Zynete's page

"Intruders detected," echo the robots as they scan their sensors across the party. "Seeking appropriate protocols."

"Protocol database not found. Applying default response: termination."

Their rotors moves into attack positions as two rush toward the closest Starfinders. The batons swing with all the momentum as they charge forward. "Closing distance. Maximizing force."

Blue Baton vs Trill KAC: 1d20 + 4 - 2 ⇒ (18) + 4 - 2 = 20
Bludgeoning Damage: 1d4 + 2 ⇒ (1) + 2 = 3
Just confirming, would Trill like to use reflecting armor here?

Blue Baton vs Chance KAC: 1d20 + 4 - 2 ⇒ (11) + 4 - 2 = 13
Bludgeoning Damage: 1d4 + 2 ⇒ (1) + 2 = 3

The strikes connect, but only deal the lowest of their potential damage. They attempt to keep close, but give error messages declaring that their close combat routines can not be found.

The other two hang farther back in the room as they declare their intent, "complimenting melee attacks with ranged support. Initiating firing patterns."

Yellow Pistol vs. Norbert KAC: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (5) + 7 = 12
Cold & Piercing Damage: 1d4 ⇒ 2

White Pistol vs. Albrik KAC: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (3) + 7 = 10
Cold & Piercing Damage: 1d4 ⇒ 2

The attacks land off target and fire frozen projectiles into the wall and floor. "Recalibration needed on targeting sensors."

As they charge in Almina is calling through the comms to Trill. "Absolutely not friendly! Keep flying, I think I can slow their programming a bit!"

After she declares that the bright yellow robot beings sparking and twitching as it struggles to mount a defense. Yellow is currently flat-footed.

Round 1
Robots
. blue (charge -2 AC)
. red (charge -2 AC)
. yellow (flat-footed)
. white
Norbert
Mizzrym’
Chance (3 damage)
Albrik
RZMR
Almina
Round 2
Trill (3 damage)

Everyone is up!

The response from Almina in regards to RZMR's debate is one that depicts consideration.

":/"

Routing the communication into the network and granting her access is simple process. You get a call on the comms soon after along with a few prompts for camera and audio access.

Answering the call produces a warbling sound as the comms settle. Within is a cheery voice voice, although a bit exhausted, coming through as she asks, "hello? Hello? Am I coming through clear?"

"I think I'm connected! You should be able to move around and I'll give some support as I dig around here."

Where does the party wish to go? Explore down the hallway and the doors along the northern path, or into the larger room?

"That is wonderful," announces Morning Song. "Investigating the Rec Room sounds like a perfect idea. I actually think there is something we have on that can help. Just relax her the beverages and I'll be right back."

Lulo buzzes as they take their own look at the enlistment records. "Bloodly arrogant. It was almost taken as certain that Iroiveth was a false identify since they were no records of them. It seems like people were giving them far more credit if they were just working with their registered name!"

Pulling from the records, Norbert isn't able to find any record of Evethriel's presence in the Society despite being able to find other records of Starfinders from that same era. Norbert is able to confirm that Venture-Captain Koerah was a leader of that era that had vanished and was never found in the years since.

RZMR is able to follow more extensive chains of records from the past centuries and identifies that Koerah has a few surviving descendants including the currently active Venture-Captain Arvin. Arvin is a Venture-Captain based on Absalom Station and is a responsible for much for the missions many, including several of you, have been assigned to in your time as Starfinders.

The records regarding the group Iroiveth traveled with are limited and there isn't much detail on the group aside it being a small team that worked together approximately made up of six members. Their records might be among the documents you searched, but there is no lead among the document to help identify them.

Given the plethora of records Chance does start going through the vast array of documents. She is able to find one of the enlistment boxes that has records for the time period that matches when Ivoiveth was suspected of being a member of the Society. After nearly an hour going through each record one by one, Chance finds a record for Iroiveth.

Within the box are two sequential files for the enlistment of Iroiveth and their sister Evethriel that applied to join, and were accepted into, the Starfinder Society together. There attached pictures along with the documents that depicted a pair of elves that show a striking familial likeness.

Chance is able to connect that to a nearby cache that holds personal evaluations of Starfinders for that same time period. It takes a bit more time but she fines another bit of information in the form of an evaluation by Venture-Captain Koerah, a Venture-Captain from a hundred years ago.

This report reviewing Iroiveth mentions a strong bond developing between a small group of Starfinders who work well together. It further comments that Iroiveth has shown natural leadership within the group.

* * * *

Elsewhere Norbert searches the far and dark corners and cubbies of the records. He is able to match them to a few boxes of records linked to the former Venture-Captain.

Within a box of records marked "filing", Norbert finds an unofficial report to Venture-Captain Koerah from someone named Almina.

As requested, I followed Iroiveth and confirmed they frequently meet with the others in Rec Room 247 in the Starfinder Quarters. After I observed them entering, I waited 20 minutes before moving in for a closer look. They were no longer there! I swear they couldn’t have slipped by without me seeing them.

Another box was labeled VC Koerah and contained a collection of personal effects. The contents included pictures of the lashunta and her presumably her family. There are also some personal awards of merit and a personal diary. The diary is a yellowed book with a large number of pages that have been ripped out.

One of the entries right before that gap is of special interest.

