DM Kludde |
.
DM Kludde |
Well, it's been pretty fun so far. The Brass Clutch clutch is a comfortable vessel, and the flight to Qabarat isn't particularly dangerous or long. The Brass Clutch is Radaszam('The Dealmaker')'s private vessel, and the group has been invited to join for a mission to Qabarat. The group has been told enough to know there is something going on with the Grand Museum of Qabarat, and that the group is supposed to help set up a museum display and attend a gala opening.
Why you'd bring a space goblin is anyone's guess.
Welcome everybody to PaizoCon! I'm only allowed to start posting true gameplay on May 29th, but I can already set the scene to allow you some banter.
Suresh |
A bizarre looking Ikeshti with half Red and half Blue scales looks up and tries to speak, only to realize his mouth is full. Spitting out his trusty companion Marwaul Boo he introduces himself as a scientist and a lab experiment all in one. Having introduced himself Boo hops back up into his mouth and resumes his nap. Finding the space goblin curiouss he will poke and prod instead of using words to inspect the curiosity.
DM Kludde |
Ehu swivels his chair to face the group. “I always love seeing Qabarat come into view. You see that glare on the walls there?” he gestures his head toward the windows. “Layers of shells. Decades of them, built up over the years and brought into the foundation of the walls.”
“These aren’t kids on a field trip,” Radaszam calls from the cockpit. “Save the tour for when the cameras can see them, eh? Knowing your history is all well and good, but we’re here to make an impression, not just look at pretty shells.”
“I’m sure they’ll have time for both,” Ehu calls back before turning to the group. “The museum’s gala is tomorrow, but we’ve arrived early to help finalize the exhibition. There will be a robo-taxi waiting for you once we land. Please, head over to the museum and meet with Zovi, the curator. Most importantly, take your time. Explore the museum, learn the history of this place and the people who live in it.”
“Most importantly,” Radaszam adds. “Don’t break anything. You’d be surprised how expensive those little rocks can be. We’re here to make a good impression, not rack up an enormous bill.”
The Brass Clutch makes its final descent into the spaceport with a soft thud. Ehu and Radaszam make their preparations to leave, pausing a moment to answer any questions.
Welcome to Season 6 of Starfinder Society, everybody!
Elian Neubeck |
"Well, I admit I don't know anything about setting up museum exhibits," other than that they should be finalized earlier than the night before the gala opening, but he doesn't say that out loud, "but I'm sure we can handle that. But a gala is just my scene. We'll be sure to make an impression."
The human looks over the sunglasses that he's wearing inside the ship for some reason and bows to the other Stafinders. "Elian Neubeck, Neutech Industries. Have you tried our new product FizzPop? Fizzpo--Fitz--well, it's something like that. It was originally supposed to be a type of starship fuel but it didn't work so they tried it as a cleaner before marketing it as a soda. Or, wait, was that the other way around? Well, it's marvelous anyway and you should buy some before it's universally banned by Pact World governments."
For a moment Elian is distracted by his comm unit, but his head whips back up. "Oh! And you can use it as a grenade, too."
Suresh |
"Ooh a museum, there is so much knowledge to be gleaned from the past, especially if it was involved in fire, do you guys think we can set some of the museum on fire? Maybe an avante Garde approach to history, watching stuff burn is so educational and it's not really breaking stuff so much as altering the composition of it"
Giggling, Suresh pulls out his hail and laser pistol and gives them a deep clean to make sure they're ready to go.
Ogilvy Matherion II |
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Ogilvy feels the history of this place resonate in him. So many stories… so many people… so much time… He closes his eyes and breathes deeply, a smile flooding his face.
“This will be an adventure for sure. It will be good to work with you all and learn about this place. It's my first time here... I can't wait to explore the museum.”
He turns to Ehu. “First Seeker, what do we know about the gala attendees? Should the displays mainly impress them, entertain them, or educate them? I always lean toward entertainment first, because you can slide in the education without them knowing.” Ogilvy’s eyes twinkle with mischievous energy.
”Well, I admit I don't know anything about setting up museum exhibits, but I'm sure we can handle that. But a gala is just my scene. We'll be sure to make an impression.”
“I can help with the exhibits. I do a lot of freelance work for trade shows, and I spent some time in product marketing before that. I've got your back... although I'm not sure about a soft drink that also works as an explosive. That's a cool idea, but stil...”
