[SFS 1-05] GM Cellion's The First Mandate (Inactive)

Game Master Cellion

RCournae's position at the table goes entirely unnoticed by the animated scholars debating the value of secondary peer review in the field of Drift subspace topology. Royo in particular gets more and more red in the face (under his fur) as a particularly obstinate colleague refuses to acknowledge that secondary peer review would introduce an UNACCEPTABLE degree of risk to the scholars involved. It's only after both sides of the argument are chastised by other guests for their noise levels that they manage to calm down.

Its only after this argument has run its course (a 20 minute affair), that Royo finally notices that Cournae has joined the group. He looks awkward and uncomfortable that a non-scholar is listening in.

As soon as Cournae sees that Royo has noticed her, she speaks up. "I don't mean to intrude, sir, but I have a query that you may well be positioned to answer. My name is Cournae, and I'm a relatively new member of the Society. I spoke with a cousin of mine last week - she's a student at the Arcanamirium, you see - and she told me some of the professors there are developing crystals with specific psycho-sensitive lattices. It is my understanding that these crystals may be used to record not just thoughts, but the entire spectrum of mental being at a particular instant. Since you have significant experience with processing the findings and reports of Starfinder field agents, I was curious as to your thoughts on the implications of such a device."

Mysticism check: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (13) + 9 = 22

Of course I had a beautiful post with a great roll that has been lost to the great crash of 2018

"Well, I'm no tech, but I know the value of good communications. The right tech used in the right way can save lives." He goes on to tell of a time that communications allowed for effective teamwork on one of his missions.

Profession (mercenary): 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (15) + 8 = 23

[b]"But all that is neither here nor there. Our own Miss Chiff here is a wizard with the gizmos and gadgets.

Computer Aid Other: 1d20 ⇒ 3

Chiff finishes inputting the suggestions and settings that Ms Naiaj mentioned. She then listens to Mr. Donovan's recounting of a mission and smiles.
He is smart, suggested the correct topic and now this. I hope I get to go on more missions so I can be as smart as he is.
Her ears perk up at her name and she smiles I am sure I am just average, thanks for the compliment
Turning to Ms. Naiaj. We should be going, thank you so much for your advice and time. I made notes on your suggestions and will be following thru on getting better equipment
What is a wizard, human slang for something good I think, will look it up later, human language is sooo interesting!

Iteration-177: Iteration-177 listens to Zye's insights into the Starfinder Society operations with a faint smile on his face. "Very, very interesting. I'm very much looking forward to the results." From the way he nods to himself, it seems he learned something particularly interesting in the midst of Zye's description. That's a success.

His attention turns to Mustachio, and its not long before the actor's story draws the android's rapt interest. He starts grinning as the story gets more and more action-packed. As the tale wraps up he claps heartily "Wonderful! Certainly a story for those chronicle records that the Society sometimes shares with the public!" And a second success!

Royo: Royo adjusts his spectacles as Cournae begins to speak, but loses his self-consciousness when the ysoki launches into an academic question. "Ah, a fine question. I've been tracking their development with quite a lot of interest myself." He takes his pipe up and starts to puff as he thinks. "A far more promising method than those foul technological 'data imprints' some of my less discriminating colleagues have been talking about." He sniffs dismissively. "Storing memories is always a tricky thing. Some of the old records tell of exclusively magical methods to do so. Pre-Gap wizards were known to hold archives of such things. But the trick with such a mental imprint is its subjective nature, you see---" Royo dives into a long explanation of the various merits and weaknesses. That's another success.

Naiaj: Donovan's discussion of the merits of communication in a team-based combat situation leaves Naiaj nodding along and occasionally offering her own pointers. "The next level is a thoughtlink of course. Junior Society agents are rarely able to muster the resources to do so, but I've noticed some of the more experienced squads leveraging both technology and magic effectively in that respect." She rubs a hand through her short hair. "Glad to see that you understand. Too many junior agents are simply loose cannons." Another success!

||| Social Round 3 Standings|||
Iteration-177 - Intrigued (2)
Naiaj - Intrigued (2)
Royo - Interested (1)
Ykris - Neutral
Zo! - Neutral

Miss Chiff still has an action to use in round 2

Miss Chiff will be observing the party and such as Donovan chats up Naiaj, probably best not to push her luck during round 2. :).

Perception: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (1) + 7 = 8

Since we don't know how many 'rounds' we'll have, I suggest we start in on the two we've left out.

Remember that the groupings change:
Cournae and Zye talk to Ykris
Donovan, Mustashio, and Chiff talk to Zo!

We spend one or two rounds with these last two, then, if there's more time, its a free for all.

Mustachio ends his story with a dramatic bow and steps away from Iteration-177; trying to leave him wanting more.

Meanwhile, he eyes Zo! from across the room.

