[SFS - PbP Gameday VII] 1-10 The Half-Alive Streets - GM bigboom (Inactive)

Game Master bigboom

Please dot in here...

Here she is, she is only 1st level as the game she was in previously ended after the first encounter.

You've all been summoned to the Lorespire Complex by Venture-Captain Arvin (image unmasked in slides). The staff politely asks you to remain in a waiting room while the Venture-Captain is preparing to meet with you.

Feel free to go ahead and post your character introductions at any time.

A lean android in formal uniform with the insignia of the Exoguardians and a holy symbol of Iomedae stands easily.

"May the Spirit of Golarion grace our journeys," he says in a quiet prayer.

The lashunta female enters into the room

Another lashinta walks in to the waiting room. I'm Telwyn; pleasure to meet you. she responds to Raial.

"What is with these constant waiting rooms. Don't these bureaucrats know we have important work to be doing? Or at least more entertaining places to be! Ha!" Telwyn jokes as she takes a seat.

"Hurry up and wait seems to be the order of the day. Was no different in the barracks," Chogas observes.

Almost as if on cue, a member of the administrative staff steps in carrying a box and says, "The Venture Captain apologizes for the wait. He sends this as it may help pass the time while he prepares for your briefing."

You open the box and find a plethora of rulebooks, along with paper, pens, pencils, and various oddly shaped dice. It takes a moment to take in all the materials, but then it sinks in that before you is a hard copy of the Pathfinder role-playing game, 1st edition!

This must be worth a small fortune because 1) it is rare to find such a thoroughly complete hard copy set, and 2) unlike the current 5,837,264th edition, the 1st edition contains all manner of (by today's standards) esoteric, poorly worded and conflicting rules that give it a lovably quaint feel!

A tall man dressed in dirty tactical clothing over his second skin armor walks in. He is holding a wide brimed hat and seems like he has seen is fair share of desolate planets.

Looking at the box he says, First edition, eh? My father and I played a bit on our long journeys in the drift. Never got the hang of all the free and swift actions. Shall we roll up some toons while we wait. My father would always play the wizard, he had a thing for the devoting decades of your life to understanding the very strange.

He sits down pulls a sheet of paper and awkwardly holds a pen, not remembering the last time he used such archaic tools. He begins reading an adventure. So you all stand in a courtyard with a beautiful new cathedral in front of you. An old man begins to talk and welcomes you to the Swallowtail Festival.

I thought metagaming was discouraged? ;)

An early stage barathu floats in and extends a tentacle to touch the first edition books and leaf through them, picking up pen and paper with another tentacle and starts to roll some dice to construct a character according to the rules listed. One eye rolls around through it's morphing body to focus on this and that as it picks up something of interest.

At certain points it starts to descend a bit but then it produces some perfectly natural gas and starts to drift upwards once again as it bubbles out of it...it might be how it keeps a float..it might also just suffer from an upset stomach..who can tell with this unusual creatures.

Telwyn has seen paper and pencil games like this; back on Verces her employer was a major technophobe. "I don't quite understand the appeal of a game where every action you take can be boiled down into 5% increments of a chance for success or failure. It just seems so unrealistic..."

She is quite and pensive as she listens to the group.

Apparently "It's morph" triggers the little blue man easter egg.

lol

By smurf, I think I have got it

Are we starting soon?

Antares-1 is currently working through his session 1 game. They're currently looking to finish it up as quickly as possible. I anticipate we'll be starting up Oct 15.

With this in mind, if anyone wants to switch characters before we start, that's totally fine. Also, if anyone wants to use their character in a face to face or VTT game before we start, that's fine too. Your characters for this game are not locked yet and still available for other games until we start up the mission briefing.

After a while, an assistant comes into the room and announces, "The Venture Captain is ready to meet with you now. This way please."