DM Kludde |
He turns to Ehu. “First Seeker, what do we know about the gala attendees? Should the displays mainly impress them, entertain them, or educate them? I always lean toward entertainment first, because you can slide in the education without them knowing.” Ogilvy’s eyes twinkle with mischievous energy.
That's the spirit Ehu replies, “The majority of the guests will likely be staff and students from the Qabarat University of Xenoarchaeology and Xenoanthropology. Half the museum staff trained there, after all, and they like to keep those connections strong. I hear the Aspis Consortium will be sending a representative to showcase their latest expeditions.
There will likely be some religious leaders in attendance as well. Talavet is a god of storytelling and legends, and some of her followers believe that museums are just another form in which she can be embodied.”
Radaszam cuts in, “Just assume the people you meet are important and try to make a good impression on them. Allies are worth their weight in credits. You never know when their help may be necessary.”
Jokes aside Ehu says to Suresh, trying to make sure he is indeed joking, We are bringing material from the Scoured Stars, primarily. We’ve discovered information and belongings from numerous ancient and long- destroyed civilizations across the many worlds of the Scoured Stars systems, and we’ve received permission to display some of it here.
Nothing related to the izalguuns, of course. Their descendants preferred we keep their history quiet to protect their current lifestyle. But there’s plenty on the mentrasi and a few ancient jinsul civilizations.
Some of the other cultures of the Scoured Stars are represented to a lesser extent, as our research on their home worlds is only in its beginning stages. There are belongings from an ancient syngnathrix waystation, a tekian industrial site, a matoh bathing pod, a nelentu farm, and a thyr religious site.”
You can ask further questions or roll Culture or Life Science to know some background information
Suresh |
Life Science: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (14) + 9 = 23
"Jokes, yes. Ha Ha Ha. Not that kind of museum I take it." Suresh sets a reminder to NOT set the museum on fire.
DM Kludde |
Suresh makes a mental note, and also recalls some information
The Scoured Stars is a trinary star system located in the Vast. Years ago, First Seeker Jadnura led an expedition into the Scoured Stars which resulted in many agents of the Starfinder Society becoming trapped in the system behind a magical, impenetrable barrier. Jadnura’s successor, First Seeker Luwazi Elsebo, worked tirelessly to lower this barrier and rescue the agents. Unfortunately, their rescue mission brought them into conflict with the jinsuls and their dangerous leader, Dhurus. The ensuing battles were hard won.
The Scoured Stars consists of three star systems: Agillae, Bastiar, and Callion, which revolve around a common barycenter. Agillae is an orange dwarf star with five planets, all of which are terrestrial planets in the star’s habitable zone. Bastiar is the largest, brightest, and most massive of the three stars.
It’s a yellow dwarf star with eight planets—five terrestrial planets, a gas giant with more than three dozen moons, and two ice giants. Callion is the smallest of the three stars. It’s a red dwarf star with two small, tidally locked planets whose orbits are synchronized so that they are always on the opposite sides of the star. The protective (some would say possessive) god Kadrical resides within the Scoured Stars.
So far, the Starfinder Society has identified eight major species that lived within the Scoured Stars. One, the mentrasi, are extinct. The others include izalguuns, jinsuls, matohs, nelentus, syngnathrix, tekians, and thyrs. Many of these peoples left the Scoured Stars and emigrated to different planets ages ago, notably to the planets of Rax and Izalraan (known to much of the universe as Icefront) and to the planets of the Saaruq-Ruaan system, forming the multiplanetary federation known as the Kreiholm Freehold.
DM Kludde |
Just outside the hangar a robo-taxi is waiting to pick up the Starfinder group
The robo-taxi emerges from the starport into the bright lights of Qabarat. The sunlight bounces off the layers of iridescent shells layered inside the city walls, casting a spotlight towards the city center.
The full extent of Qabarat’s architecture rushes past the windows. Ancient universities stand side-by-side with cutting-edge cultural centers. Rows of academic buildings give way to the Grand Museum of Qabarat, a large, ovoid sandstone building that takes up the center of the district, rising out of the ground with a low dome to its right side. Its exterior resembles the same species of seashell that covers the city walls. The robo-taxi halts and pulls to the side of the entrance, kneeling to the side to allow its passengers to disembark. Sitting outside the entrance is a less-than-patient nelentu, who practically hops in excitement.
Hi! Hi! the nelentu says, perking up my name is Minqalli, I'm also a starfinder, I just joined. I am here, because I was born in the Kreiholm Freehold, and my ancestors are from the Scoured Stars, so my personal connection with the belongings you'll be displaying will be very useful, don't you think? Minqalli adds with excitement as they almost drag the group into the museum, rushing past the entrance security checks to just barge into the galleries.
