ensure that all the bits they want to take, and the people and animal friends, make it through in time. He might be able to handle the dragon head himself. The tail end of the tail, and at least one of the claws might be handy to take along too.

Onward
"We have a new plot of land just outside of Humble's Ford that the townsfolk and authorities gave to us. It's pretty good sized, and I'm certain we could have a suitable building as a place of honor for our defeated foe within," he tells Succotash.

He turns to the others, "Well, friends, what do you think? Is the good paladin, Succotash Slenderstick, along with his heavenly hog, Miss Piggy, to be considered a member of Humble's Sword? What do you say? Lord Kezzem - is there room for another paladin in our group? Bliss? Pressi? Hobie?" He will listen to what they say. After all are heard, he says, "Well, I say yes, too, to Lord Succotash. Let's make it formal once we get back to Humble's Ford, shall we?"

He wonders whether the Gimp-drawn window will take them back to the battlefield where the bloodgrass-touched crystal sphere had landed (in which case, currently in earth elemental form, he will mine the gems to be found in the carcass of the purple worm they defeated), or back home in the Ford. If to the latter, he will look around to see if the encircling 10' high stony wall still is there - and then to greet any who may be in their vicinity.
=======
Perception: 41

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26/ CMD26 - HP 100/100, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electricity 5 d20=11 ; d20=4 ;
Thursday June 28th, 2018 8:30:24 PM
Succotash tries to offer aid with skinning the dragon rolled an 11-1=10 on survival. “Ok know what you mean Bliss, you would think someone who spent most his life wondering the Wold solo, fighting evil when ever I came upon it, would be better at things like this”.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, HP 115/119, Str Damage 1, CMD 24; Rumpus - AC 26, HP 38/62, CMD 24, DR 5/evil, Resist acid 5, cold 5, electricity 5
Thursday June 28th, 2018 11:51:25 PM
"Don't worry, Murph, as a paladin of Gargul, I can assure you any dirty looks he gave you is because if you die one more time, you get a free sub in the afterlife."

"Oh, the pig can stay," says Kezzem. "And her companion, too, I guess."

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 49/102 AC 27 Touch 18 CMD 29 Hero Points 3
Friday June 29th, 2018 5:15:39 AM
"If this means I'm no longer the new guy, then I'm glad to have you as an official member, Succotash!

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 21 (26), HP 83 (79/93), CMD 20; crone, lore, Harper-AC 21 (26), HP 61 (61/61), CMD 23, shaken; Followers d20+4=9 ;
Friday June 29th, 2018 10:24:44 AM
(Originally, I was going to make a joke about how Murphy survived the last big battle with Garron, and the world was about to end. But then I checked the archives. Murphy did not survive the last big battle.)

Pressi grinned and shook her head. "Honestly, I sometimes think 'We take prior loner guys who show up' should be our motto. Then I remember that we are all halflings, so said motto would just be redundant.

"Also, people have to stop sweating their low survival skills. For example, you might wonder why my survival is so low for a solo gal who lived on the street until you remember... I lived on the street. I spent a lot more time working or petty thieving than I did hunting squirrels and berries." (Survival roll 9, BTW.)
"And if it wasn't for that particular ritual, I'd probably still ignore it even with my new job."

To Kezzem, she tells him that he might want to save his wand, since it seems to be all over.

Time for our heroes to get some rest. - DM Carl
Friday June 29th, 2018 11:05:25 AM
The dragon is skinned, but most of our heroes are not experts in such things. Luckily, Murphy seems to know what he's doing. He secures enough hide and scales for at least one full set of armor, and there will probably be enough left over to decorate one or two small items with the remaining scales.

The portal starts to pulse, alternating between light and dark, as the edges start to waver. Obviously, it's time to go. Humble's Sword, along with its newest member and her paladin companion, walk through and are slingshotted towards home. They see the ground passing below at incredible speeds, though no wind whips around them. Suddenly, there is a tug on the back of everyone's neck, and the movement slows abruptly. There is a sudden feeling of being pulled quickly down, and in the blink of an eye Humble's Sword finds themselves sitting cross-legged in the Manfri lodge where the trip to save the Sargrass first started. Mahyawu sits cross-legged as well on the opposite side of a small, cozy fire.

Everyone quickly notices that all their wounds are healed, and any lingering negative levels or ability damage has been restored as well. In addition, your clothes, armor, and weapons have all been repaired and cleaned. In fact, the sweat and blood of battle has been washed from all of you, replaced with the scents of sage and wood smoke.

Your animal companions have been cleaned up as well and munch happily on what looks to be some sort of oat. Pippa whinnies happily when she sees Hobie has returned, but keeps eating. Priorities, after all.

Though you're back in the same lodge, it's different. The sounds of many people talking and laboring outside can be heard, and the other-worldly vibe is gone. Everyone is 99% certain they're still on the prime material plane.

"I hope you'll pardon the interruption, heroes," speaks Mahyawu. "We owe you a debt that we cannot repay, but we can try..." He makes a motion, and two Manfri teenagers enter, each carrying a woven basket about the size of a large watermelon. "I saw your druid eyeing this worm when I implored you for help, so we took it upon ourselves to recover what we could from it for you." The baskets are placed on the ground where all can see and are opened. Inside is a fortune of uncut gems and precious metal ores. "The beast must have been ancient. It is a tragedy that it met its end in such a diseased state, but what's done is done." Mahyawu rises and bows once. The lids are placed back on the baskets and secured with woven cord. Before anyone has a chance to thank him, he snaps his fingers and you find yourselves, your companions, and two baskets full of goodies start rocketing back home.

After a few moments you start to recognize where you are, and Humble's Ford slowly comes into view. It's only been a few days since you last saw it, but cleanup from the fire elemental attack has gone well. New burrows have started being constructed to replace the ones that were destroyed. A jagged wall of granite and obsidian still rings the town, but enough of is has been removed to allow the river to flow freely again.

Landing, you notice it's still warm inside the town with that rock wall blocking the breeze. Oh well, given some time that can be dealt with. You land without thouroughfare, so it takes a moment for Humble's Ford's citizens to realize you're back. Roscoe is the first person to notice you've arrived. He stares a moment, making sure you folks are really there, before a huge smile errupts on his face. "HEY, HUMBLE'S SWORD'S BACK EVERYONE!" he shouts, and soon faces are poking out of windows and around corners.

Humble's Sword is absolutely assaulted by townsfolk. Even Blossom BumbleLuck lets her haughty demanor slip for a moment, especially when she notices the handsome newcomer. Work on the town cleanup comes to a halt as everyone comes to welcome you home.

***

The treasure is enough to bring everyone up to the 82,000 GP allowed for 11th level, with about 2000 left to put into repairing the town or sprucing up your homestead.

Next real-time week is pure downtime. Go shopping, work on crafting, do whatever. Ken will be starting the adventures back up on July 9th.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 21, HP 94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 21, HP 61, CMD 23; Followers
Friday June 29th, 2018 2:18:32 PM
OOC: Updating Header and Link to New Sheet

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 85/85
Friday June 29th, 2018 5:10:52 PM
OOC: Updating Header and Link to New Sheet [although it still needs much work]

Request - over the course of next week's posts, can the characters have 3 or 4 weeks off of adventuring? We've been VERY BUSY elsewhere, lately, and would love to catch up on a bit of 'normal' time - and work on things like the new area set aside for the team. And WLA, catching up with social life, reading a few books, lazing in the sun, etc.

Sure. You folks have three in-game weeks off.

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 82/82 AC 27 Touch 18 CMD 29 Hero Points 3
Saturday June 30th, 2018 3:52:51 AM
The first thing that Hobie is going to do, because it was a promise, and it's time sensitive, is to find Cosimo and Duenna of the traveling menagerie (Holy cow that was 5 months ago, February 1st).

He will request Succotash's assistance in particular because his and Miss Piggy's strength could be an asset, and invite any other of Humble's Sword to join him.
Succotash, I hope you can help me with something. You see, before we traveled to the Sargrass we happened upon a traveling menagerie that was nearly decimated. We hadn't the time to stop and give the dead their respects because we had to save the wold. I thought since you recently lost your whole party, that you might be sensitive to the need and help me bury them.

He will go back to the site of their attack (with Cosimo and Duenna if they are willing) and see to it that their dead friends and beloved animals are buried properly. The animals are quite large and will probably need to be buried at the site, but the humanoids (were they all halflings?) he will bring back to Humble's Ford to have buried in the town cemetery.

If Succotash said yes, and he and Hobie spent some time bonding in this solemn occasion, he will invite Succotash to stay with him at Roscoe's house.
Friend, as you are new to our town, you will certainly be looking for lodging. We are constructing a Humble's Sword headquarters where we might all live together, but with recent events, the construction has been quite slowed. You certainly have more than enough gold to stay at the finest inns in town if that's your preference, but if you'd like to have more of a 'home' experience, you are more than welcome to stay with me and my Cousin Roscoe, the town Constable. We have an extra room for you, and Miss Piggy is welcome as well to stay in the stable with my dear Pippa.

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26/ CMD26 - HP 100/100, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electricity 5
Saturday June 30th, 2018 6:32:59 AM
“I happily except your hospitality Hobie”, Succotash says with a smile, “Been living in inns, and more often then not my tent for so long now, a “real home would be very welcome!” “I am more than happy to help you with the burials, but I would like to stop at the Catacombs before we leave, to place an order”. To the rest of the party he says, “Due to the fact that we are adventures, and as such, often find ourselves on the road, why don’t we hire someone to build our headquarters?”

Bliss (AC23, CMD28, HP78of86) (Cayzle)
Saturday June 30th, 2018 8:45:06 AM

Bliss finally gets a moment of down time and seeks out the new guy. Mister Succotash (and Miss Piggy), welcome to Humbles Ford. This is our town. There are three halfling towns in our valley, Crescent Valley. To the north we got giants and mountains. To the south we got goblins and orcs and ogres. To the west is a magic forest. To the east is a bay and a great human nation."

"At least, that's more or less the directions, Mister Murphy can tell you better. I really gotta get some ranks in Survival! Anyway, welcome to our group and to the area! I like your idea of getting someone to build us a more cozy place."

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, HP 119/119, CMD 24; Rumpus - AC 25, HP 62/62, CMD 24, DR 5/evil, Resist acid 5, cold 5, electricity 5
Saturday June 30th, 2018 1:33:35 PM
Kezzem takes a trip to the catacombs to enchant his adamantine short sword against constructs (construct bane) and adds a frost enchantment to his favorite dagger. He also picks up an amulet of mighty "hooves" for Rumpus and a handful of alchemists fires.

He also takes some down time to brush up on his knowledge on Gargul, the undead, and religion in general. As a paladin he feels he should know these things!

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electricity 5
Saturday June 30th, 2018 2:32:23 PM
"Hey Kezzem! wait up!", Succotash hollers to his fellow paladin, "I'll join you on the way to the catacombs, I'm looking to buy a pair of boots of speed, and a headband of charisma (+2) for myself, and a shock tear for Piggy".

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) 85/85
Sunday July 1st, 2018 2:16:44 AM
HF Things to do after SARR

Town fixin'
Murphy is pleased to see that townsfolk have allowed for the river to pass through its normal channel again. He offers to open up the roadways into and out of town through the walls, if that has not already been accomplished.

Town repair: Murphy provides a measure of help to fix things about town. He solidifies the tunnels and larger underground areas with the help of spells and assisting elementals, and takes time here and there to complete the ones he had earlier planned. "May come in handy down the road," he says.

Succotash's Suggestion
"That is an excellent idea, Succotash. As a matter of fact, the town leadership has provided us with a construction project manager, Foreman George. We have plans for the new place a tad bit north of town. I'll show you a map we laid out of the general plans." He pulls a few scrolls out of his haversack, and spreads them out - Humble's Sword Acres 2018. "See here, this first scroll ('Master 10' View') gives the general plan. Then this next one ('Detailed 2.5ft View') shows more detail." He hands Succotash a copy of 'Everyone Play Map' (name of tab on map). [Click on that tab. Click on little down arrow to right of tab name. Click on Duplicate. After the Duplicate is made, rename it to your character's name. Feel free to make proposed changes to the plan on your copy of it.] Murphy makes the same offer to Kezzem, Hobie, Bliss & Pressi.

More on the compound: The general plans had already been laid out. Anyone who wishes to may join Murphy in discussing the plans again with the builders. After the town work, he focuses on the new place - especially the building up of the central building, engaging earth elementals principly in assisting him, but other elementals as needed for various details. For plumbing, ventilation, secure areas, some hidden passageways and storage, he consults with Foreman George, and coordinates with him.

Humble's Sword Initiation Rites
"Say, Bliss," begins Murphy, "How would you like to figure out a welcoming ceremony - not just for Succotash, but also for any who may wish to join us in the future. I think that newcomers - we may want to have them go through maybe one or two missions with us before we welcome them fully as members of the group. Give them a chance to see if they want to commit to us, and for us to see if they fit with us. I think Succotash will be great. Talk it over with others, if you want. I trust you, Bliss. Go over your ideas with me before we do it. Let's see if we can have a ceremony tomorrow - or later, if you need the time. And a pledge for all of us to make to one another, as members of Humble's Ford."

Keeping a Promise
To fulfill the pledge to the air elementals Murphy made in order to enlist their aid against the fire elementals, he suggests that Pressi join him to meet with Papa Samell (Samell Fingers Pastna Pipewood - Murphy's father) to plan design and construction of the promised white spire for air elemental dancing - something with wind instrument capabilities, harmonics, frolicking. Plan is to place in area where Murphy met with elder elementals to the northwest a ways across the river. He asks his father how tall they might make it. "Fifty feet? A hundred feet tall?"

Staying in touch
Over the course of the next few weeks, if she is willing and available, Murphy sees about spending some time with Pressi every day or so - having a meal, going dancing, taking a walk, talking about ... things.

Once or twice a week, if possible, have a two hour meeting with all members of team. Some may want WLA training. Can WLA trainers meet us in HF? If not, there is a WLA chapter in nearby Angel Springs, about 8-12 hours travel away from Humble's Ford, more or less.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) 85/85
Sunday July 1st, 2018 2:19:06 AM

Note: The Catacombs entrance in Humble's Ford is via Pirnook's General Store.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) 85/85
Sunday July 1st, 2018 2:29:34 AM

Regarding the tunnels, here is the Map of Murphy's Tunnels, Rev1, with Key.

Bliss (AC23, CMD28, HP78of86) (Cayzle)
Sunday July 1st, 2018 8:02:32 PM

Bliss tilts his head and stares at Murphy. "Um, make a ceremony? Like really? Couldn't we all just join the WLA? They're the best group I know, and they already have a good ceremony. I did it."

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) 85/85
Sunday July 1st, 2018 10:15:37 PM

"Good call, Bliss," Murphy replies.

"Yeah, Succotash, everyone agrees, we want you to stay with the group," Murphy tells him. "You're officially a member of Humble's Sword. Welcome on, fully!" He shakes the paladin's hand.

"Say, have you heard about the Woldian League of Adventurers? A few of us are heading over to Angel Springs, maybe next week, for some training. We'd be happy to have you join in with us, if you've a mind to."

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electricity 5
Monday July 2nd, 2018 6:23:47 AM
“Thanks for the offer, Murphy, but I already promised Hobie I’d help him out with the burials and such, I’m not sure if we’ll be back in time”.

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electricity 5
Monday July 2nd, 2018 6:34:29 AM
However, if we are able to get back in time, count me in, I could do with some training, and thanks again for the hearty welcome to Humble’s Sword.

At this time, Succotash places his hand on his holy symbol, and says, “I Succotash Slenderstick, Paladin of Pantheon, along with Miss Piggy, a most excellent pig, do swear to do my best to help the causes of this great adventuring group, and am willing to do what it takes, even laying down my life, to help protect it”.

Time for our heroes to get some rest. - DM Carl
Monday July 2nd, 2018 12:44:56 PM
During the downtime, I'll just be posting appropriate NPC actions, not rehashing what you folks are doing.

***

Hobie manages to track down Cosimo and Duenna living with Murphy's family.

"Mama Bekka put us up once we delivered Murphy's note to her," starts Duenna. "Unopened," interjects Cosimo without looking up from his labor. Duenna ignores the interjection. "I've grown quite fond of your village. I've made plans to stay on myself. Mama Bekka's already agreed to put me up so long as I do my part."

"Not me," says Cosimo. "Not that I don't appreciate everything, but small town life's not for me. In fact, if any of you are planning on heading out to anyplace more...populated anytime soon, I'd like to tag along if you'll let me. Don't feel too safe exploring the countryside alone."

Duenna agrees to accompany Hobie and any others on their quest to bury the Menagarie's dead. Cosmio politely declines; his attachment to them doesn't seem to have strengthened any in your absence.

The townsfolk take an immediate interest when Murphy starts dismantling the rock wall. "The heat doesn't seem too bad at first, but try living in it for a while," explains mayor Bingo. "We'd all appreciate you doing what you can to bring it down."

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, HP 119/119, CMD 24; Rumpus - AC 25, HP 62/62, CMD 24, DR 5/evil, Resist acid 5, cold 5, electricity 5
Monday July 2nd, 2018 1:58:35 PM
"Oh, sure tag along kid," says Kezzem to Succo. "I've never been there either, so hopefully we will spot us a guide there."

Bliss (AC23, CMD28, HP78of86) (Cayzle)
Monday July 2nd, 2018 2:09:25 PM

Bliss is glad to hear that their new paladin pal is coming to join the WLA. "Sir Succotash, don't worry none about getting your job done in time. Many hands make for fast work!"

He introduces the new guy to all his friends, and Pressi's if they are around.

"This is Joy, our cook, and Comfort, our healer, and Hesitation and Mourning, our musicians, who make people happy. They are twins." That last bit is not really needed, seeing as Hesitation and Mourning are identical.

Bliss tells his friends about Succotash's job with Hobie, and he asks if we all can help pitch in, then head to Angel Springs.

Bliss has an idea! "Hey! You all come along too!" he says to his followers. "You all should be WLA members like me!"

In a private aside with Pressi, the small bloodwitch urges his fellow witch to bring her followers to join the WLA too. "After all," he says, with the guidance of his inner Mookie, "the cost is free so long as they say the oath!"

So Bliss proposes to do chores, then head to Angel Springs for WLA training!

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 21, HP 94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 21, HP 61, CMD 23; Followers
Monday July 2nd, 2018 4:43:23 PM
After some much needed rest and recuperation, Pressi finally took some time to see what was on her list. Her first priority, some much needed prayers of half hearted thanks and blue arguments to her pain oriented deity, had been completed to sufficient satisfaction, and the Justicars had decided not to drop her just yet.

Getting some much needed gear seemed to be a priority, and... she supposed she ought to do WLA training too, though she was far less missionary than Bliss had become. Surely he will soon be knocking on the doors of random halflings, asking if they heard the good word that is the WLA.

Come to think of it, they ought to be doing that for their coven, too.

Leaving her room at the Dancing Pig, she shielded her eyes from the light and took in the fields of Humbles Ford below. Turning towards the statue that inexplicably stood outside her door, a longsword at the ready, she tells it to stand down with a hand wave of dismissal and moves to rejoin the group.

