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Murphy Halfling Druid (KimMc) AC 40/T29/F35 HP 219+14/219  d3=1 ; 7d100=311 ; 5d20=44 ; 4d100=139 ;
Sunday August 28th, 2022 3:00:50 PM
Murphy is thankful for the friends platter, and figures a way with cords to strap it on.

Since no one has spoken up [although, if you want to come along, say so, and it will be so], Murphy says, "Well, one of The Second Dinner Club can get me back here, or my brother and cohort Kendry can do it. I'll be back in, I hope, about an hour. Would love to tour the city with you when I get back."

After tree-trunk travel, Murphy heads to his family home, finds his mother and father, and likely a few siblings, explains the situation, asks them to recruit for baking break surprises, fills them in on what the group has been through the past few days, and concludes with, "Fire giants. I can hardly believe we are managing to swing a solid treaty with them. And hey, they seem to like us! I suppose saving their whole plane of existence can contribute toward a sense of gratitude. But, so long as giants exist, I'd rather be held in friendship by them, than have a thousand of them try to invade and trample down our valley, and end up having to kill them all."

He makes arrangements to have as many as they can make delivered to the oak tree a short walk from the cave with the planar dais... And, it looks like they'll be able to have ~300 ready on the morrow. Kendry says he can bring a small team to deliver them to the oak. Murphy asks Kendry to talk with Pressi's coven, and see if some of them can join in the effort in any way that makes sense to them.

Having left the task in good hands, Kendry teleports his brother to the tree after Murphy shows him a good sketch of it, along with a detailed description. "Alemi watch over you in there, Murph," the bard says to the druid, then teleports over to Hovel to enlist more in the project. Looks like he'll be able to get the smaller town to whip up another 140 break surprises. Kendry enlists his Aunt Marigold to marshal the Hovel Baking club. So, if all goes well, there should be about 450 of the tasty treats.

Back among the giants and Humble's Sword
"So, a city tour, friends? I'm game for that." If they have left without him, he will ask if someone can help him catch up.

Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 47 Tch 39 Ffted 40 HP 175/175 CMD 52/54(Grapple/Trip/Disarm)  
Monday August 29th, 2022 12:55:28 AM
Nikolai attaches the giant pin to his monk robes. "Hmmm... You look dashing!" he tells his wife.

"Let's explore the city. We just might find a giant we injured in our venture into the city last time and heal him or her up some. Where would you like to see first?"

Nikolai is true to his suggestion, if they come across a giant warrior that was injured during their fight into the city, he will use either his Wand of CLW or the Staff of Healing to help heal the wound.

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 43(42)/18/40 CMD 25 HP 142/142 Valerie AC 41(40)/16/34 CMD 34 HP 170(143)/170(143)Spells 
Monday August 29th, 2022 1:40:48 AM
Succotash attaches his pin to the back of his handy haversack, like one would attach a shield. With that he asks Tali if she would like to join him for a tour of the city.

Tali (JonPaul) AC:42 (T:38, FF:36), CMD:, Saves:(F:20/R:22/W:25), HP:135/135 
Monday August 29th, 2022 7:24:30 PM
Friends of Fhorge

"I'd love to tour the city!" says Tali to Succotash. "Who else is coming?" asks Tali as she hovers across the ground.



Pressi (Melvin) - AC (33) 29, HP 217, CMD (30) 27; Harper AC 35, HP 117, CMD 35 
Monday August 29th, 2022 9:23:22 PM

Pressi doesn't travel with Murphy, but she's happy to use her connections - the coven, the Dancing Pig - to help him in his gift to the people.

Much as she feels like she got enough of a tour of giant city, she does join to be polite.

Prudence Komonov [AC 28; HP 194/194] 
Monday August 29th, 2022 10:44:23 PM
"We might as well start with the temple district," Pru replies to Nikolai. "It's right here, after all. Shall we?"

Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 47 Tch 39 Ffted 40 HP 175/175 CMD 52/54(Grapple/Trip/Disarm)  
Monday August 29th, 2022 11:58:57 PM
"Sure, honey. Good idea. Those in need of healing might come to their temple. C'mon!"

DM Mitch The final Battle Map  
Tuesday August 30th, 2022 8:09:50 AM
Tali hovers over the dinner sized pin that allows the giants to recognize her as a “Friend of Fhorge” and says it is like a “get out of jail unscathed” car
Pru pins hers to her robes and hopes it won’t pull too much. She asks her husband if he wants to rest or explore the city
Murphy wants someone to come with him in order to return to Humble’s Ford and request hundreds of Bread Surprises to add to tomorrow’s feast. He also uses cords to strap his pin on himself. No one ends up speaking up to join him so he heads back and takes care of arrangements himself. After that he returns and suggests the city tour.
Nikolai also is for the city tour and suggests should they come across a giant they injured earlier in their trip they heal them up.
Succotash attaches his pin to the back of his haversack like a shield and asks Tali to accompany him on the tour of the city
Tali says she’d love a tour of the city
Pressi uses her coven connections to help Murphy setup his care package for the ceremony from Humble’s Ford. She also joins the tour but only to be polite.
Pru suggests they start with the Temple District.
Nikolai agrees and suggest those that need healing might be there.

At Humbles Ford it is found that getting the bread made won’t be a problem - they are preparing for a festival after all. The problem is more that all the food is earmarked for the festival and there’s reluctance to surrender it and have to work even harder to be ready for the festival then they already were. However Murphy is able to convince them, stopping giant attacks is important after all, so the bread is secured.

The exploration starts with the Temple district. Now that it’s active there are plenty of giant priests around to discuss their faith with if you have any questions.

It seems that in addition to the main temple there are many smaller temples of Fhorge through the district, enough so that everyone in the city can find a place to worship on holy days. The party learns the giant’s life is very regulated, with specific times where large groups of them will worship at the various temples. It seems like almost every giant visits a temple of Fhorge every day, in various well organized shifts, and visits the other temples only as needed - say to pray for the health of an injured friend or for luck on a mission.

Nikolai’s idea, though interesting, doesn't pan out. They avoided most fights, and those they injured but didn’t kill where already healed by the local priests to keep them in full fighting form in case it was needed. It seems that giant policy on divine healing is for it to be saved for serious injury in normal times, but when the city is placed on high alert the priests prepare large amounts of healing to keep the fighting force in top shape at all times. The party’s intrusion put the city on high alert, so all injuries were taken care of.


Succotash (Jeremy) AC 43(42)/18/40 CMD 25 HP 142/142 Valerie AC 41(40)/16/34 CMD 34 HP 170(143)/170(143)Spells 
Tuesday August 30th, 2022 10:56:26 AM
"I wonder how devoted one can be, when they are forced to worship on a schedule." Succotash asks the first priest he comes upon. "I'm not judging mind, it's just that this aspect of your culture is a mystery to me. As a cleric, I understand devotion, but it's been my experience that devotion is voluntary. Perhaps you could enlighten me?

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 27; HP 193/276; DR 5/evil 
Tuesday August 30th, 2022 6:43:41 PM
Kezzem begins making a schedule for his prayers. Or for eating. One of those two. And the schedule is merely a guideline.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC (33) 29, HP 217, CMD (30) 27; Harper AC 35, HP 117, CMD 35 
Tuesday August 30th, 2022 9:23:46 PM

"Are you actually asking me about prayer on a schedule," Pressi asked. "Because if I don't pray at the right time every day, blood will actually escape into this plane and damage everyone around me. Also, moon stuff and cauldron time. There is no culture weirder than mine."

She takes some time to determine if Murphy has come back yet. She dares not ask what happens to someone who wants to worship something else, suspecting the answer already.

Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 47 Tch 39 Ffted 40 HP 175/175 CMD 52/54(Grapple/Trip/Disarm)  
Tuesday August 30th, 2022 11:23:30 PM
Nikolai simply smiles at Succotash's bewilderment. "Well, at the Citadel we could not feed all the soldiers at one time in the mess hall, so they ate in shifts. I liken the shifts for worship much the same way. It allows all the opportunity to worship without being cramped."

Murphy Halfling Druid (KimMc) AC 40/T29/F35 HP 219+14/219 
Wednesday August 31st, 2022 2:30:09 AM

In Humble's Ford
Murphy gives his brother and a few others altogether about 500 gold pieces to distribute - and with the cost of ingredients in the neighborhood of half a copper to as much as 5 copper pieces for the more luxurious break surprises, there should be enough to purchase additional ingredients, or at least have enough to purchase a refreshed supply of grains and stuffing ingredients, and help with other preparations for the upcoming celebration... He'll cast an area-wide plant growth spell in a day or two or five, however long it takes to wrap things up in the volcanic plane.

He was able to return in the time forecast, nonetheless, and joined up with the party as they went to explore the local area. "Thanks for the connections to your coven, love. I suggested also to Kendry that he have our dwarf mushroom grower kick in some of his best for a portion of the bread surprises."

On tour
As they travel the city, Murphy goes into map-making mode. He does not pull out pen and ink. Rather he uses his acute perception, fine memory, and artistic aptitude to map in his mind, so as to be able later to transcribe onto fine parchment.

He also remembers scenes - fire giants and other giants and slaves at work on the forges, gathering for worship, taking a break to eat food, talking, laughing, arguing, haggling - do fire giants haggle? Also images of his friends out among the giants. At one point in the tour he asks his friends to line up for a quick sketch in front of some outstanding Fire Giant building (for which he will pull out his artist's tools), with a bit of the volcano in the background. "I'll fill it in with nice oils later," he says, and only needs their patience at posing for maybe seven to ten minutes - which he knows will be a stretch for some [hi Kezzem].

On schedules
"Let be sure that the sun rises and sets when it feels like it, the moons wander wildly in their celestial paths, and plants grow backwards. What need is there for structure?" he pokes good-naturedly at Succotash. "I'm looking forward to meeting with wizards of the post-midnight snack club, too."

Miscellany
"So, Pressi, should we raise children first, or broccoli?" He does sense she is feeling perhaps, a bit weary? Somewhat out of sorts? "What can I do for you, hon? Anything in particular on your mind?"

"Tali - after we finish this transplanar treaty, what would you like to do next? Should a few of us join together to solve the mystery of your origins, your family? I wonder if that remarkable couple in Hovel might have picked up more clues on that."

"Hey, gang, when we get back home, let's see if we can look up some of the folks who were earlier part of the group. Like Bliss and Mookie, Hobie, Shel, Podo, Odo, Tendel, Alleah, Jack, and so on."

For Nik & Pru he says, "And I'm sure we've love to meet some of your earlier adventuring companions before too long."

[OOC: I worked 3.5 shifts in two days... no time to post, and no access at work.]

DM Mitch The final Battle Map  
Wednesday August 31st, 2022 8:28:46 AM
Succotash wonders how one can be forced to worship on a schedule and asks the first priest he comes across that it has been his experience that devotion is voluntary and asks that priest to enlighten him.
Kezzem begins making a schedule for his own prayers or for eating but the schedule is merely a guideline.
Pressi asks about praying on a schedule and says if she doesn’t blood will escape into this plane and damage everyone around her also moon and cauldron stuff. She claims the weirdest culture title.
Nikolai likens the praying on schedule similar to how the fist has its members eat in shifts so he figures the prayer shifts are similar.
Murphy pays for the goods and for replacing what was bought for the festival. He makes a map in his head and a drawing on canvas. He comments on schedules and on what to do in retirement.

Succotash finds a friendly giant priest named Father Gronk. Father Gronk says to Succotash, “Well everyone living here is literally living here through the will of Fhorge. He attuned the artifact to Himself and created this haven for our kind. Everyone living here wants to give thanks to Fhorge for their home so we had to come up with the schedule to service everyone as your mercenary friend surmised.”

“Furthermore Fhorge is who gave us life and purpose. At the dawn of our people we were the guardians who kept all from the jails above. We kept all from intruding on the sacred mountain and built great works to ensure none of the ancient evils trapped in it could be freed or influence the world. Sadly over the years many of our kind have lost their way, becoming focused on their cruelty and hatred of other races and leaving, and intrusions of outsiders became impossible to stop fully. Only we few remain to keep the charge, hidden away here where we work to destroy any so foolish as to worship or try to free the imprisoned ones.”

The party is able to explore the other districts. The merchant district is lively and active now, with sales taking place of all manner of things and there is indeed haggling. The great forges are active, with the ringing of hammer on metal echoing through the craftsmen’s quarter. They are able to observe the military district where drills and training take place where they see fine equipment and great discipline and skill displayed, enough to make even the Mailed Fist envious. Finally they are able to see a park district, an area where great works of art are on display and many tools for relaxation or play are available. It seems even as hard and dedicated as the giants are they do know the importance of relaxing on occasion.

Overall it is a grand and impressive city, fit to match many of the greats of the noble races, though far smaller. The only thing that might spoil the tour is the constant reminder of the slavery that occurs here. They are everywhere, in the background, working in all manner of ways. It seems that the giants focus is on crafting and militant activities for the most part, leaving other activities to their slaves. Everything from cleaning to orginizing supplies. Some slaves seem well off - those proven loyal and intelligent enough to be trusted with important tasks. In the temple and noble districts you see well off slaves attending priests, giant families, even some of the lesser temples, well fed and acting as any well to do servant might.

Others, those only useful for physical labor, those not trusted by the giants, or those who happen to serve cruel masters, look undernourished and overworked. The giants, for the most part, don’t seem to be intentionally cruel to their lessers, but they neglect them and expect perfect obedience, punishing those who fail, raising up those who succeed, and overall caring little for them beyond what use they can provide to the cause.


Succotash (Jeremy) AC 43(42)/18/40 CMD 25 HP 142/142 Valerie AC 41(40)/16/34 CMD 34 HP 170(143)/170(143)Spells 
Wednesday August 31st, 2022 11:29:59 AM
"Thank you Father Gronk, your words make sense. I never realized giant kind were created by the gods to guard the ancient ones' prison, it makes me sad that so many of your kin have abandoned such a noble calling. Even those of your kind who claim to be a "good" race, whatever that is, such as Storm Giants, have abandoned the cause. It's been my experience that people of so called "good" races are capable of great evil, and those of so called "evil" races have done great good, and the proof is here. A so called "evil" race is doing a good that so called "good" races refrain from. Thank you again, this has been enlightening."

