GM Valen's Starfinder Society Scenario #1-13: On the Trail of History (Inactive)

Game Master Lysle

Regarding the space ship that attacked the Drake, Stell muses, "We detected something while we were in the drift, so it is likely that the ship followed us and is either trying to prevent us from discovering what we are looking for or someone protective of secrets of your research. Whoever they were, they did not try to communicate before the battle, just came in guns blazing. It could be an automated defense system.

"That they apparently self-destructed suggests they are very concerned about keeping their ships secrets, unless it was some damage that set it off. No life pods so either the explosion was unexpected or there was no crew to evacuate. Once we have our ship back in working order, we can see if we can detect anything useful in the debris."

Stell pulls out her data pad after asking if they mind if she takes notes.

Spinjack is about to interject a likely objection, but the clearly flattered Dr. Monsylkis speaks first. "I don't mind at all. I trust that you will find it quite informative!"

She listens intently as Stell discusses the unknown starship."Those are reasonable conclusions." She confirms. "Although I am obviously quite busy here, I would, of course, be interested in receiving any later findings you may make."

Looks like a toss up between the greenhouse or lab, so I will just go in the order presented in the scenario...

"This way." Dr. Monsylkis instructs as she leads the party on the commencement of a tour of her research station. Her two colleagues make a point of accompanying the doctor as well as the party.

"Upon graduating, I was approached by a recruiter from Winterharvest—a nonprofit looking to optimize seasonal agriculture on Triaxus—to direct a ten-year study to genetically enhance Triaxian plants using resources from a similar planet: Icefront." Dr. Monsylkis explains as the tour reaches the greenhouses.

Moving among a wide variety of plants and busy researchers, she continues. "The greenhouses host botanical experiments, where my researchers try to genetically engineer new plants or isolate desired plant phenotypes in a controlled environment."

PCs are free to attempt the checks below.

Chip doesn't know too much about plants.

Medicine: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (6) + 11 = 17

Sorry, I accidently posted with the wrong character. Paizo puts in a default sometimes and I didn't catch it.
Life Science: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (18) + 6 = 24
Medicine: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (8) + 9 = 17

Stell makes some more notes and then puts the following message on her datapad and slips each PC a quick look at it when the others are not monitoring her closely.

This kind of open-ended experimentation doesn’t align with Winterharvest’s agricultural mission, meaning it shouldn’t be supported by any kind of tightly controlled research grant. Something is fishy.

Sleight of Hand: 1d20 + 15 ⇒ (18) + 15 = 33

Can just take 10

Seldszar skims the research and listens to the explanation - parsing it against his scientific knowlede, eyes narrowing slightly. He smirks faintly as the pattern clicks into place.

“They’re engineering plants to bypass pharma patents” he thinks to himself, distilling the corporate implications into one razor-sharp line.

Without another word, he discreetly flicks the data to his companions’ datapads. Clean, quiet, and flagged for attention.

He just nods in concurrence to Stells warning.

Moving further along the tour, the party enters the laboratories, which house animal habitats for animal research as well as a number of desktops. Both Spinjack and Farvenzi make sure to keep up with the party.

"You will find our operations to be quite efficient." Dr. Monsylkis notes. "In this same space, we are able to house both animals for our research and our extensive data files from the station’s
entire operation!"

A PC examining the animal habitats may attempt a Survival, Life Science or Medicine check.

A PC who wishes can attempt to covertly access a desktop. To do so, a PC can dodge the station leadership’s attention for a minute by succeeding at a DC 29 Stealth check, which can be reduced to a DC 19 if another PC creates a distraction with a successful DC 24 Bluff or Diplomacy check, or if the PC has remote hack or a similarly applicable ability. In this unsupervised moment, the PC can attempt a Computers check to hack one of the desktops.

Just going to take 10 so far

Seldszar watches the caged creatures with cool detachment, noting their movements toward the modified plants. He turns slightly to Dr. Monsylkis, voice smooth but edged like a true Apostae Drow “Fascinating response. Is this level of dependency a feature of the current design, or simply an… unintended commercial opportunity?”

Best Seld has is [url=https://www.aonsrd.com/SpellDisplay.aspx?ItemName=Holographic%20Interface&Family=None]Holographic Interface[/ur] but that would involve casting a spell which could be a problem

Stell is concerned that the two accompanying Dr. Monsylkis are dangerous if they think the group poses a threat to their operation. She plays dumb and asks questions she hopes will make them think she knows less about what the doctor is showing than they do, while nevertheless paying close attention.

