Yep. Although if they take actions to keep the smoke going it does get worse.
The glitch attacked by Istorvir has its display shift to an emoji of a face with a waggling tongue. It begins hunting around for the console user, and decides instead to be... generally annoying. Suddenly, all of the labels on the keyboard are erased!
It cast erase. I'm calling that a -2 penalty for computers checks on that computer.
The boss seems rather annoyed with Teka using the console, and opts to perform some 'percussive maintenance' on the Ysoki.
Female CG Ysoki Themeless Envoy 7 | SP 0/49 HP 27/44 | RP 5/6 | EAC 25, KAC 26 | Fort +3, Ref +11, Will +7 | Init: +5 | Perc: +10
Wanted to double check, did I get hit by the that 14 to hit KAC? My KAC is 15. It would certainly hit me if my AC was being lowered by anything like being unable to see them from smoke or such though.
"Well that is a bit harsher than I normally like to deal with things, but these are certainly offering me little choice. You need to leave this place you naughty little things. You can have this place when the people are all gone."
Trying her best to ignore the powerful glitch right beside her, Teka continues to work on the computer to bring the robotic arm smashing the threat away.
Robotic Arm to Attack Boss Glitch, even if it provokes. I haven't included Get 'Em bonuses if they are still active.
Android Operative 4 SP 24/24; HP 28/28 | RP 6/6 EAC 15; KAC 16 | Fort +4; Ref +9; Will +4 | Init: +7 | Perc: +9 (+2 vs traps and free check within 10 ft)
Moving around and using a bit of dark shadow as cover OP-1 emerges from an angle that hopefully the boss glitch didn't see coming as he fires his laser
Trick shot using stealth:1d20 + 15 ⇒ (19) + 15 = 34 (dc 20+target's CR)
To hit EAC (vs flatfooted if trick shot worked):1d20 + 6 ⇒ (16) + 6 = 22 F (Laser) damage if hit:1d4 + 1 ⇒ (3) + 1 = 4 Extra trick shot damage:1d8 ⇒ 6
Istorvir has a feat that does this.
You can use a computer without having a user interface or hacking kit simply by touching it. You must still succeed at a Computers check to hack it if you do not have authorized access. Additionally, you have limited telepathy that functions only with constructs with the technological subtype.
Istorvir silently and invisibly smiles as he merely rests an invisible hand on the terminal.
Concealment:1d100 ⇒ 91 Moving some attacks to other targets due to premature death of primary targets.
With a flurry and shots, stabbing, grabbing, and smashing, the boss glitch and his nearby lacky freeze up. The last thing you see on their facial displays is %&@#*$(!%^+NO CARRIER
Nearly helpless, alone, and really annoyed that someone is daring to use the consoles other than a gremlin, the last standing glitch points the terminal Istorvir is manning... and it explodes in his face.
Electric Damage:1d6 ⇒ 6
It does not appear to be usable any longer... and likely is beyond repair.
Female CG Ysoki Themeless Envoy 7 | SP 0/49 HP 27/44 | RP 5/6 | EAC 25, KAC 26 | Fort +3, Ref +11, Will +7 | Init: +5 | Perc: +10
With the sound of the explosion, Teka skitters toward it following Gunnz. "Are you alright Istorvir? Come on, lets take down this nasty miscreant before it can do more damage."
Istorvir appears next to the newly exploded terminal, his head and hands inside. "Yeah, I don't think I can repair this damage anytime soon." He then looks up toward the npcs, "So, I think we just dealt with the computer problems, think you all can lift off now?"
Female CG Ysoki Themeless Envoy 7 | SP 0/49 HP 27/44 | RP 5/6 | EAC 25, KAC 26 | Fort +3, Ref +11, Will +7 | Init: +5 | Perc: +10
Teka lowers her weapon as she rubs her aching shoulders. "I'll see if there are any other surprises in the area. Make sure they didn't leave any other surprises."
With the assistance of others Teka finishes exploring the area while the engineers prepare for a systems check.
The 2 computers currently flashing rude images are still malfunctioning, and will require a computers check to clear each of them. The one that blew up... well... they'll need to do without that one.