As they continue on, Succotash once again is struck by the depravity that is slavery. He would like nothing better than to free all of these poor wretches. Even those who live life large are still without the one thing even the poorest of the rest of the intelligent races have, and that is freedom. He manages to bite his tongue as he is reminded that Fire Giants are still an evil race.

Tali (JonPaul) AC:42 (T:38, FF:36), CMD:, Saves:(F:20/R:22/W:25), HP:135/135 
Wednesday August 31st, 2022 7:11:53 PM
Observing what happens above also happens below

Tali hovers along visiting and sightseeing but stays silent most of the time.

Prudence Komonov [AC 28; HP 194/194] 
Wednesday August 31st, 2022 7:48:03 PM
Pru frowns a little at all the evidence of slavery. Giants were cruel. It was in their nature. This shouldn't be surprising, yet somehow Pru is disappointed in her hosts.

But as an outsider--and a tiny outsider at that--she realizes she is in no position to change anything.

"Let's go back to the temple," she whispers to Nikolai.

Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 47 Tch 39 Ffted 40 HP 175/175 CMD 52/54(Grapple/Trip/Disarm)  
Wednesday August 31st, 2022 7:52:21 PM
In the merchant district Nikolai looks for a piece of jewelry that befits his flameboyant wife. A gift suitable as a second wedding gift. All the jewelry is giant sized, of course, but he makes sure the item he purchases can be magically reduced permanently and still hold its artistic value.

He pays for the item and its reduction and plans to give to her at the giant's ceremony.

OOC: just let me know what the item is (style of jewelry and materials), how much for the total, and the cost to magically shrink it to human size. It will most likely have a distinctive Fire Giant motive of sort and made for a stylish female fire giant.

BTW, did you know...Flamboyant, which was borrowed into English from French in the 19th century, can be traced back to Old French flambe, meaning "flame." In its earliest uses flamboyant referred to a style of architecture, often in the florid French Gothic style, which featured waving curves that suggested flames. Eventually, the word developed a more general second sense for anything eye-catching or showy. And of course, Old French flambe is also the origin of the English adjective flambé.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 27; HP 193/276; DR 5/evil 
Wednesday August 31st, 2022 10:25:53 PM
"Is it time to eat yet?" asks Kezzem. "Let me check my schedule."

Kezzem takes out a piece of paper. It just says: Eat whenever you are hungry or otherwise feel like it.

"Yes, it's time to eat. Look at me being all organized now."



Murphy Halfling Druid (KimMc) AC 40/T29/F35 HP 219+14/219 
Thursday September 1st, 2022 1:39:03 AM

Murphy asks Father Gronk if there are songs and chants about Fhorge. "Can someone teach me?" he asks.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC (33) 29, HP 217, CMD (30) 27; Harper AC 35, HP 117, CMD 35 
Thursday September 1st, 2022 5:45:58 AM
Pressi continues to behave herself as well. We're a long way from the sharp tongued monk that she used to be in the old days.

Almost.

"So... Can I inquire exactly how you managed to get such a large slavery force? As an insular city supposedly built around protecting a single point I mean."



DM Mitch The final Battle Map  
Thursday September 1st, 2022 8:23:27 AM
Succotash thanks Father Gronk for explaining the giant’s calling. He gives a philosophical take on the nature of good and evil and what so called “good” and “evil” races are capable of. After that he takes in the sights and he is saddened by the slavery around him wishing he could free them but he is reminded that the giants are an evil race.
Tali hovers around and sight sees
Pru frowns at the evidence of slavery. She sees the cruelness of giants in their nature yet somehow Pru is disappointed in their hosts. She suggests they head back to the temple.
Nikolai purchases a rather large ruby pendant with a mithril backing etched with scenes of a volcano and fiery lava on the reverse side.
The ruby is considered a grand jewel worth at least 5,000 gold pieces and the jewelry backing is considered precious worth at least 500 gold pieces. The cost of a permanent shrink item spell is 330 for the base shrink item spell and 550 for the permanency spell with 7,500 gold needed in diamond dust as the material component cost for a grand total of 13,880 gold pieces. Your share of the cult of Skald’s treasure is more than enough to cover that gift.
Kezzem asks if it is time to eat yet taking out a piece of paper that tells him to eat whenever he feels like it as his schedule. He says it is time to eat now and that he is all organized.
Murphy learns some local chants and songs.
Pressi asks about how they even got so many slaves.

Pressi is able to learn that the giants constantly send out patrols to capture any who they can find trespassing on the sacred mountain or near any of the prisons. The slaves are also allowed to have relations and generally kept healthy, so their numbers have gone up over the centuries to their current count.

It is clarified that the fire giants were made to serve Fhorge, not all giants.

With the city explored it is in fact time to eat and rest before the ceremony the next day. The high priest himself shares dinner with you, along with many important functionaries of the giants. With their military bent that means a lot of generals and soldiers, from the overall head of the military to various highly skilled special forces. There’s a small priest contingent of about 4 priests, 3 of Fhorge and 1 of Domi, and also a single wizard. The party is spread out across the table so that all the giants are near enough to a party member to chat with them and get to know the heroes that saved their city.

The party is shown to their guest rooms, which are a bit oversized for them. It seems the giants don’t usually have non-giant guests, and though efforts were made to adjust the rooms for their confort they had to be done quickly. This means that the party gets huge sized beds that someone made little staircases next to so that they can actually get into them.


Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 27; HP 193/276; DR 5/evil 
Thursday September 1st, 2022 11:40:22 AM
Kezzem is surprised to see a priest of Domi amongst the giants.

"I was not expecting to encounter a priest that did not worship Fhorge, let alone one with a place of honor and respect," says Kezzem to the cleric. "That last fire giant that worshiped a deity other than Fhorge that we met was...not so well considered. How did you come to worship Domi and earn the acceptance of your brethren?"


Prudence Komonov [AC 28; HP 194/194] 
Thursday September 1st, 2022 3:22:45 PM
Pru chats amiably with her hosts during dinner.

Tali (JonPaul) AC:42 (T:38, FF:36), CMD:, Saves:(F:20/R:22/W:25), HP:135/135 
Thursday September 1st, 2022 8:42:49 PM
Tali speaks in both friendly & diplomatic tones to all the hosts that inquire about her role in saving the city, while enjoying the feast.

When it’s time to retire for the evening, Tali flys up & over to position herself comfortably on the seriously over-sized bed!

Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 47 Tch 39 Ffted 40 HP 175/175 CMD 52/54(Grapple/Trip/Disarm)  
Thursday September 1st, 2022 11:36:29 PM
Nikolai sits next to Pru. He tells the fire giants of the frost giants of Shadow Mountain and what went on there recently. He asks if they had heard about that incident and how the Mailed Fist uncovered the true source of the problem and managed to get the Hawkmen, Griffons, and Frost Giants to make peace.

At a lull in the chatting, Nikolai presents Pru with his Fire Giant jewelry present and gives her a kiss.

Murphy Halfling Druid (KimMc) AC 40/T29/F35 HP 219+14/219 
Friday September 2nd, 2022 3:20:33 AM

Murphy hears the answer to his wife's question about the status of slavery here. He wonders what stories he might hear from those enslaved.

At dinner, Murphy would prefer to sit with, or at least in earshot of Pressi. He asks about foods he is unfamiliar with, trying each - or at least most, in case there is anything one might deem particularly out of bounds.

He learns the names of those sitting near them. He asks about the political structure and hierarchy of the plane. He inquires about dancing - do they do that? And do they have a library in the city?

DM Mitch The final Battle Map  
Friday September 2nd, 2022 8:06:54 AM
Kezzem asks about the priest of Domi. He is told that worship of other gods is fine as long as it is in service to the more important god, Fhorge. ”After all, how could our warriors fight without the blessings of Domi’s courage?”
Prudance chat’s amiably
Tali discusses things diplomatically.
Nikolai tells a story of the frost giants of shadow mountain.
Murphy asks questions about names, hierarchy, and social activities. They do dance sometimes and they do have libraries.

After a good night’s rest Humble’s Sword is awoken and segregated by the giants into 2 groups.

One group consists of Murphy, Kezzem, Succotash, and Nikolai
The other group consists of Pressi, Pru and Tali.

Each group is lead by fire giant attendants in fine livery to separate gender segregated bath houses.

The temperature of the water is very warm and the attendants beckon you to disrobe so they can bathe and anoint you with holy oils.

After that is done the attendants dry you with soft luxurious towels and present you with clean, size appropriate loin cloths for both groups and a sort of a sleeveless leather halter top to protect the modesty of the females.

After you are dressed the attendants start to braid your hair. They weave fine designs into your hair incorporating things like fire opals and obsidian into the designs.
When that is done the attendants leave. Other attendants beckon you to leave the area and rejoin the rest of your party in a common area now that you have been bathed, dressed and hairstyled.

New attendants enter into this common room though they have holy giant and giantesses with them. The attendants are carrying jars of paint of various colors.

The lead holy giant says, “For the friend of Fhorge ceremony everyone must have the volcano sigil of Fhorge in red prominently displayed in their design but we also recognize the individual so you are encouraged to use a variety of paints and other designs to show to us who you are as our honorary clan mates. We suggest either high woldian, old draconic or old giant if you are going to add more sigils though freeform pictographs are allowed, just don’t violate the integrity of the volcano sigil of Fhorge with your own personal designs. Typically folks choose a prominent place for the Fhorge sigil either one side of their face, their entire face, their forehead, chest, belly, back or either upper arm. Once you’ve sorted that out the rest of your body is up to you. These paints are magic and they fade to the tone of your skin color when not in Fhorge’s pocket realm. While here though the tribal paint reveals itself in all its colorful glory. After tonight’s blessing the magical effects of planar adaptation, enlarge person and resist fire 20 will also activate while you are in Fhorge’s pocket realm. While you are outside the pocket realm and the paint is hidden the blessings are not active, however you can activate the blessing once per day outside of Fhorge’s realm for up to 20 minutes. While the blessing is active the tribal paint is visible as are its effects. Please note that not all outsider giants are friendly to our clan so if you think to activate the blessing in order to gain a diplomatic advantage with some giant group you may happen to meet in the Wold at large it may have the opposite effect of what you intended.”

The attendants remove the lids from all the jars and set them out on the table with a variety of artistic implements for applying the paint.

Each one of you has your own holy giant or holy giantess near you holding a jar of red paint that resembles the color of molten lava.

The lead holy giant says, “Tell your nearest clergy member where you want your holy sigil of Fhorge applied and they’ll make it so.”

(OOC: in your next post please include where on your PC’s body you requested the holy giant / giantess assigned to you to apply the holy volcano sigil of Fhorge. Also describe the additional colors, patterns, sigils and pictographs you worked into your tribal paint designs)


Prudence Komonov [AC 28; HP 194/194] 
Friday September 2nd, 2022 10:35:25 PM
Pru rather enjoys her bath. Her hair takes a very long time to braid, especially if the giants are determined to do it up all fancy.

When the time comes to get painted, Pru indicates the left side of her face. "And I'd like a flame next to it," she says. "A kind of stylized, twisting flame."

Pressi (Melvin) - AC (33) 29, HP 217, CMD (30) 27; Harper AC 35, HP 117, CMD 35 
Friday September 2nd, 2022 10:58:07 PM

Pressi meshes with the giants well enough, a gal with her own military training and diplomatic abilities. She goes through the dinner politely, checks the rooms before bed, and wakes up with her daily rituals.

It takes all her willpower to push down the first thought she had of where to put another "tatoo." Her arms already adorned with tatoos, she decides to place the painting on her back.

Tali (JonPaul) AC:42 (T:38, FF:36), CMD:, Saves:(F:20/R:22/W:25), HP:135/135 
Saturday September 3rd, 2022 12:27:30 AM
Still, thinking....but it will involve old Woldian for sure.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 27; HP 193/276; DR 5/evil 
Saturday September 3rd, 2022 12:49:34 AM
Kezzem will get his tattoo on his chest with a firebird motiff.

Murphy Halfling Druid (KimMc) AC 40/T29/F35 HP 219+14/219 
Saturday September 3rd, 2022 4:03:43 PM

Murphy opts to have the symbol on his upper left arm, text in High Woldian, with an oak tree, acorn and ivy motif.

DM Mitch The final Battle Map  
Saturday September 3rd, 2022 5:13:18 PM
The party considers their tattoos and several make decisions.

Tali (JonPaul) AC:42 (T:38, FF:36), CMD:, Saves:(F:20/R:22/W:25), HP:135/135 
Saturday September 3rd, 2022 7:11:03 PM
Mystery & Force

I would like to add Mystery and Force Woldian Symbols for Magic (arcane) along with the Sigil. I would like the Tribal Paint on my right upper arm, and the Wold Woldian Symbols on my left upper arm. For paint colors, all the colors that are available as if trying to recreate the colors of a Prismatic Sphere around the Woldian Symbol for Mystery & Force. Thank you.



DM Mitch The final Battle Map  
Monday September 5th, 2022 10:38:48 AM
The Holy Giants and Giantesses listen to the plans of the members of Humble’s Sword (well those that gave an answer)

They do have follow up questions for some of you.

The Holy Giantess assigned to Pru says, “So you want the volcano sigil of Fhorge to be on the left side of your face and a stylized dancing flame on your right. Is there anything else you want in your design?”

The Holy Giantess assigned to Pressi says, “So you want it on your back so it doesn’t conflict with your other tatoos? Is there anything else you want to add besides the Fhorge sigil?”

The Holy Giant assigned to Kezzem says, “Do you mean to enclose the holy volcano sigil of Fhorge inside a stylized sunbird motif? I believe that should be acceptable.”

The Holy Giant assigned to Murphy says, “So you want the Volcano Sigil on your upper left arm with an oak tree, acorn and ivy motif in high woldian trailing down your arm?”

