Constellations of Attelan

Game Master Me'mori

Sparks is grateful for a good night's sleep, knowing the fledgling group has worked well together and accomplished something important not only for the group but for the larger actors of the station.

At breakfast, he breaks the news that he has been offered and has accepted an opportunity to become a product representative for Solar Dawn Foundries.

"Not unlike my own good fortune friend, congratulations!"

"Let's set up some ways to keep in touch since our different jobs will soon be taking us in many different directions. We should continue building the friendships we have established."

While the player knows the PCs will be continuing to work together, Sparks does not know that.

Frustratingly attempting to eat both his flap jacks and his hot fudge sundae at the same time, Dirk gives an enthusiastic thumbs up.

"Let's set up some ways to keep in touch since our different jobs will soon be taking us in many different directions. We should continue building the friendships we have established."

While the player knows the PCs will be continuing to work together, Sparks does not know that.

"Sparks, I could not agree more. Good thinking."

Once breakfast is done with, Sparks suggests a trip to the Lorespire Complex to give a report on the murder of Durevor Kreel.

Sparks has cleaned himself up after the events of the previous night, wearing the suit he packed specifically interviews and other official meetings. He wears a nicely tailored suit, brown fabric embellished with embroidery along edges of a kind of knotwork patterns with blue thread interspersed for a flowing water motif with silver fish emblems set with mother of pearl inlay. His shirt is white with obsidian studs and cuff links to match. He has modest jewelry, a bolo tie, sunburst belt buckle, and a holy symbol of Saranrae pin on his lapel. A little cologne completes the process.

"Let's go!" he calls to the others once he emerges from his room to head out.

Zemfira was relieved to be bringing real evidence to light as a result of their gangland adventures. The dark underbelly of the station was turning out to be very dark indeed. She wondered with some discomfort how much worse it would get before their investigation was done.

She followed suit with Sparks, dressing nicely in her fancy duds. "Right behind you."

Having (mostly) been successful in his dual entre breakfast experience, the Three eyed Dirindi meets up with Sparks, Zemfira and Zephyr.
So, any other leads that involve us owning a second business?

"I plan to be pretty busy with my new job. I'm not really an entrepreneur," Sparks says.

Considering the time and the proximity, a leisurely walk with a notification sent ahead would see Chiskisk ready to receive you upon arrival. Using a Rebu would see the same result, just with less time spent on-foot. With the events of the night behind you, there is undoubtedly a relief that many of you may not have had since your arrival put you in the middle of a shootout between two gangs. One potential silver lining is that without this occurring, there were levels to Absalom Station that you may not have gotten a chance to see— never mind that the desire to see them likely would not have surfaced, either.

Sparks does nothing to hide the childlike awe in which he holds the area. He takes his time soaking in the ambiance and contemplating how fortunate he is to be alive when he can be at the center of the exploration of the Vast, not to mention to begin to take part in that exploration, albeit as a lowly functionary.

Dirk Gently stumbles every few steps as the group traverse the Lore Spire Complex of Absolam Station for the initial allowance of time. Absently dabbing a bit of mustard off his tie (the excited and nervous Dirindi has been eating vendor acquired eats as the group traverse the Lore Spire Complex of Absolam Station), the wide-open Three eyed Dirindi gawks (and occasionally gags as the particular eats was not properly chewed) at all the marvelous artitecture, artistry, and Air Jordans available at an unexpected inexpensive account.

Meandering and deftly maneuvering around, in-between, (even had to leap frog a pair of Halfling's walking their cat), the grinning and chewing Holistic Detective purchases a I've been to the Lore Spire Complex of Absolam Station T-shirt on their way to report to the Starfinder Society this morning.....

The automatic doors to the Lorespire Complex slide open easily at your approach, the SensorSuite pinging your visible comms and immediately forwarding the notification ahead to Chiskisk and the receptionist, as a GuideLine makes itself known. The path is much the same as you had tread before, the similar offices that you pass heading deeper into the complex itself distinguished only by the decorations of the occupants, or lack thereof. The office of Chiskisk is opened to you by an aide that joins your path and closed just after you enter. The cluttered office follows its own order, and at your arrival, the Shirren bids you sit in the various seating that has been arranged for you, along with a small tray of Nutri-wafers and water globes.

"Greetings, and good morning. Your message of information regarding my request and the hoṕ̷͎e that the motive b̴̯͗ehind Durevor b̴͔̆eing killed is a comfort. Results as swift as you have oḅ̷͐tained is a credit to the b̵͈̂adges you b̸͙̓ear and the decisiveness with which you have acted. You have not only my thanks, b̴͕́ut my gratitude."

"Thank you," Sparks offers on behalf of the group. "I suspect I speak for everyone when I say, 'What's next?'"

Entering the offices of the Starfinder Venture Captain, Dirk Gently smiles warmly at the Shirren, takes a seat, sees the small tray of Nutri-wafers and water globes, stands back up, reaches out and takes the tray, sits back down, and plucks a tasty treat.
Delicious! As our esteemed colleague has so elegantly requests. What is next? I am willing to continue to investigate this murder and multitude of mishaps, mischief, malevolent mayhem.

The Holistic Detective plucks another treat.
Really tasty.

Chiskisk looks both flattered and heartened that they are being looked to for next steps. A Shirren equivalent of a shrug with their antennae and gesture with their hands demurring the determination displayed by Dirk. "Next is all of you taking the ̴̹̈́ḃ̴͍reak that you were p̴͖͒romised. It is troub̴͎͌ling that Astral Extractions is going this far to keep the Starfinders away from the situation with the Acreon and Drift Rock. Further p̶͙̏ursuit b̶̠͛eyond this evidence comes too close to corporate influences without p̵̪̊rop̵̭͝er legal rep̷̩͐resentation. What you have found cannot be ignored, b̸̬̾ut it is outside of my department. Ab̵̝̃salom officials will take this further."

Their tone and body language says that they are not ecstatic at the outcome, but it is far better than the position they were in two days ago. "The Starfinder Society would be elated to have agents of your calib̶̗͝er involved with whatever you choose to p̷̩͐ursue. You need only ask. In the meantime, take the next few days, at the very least."

Sparks thanks Chiskisk and waits to see if anyone else wishes to talk to the official. He's ready to go exploring the station or maybe checking with his new employer to see if they have any assignments for him.

Dirk Gently stumbles his current attempt to procure a tasty treat at the Venture Captain announced dismissal of further investigation.
To be fair, I feel like this merits continued pursuit.

Understanding the drive to follow the thread to its end, Chiskisk acknowledges the Dirindi and his determination. "It does, and it will. At this p̶̼̚oint, the information will b̶̳͋e b̷̝̿rought forward according to the laws of Absalom station, with the evidence p̶̬̋rosecuted and the case judged." A shift of antennae belies their dissatisfaction. "...Eventually."