Her first stop was to her coven to check in on their well being and to see if the town needed further good works. Then, off to the air elemental tower planning committee, to which she is never prepared for. She spends some time with Murphy alone, of course, and tries to get some time to know the new guys.

And of course, she needs to sit down with the plans for the new hall, if she ever gets the chance.

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electricity 5
Monday July 2nd, 2018 4:49:17 PM
Splendid idea Bliss and thanks for the help, besides taking the oath, I think I’m going to go ahead and get my first tier of training in, I’m with you, I really need to gain some survival skills, and I think I’ll add to my mediocre healing skills as well, just in case we run into some of those thin/tall men thing-a-ma-bobs, now that the Sarrgrass is in the Wold, kind of sucks when magic won’t heal.

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electricity 5
Monday July 2nd, 2018 5:25:52 PM
“Where are my manners”, Succotash says while slapping his forehead. To Joy he says, “ I can always appreciate a good cook, I hope to try some of your cuisine someday, to Comfort he says, “As a Paladin, I always enjoy meeting another healer, maybe we can exchange pointers someday”, and to the twins he says, “I’m not the best but I love playing my drum, maybe we can all get together and jam someday”.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) 85/85
Monday July 2nd, 2018 8:06:37 PM

"I will go with you for the burial ceremony," Murphy tells Succotash. "It's only a few hours travel from here, so that should not prevent us from going to Angel Springs next week."

"A fine pledge, my new friend. A very fine pledge, for you and for your most excellent Miss Piggy."

As nearly always when in town, he spends time with his family. Murphy finds Duenna and Cosimo at the family burrow. "Cosimo, I had some doubts about you. It is clear you honor your word. Will you forgive me for misjudging you? I was wrong. Look, next week some of us are heading to Angel Springs, a decent-sized city, with plenty of options. You are welcome to accompany us, if you've a mind to do so."

He is happy that Duenna plans to stay, and tells her so. "Mama always has this project and that which can use some extra hands."

Over the next three weeks (this week of posting), Murphy has the following things planned (besides spending time with mates, and Pressi). Will flesh out in future posts this week. The order listed is not necessarily the order of performance.

Murphy's To Do List
1. Meet w/ Foreman George to see how things are going in the building projects at Humble's Sword Acres (or whatever we're going to call it). Spend some time helping, coordinating, surveying.
2. With Pressi, meet with Papa Samell to go over construction of the tall, white spire to be build for the air elementals at the cliff outside town which overlooks some of the farms.
3. Raze some of the walls surrounding the town.
4. Finish (or advance/shore up) town tunnel system mapped out.
5. Transplant two huge oaks. Awaken one. Liveoak another.
6. Spend two days in Angel Springs (WLA training, visiting druids, family at shop, et al)
7. Visit with various key people around town.
8. Ask community leaders - civil, religious, social - to plan a festival of thanksgiving in celebration of the preservation of HF, and of the well-being of the Wold, to give thanks to heaven above, and to rejoice with one another. "Let good stories be told."
9. Take 1 day off a week for worship, visiting with friends, and with wise members of the community.
10. He will journal each day - focusing early on the recent events with the Sword, then later on things going on around town.
11. Give local children (and adults, if they want) rides while shapechanged into various critters.

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electricity 5
Monday July 2nd, 2018 8:58:47 PM
“I just thought of a great name for our Headquarters”, Succotash shares with his friends, “How about “The Sanctuary”?, of course, I’m just the new guy, so feel free to ignore my suggestion, but I just felt like it would be a sanctuary, so why not call it what it is, or will be”.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, HP 119/119, CMD 24; Rumpus - AC 25, HP 62/62, CMD 24, DR 5/evil, Resist acid 5, cold 5, electricity 5
Monday July 2nd, 2018 11:58:54 PM
"I should probably get around to the getting one of this WLA membership thingies too," says Kezzem. "How do I do that?"

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) 85/85
Tuesday July 3rd, 2018 12:43:48 AM

"Good thought, Succotash," Murphy responds to the new paladin's suggestion. "A place of holiness, something set apart, and a place of refuge or safety. 'The Sanctuary of Humble's Sword,' perhaps?"

--------

"Here is how it works, Kezzem. The WLA, or Woldian League of Adventurers, was formed a lo-o-ong time ago, in the beginning years of the Second Age. Members swear to protect the innocent and combat evil, and to uphold the ideals of the League.

"Once you join, and take the oath, you get a badge, like this one," and he displays a badge in the form of a crenelated tower with an encircled symbol. "It's Old High Woldian for the WLA - I've got to learn me that language one of these days." He takes it off so that Kezzem, and anyone else, can take a closer look at it for a few minutes.

"So, the starter levels are free. If you want to advance further - which costs something - you also get more specialized training. Dues incur at 3rd, 6th, 9th, 12th, and 16th level. If you want to be trained all the way up to your current level, you'll spend 7,000 gold pieces. I have found it to be worthwhile. You would gain additional knowledge in several skills (11 skill point bonuses, no more than two per skill), plus three feats, and prestige. If you want to keep costs down, you could pay for only, say, Journeyman - third level - and Guardian - 6th level, which would get you the training and feats through 8th level, for only 3,500 gold.

"We share information with the WLA - and they with us. I keep a journal of this group's actions, what we find out there in the Wold, and I make a copy of it for their archives. Lots of groups do that - it helps WLA members around the Wold to keep up with what's going on, and especially what is useful to know. I've got one of my younger brothers who copies my journals. I check through it before sending it on - but he hardly ever makes any copying errors, unless my writing gets smeared or something."

He takes back his badge, and affixes it again on his chest. "So, hope that helps, Kez. Why don't you and Succotash plan on spending a week out there - sample the whole banquet, as it were?" Then he adds, "And Angel Springs is an interesting city. You'll want to watch your valuables in certain parts of town."

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) 85/85
Tuesday July 3rd, 2018 2:43:50 AM

BTW - we did get the dragonhead, some skin and dragon scale through the window, right? How about the single claw that Murphy mentioned? Hobie suggested Murphy have that made into armor for him - but if someone else wants it, he is all right with that.

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 82/82 AC 27 Touch 18 CMD 29 Hero Points 3
Tuesday July 3rd, 2018 3:39:41 AM
https://www.d20pfsrd.com/equipment/special-materials/#TOC-Dragonhide
It seems that if you wanted heavy or medium armor, you can only make one set, but if a couple people wanted hide armor, you should be able to make 2 or 3 small sized Hide Armors.

Hobie makes it known that he doesn't need any dragonhide armor, but he would like some of the scraps, just enough to reskin his quiver with dragonhide. He would also love a dragon scale if there are any, he's heard they can possess powerful magic.

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electricity 5
Tuesday July 3rd, 2018 5:31:56 AM
“I for one think “The Sanctuary of Humble’s Sword” sounds perfect!”, Succotash exclaims. He then adds, “I would love to get all the training my experience has earned, but at the moment I can only afford the training for the first tier, it seems The Catacombs got the lions share of my gold, but I intended to make the trip worth while”.

Bliss (AC23, CMD28, HP78of86) (Cayzle)
Tuesday July 3rd, 2018 7:30:02 AM

OOC: Note that Woldian Dragonhide has its own special rules.

Bliss likes "Sanctuary," and hopes it can also be the home for the Coven that he and Pressi run. "With some cells for the prisoners," he adds.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 21, HP 94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 21, HP 61, CMD 23
Tuesday July 3rd, 2018 11:04:41 AM
(The followers and Pressi's Lesser Immortal summons have been moved to Pressi's sheet. The post name was just getting ridiculous.)

----------

Pressi considers the possibility of owning dragonscale hide armor with actual lust, but for now has to decline. (ASF 10% after feat, caps her dex bonus, etc.) If Murphy's not looking for full plate and nobody else wants to share, she asks the group if the 10% risk is acceptable.

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

"Now that Murphy has shared with everyone the mechanics," Pressi would tell her followers and the new people, "It's time to talk strategy. Obviously, you have to balance other aspects, including your personality in general (group joiner) and the particular ethos, and I resisted the call to join a group, too.

"Part of the reason for the push is that there are benefits when interacting with other members, though some organizations are more so. But you have to look at the benefts per group. So, here they are..."

WLA - skill points, 5 free feats that aren't the most desired, but can give some benefits for the price. Pressi's a WLA member to keep up her rogue skills and more easily afford the prestige class.

Mailed Fist - 2 teamwork feats that can vastly boost offense, and some training to expand how much they can be used. (You also get a "floating armory" for emergencies. This was Pressi's old org, and I'd recommend our paladins take a closer look before locking anything in.

Star Mages - slotless items (like a free pearl of power) and some base resources (like reduced fee teleport for the group), based on CL and the most RP time intensive

Chancers Club - mostly RP, some chance to gather info or gamble

Sage's Guild - it takes some substantial skill point payments to max it out, so it's primarily for characters focused almost solely on skills like bards or diviner witches.

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

Pressi is in general agreement in regards to the new home, and will take a look at the plans eventually. She introduces the new members to her coven followers.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, HP 119/119, CMD 24; Rumpus - AC 25, HP 62/62, CMD 24, DR 5/evil, Resist acid 5, cold 5, electricity 5
Tuesday July 3rd, 2018 1:30:19 PM
Kezzem checks his funds after returning from the catacombs. "Ah crap, I forgot to put some money aside for joining one of these guild thingies. Well, I can do that first two levels of the WLA for now at least to boost my knowledge on religion thingies. And it looks like down the road it can make me quicker, tougher, and better able to protect you guys so Murphy doesn't have to die again."

Time for our heroes to get some rest. - DM Carl
Tuesday July 3rd, 2018 3:34:19 PM
Real talk, Swords: I'm swamped. This is the busiest time of the year for me, and right now it's kicking my butt. Since we're on downtime, my posting will be minimal while you guys do your in-town RP. If something needs my attention, please let me know. Otherwise Ken will be starting things up again on Monday.

***

Cosimo nods as he accepts Murphy's apology. "Honestly, you weren't too far off. Either way, I'd be happy to tag along if you're headed to Angel Springs." When it's time to go, Cosimo is paid fair wages for his work and then some. It's enough to keep him fed and housed in Angel Springs for a few weeks if he spends his money wisely.

The dragonhide is looked at further. There's enough material for a shield, as well as a full set of masterwork half-plate, scale, banded, hide, or studded leather armor. At least, there is if it's for a halfling. A set of armor made from it will provide a +3 to saves vs negative energy or death effects. Of course, there's always the chance that another umbral dragon will notice you wearing the hide and take offense, but they're pretty rare. What are the chances of that happening? Enough scraps to cover a quiver and a stray scale or two will be easy enough to manage.

Two nights after our heroes' arrival home, a party is thrown in their honor at the temple of Flower. The Dancing Pig and the Belly Buster work together once again to provide food and drink, though patrons of both establishments are told in no uncertain terms to not get used to it.

The Pigs in particular take a shine to Succotash and his trusty stead. "It..it just wouldn't do for someone with so fine a pig to end up with those stuck up, fine dinin' (he makes little air quotes as he says this bit) Busters. No sir." Several attempts are made throughout the evening to sneak beer and ale to Miss Piggy, usually before aiming her towards the food table and swatting her rear. It's a traditional Humble's Ford affair, meaning that by the end of the evening priests of Flower are dragging passed out halflings out the front door, the BadApples have been kicked out and snuck back in a dozen or so times, and Mulberry and Blossom have stared enough death at each other to strike down any of our humble heroes.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) 85/85 d20+13=31 ;
Tuesday July 3rd, 2018 5:05:23 PM
Murphy post 20180703

"When you get to Angel Springs, Cosimo, I want you to look up my brother, Nalfein, at WinWood Music and Toys. He knows his way around the city as well as any. He and my sister, Leska Rose, are good allies to have in the city."
=======
At the party, Murphy checks with those who keep kicking out the BadApples. "Say, have they done anything wrong while here tonight? If not, let me talk with them - if I bring them back in, then, please don't kick any out - only if, say, one of them does something unseemly, then I will ask that one to leave. Sound all right?"

He says, "Hey, Pressi, join me for a moment." If she comes, he takes her with him outside to members of the once-again rejected BadApples. "Hey, I think you all are not being treated too well tonight. I talked to some inside, and asked them to lay off on you. I have high regard for Crystal - she's done a lot of good for the town, and is a good friend to Hazel and Alouryn. Candy, she helped rescue and take care of some of the kids when the orphanage caught on fire. A tough lady, who has a spot of good tenderness in her heart. I met one of your relatives, Rory Sourwood BadApple, out in Angel Springs a while back. He was with Rosco P. Hairfoot, Lord Mayor.

"Hi Pearl. How are things? Balbo, Belba," he says with a nod of his head. He does not place high trust in those two, but asks, "How're tricks? You keeping up your sorcery skills? You came up with some good ideas in the games a few years back." He turns to their younger brother. "Paldo - you keeping up your practice with the longbow? I know you were one of the best around - so I hope you keep that up," he encourages him. "Say, we are setting up an archery range at our new place out where the old communal building was. If you want to come practice there on the range, you're welcome to do so, once we've got that laid down." Murphy also greets by name any others of the BadApples whom he knows. "As a matter of fact, we'll have an 'open house' once we've got most things set up. I'd be happy to have you come once we do - but it'll be a while before we're set up.

"Anyway, enough of me talking. You are each and all welcome to the celebration. If anyone - and I'm not just talking about you - anyone at the party causes problems, I will deal with them. On second thought, Candy, tell you what - I'll let you step in first and deal with your folks if you think any are stepping out of bounds. You take care of it, then I don't need to. Other than that, come on in, and celebrate with us that the Wold has not just gotten totally warped!" he says with a wry grin. "I'd like you to be with us. I'd be happy to introduce you to some of the newer members of our group who don't know the town well, yet." Diplomacy: 31

If Candy agrees, then he escorts them all in, and says, loudly, "ALL of Humble's Ford celebrates today, TOGETHER! And we'll be kind to one another, RIGHT!?!" As Miss Piggy trots by, he gives her a pat on the flank.

He then approaches Mulberry and Blossom, pulls them together for a whispered moment. He lets Pressi mentally eavesdrop. "You both are women of stellar beauty. If you chose to be friends, rather than rivals, and learned humility, and how to serve others, you could almost rule the Wold by example. Jealously and spite mar your beauty. Find someone whose pulchritude does not match yours, and make some friends - by getting to know them, and genuinely care for them. Have either of you considered taking up the worship of Flower? In short, you might find yourselves much happier if you thought of others more, and less about your own self. All right, now I'll step away, and you two can decide whether to keep hating on each other, or instead try to find things to enjoy about the fact that you are not warped and ravaged by bloodweed." He turns and leaves them to start introducing Succotash to the BadApples, and to the dignitaries, and many interesting people who make up the Ford.

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electricity 5
Tuesday July 3rd, 2018 5:26:48 PM
Succotash is a bit overwhelmed at the reception he has been receiving and whispers into Murphy’s ear, “Is it always like this when you guys come home?” He does his best to remember everyone’s name, but is certain he is going to fail miserably. When approached by the patrons of the “Dancing Pig”, he say, as a Paladin of Pantheon, I have to judge fairly, although I heartily appreciate your hospitality, I really need sample the wares and ales from both establishments, before I can make a fair and honest opinion “.

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electricity 5
Tuesday July 3rd, 2018 5:31:34 PM
And although both Mulberry and Blossom caught his eye, he had to agree with Murphy, that they would both be a lot more beautiful if they dropped the hate for each other, and, decided they weren’t “his kind of gal”.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) 85/85
Wednesday July 4th, 2018 9:51:28 AM

Murphy laughs. "Oh, Succotash, we get all kinds of reactions around here. But, yes, sometimes we all party, like this!"

Say, Hobie - can you play again that song you played on the battlefield after the Saar yielded to the massed adventurers? I really liked it!" (Rockabye - Clean Bandit (Oud cover) by Ahmed Alshaiba) "Maybe some of the musicians here at the party can join in with you! Hey, everyone - listen to Hobie's song!"

========

[Apologies for the length of this post. No one need read the whole thing. Just want to document what the busy fellow is up to. -Kim]

Murphy's To Do List fleshed out to absurd lengths

1. The Sanctuary of Humble's Sword (were calling it Humble's Sword Acres). Question for group: May Murphy, of the 2000 gp for 'repairing the town or sprucing up your homestead' (DM's June 29th post) use it for this work? His thought is to set up an account for Foreman George for materials, and paying for additional labor where needed. It seems the town leaders are helping in part to fund the crew, but I do not know to what extent.]

So, what does George have to say? Likely not too much progress during all the chaos of the volcano, and bloodweed. Ready to really get going on the project now? Murphy will take a fair part of one day, and perform a more complete subterranean survey of the area under the Sanctuary than he had time for a few weeks ago. For the first 300 feet of depth, below the compound, and extending out to 100 feet out from each side and corner, Murphy, as an earth elemental, surveys in a 10'x10'x500' grid, descending 10 feet deeper after documenting each pass on a separate sheet of paper. After 300 feet of depth are written up, the druid takes a few probes down further to a maximum depth of 600 feet, but not in as dense a pattern. He communicates about once every ten minutes to Pressi via the permanent message spell the gist of what he is finding, noting any interesting bits. He notes some materials that might be useful up top. Boulders, openings, underground streams, minerals, changes in soil and rock type, etc. he marks. He will ask one of Foreman George's more talented helpers to make a copy of each subterranean level map. [I'm not asking our kindly DM(s) to produce such a map - just for general info, and, if there is anything particularly outstanding, to note that.] For the deeper dives down to 600 feet, he makes a few additional maps.

After that is done, he excavates where the under-the-wall ramp will go for the West Gate.

Later, after returning from Angel Springs, Murphy again meets with Foreman George. He had asked him to first build a workshop and a dwelling for the workers near the south gate. He thinks then the stables, and the Guest House - which, after being built, in the short term, can house the followers of Bliss and Pressi, and Humble's Sword - cozy, eh? Later, the central rock building can serve the adventurers. After the guest house, the Stables, Barn, Warehouse. Fit somewhere in there the Target Practice Range.

2. Air elemental spire (DM(s) - see email)

3. Raze the walls. For the sake of brevity, I will not bore you with more than a few details. Suffice it to say that Murphy can take down 2,200 feet of the walls over a five day period, plus change the top 2.5 feet of other wall sections (another 2,200 feet worth) into moist clay - suitable for potters, farmers, and serving as ingredients for the yet-to-be-built white spire for the air elementals. The wall's circumference is close to 20,000 feet. So that is 11% totally razed, and 11% dropped down from 10' to 7.5 feet in height, once the clay is removed. Each 110' long by 20' deep section he affects is separated by a 90 foot untouched section. The gaps are placed, four in a hyphenated row each, in five separate parts of the wall, so that cross breezes may begin. Not a perfect solution, but a start. One of the sections is on the other side of the river. Toward the mid-point of the third week, he will return, and spend a few days terraforming the area using the move earth spell, once the mud has dried. Because of mud, he asks citizens to rope off muddy areas, and supervise until the ground has firmed up.

4. Spend a few days on underground tunnel system. There were a few sections mapped out he did not have time to get to before the firey invasion. Finish the tunneling, then earth to mud, mud to rock spells with help of water elementals, as before.