The Holy Giantess assigned to Tali says, “So you will take the volcano sigil of Fhorge on right upper arm and do a Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue, Indigo, Violet sphere surrounding the high Woldian Sigil for Mystery and Force.

(OOC: please finalize designs and get any corrections made in your personal section of the design communicated to the Holy giants and giantesses.)


Prudence Komonov [AC 28; HP 194/194] 
Monday September 5th, 2022 6:41:15 PM
"No, just the volcano and the flame," Pru says firmly. Simple is best.

Tali (JonPaul) AC:42 (T:38, FF:36), CMD:, Saves:(F:20/R:22/W:25), HP:135/135 
Monday September 5th, 2022 8:49:34 PM
Tali confirms for the Holy Giantess, the volcano sigil of Fhorge on right upper arm and do a Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue, Indigo, Violet sphere surrounding the high Woldian Sigil for Mystery and Force", please.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC (33) 29, HP 217, CMD (30) 27; Harper AC 35, HP 117, CMD 35 
Monday September 5th, 2022 9:30:33 PM

Pressi nods in agreement. "And... how about a black dragon as well."

She thinks for a second. "And... what's the old giant word for family again?"

Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 47 Tch 39 Ffted 40 HP 175/175 CMD 52/54(Grapple/Trip/Disarm)  
Tuesday September 6th, 2022 12:26:11 AM
Nikolai has the volcano sigil on the left side of his neck and the Mailed Fist sigil on the right side of his neck.

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 43(42)/18/40 CMD 25 HP 142/142 Valerie AC 41(40)/16/34 CMD 34 HP 170(143)/170(143)Spells 
Tuesday September 6th, 2022 1:08:39 AM
"Besides the Volcano of Fhorge, I would like the holy symbols of the various gods of the Wold, whom I serve equally, scattered about my body. If that would be to much, I would settle for the Old Woldian sigils of the gods. Please use the favored colors of the represented deity."

Murphy Halfling Druid (KimMc) AC 40/T29/F35 HP 219+14/219 
Tuesday September 6th, 2022 4:10:13 AM

“So you want the Volcano Sigil on your upper left arm with an oak tree, acorn, and ivy motif in high woldian trailing down your arm?”

"Yes, please," Murphy answers, then elaborates. "For the oak tree, show it in autumnal coloring, with leaves of mixed dark green, light green, yellows, orange, and red. Let the reds, yellows and orange reflect some of the colors of the Volcano. Ivy will climb the trunk of the tree. The roots will spread around the lower bicep, and will surround a trio of acorns in the center of the root mass, with a small clear area around the acorns."

"In High Woldian, above the volcano at the top of the shoulder, 'Volcano of Power', on the outside of the arm the symbols representing 'Heart of Love', and on the inside of the arm 'Cycles of Life', and just above the inner fold of the elbow 'Rooted in Redemption'."

As an approximate example of the oak tree and ivy vines, see this tapestry. If that link breaks, try here. For the acorns, something like this, though surrounded by a tiny border of clear skin, not blackness.

Murphy takes a few minutes to sketch out his ideas, but tells the painter, "This is your skill, your craft, so be guided by your own artistic sensibilities. This is just to give you a fair idea of what I seek." He does ask the artist's name (or artists, if there are more than one), and thanks him, or her, or them. He minds with interest the work being done for his friends, too, and asks about the paints, and how they are sourced, and, if they will tell, how they are magicked.

He chats with his companions as the work is being done. "Shall we add a shrine to Fhorge at the Sanctuary?"

Murphy Halfling Druid (KimMc) AC 40/T29/F35 HP 219+14/219 
Tuesday September 6th, 2022 4:13:35 AM

Bread Surprises
Let us say that Murphy left with his brother and cohort Kendry a portable hole and large bag of holding, and that the bard promised to deliver the two extra-dimensional devices to the giants at the platform at a set time, shortly before the feast, with clear instructions to them that there be no intermingling of the two devices. He also would be sure that instructions were left with their hosts to have a pair of guards waiting for Kendry at the set time, so as to get the items to Murphy, who will then arrange to have them delivered to the master of the banquet. Within the bag and hole are frameworks designed to hold the multiplicity of small round loaves of bread, each with its own special filling (such as vegetables, meats, or both, others with fruits (e.g., cinnamon apples, pears, banana in thick cream, berries, melons, etc.), jams, nuts, sweets such as chocolate, marzipan, and so forth.

He will want to address those at the banquet as the bread surprises begin to be distributed... which can wait until we get to that part of the story.

DM Mitch The final Battle Map  
Tuesday September 6th, 2022 9:34:17 AM
Prudance clarifies what she wants.
Tali requests a high woldian sigil
Pressi suggests a black dragon and asks about old giant words
Nikolai goes for two sigils
Succotash asks for a bunch of sigils
Murphy sketches his ideas but will consult the expert. He reflects on how he got all the food to here for the feast.

The holy giantess serving Pressis says, “I think we can just fit the sigil below the halter top, with a black dragon and high giant word for family below it.” She begins working on the design Pressi specified

The holy giantess serving Pru says, “As you wish.” Even though it is a simple design the giantess still takes her time in creating it.
The holy giantess serving Tali says, “Sigil on one arm, prismatic sphere enclosing high woldian for force and mystery on the other, got it.” She then starts working on the design.

The holy giants assisting the men also begin work considering what Murphy and Kezzem requested are doable.

After some adjustments the giants soon have sketches of everyone’s tattoo requests and ask for any final changes.


Succotash (Jeremy) AC 43(42)/18/40 CMD 25 HP 142/142 Valerie AC 41(40)/16/34 CMD 34 HP 170(143)/170(143)Spells 
Tuesday September 6th, 2022 12:09:14 PM
"I'm comfortable with the final rendering, thank you very much. This should do nicely."

Prudence Komonov [AC 28; HP 194/194] 
Tuesday September 6th, 2022 3:18:43 PM
Pru smiles. "That will do nicely, thank you." She smiles because the artist drew the volcano just a little bit taller than the flame, and she's pretty sure that's not a coincidence. But she doesn't mind giving Fhorge top billing in his own holy painting.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC (33) 29, HP 217, CMD (30) 27; Harper AC 35, HP 117, CMD 35 
Tuesday September 6th, 2022 8:54:51 PM

Pressi waits patiently for her artist to finish.



Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 27; HP 193/276; DR 5/evil 
Tuesday September 6th, 2022 9:17:39 PM
Kezzem is happy with his tattoo.

Tali (JonPaul) AC:42 (T:38, FF:36), CMD:, Saves:(F:20/R:22/W:25), HP:135/135 
Tuesday September 6th, 2022 9:41:20 PM
Tribal Ink

Tali is so excited to be a recipient of these awesome designs...Sigil on one arm, prismatic sphere enclosing high woldian for force and mystery on the other! Tali can hardly sit still as she hovers above the ground.

Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 47 Tch 39 Ffted 40 HP 175/175 CMD 52/54(Grapple/Trip/Disarm)  
Wednesday September 7th, 2022 12:06:00 AM
As the tattoo artist works on Nikolai, he starts putting together his report to the Mailed Fist archivist.

Murphy Halfling Druid (KimMc) AC 40/T29/F35 HP 219+14/219 
Wednesday September 7th, 2022 4:13:19 AM

"Good sketch, let's do it!" Murphy says. He sets up a mirror nearby so he can observe the techniques used. Again, he asks the name of the giant (or giants) who work on his tattoo. "You can put your initials or mark somewhere on the arm, too. Maybe work it into a portion of the design."

DM Mitch The final Battle Map  
Wednesday September 7th, 2022 9:33:15 AM
Since everyone has finalized their tribal paint the holy giants and giantess start applying the same designs they just sketched onto the bodies of the various members of Humble’s Sword.
They manage to deliver everything requested from Murphy’s complicated design to Pru’s simplistic one and everything in between including Succotash’s various Sigils for the Gods of the Wold.
When they are done the lead Holy Giant says, “It will take about an hour for the paint to dry. Please do not move lest you spoil the designs.”

After waiting an hour a single attendant comes and the party is gathered in a rather large tent. You can hear quite a din outside the tent. The instructions you have been given is to wait for your adventuring party to be called and then emerge from the tent.

Suddenly things get really quiet and you hear the High Priest say, “Denizens of Fhorge Pocket Realm I give you Humble’s Sword, saviors of our existence and Friends of Fhorge!”
That is your queue.


Succotash (Jeremy) AC 43(42)/18/40 CMD 25 HP 142/142 Valerie AC 41(40)/16/34 CMD 34 HP 170(143)/170(143)Spells 
Wednesday September 7th, 2022 10:28:08 AM
Succotash walks in boldly, with a big smile on his face. He has Valerie by his side, with a hand on her shoulder. He waves to the crowd, in a friendly gesture.

Murphy Halfling Druid (KimMc) AC 40/T29/F35 HP 219+14/219 
Wednesday September 7th, 2022 1:56:25 PM

"Pressi, shall we have a bold entrance? How about you go dragon, I go air elemental, then we fly together, with a maneuver wherein you fly upwards, I loop around you, then we descend to the platform, land, then return to our own forms, and raise each other's hand together?"

If she is amenable to such, he joins together with her for the flying entrance.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 27; HP 193/276; DR 5/evil  d20+23=42 ;
Wednesday September 7th, 2022 3:55:17 PM
"Wait, I can't move for a whole hour?" says Kezzem in horror. "I was not informed that this was part of deal!"

Kezzem will nonetheless do his best to stay still for the hour, and somehow manages to do so.

SV Will: 1d20 + 23 = 42.

Tali (JonPaul) AC:42 (T:38, FF:36), CMD:, Saves:(F:20/R:22/W:25), HP:135/135 
Wednesday September 7th, 2022 7:16:07 PM
[U][B]Our Queue[B][U]

When Tali hears the que, she hovers through the curtain. Into the light!

Pressi (Melvin) - AC (33) 29, HP 217, CMD (30) 27; Harper AC 35, HP 117, CMD 35 
Wednesday September 7th, 2022 9:36:24 PM

"I think it would be nice to give them a show."

With Shapechange, she can easily reach the size of a huge black dragon, though she's careful to fly more acrobatically than aggressively. Nothing that will get the team killed.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC (33) 29, HP 217, CMD (30) 27; Harper AC 35, HP 117, CMD 35 
Wednesday September 7th, 2022 9:38:36 PM
(With permission from the high priestess and the guards before casting a single spell, of course. The chance to show off is superseded by the chance that they will cause a diplomatic incident or public freakout.)

Prudence Komonov [AC 28; HP 194/194] 
Wednesday September 7th, 2022 10:24:18 PM
So, is Pru still wearing a leather bikini? Or were we allowed to put our own clothes back on? That's going to make a difference in how she enters.

Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 47 Tch 39 Ffted 40 HP 175/175 CMD 52/54(Grapple/Trip/Disarm)  
Thursday September 8th, 2022 12:47:04 AM
OOC: actually, we are inside the tent.
' the party is gathered in a rather large tent.'

Nikolai holds Pru's hand as they exit the tent together.

DM Mitch The final Battle Map  
Thursday September 8th, 2022 8:03:09 AM
The members of Humble’s Sword emerge from the tent as they are called.

Some merely walk out, while others fly or in the case of Pressi and Murphy they give their new adoptive tribe a show by flying out in the form of an air elemental and black dragon before returning to their normal forms.

The crowd cheers loudly as each member of Humble’s Sword steps out and claps after Murphy and Pressi’s little demonstration.

After everyone has emerged from the tent and taken their places of honor at the center of the gathering you see that you are standing on a stone floor with a bed of coals laid out before you.
After your entrance the High Priest calls out “Denizens of Fhorge’s Pocket Realm, Once again I present to you Humble’s Sword, Friends of Fhorge and honorary clan members.”

The crowd roars

The High Priest then turns to you and says, “Humble’s Sword. Walk the coals and receive Fhorge’s blessing!”

The coals are spread out before you, a veritable red carpet for you to walk. Over the end there is an arch decorated with the holy sigils of Fhorge.

Beyond that appears to be the feasting area so it looks like the ceremony is designed to be somewhat of a short one providing you can walk the coals, the ceremony is complete, you will have received Fhorge’s blessing and can partake in the feast laid out in your honors.


Murphy Halfling Druid (KimMc) AC 40/T29/F35 HP 219+14/219 
Thursday September 8th, 2022 10:28:39 AM

Murphy, hand in hand with Pressi, walks the coals.

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 43(42)/18/40 CMD 25 HP 142/142 Valerie AC 41(40)/16/34 CMD 34 HP 170(143)/170(143)Spells 
Thursday September 8th, 2022 11:18:20 AM
Succotash tells Valerie to wait where she is, and than follows Murphy and Pressi across the coals.

Murphy Halfling Druid (KimMc) AC 40/T29/F35 HP 219+14/219 
Thursday September 8th, 2022 12:44:28 PM

Murphy mentally speaks with Tali. "I think this is one where you'll need to have your feet touching down, Tali. See you on the other side!"

Prudence Komonov [AC 28; HP 194/194] 
Thursday September 8th, 2022 3:25:11 PM
Pru has nothing to fear from fire. She walks across the coals.

[OOC: The leather bikini question was serious. What are we wearing?]

Tali (JonPaul) AC:42 (T:38, FF:36), CMD:, Saves:(F:20/R:22/W:25), HP:135/135 
Thursday September 8th, 2022 4:07:49 PM
Walking the Coals...

Tali returns to the Earth, and promptly walks across the red hot coals just as her teammates have done. She joins them in the assembled area.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC (33) 29, HP 217, CMD (30) 27; Harper AC 35, HP 117, CMD 35 
Thursday September 8th, 2022 8:56:45 PM

Pressi takes a minute to remember that the tatoo grants fire resist.

Hand and hand with Murphy, she purposefully walks across the coals, in what is probably her normal outfit.

Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 47 Tch 39 Ffted 40 HP 175/175 CMD 52/54(Grapple/Trip/Disarm)  
Friday September 9th, 2022 12:47:46 AM
Nikolai walks across the coals holding Pru's hand. Pru's Mailed Fist Issue Leather Bikini is the Best! The envy of all mercenary organizations in the entire Wold!