I'm pleased to note that my youngest daughter's pregnancy is progressing well, and the infant seems healthy. I wonder if they'll follow in our footsteps and join the Starfinder Society. On a less cheerful note, Iroiveth and Evethriel have again been reported as bullying newer recruits and trying to sway them to conduct unbecoming of a Starfinder.

Following the removed pages the journal has several blank pages, but Norbert catches sight of a easy to miss entry right at the back.

This mission is unexpected. I'm sure that team is behind this somehow, but none of them are going, so it must be to get me out of the way. I'll have someone keep an eye on them in my absence. Perhaps Almina's available.

* * * *

Mizzrym' finds success as well amid stacks of inventory documents. There he found a misfiled incident report that discussed missing supplies and the suspicion that Iroiveth was involved, specifically noting that they had a duty shift a little before the alleged theft was discovered. Adding to the suspicions, the reporter states that several of Iroiveth's cronies were seen in the area. Unfortunately, insufficient evidence was found to file a formal accusation. Based on the lack of sign off or response attached to this document, it's unclear if this report was ever seen by those it was intended for.

* * * *

Both RZMR and Albrik look for trace elements of magic, unfortunately RZMR shapes the the fields as he moves about creating a trail of magic in his wake. The brief disruption is not insurmountable though and Albrik is able to just sort through it and find one of boxes filled with physical copies of mission reports still holding a waning seal protecting the contents from divination magic.

Among the reports is one where Iroiveth led a team, including Evethriel. The mission was a success, but an appended unofficial complaint states that several of the Starfinders, including the leader, were offensive in their dealings with the locals and condescending to officials.

"Subdermal implant?" Chance asks, and then blinks when Royo show her. "Oh, that's lit! How do I get one of those?"

Then Chance asks, "Um, what other sort of cybernetic augmentations did you find on Ivoiveth?" Chance looks around, nervously. "Also, what sort of research do you want us to be doing? Other than some knowledge of magic and galactic culture, I'm not much of an academic." She looks embarrassed. "I spent much of my childhood surfing and doing other sports, too."

"I'm certain you will have the opportunity to gain a marker of your membership with time," responds Royo to Chance's initial query. "Ivoiveth had an extensive array of augmentations, the abilities of which I believe are still being studied today. I can't share all what I know, but I can tell you their other augmentations provided a large number of abilities including, but not limited to, enhanced senses, long-range communication, and physical endurance. They were all more advanced than anything within the Pact or Veskarium thus far."

Reaching an elevator and enters an access code. While waiting he addresses the concern about what your group may be required to do by declaring, "Chance, I suggest you are underestimating your talents even in fields of research. You will be helping sort through a vast amount of ancient physical media for any references to Ivoiveth in order to learn more about them, their activities, and their associates. A keen mind, an attentive eye, a cautious hand, or even an ample amount of patience are all useful tools here and elsewhere."

"Did we get anything from Datch about how they met? Did this elf identify Datch somehow as an enemy of the Society?

"Datch's information on Ivoiveth raised as many questions as it answered." The elevator opens up and Royo steps aboard. The takes position at the back as though leading a seminar as he continues to speak. "Ivoiveth was the one that approached Datch offering information on our organization for compensation. Datch herself claimed that she suspected that Ivoiveth, or the organization they worked for, was interested against the interests of the Starfinder Society, but not of their past affiliation with our organization. She was as surprised as any other when Iroiveth employed force to ensure we didn't take Datch alive."

Offering comfort, Royo addresses the wariness and caution by saying, "Norbert and Mizzrym, I'm grateful to have you here. I do not ascribe your lack of missions to a lack of talent and experience. Having a set of fresh eyes may very well be as critical as any other."

Based on my count and review, everyone is getting in.

Yes, this seems to be largely settled with you six as players. I'll have a signup sheet in the next day or so set up and I'm be getting the rest of the adventure ready as well in the next few days so we can be ready when OutPost starts in full force!

I do hope everyone had a wonderful time during this adventure. I really do like this adventure and hopefully you all had a great time playing this adventure.

I welcome any and all input you have on how I ran this so I can hopefully run it even better next time.

Tsuchi-ko responds to Wonder with thanks as she says, "I'm grateful for your aid as well. I'm grateful for your gift and being able to step forward to help make sure the concert was able to continue."

Wonder is just overjoyed with the praise and being able to talk personally with her idol. She is so happy that she details all what she did today including her, unknowing, involvement with the plot and her prior sneaking in before that, all with good intentions. That certainly presents a far less favorable, although accurate, depiction of Wonder's assistance. Still Tsuchi-ko offers her thanks, but does say that Wonder should wait for public meetups going forward.

Back within Lorespire Complex, Zivigix and Celita debrief you and finally thank you for your help for the event. They both reaffirm that your efforts were instrumental to the success of the event and inform you that each of you, cohorts included, would be getting complimentary tickets to the Drift Crisis Revue.

With that, just the next weekend, you are all welcomed back to the Ruby Theater for the Drift Crisis Revue. This time instead of working the event you are fully treated as VIP guests and get to enjoy all the food, drink, and entertainment the event has to offer. You also see both Faleen and Tsuchi-ko are present as well. With Triage's treatment and the prompt hospitalization she has had a full recovery.