Istorvir clears the glitches from both machines, but notices something more sinister was left behind on the northern computer. It seems as though one of the glitches left a logic bomb behind. Thankfully, Istorvir had no issue logging into the machine... otherwise that may have been painful. Probably should mention to the techs that they had best remember the password for at least a day. Or just avoid that console.
Istorvir smiles at Gunnz, "No, dear. Sometimes all that you need to do is turn off and then on again. A technological secret. Yes Conrad, I'd imagine we can."
Female CG Ysoki Themeless Envoy 7 | SP 0/49 HP 27/44 | RP 5/6 | EAC 25, KAC 26 | Fort +3, Ref +11, Will +7 | Init: +5 | Perc: +10
Teka works to run some quick system diagnostics to make sure everything is running running properly.
"They should be able to control most of the systems from these two little consoles. If they weren't heady off I might suggest more repairs, but hopefully this is enough to get the dears off the ground."
The exhausted techs approach the computers that have been designated 'safe to use.' They look on in relieved astonishment as they can finally manipulate the arms and hangar doors! "Well well! Looks like I may be able to sleep tonight after all!"
He turns and give a loud yell. "WE'RE BACK ONLINE! GET THE SHIPS LOADED! WE'RE STARTING THE NEXT WAVE OF EVACS TONIGHT!"
He looks like he's gotten a second wind as he begins to go about his work, prepping ships for departure. "Looks like the hanger is in relatively good shape. Remarkably good shape for how much of a pain Gremlins can be. There's a bunch of equipment in a few of the sheds that we're not gonna need... in fact we probably won't even be able to fit on board. Anything left behind in here is all yours for the taking. I'll get the engine purge protocols started... will probably take about 14-16 hours before we can start getting ships off of the ground. Until then... I'm gonna hit the hay. Once we start flying I'll need to be on high alert in case anything else goes wrong... or any of those blasted Gremlins made it onto a ship. There's plenty of room in the dormitories if you want to get some rest before you move onward as well."
In the leftover equipment, you find a Rumbler Boomer Rifle, a Lattice Resonant Pistol, a Tactical Baton, and three Mk 2 Serums of Healing.
Female CG Ysoki Themeless Envoy 7 | SP 0/49 HP 27/44 | RP 5/6 | EAC 25, KAC 26 | Fort +3, Ref +11, Will +7 | Init: +5 | Perc: +10
"Have a wonderful rest. Let us know if you have any trouble at all.
Keep careful of that trapped computer though. We don't need any of you getting hurt."
Teka takes a moment to sit down a moment on one of the nearby crates as she rubs her hands.
"I hate to show my age, but I think to need to have a little rest before we head out. Hopefully those ruins won't have anything as violent hiding in them, but best take it slowly."
Although I only have 2 damage, I feel I should try to restore that given I'm so low. As for the equipment, I would like anyone else to have that first choice given Teka isn't the most accurate member of the bunch, but she would take the lattice resonant pistol since she would be able to boost it consistently I hope. Others can hold the serums, if Teka is injured enough to require healing she will likely be retreating to a safe distance rather than attempting to heal.
Human Female Operative (ace pilot)-10 (Spaceship speed +1 from sky jockey); init +10; SP 84/110; HP 84/84; Res 12/12; Reroll 0/1; Cloak 10/10; mk 1 healing serum 1 KAC29 ; EAC 28; (2d6 electrostatic field); DR 5/-; fire&cold/5; elect/10; Fort 8; Ref 13; Will 9; Perc +16; SM +16; Stealth +23 :T10=34 for trick shot)
A different energy type would be good for me, but I'm hoping we don't meet any more energy resistant enemies. Given I can't use the boost, it makes good sense for Teka to take it rather than me.
"Take it Teka." suggests Gunnz. She looks happy to let the Ysoki take a breather while the hanger is emptied.
They're giving you the opportunity to rest the night, not just a short rest. Although you can definitely take a short rest.
Kayavata eventually returns and looks pleased. "Seems like calling in the Starfinders was a good call."
She hands over a map. "Directions to the ruins, as promised. As I mentioned earlier, I led a small team to explore once... but we didn't get any further than the first chamber before we were attacked by the spiderlike defenders. We were in no position to risk injury so we departed, but I'm fairly convinced that the underground part of the ruins is still intact. I'll forward our files for review, as well. For now, feel free to get some rest. The terrain near the ruins isn't suitable for landing any shuttles, so it'll be roughly a 2 hour hike to the ruins."