DM Mitch The final Battle Map  
Friday September 9th, 2022 5:57:42 AM
Murphy crosses with his wife and tells Tali she should probably land for this.
Succotash leaves Valerie behind to walk.
Prudence has nothing to fear and crosses (see below)
Tali lands and walks across.
Pressi reminds herself of the tatoo’s protection and crosses
Nikolai holds Pru’s hand as they cross.

(OOC: Everyone is still wearing the clothing put on them when the attendants first got them; apparently the outfit is part of the ceremony. Per last Friday’s post: “After that is done the attendants dry you with soft luxurious towels and present you with clean, size appropriate loin cloths for both groups and a sort of a sleeveless leather halter top to protect the modesty of the females.”

The attendants and tattoo artists were named Katig, Dlofles, and Tesrien)

Either singularly or in small groups the members of Humble Sword walk the coals.

As you start your procession across the coals the tribal paint you have been given starts to glow.

As you reach the arch it bursts into flames but in a non-harmful celebratory way.

The crowd gives another cheer as each member of the Humble’s Sword crosses the fiery arch and enters the feasting ground.

After you have completed the coal walking you notice that there is a tent on the other side of it between you and the feast.

One of the attendants walks up to you and says, “If you’d like to change into clothing you are more accustomed to we have brought your belongings to that tent where you will have the privacy to change.”

Changing time is allowed and then it is off to the feast.

The feast is quite the spread. There are a several wooden kegs filled with a variety of wines and beer.
There are several roast oxes, several roasted pigs, multiple Tur-duck-ens and even a hydra.

Each meet selection is also available skewered on a stick. Apparently someone told the giants about Kezzem’s fondness for meat on a stick.

There is the bread delegation contributed by Humbles Ford as well as a variety of large rolls and flatbread that the giants contributed.

There are also several vegetable dishes, cheese dishes, fruit dishes.

The desert layout is also impressive with a variety of pastries, cakes, tarts, cookies, mouses and puddings.

Apparently the giants of the pocket realm are just as big of foodies as halflings are if given the proper motivation. It isn’t every day that the tribe adds new honorary members.

After everyone has been given a chance to at least find a drink

The high priest raises a mug filled with beer of some kind and says, “A toast to Humble’s Sword! Honorary members of our tribe and unlikely saviors of our existence! Hip Hip Hooray!”


Succotash (Jeremy) AC 43(42)/18/40 CMD 25 HP 142/142 Valerie AC 41(40)/16/34 CMD 34 HP 170(143)/170(143)Spells 
Friday September 9th, 2022 1:30:11 PM
Succotash quickly changes into his usual green clergy robes, with the holy symbols of the Woldian gods embroidered in gold.

At the feast, Succotash puts the hurt on the buffet table, like only a halfling can. He makes sure to take plenty of extra to "accidentally"knock some off the table for Valerie.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 27; HP 193/276; DR 5/evil 
Friday September 9th, 2022 2:30:56 PM
"And hip hip horrray for the food!" says Kezzem as dives in.

Prudence Komonov [AC 28; HP 194/194] 
Friday September 9th, 2022 4:15:02 PM
Pru feels more comfortable back in her Robe of the Archmage. She tries to sample as many of the dishes as possible without making herself sick.

Murphy Halfling Druid (KimMc) AC 40/T29/F35 HP 219+14/219  d20+46=49 ; d20+46=52 ; d20+46=47 ; d20+15=25 ; d20+32=41 ;
Sunday September 11th, 2022 5:16:28 PM

Murphy works to figure out the gender and any other salient characteristics for Katig, Dlofles, and Tesrien. He asks how they learned their craft. As the procedure occurs, he talks briefly about some of the things he has drawn and painted, and thanks them for their care. He takes in their faces, clothing, and tools, with a mind toward making a portrait of them later from memory. [Perception / memory for each one for later portrait: K-49, D-52, T-47]

The towhead druid joins his friends in recladding himself. He leaves some of his gear back where they changed, and asked those in charge to hold it for him until he returns from the feasting. What he needs to carry can be handled in his pair of Bill's Splendid Pants O' Plenty, and the returned portable hole.

Murphy joins in the toast, raising his own mug toward the priest, the other fire giants, and his friends, and takes a drink.

He clears a spot, and stands up upon the table before him. Murphy Leafwin Pipewood projects as loudly as he might in his tenor voice, "First, many compliments to the chefs today. Many fine, fine foods. I have never before tasted hydra! Nicely done! We hope you enjoy the surprises you'll find in the wee loaves of break baked by our halfing friends. Last, to you all, guardians over those hidden away, three cheers are called for. Raise your mugs now: A toast to them, to you, and friendship between our peoples, great and small alike. Hip hip hooray! Hip Hip Hooray! HIP HIP, HOORAAAAAY!"

==============
Oratory: 25
Diplomacy: 41

Pressi (Melvin) - AC (33) 29, HP 217, CMD (30) 27; Harper AC 35, HP 117, CMD 35 
Sunday September 11th, 2022 9:02:53 PM

After changing into her more ceremonial clothing, she too begins the feast.

Not feeling quite ready to make her own toasts yet, Pressi instead takes the time to look over the giants and of her own team. To feel as to all that has gone over so far.

Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 47 Tch 39 Ffted 40 HP 175/175 CMD 52/54(Grapple/Trip/Disarm)  
Monday September 12th, 2022 1:04:43 AM
Nikolai puts on his Mailed Fist Knight Commander uniform and is glad to see Pru back in her mage robes. Not that he minded the bikini, he just was a little uncomfortable sharing the visual.

Nikolai enjoys the food, trying different looking things, hoping that they are acceptable to civilized society, knowing that some giant kind eat just about any kind of meat.

DM Mitch The final Battle Map  
Monday September 12th, 2022 8:35:56 AM
Succotash changes clothing and gets lots of food, including enough to feed Valerie
Kezzem is just excited for food.
Pru feels more comfortable in her own clothing and she samples as much as she can.
Murphy talks with the giants who attended them for the tattoos and gives a toast.
Pressi changes and doesn’t feel ready to talk so just observes.
Nikolai puts on his Mailed Fist uniform and is a bit careful about what food he eats.

The food is well prepared and the giants really pulled out all the stops it seems like. The mean of many rare and powerful beasts are served up, and it seems sometimes their attitude towards spices are as fiery as their beards. Even things the giants consider mild or unspicy have a bit more kick then the average halfling entrée.

Katig, a male, says to Murphy “Well my father was an attendant so I just kind of got into the family business.”

Dlofles, a female, says to Murphy, “I’m an artiste. The temple has the best paints so I petitioned for them to be my patron and they accepted me.”

Tesrien, a male, says to Murphy, “Well I’m a cleric of Fhorge first and artist second. However since any ceremony is kind of a big deal I always want to make sure I do it right.”

The various members of Humble’s Sword predominantly dig into the spread. Kezzem toasts the food.

After the high priest goes a few other giant dignitaries offer some words and glasses are raised yet again.

(Sense Motive DC 10 - Highlight to display spoiler: {You get the impression that the other dignitaries are stalling for time and more and more giants are starting to look for the members of Humble’s Sword to give their own toasts}


Succotash (Jeremy) AC 43(42)/18/40 CMD 25 HP 142/142 Valerie AC 41(40)/16/34 CMD 34 HP 170(143)/170(143)Spells  d20+19=31 ; d20+39=47 ;
Monday September 12th, 2022 10:26:41 AM
Sense Motive: 31

Succotash recognizes that the giants are stalling, and whispers to whichever Sword is closest, "Keep your eyes peeled, they seem to be stalling, and I'm not sure if that is a good thing or not."

Perception: 47

Prudence Komonov [AC 28; HP 194/194]  d20+1=6 ;
Monday September 12th, 2022 2:44:41 PM
Pru munches on, oblivious [sense motive 6].

Murphy Halfling Druid (KimMc) AC 40/T29/F35 HP 219+14/219  d20+35=53 ;
Monday September 12th, 2022 3:21:29 PM

Murphy says, "Don't worry, Succotash. I sense the protocol is that each of us should have something to say -- Toast time, eh?"

If the mind link is up, he telepathically encourages each of his friends to give a toast. "Speak perhaps our discovery of the traitor, and our pursuit of him through many sites. His murderous trail. His attack on our headquarters. Then, as we followed his trail to this dimension, mention the fierce resistance we faced to reach the temple, requiring us to dig deep from our years of experience to overcome.

"We strove to avoid killing anyone, until we learned, at the gateway to the temple, our only option to attain our goal, sadly, was to end the lives of a few stalwart and brave fire giant guardians who stood in our way. We did so with sorrow, yet also with the knowledge that our efforts might serve to save all the rest of you, as well as the lives of our brethren in Crescent Valley. Let us raise a glass to those fire giants who gave their all to defend this, their home, against outsiders.

"And may we, henceforth, no longer be considered hostile outsiders, for it was not against you that we came - rather, we came against the traitor, who sought to upend your city, your lives, your faith. He has been our mutual foe. With the help and support of your high priest, we were able to overcome him and his wicked allies, and return the Heart of the Mountain to you, and to seal our friendship with you, The Mighty Fire Giants Who Rise to Guard.

"Y'know, something like that," Murphy concludes his suggestion to his comrades.

==================
Sense motive: 53

Pressi (Melvin) - AC (33) 29, HP 217, CMD (30) 27; Harper AC 35, HP 117, CMD 35  d20+27=43 ; d20+30=48 ;
Monday September 12th, 2022 4:28:46 PM

Pressi nods to Murphy but her hackles are pretty well raised (sense motive 43).

Telepathically, she orders Harper to look around behind the stage, to see if anybody looks ready to move or to perform any traps.

Non-telepathically, she signals for Dlofles. "My deepest apologies, but do I think I could step away from the ceremony before the next speech. I could use some time to powder my nose... rather urgently, actually." (Bluff 48).

Regardless of whether she can get up from the table or not, she begins to as surreptitiously as possible cast detect thoughts (Will DC 20 but she's really trying to detect emotion.)

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

rituals of warding, healing, charm

L2: 0+1
L6: 1


Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 47 Tch 39 Ffted 40 HP 175/175 CMD 52/54(Grapple/Trip/Disarm)   d20+19=33 ;
Tuesday September 13th, 2022 1:06:05 AM
Sense Motive +19 = 33

Nikolai notices the stalling and quickly thinks about what may be missing. What do all big parties and ceremonies have in common. His wedding to Pru was a big ceremony and party at the Citadel. The Agents' promotion to Knight Commanders was a big ceremony and party. There were others but those were the biggest and took a long time because anyone that wanted got up to say.... something... 'That's it!' he blurts suddenly.

Nikolai asks to refill his cup, then stands up and gives a toast.

"Fire Giants, Halflings, and all other Peoples! The Wold is very large and very harsh to survive and make a living in many places. Such Life is made harder by gods that wish to harm, cause suffering, and destroy. It is natural for the Powerful to seek to control all about them. It is Un-Natural to know your power but refrain to use it to dominate the weaker. You have chosen to restrain your power and strength in order to guard and maintain the balance of the Immortal Forces that wish to destroy rather than build your own large empire in the Wold. The Annals of the Mailed Fist will record all this about the Fire Giants of the Pocket Realm. The Wold will know of your sacrifice. Here is to you and your legacy in the History of the Wold!"

Nikolai raises his cup then takes a long drink.


DM Mitch The final Battle Map  
Tuesday September 13th, 2022 7:54:59 AM
Succotash gets a little worried.
Prudance is oblivious.
Murphy thinks maybe the party should just give more toasts.
Pressi makes an excuse to go away.
Nikolai thinks about what could be missing and realizes that it’s probably a toast. So he gives one.

After Nikolair gives their toast the crowd’s reaction was fairly enthusiastic. All they were really waiting for was for you to take over the toasting. It seems though like it is customary for the new clan members to get their toasting done earlier in the evening. Murphy made a one, then no one else did and that is why you were kind of getting that awkward stalling. Good thing you didn’t do anything hasty and commit a diplomatic incident so early in the new alliance.

While everyone probably isn’t required to give a toast, more would probably help smooth things over and get things flowing again.


Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 27; HP 193/276; DR 5/evil 
Tuesday September 13th, 2022 12:42:13 PM
"To the fire giants, guardians of Fhorge and makers of food!"

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 43(42)/18/40 CMD 25 HP 142/142 Valerie AC 41(40)/16/34 CMD 34 HP 170(143)/170(143)Spells 
Tuesday September 13th, 2022 1:57:43 PM
Succotash stands on the table, like Murphy did, and says, "Friends new and old, I wish to share how much I appreciate the roles your lives play. For our hosts, they protect a small but very important part of the Wold, and for us Swords, we do what we can to protect the rest. Our roles aren't that different, and I am glad we can now perform them as friends!"

Tali (JonPaul) AC:42 (T:38, FF:36), CMD:, Saves:(F:20/R:22/W:25), HP:135/135  d20+30=45 ;
Tuesday September 13th, 2022 7:51:12 PM
A Toast!

Tali chooses to push back, her seat from the table and rise to the occasion of giving a Humble Sword toast! Using her best diplomatic flourish, and stately display, Tali hovers to a distance above the ground that would be fitting a halfling toasting to the assembled. Raising her glass, she begins...

"Dear friends, new & old, it is with great honor that I raise a toast to you all, now. The Peoples of this realm have both a great duty and honor in the roles you all serve. I am glad that we, the Humble Sword could help you in this, in our small way. Long live Faith, Honor, & our new Friendship!"

Looking around, Tali takes a long & deep drink of her goblet. Afterward, she returns to the earth, returning to her chair.

Skills Check:

Diplomacy = 45

Pressi (Melvin) - AC (33) 29, HP 217, CMD (30) 27; Harper AC 35, HP 117, CMD 35 
Tuesday September 13th, 2022 8:44:47 PM

Pressi nods, hoping that nobody knew she was already considering how to defeat them. At any rate, no harm no foul.