This is it. This could make or break my career. Everything I've been working so hard on. I think he must be the sort to be impressed by a bout of good acting... but I don't want to rush it and screw everything up.

Mustachio decides to spend a while observing Zo! to determine what would most impress him.

for example, would a profession:acting check be relevant?

sense motive on Zo![/dice: 1d20 + 5 + 1d6 ⇒ (13) + 5 + (1) = 19

Since we don't know how many 'rounds' we'll have, I suggest we start in on the two we've left out.

GM mentioned in the Mechanical Details of the Gala that the social challenge will last for eight rounds, with a break after Round 4.

Royo adjusts his spectacles as Cournae begins to speak, but loses his self-consciousness when the ysoki launches into an academic question. "Ah, a fine question. I've been tracking their development with quite a lot of interest myself..."

"The subjective nature is currently the greatest challenge, I agree." Fully engaged in the discussion, Cournae pulls a stray bolt from her pocket and distractedly begins to levitate it between her fingers, not fully aware of what her hands are doing as she speaks. "Certainly, though, the focus of research in this area must be in replicating the nature of the Akashic plane? I have some small experience with the Akashic myself, but I must admit I lack a broader understanding of the mystic forces at play..." Cournae gets a tad over-excited as she delves deeper into the topic.

Mysticism check: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (11) + 9 = 20

I know the site has been going up and down like crazy the last few days, but... I still need round 3 actions from Miss Chiff and Zye. If we're still up later tonight, I'll put in an update based on the round 3 actions thus far.

Excusing himself from the Aspis android for the moment, Zye makes his way over towards Ykris. He tries not to stare too much at the insectoid creature attached to the half-elf. Or should he? Unsure of how exactly a symbiote works, the ratfolk decides to observe for now how the other gala attendees treat the exec as he himself eats hor d'ouevres nearby.

Trying to size up Ykris this round.

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (7) + 7 = 14

Chiff will wander over to Zo!'s gathering to listen in on the conversation. She will also try to get a closer look at the drone as well.

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (12) + 10 = 22

Zo!: After a momentary (round 2) distraction from some of the hors d'oeuvres, Miss Chiff joins Mustachio in eavesdropping on Zo!s conversation. The flamboyant undead elebrian proves very very easy to monitor. In fact, from the way he dominates half the room, it wouldn't be outrageous to assume this was a Zo! Productions event rather than one organized by the Starfinder Society! The elebrian alternates between brief call outs to high profile individuals among the gathered guests and pulling individuals aside to loudly question them about their backgrounds.

When you two start listening in, he's in the middle of hailing a particularly elegant looking lashunta. "Hey there dove-cheeks! You're looking positively EXTRA-STELLAR! You've got any experience in STAR-BIZ? No? That's no problem. I would LOVE to have you on the latest Zo! Productions pilot: A Selamid at Sunrise!." He beckons the starry-eyed lashunta over and walks around her while peppering her with questions about her current job as a Xenobiologist. "Yes, yes, YES! You Are Perfect! Our viewers are going to LOVE this!"

Between the two of you, you get the sense that his primary focus is on searching for new talent for his various shows. He is particularly receptive to anyone that might be good in action scenes, which you could show off with an Acrobatics or Athletics check, or a Bluff check to feint in a dramatic way. Beyond that, he's always on the lookout for up and coming actors with the icon background who could use their background's applicable Profession check to impress him.

------

Royo: The ysoki keeps up his end of the conversation with gusto, responding to Cournae's musings with "Ah, ah, yes indeed! The Akashic is always a dream for us! Some mystically connected individuals even draw knowledge and inspiration for that plane directly! What I wouldn't give to have their gifts! For the rest of us, we remain focused on what we can study more analytically..." He looks positively morose for a moment as he considers what he's missing out on. "But there IS plenty of secondary sources to analyze regarding the Akashic. More than enough to dive into! You say you have some small experience? Have you read Rites of the Eleventh Hour? There is an intriguiging passage there that I suspect references the Akashic-" He dives under the table and pulls up a stack of old fashioned books. "Ah! See, right here!" He pulls one open and starts reading verbatim from it, in the middle of the gala. That's a success!

------

Ykris: Zye watches as the half-elf host of Ykris speaks eloquently regarding recent advances to a pair of shirren in suits. As he turns his head, the half-elf's ponytail shifts to reveal the isopod that must be Ykris itself. "Of course gentlehosts, CeriCore is completely committed to its new TapTech line. I assure you, there will be no scope reductions, regardless of what you may have heard. Opening new communication lines with the youngest of shirren is a priority for us as much as it is for you." The half-elf bows respectfully.

While you don't absorb too much, you can tell that Ykris would appreciate discussion with anyone knowledgeable about biological augmentations, a Life Science skill check.

||| Social Round 4 Standings|||
Iteration-177 - Intrigued (2)
Naiaj - Intrigued (2)
Royo - Intrigued (2)
Ykris - Neutral
Zo! - Neutral

Donovan still has an action to use in round 3

Donovan makes sure that everyone else is making their way to their assigned folk before going over to join the gaggle of beings around Zo!.