5. There are oaks scattered here and there around the town and a bit outside of town. Get permission from the local authorities. Pay for the trees if asked. Choose two specimens - healthy oaks of a huge size. Cast Diminish Plants on each one (shrinks tree to about 1/3rd of normal size, becoming untangled and less bushy). 'You may designate portions of the area that are not affected' - he limits the area to the tree, or two trees, he casts the spell for. As earth elemental, dig out ball of earth which contain most of the trees' roots, then transport them to The Sanctuary. One he plants in the NW corner, and one in the SE corner. After they are carefully replanted, then he casts Plant Growth, limiting the focus to these two trees, restoring them to their original size. 'Plant growth counters diminish plants.' He lets them settle for a couple of days as he tends to other matters.

Then, one full day he sets aside to cast Awaken on the NW tree. Already rolled two days ago in the LnB, where I rolled a Will save of 33 vs DC10+awakened tree's HD. The tree has 14 Int, 12 Wis, 15 Cha, and 6+8 extra hit points (but I have not been able to find just how many HD it has). It speaks Halfling, Common, and Sylvan. He names the awakened oak the Halfling (Welsh) word for oak, 'Dderwen' - pronounced /therr-'wen/.

The next day, he casts Liveoak on the tree in the SE corner, transforming it into a treant. It speaks Common, Sylvan, and Treant. He names the treant 'Quercus.'

Their job? Help protect the area from those who would harm. He teaches them that the workers are not there to harm. And, be kind to children who come to visit.

6. Angel Springs. Murphy travels with his friends, I think early in the second week since their return (will go when the main group goes, if earlier than this - will reschedule other activities if need be). He helps out Sword members who are just joining, serving with his other WLA friends as one of their sponsors. He spends a day to gain a skill bonus in Spellcraft. He turns over the latest updates for his journal, to add to what he has already given them, and asks about current news in the city. Oh, when they arrive in town, he also takes folks to his family's shop, WinWood Music and Toys, and introduces them to a pair of his older siblings, brother Nalfein (rogue, craftsman), and sister Leska Rose (druid, artist). Pressi already knows them well. He asks them - especially Nalf - to help Cosimo get to know the city. He asks if they know of any place where rent is low - but security is not too bad. He give Leska 50 gold pieces to help out Cosimo if he needs it down the road. He does not tell Cosimo about the funds, though.

Murphy goes to visit with the elf druids on the other side of the wall, in their grove. He catches them up on goings on which may be of druidic interest. He asks about caring for animated trees, and treants.

He spends a few hours at the bookstore run by Mungo Hardbottle - a sagacious fellow, advanced spellcaster, with books and magic items to be found at his shop. He asks if Mungo might have any books or such regarding Shadow Mountain. He also wants to learn more of Mount Bone (not too far distant from Dirt City). If he has nothing, might he suggest where to go to seek such info? He brings him some of Uncle Orby's pipe tobacco which he knows he favors, and a nicely carved pipe (subtracting 25 gp from wealth to cover cost). Of course, he's willing to pay for any books or scrolls.

This is something that would be common knowledge, but, is Rosco P. Hairfoot still Lord Mayor? If so, he will see if he can schedule a 15-minute visit with him - or even 5 minutes, for he is a busy halfling. He simply wants to thank him for the way he treated with Humble's Sword some time back. He does ask, as discretely as he might, as to what Rory Sourwood BadApple might be up to these days. He also asks how things are going for the city in general, following the recent happenings.

7. Back in Humble's Ford, Murphy endeavors to spend perhaps a teatime with McGregor HeadWise - the town's Eldest, and wisest Halfling. He has wanted to meet with him - but event after event seems to preclude the druid taking the time to do so. He asks about the old days of the town, and stories. He answers, or tries to answer, any questions the Humble Old One may ask. As always, if any members of Humble's Sword want to come along, they are welcome.

9. Murphy sees about the new community worship center that Pressi has helped sponsor. He worships Flower in the Temple of Flower, and Eberyon in the new community worship center, with tips of the hat to other deities and powers. [Hope I got that correct - Pressi has been coordinating somewhat on that project, right?]

11. On the one day a week of worship, the druid does offer rides to local citizens - focusing on the children, but also letting adventurous adults try, as well. He will take the forms of: Elephant; Triceratops; Gorilla. A week later, he does: Giant Chameleon; Dire Wolverine; Camel. If there is a third chance, he wildshapes for rides to: Baluchitherium; Dire Lion (if he may); and ... Dire Bat?

Knowing his plans, he lets Hugo and Primula PipeLeaf know. They already have discussed exotic saddle plans. He finds out if they are willing to help out, so that the childen can be kept relatively safe as they ride him. He will compensate them for their work, of course.

=======
Yes, yes, this is all Murphy's idea of getting rest :-)

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electricity 5
Wednesday July 4th, 2018 11:20:32 AM
While in Angel Springs, Succotash speak the oath and pay the 1000gp for the 1st level of training at the WLA, he will also spend the appropriate time training to obtain the skill points (5) and feat. He will take the self-sufficient feat, and apply 2 points to survival, 2 points to stealth, and 1 to heal.

*****I Succotash Slenderstick, Paladin of Pantheon, do solemnly swear to uphold the ideals of the league, to protect the innocent, and to combat evil wherever I may find it******

Back at Humble’s Ford, he will join Murphy with giving kids rides, allowing them to ride Miss Piggy, he will also use his str to give helicopter rides to anyone who wants to get dizzy.

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 82/82 AC 27 Touch 18 CMD 29 Hero Points 3
Wednesday July 4th, 2018 11:27:36 AM
I'm sorry, I'm gonna be out in the mountains without wifi until Saturday.

Hobie spends the rest of his downtime relaxing with Pippa and Roscoe, and scribing some scrolls. If there are any scrolls that you guys might like from the Sorcerer/Wizard Spell list levels 1 to 3, let Hobie know, and he will be happen to scribe one for you.

Also if there are any particular spells on that list that you might like Hobie to cast for you, like any buffs or whatever, let me know so that I can make sure he adds them to his spellbook.

He plans to open up most battles by casting Haste on the party from here on out.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, HP 119/119, CMD 24; Rumpus - AC 25, HP 62/62, CMD 24, DR 5/evil, Resist acid 5, cold 5, electricity 5
Wednesday July 4th, 2018 1:41:37 PM
Kezzem also takes the WLA pledge, although he doesn't have the funds for additional training at this time. He uses the WLA resources to boost his knowledge about religion and the undead, as he feels as a paladin he should know more about such things.

OOC: From an RP perspective, of course Kezzem would join the WLA--that's where his friends are! Also, the feats offered are more attractive to him (planning to take Run, Toughness, Fleet of Foot, and Bodyguard) as they allow him to increase his mobility (to get where he's needed) and better protect his allies.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, HP 119/119, CMD 24; Rumpus - AC 25, HP 62/62, CMD 24, DR 5/evil, Resist acid 5, cold 5, electricity 5
Wednesday July 4th, 2018 1:42:37 PM
I'm going to be away tomorrow and Friday as well.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) 85/85
Wednesday July 4th, 2018 9:57:36 PM
[Ran this post by DM Carl for his okay -Kim]

Air Elemental Spire Planning

Samell Fingers Pastna Pipewood welcomes Pressi and Murphy (and other team or community members, if desired) to talk with him about the tall white wind spire for the air elementals. He asks for her views on the subject, and says he has looked over the model she put together. "Some good ideas there, Miss Pressi. Murphy also told me suggestions the little air spirit carried back to you two. With all the musical instruments I've made, I have some idea how to allow it to make fair sounds as air flows through, going for harmonics, and even melody. I've got some ideas for percussion, and maybe strings, as well.

"Regarding the strings - they may require occasional replacement. Find out if the elementals would be bothered by that detail. For the wind channels, maybe set up a five-tone scale for the top half, and allow for additional harmonics, perhaps a minor note or two, for the bottom portion. Wonder if I can incorporate a few twists, so that the air spirits can tune it to their pleasure? Normally, have the five tone scale. But, but opening a few channels, go to eight tones for special occasions? Even twelve tones, for complex pieces. Ah, sorry, I may be thinking of something too complex here. The old bard in me saying, 'Try this, Samell, try this!'" He ponders a moment, and adds, "Hmm - wonder if I could add some horns?" Looking away, it appears for a moment as though he is pushing the valves on a trumpet.

Then he returns his attention to the pair in front of him. "Speak up anytime, Miss Pressi, if you'd like to add anything. I know you're a bright one." he asks his son, "So, Murphy, what's the largest size an air elemental gets to?"

"Uh, well, I spoke with an elder elemental," the druid responds. "About 40 feet, I think? Except when it's whirlwinding, then it can get to about 60 feet."

"Forty, huh? Well, the tower should rise above the ground at least twice that height - and three times would be better. So, 120 above ground. Structurally, you want to have at least half the above ground height placed well underground. So, say we go for 120 feet. Make it another 60 to 80 feet under the earth, to anchor it, give it good stability. If we broaden the base underground, you might get away with a little less than that - say 50 feet. But let's stick with 60 or so, for safety - and broaden the base, to boot."

The craftsman pulls out a fair-sized black slate, 3'x2', and some chalk. He expertly sketches the cliff where it's planned for placement. He draws a gently spiraled obelisk, wherein the spiral winds widdershins in the lower third, changes to a simple tubular form until halfway up, on which he draws, using a light tan chalk, some representations of flying creatures and patterned lines, and then reverses the spiral to deasil as it extends upward to about 120' above the top of the cliff, with its base perhaps fifteen or so feet back from the cliff edge, then dotted lines under the cliff face going down half as far as the upper part extends into the sky.

"We should stage its construction up above the cliff, form a mold, and set it up so we can then slide it into place into a prepared hole.

"I know all about your work on the tunnels, son. You can build the hole. Then, once we place the spire, you can do your earth to mud, then mud to stone trick, and shore it up nice and thick. If the cliff ever erodes, what you do can help to ensure it will still stand. You might want to store up some of those spells in a wand or staff, or have some extra scrolls. The work, when the spire is ready for it, will need to be done fairly quickly. Maybe get another druid to help you out. Or a mage, whatever. I can ask my sister if she could help, or if she knows who might. We can place inside the material several long iron rods along its length, albeit skewed this way and that to resist various stress lines, and spidersilk ropes - add to its strength, and resilience.

"You want to ensure it will stay strong for a good long time. Something like 500 years or more - maybe a thousand. Of course, if it's attacked seriously, all bets might be off. But if it's reserved for frolicking air elementals..."

"Papa, we'll be dead in 500 years," Murphy interjects. "What difference does it make if it lasts that long?"

Samell puts down his chalk. He looks over at the wall where many of his tools are neatly organized. Then he looks at Murphy. "Really, Murphy? Really, son?" He puts the slate away, and tosses the chalk into a small canvas bucket, and says, "Come talk again when you decide to get serious about this." He ushers his son and Pressi out of the shop, and locks the door behind him. "I'll be back in four or five days. Have to pick up some materials for another job. Thinking about building a carousel." He asks Pressi, "Have you ever ridden a carousel, lass?"

Bliss (AC23, CMD28, HP78of86) (Cayzle)
Thursday July 5th, 2018 12:54:05 AM

Bliss is so happy to see more of his friends join the WLA. "Sure, if you are a wizard maybe you want to join the Star Tower, or if you are a scholar, the sages, but I still think that for people who want to be heroes, the WLA is the best!"

He is happy to hear Hobie plan to cast Haste more. "Wowsy, I love that spell! You are the best, old friend!"

"My only complaint is this. Did you see the other hero groups at the huge Sargrass fight? Most groups have more people in them. When we go to the WLA, Ima look for more people who maybe would like to join us!"

Pressi (by Kim for Melvin)
Thursday July 5th, 2018 2:53:52 AM

"A carousel? Um I carried a parasol a few times," Pressi answers Samell. She adds, "Please, Murphy's papa, I think we are serious. Making it long lasting is smart, too. Good luck gathering whatever it is you need. We're heading to Angel Springs, so, see you when we get back?" She turns and says to Murphy, "You, druid guy, go talk to those air fellows about the strings. Off with you!"

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood Druid 11 (Kim) HP 85/85
Thursday July 5th, 2018 4:15:54 AM

Murphy offers to lend Kezzem a thousand gold pieces so he may take a bit more of the WLA training now, rather than having to wait until later, so he can get at least as much training as Succotash does at this time. "We have to keep you paladins in parity, y'know."

Also, Murphy tells Pressi, "I think I will pass on the dragon armor. Might slow me up, and take it tough to get the full benefits of cat's grace, so, if you want, go ahead and have the armor fixed up for yourself, love."

======
Murphy answers his father, "All right, let's make it to last, then. I was just... all right, never mind. Make it enduring." "Have a safe trip, Papa. See you soon."

He obeys his sweetheart, summons a small air elemental, explains about the pentatonic scale, and some of the ideas his father mentioned, and asks about the strings. He says his father will be back in about five days, and, if the air elementals have some questions, perhaps they can talk things over with him, or, just wait for it to be set up. He says it will take a while, still, for planning and construction and installation.

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electricity 5
Thursday July 5th, 2018 5:50:57 AM
Upon Hobie’s announcing his plans to use haste in the future, Succotash is both excited and frustrated. He’s happy that Miss Piggy will benefit from the spell but wishes he would have known this before he dropped the gold on his brand new boots of speed. “Oh well”, he says to himself, “If I don’t use them, I can always sell them back to the catacombs”.
Succotash realizes that his years as a solo act, has come to an end, and that he needs to start learning how to lean on his friends, and allow them to do what they do, as well as trust them. He realizes that the fight to save the World, changed him, it made him realize his need for companions to share his quest to eradicate evil, and the feelings of love for the members of Humble’s Sword, that he feels growing inside him, he knows are real. Succotash has no idea what the Wold has in store, but he is excited to see what is to come, and he shares Bliss’s sentiment that more members, would most certainly be welcome.

Time for our heroes to get some rest. - DM Carl
Thursday July 5th, 2018 10:14:22 AM
Some minor drama ensues when Murphy has a rare moment of short-termitis.

The days progress quickly. Progress is made on tearing down the stone circle surrounding the town. With it, the breeze can once again flow through the town. You can almost hear the collective sigh of relief.

A trip is made to Angel Springs to sign up and train with the WLA. Cosimo tags along and is surprisingly good company. Turns out when he's got money in his pocket and isn't recovering from a near-death experience, he's pretty chill. He's handed off to Murphy's prodigious network of kin, and everyone's fairly certain he'll land on his feet in no time.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 21, HP 94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 21, HP 61, CMD 23
Thursday July 5th, 2018 2:46:44 PM
"Why am I more busy and involved now then when a dragon is bearing down on us?" she wondered. "What is it about spending hours needing to tend to every little thing?"

Ok, lets take it one more step at a time.

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

Pressi is about to finalize her choices for the catacombs at the last minute, though the dizzying array of choices fill her with some dread. She figures she may be overthinking it, worrying about +2s to stats and magic weapons when she should be worrying about scrolls, rods and goggles. It's the latter that will probably make her shopping trip.

It's clear that, whether Murphy changes his mind or not, nobody else will, and some people told her that she could get a leather armor choice that would work well enough (but not studded leather). While the extra AC of hide still calls her, she is pretty sure she has made her choice. (And if extra AC is that big of a deal, she could always buy a shield.)

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

Things are otherwise a bit hectic in getting paperwork done. After some hemming and hawwing about whether using money to rebuild the town would make them look good, and be the morally better decision and help the town of course, she decides to agree with the group in putting the money towards the new building.

She also takes a look to see how the growing coven presence (without a building of their own) intersects with such places as the community worship center (which already had to handle a parade of different religious worshippers from Domi to Jamasscus.)

As for Hobie, nothing in particular comes to mind aside from maybe the occasional invisibility or heroism. Rage might be a good buff for some of the paladins. She likewise asks if there are any requests for scrolls or wands besides what she already has. (If not, she may still add a couple of restoration scrolls and a remove fear wand.)

She takes some occasional time to help with Murphy where she can, but her spell list and bodily strength isn't fully suited for the tasks. Besides, she has her own concerns, such as the coven, in mind. She does take some time to check in with the political leadership.

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

It looks like Murphy has things more or less under control with the Badapples and with the bickering women so she mainly just backs them up.

To the women, though, she does think to ask just what they are fighting over and what it is worth. Since they don't seem to be fighting over the affections of any particular person, and since Pressi herself doesn't really engage in this jockeying or consider the "general male affection" that important, she does hope to talk them out of it, or at least to catfight on more dignified grounds.

Otherwise, she takes time to partake in the partying as much as she can, knowing that these moments tend to be fewer than one might hope.

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

Regarding the air spire, Pressi goes out of a sense of obligation and worry about what might happen if they break their word, but she doesn't try to hide how checked out of the process she is. Besides, if the air elementals cared that much about the specifics or length of lasting, they could have said.

If they wanted halfling mind readers, well they could have said for that, too.

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

WLA training for her is quite short.

ADM Kim
Thursday July 5th, 2018 3:25:12 PM

Rough map of granite/obsidian wall around Humble's Ford, with gaps created by Murphy.

Bliss (AC23, CMD28, HP78of86) (Cayzle)
Thursday July 5th, 2018 7:08:39 PM

Bliss posts some signs at the Angel Springs WLA to recruit for heroes to join the group.

He trains and practices his new expert survival skill. Especially tracking by scent in kitty form.

He visits the Catacombs and upgrades his headband and action figure of resistance.

Kezzem (Kim for Brian)
Friday July 6th, 2018 1:12:23 AM
Kezzem hears Murphy offer a loan so he can take a little bit more of the WLA training.

"Here, let me write you an IOU note, Murphy, so you can take me to court if I forget to pay you back. You've got paper and pens, I know, so, lend me those, too, so I can write you the note. Say, do you have invisible ink?"

He accepts the loan, and goes in for some extra training after paying the league the extra funds. "Thought you'd get ahead of me, right, Succotash? No way. This is a race."

Hobie (Kim for Nick)
Friday July 6th, 2018 1:27:40 AM

While in Angel Springs, he goes with Murphy and Cosimo to that music shop. He realizes that he saw Nalfein a few years ago in Humble's Ford, giving someone a noogie. He decides not to bring it up. "So, you are Murphy's brother, right? I think I've seen you in Humble's Ford before. Uh, nice shop here. I picked up a lute a while ago. It's nothing fancy, but I like the sound. Mind if I look around a little? May I try out any instruments?"

If told yes, then he tries out some of the lutes, to see how they sound compared to his own.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 21, HP 94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 21, HP 61, CMD 23
Friday July 6th, 2018 10:57:00 AM
Pressi makes her way to Angel Springs with a bunch of her armor and some dragon leather, in order to purchase the following items.

To sell: +1 Leather Armor, glammered, shadow (price is 1/2 of 7600)

To buy:
+1 dragonhide studded leather armor, glammered, shadow (price is 7870) (DM cleared)
+1 dragonhide buckler (or small light shield) of lesser fortification (price is 4310)
(both of small size for halfling)

(Notes: I am accepting 5% ASF in exchange for another +1 AC, not counting shields. The shield trades more AC for another 5% ASF but I'm not expecting to use it often. The hide armor was a problem because it affected my casting and my rogue abilities.)