"To follow this higher is to p̵̐ͅlace unwanted illumination on yourselves. I would not rule out attemp̴͆͜ts to make your injury or deaths seem as if an accident, should you make yourselves enough of a nuisance. I do not recommend, endorse, or condone such a p̵̤̐ursuit without sufficient cause and b̴͚̉acking."

Understanding the drive to follow the thread to its end, Chiskisk acknowledges the Dirindi and his determination. "It does, and it will. At this p̶̼̚oint, the information will b̶̳͋e b̷̝̿rought forward according to the laws of Absalom station, with the evidence p̶̬̋rosecuted and the case judged." A shift of antennae belies their dissatisfaction. "...Eventually."

That admission is ground out and their professional demeanor cracks momentarily.

"To follow this higher is to p̵̐ͅlace unwanted illumination on yourselves. I would not rule out attemp̴͆͜ts to make your injury or deaths seem as if an accident, should you make yourselves enough of a nuisance. I do not recommend, endorse, or condone such a p̵̤̐ursuit without sufficient cause and b̴͚̉acking."

"In that case, we should take our leave with profound gratitude for the trust you placed in us; we will await further word at your convenience."

After the meeting, Sparks explores the shops and parks around the complex and visits the temple again before returning and checking his in-box for messages from Solar Dawn Foundries. Until something specific suggests itself, he will continue to explore the station and spend a little of his share of the credits on some improved gear. >>

Dirk Gently looks a bit forlorn, but the Three eyed Dirindi meets Zephyr's suggestion with a turned frown upside-down.

Tipping his hat to the Venture Captain, Dirk stands a takes his leave (still holding and munching on sweet treats)....

Once outside the offices, the excited Holistic Detective begins to fawn at Zephyr.
Brilliant! So we continue to investigate it ourselves and once we crack the case we present it to the Venture Captain for funds! Absolutely brilliant!

The happy Dirindi offers his company a tasty treat.

Departing from the Lorespire Tower sees at least a recommended downtime for everyone before you could be expected at any of the contacts in the Starfinders Society. At least at the moment, there is no threat that you are aware of, and the freedom to look around as you might like has any tension that you might have been feeling drain away. you have the hotel room for at least a week, to say nothing of however long Durevor has his place. In the center of the Universe, anything is possible.

Message delivered, the courier bows neatly and strides out, precise and composed.

Dirk Gently busily secures his tie, straightens his trusty hat and tests the elasticity of his suspenders. Smiling at his appearance in the mirror, the Three eyed Dirindi finishes his morning preparations before departing his temporary lodgings at the nice, if cost efficient motel procured by Zephyr.

Having received his invitation to procure his standard PR package set up: Influencer account, pre-recorded voice promos, holo-measurements, the basics of his virtual model, and a standard public "intro" set up, while not necessarily grueling, but involved and occasionally tedious, it did allow for the Holistic Detective to finally finish level 2 of Donkey Kong. Also further good fortune, he got his choice of color for the drone cam, and VI personality for his calendar!

He chose Fuchsia and Zo!

Walking out of his appointment at its conclusion, Dirk text the Level 21 crew representative back a smiley face.

A mere 12 minutes later, the Holistic Detective can be seen eating tacos standing at a taco cart, while reading the recent news of the Infosphere.....

Munching on his third taco, Dirk absently daps at his chin. To the taco cart vendor he inquires
Ever hear of Elysium Holdings? Sounds like a great investment...

I'll continue after others posts before going to the Two days later....

Dirk Gently busily secures his tie, straightens his trusty hat and tests the elasticity of his suspenders. Smiling at his appearance in the mirror, the Three eyed Dirindi finishes his morning preparations before departing his temporary lodgings at the nice, if cost efficient motel procured by Zephyr.

Having received his invitation to procure his standard PR package set up: Influencer account, pre-recorded voice promos, holo-measurements, the basics of his virtual model, and a standard public "intro" set up, while not necessarily grueling, but involved and occasionally tedious, it did allow for the Holistic Detective to finally finish level 2 of Donkey Kong. Also further good fortune, he got his choice of color for the drone cam, and VI personality for his calendar!

He chose Fuchsia and Zo!

Walking out of his appointment at its conclusion, Dirk text the Level 21 crew representative back a smiley face.

A mere 12 minutes later, the Holistic Detective can be seen eating tacos standing at a taco cart, while reading the recent news of the Infosphere.....

Munching on his third taco, Dirk absently daps at his chin. To the taco cart vendor he inquires
Ever hear of Elysium Holdings? Sounds like a great investment...

I'll continue after others posts before going to the Two days later....

Walking up behind Dirk, excited to get his mouth into a taco, the Castrovelian Castigator exclaims: "Great investment!?!? You have NO idea my friend ... they're genius! Remember how I said I did some tutoring on the side during school? Bunch of rich kids, and sometimes their parents? Yeah, well, details aren't important, BUT, there was this one time, and wow, being a "plus one" does not always suck. I went to the opening of one of EH's first properties, like 4 years ago. I was underage ... well, to drink I mean, but the place was beyond spectacular. Makes that awesome place we were booked here on the station seem like a trailer park, or "cart park" or whatever they would have called it on old Golorian."

"OMG, we should call our companies! Maybe we can do promo spots there! During the opening!!!"

Sparks joins the conversation holding the invitation from the Exoian Embassy, his face pensive.

Hearing the enthusiasm for Elysium Holdings new resort announcement, he says, "I don't know why but when I read about that, I had a bad feeling. Not sure why. What about this invitation to the Exoian Embassy? Mysterious but that just makes me curious."

I played through a 3 book adventure path that I believe is the inspiration for that announcement, so it is player meta knowledge, but definitely a dodgy investment.

15-0-10 holds the invitation in its primary tail's manipulators, head tilted at an angle in an expression of curiosity it had been trying out recently as it read the paper again. Paper! What a strange thing to see in this day and age. No doubt there was some sort of connotation to the use of paper, but what it was, its observations of various cultures weren't sufficient to even hypothesize.

One neck joint creaked slightly as it righted its head upon finishing reading the invitation. Its information was also insufficient to hypothesize as to the reason behind the invitation and why 15-0-10 had been a recipient of such an invitation.

It was, however, quite curious to find out what it was all about.

Giving its recent memories a quick review, and its small rented room a swift inspection, it sees no reason to delay further, and so trots out to make its way through Absalom Station towards the Eoxian embassy. As usual, it kept to the walls as it walked, both to avoid errant feet of those not used to looking down and to provide itself with a good vantage point for observing the ever-curious activities of the station's inhabitants.

Looking forlornly at the recently dropped partially eaten taco on the ground at his feet, Dirk absently nods at the sudden (although always welcomed) appearance of Zephyr.
Dropped my taco.

Three blue eyes of the Dirindi blinks rapidly at Sparks, as the Brenneri begins prophetic promises of purpose and possibly even production!
What day is it? What's in these tacos? What invitation?