Minqalli rushes off through the galleries, clambering up the stairs into a cordoned off exhibition space marked by a sign that indicates a new display will soon be opening in this area. “You’ve gotta see this!” they call back. “Come on, come on, come on!” The nelentu scrambles into a large room filled with arrowheads, pottery shards, and other archaeological finds. The far side of the wall is taken up by a floor-to-ceiling diorama of archaeological strata, depicting the various eras on display in the hall. Minqalli climbs up the diorama, eagerly pointing out various pieces of pottery built into the display. “You see this mark here? My ancestor made this one. Oh, and that one, and this one over here!” Their showcase of their ancestors’ belongings is cut short by the stomping footsteps of an incoming vesk, hand on her radio and an angry sneer on her face.
The Vesk approaches breathless, eyes wide as she sees Minqalli hanging from the display. “Get down from there!” she barks at Minqalli, then turns her scrutinizing eyes upon the group....
Elian Neubeck |
"Oh no worries friend, no trouble here," says Elian sliding easily over to the vesk, "We're the Starfinder team that was sent to help finalize the exhibit. Here's our expert on the subject inspecting the artifacts. They they should probably use a ladder instead of climbing on the display--do you know where we can grab one?"
It's almost too bad that it's entirely true.
Diplomacy: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (20) + 7 = 27
DM Kludde |
Hmm, the Vesk reacts to Elian's explanation alright them, since you are so considerate. The normal procedure is to first check in at security and sort out the proper paperwork, but let me do that for you this time.
She taps a badge that reads 'Amyikesh', but says If there's anything you need, just ask for Amyik. I'll get you that ladder.
Sure enough, Amyik returns with a ladder briefly after Minqalli has shown a few more display cases to the group.
Portrait on the slides, btw
Not long after, a blue-tinted Lashunta woman arrives.
“Welcome to the Grand Museum of Qabarat! I hear you’ve already met with our head of security, Amyik, and received a comprehensive tour of our dig-site diorama by your little Starfinder friend. Minqalli is quite exuberant! My name is Zovi. I’m a curator here at the museum. And you are?”
Ogilvy Matherion II |
Ogilvy straightens and smiles to the curator. Guess it’s too late to throw that Charming Veneer and give myself a boost. Here goes nothing...
“I’m Ogilvy, from… uh…” His voice catches for a moment as he swallows the word ‘marketing’, then he finishes: “…from the Starfinders, Exo-Guardians faction. Dedicated to protecting and preserving the people and cultural heritages of the Pact Worlds.”
He finishes with a the appropriate bow and flourish — at least he hopes they’re the right ones. He really didn’t pay a lot of attention during Castrovellian culture courses.
Culture: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (10) + 10 = 20
“We’re here to help assemble the Starfinder items for display. It's so exciting!”
DM Kludde |
Wonderful! Let me give you a short tour, before we move to our exhibit.
Welcome, everyone, to this fascinating exhibit hall. As a curator here at the Grand Museum of Qabarat, it's my pleasure to guide you through this collection. Please keep in mind that the artifacts we're about to see hold great historical and cultural significance.
“This gallery is where we keep and display fragile materials. Things that are important to our people and history but cannot survive with too much light or jostling. As you’ll notice, our museum has no corners. As an institution that must serve a multitude of cultures, we must be mindful of these cultural beliefs. The makers of this dance regalia, for example.” She presses a button beside her, momentarily lighting up a display case holding a dress with faded colors. “They believe that the things they make have an energy, and that energy can become trapped. Not too many sharp edges in nature, you see. While these belongings are in our care, they’re free to glide around the space and flow through the curvatures of the building. And, as the tour guides are fond of saying, it keeps us well rounded.” She gestures for the group to follow her as she steps into the next gallery. Please feel free to ask questions or share your observations as we explore this remarkable exhibition. Let's proceed to the next gallery, where more wonders await us.
As the group enters, they are greeted by a multitude of displays showcasing an array of belongings ranging from everyday items to weaponry. Each object is accompanied by a small button, inviting visitors to interact with the exhibit. When pressed, these buttons project holograms depicting individuals from the respective cultures, showcasing how they used the items on display.
Welcome, everyone, to the captivating "Life Within the Gap" gallery. Here, we delve into the rich cultures that flourished during the enigmatic Gap era. Our museum's experts have meticulously pieced together their best conjectures to offer glimpses into the daily lives and practices of these remarkable civilizations.