Bliss (AC23, CMD28, HP78of86) (Cayzle)
Friday July 6th, 2018 4:45:16 PM
Text of fliers put up by Bliss, written out very carefully in a precise schoolboy's blocky script:

HEROES WANTED
Are you a hero? Or want to be one?
The Adventuring Band known as Humbles Sword
(based in Humbles Ford, Crescent Valley)
is seeking recruits who seek to
fight evil, defend innocents, protect the weak, and have fun!
Contact Bliss or any Humble Sword at the
Woldian League of Adventurers
or at the Humble House, Humbles Ford.

....

Note that Bliss has christened the new group headquarters as "Humble House." We'll see if that sticks!

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electricity 5
Friday July 6th, 2018 5:18:21 PM
“Humble House?” Succotash questions, “Bliss I thought we agreed on “The Sanctuary”, I mean, “Humble House” has a ring to it, so now I’m confused “. “Nice flyer by the way”.

Time for our heroes to get some rest. - DM Carl
Friday July 6th, 2018 6:01:11 PM
Hobie plays some music, Bliss looks for new blood, and Succotash ponders the branding of his new adventuring group.

Pressi wants to have some nice dragonhide armor, but finds The Catacombs unwilling to work with the stuff. Looks like she'll have to find a proper armorsmith in town, or in Angel Springs, perhaps, who can work with the stuff.

OOC: Yea, site's strict on this. Having a dragonhide set of armor made isn't as simple as killing a dragon and dropping coin. You need to actually RP out getting the piece made.

The Unbelievable J.T.T. Zaragosa (AC 24 CMD 22 HP 41) d100=16 ; d20=18 ; d20=18 ;
Friday July 6th, 2018 7:12:46 PM
Zaragosa walks through the pulling his pony behind him. After seeing the flyers, he asks around until he could find this 'Humble House'. He makes his way there and gives the door a good loud *knock knock knock*

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electricity 5
Friday July 6th, 2018 7:46:34 PM
Answering the door of the makeshift headquarters complex, which is in verious states of new construction, a handsome halfling with a charming scar on his left check, wareing full plate armor with Pantheon’s holy symbol emblazoned on the breastplate, answers the door saying, “can I help you?”

The Unbelievable J.T.T. Zaragosa (AC 24 CMD 22 HP 41)
Friday July 6th, 2018 7:57:22 PM
Zaragosa will smile in return. He looks less shiny and glorious than the halfing that greeted him but was covered head to toe in various off magical times including a simple cap, goggles on his forehead and a mithril shirt. "Can you help me? Perhaps, but the greater question is can I help you? Now, standing before you is the Unbelievable J.T.T Zaragosa, escape artist extraordinaire and grandest of adventurers! Perhaps you have heard of me" This is a lie, but more to make one feel like one SHOULD know him, Zaragosa is well aware that you would have never heard of him. I'll include a roll because I am new and have no idea what I am doing. "I am here in answer to the flyer, or perhaps to your group's prayers. Na, I jest. Though I am here to apply to be of your prestigious number. You'll find my locksmith and ability to dazzling escape to be quite useful. Good sir, I may not be a flashy fighter, but I would employ you to examine my skills for yourself. You will not be disappointed." He raddles on giving the speech quickly as though speaking to a crowd. After he is down it takes his cap off and bows respectfully to you.

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electricity 5
Friday July 6th, 2018 8:23:23 PM
“Succotash Slenderstick, Paladin of Pantheon, at your service”, says the charismatic Paladin, “Welcome to the Humble House of Sanctuary, please have a seat while the other members arrive”.

The Unbelievable J.T.T. Zaragosa (AC 24 CMD 22 HP 41)
Friday July 6th, 2018 8:31:21 PM
"a paladin you say! How glorious! I know a wee bit of magic myself but not a spectacular as holy magic. Nice to meet you, Succotash Slenderstick, Paladin of Pantheon," he will enter and take a seat

ADM Kim
Friday July 6th, 2018 9:25:24 PM

Like as not J.T.T. Zaragosa will be directed to Humble's Burrow - the home of Mayor Bingo Bumbleluck, if he asks about 'Humble House.' Or, possibly, the home of 80-year-old Halfred Humble, whose family established the town. However, if he asks about Humble's Sword - then there are a few other places he might be sent.

Most likely to a burrow near the river where some members of Humble's Sword live (and where all members of the Sword are welcome to live), called Humble's Sword Burrow - though one former member of the group used to call it Humble's House. When he knocks on that door, a young halfling woman with a smattering of freckles, firey red hair, and green eyes, with a frame slight but curvy, opens the door. "Yes?" she asks. "How may we help you?"

Behind her stands a hirsute halfling, dense curly dark brown mutton chops adorn the sides of his face, and apparently he just took a large bite of an apple. He steps toward the door, mouth still full as he chews furiously. "H'lo." :: chew crunch chew :: "M Hazl. Thisz 'lorn. Who're hyew?"

The beauty giggles. "Swallow first, then talk, Hazel!" she tells him. She returns her attention to the fellow at the front door. [And assuming JTTZ asks about Humble's Sword] "Ah, you got one of Bliss's flyers, I see. He is such a sweetie. Just don't ever step on his tail. If you're looking for Humble's Sword, well, this is as good a place as any to start. My name is Alouryn, and this goofy boy is my husband, Hazel. The others have been flitting all over the place for the past few weeks. Bliss is playing kitty cat. Pressi is trying to herd her coven, and help Bliss with his, too, and probably trying to tell Murphy to slow down. Some are working on the new place west of town about a 20 minute walk. Murphy is probably digging underground somewhere, or blowing walls down so the town can have a good breeze again. Hobie might be with his Uncle Roscoe, our town constable, or combing Pippa's coat. I've got to teach him how to braid her mane.

A bunch of them were out in Angel Springs, but I think they are all back by now. Succotash is - I don't know. Maybe helping with The Sanctuary of Humble's Sword. That's what the new place is called. Maybe they'll go with Bliss's new name for it. Kezzem is - well, he cracks wise so often, he is probably out pulling someone's leg, or figuring out how to be righteous as a paladin, and still tell jokes. Maybe he is helping an old lady cross the road so she doesn't trip in front of Pirnook's General Store."

Hazel, apple fully chewed and swallowed by now, says, "Slow down, honey. Say, would you like to come in and rest your feet for a while, have a bit of food? Sure as the sun comes up, one of more the current members of the Sword should show up right quick. We used to adventure with them. These days, we help take care of this place for 'em, and are working on getting our family started," he adds with a wink.

Alouryn clears her throat, Hazel laughs and calls out, "Say, Quotiln! Can you bring in an extra plate?" Turning to the blond halfling at the door he says, "You can stable your pony - about 25 feet to the left of the door. One of Murphy's brothers, Samki, is there - he'll take care of your mount, then join us. Don't worry, you don't have to tell us your name until your pony is safe!"

ADM Kim
Friday July 6th, 2018 9:27:10 PM

[Well, that's what happens when a post is interrupted half way through by the Xfinity guy, and then I forget to check to see if anything else showed up on the board.]

Bliss (AC23, HP96) (Cayzle)
Saturday July 7th, 2018 9:24:02 AM
Evidently the new guy saw the note tacked to the front door of the Sanctuary, written with care in a familiar blocky script:

HUMBLE HOUSE
A sanctuary to all.
Be friendly and enter!

Home to the Humble Swords
Welcome!

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, HP 119/119, CMD 24; Rumpus - AC 25, HP 62/62, CMD 24, DR 5/evil, Resist acid 5, cold 5, electricity 5
Saturday July 7th, 2018 3:07:10 PM
"Hey, seriously though, thanks for the loan Murph. Here's a little something to express my gratitude. Consider it interest."

He gives Murphey a platinum "BFF" ring worth 25 gp. "This should help keep you alive, though I think you need to stay within 50 ft. or so of me for it to work.

The ring is for shield other spells. Pressi has already a similar one.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 21, HP 94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 21, HP 61, CMD 23
Saturday July 7th, 2018 6:33:18 PM
Will try one last RP tonight. Need time to do it justice.

Ready to throw in the towel, though. Been a lot of work for one of my lower priorities, with a heightened risk to boot. Throw in yet another ac flank, a 1700 scroll... might be time to say forget it.

If Tricia is looking for a hook, Pressi is headed towards the back of a bar.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 21, HP 94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 21, HP 61, CMD 23
Saturday July 7th, 2018 10:52:03 PM
Had Pressi known the difficulties of turning dragonhide into any form of armor, she would have forgotten it. To be honest, she had agreed to dragonhide armor more out of aesthetics and the desire not to waste (and the vague feeling that this had been a gift from the gods that everyone else turned their nose at) more than any mechanical value. But as she stood at the new bill from the catacombs (1700 per cast of resurrection? Speaking of, she forgot to get the soul gem too.) and contemplating what a 5% ASF might do to the primary caster, she began to second guess not setting the leather on fire.

She supposed that if the gods were to give her the leather, they might also give her some hook upon which she could know what armorer to take it to. But since they did not, she took it upon herself to find an armorer, even at the risk of changing the world itself. (Otherwise, my prior post of taking it to an armorer would have at least triggered a conversation.)

So she used magic and research. Murphy's relatives, Leska's relatives, Roscoe's relatives, even her own. She searched Justicar files and coven files. She asked around the various schools in Humble's Ford and the WLA.

And they led her here. A green unmarked door under a pet store, leading to a secret club that some arcanes hang out in. In the back was allegedly an armorer who's arts were not strictly legal and who was supposedly nuttier than a squirrel with mage hand. But they also claimed he once crafted celestial mithral armor from goldfish. So she told members of the group to call the police if they don't hear from her in an hour, kissed Murphy goodbye, and took off for this bar, a bag of dragonhide in tow.

If this armorer exists and decides to see her, she gives him the same request she gave to the catacombs and above. Until then, she sits at the bar, drinking.

Bliss (AC23, HP96) (Cayzle)
Saturday July 7th, 2018 11:38:37 PM
Who's that sitting next to Pressi? Oh! it's Bliss! How did he get there? The little guy gets around.

"Hey Miss Pressi," he says, sipping a cup of slightly hard cider, "why don't you make that dragonhide into +1 studded leather for Harper? He could use the protection, sure, though I suppose you would call it barding."

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood
Sunday July 8th, 2018 2:16:10 AM

How did that mainly blue-gray little cat, that has on its head by contrast rather sandy colored fur, end up rubbing up against Pressi's leg, and purring up at Bliss? Who then says, "That is not a bad idea Bliss came up with, girlfriend. Say, if no one shows up here, then I'd bet that Hugo Pipeleaf might be able to help you out. He's pretty smart, and so is his wife, Primula."

The kitty adds, telepathically, "We just don't want to throw it away. If you decide not to pursue it, I will - but I want you to have it. I agree that our possession of it is, in a way, a gift. It's just that some gifts are more challenging to manage than others." The cat's telepathic voice is remarkably similar to that of Murphy.

Hobie (Kim for Nick) d20+5=23 ;
Sunday July 8th, 2018 3:05:53 AM

So, Hobie takes the lute offered to him by Nalfein, and sits on the stool to give it a try. [Perform: lute: 23.] Then he places the lute back where Nalfein had taken it down from, and asked, "How was that?"

Hobie (Kim for Nick)
Sunday July 8th, 2018 3:16:30 AM

And... so as to understand Hobie's post above, this was emailed to Nick very early Friday morning:

The one Murphy introduced as Nalfein has a face marred with a few light scars, and carries himself with a bit of swagger. He sizes up the pair his brother brought in, then answers Hobie. "Yeah, look around. Touch to your heart's content. You break, you buy. We have five lutes out here on display. You want I should bring out the specials from back? Tell you what, take a look-see, I'll bring you something special from the back if I can hear you play four chords competently. Don't want to waste our time if you don't know more than three." He takes a middlin'-priced lute down, plucks the strings, tunes one of them which was about a quarter-note flat, then hands it to Hobie. "Try this one first. You can sit that stool there, if you don't want to stand - and, since I haven't strapped this one, I'd prefer you try it that way."

Leska Rose, who is the third oldest sibling among the Leafwin Pipewoods, about 15 months younger than Nalfein (they look to be in their 30's), with cheeks that match her middle name, and a gentle sweetness about her, greeted all warmly as they arrived, kissed Murphy on the cheek, and shook the hands of Cosimo and Hobie. "I'll fix you some tea," she offers. She goes to a large metal urn under which a flame burns. On top stands a small teapot. She takes down five porcelain cups, pours each one about 1/4 full from the small teapot - the liquid looks rich and dark. Then for each cup, she opens a spigot close to the bottom of the urn, and fills the cups to within a small finger's width of the top, the color lightened slightly, and steam rises.

She places a 7" plate full of assorted cookies in the center of a 12" plate. The cups she spaces evenly around the center plate, a small spoon adjacent to each. These she bears to a circular table midway back on the right side, and six chairs around. From behind the counter come a sugar bowl, a jar of honey, and a small pouring glass with what looks like cream inside. Serviettes (napkins) are placed around the table, with small knives, and twin-tined forks.

Hobie should make a perform: lute skill check.
Roll 6-9: "Ah, maybe I'll leave those in the back," says Nalfein.
Roll 10-14: "You wanna try again?"
Roll 15-19: "So, you're not a total novice. You want I should bring you something nicer?"
Roll 20+: "All right, wait right here. Put that lute back careful, right?"

Hobie can reroll once, if he is not satisfied with his first attempt.
If the second roll is not at least a 15: "Practice more. Come back some other day. Not showing you anything from the back now, that's for sure."
If 15: "You want I should bring you something nicer?"
If 20+: "So, you were just warming up. Give me a moment."

On 15-19: Nalfein brings out a masterwork lute (+1 to perform). "Made by my brother, Kember." It is gorgeous, with gold and silver filigree inlays. On 20+: Nalfein brings both the masterwork lute, and one of even higher caliber. "This here our father made, and my sister Selithe added something special to it. You probably can't afford it."

How does Hobie respond? Does he try out the lute(s)?

Leska Rose asks Cosimo, "So, what brings you to Angel Springs?" as she offers him a seat at the table, and takes a seat across from him, setting a cup next to her serviette, she then pushes the tray slightly his direction so he can take what he would like.

The masterwork lute Nalfein values at 110 gp. The other lute he does not name a price for, other than to say, "This one is considerably higher than that."

[And, it is 100% up to Nick, once he returns, as to whether he decides to purchase the Kember lute. -ADM Kim]

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood (Kim) HP 85/85
Sunday July 8th, 2018 3:49:01 AM
Kezzem
Murphy is taken aback at Kezzem's thoughtful gift. "Why, you are most kind, friend," as he accepts the platinum ring, and slips it over a finger. "So, you have its mate? I really appreciate how you've helped out Pressi in that manner. If it's a choice between her and me, please help her, though, all right? And, if it's going to take you down, then take off your ring! I don't want to be the cause of my friends going down - but, in the right circumstances ... I know, I know, I talk to much. Simply, thank you, Kezzem."

Notes and Houses
Murphy thanks Bliss for the note of welcome that was placed. So far, the worker's house and workshop are (unless the DM tells us otherwise) the only edifices on the plot of land - with a fair amount of materials gathered for putting up the next two buildings. [Keep in mind that the workers on our place were pulled off our project, and sent to help prepare the town for the anticipated assault by a mountain and fire elementals, and to remain in town to help them recover from that - so, though plans are generally laid out, most of the work is ahead of us - again, unless our DM tells us* that a miracle of super-fast good-quality construction just occurred.] Next in line is the Guest House - which, I believe, is just starting to go under construction - and can serve as short term housing for us once it's up. And this is from a guy who really wants it to be further along than it is! As it is, we have the Humble's Sword Burrow next to the river in town for good dwelling for the moment - and from the 'ADM Kim' post July 6, 2018 9:25:24 PM, a further description of where people are. If Foreman George and his crew have another three or four weeks (past the end of our current 3-week respite), then our Guest House may be generally ready to move in, with room for us all in very cosy quarters (and by 'all,' I'm thinking adventurers and covens - and we'll want to talk with Hazel and Alouryn to see if they'd like to join us, and also Quotiln). [*Appeal to DM: If you want several more buildings to have been *poofed* into existence, then I am fine with that - really! - I just used to project manage, and have helped on construction sites, and... magic is welcome to speed things up. Otherwise, there's still tons of work to get this place built - and my 'another 3-4 weeks' is highly optimistic.]

So, he asks Bliss if he can prepare a new sign - or modify this one, to read:
HUMBLE HOUSE
A sanctuary to all of good will.
Be friendly and enter!

Future Home of Humble's Sword
Welcome!

Murphy takes particular pains to point out that it is "Humble's Sword" and not "Humble Swords" - but gently takes those pains, and in a kindly fashion :-) Also, he sincerely compliments Bliss on the clarity of his writing style.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 21, HP 94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 21, HP 61, CMD 23
Sunday July 8th, 2018 11:12:27 AM
To Bliss, Pressi says "That... is something I hadn't thought of...."

(Technically, the issue (other than cost) has been that Harper doesn't have a light armor proficiency feat. But if the DM won't let me swap a feat now, I can squeeze in two witch levels early (I'm already due for a witch level next level up) and add it.)

(BTW, I am assuming that I can sell my current armor at half price and still stay at 82K wealth. If my wealth drops and I can't keep buying stuff, then I will keep my current armor.)

So Pressi's choices change to the following

To buy:
+1 dragonhide medium sized studded leather armor bridling (price is 1400)
+1 dragonhide buckler (or small light shield) of lesser fortification (price is 4310)
(both of small size for halfling)

if enough left, and if I can keep up my WBL, I will also order +1 dragonhide leather armor, glammered, shadow (price is 7770), paid for by selling +1 Leather Armor, glammered, shadow (price is 1/2 of 7600)

(I won't bother with the still spell feat or the extra 5% ASF. Too feat starved and I don't think the team can handle the 1/20 missed casts on a regular basis.)

To DM: Sorry if I overstepped my bounds. I actually did try to RP an armor purchase before and it didn't take, so I am trying this one. Feel free to tell me to forget it or give me some idea of what I am supposed to do instead, but I do want this resolved before monday and I still have to complete my catacombs purchase.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 21, HP 94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 21, HP 61, CMD 23
Sunday July 8th, 2018 11:15:33 AM
Also, can I do a quick character surgery on Harper? I'd like to swap out intimidating prowess for light armor proficiency.

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electricity 5
Sunday July 8th, 2018 11:41:01 AM
Succotash offers J.T.T Zaragosa a pint of ale, saying, “The others should be along soon, while we wait, why don’t I tell a wee bit about myself”. At which point, Succotash begins to share his life story: when I first started out as a Paladin, I was asked to lead a assault on a small army of hobgoblins that was attacking the town I was living in at the time, even though we eventually drove back the enemy, we sustained heavy losses, close to half our fighting force, and I was severely injured, which is where I got this scar on my cheek. Anyway, after I recovered, I decided to avoid permanently teaming up with others, and so for most of my career, it’s been just me and my mount, Miss Piggy, she’s a pig. That worked out all fine and good until a few weeks ago when I met the members of Humble’s Sword, I found myself caring for these people, and I have vowed to do what ever I can to help them, even if it means laying down my own life.
If you’re looking to join this worthy group, I can certainly assure you that you won’t be disappointed.