Absently reaching into his pants pocket, the bewildered Holistic Detective pulls out a slightly crumbled envelope (with a bit of smeared marmalade on it) out, views it's authenticity and nods.
Exoian Embassy. Smells like marmalade.

Dirk quickly orders two more tacos....

The route into Parkside carries a quiet weight compared to Absalom Station’s more bustling districts. Broad, well-kept avenues wind through green spaces, their carefully cultivated trees and manicured lawns giving the neighborhood an air of wealth and restraint. The artificial daylight panels overhead bathe the area in warm radiance, yet as one nears the Eoxian Embassy, that warmth feels more like contrast than harmony. Other embassies along the avenue display vibrant banners, holographic emblems, or airy, inviting gardens, but the looming silhouette of the Eoxian compound breaks that rhythm sharply, a bastion of stark severity amid its neighbors’ more welcoming façades.

As the vehicle draws closer to the drop-off point, subtle details become apparent: intricate carvings etched into the marble, depicting funerary processions and skeletal motifs; sepulchral lanterns flanking the drive, their steady glow casting pale shadows even in full artificial daylight; and uniformed Eoxian guards standing motionless at the outer gates, their frames tall and unnervingly still. The hum of the vehicle seems muted here, as if the embassy itself absorbs sound, leaving only the faint echo of tires on polished pavement. The Parkside neighborhood continues beyond, pristine and affluent, yet in the immediate orbit of the embassy, the atmosphere is unmistakably one of solemnity, dread, and formality.

CULTURE: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (20) + 5 = 25
DIPLO(C): 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (18) + 4 = 22

As transit happens in a very large black Rebu, Zephyrr telepathica;y relays all of this information to his colleagues so that they will be completely up to speed. The Castrovelian Castigator captures culture like no one's business!

When Dirk, Sparks, and Zephyr arrive at the Eoxian embassy, they notice a small robot sitting on its haunches not far from the entrance they're headed towards. It's quadrupedal, with a vaguely animal-like head--a long, narrow muzzle with metallic 'teeth' in its mouth, a mismatched pair of triangular ears (one shorter and wider, the other taller and narrower), and similarly disparate camera 'eyes'. Its four legs are also varying in appearance. It also has two 'tails', one thicker with a handful of patches of scraggly gray false fur clinging to it, which splits into a trio of manipulator tendrils, one of which looks to end in another camera. The second 'tail' is far more slender, though it similarly splits into a pair of manipulator tendrils at the end. Its casing is patched, pitted, and in many places has obviously had segments replaced. Its flanks have a few small solar panels integrated into its casing, and the symbol of Sarenrae is painted (rather inexpertly) in flaking golden paint on each side. But perhaps most interestingly, a familiar mote of light dances between the two tendrils of its smaller tail.

It stands as it sees the approaching trio of solarions and lifts said tendrils, shaking them in what might be supposed to be a wave. It opens its mouth and a voice that sounds very like that of the young protagonist of an action holovid from last year emerges. "Oh! Three fellow solarians! I wouldn't have thought I would see something like that here! Hello fellow solarians!"

Steadily savoring the droppings from his top hastily eaten tacos, the three blue eyes of the Dirindi blinks rapidly at the stark contrast of decor, ambiance, life once their Rebu parks outside the Eox Embassy.
Anyone got any crayons?

Suddenly the Holistic Detective jumps in his seat, smacking his cranium on the ceiling of said Rebus!
Yes. Good information, Zephyr.

Frowning at the lost droppings from his tasty tacos littering the floor of the busy Rebus, Dirk exits.

At his immediate egress from the most popular Rebus, the Solarian sees a lost puppy, playfully and politely pronouncing their intimacy with Solar stuff.

Turning about in a complete circle, the now grinning Dirindi saunters toward the friendly fellow. He stops at a friendly distance of 5 feet.
Hello another sentient being! I am Dirk Gently, Holistic Detective, at your service.

An inquisitive look appears on Dirk's face, as he studies the friendly robotic not a dog.
Do you? Need service?

The small robotic creature tilts its head to one side, creaking slightly as it does so. Its voice this time is so obviously robotic it must be a deliberate choice. "I am perfectly capable of self-maintenance, no assistance is required."

Its voice swaps to 'excitable young human' as it gets to its feet. "Thanks for the offer, though!"

It swaps its voice *again* to something like a stereotypical 'grizzled detective' voice while beginning to pace in front of Dirk. "Four solarians meet by the Eoxian embassy like the last rays of light through a smog-choked sky. They say two's a coincidence and three's enemy action, so what does that make four? I'd worry the answer involved being buried, but I knew no one would bother with a coffin for me."

And now its voice swaps to another clearly synthetic voice, but a much less monotone one. "Actually I doubt it's anything so dramatic, but I do wonder--you got a mysterious invitation, too? What would the Eoxian embassy want with us?"

Intelligence: 1d20 - 1 ⇒ (16) - 1 = 15
Charisma: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (6) + 4 = 10

Sparks greets the solarian robot (?) or animaldroid(?), unsure what to expect and a bit confused by the different voices. GM: were we informed that we had an addition to our informal ranks?

Sparks had time to do a bit of research on the embassy but did not feel it gave him much more than a sense of foreboding. Still, he doubted the embassy would stage any controversial actions when dealing with the influential Starfinders, so he tucked his misgivings away and tried to remember to not judge another until giving him/her/them/it a chance to demonstrate his/her/their/its values.

I was assuming that the invitation didn't say anything about a group, hence why 15-0-10 was surprised to see other solarians--and why it's a bit of a leap of semi-logic for it to guess you also got invitations.

Dirk Gently looks absolutely ecstatic at the small robotic creature! The Holistic Detective begins taking out his note pad, pencil and plastic pouch filled with coffee.
There is most likely a conspiracy afoot. We need only connect the proverbial dots to unmask them!

Writing furiously in his note pad, Dirk's blue eyes peer intently at the small robotic creature.
And where were you while all this occurred, good sir or madam or not.

Dirk sips from his baggie (with his pinky held high)...

Throughout the exchange, the guards at the gate— set a respectable distance back from the road to observe the Absalom-standard habitation planning of allowing for neutral space before zoning of the grounds– remain unmoving. Displayed on AR modules and set into the ground, there is a wide band of what appears to be calcified stone of some sort, that outlines the perimeter of the Embassy grounds. Past the line and towards the embassy, the ground changes from "Absalom Station" to a flat, black material, bereft of detail and greenery. The path to the doors is etched into the ground, artistically detailed much like the carvings on the walls, though it would seem to be a creation of some landscape, perhaps culturally relevant.

At the presentation or mention of your invitations, the gate starts to swing open as the guards return to their previous position and the drone returns to the top of its column, a pale GuideLine fading into your awareness leading into the Embassy itself.

Zephyr smiles, none of this was out of the ordinary.
Now.
All these year ... after the Gap.



But if the stories were to be believed, back in the day, pretty much no one would have tolerated an embassy of the undead in the middle of a city. Yes there were rumours of a country on old Golarion which had been ruled by undead creatures, but now, Eox was Eox, and this was business as usual.