As we explore this gallery, take a moment to engage with the exhibits. Press the buttons beside each artifact to witness holographic projections of people from those cultures, vividly demonstrating how these objects were utilized in their daily routines.
This gallery serves as a bridge connecting us to the past, shedding light on the diverse societies that navigated the mysteries of the Gap. Let us embark on this journey together, unraveling the secrets and embracing the unique stories of those who lived during this intriguing era.
Zovi's voice resonates with enthusiasm and reverence as she guides the Starfinders through the gallery.
We used to have full-scale dioramas, but with our ever-increasing knowledge of the Gap cultures, and our rapidly evolving knowledge, these holograms allows us to swiftly apply new findings.
Feel free to investigate the galleries if you want...
The temporary gallery space is filled with a variety of display cases, platforms, and pedestals, all separated into distinct sections for the exhibitors to utilize. Most displays are empty, but a few already contain belongings and are ready for the public exhibition.
This is the temporary exhibition. You'll soon have your artifacts here, and our conservation staff will assist you will all handling and and physical movement of artifacts. Thank you very much for your interest in our galleries. Zovi says, as she bids the group farewell.
There are two researchers aready in the room, carefully unpacking artifacts assisted by the conservators. There's a male damaya lashunta, and a male half-elf. Two unattended displays have already been completed and are ready for exhibition. One contains beautiful statuettes and the other impressive jewelry.
With apologies for the wall of text
Elian Neubeck |
Elian carefully looks over the completed exhibits--and the completed displays for this exhibit. That will help them design something that will fit in.
Or stand out? Either way. Whether to hew to them or defy them, they need to be aware of what the commonalities are.
Ogilvy Matherion II |
It’s so… hard to… bring it… focus…
Ogilvy stumbles, then sits down hard on a bench and closes his eyes.
One reality… now reality… this reality…focus…
“Neshasa n’gromi… neshasa n’gromat…keyama… keyama…” He mouths the words quietly.
He slowly opens his eyes again and looks around.
“Much better. Okay. All aligned again.” Wow. Okay.
For a moment, he saw the life and power and history of all the exhibits separate and shift, like cards swiveled from a deck into a fan. Then they folded into each other forming cubes repeating into and out of themselves.
“Whew. I’ll have to watch for that on my next research trip.”
He decides to start with people rather than more things. The lashunta looks like a good person to start with. I’m already in a lashunta mode, so to speak…
Ogilvy approaches the man. “I’m Ogilvy, with the Starfinders. Would you please tell me about your exhibit? It caught my curiosity.”
Diplomacy: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (3) + 11 = 14
DM Kludde |
[b]Hi to meet you, Ogilvy. My name is Wheloss, and I'm a a postdoctoral student at the Qabarat University of Xenoarchaeology and Xenoanthropology.
Whaloss’ display consists of ancient bone carvings, stone statuettes, and other artwork focused on stars and other celestial bodies. Signage indicates these belongings are from the ancient elven civilization of Oatia.
You can make a perception or sense motive check with regards to Wheloss' display case.
The half-elf is still working on his display case, and there are two finished cases in the room.
In case anyone want to talk to him, or inspect the other cases
Suresh |
Suresh will focus on any science related displays. Any that have to do with elemental forces he will focus on while ignoring almost everything else non-science related.
DM Kludde |
Suresh inspect the two completed cases. The signage on the cases reads 'Grand Museum of Qabarat, relic collection', with a little tracer card that names the person who organised the display, which turns to have been Zovi herself. The cases show belonging a variety of cultures and locations in the Vast.
It's quite clear that the goal here was to have a pair of aethestically pleasing displays to lure in visitors. Well played.
Anyone wants to talk to the half-elf?
Elian Neubeck |
Elian sidles up to the half-elf. "Hey there. Elian Neubeck, Neutech Industries--er, actually representing the Starfinder Society at the moment. They asked us to help out, but not quite clear what you're looking for--eyes, hands, opinions. What are you working on, and how can we assist?"
DM Kludde |
Well met, Elian the half-elf of somewhat advanced age responds my name is Jeletal, and I'm a disciple of Talavet. You are with the Starfinder group?
Jeletal’s display is eclectic, containing belongings from a multitude of cultures and eras. Most are well-worn household items, some showing obvious signs of replaced parts and amateur attempts at restoration.