The show has a staggering amount of talent on display that fills the crowd with energy and there is certainly a bit of the show to appeal to almost anyone. The night passes by quickly in a barrage of entertainment concluding with Abysshead taking stage and closing out the night with their metal performance.

As the lights come back on after Abysshead's pitch-black performance, Zigvigix and Celita approach the PCs, Zigvigix with characteristic enthusiasm and Celita looking surprisingly relaxed.

"This couldn't have happened without your help," Celita says. "Your hard work kept the Star Sugar Superstar!!! contest from ending in disaster, which would have irrevocably stained what the Society was trying to accomplish with this event."

"Yes!" Ziggy beams. "You helped make the Advocates' first big charity event a runaway success. We've collected lots of credits for the Drift Crisis Relief Fund. Not enough to help everyone who's suffered, but enough to make a difference in many lives."

A few stations manage to come into to report, but station security does their best to remove Lita and her crew without too much attention. After a stint on the cameras you are pulled away again to continue helping with the event, in this case, helping coordinate with the security and clean up on the backstage.

Wonder nods a bit anxiously, looking back toward the cheering theater, as she confirms that she was happy to help bring the people who would do harm to Tsuchi-ko to justice. Both station security and event security are keeping a close eye on her in case she ever believes she can slip back into the show.

Eventually the logistics are processed and Station Security leaves while thanking you for your help.

You return to the very end of the show and find that the crowd waits with bated breath as Lynthia hands Radat a closed envelope before returning to her seat at the judge's table.

"Well, folks, here it is," Radat says, waving the envelope in the air. "The reason you came out tonight. The one and only Star Sugar Superstar!!!"

The crowd cheers and Radat waits for the room to quiet again before continuing. "But first, did I ever tell you about my last vacation to Absalom Station? It's a really long and boring story..."

The audience boos and Radat holds his hands up in a placating gesture. "All right, all right! You've made your point. Without further ado... the extremely official and formal title of Star Sugar Superstar goes to... Sonic Tumult!" The crowd goes wild, cheering as the shocked and bewildered members of Sonic Tumult are led onstage to receive pink crowns shaped like frosted cakes.

The judges offer their congratulations once more to Sonic Tumult and commending them, and every one of the bands here, for their skill and talent. Sonic Tumult themselves are astonished and can only offer a brief thanks, but after a bit more set up they are back on stage again and play out the finale of the event. The underground rockband plays their hearts out to the roar of the crowd and brings the event to a climatic finish.

Just a bit later the crowd filters out of the theater and the cleaning crews get to work. Amid the bustle of staff moving about to clean out the arena Tsuchi-ko stops to speak with you.

"I haven't had a chance to thank you for everything you've done," she says. "In the grand scheme of things, it might not seem like a concert is that important, but we brought so many people together today, and your actions saved it from disaster. You helped spread love and joy in a time when we desperately need as much of it as we can get. It's a tragedy that someone who was supposed to be sharing her joy and good energy with people was so twisted on the inside, but..." her gaze shifts to where the members of Sonic Tumult are being congratulated by several other contestants, "there's going to be plenty of people ready to fill the space Lita Starr leaves behind."

Back within the forest Fluff Fang does their best to support and share with the others leshies, both new and old. They do all they can to allow others to turn over a new leaf and find new fertile ground for their futures.

Fluff Fang is immensely grateful for such a wonderful end to a story because of how many new stories are just beginning.

Orgo isn't able to avoid the blow as the blow knocks back the uplifted bear a few inches. "You are correct though."

"I'm even smarter than the common brethren because, unlike you, I know when to take a deal, the value of a payday, and how to crack open your exoskeleton."

He draws out his heavy night-black hammer out and twists the handles. The hammer head thrums with an electric energy that arcs out in blue hues across the surface.

With a roar he swings the hammer head at Ikmanji in an attempt to overpower the vanguard in one massive swing!

Orgo Storm Hammer: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (10) + 12 = 22
Bludgeoning and Electric Damage: 1d8 + 11 ⇒ (7) + 11 = 18

He swing the hammer wide and it crashes into the brutal blow of force and electric energy.

18 damage to Ikmanji

Round 2
Crowd
Ikmanji (22/40 SP)
Orgo [Blue] (9 damage)
Triage
Jek
I-apvii (4/33 SP)
Djakar
Omo [Red] (20 damage, Get 'Em +1 to hit)

Triage, Jek, I-apvii, and Djakar are up!

The crowd begins to shift as the group produces evidence about the planted charge shifters and that Omo was spotted planting them.

Hearing I-apvii, Liraeus speaks up as per admit, "yeah! I saw Omo plant that device up there." Per hands shake in mimicry of Liraeus's shaky voice. "I was too scared to mention it before."

The lead singer of Monster Generation snarls a bit as she declares, "I thought you were just being a bloody taskmaster, but your manager has just been running about the show. I saw her with a medkit and didn't think anything of it, but she hid it away like she didn't want me seeing it!"

Wonder seems to be mostly grasping the situation as she points to Karalie and adds, "And, and, like, you said you were delivering cupcakes from a super-rich anonymous fan, but any real fan would would know that Tsuchi-ko loves variety packs over single flavors!"

During this opportunity for a short rest, the party has a better chance to get acquainted with the charge shifters and search them for any trace evidence. Triage and Djakar are able to pick up glitter stuck to the charge shifter of the same type that Lita Starr is wearing.