Survival: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (18) + 7 = 25
Bluff, Skill Expertise: 1d20 + 16 + 1d6 ⇒ (13) + 16 + (4) = 33 To appear to know little about science or medicine.

Stell puts a note on her datapad while listening to the Doctor drone on, sending a message to the Selszar and the others. I'll create a distraction if you want to try to see what's on those computers. Do the same for me and I'll try to swipe a sample of they are feeding these poor beasts.

It looks like Chip has the best skills to attempt a computer hack. To save time, I'll roll her distraction bluff check to give Chip a chance at the computers, which only takes place if he agrees.

For a distraction, Stell makes a fuss about how she loves animals but these look so pitiful that she moves to try to open a cage to try to comfort whichever appears most cute and cuddly. Animals always need some TLC every day, doncha know!

Bluff, Skill Expertise: 1d20 + 16 + 1d6 ⇒ (16) + 16 + (1) = 33

It looks like Selszar has the best chance of creating a distraction (diplomacy, looks best) to help Stell attempt to grab a sample after finishing the computer check distraction. Assuming a successful distraction check (see spoiler for the details), Stell will try to nab a sample. I'll wait to see if the distraction seems sufficient to make the sleight of hand check.

Looks like you made the check already and passed? :p

Medicine: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (7) + 11 = 18

Chip sends a thumbs-up icon back to Stel. He's confident about accessing the computers. Less so about doing so surreptitiously, but she seems to have the pretty well distracted.
Stealth: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (1) + 8 = 9

Oh, they're looking right at him. So he just... openly looks at the computer. "You don't have any concerns about cleanliness or moisture putting them in the animal room?" He touches the keyboard and then stops. "Oh, records of your operation. I suppose that's proprietary and you don't want me to touch it, huh? Sorry, just curious. More about your system then the records, really." He holds up his custom computer. "I work in It."

Seldszar watches the caged creatures with cool detachment, noting their movements toward the modified plants. He turns slightly to Dr. Monsylkis, voice smooth but edged like a true Apostae Drow “Fascinating response. Is this level of dependency a feature of the current design, or simply an… unintended commercial opportunity?”

"Commercial opportunity?!" Dr. Monsylkis replies indignantly. "What are you insinuating? Winterhaven is an agricultural development company and strictly a nonprofit. The verthani stresses. "My work her is largely academic and is quite humanitarian in nature."

For a distraction, Stell makes a fuss about how she loves animals but these look so pitiful that she moves to try to open a cage to try to comfort whichever appears most cute and cuddly. Animals always need some TLC every day, doncha know!

"Oh, yes!" Dr. Monsylkis encourages Stell. "As you can see, the animals are being treated as humanely as possible within our experimental parameters. And our work does merit close observation!"

Oh, they're looking right at him. So he just... openly looks at the computer. "You don't have any concerns about cleanliness or moisture putting them in the animal room?" He touches the keyboard and then stops. "Oh, records of your operation. I suppose that's proprietary and you don't want me to touch it, huh? Sorry, just curious. More about your system then the records, really." He holds up his custom computer. "I work in It."

The distraction is quite artful, but the halfling's efforts are not.

Spinjack glares at "Chip", then turns to Dr. Monsylkis. "I believe, Doctor, that we should help our guests reach the next leg of their mission.”

"Oh?" says the doctor, just now noticing "Chip".

A PC who wishes may appeal to Dr. Monsylkis to stay a little longer may attempt to do so with a Bluff or Diplomacy check.

Sense Motive 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (18) + 1 = 19

In a rare flicker of almost-empathy, Seldszar regards the other scientist with a measured look, just long enough to suggest he understands the frustration. His tone shifts, cool and pragmatic.

“We’re both scientists, and we both know science isn’t a hobby or a pastime. It’s an industry and the ones who own the plant and machinery don’t fuel it with love. They fuel it with credits. There are very few altruists on Apostae, Doctor. So when I see a commercial opportunity, I start crunching the numbers on how much bigger a lab that will buy me.”

Any trace of sentiment is gone and buried beneath the sharp calculation of commercial interests and House-trained ambition.

