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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."

Pressi (Melvin) - AC (33) 29, HP 217, CMD (30) 27; Harper AC 35, HP 117, CMD 35
Monday September 26th, 2022 4:12:37 PM
Before casting spells, Pressi consults with the gods as to whether she’d get any answers.

Kezzem Humblesword (BrianW)
Monday September 26th, 2022 5:16:11 PM
"That's impressive and all that you made that so fast," says Kezzem, "But if I might make one suggestion, maybe make the real school a bit bigger maybe? It needs to be at least 20% larger."

Tali (JonPaul) AC:42 (T:38, FF:36), CMD:, Saves:(F:20/R:22/W:25), HP:135/135
Monday September 26th, 2022 9:39:03 PM
[u][b]To The Next Great Adventure![b][u]

Tali gathers her stuff and brings Rayya this time. "You know friend, you really need to get out more often! Wanna take an awesome adventure?" Tali asks her familiar by way of the telepathic link shared between the master and familiar. Rayya nods and then yawns. Tali looks sternly a Rayya retorting telepathically, Don't you know that action is contagious?" Tali yawns in Rayya's direction.

Prudence Komonov [AC 28; HP 194/194]
Monday September 26th, 2022 10:03:43 PM
"Anna!" Pru exclaims. "It's good to see you again. Yes, the honeymoon turned out to be quite eventful, but it's a tale best told over drinks at the Last Assignment."

Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 47 Tch 39 Ffted 40 HP 175/175 CMD 52/54(Grapple/Trip/Disarm)
Monday September 26th, 2022 11:03:25 PM
"Great to see you, Anna, and Dharby. Honeymoon took a detour. I'll have a full report ready in a day or two, but I'm sure it will sound dry and boring after rounds of drinks at the Last Assignment. Then, if nothing pressing is going on, we'll try our honeymoon again, right, Pru?" Nikolai grins.

Murphy Halfling Druid (Kim McCoy)
Monday September 26th, 2022 11:48:31 PM

Time with Pressi
"Take your time, love, in the decisions you take. I loved you as a monk, rogue, spellcaster, blood witch, and always as my dear friend, and now companion for life. I shall always choose to keep on loving you. If we ever become old and doddering, I shall still love you in a doddering fashion, and hold your hand, and give you kisses. Forgive me if I ever reach the point where I slobber as I do so," he teases.

"If, perhaps, we have children, naming them, raising them, and watching them win, lose, draw, make mistakes, do some good, and even become parents themselves - let us stand together, doing what we can to help shape their lives when it is our time to do so, and release them to the Wold when that time arrives." He pauses, then asks, "All right, quiz time: How many words were in that last sentence?"

Murphy Halfling Druid (Kim McCoy)
Tuesday September 27th, 2022 4:06:09 AM

Already Murphy has offered several times to join in helping Tali delve into her family background. He reminds people of the married couple outside of Hovel who had sensed some aspects of her bloodline.

DM Mitch
Tuesday September 27th, 2022 6:23:11 AM
Succotash tells the others about his yen to help Tali discover the truth of her past and that Pressi has graciously agreed to help with some spells. If that doesn’t give them a place to start their first stop will be the Float to check out its library. He also tells the others he’d ask them to join them but they already seemingly have other already noble plans.
Pressi consults with the Gods before casting the spells to determine if she’d get answers.
Kezzem tells George what he created is impressive but he should maybe make the real school at least 20% bigger.
Tali collects Rayya this time and tells her they are going on an adventure.
Murphy tells Pressi to take her time and that he will love her no matter what even if older in a doddering fashion. He also suggests that if they should have children raising them and then releasing them to the Wold when the time is right will keep them occupied and then administers a sort-of cognitive test. He reminds the party of a clue they once found.

Pressi’s inquiries to the gods are mixed. They seem to indicate that her spells will give answers, but whether those answers will let Tali answer her questions is unclear.