At an opportune moment, he speaks "Greetings, Zo! I'm sure you don't remember me, but I took part in one of your productions with the Starfinders. The Live Exploration Extreme! It was quite an experience."

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (3) + 8 = 11 to make small talk.

I'm assuming that we'll know when we've "maxed out" the influence on a particular guest, GM? I'm gonna keep engaging with Royo until he's the happiest rat this side of the Diaspora, since he's in my wheelhouse.

"...But there IS plenty of secondary sources to analyze regarding the Akashic. More than enough to dive into! You say you have some small experience? Have you read Rites of the Eleventh Hour? There is an intriguiging passage there that I suspect references the Akashic-" He dives under the table and pulls up a stack of old fashioned books. "Ah! See, right here!" He pulls one open and starts reading verbatim from it, in the middle of the gala.

Mysticism check: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (16) + 9 = 25

Cournae interrupts Royo, completing the passage he's reading from memory (with only a few mistakes).

Cournae blushes slightly at her own over-exuberance before explaining, "I first read Rites of the Eleventh Hour when I was very young - I'm sure that it's merely an academic text to some, but to me, it was key in understanding the strange workings of my own mind - why I knew things I had never learned."

Cournae gazes appreciatively at the dusty book. "I never found a physical copy, however. It's been out of print for some time."

Mustachio gets his nerve up to approach Zo!, only to have Donovan step in the way.

This wasn't the plan! And it was his plan!

Simmering, Mustachio holds back a few seconds to see what Zo!'s reponse is. [delaying my action until that is resolved]

It was always the plan to double team them until they love us. You're just jealous that I know him.

I am absolutely jealous that this.. this.. mercenary knows Zo!

I went back and re-read your plan... sorry! I did miss that Donovan was going to talk to Zo!

@Cournae: Yep, once an NPC's status becomes "Influenced" in my little tracker, you've effectively got them on your side and maxed them out. They're well on their way to that!

Zo!: Zo! passes a holographic business card to the lashunta and then sweeps around towards Donovan. "Aha Donovan Delacroix! Live Exploration Extreme was a supernova success thanks to you and your fellow Starfinders! If only your stubborn First Seeker would let me do EPISODE 2: THE DWARFENING! " The elebrian's grinning skull shakes with mirth. "Maybe you'd like to reprise your role as an action hero on the vid screen? Separate from the Society? I'm always looking for people that really POP and DAZZLE in a zero-g firefight!"

Using your connection to the moon of Salvation's End allows you to get a free success for Zo! (Though you can only get 1 success this way). Diplomacy is otherwise not a particularly useful skill for Zo!, as he prefers action rather than a smooth talker.

||| Social Round 4 Standings|||
Iteration-177 - Intrigued (2)
Naiaj - Intrigued (2)
Royo - Intrigued (2)
Ykris - Neutral
Zo! - Interested (1)

I'd describe it more like, I was in the room and Zo! was there too.

Zye finishes off a space-pig-in-a-space-blanket as he struggles to follow Ykris’ topics. It sounds interesting, but the ratfolk’s out of his depth when it comes to tracking the nuances of he deals and tech being discussed.

Swallowing, he decides to move towards Naiaj instead. Zye flashes his Starfinder insignia implant with a smile as he nears the bleachling. Hello! I don’t think we’ve met. I’m Zye! A newer agent of course, but it’s good to get to know each other, right?

He smiles as he thinks. What’s her deal again? Oh, practical skills, that’s right. You’re a Venture Captain, right? I’m not sure if you’re the person to come to about this, but do you know who we purchase the Drake-class models from? I’ve been in them a couple of times and the left thruster keeps jamming out whenever the shields flare to the port. It allocated cooked us when that pirate ship got a cheap shot once, but I was able to re-route the auxiliary power from the iodine coil to give it an extra kick. I think the manufacturer may be using Akiton polymer blends? If so, whoever the purchasing vendor we have is should look into the new Eoxian designs: they have a quicker cool-down cycle that’ll help out when we need to dodge and weave.

Piloting: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (18) + 9 = 27

Chiff tugs at Donovan's arm. "Mr.Donovan you never mentioned being in a movie, that must of been exciting. " Looking up at Zo! "Greetings Sir Zo!, I am Chiff. I am currently a intern working under Mr. Donovan here. You mentioned a episode 2, what would it be about and if allowed is there anything a small ysoki like me could do in it? "
Donovan does acting!!! I would of never guessed. Just focus.....I know nothing about entertainment biz!.....Oh please talk about something I may know something about.....

Donovan seems a bit embarrassed by Miss Chiff's question. "I'm no action hero, but I do take some pride in the work I do. I can handle myself in a light-fight." He does some tricks with his laser rifle to try and impress Zo!.