And thats where people work out Seldszar isn't exactly the good guys. Drow gonna Drow. Lawyers is going to Lawyer.

***

Diplomacy 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (13) + 11 = 24

Seldszar offers a warm, almost disarming smile, though the tone beneath it carries his usual iron edge - he’s more amused than truly patient.

Seldszar asides towards the halfling “Apologies, easily distracted person I’m afraid, a bit like this in the cockpit too. If I don’t keep them entertained, they’ll start poking at systems they shouldn’t. Perhaps a brief pause to examine the animals, hmm? I’m sure we’ve got plenty of time to wander, after all, it’s not like we’re all being paid by the hour.”

The jest hangs light in the air, but the weight of command lingers just beneath the charm. He is the sort of person who offers charm but in a way that suggests it is easier just to play along with me than argue

Seldszar asides towards the halfling “Apologies, easily distracted person I’m afraid, a bit like this in the cockpit too. If I don’t keep them entertained, they’ll start poking at systems they shouldn’t. Perhaps a brief pause to examine the animals, hmm? I’m sure we’ve got plenty of time to wander, after all, it’s not like we’re all being paid by the hour.”

"I can get easily distracted myself," Dr. Monsylkis concedes, feeling a bit more at ease. "What area of the research facility would you like to see next? Our climate manipulation device can be found in the scaffold tower. Or, perhaps, you would rather get a glimpse of our accommodations in the housing area?"

The PCs are free to make another attempt to get information in the laboratory or move onto one of the other suggested areas. Rule of two--two posts in agreement on a course of action moves us along.

Sense Motive, skill expertise: 1d20 + 8 + 1d6 ⇒ (7) + 8 + (2) = 17

Stell gives up on trying to swipe a food pellet. Best to focus on the mission and try to navigate the tour in such a way as to learn what can be learned about this strange group. They certainly don't seem to be behaving as if they are doing nonprofit work.

"I'm curious about climate manipulation. As the old joke says, 'Everybody talks about the weather but nobody does anything about it.'"

"Climate manipulation device? Oh right, we did notice something unusual--I guess that will explain that." Chip checks his notes, but he doesn't have much since he was distracted when their ship was attacked.

"Yeah I always wonder about the weather and want to do something about it. Maybe we should check that out!"

"You wish to see the weather device?" Dr. Monsylkis notes, visually pleased. "Then, follow me." The verthani woman leads the party to one of the research station's exists and outside into the cold where snow is currently falling. All are followed closely by Spinjack and Farvenzi.

The verthani woman leads the party toward an impressive structure. As you approach, your ears are inundated with noise. Not even the snow can muffle the shrieks of steam valves and the hum of electric generators emanating from the steel scaffold tower. Regularly spaced blue signal lamps send waves of blue light up the length of the tower, while thick reinforced plastic walls enclose the tower’s base like a makeshift fortress.

The imposing walls stand fifteen feet high, but the tower itself rises to a total of 150 feet as it looms over the nearby edge of a boreal forest.

"The scaffold tower is a climate manipulation device that affords my researchers some control over the station’s weather, helpful for managing climate-sensitive experiments!" Dr. Monsylkis explains loudly as she attempts to be heard over the surrounding clammer.

Any PC may attempt BOTH a DC 24 Engineering check AND a DC 25 Physical Science check.

Any PC may attempt a Perception check.

PS Take 10 = 26
Eng Take 10 = 25
Perception 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (9) + 10 = 19

"You're overworking this machine - that's going to create undue wear and tear and things are going to break sooner than they should. Might need a more robust system more fitted to the task"

"You're overworking this machine - that's going to create undue wear and tear and things are going to break sooner than they should. Might need a more robust system more fitted to the task"

A look of concern comes across Dr. Monsylkis's face. "Do you really think so?" She inquires with doubt evident in her voice. "How can you be certain? You haven't even inspected the device up close. I, on the other hand, have been working at this facility for some time and I have yet to notice anything that might give me pause about the effectiveness of this device."

Farvenzi crosses her arms, then addresses the verthani woman. "I believe that this is a good time to bring the tour to an end, Dr. Monsylkis. Your guests wanted to speak with the izalguuns about some relics or records, didn't they?"

"Yes, I suppose they did." Dr. Monsylkis mutters in reply, although her ears are clearly now more focused on the tower and the sounds coming it from it.