You see, each of these objects has a story. If, say, an outside organisation without connection to the original culture were to take these without context, the story told would be meaningless. Jeletal explains with an obvious passive-aggressive stab at the Starfinder group.
Each object in this display was donated by members and clergy of my temple, and holds strong connections to the vast. These items embody the story and history of the donor, and each has a deeply emotional connection to their past. Over here, you see items associated with happy memories, Jeletal explains, connecting with the cheerful past of the objects, then continuing with a frown on the other side, items that brought their owners pain. The story of each item is as much a part of its history as its intended original use.
Diplomacy or Culture if you react
DM Kludde |
The material the Starfinders have brought to display belongs to various cultures found within the Scoured Stars system. Included in this collection are pottery, statuettes, tools, weaponry, technological devices, and magical relics. Most belong to the mentrasi and a variety of jinsul cultures, including the Myhmur theocracy and Cratune tyranny. There’s also a smaller collection of relics representing other species of the Scoured Stars, including belongings from an syngnathrix waystation, a tekian industrial site, a matoh bathing pod, a nelentu farm, and a thyr religious site.
These artifacts were largely collected by people who wanted to bring something flashy and impressive back to the Society rather than being collected purely for their academic value
In parallel to talking to the experts in the room, you can start setting up your display case. You'll need to decide on the following:
Location: Where do you want to place your display case (e.g. in a visually prominent location, a central location that sees a lot of foot traffic, a secure but less visible location, between Whaloss’ and Jeletal’s displays)
Organisation: Choose how to display the belongings. Conservation staff is on standby to assist with the physical placement and handling of the items. You can ask any of the available experts (Wheloss, Jeletal, Zovi) for advice.
Tuirk Ra |
Tuirk is a bit of a gambler, so he would suggest putting them all in the central room, up against the walls in a circular or square like motion. And the most prized possession in the direct center of the room. Attract a lot of attention at the risk of it all being stolen.
Elian Neubeck |
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"Ah, it's true enough that not every Starfinder is really a proper archeologist--why, it's not even really my own specialty, to tell the truth. Alas, the galaxy is a dangerous place, and sending in experts of another sort in first to secure a site and make sure it's safe for the noncombatants is often necessary. There's a reason our missions end up being about providing aid as often as anything else."
Elian indicates the Starfinders' collection. "I was in the system when some of these items were acquired, you know. We did good work, but very little of it was archeology. A lot of people were pretty glad we were there, nonetheless."
Starting to look over the artifacts with an advertiser's eye when an idea strikes him. "Jeletal, Bane. You know, I used to work in marketing. That's all about telling a story, too, but I'm sure I could use your expertise if you've a moment to spare. Want to make sure these displays go together, y'know?"
Diplomacy: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (15) + 7 = 22
Profession (Advertising)/Culture: 1d20 ⇒ 13 +7= 20 if Advertising will work, +6 = 19 for Culture.
DM Kludde |
Jeletal nods with approval Yes, you are right not all missions have storytelling as their primary purpose. It is recommendable that you have kept storytelling in mind while busy with other topics. I may have judged you too early. Since you ask for advice: have you considered grouping these artifacts by use and purpose? Such a grouping will help bring out the narrative.
If you go with Tuirk's methods, everybody roll a perception check (either a main check or aid another); if you go with Jeletal's suggestion, roll engineering. If you decide on something else, I'll disclose the skill check
Tuirk Ra |
Putting my rolls in spoilers so it don't affect the decision others take based upon my rolls alone.
engineering: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (14) + 6 = 20 in case the majority vote with Jeletal, but if it is an individual thing, take my perception.
Ogilvy Matherion II |
Still feeling a little woozy from the wave of historical magic that swept over him, Ogilvy tries to concentrate on the problem at hand.
Profession graphic design: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (2) + 7 = 9 to determine the best layout
“I… uh… doesn’t that… maybe they fit like… what if we… uh… ”
DM Kludde |
Tuirk and Ogilvy try to apply the design principles of chaos and graphic design, but it idisplay Suresh who seems to have the best eye for these thing, and creates an aesthetically pleasing right in the middle of the room.
When the display is finished, Ehu comes in to check on the Starfinder. Ah, I see you're finished. Can you tell me about why you have chosen this particular way of displaying items? He says, without seeming to imply any kind of judgement It's very interesting, right? Look at how this particular item catches the light... marvellous
Well, you've worked very hard, and you deserve an evening off. I have booked accommodation in Qabarat, and on Radaszam's recommendation, I have have found something that meets his standard.