Not sure what the roll would be. I'm going with an Intimidate to seem scary good with his gun.

Intimidates: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (6) + 8 = 14
Add Expertise: 1d6 ⇒ 2

Royo: Royo looks truly impressed as Cournae takes over the recitation. "You're quite the scholar yourself! Wonderful to see in someone so young." He adjusts his spectacles, suddenly self-conscious. "If you'd like to borrow the book, I could part with it... for a time. Just- be extremely careful with it! Books are exceedingly fragile! I've had more than one well meaning student apply irreparable damage by being a little too enthusiastic in their perusal!"
You are on a roll with Royo! With 3 total successes, you think you've single-handedly impressed him greatly. With only a little more from you or one of your team, he will probably leave this gala fully influenced!

----

Naiaj: Naiaj listens in to Zye's question initially with skepticism, but his enthusiasm and technical knowledge soften the bleachling gnome's furrowed brow. "Well now! A newbie knowing about the danged Drake port-side routing flaw. That's not something you see every day." She thumbs the end of her nose. "You're right about the issue of course. It's especially prevalent on the Mk1 and Mk3 Drakes that get issued to junior agents. But that trick with the iodine coil, I'd be careful about that one. That girl likes a little excess power shunted to its cooling system. Draw a bit too much from it and you'll floor your Drake's bridge with iodine gas." She sends a flat look at Zye, as if to say 'Don't make that mistake or you'll pay for it.'

"Luwazi's tight fisted with funds to spruce up the Drake and Pegasus lines. With how often junior agents get in fire-fights, it'd be credits well spent, and fewer agents dying out in space, or worse, the Drift." Her brow once again furrows, showing that despite her abrasive attitude, she has real concern for the Starfinder agents heading out on missions.
That's a success. Same story with Royo: you're one success away from fully influencing Naiaj.

----

Zo!: Zo! cranes his neck from side to side to take Miss Chiff in from multiple angles. While he studies her, he sends his camera drone in with a flick of his bony hand to take a few snapshots. "Mmm hmm, mmm hmm. There's some raw material here, but I'm not getting a sense of STAR POWER from you. You'll need to show me what you've got to offer! Give me some STYLE, give me some PIZZAZZ!"

He lets his camera drone drift off to watch Donovan's antics, before eventually turning to the envoy himself. "I'm not feeling it! You've gotta give me FURY, give me RAGE! The Swarm itself is coming, and they've already killed your family! It's time to get even! That's the kind of PASSION I'm looking for bud!" Close, but not quite on the check.

||| End of Social Round 4 Standings|||
Iteration-177 - Intrigued (2)
Naiaj - Invested (3)
Royo - Invested (3)
Ykris - Neutral
Zo! - Interested (1)

Still need a round 4 action from Miss Chiff and Mustachio before we go to the intermission.

Mustachio can't take watching this... this... amateur anymore! He walks over and sorta... bumps Donovan away with his hip.

"You want STYLE, friend Zo!? You want PIZZAZZ? You want EXPERIENCE? I'm your lashunta! Mustachio Marino here, professional actor AND Starfinder leading man! You may remember me from such films as the Green Sniper in the "Next of Trouble", where I shot off my own head! Now that takes some acting chops, my friend! And of course, I am playing Grax in the upcoming blockbuster, "The Guardians of Absalom"! And who could forget the Badly Burned Mentor in "Drifter's Heaven"? I am happy to make your acquaintance sir, and know that Mustachio Marino is ready and willing to take any role that Zo! Productions has for him!

Throughout the conversation, Mustachio changes his voice to match his characters that he has played, and even does a very good rendition of blowing up his own head with his rifle, falling to the ground and shaking his body convincingly.

profession actor: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (17) + 9 = 26

does being the icon theme also lower the DC by 5?

Chiff follows the drone over toward Mr. Donovan and watches his attempt at impressing Zo!, she then watches the honorable Mustachio.
Star power, style, pizzazz....style?!! why I have style, you have any idea how long it took to grrrrr... starpower, betcha shooting that drone will show some nice star....breath...must impress him with something.....guess I can try that.

Once Mr. Donovan and Mustachio finishes, she get up on the table and with a nod to Donovan, Mustachio and then Zo! she begins to show off her acrobatic ability.

acrobatics: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (15) + 7 = 22

[ooc] Chiff will also intermingle the ysoki stand from prone as a swift action ability and if able will add some sleight of hand.

sleight of hand: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (16) + 7 = 23

Even when the site is glitching, the dice roller hates me.

"Bravo! Bravo!" Donovan is Mustachio's greatest fan. "I see what you mean, Zo! I'll have to up my heartache like my planet just exploded. Let the people feel my silent rage like a supernova."