You're led into a small reception room where a large vesk in a muscle shirt sits at a table, messily consuming the various laid-out refreshments. Venture-Captain Arvin stands on the opposite side of the table, visibly annoyed at the vesk, and turns toward the arriving Starfinders with some relief. “Thank you for your quick response. Some new technology has come to the Society’s attention”—the vesk clears his throat loudly, and Arvin’s eyebrow twitches in irritation—“from our… contact Julzakama. If you would…”

The vesk, Julzakama, stands, pulling a battered gym bag out from under the table. “Feast your eyes on this little gemling.” He reaches into the bag and removes what appears to be a severed human hand. Julzakama waves the limb then offers it to Arvin to shake.

Arvin declines the offered limb, rubbing his temples, and explains. “As you might have guessed, this is a prosthetic limb. It’s a standard cybernetic augmentation, but this one was made with a new type of biotech, so well grafted that it’s almost undetectable without magic. Its special features are just as well hidden.” Arvin takes the hand from Julzakama to demonstrate a nearly invisible compartment large enough to conceal a knife, several data drives, or a small toolkit. “Such technology would be invaluable for covert and diplomatic operations, and the Society would like to find the specialist who crafted and installed it. But therein lies the difficulty. Julzakama, if you could explain the… circumstances of this discovery?”

Julzakama holds up his hands, saying, “Now, I wasn’t personally involved. Some vesk workers known to some of my customers got in a territorial dispute with some manlings. Stuff happened, one of these guys turned his winnings over to my customer to settle a bet, and here we are.” Julzakama gestures at the hand, smiling ingratiatingly, and continues, “I thought you Starfinders might be interested.”

“Indeed, we are.” Arvin folds his hands behind his back. “Julzakama tells me that his acquaintances’ rivals had been known to acquire their gear from gray-market operations in the Freemarkets. As that is our only lead so far, I’d like you to investigate the area; even if none of the listed clinics are the source, they may have more information on who is.”

Image of Julzakama unmasked in slides.

Telwyn knows how to work in someplace like the Freemarkets. She tries to think if she has any contaccts or at least has heard of someone involved in this kind of business.

Culture: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (4) + 7 = 11 (Reduce the dc of culture checks to recall knowledge about the criminal underworld by 5)

She asks Julzakama "Just how often does 'stuff happen' that ends up with limbs trading ownership like this? Can we get more specifics on who your acquaintances are? I swear I won't tell anyone who told me!"

Klaathu bops up and down

"Investigating augmentations is right up my area of expertise"

Julzakama replies to Telwyn, "How often do fights happen and limbs get ripped off? Well, I hate to break it you guys livin' it up here in the Eye but down in the Spike, things get rough, y'know. But most of the time when an arm or a leg or a head gets ripped off, it's just messy, annoying and leaves stains - not valuable like this little piece of cyber-perfection here.

"And sorry toots. I don't reveal who my clients are. That's pawnshop/client confidentiality, y'know?"

Hearing Julzakama's response, Arvin closes his eyes momentarily and takes a few slow breathes in and out... in and out. He opens his eyes and ignoring Julzakama's obviously flawed confidentiality claim, he calmly states, "While tracking Julzakama's acquaintances down is one possibility, I'd prefer we not interact with Downlow gangs in our search for the source of this augmentation. See what you can learn in the Freemarkets and if you come up empty, then we can further discuss Julzakama's acquaintances."

"Very well. So we need to find out who installed this little gem. Good, we can do that. Do you have any leads or contacts in the free markets? Anyone that might cooperate with Starfinders who knows the ins and outs of the augmentation business?"

Culture Check: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (5) + 6 = 11
Life Science Check: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (12) + 9 = 21

Antares considers what she knows of cybernetic augmentation as well as the local scientists involved and speaks. "It is possible I might be able to find some information on the infosphere." The android suggests, having little experience nor skill in speaking with humans or other species, for that matter. But she is pretty good at getting data through computer hacking...

Computers Check: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (18) + 9 = 27

Antares is very weak in social interaction, but might be able to get some information either from her own knowledge of Life Science or hacking into the infosphere. Also threw a Culture check up there, since she has training in that skill as well.