The accommodation is indeed high-class luxury, and allows the group ample time to relax, indulge and explore Qabarat.
---
The next evening is gala evening. The grand opening of the exhibition draws many guests in elaborate outfits, and it's already possible to catch a glimpse of Jeletal, in elaborate priestly robe, some soldier in dress uniform, academics dressed up (and looking somewhat uncomfortable, it seems) in fine robes.
And as your GM, I'd be happy to hear about the outfits you chose for yourselves
The museum lobby is filled with guests. Catering staff weave between attendees, carrying drinks and small dishes, some local and some imported from the Vast. Zovi steps to the central podium and, with a practiced, steady voice, begins speaking.
“I would like to welcome you all to the Grand Museum of Qabarat. I am honored to have the privilege of hosting this gala and of gathering some of the brightest minds in the galaxy under one roof. Truly, this event would not have been possible without all of your help. We have gathered here to shed light on the history of the Vast. We curators always feel a personal connection to any exhibition we organize, but there are those in attendance who are sharing the legacy of their ancestors. We thank you for your expertise and your trust in our institution to facilitate your history.
“[/b]Spread throughout the galleries of our museum, you will find displays dedicated to various aspects of ancient Vast cultures and people passionate about sharing their stories. Please explore, ask questions, immerse yourself in history. Thank you, and I hope you enjoy your evening.”[/b]
----
There are seven prominent displays spread throughout this wing of the museum, each of which seems to be associated to an important guest.
Let's have a look at the guest list, shall we?
Captain Alis Sandel (Male Human): Alis is a member of the Aspis Consortium who has worked with the Starfinders in the past
First Seeker Ehu Hadif, surrounded by some interested guests.
Jeletal
Professor Muhali (Female Damaya Lashunta): The head of linguistic anthropology
Odesse Nis (female elf): Archaeologist from the Tabori cluster
Whaloss
Zovi
The starfinder are free to mingle, and encouraged to impress guests.
This part moves in several round. For each round, you can each select a guest to talk to and impress
---
Talk tracker
Suresh
Tuirk
Ogilvy
Elian
---
Tuirk Ra |
Tuirk approaches Odesse Nis So tell me about your first days as an Archaelogist sense motive: 1d20 ⇒ 15 Is this like the Pathfinder 1e/2e skill challenges where you can roll diplomacy for any npc. But other skills work like physical science for specific NPCs and you can roll sense motive to figure out which skills to us. If so I'm rolling sense to figure out which skill to use.
Ogilvy Matherion II |
Ogilvy visits Zovi’s display.
“This is a wonderful presentation, Zovi — just what I’d expect from you. Would you tell me about these items?”
Culture: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (8) + 10 = 18 Figuring that would be the place to start…
DM Kludde |
---
Tuirk
Tuirk approaches Odesse Nis. Odesse’s display contains material from over a dozen aquatic and semi-aquatic cultures, including Caravolos and Varretian, and two terrestrial cultures, including Erezitan and Ulumbian. Of particular note are several belongings carved from a delicate gray-green stone, which the placards identify as malachite.
Turn out the needed check was Sense Motive, so success!
Odesse tries to start to explain the significance of the items in the display case, but the whince she makes is something Tuirk immediately recognises from the many times he's bumped his head on something blunt: this half-elf has a bad, bad headache.
As Tuirk stands close to the display case, he also feels a pain, like a million hangovers screaming out at once.
I need a Fort save
----
Suresh
Suresh approaches professor Muhali, who speaks with a stern voice and an air of intelligence Greetings. I am professor Muhali, the head of linguistic anthropology in the Xenoarchaeology and Xenoanthropology department of the University of Qabarat. This display shows the latest evidence for our work.
Muhali’s display showcases a variety of texts, from a carved stone stele to fragile scrolls, coupled with a holographic display showcasing linguistic similarities and differences over time and space.
We're looking for linguistics knowledge, culture or perception
---
Ogilvy
Zovi stands near the cases that were set up earlier, containing statuettes and jewelry. Ogilvy immediately sees the relevance of the items, and connect them to their place in history.
Culture check - success!
Zovi remarks I specialize in the preservation and study of ancient textiles, fashion, and weaving methods. I'm currently planning a fashion show showcasing replicas of ancient Castrovellian attire amid a traveling textile exhibit
---
Talk tracker (round 1):
Suresh - Muhali - check needed
Tuirk - Odesse Nis (check Succes!)
Ogilvy - Zovi (check Succes!)