Bliss (AC23, HP96) (Cayzle)
Sunday July 8th, 2018 12:47:01 PM

Bliss, talking to Murphy, reaches up to adjust his upgraded headband of vast intelligence. "You know, Mister Murphy, my old friend, I find that with my improved chapeau, the nuances of grammar no longer elude me. Why are we "Humble's Sword"? We cannot belong to an adjective. We could be "Humility's Sword" I suppose. There was a person named Humble after whom Humble's Ford was named, but we are not his! If we were the town's, we would he "Humble's Ford's Swords" ... but please no."

"I suggest that I am a "Humble Sword" and that we are "Humbles Sword," like passer-by and passers-by. I could compromise on "Humble Swords." Wowsy, at least that would be grammatically correct."

[OOC to Pressi: Armor proficiency is not needed for Harper, unless you want it for roleplay. Rules say "Nonproficient with Armor Worn: A character who wears armor and/or uses a shield with which he is not proficient takes the armor's (and/or shield's) armor check penalty on attack rolls as well as on all Dexterity- and Strength-based ability and skill checks." But masterwork studded leather armor has ZERO armor check penalty, so there is also no non-proficiency penalty!]

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, HP 119/119, CMD 24; Rumpus - AC 25, HP 62/62, CMD 24, DR 5/evil, Resist acid 5, cold 5, electricity 5
Sunday July 8th, 2018 3:10:53 PM
"Don't worry Murph, Pressi seems to be hanging back more in fights. She's not dumb enough to keep running up on things by herself all the time."

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 82/82 AC 27 Touch 18 CMD 29 Hero Points 3 d20+5=18 ; d20+5=6 ;
Sunday July 8th, 2018 4:26:51 PM
Hobie plays a nice tune on his first try, and then picks up a second lute and really fumbles his fingers on the frets.

"I certainly wouldn't call myself an expert, I'm still learning"

He looks over the masterwork lute.

"She's beautiful. I'd love to purchase this. Tell you what, I'll gladly give you the 110 for it, but if I make it 120, could you engrave, here on the back of the neck, the word 'Romita' ? That's what I'm gonna call her."

Hobie gladly takes out his gold, and pays the man, super thankful for his new masterwork Lute. As he leaves, Hobie notices a young boy outside the shop, looking longingly at the instruments through the window.

He stops and chats with the boy, and then takes his old lute out from his bag.
"This is my old lute, I call her 'Lutecille.' I won't be playing her much anymore on account of I just bought this new one. Would you mind taking her off my hands? Could you promise to play her every day, and get real talented? I'll tell you what, I come to this town every so often to train with the WLA, maybe next time I'm here you and me could have a jam session, and if you've really been practicing, I'll buy you one of Nalfein's nice lutes. Deal?"

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 82/82 AC 27 Touch 18 CMD 29 Hero Points 3
Sunday July 8th, 2018 4:46:55 PM
During the downtime, Hobie took the time to scribe the following scrolls:

4x Flame Arrow
4x Haste
2x Fly
2x Tongues
2x Clairaudience/Clairvoyance

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 86/86 AC 23 Touch 16 Flat 19 CMD 28 Hero Points 3
Sunday July 8th, 2018 4:52:54 PM
Updating Header

The Unbelievable J.T.T. Zaragosa (Jairus Houdek) (AC 24 CMD 22 HP 41)
Sunday July 8th, 2018 7:03:00 PM
Zaragosa took the ale happily. "Cheers, Your generosity is most thoughtful," he said while Succotash started his tail. This wasn't quite the interview that Zaragosa was expecting. He was quite surprised by Succotash's openness, though he took the paladin's attitude as a good sign. Zaragosa made sure to interact with Succotash story with brief enthusiastic responses such as "how terrible", "that's amazing", and "very interesting".

In the end, Zaragosa was nothing but wide smiles. "Fascinating, and that is only a summation of all the stories you have to tell! I would love to hear more. Thank you for sharing, noble Succotash Slenderstick, Paladin of Pantheon. I have never seen combat as you have described and only once have I meet a group worth travelling with, but never with a group adventurers. If this group is half as great as your words imply, then I fear it is I, as Unbelievably talented as I am, who may be found wanting. I am capable while in a fight, but most of my abilities lie elsewhere" Zaragosa was genuine in his attitude, but he was purposeful in expressing it openly. Complementing others was always a good first impression after all. He also thought this group might be as good as the paladin said, Zaragosa might as well be honest with his level of strengths and weaknesses.

Bliss (AC23, HP96) (Cayzle)
Sunday July 8th, 2018 8:27:41 PM
A young tomcat wanders by and changes into a young tom halfling.

"No! No!" says the little guy, laughing. "My name is Bliss, not Tom!"

He sticks out his hand to JTT. "Pleezed to meetcha! I'm a Humble Sword. That's what we call ourselves. Are you here to join up? Come on over and sit down for the interview."

Bliss finds a couple chairs and a huge plate of food. A second trip sees Bliss bring over mugs for JTT, Sir Succo, and himself.

"Dig in! Anyone who applies gets a free meal, even if we do not take you! Just water cause we gotta be serious."

"First off, do you promise to protect those weaker than you and do heroic good deeds as best you can?"

Second, are you tough enough? A newbie fresh out of Maplehurst could say yes to the first question, but if they get killed by a magic missile or never fought an orc or a giant, well, that's just sad when they die right away, you know."

He pauses to give the new guy a chance to answer.

"Whelp that's all the questions I got. Sir Succotash, you got anything you want to ask?"

[assuming that the replies was more or less fine, which I'm sure they will be ...]
"Welcome aboard!"

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, HP 119/119, CMD 24; Rumpus - AC 25, HP 62/62, CMD 24, DR 5/evil, Resist acid 5, cold 5, electricity 5
Sunday July 8th, 2018 8:49:12 PM
Kezzem greats the newcomer.

"What's this, another one? And Succo's vetting you? He literally just joined himself. Man, I still think of Hobbie as the new guy."

"So what's your deal pal? Please tell me your not another paladin. We already got one (pointing to himself) and spare (pointing to Succo)."

Kezzem activates detect-evil on the newcomer. When you have a detect-evil-hammer, everything looks like a nail. An evil nail. In need of smiting.

The Unbelievable J.T.T. Zaragosa (Jairus Houdek) (AC 24 CMD 22 HP 41)
Sunday July 8th, 2018 10:41:42 PM
Zaragosa shakes Bliss hand with a smile. "Glad to meet you, I am J.T.T. Zaragosa." He follows Bliss then takes a seat, bringing his Ale with him. He takes a plate and says with a smile, "This generosity is legendary! I thank you very much!"

He listens to the first question and answers it with enthusiasm and glee "Always and forever. I admit when I was young and poor I may have stolen to survive but now I have always tried to treat my fellow person with respect and stick up for those that cannot for themselves."

Zaragosa's toned changed to answer the second question. It took away any hint of a cavalier manner, "I am a better fighter than most. I grew up on the streets and recently have undergone many adventures. However, among legends, like most folk who have gone through as many adventures as myself, I may seem like I have a glass jaw. I am particularly good at finding a weak point when the enemy least expects it, but other than that I more support a fight then do the most damage. Among new adventures, I am a legend in battle. Among legends, I am ok. I can handle my own."

Zaragosa lightens up and smiles as he greets Kezzem. "Greetings, good Paladin." He then turns to address Succotash, Bliss and Kezzem. "I am a talented escape artist, master locksmith, and have been trained in bardic magic. I know encouraging and healing magic. I can disable any lock or trap. I can escape any hold or cage. I most certainly can hold a crowd attention. I will admit I have an overblown ego, but I give no lie when I say you will find me far from useless."

There is not evil aura on any of his gear. Zaragosa is Chaotic Good. Not even a thief

Talia (JonPaul W) HP 68/68
Sunday July 8th, 2018 11:36:41 PM
A rather tall halfling knocks on the door of the "Humble's Sword" with a poster gripped in one hand and her WLA badge proudly displayed on the strap of her stylish overalls. With backpack afixed over one shoulder, she patiently awaits a response while wondering if anyone is actually home. "Gosh I hope this is the right place," she thinks to herself as she waits. "It would be great to adventure with more than a party of one!" she muses to herself.

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 86/86 AC 23 Touch 16 Flat 19 CMD 28 Hero Points 3
Monday July 9th, 2018 1:41:41 AM
(confused about the timing of all this, but I think Succo and Bliss were also at the WLA place with us right? So this interview is happening at a different time than the trip to the music shop, so Hobie could be there as well?)

Hobie goes to the door and meets Talia, "Hello! Welcome! I assume you are here because of the sign that was posted. We are currently conducting an interview, but if you could sit right here we'll be with you in a matter of moments. Help yourself to some coffee or tea." Hobie gestures to the pot of hot water that has been set out for the guests, along with some tea bags and a french press.

He goes in to the interview with JTT

"You use the past tense when you talk about stealing, but you certainly have the look of a thief. What confidence can we have that you'll not rob us all blind when we turn our backs? Kezzem and Tash, what does your evil radar say about this guy?"

After the interview with JTT

Hobie returns to where Talia is waiting "Okay, we are ready for you now, please come in."

He gestures to a chair for Talia to sit in

"Tell us about yourself Talia, what's your story? Why do you want to join us, and what is it about yourself that might be of use to our group. And also let me begin by saying that if you are a Paladin we are quite full up. That doesn't mean you are automatically disqualified of course, just that you'll have to impress even more to warrant a spot." He leans in close to where only Talia can hear him "Frankly, between you and me, Kezzem is kind of a strange dagger throwing Paladin, and I'm more partial to the classic sword and shield type. But he has saved my hide on more than a few occasions."

ADM Kim - just shy of two weeks ago, when the party arrived in Angel Springs - for Hobie
Monday July 9th, 2018 1:52:13 AM
"Another ten? Sure," Nalfein agrees. "That'd be Leska who does that for you. Hey, sis, Hobart here wants something engraved on the back of Kember's lute. So, Cosmos, how are the cookies?"

Leska Rose smiles indulgently at Nalfein, then speaks to Cosimo and Hobie. "Don't think he doesn't know your names, lads. He likes to provoke. Yes, Hobie, I was speaking with Cosimo here. What would you like engraved? If you don't mind, the engraving itself need not be very deep, and I have a good paint to fill it in." She makes certain that she has 'Romita' spelled correctly, and positioned just where he wants it. "Oh, on the neck? Do you know someone by this name?" she asks, looking up as he answers.

She has him select a color, or colors, for her to use - she has oil paints, and can cover a full spectrum. Even can include gold, silver, or copper flecks. "It's five above what my brother quoted if I use flecking. After the oil dries, I coat it with a lacquer to protect the paint. Don't worry - it blends in with the stain that is already in the wood after a few hours." She lets him know that she can have it ready when the shop opens in the morning. [As Murphy brought Cosimo, and Hobie, to WinWood Music and Toys on the day the group arrived in Angel Springs to get the WLA training, that should not be a problem, right? - this is a bit of back-step in the time-line.]

When Hobie comes to pick up the fine lute the next morning, he sees Cosimo there at the circular table, talking with with Nalfein, and eating some sort of egg-turnip-onion concoction. Cosimo raises a hand acknowledging Hobie.

Leska shows him her work - it is crisp and elegant, and asks Hobie if it meets his expectations. If so, she places it into an oilcloth carrying bag, and includes a small cloth pouch. "An extra set of strings is included, complements of WinWood. The bag should keep rain and such off of it."

Miss Leska provides him a receipt
Sold to Hobie Browncloak, of Humble's Sword:
1 Masterwork Lute, crafted by Kember Leafwin Pipewood, and engraved by Leska Rose L.P. for 110 gp (or 115 if he goes for the gold-flecked paint)
[Email your DM with this information]

She graciously thanks Hobie for his patronage. Nalfein walks over. "So, Murph was telling me yesterday about what a big help you are to Humble's Sword. You should change the name of the group to Humble's Sword and Arrows, from what I've heard." He gives him a firm clap on the shoulder. "I like people who take good care of my kin. Come around any time, Hobie - y'hear?"

ADM Kim
Monday July 9th, 2018 2:07:14 AM

[OOC: Gang - so as to forestall the abundant confusion as to locale and timing, how about this - subject to DM ratification? Foreman George and his crew have completed the workshop and the workers housing, and have laid the foundation, one story stone walls, and are about to begin framing for the second and third floors of the Guest House - which will be our first dwelling. For some reason they've already temporarily placed the oak front door - which helps make sense that there is a door to knock upon. We've been asked to come and take a look, and approve of the work so far. Hazel, Alouryn, and Quotilyn are bringing food over - and directed people who came to our current dwelling standby, Humble's Sword Burrow, by the river, to instead go out to the Humble House, A Sanctuary, soon to be the new home of Humble's Sword? We don't need to mix up whether we're meeting in Angel Springs, or all over the map in HF. Sound all right? Hope so. P.S.: Murphy, Succotash, Bliss, et al, can discuss the group's name all they wish, and let the best idea be sorted. Phew!]

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood (Kim) HP 85/85
Monday July 9th, 2018 2:39:49 AM

About this time, a 16' tall earth elemental emerges from the ground at U28 on The Sanctuary of Humble's Sword map. He bears a stone 6 feet long, about 2-1/2 feet wide, and six to ten inches thick. He walks toward the Guest House front door, but sets it down shy of that at T32. In a deep, earthy voice he intones to one of the nearby workers, "Good for a front step, after stone carving." He steps away to U31, moves his hands to cast a spell, says a short phrase, and water rains down upon him from 30' in the air. He repeats the gestures and words several times, as dirt washes off of him. Then he steps away from the puddle, and wildshapes into a halfling.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood steps in the room, sees some of the Sword team there, as well as a few new people. "Hey. Welcome to this skeleton of a dwelling." He squeezes the corner of his shirt out on to the dirt floor. "I'm Murphy. I suppose you saw Bliss's signs. Someone want to fill me in on what's going on? Or shall we wait until the others get here, so we don't have to do it several more times?"

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 86/86 AC 23 Touch 16 Flat 19 CMD 28 Hero Points 3
Monday July 9th, 2018 3:54:22 AM
Time jump back to Angel Springs

"The gold paint would be perfect. Thank you. "Romita" is a name that is very important to me. I'd prefer to leave it at that."

Hobie gladly pays the 115gp.

ooc: John Romita Jr. was one of the creators of the comic book character The Prowler--Hobie Brown.

Also ooc: For our new folks, if you are confused by the strange times at which I often post, I live in Europe. So my time schedule is kinda wacky for Americans.

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electricity 5
Monday July 9th, 2018 5:51:53 AM
“Hey Murphy, nice rock, I can see what you mean, I think it will make a splendid front step”, Succotash declares. “Thanks for sharing your history, and skill set with us mr. Zaragosa, I look forward to seeing your skills in action, and am especially loving the idea of some bardic magical buffs, oh and by the way, do you do any musical performances, because it would be fun having another musician in the group, I play the drum, mediocrely, and Hobie here plays the lute”.
Turning to Talia, Succotash asks, “As Hobie said, could you share a little about yourself, and don’t worry if you’re a Paladin, I for one don’t have a problem with that”. He then detects evil on Talia.

The Unbelievable J.T.T. Zaragosa (Jairus Houdek) (AC 24 CMD 22 HP 41)
Monday July 9th, 2018 9:41:58 AM
Hobie's words insulted Zaragosa and he let his face show it fully. "I have a 'Look of a thief'? Good sir, your words hurt me deeply but I am sure that is what a thief would say. I forgive your harmful comment, but I plead you do not call me 'thief' again. You all seem fantastically above me and I would be grateful to be in your number, but I will not let my name be dredged through the mud.

"I am a former slave turned boy-on-the-streets. I stole bread to live. I knew of no one way but a good man found me and taught me better. I have stolen since then and I will probably steel again. Yes, you heard me, good sir. Yet I will never steel for my profit. I will never steel for your profit, this groups profit, or for anyone's purse. I will make the call you paladins cannot. I will steal if the result will save someone life or set a captive free. You, nor anyone else will stop me. As for your own gear and coin, I would never touch it. I live to make an honest living. I will entertain for coin, I will even beg for coin, but I will starve to death before I will steal for my own benefit. I plead if you'll take me, trust me, and do not call me a thief.

"I give you my word and I sear in my name and in the name of my trainer, Billie Valencia the Great, that I am not here to rob you."

Zaragosa knew in his heart the man didn't mean to insult him. He didn't quite know why he took it so personally. Perhaps everyone else was so welcoming that the Hobie's words surprised him. Though he hated being called 'thief', but he wished he wasn't so brash with his word. He wished he didn't list 'slave' as his former occupation.

He calmed himself a bit to answer Succotash, "I'm afraid not, my bardic magic comes from my words. I tell stories and act performances. I cannot join a band and my bardic practice makes me.... a bit wordy... but I'm sure you all have figured this out for yourself. Believe me, I can keep my mouth shut when the time is needed."

The Unbelievable J.T.T. Zaragosa (Jairus Houdek) (AC 24 CMD 22 HP 41)
Monday July 9th, 2018 9:42:55 AM
(OOC wait wait wait, so the BARD is the only one here that DOESN'T play an instrument?)

Bliss (AC23, HP96) (Cayzle)
Monday July 9th, 2018 11:32:57 AM

Bliss says, "I used to dance, but i gave that up to be a kitty cat."

"Well, I've heard enough. You're in, Mister JTT. Have a seat and help us interview the next applicant."

Talia (JonPaul W) HP 68/68
Monday July 9th, 2018 2:23:01 PM
"Hello, nice to meet fellow adventurer's and well as fellow halflings. As I have already kindly been introduced I am Talia, am from the area, I believe, and I've been spending my time tracing down my family tree. See, I know I must be from the area...as I am the same race...but my memory eludes me as to which clan I actually belong too. Oh, I'm also have a knack for mystical magical things. And I love Purple!"

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 21, HP 94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 21, HP 61, CMD 23
Monday July 9th, 2018 3:29:18 PM
"Well, if you are looking for family trees, you might as well start with the nuts," a voice called from the back hole waiting for a window.

A black haired halfling's head popped up, staring at the two newcomers. "My, such interest in everyone. I think every staffing decision thus far was simply whether you could just stand us. Hold on, coming in...."

With a quick hop over the small wall, the rest of her can be seen. A small halfling in armor, she seemed completely wrapped in chains and metal, a holy symbol of the Crones around her neck. A few spells cleaned off her time from the garden.

"Pressi Silverglove. Unabashed thief, outsider sorta undead witch, and your healer of the evening so tip nicely. Over there sunning herself is Harper. Just checking out the garden areas and not at all divining you six ways from sunday. If you have any questions, I barely care. Ok, see you around, probably."

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood (Kim) HP 85/85
Monday July 9th, 2018 4:03:39 PM
"Wait, wait, wait, Bliss. What? Hello - you are JTT? I'm Murphy. Just got done doin' some work - sorry for the wet clothing. And, hello, Talia - well met. Sorry, folks, no disrespect at all intended in what I'm about to say."

Murphy drags over a piece of lumber and takes a seat, running his fingers through his damp and sandy colored hair. "Bliss, we decide these things as a group. It's not for you to say, prior to consultation from the others, whether someone joins, or does not. Now, we'll likely agree with you, once all is said and done.

