Dani Merta, DCI's page

I also realize that I have been letting a fear of table variation stop me too long from playing this character the way she was meant to be played. I think she just lost her hearing. I've already paid for the Sign Language. I'm just going to let her be DEAF, and deal with the perception penalties.

I was referring more to this Vlaka adjustment:

However, this condition imposes no penalty to initiative rolls or opposed Perception checks that are not based on hearing. The vlaka is naturally without hearing, so the deafened condition can be removed only by effects that grant hearing to creatures with no natural ability to perceive sound.

I think that needs to be on all perma-deaf characters in Starfinder and Pathfinder. Without it, I was wary of table variation on how much my character could perceive.

This character was meant to be deaf, and instead I chose to make her a non-vebal C.O.D.A. (child of Deaf adults) with a hireling who signed with her because I could not find rules for characters in Starfinder that are permanently Deaf rather than temporarily suffering from the deafened condition. Yes, there are rules for permanently Deaf vlaka. But those rules were never extended to other permanently Deaf characters. At some point, I will have to make Vlaka just to have a truly deaf Starfinder character that is viable.

This character, with her permanent 120 foot telepathy and blind sense thought, was meant to be my Deaf character. But I was wary of table variation and the lack of clear rules in Organized Play. I love Deaf culture and am studying ASL. I had a regular Deaf gaming night that I attended before the Pandemic, and a Deaf friend who wanted to teach me Pathfinder 2 so that he could run an entire Deaf party of Deaf PCs played by Deaf players.

I would love for there to be some kind of ruling for permanently Deaf PCs that was more in line with the Deaf Vlakas that would fully allow Deaf representation in Organized Play. I do understand Blake's wariness. But I will say that we have a Sign Language feat and we have a Deaf VC. Let's have decent rules to allow Deaf Pathfinders and Starfinders of all types.

EDIT: Really more of an aside (and I fully expect even more people to disagree with this opinion), a more important first move would be for Organized Play to intentionally not use blindness or deafness as afflictions, punishments, something bad to be avoided, in their scenarios.

I could not agree more.

Hmm

Thanks again for running!

Hmm

That works!

Can you make your link shareable?

Hmm

GM, do you still have the PDF of the chronicles? It would be so much easier for me to have the original PDF for my folder. Thanks!

I enjoyed this scenario as well! Now I'm off to level Dani to level 4, as her next AP chronicle kicks in! I think my experiment with a phrenic adept was fairly successful, and she was able to help out her party, so yay!

Hmm

I've been enjoying my phrenic adept, Dani. I just have to accept that Phrenic Adept is the true class, here!

Hmm

Now gripping the cable, Dani swims firmly up with Guli, pulling the dwarf up with her.

Athletics: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (13) + 8 = 21

Oh, that is how the hydrojet is supposed to work! Then she spots the Cult leader. What was that you said about End Times, Tasuss?
Mindthrust: 2d10 ⇒ (6, 7) = 13 DC 14 for half

I will totally grab on. Mindthrusts, here we come!

I have to have line of sight to mind thrust. In calm waters this would be easy. In stormy waters, my only chance to do this comes if one of the bad guys gets tossed in the drink with me, or if I roll a natural 12 or better on my athletics check. Even Benny, who has a natural swim speed, will have troubles doing things in this storm, I think.

On the other hand, a 12 on the dice needs to show up sometime, right? The rest of you, concentrate on taking out bad guys, and I will keep trying to swim until I get this.

Athletics: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (1) + 8 = 9

Dani attempts once again to swim with the hydrojets, and her uncoordinated arms and legs flail everywhere as she attempts to learn to swim. She sinks further and further under the water, at one point kicking in the wrong direction.

Can someone throw me a rope so that I can mindthrust?

I was bummed that even with the hydrojets I could not make that DC 20 Athletics to swim! Is it as difficult to swim under the waterline as above?