Without looking into it too deep, I believe the pricing on the sheet for diplomat's badge is in error.

I've sent out revised chronicle sheets out to everyone with your achievements marked and the correct amount of reputation. I still leave your day job income to you.

Zendel critically succeeds on the check with Known Weakness. Everyone gets +1 circumstance bonus to attack Red for this round.

Zendel, just confirming, that +1 on that attack is from your magic weapon, right?

Zendel confirms for certain these are a pair of weretigers. Lycanthropes who have normal humanoid forms, but can take on aspects of the tiger in fully animal or hybrid forms. They are strongest during the full moon with the curse that transforms them into this cruel form is strongest and they are able to pass on this curse through their bite. Weretigers have a vulnerability to silver weaponry and a comparatively weak will to their other strengths. They fight exclusively in melee, leveraging any chance to grab hold of their prey and take an attack of opportunity.

With his insight, Zendel is able to line up his shot just well enough to land a critical hit into the monster's chest. The weretiger is able to avoid the second arrow however.

Buffs: Inspire Defense (+1 AC, +1 Saving Throws, resist 1 physical)
Round 1
Arfsnarf
KaLang
Zendel
Weretigers Cat-People
. [Red] (party gets +1 circ. to attack, 23 damage)
. [Blue]
Cat [Green]
Salaish
Zhamie
Ra'uf

Arfsnarf and KaLang are up.

Henecahual stares at Salaish as she rails into her. Henecahual shifts her spear to brace her weight moves away from the tree, using the weapon as an impromptu walking stick. "You have a far grander view of the fire I have left in me if you think I can still fight, but it seems like you have enough to spare for me. It seems my view of you was off as well and may have more strength than I offered."

Salaish gets a critical success.

Watching Arfsnarf's clacky rock with interest she watches the results. "I had already accepted what I felt was fated, that I would never see or learn about my people. It seems as though your scrying divines another fate for me." She nods along as she moves forward toward your group.

Arfsnarf gets a critical success.

"I accept your aid and direction." She finds the strength to move with your group as she tells you, "there were three in total. A pair of the cruel tiger-people and an animal that followed them. I couldn't safely work my magic within reach of their claws and they were able to use their strength and size to fling me about like a toy."

Given the darkness right now, what light sources do you have out?

KaLang has earned a hero point from both this and the prior battle for being instrumental in following the trail, holding off the cinder rat for so long, and taking an attack from the spirit so Ra'uf could approach safely.

Zhamie checks the trails and finds the group is safe for the moment.

She hakes her head and winces from the sudden movement. "I have already given up on reaching Port Valen. As the night fell I was given a premonition of the 'cat-persons' attacking others by Cihua Couatl. I steps forward to change their fate, to draw the attention away from others so they may pass safely."

Her resolve remains firm despite her showing extreme fatigue. "My body is exhausted as well as my magic. I would be nothing, but a burden to you. I knew the price I might pay and I'm not willing for any of you to take that burden."

[ooc]You each try to convince her to return with you by making skill checks. You can use Cihua Couatl Lore, Diplomacy, Fortune-Telling Lore, Religion, or Society. These are not secret checks. Gossip Lore can be used as well.

The crowd responds positively with 'ooo's, and 'ahh's and chittering of recognition as the crowd listens to I-apvii's overview on the history of musical competitions. There is applause as old favorite bands are brought up and support when images of musical celebrities that have passed are displayed. The presentation ends with applause with no doubt some of that devoted to Triage's excellent work helming the projector and the images within.

This energy builds into the high emotion that Djakar brings with the history of the theater. The staff can't help but pause to watch, with many holding back tearful nods as talks about Bargai. Practically all of them have been supported by the All Hands and Bargai in some way. They applaud when Djakar puts so much recognition to her efforts and the front stage.

Historia-Prime has no fans among the crowd and easily draws boos and jeers. But people seeing Ruby's works for the first time draws gasps and amazement. The crowd turns their full support as they applaud the efforts of your group coming to aid her and then again in adoration for her works.

Ikmanji struggles a bit getting stage props around with the quickly changing acts, but there are a few cheers from the crowd encouraging his work.

As the applause dies down, Radat presents Jek's act as instructed, but with a bit more flair. The musical display draws the crowd responding to the music with calls back. As it conclude the crowd cheers and there is a standing ovation from the judges and crowd for your display of skill.

As you step of stage Radat calls out the crowd and shifts into the next intermission.

"That is most definitely not a heroic gesture Summer. Still I can't chastise you hard given the tribulations you had been dealt." Fluff Fang checks on the safety of Summer before turning to other matters.

Fluff Fang joins with Jackpot in casting a healing spell to tend the damage dealt to leshies they were battling a minute ago.

Soothe: 2d10 + 8 ⇒ (2, 8) + 8 = 18

Being more careful of tossing their cape recklessly with Summer, "as my friend said, we don't come for you or you home, just to rescue our friends. You were always free to tell and share your stories, but not to take those of others."

"If you want entertainers, then there are plenty to take on that role, but your manor is already among the most exemplary of the land, especially those I've seen. However, leshies are free to choose their own roles in life; we can take upon any role and more. It is a sad spectacle to see other cast to roles as mere servants or decorations."