What do you wish to do, Starfinders?

Physical Science: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (7) + 12 = 19 If this counts as "knowledge about strange new worlds or features of space," then Chip's theme knowledge applies and that's a success... although he failed the other check anyway so it's probably moot.
Engineering: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (10) + 12 = 22
Perception: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (13) + 9 = 22

"Thank you, doctor. Your work is fascinating, though it's true we've been imposing on you." Chip smiles at Favenzi, "I apologize for taking up so much of your time and attention."

Chip doesn't see a reason to push back at the moment.

Perception: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (13) + 11 = 24

"Thank you," Stell says. "I can't say I understood much of that. I'm not that familiar with science and technology. I'm here mostly for diplomatic skills. Good luck with your research."

She next addresses her Starfinder mates, "Let's suit up and see what it's like out there."

"Yes, we still need to investigate what we came for. As intersting as this place is - and I appreciate your work here - we still need to work out if this planet has the leads we need, so speaking to the locals is probably helpful"

"Seldszar good idea! We should talk to folks around the planet to get a lay of the land"

"I can give you directions to a nearby izalguun encampment. It lies just a few hours beyond the scaffold tower here." Dr. Monsylkis informs the party. "Otherwise, I am afraid that I have no more information that might be helpful to you."

Spinjack appears pleased when the party announces its intention to leave the station. True to her word, Dr. Monsylkis provides a set of directions. F Despite having stuck closely during the station tour, none of research staff offer any escort to the encampment.

Following the directions provided, you head into the nearby forest. T the ambient noise of the research station fades into the distance, muffled by the snow.

It is not long before you find a forest path, which leads you to a series of rocky outcroppings among several trees to the southwest. The path through the trees, their long branches and fan-like fronds coated in white, is still and serene. In the distance, the sound of branches snapping shatters the quiet, and a guttural mix of roar and moan echoes through the wood.

Up ahead, you spy three bipedal creatures, each with four arms. The trio have distinctly light grey--almost silver--coloration, with occasional mottling of green around joints. Their lower arms are bulkier and elongated, useable as a second set of legs. Each has a vertically-oriented mouth with a bony chin protrusion meant to collect food or liquid runoff. You conclude that these creatures are izalguun. Wearing some sort of animal hide and wielding spears, they appear likely to be hunters.

The izalguuns are beating back three massive beasts, which resemble gigantic sloths with giraffe-like necks and long, equine snouts. The izalguuns are doing their best to fend off the attackers.

Two of the creatures (red & blue) advance through the forest toward the izalguuns.
Double move for each due to difficult terrain.

MOVING ON! - Combat Round One Begins!

PCs in bold may act

Creature (red)
Creature (blue)
Seldszar
Izalguun (purple)
Dirk
Stell
Izalguun (black)
Izalguun (green)
Creature (yellow)

Map now available on Slides.
Squares with trees provide cover to Large or smaller creatures occupying them; Large or larger creatures treat such squares as difficult terrain. Ongoing snowfall provides creatures with concealment beyond 60 feet.

Life Science 1d20 + 15 ⇒ (12) + 15 = 27

As the megzoloths Seldszar watches them megzoloths with narrowed eyes, unfazed by the oncoming threat.

“Megzoloths, hm? Supposed to be gentle herbivores, but these ones look like they’ve lost their appetite for the usual greens. Still, those claws say they’re not to be underestimated, and they’ve got a nasty habit of tripping anything they swipe. Cute and inconvenient.”

With a flick of his wrist and a murmured command, a wall of scalding steam erupts in front of the creatures, hissing violently like an angry kettle. Beside him, the spider-like combat drone pivots smoothly and lets loose a crackling burst of plasma at the red megzoloth.

Seldszar
Wall of Steam
Hits all three targets
Damage 2d4 ⇒ (1, 4) = 5

Arachne
Attacks Red
Attack 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (15) + 7 = 22 vs EAC
Damage 1d10 + 5 ⇒ (2) + 5 = 7 E/F

Life Science 1d20+15With a flick of his wrist and a murmured command, a wall of scalding steam erupts in front of the creatures, hissing violently like an angry kettle.

All of the scalded megzoloths growl in pain. One (red) cries out more as it is struck with plasma.