Donovan stands shocked at Miss Chiff's acrobatics antics. "That was amazing. Amazing! I had no idea..."

Chiff gives a little curtsey after finishing her display. She then smoothes out her attire and smiles.
"Thank you, my life hasn't always been all primm and proper you know.....Though I do think Honorable Mustachio is the one who is most comfortable with this, I felt truly silly.

As a heads up, I'm currently travelling until Tuesday next week and may have somewhat delayed and shorter posts until then.

Zo! claps his hands together with surprising vigor for one of the undead. "Fantastic! Absolutely fantastic! This is the kind of energy I need to have on set! Mustachio, is it? I believe I saw your role in Sewer Dragons of Absalom Station. You were Sewer Ooze C, yes? The one that stood out like a shining star with its expert wriggling!"

"So Mustachio. How would you like to be part of my next Zo! Productions project? I'm planning to revolutionize the child vid entertainment market with a BRAND NEW CONCEPT! Imagine, a group of five young lashunta men and women, granted power by a mysterious alien. Each of them, color coded, super powered! Mustachio, are uoi ready to be the Red Ranger>" Thats a success!

----

Though certainly excited to work with Mustachio, Zo! Turns his attention to Miss Chiff. Miss Chiff's sudden acrobatic display brings oohs and aahs from the other visitors, while Zo! Carefully observes her skills. After her performance he gives her a round of applause. "Brilliant! You're shining bright, Miss Chiff! This is exactly what Im looking for. Power, energy, athleticism! Are you looking to leave the Society and go into Showbiz girl?" Another success!

||| End of Social Round 4 Standings|||
Iteration-177 - Intrigued (2)
Naiaj - Invested (3)
Royo - Invested (3)
Ykris - Neutral
Zo! - Invested (3)

----

Luwazi pulls the group of you aside soon after Mustachio and Miss Chiff finish their discussion with Zo!. "Good work, all of you. Youve made excellent progress so far. I would only recommend that one of you heads to talk to Ykris. They've been spending far more time making business contacts than talking to any of our agents."

"Keep at it, agents. Before the evening is done we'll have made quite the splash."

"Mr.Zo! I would be honored, nay sir, delighted... no... ecstatic forever to your Red Ranger! It will be such a step up over Sewer Ooze C, though that boggles my mind. Let me give you my card and my agent's card... We will be in touch, sir, yes indeed we will be!"

Mustachio walks away with stars in his eyes. I can't believe it! A real role! On a real show! And I get to be a color that is not Green!

Chiff nods at Ms. Luwazi words "Yes Maam, will take this bull by the tail right now, " She gives herself a quick once over and then promptly heads over to Ykris.

After approaching Ykris she gives a little bow. "Greetings esteemed Ykris and Honored Host, I do hope you are finding this gala interesting. I am Chiff a new Starfinder Agent here to learn and impress. If you have any questions I will do my best to answer them. She smiles politely.

Contact made, check. Now let the conversation flow and try to learn something, then impress it...him....think of it as a piece of jewelry or the host as one really big piece of jewelry...stop it brain...wonder if they have internal dialogue....stop it brain...focus.

Will start with a sense motive check.
Sense Motive: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (18) + 10 = 28

Assuming you don't have any questions or comments for Luwazi, feel free to start with your Round 5 actions, as Miss Chiff did.

||| Start of Social Round 5 Standings|||
Iteration-177 - Intrigued (2)
Naiaj - Invested (3)
Royo - Invested (3)
Ykris - Neutral
Zo! - Invested (3)

His spirits lifted, Mustachio heads back to Iteration-177 and offers another ludicrous and hard to be believed story of his adventures with the Starfinder Society.

"And so there I was, in deep space, just my ship and my barely competent crew, and these smaller insect like fighters are zipping about us, picking off our shield a little bit at a time. My gunner- he can't hit the broadside of a freighter normally, but I am in the captain's chair yelling into the coms. "You either shoot something now or I am coming over there and will shoot you!" He responded really well to the threat, and blasted the insect out of the sky. You know, some claim that the captain in a starship battle mostly just sits there and mumbles to himself, but I can tell you that my skill in harassing people just gets really good results."

diplomacy: 1d20 + 8 + 1d6 ⇒ (9) + 8 + (6) = 23

Zye approach Ykris, cautiously. Hello Ykris. he says with a short bow. I could not help but overhear you talking about the 'TapTech' product of your company. Is that related to tapping into other people's heads?

Zye looks expectantly at the half-elf body before his eyes widen. Oh, sorry. That must be a rude thing to say to you. I mean someone like you. It's just, I heard you talk about it in relation to the Shirren and it's got 'tap' in the name and... he gives a weak smile. I've never met a full symbiote before. What is it like? Do you like that body, or hoping around?

Diplomacy?: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (17) + 3 = 20

Donovan joins Miss Chiff and Zye with Ykris. He tries to add to the conversation while trying to determine a good topic to discuss with him.