Android Operative 4 SP 24/24; HP 28/28 | RP 6/6 EAC 15; KAC 16 | Fort +4; Ref +9; Will +4 | Init: +7 | Perc: +9 (+2 vs traps and free check within 10 ft)
'We will only take a short rest to gather our energy and then move off. We thank you for the offer of hospitality"
I think we are in a hurry to explore everything before we evacuate what's as far as I know a warzone, so let's take 10 for people to recover stamina..but let's not spend the night here
After hearing the mention of spiderlike defenders OP-1 inquires
"What can you tell us about these spiderlike defenders? How big were they? What type of color? did they appear metallic and drone like or more organic?"
Basically fishing for details so we can try a knowledge check to see what we'll be up against
Female CG Ysoki Themeless Envoy 7 | SP 0/49 HP 27/44 | RP 5/6 | EAC 25, KAC 26 | Fort +3, Ref +11, Will +7 | Init: +5 | Perc: +10
"As much as I would love to rest my head, I do agree with OP-1. I can't just leave a job undone. I'm grateful for your offer though."
If Gunnz would like, she could borrow Teka's azimuth laser pistol, Teka has another weapon she can use as a secondary weapon in addition to the sonic pistol.
Istorvir seems a little giddy when he hears and talks about their destination. He rambles in a semi lecture style about other historical sites he's been to and their developments.
The colonists give you congratulatory handshakes and embraces as you leave to make your trek to the ruins. As you finally arrive at the coordinates provided by Kalyavata, you see that the ruins were clearly part of what once was a much larger complex. Sand now covers much of the site, with little more than ruined walls sticking out of the dunes. It takes a few minutes, but eventually you find a broad staircase leading down into an old underground complex, with 10 ft high ceilings and no apparent active lighting.
This admission hall was clearly once a grand entrance. The walls bear faded murals of muscular soldiers with long pointed ears standing at parade rest, war machines, and spiked starships. Decorative pillars in states of disrepair, some fallen over, surround three entryways located north, south, and west. Alcoves hold statues of large, broad humanoids in elaborate uniforms, similar to those in the murals. A dozen tarnished and cracked robots lie scattered across the hall.
Female CG Ysoki Themeless Envoy 7 | SP 0/49 HP 27/44 | RP 5/6 | EAC 25, KAC 26 | Fort +3, Ref +11, Will +7 | Init: +5 | Perc: +10
Teka draws her datapad and after some commands on the console brightens the screen enough to give some minimal light.
"Well nothing is attacking us just yet. This is a more warm welcome than I expected." Teka slowly moves to inspect the murals and then slowly moves forward, careful along the way, as she inspects the fallen robots to get an idea of their age.
She smells the air in the cardinal directions before shaking her head.
"I'm not getting any good feelings about any of these passages, but we will need to explore them all soon enough. How about we follow the entrances on the right?"
Android Operative 4 SP 24/24; HP 28/28 | RP 6/6 EAC 15; KAC 16 | Fort +4; Ref +9; Will +4 | Init: +7 | Perc: +9 (+2 vs traps and free check within 10 ft)
"With out additional information one entry is the same as another. The entrances to the right seem sufficient for out purpose as long as the parameters for us entering don't change"
OP-1 glances at the various entrances to see if one stands out from the others
Perception:1d20 + 8 ⇒ (20) + 8 = 28 (+2 vs traps and a free check within 10 ft)
Male NG Human Icon Envoy 7 | SP 56/56, HP 46/46, DR: 5/-| RP 8/8 | EAC 21; KAC 22 | Fort +6; Ref +9; Will +5 | Init: +8 | Perc: +10 (DV 60'), SM: +10+d6+1
Power, Abilities, and Ammo:
Clever Improvisation: 1/1
Comm Unit 80/80
Translator 10/10
Jetpack 40/40 (2/Round or 1/Min)
Ammo (Skipshot) 18/20)
"Well we can't just stand around." Conrad keeps his pistol out, turns on a flashlight, and follows comfortably behind the scout. Still, he keeps his eyes open Perception:1d20 + 7 ⇒ (12) + 7 = 19
The party spreads out and begins to catalogue the room. OP-1 immediately notices that the primary entrance is rigged with some sort of trap. As she carefully approaches the doorway, she notices a strange set of runes, warding the doorway. (Mysticism to identify/deactivate)
The murals seem to depict some sort of a display of military might in a way that mimics old propaganda posters. (Culture to learn more about them)
Teka Teach wrote:
"Well nothing is attacking us just yet. This is a more warm welcome than I expected."