Elian
---
Elian Neubeck |
Elian wishes he had more time to prepare for the gala when he had packed lightly for starship travel!
With nothing but the clothing in his bag and one night in the city, he's forced to settle for something relatively low-key.
He sees Captain Alis he hurries over. "Captain! You are the captain, right? We've never met, but I heard he was around here. I've heard so much about your adventures--as someone who's just getting into this business I'd love to hear more about it directly from you."
This was more his element. He'd never heard of Captain Alis Sandel of the Aspis Consortium before hearing his name five minutes prior, and he did not care whatsoever about his exploits. But he might hear something interesting, and he had a feeling that giving him an opening to talk about himself would make him happier than anything he could say to him.
Bluff (or Disguise for trying for impressive costuming? Same bonus either way): 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (14) + 9 = 23
Suresh |
Not actually being a man of culture Suresh will just stare intensely and nod along as the Professor talks. Perception: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (6) + 9 = 15
DM Kludde |
Suresh, instead of talking, peers into the texts on display and finds some odd, and quite interesting similarities. Quite an astute observation! professor Muhali remarks. Yes, these languages share common roots, it seems, hinting to greater unity than initially apparent. My research on this topic has advanced quite far already, and you can look forward to my publications on the topic. Muhali seems genuinely impressed.
Alis’s display showcases weaponry from a variety of different Vast cultures.
A few of the weapons are of jinsul construction and come from the Scoured Stars. When Alis sees you spot the weapons, he laughs, and says “You Starfinders aren’t the only ones with an interest in the Scoured Stars, you know.
Alis' uniform seems to suggest a military past, so to impress him either knowledge of weaponry (Engineering) or anything combat-related (e.g. Profession) would help
DM Kludde |
While we wait for Elian's roll:
Scraper?! a rather loud and inebriated-looking halfling is having a go at Odesse Nis Where did you learn that nonsense. This is clearly a biface.
Whispering from the crowd quickly tells you that this halfling is professor Hemford, a visiting professor. Although he is a leader in his field, he's clearly lost his tact while staring into his drinking cup. Poor Odesse looks completely overwhelmed and starts arguing Well... given the origin and intended use...
Use? Pfflrrrt Hemford blows a raspberry, proper academically sound terminology should be used. It is not clear whether blowing a raspberry is part of that terminology.
The situation looks be embarrassing for both. Perhaps some astute bystanders can help diffuse the situation?
You'd need to distract the halfling (Bluff), or calm/quiet him (Diplomacy/Intimidate), and then somehow help out Odesse (Culture, Profession, or Bluff/Diplomacy)
Ogilvy Matherion II |
Ogilvy perks as the argument gets louder. Uh oh… that sounds bad.
He nods to Zovi and excuses himself. “Thank you for the tour of your beautiful display, ma’am. It sounds like one of your other exhibitors needs help. Starfinders to the rescue!”
Ogilvy quickly makes his way through the crowd and moves in next to the halfling, following his eyeline to the the item in question.
“Oooh! What an interesting case, isn’t it professor? You obviously have experience in this area to notice such detail.”
Diplomacy: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (19) + 11 = 30
Turning to the exhibitor, Ogilvy smiles. “This is a fine specimen you have in your display, ma’am. Fine specimen indeed.”
He leans in closer, then turns back to the halfling. ”You know, professor, examples dating from times of innovation and technological advancement as well as societal upheaval or even open regional conflicts can be quite the challenge to categorize, can’t they? I do believe in this case it’s possible you’re both correct — it speaks well of your respective institutions. Now, come, let’s be off to the bar for a celebratory drink.”
Culture: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (16) + 10 = 26
He attempts to steer the halfling away, briefly looking back to the exhibitor with a nod and a wink.
“Really, professor? I hadn’t heard about that. Do tell.”
DM Kludde |
“Oooh! What an interesting case, isn’t it professor? You obviously have experience in this area to notice such detail.”
Of course, I am an expert in the field. Decades of experience cannot easily be replicated, you know! The halfling pompously speaks, but does seem to calm down by the appreciation shown by Ogilvy, and the lack of strain on his neck from being able to converse at eye level.
Turning to the exhibitor, Ogilvy smiles. “This is a fine specimen you have in your display, ma’am. Fine specimen indeed.”
He leans in closer, then turns back to the halfling. ”You know, professor, examples dating from times of innovation and technological advancement as well as societal upheaval or even open regional conflicts can be quite the challenge to categorize, can’t they? I do believe in this case it’s possible you’re both correct — it speaks well of your respective institutions. Now, come, let’s be off to the bar for a celebratory drink.”