"That brings up another matter you have raised. From day one, we have been called 'Humble's Sword.' As a group at the time we discussed whether to use 'Sword' or 'Swords' as the designation. We decided on the singular, and in this case, collective noun. As a group of individuals, bonded together into as cohesive a group as we can make it, we together serve as defense for Humble's Ford. The group of us form the Sword - a weapon to defend our community, our valley, and, at times, the Wold.This is not really a grammatical problem. The group known as Humble's Sword defends, and in some ways represents, Humble's Ford.

"And why 'Humble's' rather than 'Humble'? Because our name represents and recognizes our group's origin, and our home. We live in Humble's Ford. And we are Humble's Sword. Now, if you want to lobby to change the name of our group, you are free to do so. Now, proper humility can be a virtue. And I pray that we each maintain a measure of humility as we serve each other, and our people. Yes, be a humble member of Humble's Sword. I hope to be so, and that each of us is. All right, I know, I'm talking too much all ready. So, I'll stop.

"Except for this - Bliss, you are amazing. And I am happy you are taking initiative - I love it when members of our group show leadership. Look at what your signs have done - looks like we have two people who may have what it takes to join up with us. I say 'may' - because I have not yet really heard much of their stories. Let's get everyone here, and give everyone a fair shake. Does that sound fair?"

Just then Pressi pops in. "Hi."

He turns to Talia, and says, "Purple is a beautiful color."

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood (Kim) HP 85/85
Monday July 9th, 2018 4:07:54 PM

Murphy listens to Pressi, then says, "Well, she's kind of right. Sure, let's hear what you can do - but, if you want to give us a try, I'm game. I know, I just contradicted what I told Bliss. I must be a hypocrite. And a busy one at that."

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 86/86 AC 23 Touch 16 Flat 19 CMD 28 Hero Points 3
Monday July 9th, 2018 4:31:41 PM
to JTT "I can see I struck a nerve, I didn't mean to offend, but I'm no stranger to thievery myself. I've met a lot of guys who claimed to be reformed, and I don't have the fancy evil radar like the Pallies. I can see in your eyes that you aren't a thief. Welcome to the Sword."

Hobie laughs heartily at Murphy
"Well thanks for the longwinded explanation of our name. Nobody gave me that when I signed up, I had to just figure it out with context. Then again, I never actually signed up, Roscoe just told me to help you defeat that necromancer.

He thinks really hard for a moment and then adds "You know, I don't think I ever really found out why exactly we were fighting that guy. Other than the fact that he was creating zombies in our town and such."

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 86/86 AC 23 Touch 16 Flat 19 CMD 28 Hero Points 3
Monday July 9th, 2018 4:33:47 PM
ooc: Jon Paul, can you add the link to your character sheet? I'm curious to see what kind of character Talia is.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, HP 119/119, CMD 24; Rumpus - AC 25, HP 62/62, CMD 24, DR 5/evil, Resist acid 5, cold 5, electricity 5
Monday July 9th, 2018 4:53:32 PM
To JTT: "We used to have a roguish-bard like you. He told the weirdist stories."

To Murph: "If he dies and comes back as a paladin, I'm out of here."

After Pressi enters: "No offense Press, but you've gotten a lot weirder since we first met. I remember when you used to just smack people with your fists."

After Murph explains the origin of their name. "I don't think that was ever explained to me, but then, I don't always listen because I'm not sure if you noticed, but you do tend to talk quite a bit, I just figured it was Sword caused it rhymed."

To Hobie: "You mean creating zombies was not a good reason for you? That's like, top 3 reasons to fight someone, after killing ones family and correcting people who don't use whom correctly."

Talia (JonPaul W) HP 68/68
Monday July 9th, 2018 4:53:52 PM
OOC: Someone remind me how to post the link . Gosh I feel so silly right now.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood (Kim) HP 85/85
Monday July 9th, 2018 5:19:44 PM

Like this (but change the { to [ and the } to ] ) - and, of course, give the real URL which is her character sheet location, rather than the phony google link I gave:

{link href="https://docs.google.com/etc.etc.filename"}Talia{/link} (Jon-Paul) AC, HP, CMD, & so forth

That should show up as
Talia (Jon-Paul) AC, HP, CMD, & so forth

The Unbelievable J.T.T. Zaragosa (Jairus Houdek) (AC 24 CMD 22 HP 41)
Monday July 9th, 2018 5:54:39 PM
Zaragoza gave Hobie a bow, "I hope my outburst was not out of line. Perhaps your word hurt more than I thought. I thank you for your acceptance and will try to be more understanding in the future. I am honoured to be in your number."

Zaragosa greets Murphy with a smile. "It is good to meet you Sir Murphey. I am grateful to hear about your group and delighted to join it."

Turning to Kezzem while continuing his smile. "I am neither a rogue and hardly a bard. I do know some roguish talents as I can pick a lock but most of that is for show or good. I also know only a few bardic spells. Thank you good, noble sir for letting me in the guild"

To bliss, Zaragosa said, "I will endeavour to be worthy of the group."

He then sat down and listened to Talia speak and let others speak to her

{link href="http://bit.ly/2KKFROD"}Talia{/link} (Jon-Paul) AC 22, HP 72/72, CMD 18
Monday July 9th, 2018 5:57:08 PM
OCC: Here's Talia!

Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 22, HP 72/72, CMD 18
Monday July 9th, 2018 6:05:05 PM
OOC: Ok, so I had cataract surgery last year...I can see!

ADM Kim
Monday July 9th, 2018 7:18:30 PM
DMs Carl and Ken have asked me to DM for the next few days, as Ken works on final measures to kill us all. I mean, to finish up the next module. So, through Wednesday or thereabouts, I'll handle DM issues here. This will give our characters an extension to 'downtime' - figure another 3 weeks - but our next adventure hook should be introduced later this week. Pressi's dragonhide saga should be dealt with in the interim. More building on the compound? What have you. Will post late tonight (or wee hours of the morning) as the official (a)DM post.

Now, continue as you were... -Kim

ADM Kim
Tuesday July 10th, 2018 5:37:58 AM

Winding up three weeks of downtime following the battle with Sarr - the spirit and Power of the Sargrass in the southern continent, the adventurers engage in various pursuits. Amid visits to the Catacombs, training with the WLA, helping Humble's Ford with some of the residual effects of recent events, the party ends up at the locale of their soon-to-be new homestead.

Pressi diligently tries to find someone to craft & magic the dragonskin for her. And cracks wise with the team, and the newcomers. [b]Kezzem recalls how it used to be she would just punch people.

Bliss does some catting around. He places himself in charge of a new recruiting campaign - and it appears to pay off, as two newcomers inquire into joining with with the group. He gives Pressi some counsel regarding the dragonhide armor. Aside from some discussions about nomenclature with Murphy, he seems to be having a great time.

Kezzem and Succotash both check over J.T.T. Zaragoza and Talia to see if they evidence an evil aura. Neither does so at the moment. Hobie adds a measure of interrogation and challenges, some of which Sr. Zaragoza finds disconcerting, but he responds, and things seem to get smoothed out. Talia offers that she has a knack for magic, loves Purple!, and is trying to track down her family. She knows she they must be in this general area, but looks to find someone who might help her.

Murphy locates a solid stone to serve as front step to the Guest House. Kezzem and Hobie express thanks for his explanation of how Humble's Sword got its name.

Looks like the group has even more free time on their hands, as no word of stirrings or trouble abroad has reached their ears. It's as if the Wold is trying to catch its breath after the bloodweed menance was resolved.

====== Feel free to skip, if you wish, any sections following that do not pertain to your character - but EVERYONE should read the 'Foreman George' section, as all are there to hear him ========

ADM Kim - Air Elemental Spire
Tuesday July 10th, 2018 5:40:34 AM
Air Elemental Spire
Papa Samell, head of WinWood Music and Toys, returned from his trip. Took him seven days rather than the 4 or 5 he had estimated. He stops by where the old communal house was, currently being transformed by Foreman George and the members of Humble's Sword. "Hello, all. Looking for Murphy and Pressi, and anyone else interested in the tall white spire for the air elementals to play around."

When found, he says he had time to work through several issues, and believes he is ready to move ahead on making the spire. He unrolls two scrolls, one long with detailed drawings and notations, the other a bill of materials and estimated costs. "I'm not charging for this, other than the right to place my name on the monument, and what I have to pay for some of the materials, and a few experts who don't work for free.

"Trying to get as many volunteers as I can, and I'm asking for donations - I'm telling 'em it might help put our town on the map, in bigger print. I've been attending regular over with the Ffloy folks. Some are interested in helping. Biggest material expenses are enough wood bending and some metal work for the frame, silk ropes, and a special permanent paint from Plateau City. The latter is going to be two thousand gold. Worth every coin. Paint it on, then heat to high temperature. With flames. When it cools down, it's a pearly white, fire resistant, pretty much weather resistant, and they say it lasts, theoretically, for hundreds of years. Though they've only tested it for about 140 years so far. Passed down from alchemist to alchemist. Said they can have the amount I asked for ready in a fortnight. I brought a small sample, enough for a mockup.

"This week I plan to build a scale model of the whole thing, mold and all. Oh, all that clay you made from the tops of the walls - we'll use much of that, too."

ADM Kim - Hobie's New Lute
Tuesday July 10th, 2018 5:42:06 AM
Hobie's Lute Romita [backstep to Angel Springs]
Apologies - the cost of the masterwork lute, with the gold-flecked painted engraving on the neck, was 125 gold pieces, rather than the 115 I mistakenly placed in a prior post... but it is beautiful, what with the gold and silver filigree, and rich tones - both musical, and in the choice of woods. Again, +1 to Perform: Lute skill checks.

Now, the boy Hobie spoke with outside the shop. He learns his name is Patter. Patter Spolens Tablemaker. He is simply flabbergasted at the gift Hobie offers him. He finally accepts it. He puts his fingers on the frets, and plays a somewhat discordant chord. "Oops." He tries again. Not much better. "The bards know how to play, but I don't, mister. Can you show me how to make a few good sounds?" He asks for Hobie's full name. He says he knows where the WLA is. A cousin is a member. He will leave his name and where he lives with his cousin to leave for Hobie the next time he comes in to the city.

After the boy goes on his way, Nalfein comes out the door and says, "Well, Hobart, you've certainly won my sister's heart. She melts at kind deeds. Don't get the wrong idea, though. She's not for you. She just likes what you did. See you around, sometime."

ADM Kim - Pressi's Quest
Tuesday July 10th, 2018 5:43:13 AM
Pressi's armor
Pressi does learn that Hugo Pipeleaf of the Slings and Arrows shop knows of someone who can help with the magicking of the armor, and he himself has the skills to fashion the leather armor for her, and a small shield, or studded leather for her leopard, Harper, with the skins she let him see. The costs come to what she estimated in the Catacombs, the time is "a week or so, with a couple of fittings. The thing is, the person who offered to magick it for you is charging the standard price, plus a future favor. I asked what the favor was, and she said that would be between her and you. And she doesn't want to meet you face to face." He shakes his head. "Takes all kinds, I reckon."

ADM Kim - Humble House / The Sanctuary / Compound: Foreman George
Tuesday July 10th, 2018 5:48:10 AM
Foreman George, his crew, and the compound
The foreman the town provided out of gratitude to the adventurers lets them know that he wants to take an extra two days to extend the stone base of the Guest House half again, so it covers the main floor and a good part of the floor above. The balance of the three story house will be timber framed, and will protrude about 2-1/2 feet beyond the stone wall. He also proposed a covered area, 10' high, for a little outdoor area to seat perhaps ten or so halflings out of doors, but also in the shade, at the NW corner of the building, with timber frame jutting out over that. "After that, with my crew focused, we can finish the guest house in maybe two weeks, except for interior detail work. If you want it up quickly, if some of you could help, it might speed things."

"While most of us are working on that, I can have my stonemasons lay the foundation and walls for the stables, then either the barn or the warehouse. With extra help, and a few more hands, as some finish the guest house, we can get at least two of the three buildings up by the time it's finished, then start on the next one. Might I suggest the stables and warehouse first, then the barn?"

George, who has pouch of tobacco from which he customarily chews as he thinks, says, "With the plans you drew up for the multipurpose meeting building, with what you call 'moduler' insides - shifting walls and such, that will take more time. Not something I've ever built before," he admits.

"For the fountains, the wells - that is something you might be able to tell us about, Mister Murphy, since you've gone digging all over the place. And you might want to get some religious folks out to figure what your plans are for the shrines. For the archery range, just a few spots need smoothing out, then plant the sort of grass you want. For about 25 gp that can be ready, except for nicely grown lawn, in a week. Got me a few workers in Hovel to bring in good at that sort of thing - leveling and such, and laying down a consistent surface.

"Also, some of my men are shy about getting near the two oaks. Not used to trees that can move, and ask them questions about their intentions."

"Ah, last thing, for the moment - that big stone thing you want in the middle - that's for you all to do the bulk of the work on. Huge shaped stone projects are not my specialty. I can do, and oversee, regular stone work no problem. I can help you work in things like plumbing, ventilation, some hidden spots and the like, and make sure your plans look structurally sound."

===============

What does the party wish to do? Again, ~3 weeks of activity, squeezed in between now and the Thursday DM post by Ken.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood (Kim) HP 85/85
Tuesday July 10th, 2018 6:21:31 AM

Murphy calls a meeting of all hands. "All right, friends, we have now an opportunity. There seems to be a paucity of people who need rescuing, or giants to fight, or taxidermonecromancers to defeat.

"So, how about we pursue a bit of domestic tranquility, by engaging in strenuous activities which are far from tranquil, and get this place built up? We've got the general plans here. Ask me questions if you'd like more details. Now, except what is already built, these plans are not cast in stone. Well, sure, some are built of stone. What I mean is, we can change things, if you make a good case for us to do so.

"Are you willing to work with the builders, and accelerate the utility of this place? For now, what will be the future Guest House, is going to be the Everyone House. The Humble House, if you will. I dibs a top floor bedroom. If you don't want to help finish this building, there's plenty more work. Gardens and small orchards to plant. Wells and fountains to make. A water slide for fun and refreshment. Shrines to make. Most of them are slated for the NE corner, but, if you'd like one elsewhere, let's talk.

"There is the Archery Range. The Practice Arena. Barn, stables. Oh, a Ritual House. Is 20'x20' large enough? I'd like that to be made of good hardwood, finely crafted. Witches - your input. Religious folk - your ideas.

"Oh, George didn't mention this, but he and I talked about making the ceilings of most buildings at least 8' high. That way biguns can visit and not crack their heads. The Multipurpose Building will have very high ceilings. 20, maybe 25 feet high.

"Maybe we can tuck a burrow in some spot."

Murphy takes a break from talking to hear what people have to say.

After some discussion he adds, "Moisture is beginning to return to the soil, but, unaided, it will take more time for the land that was so parched to find its water level again. I found where an underground stream ran, but it's just a trickle now. I will do what I can to speed it up. I did find a spring about 180' down, in the NE corner - not too far off from where a well and a fountain are planned. There are some open areas underground too. Caves, I mean. The topsoil goes way down. Lots of rocks below that. I mean, there are rocks all over the place, but more as one goes deeper. Found what I think is bedrock at about 450'."

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood (Kim) HP 85/85
Tuesday July 10th, 2018 7:00:44 AM

"If I could cast Control Weather, I would make it rain. But it might be a while before I can cast that, and a scroll would be 2,275 gp. I can cast create water all day long - but our soil is also affected by adjacent soil all around Humble's Ford.

"Maybe we could all just pray for rain. And I'll make it shower all over the place, about 220 gallons per minute. I'll spend maybe an hour a day making baby showers all over the place." Then his face turns red. "I mean little showers, not the kind where you buy gifts for a little baby." 13,200 gallons per hour, or about 1650 cubic feet, or 99,000 pounds. He also conjures some water elementals, and chats with them about how to improve the water situation in the area - both in the compound, and throughout the town.

The druid says it's fine with him if George extends the stone walls up to about 12 or so feet above the ground for the Guest House. He consults with the stone mason on the front step to the guest house.

He contributes 700 gp to his father for purchasing materials for the air spire, and asks his friends if they would like to contribute.

"If someone wants that archer range up soon, well, just give Foreman George 25 gold," he recommends to his party members, especially who use a bow or crossbow.

Over the three weeks, he digs wells. He adds one at G16 (Master 10ft View). He discusses fountain technology with George, as the foreman did say he knows plumbing. He chats about the fountains with the water elementals, too, asking if they would like to frolic in a fountain from time to time.

"Who wants to design the water slide?" Murphy puts out to the group.

He gathers and stacks stones here and there, especially where they are needed for building materials.

He spends time terraforming, casting the spell Move Earth.

He buys a beehive from a local farmer, and carefully, gently transfers it to his apiary (AI220).

He plants trees. Gardens.

Working for a day or so with his father on the mock up, at an appropriate time he casts mud to rock, then helps his father remove the various little plugs from the mold which are for the musical tones, and helps him polish, then paint. He asks Talia if she knows some fire spells, such as burning hands, to help with the paint finishing. He is most pleased with the pearly white, hard, resistent surface.

Though every day he offers up prayers, one day a week he spends in worship services. Eberyon. Ma'ab. Flower. Ffloy with his father. Pantheon. et al.

And one day a week he does what he can to help the town. Knocking down more of the encircling walls if they wish, or other activities. He adds a few water spots in the underground tunnels. One day he plans to extend the tunnel system further, but not at this time. He already completed what he had planned for the tunnels a few weeks ago.

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electricity 5
Tuesday July 10th, 2018 10:12:07 AM
“I’m no expert in building, and such”, Succotash offers, “But please point me to where any heavy lifting is required, or other such work, and Miss Piggy and I will get it done!”

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 21, HP 94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 21, HP 61, CMD 23
Tuesday July 10th, 2018 10:48:41 AM
Timeline = I give up. I'm just treating this like sitcom timelines. You know how some Friends episodes have one plotline that lasts days and a second one that lasts half an hour but they still intersect? That's what is going on here.

Armor Plotline

"Okay, look, I don't want to tell you how to do your job," Pressi began slowly to her shady contact. "But it seems to me like your adding an extra cost and not giving me anything in return above and beyond what I can get elsewhere. If you want me to sell my soul, you've got to at least sweeten the pot. Better price, lower ASF, a bowl of candy, something. Or maybe a favor for a favor if we're going the no questions asked route.

"Also, you should know that if you don't want me to start digging, just tell me she's in the bathroom. Ooh, mysterious stranger hiding her identity. Surely an adventuring heroine with a ton of divination spells and rogue skills will just let this go. Domi, maybe I should be the one taking over the world. Clearly, I'd be better at it...."

Pressi at this point will just go back and accept the deal from Hugo Pipeleaf. "A couple of trips, huh. Good thing I've got shadow walk now."

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

"Ok, ok, I'll do what I can for construction, but can't do much. There is something that I've been waiting to do for a long time now...."

Pressi casts alter self (human) on herself and animal growth on Harper, among other spells and armor effects.

Aside from that, there isn't too much that Pressi can do, but she can fly for hours, lifting lightweight items up to the second and third levels, shaping towers, etc. A few spells like prestidigitation (temporary molds and blocks to keep things from sliding) and rose control also help to some degree.