Operating quickly the concessions is presenting a new snack in the form of a sweet, bright green and sparkly taffy.

"Presenting a sugary surprise,"
"A display from the stage we reprise!"
"Giving sweet airdrop from orbit,"

The pause is interrupted by Keeji, who is busy improvising the new menu item.
"You won't find this in any market?"

With a new outfit and a new headset, Radat is back on stage and the judges are also returning to their seats.

* * * *

"Welcome back to Star Sugar Superstar," calls out Radat. He gives a glance around in a few directions before giving a smile to the crowd. "Can never be too careful. Anything can happen tonight." He gestures with a toothy grin.

"Our next performer likely is topping the bulk limits of our dressing rooms. You better get ready for the metal coming from 'Mecha-Crash'!"

The next band is on stage as a trio all in suits of powered armor with two on guitar an done with a massive drumkit. They are heavy metal band with their drums at the core of their songs. The drummer makes heavy use of many cymbals on their rig. The high speed giving to constant crashes that rage over the low vocals.

The music thrums through the air and much of the crowd is enjoying it. As the guitar-laden crescendo of the song arrives it seems as though the energy flowing through the power armor might be second to that of their fans.

You notice that a group of fans are trying to press on stage. If they succeed they will bring the performance to a crashing halt.

What does the party do?

Everyone can attempt to dissuade the party verbally or physically.

You can try to dissuade the group with Intimidate.

You cna also physically stop them with Athletics, or a combat maneuver (grapple, reposition, trip) if that is preferable.

Also confirming on Arfsnarf, the reason I was calling it out was just because you seemed to be out of 3rd level spell slots for the 3rd level magic missile.

@GM Blazej: Is Salaish frightened 2? Your notes beside our rolls show that she rolled a success.

She is not frightened.

That was on my notes because I originally did the saves without your inspire defense bonus. I corrected the rolls, but forgot to change the tracker.

I-apvii is able to scan the backstage, but doesn't see the unique helmet standing out especially with some of the band's equipment. The variety of costumes and instruments like Mecha-Crash's power armor or Celine Machine's kit-bashed instruments all grab attention, but the helmet isn't set out in an obvious spot.

Same for Ikmanji, no one stands out and it isn't in an easy to access hiding spot. It could very well be hidden the catwalk as it would be difficult to impossible to see it from the ground.

Uku nods to Jek as she indicates that she understands what Jek is getting at and runs off while they can continue searching. This gives them a few more minutes of searching and, Jek catches sight of what seems to be K1ng Ch0rd's visor. It was buried underneath a mess of cabling.

While Jek attempts to look busy while watching the people passing by, both Jek and Djakar notice the unabashed Radat Sendu (Picture) hopping down the backstage with particularly pleased grin on his face. He already seem to be made up for the event, his nails painted and his paper talisman painted with a fresh neon script.

He takes moments to call out to staff and band members along the way, "I love your style, it just kills me! Haha!"

Gesturing across the area he calls out to Jek, "ordering pizza? I'll have mine with no garlic! Ha! I kid, I kid! Love garlic!"

And he reacts to Uku running right underfoot a she searches the backstage for a wrench. "Woah there! Got to slow down, watch your head! Hahaha!" He has a huge laugh as he partially explains, "yeah, just thought of a joke, I'll share it later!"

It is apparent to Jek that Radat is up to something.

Once more free, Fluff Fang gives a quick blessing to heal the injured Chef Popcorn with a poem about perseverance.

Casting Soothe on Chef Popcorn.
Soothe (2nd level) - Healing: 2d10 + 8 ⇒ (7, 2) + 8 = 17

The short interlude over, Fluff Fang steps into the conversation with Bamboo as they declare, "gratitude? Certainly have gratitude, but that doesn't mean you need to follow their commands. We are all free spirits and can see for ourselves how we can support out kin, the land around us, and country!"

Fluff Fang goes forward toward the table and the other trapped leshy while trying to straighten the cloak. "We can achieve more learning from those before us, but not if we live with our heads bowed to the ground!"

Cast 2nd level Soothe, stride toward bottled leshy.

Thank you, I've added that tracker to one of the pages. I might go back another time and see about adjusting it for another game, but for now I think I have everyone's hero points correct for the various number of hero points that have gone out.

I believe only KaLang, Zendel, and Arfsnarf have used a hero point.

The first few attempts give issues for Triage as Karalie shakes her head saying, "not enough of a swirl, not enough enthusiasm to match Lita." The next attempt she shakes her head even more declaring, "too much of a curl, it the signature look too desperate to please."

With guidance from Djakar though, Triage starts getting the hang of it. After the next few it becomes natural and over the next ten minutes the party produces a slew of signed headshots that are all placed on top of the large pile.

A few from inspections from Karalie grants her approval announcing, "this should be enough for the event. Lita, they are all complete."

Lita enthusiastically smiles and grabs a handful from the top of the pile. "Perfect! Thank you for all your help! Please take this as a token of my appretiation!" She then hands each of you in the room one of the freshly autographed photos, completely ignoring the fact that Jek already left. Turning to Djakar Lita adds, "oh, and I'll be sure to have Karalie schedule a star-filled time for us to have a proper interview. I think there will be time after this contest is all over for me to give you all my thoughts! I will be looking forward to it!"