Athletics with +8 for Hydrojet: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (8) + 8 = 16

The salt water spays her face from the nearby boats rushing their way. Even with the hydrojets, Dani flails a bit as she falls into the water. Crap. I guess to use these hydrojets, I need training.... She pushes the environmental seals on her armor, as the water goes over her head.

Still have 2 spells if I could just stay above the water long enough to target their heads.

Reflex: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (12) + 2 = 14

Dani barely makes her reflex to avoid being off-target, and then frowns as she realizes that with these choppy waters, the effort of staying in the Cherav is preventing her from doing spells.

You're in luck. I can't blow up your head right now, but nothing says I can't shoot you, she tells Teal, cheerfully. She targets Teal again with her laser pistol.

Zap (merciful azimuth laser pistol): 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (19) + 3 = 22
Non-Lethal Damage: 1d4 ⇒ 3

Do we have a second pilot? If we get rid of the jerk in the Teal jacket, we could have another vehicle to work with.

Dani looks at the Groetus followers. So... I have heard that you want the world to end, and you wish to start by blowing up a unique natural treasure and endangering scientists and knowledge seekers whose only crime was to come to admire a unique moment of beauty? She glances at the Green pilot and applies the pain. So, let's start by blowing things up, starting with your HEAD.

Mind Thrust: 2d10 ⇒ (2, 7) = 9 DC14 for half

Life Science: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (4) + 6 = 10 +1 Yaraesa to recall knowledge)
Reduce the DC by 5 for Culture, Life Science, or Mysticism checks to identify creatures or opponents with psychic or magical abilities -- though with that roll, even if it has them, I likely still have NO idea.

Dani shoots at the creature. Go away!
Zap (merciful azimuth laser pistol)+Get ‘em: 1d20 + 3 + 1 ⇒ (17) + 3 + 1 = 21
Non-Lethal Fire Damage: 1d4 ⇒ 3

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (20) + 8 = 28

We certainly don't want the Freehold to be hit with the collateral damage of the attacks that assailed us. It isn't our desire to turn you into a pubic spectacle. On the other hand, I believe strongly that standing with the Society has its advantages. Not just for us, but for you as well. Other than this most recent onslaught -- mostly on disreputable third party news sites -- the Society has built a reputation of being a solid partner and helpful friend. Many cultures first inroads to the Pact Worlds has been through us. Organizations as varied as the Xenowardens, the Knights of Golarian, and the Stewards have all sought our counsel and help.

Dani gestures to Dr. Helix and Benny. Both of my friends had their first contact with the Pact Worlds through the Society, and when my home town was under siege, and no one else would pitch in, the Society helped us out. I do think that it's not a bad idea to use your time here to make other contacts. There are so many groups here that could help the Freehold. So widen your connections and build your alliances! We're not asking you to cleave to us alone. But please don't forget that this opportunity too came from us. If you break from the Society, perhaps you will reduce your risks... but won't you reduce your opportunities as well?

So beautiful, Dani signs back. But I need to talk with these people a moment.

Perception: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (3) + 9 = 12
Culture: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (18) + 8 = 26 (+1 Yaraesa to recall knowledge)

GM, I think that high enough for Dani to have heard about the events of another scenario...

I am new to the Starfinders, Dani says, but even I have heard tales of how the Freehold and the Starfinders have met. The Starfinders had a mission to gather information that they diverted to selflessly mount a rescue to save and evacuate a Kreiholm Freehold hospital. Are those the actions of a selfish group out only for conquest? No, we explore, cooperate and report. Instead of making this phenomena our exclusive domain, we invited you and other scientists to participate. As scientists, will you believe base rumors, or the evidence of our actions?

Yeah, I read about that in the Times this morning. Whereas in the US, our outbreaks are so out of control that I feel like our government has stopped responding to the crisis at all.

Thank you for your sevice, Shifty. It's good to know that there are competent governments out there.