George responds to Kezzem, “What did you think this was a school for ants? Of course the actual structure will be bigger. Related question; are you expecting to potentially be taking in bigun’ children too at some point or will your school be exclusively halfling? If the former it will obviously need to be even bigger than 20%.”

Meanwhile Near the Citadel…
Pru tells Anna it is good to see her and then suggests the tale of the honeymoon is best told over drinks at the last assignment
Nikolai explains their honeymoon took a detour and that they’ll tell them about it over drinks at the last assignment with a full report ready in a day or two. After that if nothing pressing is going on they’ll probably retry their honeymoon again.

Anna says to Pru, “In that case then to the Last Assignment.”
Anna says to Nikolai, “Well I do so want you two to be happy dear friends, but I’m sad to hear you’ll be leaving again so soon after you just got back.”

Anna, Dharby, Nikolai and Pru all return to the citadel. She shows them to their quarters, “We kept them the way you had them when you last here. As you can see nothing is distrubed.”

After they’ve been given a chance to get the road dust cleared everyone heads down to the Last Assignment where they are joined by Michael, Trayvin, Tinker and Sigvar who like Anna are all overjoyed to see the pair once again.

Word has spread fast through the citadel of the return of the two Knights Commander Emeriti and so the bar is more crowded than usual as other Mailed Fist folk are interested to hear the most recent story of the last adventure for two members of the Agents of The Fist.

Despite all this no one wants to be the poor sop who was responsible for the delay of serving the Knight Commanders so everyone is quick to not be in the way of their leaders’ night out.

Kezzem Humblesword (BrianW)
Tuesday September 27th, 2022 10:54:31 AM
"I mean, yes, my aunts are short, but they are not they are not THAT short. I wasn't planning on having biggies, but I guess I should exclude them. So make it 30% or 40% bigger I guess? Or whatever. I don't know how percents work."

Prudence Komonov [AC 28; HP 194/194]
Tuesday September 27th, 2022 5:51:53 PM
"Well, there was this group of halfling adventurers," Pru begins. "And there were these giants..."

She begins the tale, at some point stopping and handing it off to Nikolai.

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 27th, 2022 9:07:17 PM
Succotash walks to hear the results of Pressi's conversation.

Tali (JonPaul) AC:42 (T:38, FF:36), CMD:, Saves:(F:20/R:22/W:25), HP:135/135
Tuesday September 27th, 2022 9:39:20 PM
To The Next Great Adventure!

Tali awaits Pressi's findings before deciding where to start. Rayya stays close to Tali, currently standing on her right shoulder.

Murphy Halfling Druid (Kim McCoy)
Wednesday September 28th, 2022 5:19:18 AM
Notes regarding Talia

Talia's first post was Sunday, July 8th, 2018. Within the first few days of posting she asks about genealogists and historians, and lets on that she'd like to learn of her family background. Conversation on the topic, with some insights, continues through about July 16, 2018.

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

There is some dense posting over that week, but meeting with Farley and Lois do reveal some leads...

DM Mitch
Wednesday September 28th, 2022 7:59:27 AM
Kezzem says his aunts are short but they are not THAT short and then says he wasn’t planning on having Biggies but he didn’t want to be exclusive so it needs to be bigger but he confesses he doesn’t know how percentages work.
Succotash waits to hear the results of Pressi’s conversation.
Tali also waits to hear Pressi’s results with Rayya perched on her shoulder.
Murphy thinks back and gathers all the leads they’ve had before.

Clues are gathered, spells are cast, and discussions are had. Unfortunately no clear answers are gotten. There are many strong possibilities, and divination hints the answers lie outside the valley, but it will likely take a lot of legwork and possibly a bit of adventuring to actually get the answer.

Kezzem’s plans are adjusted to account for possible biggun attendees and final details are agreed on.

Meanwhile back at the citadel…
Pru begins to tell the tail of their latest adventure ready to hand it off to Nikolai at some point.