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (1) + 8 = 9

After pow-wowing with the First Seeker, Cournae watches as the rest of her team mobs Ykris. Suppressing a slight sigh, she returns to Royo, gently holding the book he had just lent her.

"My apologies, Royo - the First Seeker had some pressing comments on one of my current assignments. Nothing drastic, mind you, but somewhat time-sensitive. I just wanted to thank you again for lending me this book - it will truly be a joy to read it from a physical copy."

Cournae gently levitates the book in front of her, the pages turning smoothly though the air (casting token spell). "While I have your ear, however, I hope I can be selfish enough to ask another question of you. You see, I never understood this particular passage..." The pages flip and then rest. "Here, Glenderrson speaks of the implicit specificity of Akashic links, but that's in seeming contradiction to her earlier statements..."

Mysticism check: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (16) + 9 = 25

Wohoo! That was a series of some particularly sharp rolls.

Ykris: The team of three Starfinders, at Luwazi's prompting, move over and surround the Cericorp Executive. After engaging in some light conversation, Ykris says "Quite interesting to see any hear from the new hires in the Society. I had not expected you all to be so... boisterous. Cericorp's money is hard at work, it seems."

He inclines his head toward Zye. "Our TapTech line is designed to enhance communication by providing a direct mental link between two individuals that wish to be linked together. Shirren have been most receptive to it thus far." As Zye stumbles over his words, he continues with "It is difficult to describe the relationship between myself and Heiru, my host. If you wish to experience it first hand, I can briefly separate and attach to you. With your permission of course."

Zye has a free action to accept of reject Ykris' offer. Miss Chiff observed that Ykris seems receptive to Culture to share rumors, Or medicine or life science to discuss recent biomedical advances.

-----

Iteration-177: Iteration-177 laughs out loud at Mustachio's tale "Excellent! Excellent! Though I'm not so certain about your interpretation of a captain's responsibilities!" That's a success.

Royo: Royo seizes on the opportunity to lecture a little on one of his favorite topics. By the time he's done, he gives Cournae's hand a little shake. "It was wonderful talking with you. I hope most of the Society's recruits are so well learned! And if not, I hope you can teach them. Yes! That would be quite appropriate!" Royo is now Influenced! Nice hot streak there!

||| Start of Social Round 6 Standings|||
Iteration-177 - Invested (3)
Naiaj - Invested (3)
Royo - Influenced!
Ykris - Neutral
Zo! - Invested (3)

Zye's eyes widen. That would be an honor, if you don't mind. After all, part of being a Starfinder is trying to learn more about new things!

I am game for Ykris' offer. How does it work/what do I need to do?

I can most likely get Iteration-177 and Zo! up to Influenced for my last two turns, unless I get bad rolls. Who can finish off Naiaj? And then everyone else concentrate on Ykris again

Donovan has no luck with Zo! and the others have Ykris well in hand. He gets a drink and goes back over to Niaij. He offers her the drink and asks "You've found good spot from which to look out over the gala. Do you mind if I remain here for a time and direct my team? I don't want to be a bother to you."

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (2) + 8 = 10
The dice hate me.

Mustachio laughs along with Iteration-177. "I joined the Starfinder Society to simply learn how to be an action star, you know. Not that I needed too much work. And we all come from these strange backgrounds and some may call us unconventional. But the Starfinder Society can accomplish quite a bit of good work, you know. Why, just a couple months ago I was on Akiton, leading the charge to hunt down a fugitive who was using stolen technology in an get-rich-quick scheme. And doing it on the backs of the poor people there! We worked with AbadarCorp to bring him to justice and have since been doing what we can to help the people affected there!"

Mustachio goes onto to give further details about the case of the Fugitive of the Red Planet.

diplo: 1d20 + 8 + 1d6 ⇒ (10) + 8 + (6) = 24

Feeling personally fulfilled after a long and engaging discussion with Royo, Cournae joins some of her compatriots just in time to hear Ykris's offer to Zye. Intrigued, she waits for the demonstration to unfold before speaking.

I'm gonna use my 6th round on Ykris, but I will hold my action until Zye's little parasitic experience has happened, if that's possible.

Chiff nods to Cournae as she is also waiting to see what happens.
This should be interesting, wonder if tap tech uses a form of bio near field communication, if so how near? wonder if they can hear my thoughts, should I test it with a mental joke....grrr can't think of a joke.oh better get a napkin ready in case there is blood.

She discreetly ready a napkin.

Do they ever argue over food, I am sure food would change the flavor of blood or do they do the 'I don't care, your choice' back and forth. Will it be able to understand Zye's thoughts, could language be an issue, do we think in a language. What about handyness can that be effected, or maybe it can take over just a few thinks, like one eye and hand to write as the other does what the host wants...that would be creepy..hmm wonder Zye's speech will change....focus. Impress them not drown them in zillions of question......