"Very well. So we need to find out who installed this little gem. Good, we can do that. Do you have any leads or contacts in the free markets? Anyone that might cooperate with Starfinders who knows the ins and outs of the augmentation business?"

Arvin replies, “We don't have any specific contacts at present, but it might be worth your time to check with the Markets’ AbadarCorp representatives for an updated list of operating permits. Also, if I recall correctly, there’s a directory of businesses near the entrance that’s updated monthly; you could check that for augmentation clinics. The Markets have a high turnover rate, though; businesses open and close all the time so that AbadarCorp representative may be your best source of information.”

"Alright, I don't have any other questions - yet. Shall we head out to the Markets?"

Yup let’s head out. There is only one way to get a hand on this issue and that is by getting in the thick of it and getting our hands dirty and asking questions. Kato thanks the VC and vesk and will leave when the other Starfinders are ready. Once outside the meeting room he says I suggest we start with the AbadarCorp rep. Does that work with the rest of you?

"Manlings -- so, humans? Or..."

Klaathu bops up and down, you assume he's trying to give what humanoids use for a nod with his head..but lacking most similar body parts he's just adapting to what he assumes will convey his meaning of agreement at Telwyn and Kato's suggestions

Antares agrees to Kato's suggestion, though the android will leave the negotiations up to those that are more socially active than she is.

The lashunta is quite during the exchange but is happy to be with the group.

"Manlings -- so, humans? Or..."

Julzakama replies, "Yes, that's right. Puny humans. All humans are small, really...."

And on that note, the briefing ends and the party departs the Lorespire Complex.

Everyone please slot your boons if you haven't already. If you have the 'AbadarCorp Respect' boon from '1–02 Fugitive on the Red Planet' then I suggest you slot it and let me know. You may also make any purchases before visiting the Freemarkets, if you wish.

Culture (Recall Knowledge) or Diplomacy (Gather Information) rolls can now be attempted to see what else the party knows about the Freemarkets. Telwyn and Antares-1 have already attempted this with their culture rolls. Everyone else may roll.

Sounds like the first thing the party does at the Freemarkets will be to track down the Abadarcorp representative. With this plan in mind, I'll advance to the next scene later today.

Is there space combat in this one?

No space combat

Culture: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (4) + 10 = 14

As they walk, Kato uses his com to look up some more info about biotechs, AbadarCorp, and the free markets. He shares any and all information with his fellow Starfinders. When it comes time to plan who will do the talking he says, I'm a suave as the back of a Venusian hedgehog when it comes to talking to folks. I can do it when I go about the right way but if I don't then it can end painfully. I'm happy to help but do we have a smooth-talking envoy with us?

Kato only has a +1 Diplomacy

Antares knows a bit about the differences between biotech implants and cybernetic augmentations, discussing it with the others so that they are aware of the distinctions and the importance of finding whoever is behind this relatively rare procedure.

Feel free to read the spoiler information for Antares-1

The party heads to the Freemarkets where gilded doors separate the Freemarkets from the previous station sector. The entrance area contains a sizable shrine to Abadar to the right; to the left, an office issues permits, takes complaints, and receives petitions. Through the entry zone, a giant signboard with a directory of businesses offers onlookers a way to locate their desired merchandise.

The walkways are laid out in an orderly manner, with lifts and staircases at regular intervals leading to the Markets’ three retail levels. Kiosks sporting AbadarCorp logos offer carts for rent and advertise delivery services. Other businesses promote themselves in a riot of lights, music, and recorded ad pitches. Businesses are not grouped by type; food stalls operate next to jewelry stores, and specialists repair high-end electronics next to secondhand clothing racks.

You immediately begin looking around for the Abadarcorp representative and after a short while, you spot a well-dressed shirren walking around quietly and closely examining the buzz of activity throughout the venue. His dress and demeanor stands out from the market's shop owners and shoppers who are more modestly dressed and a great deal more lively haggling over the price of goods.