One of the izalguun (purple) attempts to jab at a megzoloth (red) through the steam.
Guarded Step
Melee (tactical spear): 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (10) + 13 = 23
Concealment <21%: 1d100 ⇒ 51
Damage (P) plus block: 1d6 + 9 ⇒ (5) + 9 = 14

MOVING ON! - Combat Round One Cont'd!

PCs in bold may act

Megzoloth (red) -26 HP
Megzoloth (blue) -5 HP
Seldszar
Izalguun (purple)
Dirk
Stell
Izalguun (black)
Izalguun (green)
Megzoloth (yellow) -5 HP

Map available on Slides.
Squares with trees provide cover to Large or smaller creatures occupying them; Large or larger creatures treat such squares as difficult terrain. Ongoing snowfall provides creatures with concealment beyond 60 feet.

Dirk activates his solar weapon and moves towards the creatures.

double move

"Anyone know about these things?"

Seldszar shared what he knew in a prior post. He rolled well enough to ask another question for information, although I suspect he will not find anything further to be of much interest.

MOVING ON! - Combat Round One Cont'd!

PCs in bold may act

Megzoloth (red) -26 HP
Megzoloth (blue) -5 HP
Seldszar
Izalguun (purple)
Dirk
Stell
Izalguun (black)
Izalguun (green)
Megzoloth (yellow) -5 HP
Chip

Map available on Slides.
Squares with trees provide cover to Large or smaller creatures occupying them; Large or larger creatures treat such squares as difficult terrain. Ongoing snowfall provides creatures with concealment beyond 60 feet.

Life Science: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (3) + 6 = 9

"Whatever they are, I hope the izalguun don't think we're trying to poach their quarry," Stell says as she advances and draws her coil sniper rifle. Once she gets a clear shot, she fires at red. The gun whines slightly as the EM fields build, followed by a sharp crack as the supersonic slug is accelerated down the long barrel.

specialist Coil Rifle, vs KAC: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (12) + 9 = 21
Damage, P: 2d6 + 5 ⇒ (5, 1) + 5 = 11 range: 70'

Stell manages to pierce the hide of one of the megzoloths.

Realizing that the steam is not burning them, two izalguuns (black & green) approach and try to drive off the nearest megzoloth (blue)
Izalguun (black): Move
Melee (tactical spear): 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (9) + 13 = 22
Concealment <21%: 1d100 ⇒ 11
Damage (P) plus block: 1d6 + 9 ⇒ (3) + 9 = 12
Izalguun (green): Move
Melee (tactical spear): 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (12) + 13 = 25
Concealment <21%: 1d100 ⇒ 26
Damage (P) plus block: 1d6 + 9 ⇒ (2) + 9 = 11

Only one manages to hit through the steam.

Not wanting to get burned, one of the megzoloth's turns and heads toward the party of Starfinders.
Double move

MOVING ON! - Combat Round One Cont'd!

PCs in bold may act

Megzoloth (red) -37 HP
Megzoloth (blue) -16 HP
Seldszar
Izalguun (purple)
Dirk
Stell
Izalguun (black)
Izalguun (green)
Megzoloth (yellow) -5 HP
Chip

Map available on Slides.
Squares with trees provide cover to Large or smaller creatures occupying them; Large or larger creatures treat such squares as difficult terrain. Ongoing snowfall provides creatures with concealment beyond 60 feet.

"Herbivores won't try to eat you. That doesn't mean they're not dangerous. Let's give 'em something else to, uh, not eat, Checker!"

The drone lumbers forward while Chip positions, readying his rifle. He fires on the creature coming towards them.

Drone: Checker moves
Move: Chip moves
Standard: Attack Yellow Invigorating Azimuth Laser Rifle vs EAC: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (8) + 5 = 13 for Fire damage: 1d8 + 4 ⇒ (5) + 4 = 9

Deterred by the steam, the megzoloths move toward other perceived threats.

Megzoloth (red): Move, attack
Melee claw (10 ft. reach) v Dirk: 1d20 + 16 ⇒ (1) + 16 = 17
Damage (S) plus trip: 1d8 + 11 ⇒ (3) + 11 = 14

Megzoloth (blue): Move x2

MOVING ON! - Combat Round Two Begins!