Anna says, “Those halflings sound like quite the eclectic bunch, though it sounds like some of them could have used some discipline. Any chance any of them might want to enlist?”

The other knights commanders fill in Nikolai and Pru of what has transpired at the citadel in the couple’s absence. The stories are not as exciting as Pru and Nikolais. The most eventful thing is the recruitment of Dharby giving Anna someone she can go on long wild shape patrols with of course Dharby needs to sleep so Anna still has a portion of her day where it is just her since she is a plant kin and can forgo sleep with sunlight.

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 28th, 2022 11:31:18 AM
"Well Tali, would you like to check in with Murph's aunt, or head to the float?"

***Attention DMs Jon Paul and I have discussed this via email previously, and unless he has changed his mind since, we weren't necessarily looking to answers Tali's questions, but more or less, thought it would be fun to have Tali and Succotash riding off into the sunset, on a new adventure.***

Prudence Komonov [AC 28; HP 194/194]
Wednesday September 28th, 2022 2:10:29 PM
"No," says Pru. "I doubt any would want to enlist. I think most of them plan to retire and stay in Humble's Ford."

Murphy Halfling Druid (Kim McCoy)
Wednesday September 28th, 2022 4:06:01 PM

[OOC: And, considering that Succotash was originally flat smitten with Talia (her name back then), it would not be surprising to see them riding through a series of sunsets together. Title a novel: "The Cleric and the Sorceress"]

Kezzem Humblesword (BrianW)
Wednesday September 28th, 2022 7:31:31 PM
Kezzem tries to enlist the Bad Apples as mentors for his new center.

Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 47 Tch 39 Ffted 40 HP 175/175 CMD 52/54(Grapple/Trip/Disarm)
Wednesday September 28th, 2022 8:18:54 PM
OOC: sorry to have missed the post yesterday. We had to make that hard decision all pet owners have to do at some point. The house seems a bit empty today.

IC: Nikolai takes up the tale from the Pocket Realm and goes through the battle with the Fire Giants and stops with their deal with the Fire Giant Head Priest and hands it back over to Pru.

"We might see one halfling, Murphy, pay a visit to study Contracts and Law. But, other than that, they've got their hands full over there where they are as is."

Tali (JonPaul) AC:42 (T:38, FF:36), CMD:, Saves:(F:20/R:22/W:25), HP:135/135
Wednesday September 28th, 2022 8:42:16 PM
Tali and Succotash riding/hovering off into the sunset, on a new adventure

OOC: Our condolences for your family's loss.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC (33) 29, HP 217, CMD (30) 27; Harper AC 35, HP 117, CMD 35
Wednesday September 28th, 2022 9:02:31 PM

Pressi updates Tali with whatever notes she can gather, which isn't much. She can give some connections but she admits that she's done the rootless hero for long enough. All that chasing of glory, but what she really wanted was to just be home.

Much of the rest of her time the next couple of days involves catching up with old friends she adventured with. Shel, Alleah, Bliss, Hobie. The various people in the covens, in the mayor's office, in the varied bars. The couple of sisters that had made their way to Humble's Ford. Hazel and Alroun in the Flower Temple.

It isn't long before she starts asking questions, starts thinking of where to start running her first campaign. It is after she went up a mountain with some wish diamonds, but any questions as to whether she removed her magic is simply met with a smile.

She does make plans of her own, discussing returning to Angel Springs with Murphy. And, maybe, continuing Bliss' dream of another home for halflings, another colony.

At last, she finally sits down next to Murphy in a moment of privacy. She reminisces about the time they first met, the time she joined the group. The struggles, the great moments, the times when he was her rock, the times when he let her show her emotion. Of all the things that he gave her.

And of how much she was willing to share the next chapter of her life, that was coming sooner than he thought.

With another moment of sipping water instead of any alcohol, she cleared her throat. "So the doctor confirmed something that I already had divined. About those amazing kids that you keep bringing up...."