Telwyn approaches the shirren, hoping he can point them in the right direction.

"Hi there, would you be able to direct us to a few biotech dealers? Looking for the latest and greatest in prosthetics, and I understand this may be the place. But there's so many vendors, I don't know where to even start..."

"It would help us out a lot if you could tell us"

Chogas keeps an eye out for trouble as he lets the others talk to the shirren.

Looks like no one has the AbadarCorp respect boon.

The shirren faces you and says, "Hello there. Well, most people simply look at the directory to find what shop they're looking for. However..." He checks his tablet computer, then looks back up at you. "However, it is true that some of the items on the directory board are outdated. At present, only three clinics have current permits for selling augments: Bioboost, The Cytech Clinic, and Metagenesis. I hope this helps."

As you talk with the shirren, you can hear a loud voice booming out of a shop nearby. "I'm tellin' ya George! Some areas of da station just ain't safe no more! Dem gangs are runnin loose all da time, pickin' fights! Innocent folks like you and me always gettin' caught in the middle when we're jus tryin' to live our lives, y'know? Well, at least da security here in da Freemarkets is good. AbadarCorp don't put up wit none o' dat crap! But dat don't help much when its time ta go home, y'know?!?!" The voice seems to be coming from a shop called Hard As Nails, a vesk barbershop specializing in horn grooming and detail scaling.

The shirren tut tuts a bit and says, "Ahhh... Vesk barbershops. Always lively establishments. Now if there's nothing else, I bid you a good day of shopping."

Unless anyone has anything further to say to the shirren, he'll turn and walk away.

"Thanks for the assistance." Telwyn smiles as the Shirren takes his leave.

She files away the Vesk conversation for later. More news of these gangs... We'll have to stay on guard if we get far from the busy streets around here.

"If I can judge a book by its cover, I say we try Metagenesis. It 'sounds' like the right one! But we should have no trouble hitting all three."

Before we go, do you know which of these three clinics has the best reputation. We are looking for the highest quality biotech. We cannot settle for anything less than the very best.

Antares wonders if the place they are seeking might not even have a permit at all, but figures that Metagenesis sounds as good as any.

The shirren replies to Kato, "My apologies. I won't be able to advise you regarding the quality of these clinics. But I'm sure an astute group such as yourselves will be able to visit them all and draw your own conclusions, yes? Have a good day." He gives you a polite nod and walks away.

The party pulls up a map of the Freemarketes and locates Metagenesis and you head over there with no difficulty. When you arrive, the proprietor, a male verthani, greets you. "Hello! My name is Chryson. I specialize in broad-spectrum biotech augments - chameleon skin, gill sheaths, personal upgrades that boost your performance in a variety of activities..." He smiles broadly. "So! What can I do for you?"

"We're looking for hands! Our client - who wishes to remain anonymous - needs the latest greatest in manual amplification."

Telwyn tries to make it sound just a little edgy, hoping that the apparent secrecy will lead to a better tip.

Bluff: 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (9) + 13 = 22

Chryson says, "Ah, I see. Unfortunately, I don't specialize in specific limbs. But I'd still like to give you a hand, so to speak." He chuckles. "How about a resistant hide? Or regenerative blood? I can offer a fair price!!!"

When no one responds, Chryson says a bit awkwardly, "Sorry, was it the 'hand' pun? Ahem! Well yes, sorry about that. So! As I was saying, can I offer you any broad-spectrum bio augments? My prices are fair and not overpriced as you might find in some less reputable clinics!"

Nothing Chryson is offering sounds promising, so Telwyn thinks it best to move on and try a another store.

"Thanks, but we're looking for something pretty specific. Best of luck to you."

If no one else has anything to add and follows her out, Telwyn will recommend the Cytech Clinic next.

If none of these stores pan out, maybe we should go looking for trouble in the side streets with those gangs...