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 86/86 AC 23 Touch 16 Flat 19 CMD 28 Hero Points 3 d20+21=33 ; d20+21=23 ; d20+21=32 ; d20+21=26 ; d20+21=37 ; d20+20=22 ; d20+20=33 ; d20+20=33 ; d20+20=22 ; d3=2 ; d20+20=33 ; d20+20=36 ; d20+20=31 ; d20+20=29 ; d20+20=30 ; d20+20=38 ; d20+20=32 ; d20+20=28 ; d20+20=25 ; d20+20=22 ; d20+20=39 ; d20+20=32 ; d20+20=31 ; d20+20=22 ; d20+20=39 ; d3=1 ; d20+20=40 ; d20+20=29 ;
Tuesday July 10th, 2018 4:15:44 PM
Melvin, that's exactly how I'm thinking of the timeline.

Hobie will happily pay the 25 gp for the Archery Range to get finished, and encourage Foreman George to get it done as quickly as possible.

Once it's finished, Hobie will head out to do some practice, starting with a target at 30 ft, and aiming for a bullseye of AC 15

He fires 5 shots (33, 23, 32, 26, 37) and unsurprisingly, he hits perfectly with each arrow.

He moves back to 75 feet, and aims for a little bit more of a challenge, AC 25.
He misses 2 of 5 (22, 33, 33, 22, 33) which frustrates him, so he takes another five shots and this time he makes all five (36, 31,29, 30, 38)

Finally, he moves out to 100 ft, and tries to test himself a bit more, AC 30.
Making only 2 of 5 (32, 28, 25, 22, 39), Hobie curses himself, and tries once more. This time he sinks 4 of 5 (32, 31, 22, 39, 40) and finishes with the last arrow landing dead center.

"That's how you finish strong Hobester" he says to himself as he thinks of possible ways to test himself better than just shooting stationary targets.

The next time he sees Kezzem, Hobie will mention an idea that he had. "Hey Kez, now that we got the range finished, what do you say we invite some of the citizens and we give them a little marksmanship show. Maybe we could show off a bit, you with your daggers, me with Prowler, and maybe we could even give lessons for some of the kids?"

The Unbelievable J.T.T. Zaragosa (Jairus Houdek) (AC 24 CMD 22 HP 41)
Tuesday July 10th, 2018 4:21:21 PM
Zaragosa will aid in any work that is being done when asked. Else, he mostly will stay out of the way. As a newcomer, he doesn't put his nose anywhere it doesn't belong nor does he have a stake in any decision.

Bliss (AC23, HP96) (Cayzle) d20+25=32 ; d20+25=28 ; d20+25=36 ;
Tuesday July 10th, 2018 4:36:52 PM

[OOC: Sitcom Mode! I love it! That's exactly right!]

New Guys Plotline

Bliss takes a turn talking to JTT and Talia. He wants them to know about how the group works, with common tactics and stuff. "Don't want you guys to be shocked when Mister Murphy turns into an Elemental or I turn into a Tiger," he says.

Bliss explains that he's a frontline fighter these days. He used to be a sniper, which was less dangerous, but also less heroic and also more boring. Nowadays, he fights with his wooden fists ability, or changes into kitty and attacks in tiny cat form, or maybe changes into a tiger or other large beast. What else? He mentions that Hobie's Haste spell is pretty awesome. "Oh, and we got no cleric, but with two paladins, two bloodwitches, a druid, and a bard, we should be in good shape for cures so long as everybody pitches in."

Foreman George Plotline

Bliss steps in to make sure that Foreman George adds some prison cells to the Humble House. "Because if Pressi needs to bring someone to justice, we need a place to stash them." He also wants a place to brew potions and stuff, like scrying and witchy rituals. And we needs lots of staff bedrooms or dorms, because Bliss has followers (four at the moment), and so does Pressi. Bliss helps out with construction too, and uses Plant Growth and Plant Command to make sure the gardens and trees come out nice.

Brewing Plotline

Bliss and Auntie Pot use some time to make some potions. Barkskin CL9, and Cure Moderate Wounds x2 CL3. Spellcraft checks 32, 28, 36 (sheet updated).

He talks with Talia and JTT to see if they know any cool spells to make into potions in the future. Bardic Heroism maybe? That's a sweet one!

The Unbelievable J.T.T. Zaragosa (Jairus Houdek) (AC 24 CMD 22 HP 41)
Tuesday July 10th, 2018 6:40:48 PM

Zaragosa listens to Bliss carefully, after he was done, he nods saying. "I can give a small buff while in combat and I can heal of course. However. the only way I really can do damage is if I can flank so that requires some teamwork. Else I will just stay back. Again, I'm mostly good outside combat, although I do have this nifty ice sword and can hit vital areas decently."

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, HP 119/119, CMD 24; Rumpus - AC 25, HP 62/62, CMD 24, DR 5/evil, Resist acid 5, cold 5, electricity 5
Tuesday July 10th, 2018 7:19:48 PM
Air Elemental Spire:

"Shame Alleah isn't still around to see this," says Kezzem to Murph, Press, and Bliss. "I wonder what she and Shel are up to these days."

Foremore George:

"I think we need some more grassy areas for Rumpus and Miss Piggy to play in. Maybe build a fenced area outside the main wall. Harper can play too, I guess, if he can behave himself without supervision. Hey Press, does your cat eat pork or whatever-it-is-you-call-pony-meat?"

Archery Range:

"That's a great idea, Hobie, but daggers are pretty much close range weapons, and I don't think I want to be standing close to the target if newbies are firing bows at it. That said, I'm a pretty decent shot with a bow myself, even if I can't do any fancy tricks with it."

New Guys:

"I'm not sure what a bloodwitch is, but they all seem to get pretty weird. Alleah, Pressi, and Bliss all got strange from bloodwitch-ing. Well, a different weird in Bliss's case."

Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 22, HP 72/72, CMD 18
Tuesday July 10th, 2018 9:04:17 PM
Humble Swords'
Talia listens to the groups as a whole and then each official member, individually. Talia really is not sure what she might be able to do with regards to the compounds construction directly. Indirectly, Talia says to Mr. Murphy, " I'm not sure what I might be able to do to assist you directly; I have but a few cantrips that might be of some use to Humble Sword's; but I am sure I could donate some coin to your compounds capital building fund, if you think that would be alright?"

"While I am on the topic, are there any historians or genealogists in the Valley?" says Talia to no one in particular. I would very much like to inquire in the past. I have a lead or two I would like to pursue.

Kezzem:

Talia asks Mr. Kezzem, "What's a bloodwitch?" Never heard of such a creature. Does it have something to do with bloodmoss?

Foreman George

Sir Foreman, "To whom should I address by curiosities about the construction of the Humble Swords' compound?" asks Ms.Talia

Bliss (AC23, HP96) (Cayzle)
Tuesday July 10th, 2018 9:59:15 PM

Bliss grins at Sir Kezzem and is glad to hear of JTT's buffing ability.

Then he laughs at Talia's question. "Wowsy, Mister Murphy here is the Wold's Foremost Expert in halfling families from one of the the valley to the other!"

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 86/86 AC 23 Touch 16 Flat 19 CMD 28 Hero Points 3
Wednesday July 11th, 2018 1:43:05 AM
When Bliss mentions that being a sniper is "less heroic" Hobie sprays a mouthful of ale across the room.

"LESS HEROIC?! I'll show you heroic, housecat!" Hobie lifts his fists up. "Let's go outside and brawl, no arrows, no claws, just a good old fashioned wrestling match, first to pin the other wins!"

ADM Kim - weeks 1 and 2 of extended downtime
Wednesday July 11th, 2018 3:26:02 AM
Construction Project

George and many of his crew are pleased to have some of the adventurers pitch in, especially as they use some of their unique abilities. One of the crew keeps on asking for Zaragoza's help with fitting stones on the walls, and later with carrying things up to him as he works the rafters. Pressi's flying ferry service comes in very handy. The strength offered by Succotash and his pig are made use of. The gardening skills of Bliss and Murphy are taken advantage of.

"Prison cells?" George repeats as Bliss suggests such. "Best use the cellar, I think. Let's get the roof on first. But, yes, we can fashion a reasonably secure set of cells. In the cellar," George chuckles.

"Murphy talked about various rooms and labs, and lots of other such things for the huge stone building closer to the center. And there is the ritual house we have plans for over on the eastern side. The kitchen will be on the ground floor here in the Guest House. How about your brewing place on the floor above the kitchen? As far as bedrooms and dorms, yes, many of them are already planned." He shows Bliss the sketches he is working from. The main floor has a few common areas, a fireplace, a kitchen, a dining area, a wall bookshelf, a toilet, a wash area. The two upper rooms have many small and medium sized rooms, a toilet room, a washroom.

"The place can sleep maybe twenty to twenty six halflings with fair privacy, or more with doubling up, more bunks. Your current complement should be able to fit here once we're done."

Kezzem's request for outside the land allotment is answered by the Foreman with, "Well, I've been authorized to build within the 120 yard square area. We'd need to hear from the Mayor if we want to go outside that. If he says yes, then we'll be happy to help you out there."

A worker named Palco constructs the frames over the wells dug by Murphy, with buckets for drawing up the water. Except that the water level of the well at AD70 is so near the surface, that he devises a pump. Water can be drawn from the pump very efficiently.

At the end of two weeks, the Guest House is ready for the roofing. Split cedar on top of broad flat boards is used to cover the building. More interior finishing is underway - interior walls are about half built by this time, with doors on 1/3 of the rooms planned.

Weather Reports
Five days after the new members showed up, and on the third day after the townsfolk showed up to help, rain begins. At first it is light to medium. At night it picks up, and is fairly heavy by the morning, so much so that Foreman George says that he is going to have his crew focus on workshop tasks, out of the rain. "When it lets up, we can continue work on the Guest House." For two more days it remains moderate to heavy. The Crescent River swells somewhat. Murphy surveys, and learns that the underground water flow is improving. On the morning of the fifth day of showers, by midmorning the clouds begin to part. The sun shines through. Birds begin to chitter. After another week of fair weather, another two days of hearty rain ensue, then reasonably fair weather resumes.

Pressi's Favor
After explaining how she can find out who is doing the work regardless, and how she ought to take over the world, Pressi finally relents, and accepts the deal as Hugo Pipeleaf explained it. He says, "Very well." He takes the dragon bits from her, and 60% of the money - "The other 40% on delivery is how I work" - then hands her a rough canvas sack which weighs about ten pounds. Whatever is inside feels soft and squishy. "Go somewhere else private to open this. She said there are instructions inside. See you later."

When she finds a place to open the sack, she discovers within many filthy silks. Dirt, grease, stains, splotches, and some which have questionable smells. Each is 6'x6'. A note falls out among the silks. "Choose three you like. Cleanse and, if needed, mend these three. Place the others back in the sack. Place the three clean silks in a different bag. Return the lot to the leatherworker within 2 days."

Eight of them are of solid colors: Red. Yellow. Sky blue. Dark blue. Green - with a large rip near the center. Black. Purple. Brown. One is like a sunburst of yellow and orange, a few touches of red, blue, green. One is a plaid - mainly blues, greens, with accents of yellow and black. One is checkerboard black and red. One has tight straight parallel rainbow stripes, repeated across the breadth. One shows the face of a leopard in the center, the rest is leopard spots. The last is a sunrise over a lake, with autumn leaves on trees in the background.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood (Kim) HP 85/85
Wednesday July 11th, 2018 3:26:59 AM
J.T.T. Zaragosa: Tactics
"I may occasionally be able to flank with you. I tend to wildshape into elemental or other forms. I aim a lot for battlefield area control - trying to keep all our opponents from ganging up on us at once." Murphy lets Talia and J.T.T. know that he keeps a journal of Humble's Sword, and if they care to, he is happy to let them read it. "It has become somewhat lengthy. If you want to know more about our early days, I can give you that section. It might be good for you to read about what we as a group have gone through over the past couple of months, though. At least some of our tactics and skills come through."

If any wish to take advantage of Murphy's journals - simply read through past archives of this game. Maybe your character can mention something he or she read, or ask questions about it]

Kezzem's observations
"I agree, Kez. I wish that Shel and Alleah were still with us. I think I'll check with Shel's folks, see if she is faring all right, and if they know of Alleah's whereabouts," says Murphy. "Or, maybe it might be better if you were to ask."

Talia's Identity Crisis
Murphy laughs at Bliss's compliment to his family tree knowledge. "No, I think the most knowledgeable about Crescent Valley families honor goes to Mildred Treeleaf Softbelly of Angel Springs. And old Farley Applebarrel and his wife Lois over in Hovel are a close second as a pair, and my brother Kendry in the top ten. Did you know they have genealogical knowledge contests once in a while here in the valley? I'm maybe in the top thirty or thereabouts. For other aspects of history, there are several people who have their specialties. My Aunt Marigold is no slouch in the history department - and she has a thing or two in common with Bliss and Pressi and their covens. By the way, I tell you that as I trust each of you - but she does not want that spread for general consumption. She's in Hovel. By the way, she can be sweet as pie, and fierce as a dire wolf, so mind your step with her. Since Hovel is closer, Talia, how about if you and I and whoever else would like to immerse themselves in relational minutae head to Hovel for a day or two? Might be able to find out a little bit - but no guarantees. Oh, and Mungo Hardbottle in Angel Springs has some family history books in his stacks. I think he has a thing for sorcerers, too, but I might be mistaken. That is, Kendry might be mistaken, as he is the one who told me that.

"So, what's the story, Talia? I heard of a young girl in the Red Hills who was being treated rather poorly due to her clear eldrich capabilities at a tender age. Is that what happened to you?"

Murphy makes arrangements for about three days to travel to Hovel, make inquiries, and return, to help out Talia. He would like Pressi to come too, if she will. He suggests they travel once the rains start in earnest. "Not much building possible at the moment."

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electricity 5
Wednesday July 11th, 2018 5:12:38 AM
“I’ll head go to Hovel with you guys”, Succotash exclaims, “If the Crescent Valley is going to be my home, I should learn what I can about her, and see what she looks like”. Succotash doesn’t mention the fact that he is more than a bit smitten by the lovely Talia, and secretly, he just wants to spend with her, and even though he is really beginning to love new life, in Humble’s Ford, after several weeks without any “action”, he is getting a little bored.

When he isn’t helping in the construction, he spends most his time practicing with his great sword “Twinklesting”, and sparring with who ever is willing. He also makes a point to keep his armor and weapons highly polished.

The Unbelievable J.T.T. Zaragosa (Jairus Houdek) (AC 24 CMD 22 HP 41)
Wednesday July 11th, 2018 9:35:20 AM
When talking about tactics, Zaragosa was relieved to hear that Murphey and Bliss appreciated the buffs and team ability. By now Zaragosa realised that he might be the small fish in a big bond as fighting was concerned. Yet he would try to impress them with his skills, but much later.

Since his name was now tied to the Humble Sword (and because of the bad rainy weather), Zaragosa decided not to go out and do corner street performances. Zaragosa was not afraid to make a fool of himself for entertainment and gold, but he didn't wish to make a fool of this group, at least not until he got to know them and their temperaments. He had plenty of gold to survive a long while now so he wasn't very worried. Instead, he would just help with the fitting stones and to carry things, as asked.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 21, HP 94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 21, HP 61, CMD 23
Wednesday July 11th, 2018 12:13:00 PM
(Okay, I really need to start getting into fewer conversations and threads. It takes me an hour just to get an idea of what to address.)

Armor Quest

Pressi is a little peeved that this guy is making her do her laundry, but that's what her followers are for.

As for designs, she really hadn't given it much thought on what the aesthetics would be, and now it was all she thought about. None of the samples really gave the dark hero vibe she was going for, and she wondered if maybe THAT'S what she could have gotten in exchange for a favor. Too late now.

After some back and forth about what looks good, what matches, what fits the personality, she placed in the bag her three choices:

Her Armor: Purple
Her Buckler: Sunburst
Harper's Armor: Brown (to match her spots and new saddle)

After fulfilling the rest of the instructions and warping a couple of times, she was ready to get this over with.

New House

Link to Map, basically copy and make changes

Pressi donated her share of coin (25 gp, was it?) and perused the effects. She made sure that her "Rock Tower" would be changed to a more general caster (or at least witch) tower and that it would hold some amenities such as a library, divination area, and areas for followers to visit. (And maybe a place to craft potions or scrolls.)

Other than that
- she figured the name of Lance's treehouse could also be changed to just treehouse
- she tried to decide if she needed a shrine to her god or immortal powers in general, and realized she had no idea how to worship anyone

To Kezzem, she reassured him that Harper, despite needing to be taken out for hunting on occassion, would not eat any of the mounts or familiars. Unless they get trapped in barbeque sauce. Then, all bets are off.

As for any displays, she figured she could whip up a show of her own, though not of mundane range abilities. (She doesn't have any, preferring to rely on spells.)

To the newcomers, she encourages them to speak their voice. They may see something that they need or that could otherwise be changed, and it'll be their home, too.

New Guys

"Your feedback is appreciated, Kezzem, but I think you overestimate how normal I used to be as a monk and rogue.

"As for what bloodwitches are, we are casters that tap into the foundations of the material plane itself, drawing a substance called woldsblood (which is how you get a lot of objects with "blood" in the name) that then gets tamed in various ways. We can even turbocharge our abilities by drawing more blood, or by relying on anyone in our coven.

"Or, if you're an unlucky monk with rogue skills and no magic whatsoever, you get shoved into the wrong soul jar when the world itself transforms and pop out as some weak frail figure that can literally change existence. Also, Alleah permanently changed her species before leaving, so.... We do the best we can to stay sane but you have to cut us some slack."

(OOC: If you peruse the bloodwitch class on the Woldipedia, you can see, among other things, that we are supposed to be oddballs, mechanically and fluffwise.)

"As for me? On paper, I do what Mistah J does, albeit with somewhat different talents and gaps, and with a particular mission to hunt fugitives from time to time. In practice, I'm more of a spontaneous cleric. I stand in the back casting heals, debuffs and the occasional miscellaneous trick, though I can certainly swing a chain or sword as needed. You'll probably flank with the paladins or Bliss more than me or Murphy, though...."

Pressi fell silent as Hobie jumped out to defend his honor. "No fighting, or I'm joining in and naming Harper my second. How's your resistance to jungle cats on your head?

"Yeah, Shel and I used to have a number of arguments about..." She catches what she thinks is Talia's look. "About how Shel was a coward because she merely stood in the back casting arcane magic.... I don't think you and I will have the same problems, but yeah, cowards."

Kind of irrelevant when I'm removing your blindness by scroll for the fifth time while Hobie covers you, she thinks to herself. it wasn't easy watching Bliss insist she stay back and keep casting, even if it was clearly the right call. Still hoping to be the big warrior, she supposed.

"So, do you have a spell focus yet?" she asks Talia. "Any ideas spring to mind as to what you'll be casting?"

Pressi does agree to visit Hovel with everyone, offering her divination magic and some knowledge skills.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, HP 119/119, CMD 24; Rumpus - AC 25, HP 62/62, CMD 24, DR 5/evil, Resist acid 5, cold 5, electricity 5
Wednesday July 11th, 2018 1:33:35 PM
Murphey:
"It'd be nice to get the old gang back together before things fell apart, though last I heard, they didn't stick around Humble's Ford. I guess it can't hurt to check."