(And one of the rare occurrences where we aren't punished for not being paranoid enough.)

As it is her turn, she considers her words carefully.

"To the High Priest, who gave us a chance, who stood true when others lied. To duty, to honor, but more importantly, to community.

Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 47 Tch 39 Ffted 40 HP 175/175 CMD 52/54(Grapple/Trip/Disarm)  
Tuesday September 13th, 2022 10:58:15 PM
Nikolai wanders if calling some of them liars is appropriate for the occasion. He squeezes Pru's hand and asks through their Mailed Fist link "You do have your Teleport spell ready don't you?"

Murphy Halfling Druid (KimMc) AC 40/T29/F35 HP 219+14/219 
Wednesday September 14th, 2022 2:30:21 AM

Backstep
While in the tent, earlier, and receiving attention from the artists - Katig, Dlofles, and Tesrien, Murphy thanks them for telling him a little about themselves. While there he takes a moment, and makes a few quick sketches of them at work on his friends. "I'll work on this, and get you my finished result later."

At the Feast - & For Prudence
Murphy listens as each friend adds to the toasts, and drinks to each one. He hopes that their words will help develop bonhomie. Nikolai, Kezzem, Succotash, Tali, and Pressi give their words of recognition, gratitude, appreciation, and challenges faced, and yet to be faced.

He stands again after Pressi's toast and says, "You have heard from most of us. As my beloved Pressi said, we appreciate the deep wisdom High Priest Delos displayed. You are well served by such a one." He bows his head for a moment in the priest's direction.

He opens up further to those assembled. "Now, there is one among us who has not yet spoken. She is a master of the flame and is not shy of that. You can see she made the bold choice to have the holy symbol of Fhorge and a glorious flame painted on the left side of her face. She was one of the keys to our good success." He gestures and turns toward Pru, and asks more quietly, "Good friend Prudence, have you words for a toast?" He turns toward the crowd. "Let us encourage her, friends. What is that chant you do?" He imitates the fierce, staccato chant they did before, then smiles. "I know, I'm just a halfling. Let's hear again how you mighty fire giants do it - for bold Prudence!"

Using his hands like a choirmaster, he mouths the words, and punctuates the timing with his hands, having them repeat it a total of three times, to help build the energy. He clenches his upraised fists, motioning as one does to indicate 'well done' or 'victory!', then holds out his open arms in a 'take it away' signal toward Nikolai's beautiful wife, and waits to hear what she says.

DM Mitch The final Battle Map  
Wednesday September 14th, 2022 8:47:49 AM
Everyone gives a toast!
Kezzem to giants, fhorge, and food.
Succotash to friends and protecting things.
Tali to the people of the realm and their great duty
Pressi to the High Priest.
Nikolai and Murphy having already given toasts, wonder about teleportation and encourage Prudance to give a toast.

Huzzah for preventing diplomatic incidents! With Nikolai and Murphy really getting the ball rolling it isn’t long before the rest of Humble’s Sword is giving their toasts.

Nikolai wonders the wisdom of Pressi’s words in accusing others of lying when the high priest told the truth but everyone is so into their cups and pretty much just want an excuse to keep drinking thus continuing the buzz that if there was a slight in there no one seemed to notice much less care.

The party pretty much turns into a raging kegger at that point with more toasts, music and even dancing.
It continues into the wee hours of the morning when even the hardiest of giants seem to think it is time for bed.


Succotash (Jeremy) AC 43(42)/18/40 CMD 25 HP 142/142 Valerie AC 41(40)/16/34 CMD 34 HP 170(143)/170(143)Spells 
Wednesday September 14th, 2022 12:19:07 PM
Succotash finds the festivities to his liking. He enjoys the food and ale greatly, but makes a point not to allow himself to get intoxicated. When it's time to hit the sack, he happily lays himself to bed.

Prudence Komonov [AC 28; HP 194/194] 
Wednesday September 14th, 2022 2:24:07 PM
Pru enjoys the revels, and does get more than a little tipsy. Which is fine, because it lets her lean on Nikolai.

"Mmm, you're nice," she murmurs.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC (33) 29, HP 217, CMD (30) 27; Harper AC 35, HP 117, CMD 35 
Wednesday September 14th, 2022 3:16:57 PM

"Yeah, probably should have been clearer that I was referring to Flamescorn and his followers," Pressi muttered to herself. "Anyway...."



Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 27; HP 193/276; DR 5/evil 
Wednesday September 14th, 2022 6:07:29 PM
"Do you guys know anything about one of Skaldsworn's followers, a fellow by the name of Halflingsbane?" asks Kezzem. "He was like me, but evil and not funny."

Tali (JonPaul) AC:42 (T:38, FF:36), CMD:, Saves:(F:20/R:22/W:25), HP:135/135 
Wednesday September 14th, 2022 9:28:42 PM
[u][b]Drinks[b][u]

Taki, not being much of a drinker, milks three goblets before switching to water for the remainder of the feast.

Tali (JonPaul) AC:42 (T:38, FF:36), CMD:, Saves:(F:20/R:22/W:25), HP:135/135 
Wednesday September 14th, 2022 9:28:43 PM
[u][b]Drinks[b][u]

Taki, not being much of a drinker, milks three goblets before switching to water for the remainder of the feast.

Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 47 Tch 39 Ffted 40 HP 175/175 CMD 52/54(Grapple/Trip/Disarm)  
Thursday September 15th, 2022 12:59:38 AM
Nikolai simply smiles. He knows his family, many generations of Mailed Fist soldiers, would be proud (once again) of their accomplishments. But Pru's family is still entrenched in their traditions of farming, husbandry, and the simple life. Too bad they just can't see how their child means so much to the Wold.

He holds her a little tighter.

Murphy Halfling Druid (KimMc) AC 40/T29/F35 HP 219+14/219 
Thursday September 15th, 2022 3:39:59 AM

"And... Pru is in her cups! You giants are much larger than us halflings, humans, and half-elves, and can handle more toasts than some of us can!" He raises his mug, "To our two honorary halflings - Prudence and Nikolai Komonov!" he says, and takes his last sip. Murphy long has practiced the art of tipping his cup in such a way that it looks as though he is drinking more than he actually is. It's harder to do with a glass, so he is glad to have an opaque mug, instead.

Snippets of conversation here and there:
"No worries, Press. I knew who you were talking about. And this far into the toasts, I don't think they care. And I'm glad I've never needed a drink to find you most alluring, Diamond Dust." He seal that remark with a kiss on her forehead, her left cheek, her right cheek, and full on the lips. "I've arranged for a surprise or two at home."
----
"Nikolai - how about you and I scribe a treaty to run by our hosts? The faintest ink outlives the longest memories, I heard once. I should write that saying down." [We can handle this offline - but Murphy wants to be certain, as Delos offered, to have an agreement in writing. Rather than spend posting time on this, can we simply state that what has been agreed to verbally will be put to ink, with multiple copies, and signed by the appropriate people?]

He talks with Delos to make arrangements. "Nothing like signing a treaty with a hangover, right?" he asks. "Though neither of us is like to have such. Who else among your people would need to ratify it? I'll check with my friends. Perhaps each of them will want to sign. If not, at minimum, I can sign on behalf of Humble's Ford and Crescent Valley. Nikolai on behalf of the Mailed Fist. As our cleric, maybe Succotash, too. Back home, we'll deal with the valley authorities, and see about bringing them onboard." Murphy relates the conversation to the party to get their preferences.
----
To his friends, he says, "The community back home has been preparing a fête for us. And I've got some work to do after that. How about those of us who need to sleep it off do so here, and head back home by noon tomorrow? That should give time for the treaty signing, and we'll be on our way."
----
"Tali, I am so grateful for your skill with walls. They frequently caged opponents, which allowed us to deal with more mercy than might otherwise have been possible. I'm remembering our way to the temple when that crack set of warriors tried to stop us. You stopped them, and we were able to move well forward. Maybe when we get back, after the festivities at the Ford have wound down, we can take advantage of various resources and track down your ancestry. If you still want that. Whether yes, or no on that topic, I want you to know I consider you a solid friend. Say, not that we're ready for it yet, but how would you like to be a godmother one day?"

He wonders if someone will be able to answer Kezzem's query.

DM Mitch The final Battle Map  
Thursday September 15th, 2022 8:21:24 AM
At the party a good time was seemingly had by all and everyone goes to bed pretty much content some of the party switching to water or monitoring their ale intake while others getting tipsy.

The next day when everyone wakes up (let’s face it it way past morning) the giants have an impressive breakfast spread laid out.

Ham, bacon, sausage, flap jacks, waffles, muffins, biscuits, gravy, fruit, jam, honey, coffee, juice, milk all greet you.

Some of the giants hear Kezzem’s question about Halflingsbane but no one says they’ve heard of him.
Murphy wants a formal written treaty. The giants seem to think the items given to the party are the formal treaty, serving as physical representation of their status as Friends of Fhorge that will be honored even if it’s the a descendent two centuries from now presenting it. If Murphy insists on formal terms written in stone (paper instantly catches on fire here) then he will get them.


Succotash (Jeremy) AC 43(42)/18/40 CMD 25 HP 142/142 Valerie AC 41(40)/16/34 CMD 34 HP 170(143)/170(143)Spells 
Thursday September 15th, 2022 11:51:30 AM
"I could grow to like it here!" Succotash says, to himself, as he digs in for yet another feast.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC (33) 29, HP 217, CMD (30) 27; Harper AC 35, HP 117, CMD 35 
Thursday September 15th, 2022 8:46:38 PM

Pressi doesn't drink anything except water.

There is no sleeping in for this little one. So after her rituals and meditations, after giving Murphy a big hug while he sleeps, she takes some time to reflect, to think about the seemingly random turns in her life.

On the way to breakfast, she takes some time to shake Nick's and Pru's hands. "I never really got the chance to thank you for all the help and all the missions. I know I can be set in my ways at times, but I do wonder if I could have learned something from you."

Time is spent preparing for the trip back and for the feast at home.


Tali (JonPaul) AC:42 (T:38, FF:36), CMD:, Saves:(F:20/R:22/W:25), HP:135/135 
Thursday September 15th, 2022 9:25:14 PM
[u][b]Breakfast & Chill[b][u]

After last night's festivities, Tali sticks to water coupled with a laidback attitude!

She is very much looking forward to a filling breakfast.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 27; HP 193/276; DR 5/evil 
Thursday September 15th, 2022 11:42:59 PM
"Murphey may want a treaty written in stone, but I'm more than willing to accept it in terms of food if they keep feeding us like this!"

Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 47 Tch 39 Ffted 40 HP 175/175 CMD 52/54(Grapple/Trip/Disarm)  
Friday September 16th, 2022 12:57:31 AM
Nikolai agrees that the tattoos are much more of a treaty than anything written, even in stone. "Let's face it, it is our deeds they are honoring, not the hole halfling race. As long as we live, we serve as mediators between any dispute between these giants and the outside. That will have to do."

Murphy Halfling Druid (KimMc) AC 40/T29/F35 HP 219+14/219 
Friday September 16th, 2022 4:46:06 AM

"Succotash, you said, 'My only hope is this ordeal will help the fire giants realize that halflings are friends not food' -- Looks like your hope is well fulfulled, friend."

Here is what Murphy suggests, putting it before his friends for revisions they might have:
Treaty in stone
A Treaty of Trust and Friendship

Fhorge's Realm High Priest Delos declared:

"These heroes, known as Humble's Sword, were sent by our god to restore to us what is rightfully ours! They and their people will forevermore be known as Friends of Fhorge. Let it be known throughout the realm that no faithful shall harm them and that any plea for aid from them shall be answered with the full might of Fhorge’s Faithful!”

Humble's Sword High Druid Murphy Leafwin Pipewood said:

"The Heart of the Mountain,
The Heart Restored,
The Heart of New Friendship,
The Force of Fhorge!"

For service rendered, and the generous offer of Friendship, let this be a lasting covenant between our peoples - Humble's Sword of Humble's Ford in Crescent Valley, and the Fire Giants of Fhorge's Realm.

Signed ... {representative(s) from both sides}
Current Woldian Date
The halfling adds, "I thought Delos' words best described the nature of the covenant, succinctly."

After suggested revisions, and if the party members agree, he will put it before Delos for his feedback. If satisfactory, Murphy will request that two copies be made, one for the giants, one for the halflings.

DM Mitch The final Battle Map  
Friday September 16th, 2022 5:49:29 PM
Succcotash could grow to like it here.
Pressi only drinks water and takes some time to reflect.
Tali sticks to water for breakfast and enjoys it
Kezzem thinks a treaty in food is great.
Nikolair thinks a written treaty is redundant.
Murphy continues to propose a written treaty.

The high priest laughs and says to Murphy, “For a people so little in stature you certainly are demanding. If it will assuage your, I don’t know what to call it, ego I guess then I will formally give you two stone tablets. One recognizing the peace treaty between our pocket realm giants and the halflings of Humble’s Ford and another recognizing the peace treaty between our pocket realm giants and the Mailed Fist mercenary company considering 2 of your number are both Knight Commander Emeritus and The Mailed Fist has quite the reputation as a military organization we would be honored to extend formal relations to if in the case we ever needed some work done. Deal? However these tablets only happen if the Knights Commander Emeritus are on board. We will of course retain our own copies of the tablets and should the need arise we could present our copies to your groups at some point in the future.”

Looks like Murphy will need to get Pru and Nikolai to sign off on the stone tablets considering they represent the Mailed Fist and Murphy is not a member of their organization.


Tali (JonPaul) AC:42 (T:38, FF:36), CMD:, Saves:(F:20/R:22/W:25), HP:135/135 
Friday September 16th, 2022 8:40:24 PM
Tali continues to sip on her goblet of water & enjoy the breakfast feast!

Prudence Komonov [AC 28; HP 194/194] 
Friday September 16th, 2022 8:58:49 PM
"I think we can agree to that," Pru says. She is still a bit hungover, and wishes everybody would stop talking so loud.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 27; HP 193/276; DR 5/evil 
Saturday September 17th, 2022 2:15:54 PM
“For a people so little in stature you certainly are demanding."