"Seems like it's showtime Starfinders. Shall we proceed?"

Dirk Gently looks absolutely ecstatic at the small robotic creature! The Holistic Detective begins taking out his note pad, pencil and plastic pouch filled with coffee.

There is most likely a conspiracy afoot. We need only connect the proverbial dots to unmask them!

Writing furiously in his note pad, Dirk's blue eyes peer intently at the small robotic creature.
And where were you while all this occurred, good sir or madam or not.

Dirk sips from his baggie (with his pinky held high)...

The small robot stops its pacing and says, "ERROR: communication misunderstood."

It switches voices to a somewhat feminine, slightly acerbic tone. "Unless you're thinking of a conspiracy happening in broad daylight, I don't think that's the word you're looking for now. Solarians aren't usually hired for subtle."

Its voice softens. "I just think this will be an interesting job offer or something. Maybe we can talk as we walk?"

15-0-10 starts trotting towards the entrance. It says in its more robotic tone, "I do not possess or require a gender," in partial answer to Dirk's second question.

When challenged at the entrance, it pops open a small compartment in its casing and reaches in with one manipulator tendril to withdraw its invitation and display it.

Absently dabbing at some recently spilled coffee on his tie, Dirk nods conspiratorially at the small robotic genderless animal thing. The Holistic Detective winks.
Quite right! Nothing to see here. Definitely not any investigation into any supposed conspiracy. Nope. Anyone have any splitzer?

As the group approaches the guards, the guards block their way, the robotic skull interviews them and press releases, invitations are presented and paths open; the not subtle Dirindi proceeds along the shown path.
So clean in here. Should we take off our shoes?

Prior to entering the embassy grounds:

And now its voice swaps to another clearly synthetic voice, but a much less monotone one. "Actually I doubt it's anything so dramatic, but I do wonder--you got a mysterious invitation, too? What would the Eoxian embassy want with us?"

"We only recently arrived and have spent our first days here investigating an incident which apparently concerns this derelict spaceship everyone is talking about and some rock that is supposed to be aboard it. We're also associated with the Starfinders and all attended the same academy. Would your invitation possibly be connected to the Starfinders or the academy? That's the Attelan Star Academy, by the way." He introduces himself and the others in the academy group. "What do we call you?"

After entering the embassy grounds:
Sparks consciously makes himself smile and give a curt bow of respect as he shows his invitation. Just like entering any other embassy, he tells himself. Just another Pact World. Mentally, he whistles a cheery tune to keep his mood from descending into lock step with the dark environment.

Will: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (18) + 3 = 21

His internal mental tricks work for now and he maintains a positive attitude.

The pale GuideLine paths you into the main doors and through the interior, and for those of you that have your comm settings with audible cues to yourself, the GuideLine sounds very much like a funerary chant that grows louder the closer you are to it and your destination. You are not hindered by anyone on your way in, it seems like the indicator associated with your GuideLine has permissions built in— or it could be some sort of DataTag in your invitations. For the sake of your comfort and convenience, a pair of skeletal attendants is there to escort you to a spare, but well-appointed office that feels much akin to what an ancient mausoleum probably feels like.

As the air settles from their words, the light in his eye sockets looks at each of you, gauging, waiting...

For those who had played the game as children, Zephyr certainly qualified as "stiff as a board" ... "light as a feather" not so much. He clearly showed his discomfort surrounded by nonlife.

"There can be no argument there, we are absolutely perfectly positioned. At the moment, we have the presentation of desired tasks and outcomes; should not our consideration include the remunertion we would receive for these tasks and outcomes? I think it should."

The marginally maligned model of buoyant attitude seems to be quite neutered as the group proceeds (and possibly plausibly process) through the depression that is the Embassy of Eox.
I once want to a funeral for a third cousin that everyone loved that was marginally merrier than this....just saying.

Dirk smiles at the two creepy skeletons offering refreshments with the smile one gives to a teacher that offered you fruit instead of anything else.

Inside the offices of the Ambassador, the Holistic Detective appears nothing but comfortable in his current setting. At the commencement of his speech, Dirk barely seems to be listening as his attention seems to have been taken by the Ambassador's lacking of skin. Dirk's Three Blue eyes seem to fixated on the Ambassadors eerie green light burns in empty eye sockets one....
Perhaps some sunglasses. Dark. Real thick and dark ...

Visibly moving his lips, Dirk recites
...prospecting ship Acreon...asteroid being referred to as the ‘Drift Rock,’...dispute between Astral Extractions and the Hardscrabble Collective... looking for patsies....

Dirk coughs.
Excuse. Excited to work for such an esteemed member of the representative of a major Pact World member. Plus I had three helpings of chili cheese pretzels this morning.

Taking out his note pad, pencil and Batman eraser, the Starfinder aspirant begins making a list of needs, wants, might gets and may as well...

"We only recently arrived and have spent our first days here investigating an incident which apparently concerns this derelict spaceship everyone is talking about and some rock that is supposed to be aboard it. We're also associated with the Starfinders and all attended the same academy. Would your invitation possibly be connected to the Starfinders or the academy? That's the Attelan Star Academy, by the way." He introduces himself and the others in the academy group. "What do we call you?"

In a voice that has enough inflection to sound personable while still being obviously synthetic, the robot answers, "I am designated 15-0-10. If you prefer, I have a variety of options I have been considering a variety of 'nicknames' for more familiar usage I could share with you."

Its voice swaps to one that sounds vaguely like an excited female lashunta. "I actually just joined the Starfinders! There was a bit of excitement during my initiation running across some illegal activity that the perpetrators tried to hide violently, but it turned out all right in the end."

Their voice comes as the whisper of air through a long-dead form, reinforced by something that feels like a softer echo. “Thank you for agreeing to meet with me. I’m certain you’re aware of the recent interest in the prospecting ship Acreon and the asteroid being referred to as the ‘Drift Rock,’ and I believe you’re also acquainted with the dispute between Astral Extractions and the Hardscrabble Collective over both the ship and the asteroid. Both parties are currently awaiting legal arbitration, but the wheels of justice often turn quite slowly. As a result, I have offered my services as a mediator in hopes of finding a solution that is equitable to both factions.

“The first step in this, of course, is learning the specifics of the opposing claims. Reports of your recent endeavors in dealing with some of Absalom Station’s most notorious gangs have led me to believe that you might be useful in this undertaking as well. You’re new to the station, you seem to possess a wide range of skills and abilities, and you certainly appear capable. In short, you’re perfectly positioned as a neutral third party that could cut through all of the red tape surrounding this issue and get to the heart of the matter."

"I would like you to go to the Acreon, find out precisely what happened to its crew, and ascertain the value of its asteroid cargo, as well as determine whether this Drift Rock is truly as ‘mysterious’ as the media claims.”