Esteemed Ykris and Honored Heiru what do you see the future of TapTech bringing to society? Many have expressed concerns over illicit uses of such tech, not mention some of the outrageous claims of taking over the minds and galactic domination sort of thing.

Will go for a culture check, Poor Chiff, her mental questions are all over the place. And the dice know it.
culture: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (1) + 7 = 8

Apologies for the delay guys, I'm now back at home and in position to update as normal. @Zye: Nothing specific you need to do, the accepting Ykris' offer becomes your round 5 action, so you'll have an action unused on round 6.

Ykris: The half-elf nods at Zye and says "Then, stay still for a moment. There will be a momentary pain, but nothing that will threaten your health, I can promise." He closes his eyes for a second and winces. When he opens them again, you get a sense that he's looking at you with a different consciousness behind them. He reaches back with a hand and brings the parasitic isopod off his neck and around towards you.

The half-elf Heiru speaks in a quiet, hesitant voice "Please stay very still, it helps to minimize any potential injury while Ykris makes the connection." He clears a spot on the back of Zye's neck and places Ykris there. Zye feels a sharp pain as Ykris' legs burrow into his skin and a pair of tendrils burrow deeper. (This process deals 2 piercing damage) The sensation of having Ykris attached is uncanny. While you retain all your sensory inputs, your body does not answer in any way to active or instinctive commands. Instead, you feel it move about slightly of its own accord as Ykris tests it out. After a moment, you hear a voice echoing about inside your brain.

'Certainly, I have never had a chance to bond with a ysoki before. I trust it is not too unpleasant for you? I commend you on keeping your body in fine shape, not all creatures are so careful.'

As Ykris "speaks" to Zye internally, Zye's body does a neat little flip and cartwheel. After a few more moments of jumping, Ykris/Zye comes to a standstill and reaches out paws towards Heiru. The half-elf reaches in to detach Ykris. Just before being removed and reattached to the original host, Ykris mentally adds:

'Thank you for this opportunity young Zye. Your adventure against the Lawblight was quite interesting. I hope to follow your further exploits as they become public'

(That's a success right there.)

Once Ykris and Heiru are back together, Ykris listens politely to Miss Chiff's question. As she implies that CeriCorp might be anything other than completely altruistic, his eyebrows rise in mild outrage. "Any who you've heard that from are sorely misinformed. There are no chances for such a thing. TapTech is a communication tool and there is no mental influence in either direction."

(He seems irritated. Keep that up and you might turn him away from the Society, despite Zye's success.)

--------

Iteration-177: Iteration-177 listens intently to the slightly less dramatized telling of the events around Mustachio's trip to Akiton. He quietly ponders "To think the Starfinder Society was in possession of a true Philosophers Stone, as well as a Charlatan's Stone..." He shakes his head and beams a congenial smile at you "Thank you for the story Mustachio. This one was as fascinating as all tales you've told today have been. I'll have to go speak with your First Seeker about a matter, but I hope we can talk again soon." He reaches out and shakes Mustachio's hand with a firm grip. That's the last success for Iteration-177!

--------

Naiaj: Naiaj gives Donovan a sidelong glance and then says "You're welcome to the spot recruit." though she takes the drink, she sets it down on a nearby table after giving it a suspicious look. You hear her mutter "Calories. Very unhealthy" under her breath before moving on to speak with some dignitaries.
Yep, unfortunately, no go on that Diplomacy attempt.

||| Still in Social Round 6 Standings|||
Iteration-177 - Influenced!
Naiaj - Invested (3)
Royo - Influenced!
Ykris - Interested (1)
Zo! - Invested (3)

Zye and Cournae have Round 6 actions, but everyone can feel free to post their Round 7 actions as well.

Cournae joins the circle around Ykris.

"That was quite the demonstration. Thank you for being so willing to share your experience with members of the Society - broadening horizons is absolutely vital for our field agents."

Round 6 action:
Culture check: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (19) + 6 = 25

Cournae clears her throat slightly as she gets down to business. "I overheard you speaking earlier about CeriCorp's advances in telepathic augmentation. I must admit that it's quite refreshing to hear of such a promising technology. I have a cousin who lives on Akiton, and they live in constant worry of contamination from nearby biotech experimentation sites. It's such a relief to hear of more ethically sustainable products."

Mustachio walks over to Zo! again, brimming with ideas.

"Mr. sir Zo!, I've been inspired by a whole multiude of ideas ever since you mentioned that me, Mustachio Marino, should be the Red Ranger. First of all, I think the Red Ranger should of course have an alter-ego of course. I am thinking a martial artist expert and trainer with a down to earth name like... Jason. Then I can use these moves I've picked up to train the other rangers... Hee-yaw! Ka-chaw!" Mustachio does a series of acting kung-fu moves that would have no real effect against a true target, but are really flashy.