"Hey, don't lump the lot of us in with him," says Kezzem. "That's a Murphey thing, not a halfling thing."

Murphy Halfling Druid (KimMc) AC 40/T29/F35 HP 219+14/219 
Sunday September 18th, 2022 11:36:55 PM
"Good Delos, it is not for something so large or small as an ego," Murphy responds to the priest, "but rather that a memorial document helps those who come after us to have evidence of so strong an arrangement, so pleasant a concordance, that they might ask about it, and the next generation might learn, and come to the same understanding that we have here today."

Murphy concurs that a separate document for the Mailed Fist would be wise. He hears Pru's agreement and awaits to hear whether Nikolas will second his wife's affirmation. If he says nothing but does not gainsay, that silence may be construed as assent. Yet as he appreciates the half-elf's wisdom, he does look in his direction to listen should he speak.

He chuckles at Kezzem's comment. "The faintest ink outlasts the longest memory, Sir Kezzem. How much more, a memory supplemented by that which is written in stone. It may be my role to fuss, that future fussing may be avoided, just as your role may involve the rolling of eyes - or avoidance of lumps."

Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 47 Tch 39 Ffted 40 HP 175/175 CMD 52/54(Grapple/Trip/Disarm)  
Monday September 19th, 2022 1:10:22 AM
Nikolai has no problem in signing, along with Pru, the Mailed Fist copy of the treaty. "After my report is written up and shared with the other Knight Commanders, the full story will be written and archived. This Stone Peace Contract will the installed in the Main Hall as a reminder of your sacrifice in maintaining order in the Wold."

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 43(42)/18/40 CMD 25 HP 142/142 Valerie AC 41(40)/16/34 CMD 34 HP 170(143)/170(143)Spells 
Monday September 19th, 2022 3:19:24 AM
Succotash doesn't feel the need for a written document, but he isn’t going to nay say Murphy in this. After all Humble's Ford is Murphy's childhood home not his. Sure he has grown fond of the place and happily calls it home, but he knows he will never have the same kind of connection Murphy does.

DM Mitch The final Battle Map  
Monday September 19th, 2022 6:50:22 AM
Tali keeps eating.
Prudance is agreeable.
Kezzem objects that it’s not halflings that are demanding, just Murphy.
Murphy says that he just wants a physical document that helps those who come after know about the deal. Because giant plate sized pins, tattoos, and oral tradition just isn’t good enough or something.
Nikolai is willing to play along.
Succotash doesn’t feel this is necessary but won’t argue the point.

The high priest claps his hand and 4 stone tablets, a chisel and mallet are brought forth as well as the stone notary.
In a short amount of time 2 copies of 2 official stone tablets are drawn up one recognizing the alliance between the pocket realm and Humble’s Ford and the other recognizing the alliance between the pocket realm and The Mailed Fist.
The stone notary says, “All we need to make this official is for representatives from both groups to chisel their signatures and I can notarize these tablets as official and binding.”
The high priest chisels his signature on the tablets on behalf of the giants.
The hammer and chisel are presented to your group to sign.

Once the document is signed everything is done that needs to be done in giant land. Unless anyone has some last minute errands the party presumably packs up and heads home. Humbles continues to be a whirl of activity, but less so than before. It seems the festival is supposed to be tomorrow and most preparations are complete so things are a bit calmer.


Succotash (Jeremy) AC 43(42)/18/40 CMD 25 HP 142/142 Valerie AC 41(40)/16/34 CMD 34 HP 170(143)/170(143)Spells 
Monday September 19th, 2022 12:13:40 PM
Succotash figures Murphy should have the honors of signing the tablets. He is ready to head home and be done with this adventure. Once home, he decides to spend some time at the shrines at The Sanctuary and thanks the various gods for their help dealing with Flamescorn and his ilk.

Prudence Komonov [AC 28; HP 194/194] 
Monday September 19th, 2022 2:48:54 PM
Pru lets Nikolai sign the tablet. He'd been the Thumb, after all. Afterward, they return to Humbles for another brief visit, but Pru (at least) has no intention of staying there indefinitely.

Murphy Halfling Druid (KimMc) AC 40/T29/F35 HP 219+14/219  d20+19=27 ;
Monday September 19th, 2022 4:58:03 PM

Murphy takes up the hammer and chisel and fashions his signature (Profession: Artist: 27), then hands the tools over to Nikolai.

He asks permission to take 3 rocks (maybe 5 pounds each or so) from the volcano to place in a shrine to Fhorge back at their sanctuary outside of Humble's Ford. He again thanks their new Fire Giant friends for their warm hospitality, and bids them farewell. "I'll pop by to visit once in a while," he states.

On their journey home, Murphy asks his companions' plans, and tells them his own. He takes close counsel with Pressi, in particular.

He will join Succotash at the shrines, then discuss with Foreman George the fashioning of a shrine to add to the other shrines on the Sanctuary grounds. "You came up with a good name for this place, Succotash."

More to come... have to run...

Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 47 Tch 39 Ffted 40 HP 175/175 CMD 52/54(Grapple/Trip/Disarm)  
Monday September 19th, 2022 8:08:43 PM
Nikolai has no artistry or calligraphy with chisel and hammer skills but he does his best to make the standard emblem of the raised fist and makes some marks to resemble mail.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC (33) 29, HP 217, CMD (30) 27; Harper AC 35, HP 117, CMD 35 
Monday September 19th, 2022 8:17:08 PM

Pressi packs up, one last diplomatic encounter that she could get involved in but studiously didn't.

As she heads home, Pressi tells Murphy of one last intention: to use the wish spell to return her woldsblood back to the plane, to return to back before she was a spellcaster. Back to her normal self.



Tali (JonPaul) AC:42 (T:38, FF:36), CMD:, Saves:(F:20/R:22/W:25), HP:135/135  d20+30=43 ;
Monday September 19th, 2022 8:23:06 PM
[u][b]When the party is over...[b][u]

Tali looks over the proceedings and nods her approval. When the group is ready to depart she diplomatically bids farewell to her new friends (Skill check: Diplomacy = 43). Afterward, she gathers her belongings, her new pin, and heads home to the Humble Sword's compound to embrace her friend Rayya!

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 27; HP 193/276; DR 5/evil 
Monday September 19th, 2022 11:20:07 PM
"Well I'm glad we were able to get that all hammered out," says Kezzem as Murphey signs his name. "I hate for us to have to start over with a clean slate."

Murphy Halfling Druid (KimMc) AC 40/T29/F35 HP 219+14/219  d4=1 ;
Tuesday September 20th, 2022 3:09:30 AM

Murphy laughs at Kezzem. "Here - you carry one of these!" He hands him an engraved stone.

With Pressi: "Really, Press? Fascinating. Care to share your thoughts on this decision? Also, I love that you are so often full of surprises. We might have a pretty amazing family, not that it isn't already amazing."

DM Mitch The final Battle Map  
Tuesday September 20th, 2022 7:41:44 AM
Succotash defers to Murphy to sign the tablet and resolves to spend time at the various shrines to the gods when he gets home.
Pru lets Nikolai sign the tablet and agrees to return to Humble’s Ford for a brief visit though she has no intention of staying there indefinitely.
Murphy artistically renders his signature on the stone tablets and then asks for permission to take 3 rocks from the volcano to incorporate into a shrine to Fhorge back home. He vows to return to visit the fire giants on occasion and discusses plans for the Sanctuary shrines with Succotash. He asks Pressi about her below decision.
Nikolai does his best to inscribe the logo of the mailed fist into his stone tablets.
Pressi decided to not get involved in the diplomatic matter of the tablets. She tells Murphy that she wants to use the Wish spell to return herself to before she became a caster.
Tali bids the giants a diplomatic farewell and resolves to see Rayya when they get back to the compound.
Kezzem wastes no time with the puns saying he’s glad they could get everything hammered out and he would hate for them to have to start over again with a clean slate

The trip home is uneventful and you are able to return to Humble’s Ford and your sanctuary.

Succotash, Murphy and George discuss changes to the shrine area while Tali is reunited with Rayya

Pru is resolved to stay for a little while but not indefinitely

After a day of relaxing the day of the festival arrives. Halfling festivals are always grand occasions with far more food then you’d expect from such small folks, though after the giants and their giant sized meals it maybe looses a little impact. There are plenty of carnival games and contests of skill for people of all ages and the mayor gives a speech about the importance of the day that no one cares about - after all no one even remembered there was supposed to be a festival until last week. Overall it’s a success and everyone has a good time.


Succotash (Jeremy) AC 43(42)/18/40 CMD 25 HP 142/142 Valerie AC 41(40)/16/34 CMD 34 HP 170(143)/170(143)Spells 
Tuesday September 20th, 2022 12:26:16 PM
"With all this feasting, I may have to change my surname to Chubbystick, as Slenderstick may not be appropriate anymore." Succotash jokes as he yet again stuffs tasty food into his pie hole.

Prudence Komonov [AC 28; HP 194/194] 
Tuesday September 20th, 2022 3:25:26 PM
Pru enjoys the food and games and yes, even the speech. The poor man worked so hard on it; he deserved to be listened to. When the speech is over, Pru applauds politely and then wanders off in search of cake.

Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 47 Tch 39 Ffted 40 HP 175/175 CMD 52/54(Grapple/Trip/Disarm)  
Tuesday September 20th, 2022 7:50:21 PM
Nikolai likes seeing Pru having fun. There was a time when it was hard to get her to realize she could have fun and not worry about what people thought of her. Being shunned as a sorceress at such a young age had a big impact on her, but being in the Mailed Fist, as much against the wish of her parents, was the best thing for her. Having her grow up to be a simple farm girl was all they wanted, but now look, she is having fun.

Nikolai has a go at many of the carnival games. Anything he wins he gives to some less fortunate child, saving the best of what he won, if anything, for Pru.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC (33) 29, HP 217, CMD (30) 27; Harper AC 35, HP 117, CMD 35 
Tuesday September 20th, 2022 9:21:58 PM

Pressi kind of winces at the amazing kids idea.

"It's just that... I dunno, it still feels like the plan went off the rails a long time ago. This wasn't some grand plan to be a powerful witch, it's just a strange soul gem accident gone wrong, and maybe influenced by my evil parents, and... I guess I worry that it's unnatural.

"And I was willing to put up with that devil's bargain for the safety of this town, but that's passed. Am I really going to be going out there, slinging curses and tracking felons? And what does happen to our kids, am I setting them up to be another generation of arcane thieves? I guess I figured that I could wish it out, just go back to being a monk, back to politics. Or maybe it's just that I still haven't figured out who I am."

She shook her head, embracing Murphy. "I haven't made any decisions yet. I wouldn't without at least bringing it up to you first. Even if it's just so someone will listen."

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

After a debriefing of the coven and checking on Bliss and the others, Pressi makes it to yet another celebration.

Most of the time is spent circulating through the town, shaking the hands of citizens and trying some luck at the games, a water bottle at the ready.


Tali (JonPaul) AC:42 (T:38, FF:36), CMD:, Saves:(F:20/R:22/W:25), HP:135/135 
Tuesday September 20th, 2022 10:09:26 PM
[u][b]RAYYA!!![b][u]

Tali spends time reuniting with her familiar; Rayya.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 27; HP 193/276; DR 5/evil 
Tuesday September 20th, 2022 11:20:18 PM
Kezzem attempts to start a dagger tossing contest for the children until someone tells him it's a bad idea.

Murphy Halfling Druid (KimMc) AC 40/T29/F35 HP 219+14/219 
Wednesday September 21st, 2022 4:36:53 AM

Murphy joins in the festival with joy, happy to be back among people who were not trying to figure out how to kill him and his friends, or to take over the Wold, or to rearrange vast areas of geography.

The druid applauds the mayor, then asks if he can get up to speak, briefly. Being the son of a well-regarded family, and known to have helped save the community more than once, surely they will allow such.

Murphy's 'brief' speech
"Over ten years ago, at a festival similar to this, a small group of halflings, some from Humble's Ford, as well as other places around our valley, formed a team for the Crescent Valley Competition. They chose to call themselves 'Humble's Sword.' Over the course of a few days, competing against another seven teams, Humble's Sword emerged victorious. I'd also like to point out, competing versus teams from Hovel, Angel Springs, and other spots, our friends - well, now they are our friends," he says with a wink and a nod toward "- the BadApples, also of the Ford, came in second overall after a hard-fought final toe-to-toe with the Sword.

"I was with the group at the that time. Hazel and Alouryn also," he points to his two dear friends, "also were among the first members of the Sword." Alouryn rocks one of her babes in her arms, and Hazel has the other twin.

"Since that time, many have been added to the roster of this adventuring group. I'd love to mention them all - but I know some of you want to get home before dawn, and it's only a couple hours past sundown now. But here we are, the last members of the Sword:
- Pressi Diamond Dust - my multi-talented wife whose skill set I highly appreciate and can barely understand. It's nice to be married to a wife will a skill set, y'know.
- Kezzem, a rogue who became a paladin who smites evil and tells good jokes. At the same time, even!
- Succotash Slenderstick, former paladin, now a notable high priest of Pantheon whose best dinosaur friend is Valerie.
- Lightfooted and lovely Tali, with her owl friend Rayya. Tali knows well how to wall in the enemy with her spells, and is known for her merciful heart, and effective tactics.
"Now, we have always been a halfling group. But after a recent series of related attacks, here as well as in many other locales, two members of the Mailed Fist offered to join up with us on one of our most daunting sets of challenges ever. Let me introduce:
- Prudence Komonov, Mistress of Flames, who helped us enormously as we visited lands of boiling waters and volcanos.
- Nikolai Komonov, tactician extraordinary. We have named them honorary halflings, and late but most needed additions to Humble's Sword.
- and myself, Murphy Leafwin Pipewood a druid.
Good news, good news. This may sound strange, but a city of Fire Giants has pledged friendship to us, and our communities. Can you believe it? Fire Giants? Yet it is true. We saved their pocket plane, prevented cultists from unleashing floods of boiling water over the Valley, and have a solid Treaty.