(OOC: I'll probably continue to make small posts depending on how much longer the DM wants to run this, but I'm planning that tomorrow's post will probably end her plotline.)

Murphy Halfling Druid (Kim McCoy)
Thursday September 29th, 2022 4:44:26 AM
Pressi further endears herself to Murphy by setting aside time to remember their history together. He smiles, nods, and listens, and adds here and there to the reminiscence. Then, at her last bit of news, he erupts in joy, taking her by her hands and dancing in a circle, then embracing her in a squeezingly snug hug. "We're parents! Mama and Papa! Papa and Mama!"

After a few minutes of celebration, he takes a few deep breaths, and says, "Let me know when we can tell others. I mean, after a bit some will start figuring it out but... Pressi!" He kisses her in joy, then kisses her stomach. "Hi baby!" He then looks up. "Babies?"

Murphy Halfling Druid (Kim McCoy)
Thursday September 29th, 2022 4:50:52 AM

Besides the joys of preparing for fatherhood, and setting up a nursery, and getting advice from his folks, and his siblings who are bringing up Murphy's nieces and nephews... there are many other projects he has in mind. None of greater personal import than what Pressi just told him, though. "Say, what do you think about seeing if we can visit the Birthing Tree in the Culverwood at the right time? It's kind of a family tradition."

Nonetheless, here is a short list (Note: This definitely goes longer than generally allowed for post length):

• Humble's Ford tunnel design and construction, working out details with leaders, businesses, and citizenry.
• Subterranean development of the Sanctuary of Humble's Sword, coordinating with our dwarf fungi expert
• Development of the buildings and features at the Sanctuary. Develop a great children's playground there. Also, make a site on the grounds for good training and obstacle courses. Perhaps the Sanctuary can have an area set aside within as a local outpost for the WLA.
• Meeting about once a fortnight with McGregor Headwise, and gradually inviting other luminaries of the village to regular get-togethers to consider community matters
• Plan and plot with Pressi on her political aspirations. Perhaps, down the road, he'll get more involved on the political leadership side of things, too. At the very least do what he can to maintain good relations with members of the political structure.
• Take the journals he has assembled down through the years of adventuring, and develop a novel based upon it. Write some short stories, parables, a few children's books, a small collection of poetry and song
• Occasionally wildshape and join with the air elementals in playing music at the tall white spire put up a few years ago.
• Help out Kezzem from time to time at his place for youth development
• Wildshape to wind dance with the air elementals at the White Spire we erected a few years back. Wildshape into other elemental forms from time to time, and into animals, birds, dinosaurs, plants, etc. for various occasions and purposes.
• Visit the moon called Kerracles to take advantage of the libraries up there, and meet with the ant people to ensure they are doing all right, and are adhering to the agreement they made with Humble's Sword. He wants to spend a few weeks every year getting to know more and more about the moon.
• Also visit the moon Wardd, get to know it.
• Study astronomy
• Keep up with what the Second Dinner Club is up to. Research and document the Giant Towers' defenses.
• Help further develop and maintain defenses for Humble's Ford and Crescent Valley.
• After a few years, start helping out in teaching at the local school.
• Develop an extensive library.
• Since Pressi would like to spend time in Angel Springs, Murphy makes sure to establish a home for them there. Of course, there is the family business - Winwood Music and Toys. Leska and Nalfein are not the only family members working there now. They've been training up a few nieces and nephews to help them out.
• Help lay the groundwork with his family to establish a Winwood Music and Toys store in Plateau City
• Study Teucri history and artifacts.
• Visit their storm giant friends.
• Visit others they have met in the course of their adventures.
• As their family grows, take a regular, daily role in helping in the formation of their children. Teaching, playing, giving them lots of experiences, teaching them a few different languages, and staying in strong relationship with his wife to present a united front to the children.
• After a few years, figure out a way to study laws and contracts with the Mailed Fist without severely compromising his other commitments. Murph's pretty smart, and a quick study. He may see what he can do about borrowing books to study at home, mixed with on-site training, lectures, etc., too. He will be diligent to do well at any writing assignments given.
• Host with Pressi an annual reunion for all prior members of Humble's Sword. Feast, tell stories, and give fun and silly awards in commemoration of past exploits and quirks.
• This really is a short list compared to what I could enumerate! :-)