PCs in bold may act

Megzoloth (red) -37 HP
Megzoloth (blue) -16 HP
Seldszar
Izalguun (purple)
Dirk
Stell
Izalguun (black)
Izalguun (green)
Megzoloth (yellow) -5 HP
Chip

Map available on Slides.
Squares with trees provide cover to Large or smaller creatures occupying them; Large or larger creatures treat such squares as difficult terrain. Ongoing snowfall provides creatures with concealment beyond 60 feet.

Seldszar and Arachne open fire, their shots precise and unflinching. The gleam in Seldszar’s eye as he squeezes the trigger of his laser rifle, paired with Arachne’s cold, surgical bursts of superheated plasma, hints at a shared preference - that the beasts choose to fight rather than flee.

Seldszar vs RED
Attack 1d20 + 9 - 2 ⇒ (20) + 9 - 2 = 27 vs EAC
Damage 2d6 + 6 ⇒ (1, 1) + 6 = 8 F
CRIT! Add damage 2d6 + 6 ⇒ (5, 3) + 6 = 14 F
+BURN 1d6 ⇒ 3 F

Attack 1d20 + 9 - 2 ⇒ (3) + 9 - 2 = 10 vs EAC
Damage 2d6 + 6 ⇒ (3, 2) + 6 = 11 F

Arachnae vs RED
Attack 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (17) + 7 = 24 vs EAC
Damage 1d10 + 5 ⇒ (7) + 5 = 12 E/F

Seldszar hits hard and Arachnae hits once.

Unwilling to move through the steam, an izalguun pauses. (Delay)

MOVING ON! - Combat Round Two Cont'd!

PCs in bold may act

Megzoloth (red) -74 HP (burning)
Megzoloth (blue) -16 HP
Seldszar
Izalguun (purple) (Delay)
Dirk
Stell
Izalguun (black)
Izalguun (green)
Megzoloth (yellow) -5 HP
Chip

Map available on Slides.
Squares with trees provide cover to Large or smaller creatures occupying them; Large or larger creatures treat such squares as difficult terrain. Ongoing snowfall provides creatures with concealment beyond 60 feet.

Dirk attacks the creature red nonlethal and tries to knock it out with the side of the blade.

attack solar weapon: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (17) + 6 = 23

damage: 1d6 + 10 + 1d4 ⇒ (1) + 10 + (1) = 12

Stell calls out to Seldszar, "Can you turn off the wall of steam and let them at their quarry?" She retreats back to where she started as she says this, then turns and fires her rifle at the middle one. Blue.

specialist Coil Rifle, vs KAC: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (11) + 9 = 20
Damage, P: 2d6 + 5 ⇒ (5, 3) + 5 = 13 range: 70'

As Dirk approaches, the megzoloth (red) takes a swipe with its claw.
Melee (claw)(10 foot reach), AoO v. Dirk: 1d20 + 16 ⇒ (3) + 16 = 19
Damage (S): 1d8 + 11 ⇒ (7) + 11 = 18

Like their ally, the other two izalguuns pause. (black & green)(Delay)

The furthest megzoloth (yellow) moves through the thick growth.
Move x2

MOVING ON! - Combat Round Two Cont'd!

PCs in bold may act

Megzoloth (red) -86 HP (burning)
Megzoloth (blue) -29 HP
Seldszar
Izalguun (purple) (Delay)
Dirk
Stell
Izalguun (black) (Delay)
Izalguun (green) (Delay)
Megzoloth (yellow) -5 HP
Chip

Map available on Slides.
Squares with trees provide cover to Large or smaller creatures occupying them; Large or larger creatures treat such squares as difficult terrain. Ongoing snowfall provides creatures with concealment beyond 60 feet.

"We're not the first aliens here, and it didn't sound like their relationship with the researchers is hostile. Maybe they know some Common?" Chip calls out, "We're trying to help you!"

He sends Checker to move up and attack the injured one, while he takes a shot at one of the closer ones.

Drone: Checker Moves
Move: Master Control, Checker attacks Red Tactical Doshko vs KAC: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (7) + 6 = 13 for piercing damage: 1d12 + 6 ⇒ (1) + 6 = 7
Standard: Attack Blue Invigorating Azimuth Laser Rifle vs EAC: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (2) + 5 = 7 for fire damage: 1d8 + 4 ⇒ (8) + 4 = 12

Chip's and Checker's attacks each miss their target.