HMm

Cavaler would be a beautiful person to have on camera, and Benny is so photogenic! I could help them provide color commentary. Damiar pauses. No, I don't do voiceover work, or 'voice' anything really. But I'm a native sign speaker, and would be happy to provide sign interpretation for your audience... You were planning on sign interpretation, correct? Such an important event, you want to make sure that all your viewers can access and understand it.

Dani smiles, knowing full well that they weren't initially planning on the sign interpretation. Hearing media regularly forgot about the Deaf. Still, this means a lot to Dani. Having her family be able to see the broadcast and actually understand it... To know that Dani was part of this big science project, so big that CPBN was covering it, that would mean the world to them. They'd record it. They'd do a filming for all their friends at the local Deaf club in Asanatown. It would matter.

I and my colleague Beran here can help assist Cavaler and Benny with any technical information. We're from the Deep Cultures Institute on Stellacuna in the Burning Archipelago, and can provide engaging information that will put this important phenomena into context for your viewers.

Diplomacy, Aid Another: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (8) + 8 = 16

Dani grins as Cavaler fusses with his appearance. I see someone is feeling better. To CPBN, then?

She casually token spells him clean. Better?

CPBN on A9!

Culture: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (10) + 8 = 18 (+1 Yaraesa to recall knowledge)

Oh look! It's a ship from the Castrovel Planetary Broadcasting Network. Then Dani pauses. Were they one of the journalist causing the Society problems?

Dani looks to the politician, Cavaler. Up for a news crew, or the Land Hoard Holdings folks? If not, we should visit the Weydanites.

As for what happened to the people who were once here... I don't know, Dani says, honestly. We found some signs of worship of great old ones near the reflecting pool. From what little I know of them, they have never been particularly considerate of their followers. Did their colony die? Did they escape and travel to other worlds? All I know is that the clues lie here... Our exploring and data-sharing brings us closer to finding the answers. Then she grins. Or at the very least... better questions.

Dani nods. I had ferocious dreams right before a major solar flare on our sun, one that ripped my mind's defenses wide open! What, exactly did you dream? Let's go through the symbology. Also... where were you born? That can have a serious influence on your mindscape imagery.

Mysticism: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (12) + 11 = 23 (+1 Yaraesa bonus if this would be a recall knowledge)

Dani would also be for sharing their findings so far.

Alas, Dani has been in the DCI, the equivalent of an academic white tower, and has been paying zero attention to second-rate third party newsites. Hopefully others in the party are better informed!
Culture: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (2) + 8 = 10 (+1 Yaraesa to recall knowledge)

As a researcher from the DCI, it always confuses me why other groups keep to themselves so much, Dani says. Reaching out to your colleagues, sharing information, publishing findings... Dani pauses, letting her reasonable commentary sink in. That is how science progresses. The broad sharing of data and peer review.

As soon as Estrima turns around, Dani grins. Besides... you've heard the Society's motto, right? 'Explore, Cooperate, Report?' It's not... 'Stay huddled on your own rock, avoid people, and hoard information.' We're in a fabulous site, filled with ancient history. Why not look around?

Besides, I would be a poor worshipper of Hylax*, goddess of first contact, if I didn't at least try to make new friendships with people! We got to learn a bit about the Shatori, and they introduced us to the philosophy of the Shaban. We've found ancient runes, and morlamaw statues and... Actually, would you like to see some of them for yourself? I have pictures.

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (19) + 8 = 27

And while we're at it... Do we mind if we take a look around your rock? We've found something interesting at each one we've explored. The way I see it... If we all share our findings, we all win.

____
* Finally picked Dani's god. The boon for building a faith only allows CRB faiths and those explicitly offered as a character option on a chronicle. Besides, Hylax seems to be a pretty groovy goddess all around, especially for an empath!

Alright, we'll save the Dragon Corps for when our politician is feeling a bit better!

Cavaler, how many set up periods before you feel better?

Mindful that they are on a scientific mission, Dani votes that the party retain the finding.