Pressi and Talia:
"The only thing I know about bloodwitching is that is changes people. Alleah turned herself into an air elemental somehow, and unlike Murphey, was unable to turn back to a halfling. Bliss used to be a little archer with a talking bird and a shadow pet and know he's charging into combat as a kitty cat. I know Mookie died an all--poor guy, I miss him, but what happened to Pookie? And as for your Press, well, you didn't use to suddenly get older and younger, and you certainly didn't use to dress like you were going to tell me I am about to be visited by three ghosts. I know we all change over time, and I am certainly not the rakish minstrel I used to be, but you bloodwitches seem to have far more than your fair share."

Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 86/86 AC 23 Touch 16 Flat 19 CMD 28 Hero Points 3
Wednesday July 11th, 2018 2:09:24 PM
"Aw, Press, I'm only playing, I'm not really angry at ole Bliss, just itching for a fun little sparring session. It's been too long since I fought for play and not to keep from being killed by some beast"

OOC: I am sure this is not how you picture (or even describe) your characters, but this is what I picture:

Kezzem- I know you say red haired but this is how I picture you

https://i.pinimg.com/originals/81/3b/d3/813bd32a4d0ea57df26b3c31dc05de31.jpg

Murphy- This is totally wrong I know
https://i.pinimg.com/originals/5c/ca/fc/5ccafc974bf974b5ef5619fab2fb9cef.png

Pressi-
https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/parody/images/5/57/Violet-parr-the-incredibles.jpg/revision/latest?cb=20180127000848

Bliss-
https://www.n3rdabl3.com/wp-content/images/uploads/2018/02/salem3EDIT.jpg

Bliss (AC23, HP96) (Cayzle)
Wednesday July 11th, 2018 3:16:59 PM
No way! THIS is more like Bliss!

:-)

===--===

Bliss pounces on Hobie and wrestles like a mad fiend. He even bites, but it does not hurt due to his Merciful Tear.

Then he hops off laughing and offers his friend a hand.

"Who's next! And that was me holding back!"

[OOC: Who wants to jump on a Tapestry Board and fight each other? Bliss will own all of ya's!]

=====

Murphy in whirlwind form

Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 22, HP 72/72, CMD 18
Wednesday July 11th, 2018 4:07:56 PM
Talia says, " Although I just arrived, I would be more than happy to visit other locations within the valley!" "Mister Murphy, Who's Mungo Hardbottle? And what an interesting name!", says Talia.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood (Kim) HP 85/85
Wednesday July 11th, 2018 11:32:06 PM

"He is a bright fellow, indeed," Murphy responds to Talia's question about Mungo Hardbottle. "My older siblings met him on earlier adventures. He generally knows a whole lot more than he lets on. Shop of knowledge in Angel Springs. I've got some journals that tell more about him. Will let you read them, if you'd like."

ADM Kim - A quick jaunt to Hovel
Wednesday July 11th, 2018 11:33:03 PM
[Will get back to HF building projects in a few hours. For now - we're taking a quick trip to Hovel, in the drenching rains.]

So, Talia, Murphy, Pressi, Succotash, J.T.T. Zaragoza (& any other party members who wish to join in) set off on the second day of rains, and make their way to Hovel, on the west side of Crescent Valley, not so far off from Buddy's Falls, and the Culverwood. On the road perhaps every 50 to 100 feet a turnip is seen near the middle of the pathway.

When nearly to the small town the groups passes by a cart which has extra wide wheels, and a grumpy halfling slouched over the reins, talking to himself, and perhaps to the two dripping ponies which draw the cart. Even as he looks up at some of you in the passing, he keeps mumbling to himself, and makes it clear with glares and dismissive gestures that he has no interest in meeting any of you, or small talk, or answering any question whatsoever. Canvas covers all except the very back of the load of turnips. One falls to the ground even as you pass on by.

Hovel comes into sight. Rain cleanses the air of much of the smoke as it rises from many a chimney. One farmer and his dog lead six cows. As they draw near a barn, the lead cattle break into a trot, apparently excited about finding shelter. Otherwise, the streets are deserted mid-afternoon.

Murphy suggests going straight to the old Applebarrel farm. He recommends to his friends, "Don't volunteer too much information to them when you first meet them. It's a game they play. They try to figure out who someone is by how they look. Feel free to answer them if they ask a question - but have fun watching how they play off each other - and you. After talking for a while, they may ask you your family background. Tell them what you know, if you want to. If you don't know, perhaps they'll have a clue or two."

An old hound in a dog house raises his tired head as he sees the group approach, gives a moderately voiced, "Wuff!" then rests his head back on his forepaws, albeit with droopy eyes remaining open, watching as they pass by to the door. There is a cord hanging down from a bell. Someone rings it, and a very skinny old halfling fellow opens the door. "Ayep. Hallo. What can I do fer you?" he asks in a high-end nasal voice. "Say. Say. Say, Lois, that Murphy Bumblebee kid is here. Sandy hair. And the constable's nephew. Eh? No, from Humble's Ford. Roscoe. I know Roscoe is not the constable's nephew. Hobie Browncloak." A woman's voice can be heard in the background as he talks. "A Quickfoot, too, I reckon," he calls back. He looks at Kezzem for a moment. "You from the Blacklyng line? That'd explain the set of the cheekbones." The woman's voice is heard in the background. "Right, right!" he replies.

"Well, what're ye waitin' fer? Come in. Except for the marvelous pig. Put her over in that pen there - open the shed for it, too - it's empty now, save for some hay. I'll toss in some slop in a bit. Come on in. Oh, right." He steps back and pulls open the door. "Dreadful wet. Come in and get warmed up by the fire."

He lets all pass. Just before the door closes, the dog gives one more, "Wuff!"

A rosy-cheeked halfling woman sits in a rocker, her lips pursed. "I'd get up, but I've got the rheumatism. We boiled the water in the kitchen not long since, so, Farl, add a couple sticks to the stove, and get ready the tea set. Nice to have visitors. Nice. Hobie, your uncle is proud of you. No need to say it. Just the way it is.

"Murphy - followin' in your family's footsteps. And you, dear, must be Pressi. You look different from last time I saw you - just before the tower exploded. No, we didn't meet. I just saw you on your way to visit Ellis and Penelope. Someone told me your name. And, dearie, we keep up on the news. Thank you, by the way, for helping to keep our valley reasonably safe."

A rectangular table with two benches along the sides and chair at each end is already set with plates and silverware. After some kitchen clattering, and a few minutes, the old man comes out. "Tea in a jiffy. Uh, that means, about ten minutes, I reckon."

The fellow, albeit with spine somewhat bent, and neck at 45°, moves pretty well. He's likely not much over 110 years. He pulls out one of the benches, and there's a couch on the other side of the room. "Sit down. Sit down everyone. Oh - see the hooks on the walls? You can hang your wet things, if you've a mind to."

Murphy takes a moment and says, "Friends, this is Mister Farley Wentworth Applebarrel, and his wife, Lois Mulberry Sweetcrop Applebarrel. Mister and Missus Applebarrel, we have come to you for counsel."

Her pursed lips spread into a smile. "Well, Murphy it's been about three years, hasn't it? Come and give me a kiss on the cheek." He does so, a little red-faced.

"Nice to have Humble's Sword visit us here in humble little Hovel." She takes her time, looking at each person in turn. To Zaragoza, she asks, "Do you have kin from the Free-Stater's area?" She squints. "Not sure, not sure."

Lois looks at Bliss. "You look from a much older line of halflings, but I can't place your family."

"This here is Succotash Slenderstick," Farley comments. "You may not realize it - but you may have a few drops of the Rowgold family some generations back. Calfast Rowgold Tunnelly won the spot of Burgomeister some years back, served well, from what I could see, though I voted for Marigold Pipewood Pastna. Someone trumped up false charges against him, though, and he was sandbagged. Some wickedness sneaks through here in the Valley from time to time. I thought he did the Valley good."

"I see Oakendale, too, Farley," Lois interjects. "See his hairline?"

If all this seems like a local version of a carnival show...

Lois turns to Talia. "You, beauty, look like an older version of Linnea."

Just then, a whistling sound comes from the kitchen. Farley leaps up. "Tea in a jiffy!"

And, in a jiffy, tea and biscuits, cheese, sausage, sliced apples, juicy pear slices, carrots, boiled turnips, warm bread, and a nice beef stew - a very varied 'teatime' this is.

Bliss (AC23, HP96) (Cayzle)
Thursday July 12th, 2018 12:35:53 AM

This woman reminds Bliss of his Aunt Priss, the witch who raised him after his Mom get sentenced to do "hard time" by Lord Gargul for the sin of bringing Bliss back from death.

Anyway, Aunt Priss is a witch too, and the old reflexes kick right in. Bliss keeps a very polite expression on his face and nods carefully during the conversation. When addressed directly -- "You look from a much older line of halflings, but I can't place your family." -- Bliss says, "Yes ma'am. I'm a reincarnation, you see. My biological mom was a harpy, and my adopted mom was a liontaur."

He cautiously takes one sausage, just one, and uses a napkin carefully.

ADM Kim - Construction Notes sitcom section
Thursday July 12th, 2018 2:22:26 AM
Construction Notes

The archery range is ready. The oak at one end of the target range says sternly: "Do not place metal tipped wooden twigs in my bark." One of the workers, Fortho Rockbridge Pastna, points out that people who enter from the West Gate, going under the archery range, might also be subject to stray missiles as they ascend the ramp going upward adjacent to the range, and either a barrier, or a covering for those coming up the ramp would be smart.

During the last week of downtime, more progress was made on the buildings of the compound. The Guest House - 'Humble House' for now, has about 75% of the rooms framed in, with 35% fully finished, and 40% rough finished. The common areas are built. There is a need for furniture. "We can build bed frames. Or you can find a carpenter to do it for you, or maybe even buy some from the General Store." George figures another ten days to general completion. His plumber has water supplied to both ends of each floor. On the roof is a water tank, with a pump in the kitchen which sends water up to it. He asks about putting in a pipe on each floor that can spread water if a fire breaks out. That can be worked on later, and will cost an estimated 125gp per floor. He lets the group know that Palco installed such a system for the orphanage, after the fire was put out, and the building repaired.

George requests that Murphy dig down ten feet below ground level for the multipurpose building, which the druid does, using multiple expeditious excavation spells for a fair part of the first 5' depth, and then terraforming (move earth) and earth elementaling the bulk of the remainder. He goes a little deeper in some parts at George's request. By the end of the last week, the crew has begin to lay the foundation, but George estimates a few months' work will be needed to construct this fairly large edifice.

George also attempts to answer Talia's question. "You can ask me for the technical details about the construction of the Humble's Sword - compound? Sanctuary? House? Whatever you folks are calling it these days. You can ask Murphy, too - he came up with the general designs, but he doesn't have a large amount of building experience. Anyhow, ask away," he tells her. He offers the sorceress a pinch of tobacco. "You put it in your cheek, or under your front lip. Keep it there, but chaw on it once in a while. Helps me when I'm thinking." She may be grossed out by his offer - or not, as she chooses. Chewses?

The foreman tells Pressi that after discussion, the plans for her rock tower were altered, extending the building another 10' eastward. "Your Murphy, though, will be doing most of the work of building it up. My fellows will come in for the finishing work. As this is your tower, please let us know how you would like to situate things. Knowing ahead of time makes it easier to do it the right way."

Murphy does not have time, yet, for this project. Nor for the larger rock and earth edifice. No water slide as of yet.

The outer walls are still not up. The gates are quick-framed in. Plots are staked out at the four corners of each of the anticipated shrines. With two adventures having paid for the archery range, enough funds were available to have the same crew set up the 'Practice Arena / Exercise Yard.' It consists of about six inches of fine sand laid over a firm packed hard earth surface. They leave half a dozen rakes for regular surface smoothing.

The stables, barn, and warehouse are built. Stalls are set up in the stables, places for feed, tack, and so forth. The warehouse at the moment is a bare affair. Shelves and closets and storage and lofts remain to be installed. The barn is fairly well finished. The sheds are in place.

A ritual building is constructed. The ceilings are 16' high, with the roof extending another 8' above that. There is a ladder on the north side of the building which goes from ground to roof. The roof is flat on the west side, and slants downward on the east side. On the wood side, there are railings around the edge of the roof (including protection against sliding down the slant side). The floor is on the western half a fine hardwood, provided by associates of Samell Pastna Pipewood, and on the eastern half made of smooth stone. It has two entrances. On the west side, solid wooden steps rise. On the east side, solid stone steps. It remains to be furnished to their liking by the adventurers themselves. Above the main ceiling is an attic of sorts, 6' high on the west, slanting downward on the eastern side.

Word gets back from the Mayor's office that within 100' of the North side beyond the allotment may be put to any reasonable use. A note is attached, 'Including for Fancy Pigs, if desired.' In addition, up to 30' distant from each of the other sides may be used. Nothing outside those areas is permitted without prior authorization, except in event of an emergency.

George consults with Bliss. "What do you want your fountain to be like, Sir Bliss?" he asks.

All in all, much has been done, yet more remains to do.

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood (Kim) HP 85/85
Thursday July 12th, 2018 2:55:29 AM

Murphy says a quick blessing over the food. "Heaven above, bless this home, reward them for their hospitality, and we thank you for provision and sustenance. Selah."

As they tuck in, Murphy says, "Always a pleasure to see you two. Actually, she," and he moves his head to indicate Talia, "is why we have come. She seeks knowledge of her family. As I understand it, she was young when they were separated."

He notes Bliss's circumspection.

He thinks it would be lovely to visit his brother and sister-in-law. She is expecting a baby soon - he just does not know how soon.

Murphy writes a note of thanks to the Mayor for the additional grant of land usage, and for the extra assistance he was able to arrange.

He sees that most of the top floor is finished. He wants the room in the NW corner.

Next to the door to the future Guest House Murphy has a sign engraved in wood. "Humble House."

ADM Kim - Pressi's Armor sitcom scene
Thursday July 12th, 2018 3:04:54 AM

Pressi did divine correctly that the silks were to adorn the dragonskin in part - though the skin itself does show through in various places. The armor is finely wrought. The additional 40%, to pay the balance, is requested.

"It was a serious joy to be able to work this leather for you, Lady Pressi," Hugo tells her. "May it serve you, and your leopard, well."

Murphy Leafwin Pipewood (Kim) HP 85/85. Intro Treant Quercus and Awakened Oak Dderwen
Thursday July 12th, 2018 3:22:15 AM

Murphy suggests some netting to stop or slow down most of the errant arrows. "I have enough I am doing. Someone else take care of the netting," he requests. The same might help snag or deflect arrows by the West Gate and adjacent ramp.

Murphy does take the time to introduce the treant in the SE corner: Quercus is his name. He tells the treant the name of each fellow adventurer, and his relationship to them, and of each construction worker, and the various citizens who have come to help. "Quercus will help defend this area, and be kind to children. You all be kind to Quercus."

He does likewise for the awakened oak in the NW corner. His name is Dderwen - pronounced /therr-'wen/. Similar introductions and admonitions are made.

Succotash Slenderstick and Miss Piggy (Jeremy Canaday) AC26/ CMD26 - HP 102/102, Miss Piggy AC27 / CMD23 - HP 87/87 DR 5/evil, Acid, Cold, Electricity 5
Thursday July 12th, 2018 5:54:34 AM
To Farley and Lois: “You may be right, I don’t know a lot about my family history, but I do know that my people migrated from a different part of the Wold, many years ago, though I’m not sure which part, so it could be from these parts”.

Upon their return home, Succotash seeks out Forman George, and hands him a small sack of coins containing 300gp, saying, “Put this to whatever projects you deem most important, but don’t tell the rest of the Swords, I’m a firm believer in the old adage: “don’t let your left know what your right hand is doing”, in other words, I don’t want any recognition for this”.

Bliss (AC23, HP96) (Cayzle)
Thursday July 12th, 2018 8:05:57 AM

Bliss says to the foreman, "I get a fountain? Wowsy! That's nice." He thinks for a bit. "Can it have a liontaur? Who looks like this one?" He shows off his action figure of his mom, Vauhwyt of Blackbird Lake.

"Oh, and maybe a raven on her shoulder?"

Little fellow looks to be getting a tiny bit choked up at the thought.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 24, HP 119/119, CMD 24; Rumpus - AC 25, HP 62/62, CMD 24, DR 5/evil, Resist acid 5, cold 5, electricity 5
Thursday July 12th, 2018 8:59:15 AM
A quick jaunt to Hovel:

Kezzem watches the rude fellow on the turnip truck.

"Must...resist...urge...to...push...him...off...truck...and...make...obvious...joke," says Kezzem. "That's not only unpaladiny, but it's just lazy comedy."

Later, when the man addresses his herritage.

"I beg your pardon, sir, but I am not a Quickfoot. Not any more at least. I'm a Humble. Of the Sword Humbles."

The Unbelievable J.T.T. Zaragosa (Jairus Houdek) (AC 24 CMD 22 HP 41)
Thursday July 12th, 2018 9:16:33 AM
Leaving his pony and most of his things behind, Zaragosa follows the group out in the rain to the Hovel. Zaragosa lifts his cap and puts it on his head, making it turn into a large brim hat in hopes it keeps him slightly dry.

When he finally arrives, he enters the house, shakes his hat, and instead puts it into his bag of holding. He greets the Applebarrel with a "Most greetings"and a smile. He takes a seat and waits for the tea.

Answers Lois's question politely, "I have no kin anywhere. Why do you ask?"

Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 22, HP 72/72, CMD 18
Thursday July 12th, 2018 9:39:47 AM
Hovel Trip

Talia, turns to Ms. Lois Mulberry Sweetcrop Applebarrel, and asks, " An older version of Linnea ? Who is that, if Imight ask?" says Talia looking like she missed a bit of information she should already know.

"Miss Lois, Do you know know a Mister Mungo Hardbottle? Talk is he is a shoppe keep for old antiquities. I would very much like to meet him one day. Could you tell me how to find him?" asks Talia a bit excitedly.

Mister Foreman George

"Mister Foreman George, I was wondering how much additional Capital needs to be raised to finish Humble House Estate?" asks Talia. "In addition, is there anything we could help you with that isn't already being addressed?"

Pressi (Melvin) - AC 21, HP 94, CMD 21; Harper-AC 21, HP 61, CMD 23
Thursday July 12th, 2018 4:27:16 PM
Pressi thanks the armorer for his service and pays whatever is needed. (And I will add things to my sheet tonight or tomorrow)

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Pressi is a bit on the itchy detective side herself as the various Hovelites start analyzing the group. It had taken some willpower to not read the turnip guy's thoughts or hit him with detect magic (or even grab one of the turnips for study. Actually, should I have stopped him and helped him out? Maybe should have done that, or would that be me prying?) Hobie was right, they were all too wound from battle after battle.

Anyway, Pressi wondered at first if she should break out the divine or disguise magic or what, when they identified her quite easily. Because of her fame, she heard. "Well, you know, I just did what was needed..." and she let herself be swept up in their hospitality.

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