Ogilvy's words seems to diffuse the tension, and the onlooking crowd quickly... loses attention to the conflict as it doesn't seem to further escalate.
As Ogilvy leads the professor away to the bar, the professor starts bragging about his dig site in the Castrovel jungle, and the prehistoric artifacts he has recently uncovered.
“Really, professor? I hadn’t heard about that. Do tell.”
---
Talk tracker (round 1):Suresh - Muhali - Success
Tuirk - Odesse Nis - Success
Ogilvy - Zovi - Success
Elian - Alis - Success
---
(round 2):
Suresh
Tuirk
Ogilvy
Elian
---
Ogilvy Matherion II |
As the halfling begins holding court with a pair of undergraduates currently enrolled in one of his courses (a fact they mentioned to him a couple of times in hope he’ll remember later), Ogilvy disengages and meanders through the crowd, eventually stopping at Professor Muhali’s linguistic display.
“Professor Muhali, please tell me about your display. Languages are a special interest of mine.”
Ogilvy listens with full attention.
Culture: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (15) + 10 = 25
If an appropriate moment appears in the conversation, he will share his own love of language.
”One of my professors said that knowing one language gets you to town, knowing two sends you across the sea, and knowing more than that sends you to the stars. They inspired me to keep up my language studies.”
Elian Neubeck |
"Ah, weaponry. The weapons I carry you'd probably call 'sidearms,'" Elian admits, "My 'weapon of choice' is as much misdirection as an actual tool. I suppose I should pay more attention to innovations in the technology, but as an advertiser for my mother's company I was always expected to talk up my father's work before it was really ready. Pulse rifles that had a small exploding problem 'can double as grenades!' but then a lot of that never went to market because he never got it working.
"Oh, but these have really stood the test of time, haven't they? Do you think there's any lost ideas here that should be incorporated into modern innovations?"
So boring.
The skill Elian actually uses most in combat is Bluff, but that's only because it's his Trick Attack skill so that's probably a stretch. He has Piloting--which he used as a gunner in the Scoured Stars--but I think I actually talked myself into the relevance of Profession (Advertising): 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (8) + 7 = 15
DM Kludde |
There's really only three more guests worth talking to, you've been quite sucessful so far.
---
Suresh
Jeletal looks positively alarmed at the rather blunt suggestion of arson. Why? No! These items aren't fire-proof, why would you want to destroy them?
To influence, you must display knowledge of social tact or Talavet’s faith.
---
Ogilvy
Ogilvy approaches the professor and readily impresses him with his knowledge of language. And keep them up you should.
You might be interested to know the university is planning a new expedition to dig under the city of Qabarat. Needless to say, this is a very exciting opportunity to uncover further eras of this city's history.
There's no further effect from influencing the professor further (which I didn't tell you), so I'll refund you the round's action
---
Elian
Check works for me
Elian wraps the soldier around his finger, and the aspis agent is quick to admit Yes, these arms are something special indeed. I have been recently promoted to a station in the Vast, my new position should allow me to uncover many more of these.
===
---
Talk tracker (round 1):
Suresh - Muhali - Success
Tuirk - Odesse Nis - Success
Ogilvy - Zovi - Success
Elian - Alis - Success
---
(round 2):
Suresh - Jeletal (please roll a check)
Tuirk
Ogilvy
Elian
---
Muhali - Influenced
Odesse Nis - Influenced
Zovi - Influenced
Jeletal - []
Whalos - []
Ehu Hadif + crowd - []
Alis - Influenced
---
Suresh |
"By Burning the artifacts you create room for even more glorious artifacts of your faith"
Diplomacy: 1d20 + 0 ⇒ (2) + 0 = 2
DM Kludde |
Suresh tries to convince Jeletal of the wonders of arson, but Jeletal just responds You mock me. How can I tell the stories of these objects when they have been reduced to ashes. Go taunt someone elsewhere!
===
---
Talk tracker (round 1):
Suresh - Muhali - Success
Tuirk - Odesse Nis - Success
Ogilvy - Zovi - Success
Elian - Alis - Success
---
(round 2):
Suresh - Jeletal - Fail (diplomacy)
Tuirk
Ogilvy
Elian
---
Muhali - Influenced
Odesse Nis - Influenced
Zovi - Influenced
Jeletal - Not influenced, 1 fail on diplomacy
Whalos - []
Ehu Hadif + crowd - []
Alis - Influenced
---