She thanks the Xenodruids. It was a pleasure meeting all of you!

Culture: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (19) + 8 = 27 (+1 Yaraesa to recall knowledge)

Dani's eyebrows raise, and she gestures with concern. Beran, remember that vid show on Ships of the Pact Worlds that you made us watch, like twenty times? Isn't that one of the ships from Land-Hoard Holdings, Inc? That Triaxian DragonCorp infamous for seizing newly discovered planets and leasing out their valuable land?

Mindful that they are on a scientific mission, Dani votes that the party retain the finding.

So, we could visit the Ibrans, but we already made a good impression on them. We could visit the Weydanites or the Desnans, or we could go see what Land-Hoard Holdings is up to... Hmmph. Want to check out a Triaxian DragonCorp next? Or should we wait until Cavaler has recovered some so that he can razzle-dazzle them better? She glances at Cavaler. How are you feeling, by the way?

Glancing at Cavaler's green face, Dani hastily changes her mind, Maybe we should do the Desnans after all. When dealing with a Dragoncorps, we should all be at our best.

In sign language
Will do.

Dani waves at the shirren and begins projecting, telepathically. Her range is such that she doesn't have to 'shout' to have her telepathy heard. Before we get on the wrong foot, we'd love to help you get set up. Also... I may be able to help you coordinate your communications with your team while you set up. I may have slightly more telepathic range than you do.

Would you be interested? If we help you set up, maybe we can all talk afterwards. I am Dani, by the way. What's your name?

Culture: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (8) + 8 = 16 +1 Yaraesa to recall knowledge

Do Weydanites count as druids? Dani is confused for a moment, and then realizes that Dr. Helix is talking about the group of Xenowardens on A3. She points at them. You mean those folks, correct? I don't think it matters what order we talk to people. If you want to visit with the Xenowardens, let's go. She grins. I want to meet them all!

To the druids!

We should be exploring. I could keep the whole group in contact. Um, is there anyone good at climbing and squeezing and spelunking? I'm not physically trained at all.

Remember that we are on a clock here. I think that having part of the group explore while others set up is a great idea -- especially since the author provided us with some gear. Unfortunately, Dani has zero ranks in acrobatics and athletics. She is probably not the right choice for this. Still I will go if no one else does because we need to explore. Do we have anyone here who can do acrobatics or athletics at all?

That's also why Beran isn't rushing to set up, because hirelings only diversity your choices. They don't give you more actions. So if Beran helps set up, Dani can't go spelunking.

About the equipment -- Dani already has decent armor and a hydrojet, and no use for a rifle. So the rest of you can decide if you want the Shatori equipment.

Thank you Orvoll and Ellvant. It was an honor to be introduced to the Shaban! After we do all our findings, would you mind if I learned more?

Intimidate+Psychic Insight Aid Another: 1d20 + 1 + 2 ⇒ (11) + 1 + 2 = 14

Being under an occupation is a terrifying thing. Asanatown fell to an occupation of cultists and an ifrit Brass Dragon unit, but we did not give up our resistance, and eventually chased them out. Maintaining your integrity is important!

Although he perhaps struggles to describe their behavior very well, he can't help but think to himself borrowing those would really help our mission.

Er... How loudly did you think that?

Life Science: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (14) + 6 = 20 +1 Yaraesa if this counts as a recall knowledge

Dani is awed by the CHERAVS. I love how they fold in on themselves. The way those carbon rings fold in on one another reminds me of different organic carbon based forms. All from the same basic atoms, but with small shifts in structure making a huge difference.

Oops. That was all telepathic, not spoken. Sorry for any confusion my formatting there might have caused.

Your surgery rotation is more important than our game. However, letting us know approximately when you'll be back is great as a GM!