DM Mitch
Thursday September 29th, 2022 7:13:29 AM
Succotash asks Tali if she’d like to check with Murphy’s aunt or head to the float.
Kezzem tries to enlist the Bad Apples as new mentors for his center.
Tali is ready to ride off in the sunset with Succotash on a new adventure so it sounds like they are Floatward bound.
Pressi gives Tali what information she can which isn’t much then catches up with some of the folks in Humbles Sword discussing things like going back to Angel Springs or rekindling Bliss’s idea of another Halfling colony somewhere before taking Murphy aside and telling him some good news.
Murphy is ecstatic about the news and reflects on the billion things he’d like to do in retirement.

Kezzem is able to track down the Bad Apples and with a bit of convincing is able to recruit them to his project. Others work on preparations for leaving or their own projects.

Meanwhile back at the Citadel..

Nikolai suggests Murphy might come to visit and study
Pru confirms the others seemed interested in settling down in Humble’s Ford
Upon hearing of the treaty the Mailed Fist entered into with the Fire Giants of Fhorge’s pocket realm the other Knights commanders are interested to see Pru and Nikolai’s tribal paint and the stone tablet that marks the alliance.

Tinker asks, “Should we be worried this alliance with these Fire Giants might get The Fist in trouble one day? You did say they kept slaves and they are fire giants who as a race tend to have a reputation and it isn’t particularly good.”

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 29th, 2022 11:36:26 AM
Succotash preps Valerie for an adventure, and dons his armor, taking up his adventuring gear. With his friends near at hand, Succotash says,

"You are all so precious to me, and I hope that Tali and I can quickly locate her past so that we can return to this great estate, and such amazing friends. Congratulations Murph and Press, you guys are going to be amazing parents! Kezzem, I'm so glad you were able to recruit the Badapples, They have a bad reputation, but were have all come to learn that they truly have a heart of gold, and I can think of no one who would be better at helping wayward kids than former wayward kids, and lets face it, Candy is a great leader. With her help, you will have an amazing school. The sooner we depart, the sooner we can return, so I will not say farewell, instead I will say, "Until we meet again"!"

Succotash than gives everyone a heart felt hug, and steps back, places a hand on Valerie, and offers a hand to Tali and her feathered friend. He asks her, "Do you want to do the honors, or should I. I've never been to the Float, I can't wait to see it!" It is obvious that he is referring to casting a greater teleportation spell.

Pressi (Melvin) - AC (33) 29, HP 217, CMD (30) 27; Harper AC 35, HP 117, CMD 35
Thursday September 29th, 2022 9:10:26 PM

The headquarters for the Pressi-Bliss coven are empty.

Outside, people say goodbye to the varied departing heroes, make plans for the new structure, and consider moving to a new location. Eventually, Dolgrin will take over, and Pressi's sisters will remain somehow active. Granny remains active in her role of keeping things running.

But the mission is now changing, and in doubt. And some of the recruits consider retiring themselves. Jamir Badapple knows that his clan needs him. Mooncalf (the construct from the moon) and Eandoo (the kobold) wonder where their role is. La Rue feels pressure to return to the alchemist shop. Even Joy and Comfort are just going through the motions.

And the leadership has retired. The headquarters are empty.

Except for one delivery man.

He makes his way slowly to Dolgrin's desk, placing a folder down upon the rest of the piles. Clipped to it is a scried image of a giant cathedral, a skull shaped building shining purple in the night. And attached is a small note from the Southern Crones, a reminder that some people don't get to chose where to go.