15-0-10 hops up onto a seat and sits on its haunches, its head just barely reaching over the desk. It tilts its head to one side with a slight creak as it listens to the offer. It looks back and forth at the other solarians, then back at Ambassador Nor.

"I would be amenable to to this," it says in its most robotic voice, "Though I would also be curious as to the availability of remuneration."

"Availability of? If they're asking us to do this for fun, our answer should be 'no thank you'"

Sparks learned in Ambassador 101 that one should never let negative personal reactions show when in a culture with values one does not appreciate. One technique the class offered was to suggest imagining saying what one really felt and then letting that go unsaid, just to feel as if the reaction was given.

Here he inwardly imagined himself saying to Ambassador Nor, "I LOVE what you've done with the place! It's so ... what's the word? ... ghastly!".

What he really says is "Thank you for asking. It is an honor to be asked to assist in such a weighty matter. I can't imagine such a request would not come with suitable payment for taking risks, including compensation should any of us be seriously injured in the task. That can be worked out in due time. I would like to know, however, whether the other parties have agreed to allow someone to explore the ship they both have a claim to."

As the majority of you speak on the shared topic and interest of remuneration, the message is received and he gives a nod of acknowledgement. From a formal but casual position of leaning slightly on the desk— which is an affectation that is more performative than practical– their other hand gestures to Sparks. Whether intended or not, the intimations of the Dirindi are dismissed.

Pausing for a moment, they continue, "Compensation was also not neglected in your consideration. Six hundred credits each was gauged to be an accurate value for what should be the journey of a handful of hours, if no more than half a day, depending on the length of the verification process. I cannot imagine the task taking longer."

"I am favorably inclined towards this endevour now, although I do hope that the Embassy will take care of our transportation needs in this matter; I am also going to assume that any and all findings during this mission can be claimed by us as a group: there is no cargo or property which falls outside the law of salvage, correct? We thank you for your care and thoughtfulness allowing us to help with this."

The ambassador turns his head slightly to address Zephyr regarding his question, the motion slightly unnatural in the manner of turning due to the lack of flesh on the skeleton on his body.

"Technically, yes, Mr. Starr— the principle of salvage applies broadly. But let us be precise. You are not engaged under a salvage charter; you are here under a sponsored inquiry. The Acreon, its systems and records, and the Drift Rock itself are the defined subjects of arbitration between Astral Extractions and the Hardscrabble Collective. These are what you are tasked to examine, nothing more. Should you encounter incidental cargo or curiosities beyond that scope, their disposition is immaterial to this process— and any attempt to treat them otherwise would reflect poorly on your impartiality. I trust I need not remind you that impartiality is the only reason either side agreed to this arrangement at all."

Sparks nods with satisfaction. "I agree that diplomacy and negotiation are always preferable to force. You may or may not know that we've encountered violence in furtherance of one of the litigants interests. We will want to enter equipped for all possible situations, including violence and using whatever means necessary to gain access to locked compartments and encoded data. We should probably have a document defining in detail the expectations just so we know what is expected. Six hundred credits sounds fair to me. And I am excited at the chance to have the first view of this controversial space ship and this mysterious drift rock."

Open for Discussion.

How does 13 points to start sound? Not too far beyond the norm, but just that edge of something more?

Hello fellow Potential Starfinder Agents!

I am excited to take this baby out for a drive!

Dirk Gently is already built in my head. I just need to build his Profile.

Here is an Outline, so we can compare notes.

13 Point Buy plus +1 Theme plus Race -2 Wis, +2 Dex/ Cha

Str 10 Dex 18 (+2 race, +6) Con 10 Int 12 (+2) Wis 8 Cha 18 (+2 race, +1 Theme, +5)

Skills (6+int) 7
Acrobatics (Dex)+8(1), Athletics (Str), Diplomacy (Cha)+8(1), Intimidate (Cha)+8(1), Mysticism (Wis), Perception (Wis)+3(1), Physical Science (Int), Profession (Cha, Int, or Wis), Sense Motive (Wis), Stealth (Dex)+8(1).

Skill Adept
Computers (Int)+7(1), Engineering (Int)+7(1)

Feat
Skill Synergy (Computers/ Engineering)

Plus those already stated in Recruitment for Alternate Class Features and Archetype.

Not the dps, but more a Poor man's Operative.

He will be relying on Flanking and Feinting (@3rd) to make up for lower BaB.

I imagine that any Dex Builds will overlap a bit... absolutely no worries here. As long as each of us does our jobs, we will be fine.

Still really hoping for a Tank....

Should be fun!

I like 13, 30% doesn't suck.

By the numbers though, the Standard Fantasy & High Fantasy point buys differ by 67% (15 vs 25). That said, the upper value purchase ratios aren't 1:1 in PF either.

For me, I would designate High Space Opera as 15 points. 1:1 buying power, modified stat may be up to 20, nothing else higher than 18, NO buy backs (as in, no stat may be lower than 10 to get more points)

In which case Dorien could have the 20 point Cha he deserves ...

Perhaps we do Gestalt with only 3(?) of us?

I'm not a fan of Gestalt. I do have an option if we're one short, but not two.

I'm not a fan of Gestalt. I do have an option if we're one short, but not two.

Well I hope we can get "the alias who I know best as Pyros"

Now that I am "out" about my telekinetic concept, I'll go all in that I revile "gestalt" : yet another ridiculous term like dipping and feat-tax to try to make something sound cool which isn't.

Multiclassing for 1/2 the XP ... yeah, that.
No thank you.

I have actually never played Gestalt. It was just my desperate attempt at making this game a Green Light (not to be confused with Red Light, which probably will come up at some point in this AP).

I agree that those Extras can be a bit much.

And, I could see where you were going and I also have a bit of a Theme...

I am going to start putting his Crunch in a Profile! We have 4!

Weird! Took longer than I thought...lol.

I had a difficult time finding a format that I liked...

Not a lot (zero) Avatars available for a Dirindi.

Ok, Ouachitonian/Pyros/etc checking in. Should be more or less ready. Didn't realize this thread was active yet. I'll cross post a question I asked in recruitment, if y'all have thoughts:

What do you guys think about the Star Knight archetype? There's some decent stuff in there, but man is that a lot of Stellar Revelations to give up. Seems like it might be better to have him notionally look well upon the Hellknights and all, but not walk that path himself. But I've got until Level 2 to decide, I guess.

Likewise Extra Manifestation. Seems like it'd be cool to wield stellar sword and shield, for example, but is it worth giving up a zenith revelation? I've got until 9th to decide on that one, though. No rush.

Oops!

I accidentally answered in Recruitment....

While all of you were preparing for the trip, there was a communication through the channels of the school from one "Taeron", providing an InfoDot to a personality/interest/hobby profiler V.I. that will walk you through the paces. This smacks of Public Relations, and is something that is alluding to this being more than a simple trip to Absalom Station— something is trying to be built here.

What would the resulting profile look like for your characters??