Well... she just had to open her mouth didn't she. As if to please the bards of old, the fallen robot unfurls a set of 8 stony legs and aims a weapon-like appendage at the Ysoki.
Istorvir, now having a better view of the creatures, identifies them as some sort of Terra-Cotta construct. A combination of a magical construct and a more modern robot. In many ways they behave like modern robots, having integrated manufactured weaponry and armor, but are predominantly held together by magic. Constructs such as these are almost exclusively mindless.
Human Female Operative (ace pilot)-10 (Spaceship speed +1 from sky jockey); init +10; SP 84/110; HP 84/84; Res 12/12; Reroll 0/1; Cloak 10/10; mk 1 healing serum 1 KAC29 ; EAC 28; (2d6 electrostatic field); DR 5/-; fire&cold/5; elect/10; Fort 8; Ref 13; Will 9; Perc +16; SM +16; Stealth +23 :T10=34 for trick shot)
Gunnz stares at the posters..
culture:1d20 ⇒ 7
"Oh my" sighs Gunnz as the robot forms up to attack.
Keeping her pistol out of sight, she ducks behind a column and fires off a quick shot.
trick shot, DC 20+CR:1d20 + 19 ⇒ (2) + 19 = 21 attack vs EAC:1d20 + 8 ⇒ (9) + 8 = 17vs flatfooted? even then it seems unlikley electricity damage, on the off chance:1d6 + 2 + 1d8 ⇒ (5) + 2 + (7) = 14
Oopse, added that culture roll at the end, initially the 2 was an attack, which went to a 10 which probably missed.
Android Operative 4 SP 24/24; HP 28/28 | RP 6/6 EAC 15; KAC 16 | Fort +4; Ref +9; Will +4 | Init: +7 | Perc: +9 (+2 vs traps and free check within 10 ft)
Moving around the pillar behind him OP-1 draws a static arc pistol while out of sight of one the spider like drones and as he emerges from the other side aims it at the center mass of the drone as he pulls the trigger and takes up position next to Teka.
Trick shot using stealth:1d20 + 15 ⇒ (3) + 15 = 18 (dc 20+target's CR)
To hit EAC Red(vs flatfooted if trick shot worked):1d20 + 6 ⇒ (2) + 6 = 8 Elec damage if hit:1d6 + 1 ⇒ (2) + 1 = 3 Extra trick shot damage:1d8 ⇒ 5
Gunnz quickly draws a pistol and takes a shot off at one of the spiders. She's a little clumsy on the shot and has difficulty getting a good mark on the target, but she still lands the shot. Unfortunately it's not as effective as she'd hope. (Resist's electricity, also the trick attack fails. Assuming you were going for green? Please note which one you're attacking.)
OP-1 advances and fires a shot as well, but it goes completely wild as the loud high-pitched buzz from Teka's shot catches her off-guard. The result of said buzzing sound though is a clear crack on the terra-cotta spider's carapace and some clear damage. (You are correct, they are immune to the deafened effect, along with anything else that would require a fort save unless it also affects objects.)
Round 1:
OP-1
Gunnz
Teka
Istorvir
Spiderbots (Red -11, Green -2)
Conrad
You recognize the creatures in the murals and statues as hobgoblins, though these stylized examples are clearly larger and broader than the modern hobgoblins. The statues depict legendary heroes, although their exact names have not survived the test of time. You can inform the others when there is less shooting going on.
Istorvir concentrates on his hand, which he holds as a fist in front of his face. He then seemingly throws its contents in the direction of the (red) spiderbot. Three missiles erupt from Istorvir's hand and smash into the construct.