His delivery done, the man disappears down the hallway. The folder remains, labeled "Nightmare Quarter."

Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 47 Tch 39 Ffted 40 HP 175/175 CMD 52/54(Grapple/Trip/Disarm)
Thursday September 29th, 2022 9:30:34 PM
Nikolai shows off his Fire Giant tattoo of the Mailed Fist. "Unfortunately I'm not a good artist but the fire giant tattooist is pretty good."

He answers Tinker, "I don't think there's any concern there. They live in a dimensional space supported by Fhorge himself. They were very clear that their one goal is to protect the Artifact that maintains the seal on Scald. They have everything they need there and don't venture out. As far as their view on slavery goes, some slaves are treated very well, not so much for some others, but they aren't the only ones to believe in that sort of servitude and are most likely not going to be asked to change the Wold in that respect. Not to mention they are a looooong ways away. If anything, we might be called upon to mediate some dispute, but even that is highly unlikely due to distance. On the other hand, if we need the services of Fire Giants to create some special item, say, to fight Frost Giants, well, we know where to go."

Prudence Komonov [AC 28; HP 194/194]
Thursday September 29th, 2022 10:16:35 PM
"As Nikolai said, they're a long way off," Pru says. "I think we should view it more as a non-aggression pact. They won't bother us if we don't bother them."

Murphy Halfling Druid (Kim McCoy)
Friday September 30th, 2022 5:23:11 AM

Murphy's followers...

Over a hundred people - many halflings, but also some dwarfs, humans, three elves, a few gnomes, and some adventurers - have gathered over the past couple of years as followers of the druid. Kendry, one of Murphy's older brothers, and a bard and adventurer in his own right has been his cohort. They talk things over. Murphy still has many projects to work on. Kendry himself is in support of many. They organize a series of meetings (including good food and drink), going over opportunities and challenges with them. Dwellings have been constructed for followers in the area surrounding the Sanctuary. Many have jobs in support of Humble's Sword, and Humble's Ford.

"I want you to understand the gratitude I feel for so many of you to have come alongside us in recent times. As you know, and as is the custom here in the Wold, after attaining a certain stature and skill set, most adventurers go into a life of retirement. Well, I feel too young to retire - yet also see some new directions to take. Family is important to me, as is community. What do we value? Learning combined with Wisdom; Justice tempered by Mercy; Diligence in doing our duties; Love of truth - and of truth spoken in love; Invention to improve our lot in life; and being the sort who looks to help others choose the Good, and forsake what is wrong - These are things I value. How about you?

"If you want to pursue these things with us, then I invite you to stay on. There are many roles to fill, many jobs to do, and many paths to choose from. Even at times much profit to make. I know a few of you have been attending services of Ffloy - others of Flower - and some of both.

"We are laying out options for you to consider. If any of you feel this is a time to depart, please do so with our blessing. For those who wish to remain, we will help you explore, and choose. Do you have friends or acquaintances not yet part of our community who you think would be good additions to our community? Invite them! We have plenty of work to do. Are you staying? We have plenty of work to do!"

Kendry then takes over, laying out a number of professions, roles, tasks, jobs, entrepreneurial opportunities, and even some adventuring options. He already has a pretty good feel for what the people's interests, inclinations, and skill sets are.

Kezzem Humblesword (BrianW)
Friday September 30th, 2022 2:14:19 PM
Kezzem heads towards the Dancing Pigs to put some flyers up for his new center and finds himself in the Giggling Ghost instead.

DM Mitch
Friday September 30th, 2022 7:05:34 PM
Succotash preps Valerie for an adventure, donning his armor and taking up his adventuring gear. He tells his friends they are precious to him, congratulates Pressi and Murphy and tells Kezzem he was glad the Bad Apples joined him and that the school will be amazing. He finishes with an “Until we meet again.”
Pressi’s covens headquarters are empty except for one delivery man dropping off a folder on Dolgrin’s desk labeled Nightmare Quarter
Murphy meets with his followers and discusses with them their future.