"We want to thank you, wonderful people of Humble's Ford, for your support and understanding over the years. This has been, as far as I know, our last adventure as Humble's Sword. For now, Pressi and I plan to settle in here. Hazel and Alouryn got a head start over us. Nikolai and Pru have commitments to the Mailed Fist. Our other companions will let you know their plans, their hopes.

"May your crops be abundant, your herds healthy, and the work of your hands be praiseworthy. May your children grow up well, and their children after them. Selah!"

A Long Project for Kids and Families, just in time for the Festivals 
Wednesday September 21st, 2022 5:23:43 AM

Samell 'Fingers' Pastna Pipewood - Master Toymaker
Murphy's father has been busy. For the last few years he has been crafting a masterwork - a carousel, a merry-go-round [which has occasionally been discussed in the game]. The disc platform has gears and wheels hidden beneath it. The surface is populated by carved animals and monsters and sedate benches, each of them having one or more places for halflings to sit. There are larger ones, too, capable of carrying biguns like humans and such.

He has fashioned it such that most of the ride novelties can be removed and replaced with other critters. There are two small 'mountains' which have slides starting at the top ten-feet high and winding down to discharge the sliders on to a soft mat at the foot.

It is also quite strong. He tested it with Lomar, the friendly ogre(-mage) who lives with and helps the people of Hovel.

For the festival, though, he has carved ponies, deer, riding dogs, a pair of sheep, and large eagles for childen and adults alike to sit upon. Some of the animals are stationary, going around otherwise in time with the disc. Some ascend and descend - such as a pony going up and down.

It has a roof over it which remains stationary, and mirrors in the center so that riders may look to the side to see themselves. There are many safety features - handles, straps, belts, contours to help keep one properly seated, and the like.

He also has fashioned swing sets of different sizes - smaller ones for the tykes, medium-sized for older children and adults, and a larger one for biguns, or for very bold halflings. Slides - straight ones, spiraling ones. A wooden play fortress for children to climb around and through. Teeter totters. Metal rings in a row to swing from. Ladders and chutes. Also scattered about picnic tables, benches, and other creative places to sit and rest. He brought in help from Angel Springs to have a water fountain, and a few drinking fountains.

They may have to rethink the sand pits. Cats seem to favor them, and mothers do not like their children playing in sand which cats have used.

Samell managed to get all the playground set up just in time for the festival.

DM Mitch The final Battle Map  
Wednesday September 21st, 2022 9:02:47 AM
Succotash ponders changing his surname to Chubbystick as Slenderstick might not be appropriate anymore.
Pru enjoys the food and games and even the speech. She applauds politely after the speech and wonders off in search of cake.
Nikolai likes seeing Pru have fun reflecting on her past and how her time in the Fist benefited her. He plays the games winning some things for the local children and something special for Pru.
Pressi is still trying to sort everything out and what she wants to do moving forward. She tells Murphy she hasn’t made any decisions yet but she will tell him if only to have someone listen to her. During the celebration she circulates though the town trying her hand at some of the games.
Tali spends her time reuniting with Rayya
Kezzem attempts to start a children’s dagger tossing competition until someone tells him it is a bad idea.
Murphy gives a speech about the party, their history, and recent events. His dad reveals a playground he has been working on for years.

The adults like the speech well enough. Some are surprised at the history lesson, either because they forgot over the long years or moved here since then. The deal with the giants gets a lot of surprised mutters and cheers, with some hoping that means that they won’t be attacked so much. The children of course ignore the speech and anxiously await a chance to go back to their games and their new carousel, which is a huge hit.

The festivities are grand, but end soon enough. The day after they end feels different somehow, as if it’s more than a regular dawn but a dawn of new beginnings. It also heralds an unexpected visitor. An ancient looking halfling comes by and knocks on the door. ”McGregor Headwise. Here to see Mr. Murphy. I understand he’s been looking for me on and off.”


Succotash (Jeremy) AC 43(42)/18/40 CMD 25 HP 142/142 Valerie AC 41(40)/16/34 CMD 34 HP 170(143)/170(143)Spells 
Wednesday September 21st, 2022 12:52:57 PM
Succotash is happy to sleep in his own bed, and in the morning he eats a light breakfast. He has many thoughts going through his head, but most pressing is what is he going to do with the rest of his life. He has spent his whole adult life moving from one adventure to the next, always trying to fight for the causes of good in the Wold. Now it seems that part of his life is winding down. He decides to talk to Tali and ask her what she plans to do. He remembers that when they first met she mentioned a desire to find a link to her past, and he feels that it would be a worthy goal to help his friend learn something about her family, and where she came from.

Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 27; HP 193/276; DR 5/evil 
Wednesday September 21st, 2022 7:02:12 PM
Kezzem talks to the mayor (Hobie's uncle?) about two things he would like to see to as he retires from adventuring. The first is he wishes to officially change his name to Kezzem Humblesword. The second is he wants to start a center for the wayward youths in Humble's Ford.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC (33) 29, HP 217, CMD (30) 27; Harper AC 35, HP 117, CMD 35 
Wednesday September 21st, 2022 8:11:43 PM

Pressi greeted McGregor just as she was about to leave. She called up to Murphy about his visitor.

Curious herself as to what the wise old one might have to say, she sticks around for a bit longer.

Eventually, though, she begins to make her way around the town, getting reacquainted in her retirement and considering becoming a leader herself. So she stops off at town hall, visits the second dinner club, walks through the parks.

Having already said goodbye to Pru and Nick, she checks on them once more just to make sure they are settled on their brief visit here.

Finally, she makes her way to Succotash. "I just wanted to say that it was good to know that you always had my back. You came just around of my change, waddling around with that pig, having more patience in creatures than I have. I always looked to you for courage and for wisdom. And I don't know what happens now, but I wanted to let you know how much you meant to me, not just to the team."

Prudence Komonov [AC 28; HP 194/194] 
Wednesday September 21st, 2022 9:48:48 PM
Pru looks at Nikolai. "We should go," she says. "Our future isn't here; it's at the Citadel. This has been fun, but we need to get back."

Tali (JonPaul) AC:42 (T:38, FF:36), CMD:, Saves:(F:20/R:22/W:25), HP:135/135 
Wednesday September 21st, 2022 10:09:42 PM
[u][b]Talia[b][u]

Seems Tali now understands why she is so different from the others. Tali hovers around the compound visiting with his companions & asking about the festival she apparently missed.

Murphy Halfling Druid (Kim McCoy) 
Wednesday September 21st, 2022 11:58:04 PM

When Pressi fetches him to tell him that McGregor Headwise is here to see him, Murphy's heart skips a beat for joy. The wisest halfling in Humble's Ford has come for a visit!

This morning Murphy is not dressed in his adventuring garb, but rather in what he grew up wearing in the style of both his father and his beloved Uncle Orby - cream-colored linen coveralls, a comfortable soft teal shirt underneath, feet bare.

"Mc... McGregor Headwise?? Well, I'll be! Thank you so much to coming to visit! Say, Alouryn just made us some tea. Care for some?" He is glad Pressi is with them. After they have been seated, and as the tea is on its way, the tow-headed halfling sighs. "Oh, so many times have I wanted to meet with you, to hear your counsel. Rarely I would see you about the town, but myself was on some urgent errand. Forgive me, please, for not being more diligent in seeking your company." The tea arrives, served by the graceful and gracious cleric of Flower, Alouryn. After ensuring that people's tea is properly creamed, sugared, honeyed, lemoned, according to the preferences of each, she takes her leave, after giving a curtsy to the aged visitor.

"To what do we owe this honor, Mister Headwise? How might I serve you?" Murphy asks.

Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 47 Tch 39 Ffted 40 HP 175/175 CMD 52/54(Grapple/Trip/Disarm)  
Thursday September 22nd, 2022 12:56:02 AM
I agree. We came here because of the murders. Now that that is solved and resolved, it is time to get back to running the Citadel. We should get the Humble's Sword members together for a sweet short goodby then be on our way."

Succotash (Jeremy) AC 43(42)/18/40 CMD 25 HP 142/142 Valerie AC 41(40)/16/34 CMD 34 HP 170(143)/170(143)Spells 
Thursday September 22nd, 2022 1:03:52 AM
"Thanks Pressi, you are a valuable friend to me as well. One of my greatest honors was officiating your's and Murphy's wedding."

Murphy Halfling Druid (Kim McCoy) 
Thursday September 22nd, 2022 2:24:05 AM

When it appears that the Mailed Fist representatives are preparing to depart, Murphy asks Pressi to join him and helps to gather the rest of the gang. Once together, he says to them, "Nikolai, Prudence, may heaven bless you for coming to our aid when you did. I do not know how we might have prevailed as we did without your contributions.

"I think I may spend a bit more time studying the law, Nik. You have inspired me." He takes the time to find out how he might reach them down the road.

He asks them their plans, if they care to disclose. Finally, he reminds them, "You always have a place with us, friends. Come and visit whenever you please. Also, from one married couple to another - may heaven bless you with strong, wise, and beautiful bairns."
=======
"Thank you for helping to get us married, Succotash! And for so many, many other things. Your courage, diplomacy, and judicious use of positive energy are among the things which I admire, and for which I am grateful."

He adds, "I'd be up for working with you and Tali to try to find her family roots." He thinks a moment, then asks Pressi, "Say, is that something you might do with your current capabilities? Use your abilities to learn about another through - whatever it is you do? Do you suppose that could help in her quest?"
=======
Murphy catches Tali on anything she might have missed. [OOC: But J-P will have to read all the recent posts so that Tali might know :-)] He chats with her about her plans.
=======
"Kezzem Humblesword, eh? I like it. I could get behind what you have in mind in working with the wayward. Maybe the BadApples, who have grown up some, might lend a hand. I know that for all her hard shell, Candy BadApple has a heart for orphans, and her sister, Crystal, a follower of Flower, is one of the kindest and sweetest people I know. Say, if you've a mind to get married one of these days, it would hard to be better than Crystal," he teases the paladin. He adds, "She and Alouryn are good friends, by the way. And you know that Hazel lucked out."
[OOC: Constable Roscoe Hornblower is Hobie's cousin. The mayor is a relative of an Alouryn Buttercup Bumblebottom, married to Hazel, both of whom were original members of the Sword.]

DM Mitch The final Battle Map  
Thursday September 22nd, 2022 8:23:13 AM
Succotash is happy to sleep in his own bed. He has many ideas about what to do next and resolves to talk to Tali to ask what she intends to do considering when they first met in what seemed like eons ago she spoke about finding a link to her past, considering it a worthy goal to help his friend learn more about where she game from.
Kezzem decides to see the mayor who just happens to be Hobie’s uncle about officially changing his name to Kezzem Humblesword and opening a center for wayward youths in Humble’s Ford.
Pressi greets McGregor as she was about to leave but decides to stay a bit longer before making her way around town considering retirement and becoming a leader. She checks in on Pru and Nikolai once more before saying some meaningful words to Succotash.
Pru tells Nikolai that they should go considering their future is at the Citadel, not in Humble’s Ford as their honeymoon has been fun but they need to get back.
Tali understands why she is different from her companions as she hovers around and asks about the festival she missed.
Murphy woke up and dressed himself not in adventuring garb this day but in the style he grew up in that of his father and beloved uncle. He makes sure Master McGregor’s tea is properly prepared and then asks to what he owes this honor. He has advice for Kezzem and words for several other members of the party.
Nikolai agrees that they should be headed back to the citadel considering they came to investigate and solve murders and that business has been resolved. He figures they should get with the Sword one last time to say goodbye though.

Succotash tells Pressi that she was a valuable friend as well and one of his greatest honors was officiating her wedding.

Kezzem seeks out the Mayor to make his suggestion. The mayor is mildly amused at the name change and discusses his new project with him while they do so. ”It’s certainly an interesting idea, and with the weight of a famous hero behind it I’m sure it’ll get all the support it needs. Do you plan on trying to run it on your own or do you have others in mind who might help?”

Meanwhile at home McGregor thanks the group for the tea and sips it thoughtfully before nodding his approval. Murphy’s apology makes him grin. ”No son, the apology to be made is mine. I’m afraid I’ve been actively avoiding your entire group for a decade. I think with good reason though, and I owe you an explanation in addition to the apology.

You see several decades ago, before your time, I was much younger and less wise, though still considered among the wisest in town. At the time some troubles arose, and a group of folks took up adventuring to solve them. They were clever and tenacious, but often came to me for advice on how best to proceed. I was proud to help them in what small ways I could and they solve many problems.

Unfortunately I was not wise enough to see that I was becoming their crutch. When faced with difficulty, rather than relying on their own experience and knowledge they turned to me, and although I gave them the best advice I could I have never been an adventurer. Inevitably they came to me one day with incomplete information and assumptions and my own distance from the problem prevented me from realizing it. I gave my best advice and it got several of them killed.

Everyone was devastated. Among some adventuring groups they manage to appeal to Gargul to return their lost members, but in this case such appeals failed. The group fell apart and many left the area. Theadric’s the only one still around, and though he never blamed me I always blamed myself. I swore if another group ever got started I wouldn’t make the same mistake. I’d let them learn to rely on themselves, rather than an old wiseman that knew nothing of adventuring and could only provide bad advice.”

He drinks his tea some more. ”So that is why I’ve been avolding you. I didn’t want to risk you insisting on asking for my advice, to many can’t take no for an answer, nor would I risk giving it. But now, by my guess, you’ve had your grandest adventure yet and things will wind down from here. I can, perhaps, explain myself and maybe we can exchange wisdom between an old man and you old hands in the future.”

At some point during the day Nikolai and Prudence gather everyone to say their goodbyes before they head out.


Succotash (Jeremy) AC 43(42)/18/40 CMD 25 HP 142/142 Valerie AC 41(40)/16/34 CMD 34 HP 170(143)/170(143)Spells 
Thursday September 22nd, 2022 12:48:56 PM
Succotash listens to McGregor"s words and says, "Your words make sense, but I have to say, based on the groups track record, I don't think it would have been a problem. Though things seemed to work out in the end, We had a history of rejecting wisdom, and instead of listening to sound advice, doing things our own way."