So, for the newcomer— and those new(-ish), my default resources are:

Hephaistos, and Archives of Nethys

Painlord's guide to Play-by-Post is wonderful, and I have it favorited.

Othewise, with this start, this is going to be the fourth time I'll be running Dead Suns— hence the twist and flavor–, and have seen some gaps where things could be filled, others could be fleshed out, and where there's room for some flexibility. So feel free to inject color and flavor where you feel appropriate, take some of the tools and fill things in if you see some atmosphere or something that could help add life to this shared space we're working with.

Otherwise, how's everyone looking on their characters? I've got an opening post up in Gameplay to set the motion and a bit of extra padding, but I'm hoping we can get a good flow of playing off of each other to make this fun.

Dirk Gently, Holistic Detective (actually a spy) is ready and roaring to get started on his initial assignment!

Welcome to the crew, bluedove! Your concept fits in perfectly.

Thank you! Everything is connected, after all. ^_^

Ok, so first thing I've been looking at is races. I think I'm leaning toward a Ganzi with the Armor Avatar alternate trait, if that is allowable. Though an Astrazoan seems like it would have a lot of creative RP options to play with.

I noticed that Bodyguard works differently in Starfinder, no using AoO's to Aid Another. Though it still chains with In Harm's Way. But if we're unlikely to fight in formation, these aren't of much use.

Do the Themes take the place of traits? And was someone already taking the Solar Armor manifestation? I'm having trouble telling if Armor or Shield is the greater bonus, seems situational. Also I don't know which is easier to bolster with gear. Or how much we get to spend initially.

Input is really very welcome!

Solar Shield is the one Manifestation not taken, and that does work well mechanically with the Ganzi Armor Avatar Alternate Racial Trait. I do like the Ganzi, as that is a bit of color that was not present before. Astrozoan is a lot, but in my experience, I don't know how much RP can be guaranteed. This is a marathon in terms of a game, and while some will post quickly, by nature, this will not be fast, but I will be aiming for it to be fun.

Themes are similar to the PF version of traits, serving to make a slightly more cohesive concept than the piecemeal nature of PF traits, mostly due to the scattered sources. Whether or not it would be relevant immediately, I can't say, as I was looking for the concepts that would be the characters. It could play out wildly differently, which is why I'm not really expecting everyone to be cohesive at level one— everyone is just coming together under the auspices of tradition and promotion, after all.

Initially, everyone has 1000 credits to spend, though there will be a couple of extras that will get added on in the course of the opening. Of note, the Scaling Equipment Rules and Specialized Uses for Resolve Points give some additional flexibility that gives more options, but neither are mandatory.

One thought: Are Critical Failures a desirable thing?

You know I think that is an excellent question, and I want to spend part of the weekend thinking about it. From a storytelling perspective: what critical failures can we pinpoint in space opera storytelling? I feel like I remember some from Star Wars, maybe the debate would be regular vs crit. But I will think on it for sure.

Ganzi Shield maiden it is! Was the point buy a 13? I cant see how to get the Hephaistos sheet to figure that in.

How bad do Crit Fails tend to be? Like the weapon jams and has to be serviced before it's used again, or it blows up in your hand, destroying it and doing damage to the wielder?

Edit: I think I've done all I can at this point. Selected Armor Avatar and Bolstered Anatomy. Also the Electrical Attunement. Feat is Shield Wall and put my limited skills into Bluff, Piloting, and Perception. Bought Freebooter Armor I and now I'm broke. XD

Character Sheet

@bluedove Con and Cha. Nice! Toughness! Race is sweet. If Tanking is your role, then perhaps Heavy Armor Proficiency or perhaps even Power Armor later?

Only ask because of lower Dex. The only problem with Heavy Armor is the penalty(s). It is a tough choice. Your KAC and EAC seem good. Anything at/over 14 is good at 1st...lol.

Unless you do plan to take Dual Manifestations at 9th for Solarian Armor? Not gonna lie, the visual is sweet.

There are Solarian Crystals that you add to your Solarian Weapon (Shield) that are nice.

Solarian Crystals

The 13 point buy turns into 14 with your Theme, so nice!

Looks good!

EDIT!

CRIT Fails? Hmmm....I do love PF2e....for rp purposes I definitely like it.

As a player who may not like it at the time ..lol.

@bluedove Con and Cha. Nice! Toughness! Race is sweet. If Tanking is your role, then perhaps Heavy Armor Proficiency or perhaps even Power Armor later?

Only ask because of lower Dex. The only problem with Heavy Armor is the penalty(s). It is a tough choice. Your KAC and EAC seem good. Anything at/over 14 is good at 1st...lol.

There are Solarian Crystals that you add to your Solarian Weapon (Shield) that are nice.

Solarian Crystals

It's just a 10 pt buy at this point as I can't figure out how to get the sheet to give me 3 more points. I was aiming for either 16 in Dex, or 12 in Str and 14 in Dex. Probably the latter if I plan for heavier armor later.

She's probably shield bashing as an attack at first. Unless it might be better to get Coveralls for armor and spend for a ranged weapon? Recommendations? The gear is where I'm virtually clueless.
I will look at the crystals and try to find an affordable one in the meantime.

You can always just Do what she does! once we get started...lol.

If you do plan to go Solar Armor at 9th then I would say Dex 16 to max Light Armor.

Although at 5th, 10th, 15th we get 4 Ability boosts so your Dex 14 can be Dex 18 at 10th. Something to keep in mind.

In sharing the character sheet, you can generate a read-only link that anyone that clicks on it can view the current sheet. The .pdf output is new to me.

Regarding setting your Ability scores appropriately in Hephaistos: in the Ability tab, just set the method to "Rolling Ability Scores". You should be able to set the values appropriately then.

For weaponry, you are correct in that your Solar Shield remains viable as a melee weapon, so if you wanted something cheap and ranged, a Tactical Skipshot Pistol works. Otherwise, a Backpack, Personal Comm Unit, a couple changes of clothes, hygiene kit, and other miscellany will be all that you need to start, and you would not feel the loss of it. Everyone will get the chance to grow into the role that they want to take, and some shifting may occur. I'm not going to disallow alterations if they just aren't working out as you would like.

For everyone: What appearance does your Solarian Manifestation take?

Ganzi Shield maiden it is! Was the point buy a 13? I cant see how to get the Hephaistos sheet to figure that in.

How bad do Crit Fails tend to be? Like the weapon jams and has to be serviced before it's used again, or it blows up in your hand, destroying it and doing damage to the wielder?

Edit: I think I've done all I can at this point. Selected Armor Avatar and Bolstered Anatomy. Also the Electrical Attunement. Feat is Shield Wall and put my limited skills into Bluff, Piloting, and Perception. Bought Freebooter Armor I and now I'm broke. XD

Character Sheet

blue -- my suggestion would be to switch the "Method" under abilities to Rolling Ability Scores, and then simply fill in what you have selected properly. No worries, someone will call you out if you're off ;)

Dirk Gently Solar Manifestation--Lunar Weapon--appears as yellow/white lightning bolts!