And so the tale of Humble’s Sword ends, not with a great battle or party, but with life. It going on as people start new adventures to find their origin, to become parents, or just to help others find their way. Though they may no longer fight Wold ending threats their story and influence goes on to echo through the generations.

Meanwhile back at the Citadel…
(OOC: I feel like we are in an episode of Super Friends everytime I type this)
Nikolai shows off the tribal paint and says the Giants are good artists then says the agreement is more of a non aggression pact and that perhaps they’ll call upon the Fist for some kind of negotiation but the Giants are a long ways away and tend to stick to their realm. He also suggests the Giants may be able to craft them specialized weapons in the event the Fist needs to fight Frost Giants.
Pru agrees with Nikolai that the giants are a long ways off.

Michael remarks, “Too bad we didn’t know those guys when we were asked by the Griffins to investigate the happenings on that mountain. If I recall correctly the Frost Giants were pretty standoffish. Those weapons could have come in handy.”

The reunited Agents of The Fist minus Pompous enjoy their time together long into the night but eventually they start to slowly depart back to their individual quarters. Nikolai, Pru and Anna are the last three members left in the Last Assignment.

Anna says to Pru and Nikolai, “I take it back. After hearing all you have dealt with I’d say you guys deserve a real honeymoon. This time I’d suggest if you come across any halfling adventurers or murder investigations you go the other way. You know Nikolai I don’t necessarily think you need to write that report right away. You see I had Cedric de Mowbray listening in at that table over there,” and she points to a nearby table where a man had been sitting alone writing things in a journal, “and noting down what you said and I think that could serve as enough of a report for now. Why delay your real honeymoon any longer? I mean sure it would be nice to spend more time with you guys but we’ll have plenty of time for that whenever you come back next time to stay.”

Whether Nikolai and Pru take advantage of Cedric’s scribed notes or Nikolai takes the time for his full report, not long after that night at the Last Assignment Pru and Nikolai are once again packed for the road.
The pair set off on a real honeymoon. A pair of hawks fly overhead until the pair are leagues away from the Citadel and well on their way.

Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 47 Tch 39 Ffted 40 HP 175/175 CMD 52/54(Grapple/Trip/Disarm)
Friday September 30th, 2022 8:47:34 PM
Nikolai enjoys the reunion with his fellow Knight Commanders. It was the first time they had been apart since the day they were selected by Knight Commander Palance as the Mailed Fist Special Forces. Since he and Pru will be back, when they part for the night it is with a light heart.

On the road the next day, he stops a moment and turns to Pru, "You know, this looks like that road we were on years ago when Sgt. Trammack test us to see who would be chosen as the Thumb for the newly formed Agents of the Fist. It has been an amazing journey, with happiness and sadness. Lives saved and lives lost, and, of course, lives brought back!" he laughs. 'But of all that, because of you, I'd do it all over again!" and he gives her a big kiss and hug.

Prudence Komonov (Kathy Ice) [AC 28; HP 194/194]
Friday September 30th, 2022 11:58:58 PM
Pru returns Nikolai's hug and kiss. "Married life is going to be a completely new type of adventure, and I can't wait to get started!"

Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 47 Tch 39 Ffted 40 HP 175/175 CMD 52/54(Grapple/Trip/Disarm)
Sunday October 2nd, 2022 11:04:48 AM
Hand in hand, the two Knight Commanders, semi-retired from adventuring life (for that life is never truly over), head down the road to a new live, and the new lives to care for.

Murphy Halfling Druid (Kim McCoy)
Wednesday October 12th, 2022 2:00:59 AM

Murphy says to Pressi. "After years of adventure, traveling the Wold, and even to a moon, I look forward to enjoying good domesticity for a good while, dear. Say, try this truffle."

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