With that you are given leave and Lita is in both a good mood for the event and she likely as a more positive view of you all going forward. Next you can find more tasks to settle elsewhere.

Earlier

Ikmanji asks PKtesh

Unwilling to cede the moment to converstation, Pktash focuses on her datapad as she answers, "the should have all been removed. Following the data scourge, safety inspectors strongly disfavor automated defense systems, even nonlethal."

Dismissively waving toward the backstage Pktash adds to Ikmanji's second comment to say, "those frivolous rooms are still in place, broken up in places to make for more individual spaces. There were more critical, public facing areas, to focus on during refurbishing.

Yellow Will Save: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (4) + 7 = 11

"It's you..." The wooden creature's mouth turns from a grin and opens wide, the branches snaps the face contorts into utter and complete panic. "you, you found me in the waking world! No! AAAH!" It immediately begins to turn and flee as fast as it is able.

Yellow is frightened 3 and fleeing.

Zendel, your investigation was good, I do feel your deduction that this was related to your case to be good. However, these attackers do not work along with the gremlins. You can keep your turn as is though because of your reasonable assumptions and logic, but later turns you will need to spend an action to devise a stratagem. I will reaffirm what Zendel said though and ask what Zhamie's case might be as it can be boon in both exploration and potentially combats; and they are easy to add to.

Zhamie's and Zendel's blows both connect, snapping some of the twigs on each of the wooden attackers, but not driving them off.

Zendel identifies the foliage stalker as a lurking fey that dwells within the wilderness up to the edge where cities. It is a grimstalker, a fey that thrives in the role hunting down any intruder into the wilds to reaffirm that the areas beyond civilization are a dangerous place unwelcome to others. They are solitary killers by nature and have little to no respect for other fey and even barely tolerate other grimstalkers.

Arfsnarf has already revealed the grimstalker's biggest frailty as their fortitude is not a match for the other defenses. Grimstalkers are also vulnerable to cold iron, but they do not have any other inherent weaknesses.

As Zendel studies the grimstalker more, it seems clear to him that the grimstalker isn't even acknowledging the branch-bundle fey. It does not ally with them or the gremlins and sees them as weak, pathetic, cowards.

* * *

The grimstalker finishes it's curse of Viltydus and follows with a haunted words and curses that way heavy in the air in a language some might recognize as Aklo. Salaish's impression is that the stalker knows of Viltydus and regards them as even more distain than you.

The fey focuses on Zendel though with a pair of swings to try to dispatch the gnomes.

Grimstalker Attack vs Zendel: 1d20 + 15 ⇒ (2) + 15 = 17
Slashing Damage: 2d6 + 7 ⇒ (5, 3) + 7 = 15

Grimstalker Attack vs Zendel: 1d20 + 15 - 4 ⇒ (4) + 15 - 4 = 15
Slashing Damage: 2d6 + 7 ⇒ (3, 1) + 7 = 11

Neither manage to connect and that drives it even further into fury.

Buffs:
Inspire Courage: everyone gets a +1 status bonus to attack rolls, damage rolls, and saves against fear effects until middle of round 5
Round 2
Foliage Stalker Grimstalker [Green] (slowed until Arfsnarf's turn on round 11)
Ra'uf Steelwheels (9 damage, -10 feet speed)
Arfsnarf (12 damage)
Salaish
Branch Fey [Red, Blue]
. [Yellow] (19 damage)
. [Red] (3 damage)
Zhamie (6 damage)
KaLang (-10 feet speed)
Zendel (12 damage)

If you are in a plant filled area in the grassy circle, you will still need to make the DC 22 Reflex save vs the entangle at the start of your turn. KaLang will not need to make it since the plants do not reach into the water.

Ra'uf, Arfsnarf, Salaish are able to act.

Ziggy is delighted to answer, Tsuchi-ko is Strawberry Machine Cake's bass player! She wears her frilly dress and leaps about the stage with enough energy to power Abasalom Station! They spin around as they mime playing a guitar.

Meanwhile Celita pulls up a picture of Tsuchi-ko. She is a cobra headed girl wearing a pink-and-red lolita-fashion and a large red ribbon. She also states, "while CAPTAIN★CARMINE is on station as well, there was a desire to have judges come from a wide variety of musicians from the industry." Celita clearly makes a minor point of clarifying the pronunciation of the other member of Strawberry Machine Cake.

They hold their arms out to KaLang's question as though the answer was apparent, "you would expect a blacksmith to know her metals, or a shipwright to know his timbers, no?"

Holding a hand to themselves they explain, "my trade is in adventure and heroism, so naturally I must know how to recognize the significance of those whose paths I cross." They finish a gesture to you all. "Although I can see them as clear as a cloudless day, I invite you to offer your own introduction, especially if you feel I omitted a major detail of yourselves."

With a nod to Zendel, Viltydus affirms, "your perception is accurate, I am Viltyus. I am pleased to make your acquaintance although I do not believe you will meet more of my kind. I know of others through rumor even then their purposes are not my own. I consider those who seek to travel this forest as my charge and people more than any other."