Megzoloth (red), burn: 1d6 ⇒ 2

The most badly injured megzoloth (red) tries to run away.
Double move

Another (blue) attacks the nearest target, Checker!
Melee (claw), full-attack v Checkers: 1d20 + 16 - 4 ⇒ (8) + 16 - 4 = 20
Damage (S) plus trip: 1d8 + 11 ⇒ (5) + 11 = 16
Melee (claw), full-attack v Checkers: 1d20 + 16 - 4 ⇒ (12) + 16 - 4 = 24
Damage (S) plus trip: 1d8 + 11 ⇒ (3) + 11 = 14

The creature rips into the drone's outer casing.

MOVING ON! - Combat Round Three Begins!

PCs in bold may act

Megzoloth (red) -88 HP (burning)
Megzoloth (blue) -29 HP
Seldszar
Izalguun (purple) (Delay)
Dirk
Stell
Izalguun (black) (Delay)
Izalguun (green) (Delay)
Megzoloth (yellow) -5 HP
Chip
Checker -28 HP

Map available on Slides.
Squares with trees provide cover to Large or smaller creatures occupying them; Large or larger creatures treat such squares as difficult terrain. Ongoing snowfall provides creatures with concealment beyond 60 feet.

Laser and Plasma continue to stream fromthe Apostae duo as they march their agression on the remaining beast - not caring about the other one now it is fleeing.

Seldszar vs Blue
Attack 1d20 + 9 - 2 ⇒ (11) + 9 - 2 = 18 vs EAC
Damage 2d6 + 6 ⇒ (6, 2) + 6 = 14 F

Attack 1d20 + 9 - 2 ⇒ (19) + 9 - 2 = 26 vs EAC
Damage 2d6 + 6 ⇒ (3, 2) + 6 = 11 F

Arachnae vs Blue
Attack 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (12) + 7 = 19 vs EAC
Damage 1d10 + 5 ⇒ (8) + 5 = 13 E/F

Stell chambers another round into her coil rifle, aims, an sends another bullet toward the least injured one Yellow.

specialist Coil Rifle, vs KAC: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (3) + 9 = 12
Damage, P: 2d6 + 5 ⇒ (6, 3) + 5 = 14 range: 70'

Dirk moves and smacks the one near him. He points at red. But he swings in the air.

"Get! Go!"

non lethal

attack: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (3) + 4 = 7

damage: 1d6 + 10 ⇒ (2) + 10 = 12

Seldszar and Arachnae land three shots total on one megzoloth (blue).

The others miss their targets.

As the izalguuns continue to look on, wary of the steam, one of the megzoloths (yellow) advances and claws at Chip.
Move
Melee (claw)(10 ft reach) v. Chip: 1d20 + 16 ⇒ (15) + 16 = 31
Damage (S) plus trip: 1d8 + 11 ⇒ (2) + 11 = 13

Chip is tripped by the powerful blow!

MOVING ON! - Combat Round Three Cont'd!

PCs in bold may act

Megzoloth (red) -88 HP (burning)
Megzoloth (blue) -67 HP
Seldszar
Izalguun (purple) (Delay)
Dirk
Stell
Izalguun (black) (Delay)
Izalguun (green) (Delay)
Megzoloth (yellow) -5 HP
Chip -13 HP (prone)
Checker -28 HP

Map available on Slides.
Squares with trees provide cover to Large or smaller creatures occupying them; Large or larger creatures treat such squares as difficult terrain. Ongoing snowfall provides creatures with concealment beyond 60 feet.

Oh. That's not ideal. Facedown in the snow, Chip pushes himself up and falls back a bit. The badly damaged drone steps up.

Move: Stand (presumably provoking AoO from Yellow if it has reach)
Standard: Move
Drone: Guarded Step

As Chip attempts to get to his feet, the megzoloth (yellow) tries to keep him down.
Melee (claw)(10 ft reach) v. Chip, AoO: 1d20 + 16 ⇒ (16) + 16 = 32
Damage (S) plus trip: 1d8 + 11 ⇒ (5) + 11 = 16

Chip is again sent to the ground.