"And then, stick with me a second, this is really crazy... The Rangers should have access to these terribly powerful Mechs shaped in the form of dinosaurs and animals. And when we do this and say "ACTIVATE"..."...Mustachio performs a series of ridiculous arm movements and head nods.."... our mechs join together to form a massive robot that can immediately win the day! "

profession actor: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (19) + 9 = 28 My bonuses are high, but my rolls have been amazing this scenario. I guess Mustachio is really meant for a true acting role! If you can call being a MMPR an acting role...At least it will get me invites to comic cons for the rest of my life...

Still a bit thrown by the weird feelings associated with being controlled, and seeing that just chatting about the day to day doesn't seem to be endearing Ykris to them, Zye gives a respectful nod to the symbiote as he excuses himself. I'm sure you will. And thank you for that. It was an interesting new feeling for me too!

The ysoki then slides over towards Naiaj. Hello, good to see you again. I have to ask? Have you ever had a symbiote used on, or 'with' - I'm not sure of the terminology, you? I just did, and it felt, well a bit weird. I know I've seen some agents use them to get gills and grow extra muscles and the like. But I think you could probably get as much results out of tech, couldn't you? Like a radio boost could just as easily connect directly into the brain, though making it subtle would probably be the real trick...

He continues to go on about how technology could be just as ueful and less unsettling than biotech, hoping she's more engaged than bored by his thoughts.

Engineering?: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (7) + 9 = 16

Chiff nods to Ykris. I did not mean to offend, was just a question is all. Perhaps I should leave so as not to further offend.

She quickly makes her escape and moves over toward Royo. She will listen in on the conversation as she nibbles on some food.

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (6) + 10 = 16

Ykris: Ykris seems happy to turn the topic of conversation to Cericorp's excellent ethics rating and some of its community-focused programs. Nevertheless, after a few minutes, Ykris seems to realize that he's deep into a marketing-type presentation and interrupts himself. "Ah, my apologies, I'm sure you didn't help host us here today to simply hear about Cericorp, now did you? This event is for the Starfinder Society!" He nods at Cournae "Any interesting developments in the Society recently that you'd be willing to divulge?" That's another success.

---

Zo!: Mustachio engages the media mogul in a lively pitch that has the elebrian bring over an assistant to take notes. "Simple. Gaudy. And yet so very Flashy! Excellent! Positively STELLAR! The pitch for 'Star Rangers Ultra Paradox' might already be out, but those are great ideas! Keep them coming boy, and you'll go far!" He shoots fingers guns at you and his camera drone comes around to take a flurry of pictures. That's Zo! fully influenced.

----

Naiaj: Naiaj blinks a couple of times at Zye's scattered comments before putting a hand on the ysoki's shoulder. "Your first time bonding to one of Ykris' kind is it? It can be a little difficult to sort your own thoughts out afterward." She pauses, almost as if she's going to offer some kind of heartfelt advice, and then simply says "That said, I expect Starfinder agents to be able to handle such conditions without issue. After all, they'll be exposed to far worse dangers out in the field."

When Zye segues into asking about technological augmentations, she adds "Of course. The Society expects agents to use whatever legal and ethical means are at their disposal to be prepared for missions, technological augmentations of all kinds included." Though her words are stern, she seems to approve of the topic. And that's enough to bring her to Influenced as well!

----

Royo: Miss Chiff hangs around Royo for a while and hears him talking about a very promising Starfinder agent. Something about poaching her for a research position in the Forum. (Royo is maxed out)

||| Social Round 7 Standings|||
Iteration-177 - Influenced!
Naiaj - Influenced!
Royo - Influenced!
Ykris - Intrigued (2)
Zo! - Influenced!

All except Mustachio have their Round 7 actions. Looks like you might not even need round 8!

Miss Chiff will go from Royo over to Iteration-177 and introduce herself.
Basically want to be sure to meet each person, and try not to influence at this point if that is ok?

"Ah, my apologies, I'm sure you didn't help host us here today to simply hear about Cericorp, now did you? This event is for the Starfinder Society!" He nods at Cournae "Any interesting developments in the Society recently that you'd be willing to divulge?"

Culture check: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (8) + 6 = 14

Cournae smiles slightly and dips her head. Many interesting developments, some of which I can divulge. I was recently assigned to a small task force charged with observing and quantifying corporate espionage. A seemingly odd task for the Starfinder Society, I'm sure, but quite a legitimate undertaking, given the shear volume of weapons, starships, and ancillary supplies the Society consumes on an annual basis. You are, of course, well aware that the Society prides itself on collecting and cataloging vast archives of potentially relevant information, so when we received reasonable suspicion that we were the target of a counterintelligence mission, it was only reasonable to investigate..."

Cournae prattles on for some time, making extremely oblique references to the events of The Solar Sortie (SFS 1-07).