I picture him as looking like The Flash, except in his own unique attire...

When he activates his Lunar Weapon--Moon-colored--lightning bolts spring into his hand.

When he is in Resistance or Energy mode lightning jumps off his entire body like The Flash.

Not original but I really like the image...lol.

Pertinax's manifestation is a blade made of fire that seems to come directly out of his hand, Pretty much like the iconic's does, though in Pertinax's case it shifts colors as he becomes more attuned, from red to yellow to white.

...How bad do Crit Fails tend to be? Like the weapon jams and has to be serviced before it's used again, or it blows up in your hand, destroying it and doing damage to the wielder?

It's the inverse of a Critical Hit. The gun might damage you and need an action to reload, or it gains a condition that can be repaired, but until it does, it impairs its use. They're not terrible, but they will disrupt a plan significantly. Cosmic Crit's Critical Fail Deck is a relatively reasonable example of what you might expect.

Sparks, Dirk, and Zephyr(who is taking the weekend) have yet to make their entry into the Gameplay channel.

bluedove wrote:

...How bad do Crit Fails tend to be? Like the weapon jams and has to be serviced before it's used again, or it blows up in your hand, destroying it and doing damage to the wielder?

It's the inverse of a Critical Hit. The gun might damage you and need an action to reload, or it gains a condition that can be repaired, but until it does, it impairs its use. They're not terrible, but they will disrupt a plan significantly. Cosmic Crit's Critical Fail Deck is a relatively reasonable example of what you might expect.

Sparks, Dirk, and Zephyr(who is taking the weekend) have yet to make their entry into the Gameplay channel.

Haven't annouced that too many places, wow ;)

Was able to take some time to zero in on Zeph last night also.
He will actually be an Elf, but a concept I came up with a while back
3/4 Elf, not Half
I will post a family tree at some point soon, but he retains his longing for Castrovel as he is an Asanan Elf. Living with his Paternal Grandfather's family has been a blessing, but it has been a hard one.

Collateral Damage

Whoops! Your aim is way off. If there’s a creature within 15 feet of your target, make a second attack against the nearest creature and hope it’s an enemy.

Self-Immolation
You don’t know the spell disintegrate. Or do you? Either way, you just cast some variety on yourself. Receive 1d20 per spell level in damage.

Yikes, this is not terrible? Eeep! Gonna vote no for my part. >.<

I think I got my build and gear sorted. The Solarion Crystal will have to be a future purchase. I still couldn't find how to share a link to the sheet, so it's still a pdf.

Zemfira Character Sheet

I have written a physical description, though it didn't show up on the sheet. Her parentage will be (mostly) human, with her Ganzi heritage coming from her mother and intensified by having been conceived/carried during Drift travel.

Her Solar Shield will appear to be made from glowing blue energy built from hexes, like this but be shaped and with a hint of pattern like the Hylian Shield ^_^

Crit Fail Deck wrote:

Collateral Damage

Whoops! Your aim is way off. If there’s a creature within 15 feet of your target, make a second attack against the nearest creature and hope it’s an enemy.

Self-Immolation
You don’t know the spell disintegrate. Or do you? Either way, you just cast some variety on yourself. Receive 1d20 per spell level in damage.

Yikes, this is not terrible? Eeep! Gonna vote no for my part. >.<

I think I got my build and gear sorted. The Solarion Crystal will have to be a future purchase. I still couldn't find how to share a link to the sheet, so it's still a pdf.

Zemfira Character Sheet

I have written a physical description, though it didn't show up on the sheet. Her parentage will be (mostly) human, with her Ganzi heritage coming from her mother and intensified by having been conceived/carried during Drift travel.

** spoiler omitted **

Her Solar Shield will appear to be made from glowing blue energy built from hexes, like this but be shaped and with a hint of pattern like the Hylian Shield ^_^

blue - if you go across the nav bar to where is say SHARE, click that

https://hephaistos.azurewebsites.net/character/1439213657

Ok, I see it finally. But apparently my sheet errored out my purchases and I have to make them again so I will fix all of that tomorrow.

Hopefully I'm understanding our set-up correctly, we've just finished school and are about to travel to Absalom Station to begin professional work? Did we all attend the same Academy? Is it likely that we know each other?

Pretty much. Everyone has completed either schooling or training at the academy or one closely associated with it. All of you are set to travel on the same ship that has been chartered expressly for this trip. If there is skills overlap, I'd have no doubt that you would have encountered each other in that capacity.

Also, to offer a little bit more customization, I'm willing to let everyone flex some of your starting proficiencies into feats. For example, Solarians get basic and advanced melee weapons. If you like, you could trade Advanced Melee Weapons for a feat and use that as normal, with prerequisites still required.

Sold! Advanced Weapons for

Breach and Clear

Lol!

Sold! Advanced Weapons for

Breach and Clear

Lol!

SOLD!

ADV WEAP for something else that makes Zeph more telekinetic!

Yeah, my Solar Weapon functions as an advanced melee weapon, but the same text block says I'm automatically proficient with it, and why use any other melee weapon?. So, what to choose, what to choose. Longarm proficiency, I think. Might need something bigger than a pistol.

Sorry to be late to the party. I was traveling over the weekend. Will have a character profile completed and post here soon.

Actually, I forgot I worked out the profile already. I still have to outfit him, but I think all his stats are right.

Apologies, Sparks, but been planning that since the start...lol.

Is it like knowledge skills in Pathfinder, where you can only access up to DC 10 untrained? Or is it completely unusable untrained?

Correct. It is generally unusable. Any task beyond the scope of a casual end-user would require a check, other than Recall Knowledge.

Everyone will be meeting the pilot and Taeron tomorrow.

This time on the ship is intended to establish some familiarity with your characters, give yourselves the opportunity to stretch your legs, and given that the HAC can be used for a multitude of purposes, serve as a media and instruction hub for the duration of the trip. Once everyone is satisfied, just let me know and we can arrive at the start of the adventure.

I enjoy characterization but I've learned not everyone shares that inclination and/or has the time to spare for it, so I won't go much further with Zemfira's "tour" as it seems like we'll be leaving the Excelsior and her relevance behind soon. Just leaning into her theme as it's one of the most clearly defined aspects of her character.

Speaking of that, have I selected poorly? I just assumed that in a Starfinder adventure, piloting would be a fairly necessary skill set to cover, but if we spend most of our time on a space station or taking commercial transport, I may have wasted one of my very limited skill points. XD

Also, should I add a surname? I have it in mind that she comes from a reasonably wealthy family of Kalistocratic values, likely merchants and/or artisans, but my lack of familiarity with the setting makes it harder to nail that down. Gem cutters/dealers, maybe? Is there a likely corporation associated with such?

Your interaction does work to help define your character, and I like to offer the opportunity, since I find that it helps a fair amount and often allows some development that might not otherwise have the chance to occur.