"And that draws to the matter of the nature of the requests. My primary purpose is not to test you and your skills. Those are evident by the challenges you have already overcome. I wish you to aid me in my purpose in fostering and aiding heroes now and yet to be, in particular areas beyond where I can tread as well as areas outside my abilities." Gesturing to both the forest and then to the town they conclude, "so the tasks will be to inspire and aid the heroes of the town as well as safeguard them against the dangers of the forest."

Hello!

So since I’m bringing a Magus, I need to know how you wish to handle Arcane Cascade stance.

I would be handling the Arcane Cascade stance using the most permissive interpretation you listed to ignore the requirement once you have entered stance.

GM, how do you want to handle my Known Weakness feat?

I would be fine with you rolling your own Known Weakness check in combat like you normally do. Given the number of checks it will make, this seems like my preferred way to keep combat moving.

I'm looking forward to running for Salaish!

Fluff Fang struggles to escape the hold of Mint. In the back of their mind they have been able to push away the crushing fear as they hold their breath and continue trying to punch a hole through the prevalent perennial.

However, as they hear the calls and cries of battle and the back and forth between the fighting flora, at the forefront and drive at Fluff Fang's swings is that they are missing all the plot development on this story!

Rapier vs Mint, Inspire Courage?: 1d20 + 7 + 1 ⇒ (13) + 7 + 1 = 21
Piercing Damage, Inspire Courage?: 1d6 + 1 + 1 ⇒ (3) + 1 + 1 = 5

Escape Attempt, Unarmed Attack, Inspire Courage?, MAP: 1d20 + 7 + 1 - 5 ⇒ (16) + 7 + 1 - 5 = 19

They stab forward with the rapier and attempt to push their way through in the wake of their attack.

Reflex: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (7) + 9 = 16

As the leaves begin so surround Fluff Fang, they try to push further back to avoid missing a beat in this story.

Hero Point Reflex: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (6) + 9 = 15

They aren't able to break free of the narrative's grasp as they vanish into the mass of mint.

Fluff Fang struggles to escape but finds the greenery to be seemingly endless. Drawing their rapier to hand they hold their breath as they try to pierce through the veil of vegetation.

Included inspire courage if I can hear Jackpot's blitz ballad.

Rapier vs Mint, Inspire Courage?: 1d20 + 7 + 1 ⇒ (17) + 7 + 1 = 25
Piercing Damage, Inspire Courage?: 1d6 + 1 + 1 ⇒ (3) + 1 + 1 = 5

Deadly if Crit: 1d8 ⇒ 1

Slowed 1, draw rapier and attack.

Glancing at the crowd Fluff Fang thinks for a moment as they give a cast back their cape with a flutter. "Well I would not describe them so lightly my prestigious Lady." Gesturing to the tables Fluff Fang note, "their capabilities may yet surpass your expectations. Like anything else they just need the right resources, encouragement, and of course, opportunity to step forward and flourish."

Fluff Fang gestures at the tables to covertly deliver their impressions of the guests and chance they may be willing to aid covertly.

Heading to the table without a leshy, Fluff Fang says, "this looks to be a excellent place to start as this table feels so austere so lacking a centerpiece an so set apart from the flourishing gardens that surround. If they watch the expert performance before them, they must miss the beauty of the curated flora that are just behind their backs as well as being too far away to savor the fragrant scents that come from long and far away." Fluff Fang goes around the table making dramatic motions at they gesture from one side of the garden to another.

They head to the garden's edge as they get close to the exotic flowers and closely point to several of the flowers as they try to draw attention to the far side from the garden away from the two leshy filled tables.

"I've known these leshies to travel the forest my honorable Lady. You well have performed the presentation, but these poor things are not your creation. There is artistry in what you do, and they well may have played their part in your work if you asked, but the prisons of glass make a very poor display my wonderful Lady."

Fluff Fang says this as they toss their cape back and present to the crowd as much as Constance.

Feeling out of place amid this negotations, Naitier lets those with a few more years of experience to hold the Society's position well.

Naitier relieved to be back on station up until seeing the bouncers blocking the way.

Sense Motive, untrained: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (20) + 3 = 23

They are taken a bit aback by Triage's suggestion. "I... well... I will admit that the cultures admit the Pact Worlds themselves are varied much less those from the Veskarium. I was shocked as to how many greeted me on my arrival by lowering their head." Naitier pauses a bit as they straighten their posture, "it felt like so many were ready for a fight."

Glancing at the array of vesk bouncers, Naitier nods with affirmation toward Valodet's suggestion. "Maybe we could put off the duel to the death challenges. Maybe giving them respect while presenting strength? It is hopeful that there may have been a cancellation that we could take the place of if they felt we were worthy. Maybe if we are lucky the Pathfinder Society has provided aid to them in the recent past. At the least not left a negative impression as it has on several others in this system."

Joining with the others Fluff Fang adds, "absolutely. While your skills at party-craft are certainly unmatched in their field, it would be a travesty to turn down the skill of a skilled florist and we are by certain the best."

Fluff Fang gives a bow as they affirm, "anyone who claims otherwise is a mere posy poser."

With a flit of their cape they say, "those pieces are far too small for a glorious gala like the one you are portraying. To leave now having seen them would be a travesty upon my spirit and I could certainly not allow it. Replacing them with flourishing flora of fabulous fragrances would delight all and properly portray your parties."