Culture: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (16) + 8 = 24
Survival: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (15) + 8 = 23

Dani looks sad as she realizes that Orvoll and the shatori are second class citizens in the Azlanti Empire. "I would love to hear more about your work. I know that the Azlanti Empire and the Starfinder Society have not had much reason to love each other in the past. Still, I am curious about you Shatori, and your role in what I understand to be a very human-centric empire. The Pact Worlds is a bit more egalitarian, but even back home some of the races face biases and distrust depending where they live. Still, we have some rules and protection in the Pact about the treatment of sentients. How is it in the Empire? And how has your group managed to travel out here unchaperoned? I thought the Azlantis were less trusting of their non-human citizens, and would be glad to be proved wrong."

Although not an astronomer herself, Dani discovers that her background working in the Deep Cultures Institute on Stellacuna has provided her with the ability to chat with scientists effortlessly about their work. The trick is to show a genuine interest, and ask lots of good questions.

Yet perhaps oddly appropriate for a sign language speaker!

Dani, you got a minute to talk privately?

Otherwise, provide me with a safe word.

Yet he sees no way to share his thoughts with others so he simply stands there.

*AHEM!*

She smiles at Orvoll. I would love to try your food, and you may take all the readings you like of me. Even among lashuntas, my telepathy is unusual. Perhaps you can help me find answers as to why.

Will post more later!

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (3) + 11 = 14

Dani nods as she takes in their emotions and body language and then she smiles graciously. Azlanti, but not human and not unfriendly.

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (18) + 8 = 26
Mysticism DC 15 to bypass any linguistic barriers with telepathy: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (17) + 11 = 28

Life Science to identify them?: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (10) + 6 = 16 Probably not.

Even for those in Orvoll's entourage who don't share a common language with Dani, her telepathic speech comes through as clearly as if she was speaking in their native tongues. Greetings, Orvoll. We assuredly did not come to chase you away. But... we would love to exchange astrological observations with you, and tour your observatory if you would let us. We're here for the science, but also to make friends and have a cultural exchange. We're curious about you, and I'm sure you're curious about us!

I am Dani. I'll let my colleagues introduce themselves. We're Starfinders, and have been watching the phenomena over Wealdriad for some time. We're so excited to be part of this expedition!

I want to see who built that observatory!

I just reread discussion and discovered that it makes no sense for us to set up if we're going to socialize since another group will just take our spot anyway. Under those circumstances... Let's do all our socializing first, and take whatever spot is left. We have to make friends as part of our mandate. I just didn't fully understand the mechanics at play here. Sorry for giving everyone bad advice.

If the GM will let us take back our engineering set up period, let's head to that observatory.

'Woo-woo water?' Dani raises an eyebrow. Really?

Then Dani sighs as she looks up at Benny. We're a science mission. I don't want to stop you from investigating. But... can we wait just a couple minutes to see if I am right about this before you stare at the woo--

Her thought breaks off for a moment and then she glares at Beran. Now, you've got me doing it!

Will: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (3) + 6 = 9

There goes my reroll...

4 Nova Campaign Coin: 1d20 + 6 + 4 ⇒ (16) + 6 + 4 = 26

Dani holds up her hands. I advise that others do not study these runes closely yet. There's some sort of mystical effect happening here, and I don't like it.

Cavaler? Dani walks up to Cavaler and snaps her fingers in the elf's face. Cavaler? Are you alright?

Thanks for summing up both the vote and the questions so nicely, Vecro. Most appreciated.

Can we do that after we set up on A4? Let's get our equipment set up first, then go visiting.

Meanwhile, Dani looks at the map. She signs excitedly for a few minutes, and then remembers that only Beran can understand her.

After we help the Ibrans, we may want to claim a reasonable spot for the observations. A2 or A3 both look good. Then I want to visit whomever built that dome on A1!

The oozes are moving to quickly for Dani to get a good shot, and her shot goes straight in to the wall. I guess I don't have a magnetic personality!

Zap (merciful azimuth laser pistol): 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (1) + 3 = 4
Non-Lethal Flame Damage: 1d4 ⇒ 1