As Pru and Nik prepare to leave, Succotash gives each of them a good long hug. "We haven't known each other long, but You two have found a permanent place in my heart. If you ever need a travel cleric and his dino friend, don't hesitate to look me up!"

Finally he approaches Tali and says, "When you first joined our group, you had mentioned you didn't know your past, Maybe Pressi can help, but I have decided that if you are going to seek some answers, I would like to join you. If Pressi can't give us a starting point, perhaps the great library at the floating city may be a good place to start."

Kezzem Humblesword (BrianW) 
Thursday September 22nd, 2022 6:53:26 PM
"Ah, yeah, I should probably get a business manger or something," says Kezzem Humblesword. "Being organized is not my strength. But I do have a name: 'The Kezzem Humblesword Center for Kids Who Can't Rogue Good and Want to Learn to Do Other Stuff Good Too.'"



Tali (JonPaul) AC:42 (T:38, FF:36), CMD:, Saves:(F:20/R:22/W:25), HP:135/135 
Thursday September 22nd, 2022 8:15:07 PM
[u][b]The Farewells[b][u]

Tali makes sure she doesn't miss the departures of Sir Nikolai & Lady Prudence. She hugs them both and wishes them a safe journey home.

Turning to Sir Succotash, Tali says, "That would be swell..."



Pressi (Melvin) - AC (33) 29, HP 217, CMD (30) 27; Harper AC 35, HP 117, CMD 35 
Thursday September 22nd, 2022 9:38:27 PM

Pressi's normal sharp wit seems to be absent as McGregor gives his excuse. "Well, you're here now for what we truly sought you out for. To get to know you, and your organization."

Later, she would pull McGregor aside, tell him that she was planning to get rid of the woldsblood within her. Except...

"How did you deal with it?" she finally asked. "The being apart, the failure, the doubt. The question of whether maybe you were destined for something else. How did you keep going?"

(I'd be more into otherwise picking his brain but I don't remember why Murphy in particular kept reaching out.)

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

At any event, removing those spells would have to wait, as Succotash pointed out that she could help track Tali's identity. "I... I can give you some assistance, sure. A few spells, some of my own research, maybe the coven sees something...."

A little voice told her that starting a family and political career might have to wait. These kinds of things don't end with a divination and a trip to the library.

But after all....

Pulling Tali aside, "You know, I don't exactly have a great history of getting along with female spellcasters. And maybe it's that I met you at a time I was starting to cast myself. But also, I think it was always your nature and levity, a reminder that I didn't always have to just brood or have the world on my shoulders. It's been good having someone to spellcast with, and to just hang out. So of course I will help you in any way I can. You mean the world to me."



Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 47 Tch 39 Ffted 40 HP 175/175 CMD 52/54(Grapple/Trip/Disarm)  
Friday September 23rd, 2022 12:28:35 AM
Nikolai hugs everyone (that hugs him, at least) and thanks everyone for their openness in accepting non-halflings into their unique 'gang'. "It has been an honor to work with Humbles Sword. I know I had some harsh words here and there but don't take it personal. Military training helps a recruit take harsh words and turn them into a learning experience because the recruit knows his commander would rather have him learn and live than not say anything and he not learn and die. As far as Law and Contracts go, you are more than welcome to become a temporary Mailed Fist Recruit to study the Contracts branch of our organization at no charge. It is a year-long course though." he grins.

Murphy Halfling Druid (Kim McCoy) 
Friday September 23rd, 2022 12:46:36 AM

Murphy Bumblebee listens to the wise old halfling. "We talked with Theadric a few times. Once he tried to get us to pull out of the Crescent Valley Games with a report that the biguns were about to overrun Humble's Ford. He seemed very ernest, but elements of what he said did not seem quite to fall fully into place, and we think someone might have been trying to use him against us, without him quite realizing so. However, Theadric was correct in a larger sense. A few ogre mages were hiring other biguns, as well as some halflings and small goblinoids, to come against the Valley. High priestess Sarabella Lovesong was assassinated by a group of thugs paid by Idafeatu, an ogre mage who was living up at the old Parley House in the Red Hills. We heard verification from his own lips of that, and when he tried to kill us, we took him down. He almost killed my cat, too."

He is glad that Succotash has also joined in the conversation. He grins at the cleric's evaluation.

To McGregor, he says, "Thank you for explaining yourself. It sounds like the grief of their loss has haunted you for some time." He thinks for a moment. "One time, some local bullies were giving me a bad time. My mother gave me counsel that might have worked well were I a girl, but it did not quite work as she thought it would, since I was a boy, and sometimes the rules are different. Heeding her that time made me think on later occasions that I needed to understand even one's beloved parents can sometimes not see things so clearly in every instance. Really, I can't think of another time that listening to her did not turn out well. She loved me, it was so easy to forgive her that one situational lack of insight, and I've never held it against her. We are mortal, all of us have blind spots.

"If anything, as they knew your heart for them, and love and care of them, how could they hold against you a lack of omniscience? Perhaps the Jericho, or, if there is One even above him, has perfect insight, foresight, and understanding. How can we who live mere scores of years match that level of knowledge and wisdom? I am no cleric, not one who can give absolution. Yet, I imagine, were the greatest and wisest of immortals to answer you, as you acknowledged what happened, and truly meant no harm, that One, or those ones, might say, 'You have repented. You have learned. You have changed. Those things are marks of wisdom. You are forgiven, McGregor Headwise.'" He shrugs his shoulders. "Yet, what do I know?"

He has another cup of tea, and takes from the plate of biscuits that Alouryn left us earlier. "I do have some ideas to come up with some specialized agricultural spells to help augment and target the verdant fertility of the Valley. Yet I want also to ensure that such are used judiciously. Perhaps we can discuss that topic at a later time."

Murphy's ears are open for anything further this paragon might have to say. As the conversation winds down, he suggests, "Perhaps we can meet from time to time now that we are looking to settle down." He looks over to his wife, and says, "I sense that Pressi may have a thing or two to chat with you about, Mister Headwise. I promised my friend, Kade, to go on an underground tour of the fungi he has been growing just north of here, if you'd be so kind as to excuse me. But before I leave, think this over. We would be happy to serve you any way you might need. Simply let us know." He gives a polite bow to their most welcome guest as he exits the room on his next errand.

Murphy Halfling Druid (Kim McCoy) 
Friday September 23rd, 2022 1:11:27 AM

Murphy gives Nikolai and Pru hugs. "Nik, 'as iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another,' said some wise fellow long ago. You helped to make us sharper. I would rather receive a correctional blow from a faithful friend than flattering praise from a perverse enemy any day."

As news of the opportunity to study Law and Contracts is brought up, Murphy's ears perk up. "Really? I could do that?" He thinks a moment. "I'll bet you ten pushups I could get through the readings in six months or less, once I start! If it's all lecture, though, well, I can only listen as fast as people speak, so no bets on that side of the course. There are a few other tasks I must attend to before I would be able to take you up on that - and I'll need to see what Pressi might think about me taking the time for it. But I take seriously your kind offer!"

As a going away present, he gives them a large basket with flowers. "It has six pockets, like a handy haversack, or Bill's pants o' plenty, each filled with different foods, separately wrapped and labeled. I had Kade put together a dozen types of some of our best fungi, mushrooms, y'know. Also there are five different cheeses from Crescent Valley. There are several bread surprises. A few bottles of wine, and of Brock's Best Beer. And here," he indicates, pulling out a parchment scroll, "is a list of everything within the basket, and how to pair with various complementary foods, drinks, whether with or without alcohol, and recipes. We never gave you a wedding present, you two. So, well, here! Thanks for spending your honeymoon with us! Now, when you can, go and have a real honeymoon!"

Prudence Komonov [AC 28; HP 194/194] 
Friday September 23rd, 2022 12:55:29 PM
Pru likewise hugs everyone goodbye, and returns the farewells. When they are ready, she takes Nikolai's hand and teleports away.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC (33) 29, HP 217, CMD (30) 27; Harper AC 35, HP 117, CMD 35 
Friday September 23rd, 2022 9:31:52 PM

Pressi chuckles at the thought of Murphy going through contracts. "I thought we were clearly on the side of chaos."

She thinks a little more before they leave. "We did learn a lot from you. And who knows, maybe you learned a little bit from us, as well. If you ever need a couple of pains in the rear who can ride the wave of chaos, or just some extra spells and muscle, we'd be glad to return the favor."

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

Pressi took some time to pull Kezzem aside. "Wow, so, underprivileged youth. I can't even be near the teenager at the theater without breaking out into hives." She breathed. "I think it's wonderful that you're doing that, and I think it'll bring you a lot of happiness.

"I've been telling everyone in town how much they meant to me, but you've known me far longer than when I even considered being a hero. When I was lost in the woods, you were the one beside me, making me laugh, bringing me luck... and watching out for me. You weren't just my friend, you were always my brother. And I sometimes took that for granted but I never forgot how much you meant to me."

Tali (JonPaul) AC:42 (T:38, FF:36), CMD:, Saves:(F:20/R:22/W:25), HP:135/135 
Friday September 23rd, 2022 9:47:18 PM
Tali continues to wave long after her newly met friends, teleport away.

Tali thinks to herself, "Wow, retirement is just around the corner!"...

DM Mitch 
Saturday September 24th, 2022 8:22:00 AM
Succotash tells McGregor his reasoning makes sense but it might not have mattered with their group who had a history of rejecting wisdom and doing things their own way. When Nikolai and Pru prepare to go he says the two of them have found a permanent place in his heart and if they ever need a travel cleric with a dino friend don’t hesitate to look them up. He also agrees to help Tali suggesting maybe Pressi can give them a starting point or failing that the great library at the Float might be a good place to start.
Kezzem tells the mayor he should probably get a business manager or something as organization was never his strong suit. He also reveals the name of his new project as 'The Kezzem Humblesword Center for Kids Who Can't Rogue Good and Want to Learn to Do Other Stuff Good Too.'

Tali makes sure she doesn’t miss the departure of Nikolai and Pru and hugs them both wishing them a safe journey home. She tells Succotash that having his help would be swell.

Pressi spares McGregor her sharp wit and says he’s here now so they can get to know him and his organization. She then pulls him aside and tells him of her plan to get rid of her Woldsblood fueled powers and asks him how he dealt with the failure, the doubt, and the question of wondering if he were meant for something else. However those plans would have to wait as she agrees to help Succotash and Tali in their endeavor revealing to Tali that it was good to have her share in those experiences and that she would help Tali in anyway considering Tali was one of the few female spellcasters Pressi gelled with.
Nikolai returns hugs, talks about harsh words and learning experiences, and tells Murphy he can come study contract law anytime.
Murphy talks about being haunted by old mistakes, a childhood incident, and future visits from McGregor. He says goodbye to Nikolai, gives them a parting gift, and says he looks forward to law lessons.
Pru also gives hugs all around.
Pressi comments that she thought they were clearly on the side of chaos. She pulls Kezzem aside for a talk.
Tali waves a long time and reflects on retirement.

Upon hearing of Kezzem’s new project George takes some time from his busy schedule at Humble’s Sword Sanctuary to build a tiny scale model of what George envisions the The Kezzem Humblesword Center for Kids Who Can't Rogue Good and Want to Learn to Do Other Stuff Good Too.' and presents it to the paladin. The model is a building with a plaque that reads the name of the building over the doors. And on top of the building itself is a stylized set of thieves tools.

McGregor chuckles as Murphy tells his story about his mom. ”Oh I forgave myself a long time ago. I’m old and wise after all, but I couldn’t really call myself Wise Old McGregor if I didn’t learn from my mistakes and seek not to repeat them. I took a measure of your group when you first started during the contest and I knew you’d turn into something special. I just had to stay away long enough for you to learn to stand on your own. I considered having this conversation years ago, but I admit by that point the game of keep away amused me so I kept it up. Now though I’d be happy to come enjoy more of this wonderful tea” He arranged for future tea dates before taking his leave.

Pru and Nikolai say their good byes and return home to the citadel. Things have started to change a little in the pair’s absence as they are maybe a league out from the fortress when a pair of hawks land nearby and reveal themselves to actually be Anna Morphling and another Fist member that Nikolai and Pru aren’t familiar with.

Anna says to Nikolai and Pru, “I’ve started recruiting and training my own squad. This is Dharby. He’s a druid and the first member of my land, sea, air operation / stealth recon unit. Tinker, Michael, Sigvar and Trayvin will all be happy to see you. The citadel seemed a lot emptier with the two of you and Pompous gone. Of course I don’t think he’ll be back as his family business seemed rather urgent. So how was your honeymoon? Did anything eventful happen? Seems like you guys have been gone quite a while.”


Succotash (Jeremy) AC 43(42)/18/40 CMD 25 HP 142/142 Valerie AC 41(40)/16/34 CMD 34 HP 170(143)/170(143)Spells 
Monday September 26th, 2022 1:06:46 PM
After Pru an Nik leave, Succotash gathers his friends together.

"As you know, when Tali joined us, she mention a lack of knowledge of her past. I have decided to help her try to find some understanding as to who her people are, and where she came from. Pressi has graciously offered to try to cast some spells, in hopes of giving Tali and I some direction to begin our search. If that fails, I suggested we head to the float and begin our search there, at the great library. It seems, I'm not cut out for a stationary life. Even in retirement, I feel the need to be out doing something, as I fear just sitting around growing old will send me to an early grave. Once we find the answers to Tali's questions, maybe I will finally be able to settle down, but my mind won't let me rest if there is an enigma that needs solving.

Tali is dear to all of us, and I'm sure you all understand why I desire to help her, and I'm sure you would join us if you didn't already have such noble plans. Press and Muph, you two need to take the time to really explore what married life has to offer, and Kezzem, your school is such a noble idea, to put it on hold would be tragic. Also Kezzem, I could be wrong in this, But I swear I saw a spark between you and Candy Badapple. Maybe you may want to look into changing her last name to Humblesword.

Anyway, Pressi could you cast your spells? I would like to begin our search."

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