The fleeing megzoloth (red) continues to burn.
Fire: 1d6 ⇒ 1

And continues to flee.
Double Move

Another one (blue), less injured, fights on, attacking the nearest threat.
Melee (claw)(10 ft reach) v. Dirk, full-attack: 1d20 + 16 - 4 ⇒ (20) + 16 - 4 = 32
Damage (S) plus trip: 1d8 + 11 ⇒ (8) + 11 = 19
Add Crit Damage (S): 1d8 + 11 ⇒ (3) + 11 = 14
Melee (claw)(10 ft reach) v. Dirk, full-attack: 1d20 + 16 - 4 ⇒ (17) + 16 - 4 = 29
Damage (S) plus trip: 1d8 + 11 ⇒ (8) + 11 = 19

The megzoloth knocks Dirk prone and continues to attack.

MOVING ON! - Combat Round Four Begins!

PCs in bold may act

Megzoloth (red) -89 HP (burning)
Megzoloth (blue) -67 HP
Seldszar
Izalguun (purple) (Delay)
Dirk -52 SP (prone)
Stell
Izalguun (black) (Delay)
Izalguun (green) (Delay)
Megzoloth (yellow) -5 HP
Chip -29 SP (prone)
Checker -28 HP

Map available on Slides.
Squares with trees provide cover to Large or smaller creatures occupying them; Large or larger creatures treat such squares as difficult terrain. Ongoing snowfall provides creatures with concealment beyond 60 feet.

The drow and his machine just enjoy keeping up the unrelenting outpouring of laser and plasma...

Seldszar vs Blue
Attack 1d20 + 9 - 2 ⇒ (7) + 9 - 2 = 14 vs EAC
Damage 2d6 + 6 ⇒ (2, 3) + 6 = 11 F

Attack 1d20 + 9 - 2 ⇒ (14) + 9 - 2 = 21 vs EAC
Damage 2d6 + 6 ⇒ (3, 1) + 6 = 10 F

Arachnae vs Blue
Attack 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (20) + 7 = 27 vs EAC
CRIT Damage 2d10 + 10 ⇒ (2, 1) + 10 = 13 E/F
+DC12 Fort save or take a WOUND = 1d20 ⇒ 8 = Bleed 1d6 ⇒ 2

"Seldszar! Please take down that steam wall so our potential friends can help us fight these things!"

Then she fires another round at the most injured one, hoping to keep it from further savaging Dirk.

specialist Coil Rifle, vs KAC: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (9) + 9 = 18
Damage, P: 2d6 + 5 ⇒ (1, 3) + 5 = 9 range: 70'

Focusing fire, Seldszar, Arachne, and Stell each land a shot on the megzoloth (blue)

The onslaught is more than the creature can bear and it drops dead.

MOVING ON! - Combat Round Four Begins!

PCs in bold may act

Megzoloth (red) -89 HP (burning)
Megzoloth (blue) -99+ HP
Seldszar
Izalguun (purple) (Delay)
Dirk -52 SP (prone)
Stell
Izalguun (black) (Delay)
Izalguun (green) (Delay)
Megzoloth (yellow) -5 HP
Chip -29 SP (prone)
Checker -28 HP

Map available on Slides.
Squares with trees provide cover to Large or smaller creatures occupying them; Large or larger creatures treat such squares as difficult terrain. Ongoing snowfall provides creatures with concealment beyond 60 feet.

Dirk stands and moves towards yellow.

"Move creature!"

As Dirk approaches, the creature (yellow) swipes at him with its claws.
Melee (claw)(10 ft reach) v. Dirk, full-attack: 1d20 + 16 - 4 ⇒ (8) + 16 - 4 = 20
Damage (S) plus trip: 1d8 + 11 ⇒ (4) + 11 = 15
Melee (claw)(10 ft reach) v. Dirk, full-attack: 1d20 + 16 - 4 ⇒ (14) + 16 - 4 = 26
Damage (S) plus trip: 1d8 + 11 ⇒ (8) + 11 = 19

MOVING ON! - Combat Round Four Cont'd!

PCs in bold may act

Megzoloth (red) -89 HP (burning)
Seldszar
Izalguun (purple) (Delay)
Dirk -54 SP | -17 HP
Stell
Izalguun (black) (Delay)
Izalguun (green) (Delay)
Megzoloth (yellow) -5 HP
Chip -29 SP (prone)
Checker -28 HP

Map available on Slides.
Squares with trees provide cover to Large or smaller creatures occupying them; Large or larger creatures treat such squares as difficult terrain. Ongoing snowfall provides creatures with concealment beyond 60 feet.