You have not selected poorly, in fact a Pilot is always something that comes in handy, especially with some of the non-standard uses of having that level of skill in something.

A surname can be done at your choice, and there can be a business or businesses, depending on how her family developed.

Piloting in any SF game is probably a great choice...lol. I just didn't have enough...yet!

I was going to play Dirk a bit conservative. How am I doing....

Piloting in any SF game is probably a great choice...lol. I just didn't have enough...yet!

I was going to play Dirk a bit conservative. How am I doing....

Almost there ;)

I enjoy characterization but I've learned not everyone shares that inclination and/or has the time to spare for it, so I won't go much further with Zemfira's "tour" as it seems like we'll be leaving the Excelsior and her relevance behind soon. Just leaning into her theme as it's one of the most clearly defined aspects of her character.

Speaking of that, have I selected poorly? I just assumed that in a Starfinder adventure, piloting would be a fairly necessary skill set to cover, but if we spend most of our time on a space station or taking commercial transport, I may have wasted one of my very limited skill points. XD

Also, should I add a surname? I have it in mind that she comes from a reasonably wealthy family of Kalistocratic values, likely merchants and/or artisans, but my lack of familiarity with the setting makes it harder to nail that down. Gem cutters/dealers, maybe? Is there a likely corporation associated with such?

I read this and actually wondered if you were okay.

Other than the part about prophets not having sex which isn't really ever cleared up in terms of them having kids, Zem is pretty cool to me. I had planned for she & Zeph to chat about stuff at some point, I hope that's okay.

I read this and actually wondered if you were okay.

I was so excited that GM was giving Zemfira the 2nd Seat on their outboaund voyage ... but then you seemed to question choosing piloting. For me it seemed like an amazingly cool RP opportunity, for her to be at the helm of a space liner. Maybe I missed something though.

Other than the part about prophets not having sex which isn't really ever cleared up in terms of them having kids, Zem is pretty cool to me. I had planned for she & Zeph to chat about stuff at some point, I hope that's okay.

No need to worry! ^_^ I am always happy to interact with the party and will always respond in kind.

It's actually very par for the course for me to second guess my character design. I'm still just feeling things out/seeking guidance where I'm less informed and uncertain. Thank you for the reassurance!

I just meant to say that since the GM is going to wait until we are finished with our Excelsior related business before moving us on to "the start of the adventure", that I won't take up much more time interacting with NPC's rather than the party. I will still take up some as I do want to take advantage of the opportunity. I don't want to delay us from moving forward. Not for long, anyway. XD

I was going to play Dirk a bit conservative. How am I doing....

Seems good to me! Like a leaf in the stream of creation... ^_~

The main interaction I've thought to pursue is for Sparks to challenge others to some kind of video or board game, since he is a very playful being. But I can take it as read if we are ready to get to some adventure elements.

I'm sensing Zem and Zephyr (nice alliteration, that) are from upper class families. I'm not very familiar with the Kalistocrats either as a social class or a religious group. I can, of course, read source material, but since Sparks' religion is what he mainly knows about, I'll let the RP reveal what such folk are like. His parents likely know the group professionally (diplomat and priestess) so he likely has an academic understanding of them, but little personal experience, unless the Kalistocrats were common at the academy.

Dirk and Pertinax seem to be from a lower class or status. Sparks would not care about that, of course, being egalitarian in nature.

That raises a background question about the academy. What sort of people attend the academy. Is it like an Ivy League school where the upper class and people with money and influence send their children (with lower status students only able to enter if they are top notch students) or is it more like a state school that is more focused on providing an education for everyone, particularly those who may be excluded from the more prestigious private schools? Or is it an eclectic private school that fills a niche that attracts people who are keenly focused on learning what it offers?

In Pertinax's background, he was a well-liked, if not exceptional student, but one who had fallen in with what the administration considered a bad crowd and become a bit of a juvenile delinquent (at least as the authorities see it). So he was "awarded" this scholarship to get him out of the local authorities hair, and not have to send him to a juvenile detention center one day. Or, as seen from his perspective, the undead oppressors exiled him for being part of a Pharasmin sect (albeit a very junior member) that wants to overthrow Bone Sage rule on Eox.

...That raises a background question about the academy. What sort of people attend the academy. Is it like an Ivy League school where the upper class and people with money and influence send their children (with lower status students only able to enter if they are top notch students) or is it more like a state school that is more focused on providing an education for everyone, particularly those who may be excluded from the more prestigious private schools? Or is it an eclectic private school that fills a niche that attracts people who are keenly focused on learning what it offers?

I've collected the bits that got expanded on in the Campaign Info. I imagine the academy as a mix of the second two. A school set up initially to study unique stellar phenomena that incidentally or coincidentally had a few notable names come from or join. Then you have the religious call from individuals that view the unique properties of the system as a sign from a deity or deities, so enough congregation promotes learned thought, or at least study. All of this around the notion that it's pretty difficult to focus on discovery when there's nearby conflict, and conflict is annoying as well as detrimental, so alliances solidify and learning grows.

Then you get to the point where notable names have come from or to the area, notoriety becomes a thing that can be leveraged for good or ill, and it gets collected into PR and that study. PR begets or is born from Entertainment, so there's that inclusion.

So if it is a stellar concept, notable leyline existence, and other "star" metaphors, the System often adopts it or fosters it, and as long as notoriety garners attention, their "star" rises. In time, the Academy— and by association the other schools in the Dhacian Rota become more exclusive.

Essentially, it started at your second concept, is developing into the third, and has yet to introduce elements of the first concept, but eventually will if it becomes famed enough.

That was an interesting line of thought to explore, does that help with your framing?

Yes. Thanks.

Awesome. Thank you for the question. It let me dig further.

Hello! Disregard if you are all full. I've never played Starfinder and would likely need help with the learning curve. But I liked the opener and the references being made so I thought I might make an attempt at a concept.

Blue stars burn hot, bright and fast. That's the problem, you see. They burn themselves out or supernova all too soon. When they first manifested, the news was bittersweet. Living into retirement was unlikely. So they embraced their fate and sought to do as much as they could while they were around to do it. To make a name for themselves and make their family proud.

Unfortunately, I'm not very familiar with the setting to put in much detail. I don't even know what Alien/Race to pick. There are so many! The Worlanisi seemed interesting, but I saw the shield manifestation wasn't yet utilized but I'm not sure a small character lends itself well to tanking.

Is anyone going for piloting? That was an impulse to include in the concept, but wasn't sure if that role was already filled.

Anyway, would appreciate input toward choices that would synergize well with the concept or are just good for the build. I have built a pretty effective bodyguarding cavalier for PF1e before so I'm not completely hopeless. XD

Sorry Pyros ... I felt like Blue was honest enough on the way "in" about not knowing much about the setting ... so I figured I would help substantiate Sun Tzu versus calling anyone out. Hope that's okay with everyone.