Deception: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (6) + 9 = 15

Fluff Fang also has Harmlessly Cute and Shameless Request.

"This feels much unlike the cities I've shared with you myself. The streets I have traversed in my various missions were more akin to Petalbrook." Fluff Fang thinks on this a bit as they give a wavering of their hand as they consider. "Maybe with a few less flowers and twice as many bricks."

"I felt a hand more comfortable when we were creating such attention.
That might just be because I appreciate an audience."

Fluff Fang leans one way then the other as they try to get a good angle on the hedge wall and the others as they approach. "I have some experience in gaining access in places where I wasn't necessarily welcome, a number that I hope has decreased over the years but those lessons may prove themselves now."

Giving a bit of a bow as they step forward Fluff Fang says, "if you allow me to take the spotlight for a moment. I might at least gauge the strength of their locks"

Pulling a set of lockpicks, Fluff Fang searches the area carefully as they examine the gate before clamboring onto the hedges to get better access to the gate's mechanisms.

Theivery to Pick a Lock: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (16) + 7 = 23

Research Rat whispers to Naitier, "You know what I think a happy ending would be? A raise, that's what!"

"If I was in a position of power, I would make that happen for you and many more."

Naitier pulls back a bit as they add, "I can at least be satisfied with this for now as we work toward that."

Going forward Naitier returns back to the Spike at Absalom Station to help spend their off days providing aid to those that there. They also offer to send various messages to Avid Dreamer especially putting them in contact for other novels and stories they have enjoyed.

Naitier does what they are able to help with investigating the engines as they silently ponder the logs and descriptions of Avid Dreamer.

Engineering: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (17) + 6 = 23

"My world had descriptions of artificial intelligences losing control, but many things my world have taught have felt more and more misguided and fearful given the time I've spent in the Pact Worlds." Naitier steps away from the engines as they head toward the bridge with the others, "broadening beyond what I was taught in the years since I came together, it seems clear life is diverse and varied. Your dreams and thoughts are no less possible or important than those of anyone. I want to make certain we do all we can to help you. I rather you continue to grow Avid Dreamer."

"I will admit that my world has none akin to your own." Naitier pauses for a moment as they organize their thoughts. "You seem to be an intelligence born of technology. I've seen more within the Pact Worlds, but none as newly awakened as your own. I want to make sure to help you. I don't wish to leave you alone as I fear letting you be within the darkness between stars."

"It has been several days, but I believe the original message might from this ship used that name, Avid Dreamer." Naitier looks around at the ship as they take in the scene before adding, "their mechanical nature seemed apparent with the way they spoke following our entry, but I was still assuming they were the pilot. My world does not have any creatures with notable artificial intelligence, so I didn't realize what forms they could take. With the number of androids, holograms, and robots, I had begun to limit my thoughts to imagine them as humanoid in their limits. It seems like, much like my grasp of the nature of stellar forces, I am far out of my depth. Avid Dreamer is the starship we are currently walking through?"

"I hope you have learned not to steal away from the forest. Usually the stories go the other way, but still turn out for the same ill consequences. Hopefully you learn and know that there is a lovely community around you to join with and not worry about invitations to posh parties packed with political posturing."

Fluff Fang joins the others in heading out as they concur, "it is tempting to end this now, but a rest would be helpful. Especially given the journey we need to make to get to the manor. Walking in with our leaves, stems, and roots worn out from our race forward."

In town Fluff Fang might want to take a few hours to ask around about Lady Constance Meliosa, possibly to learn more about her and the sort of party she is pulling with trained Dipomacy at +9.

"The story has taken a sudden twist. I thought we were at the end of the tale, but we are bound for another act."

Fluff Fang nods with agreement of the others in the group as they toss back their cape and declare, "it seems our friends are in another manor. Let's continue there and see if we can return them safely!"

"I would like to discuss this more as well. We should be avoiding destructive options. My tools are limited though. At the least I can see about removing these cannons to give us the chance to learn more."

Focusing a blast of force, Naitier casts another spell trying to break the nearest of the turrets.

Casting Soul Surge targeting Red
Attack vs EAC: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (9) + 5 = 14
Piercing Force Damage: 3d8 ⇒ (4, 2, 3) = 9

Afterwards a fiery aura formed from the magic shields Naitier.

Causes 3 HP damage to self.

"Well I'm sorry for Hammer and Dragonfly. Still we fight to save our friends and hope you can help us. You can tell Jackpot and the others are very much broken up about this. I would like this to be a happier sort of tale." Fluff Fang pulls their cowl close as the keep near Darius and Jackpot.

"I'm sure things can be brought better again if you help us. Where does Lady Constance reside? Do you know why she couldn't just send an invitation into the woods for them to join?"

"We should continue to be wary. I was not expecting the controller of this ship to be as intelligent, or frightened as they appear. Given the bleakness and emptiness around us, I would rather lead them to the light then stumble through their fears.

Perception: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (13) + 12 = 25
Survival: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (8) + 3 = 11

The noise across the ship gets Naitier's full attention, their polyps nervously seeking within their armor. Focused on the distance Naitier asks, "did we get any records of the manifest that would say that the ship was transporting living creatures?"

"Automation to this scale is impressive, but I admit I am more considerate of the issues of the laborers."

Naitier mulls this over just a moment before admitting, "even still, there are more reasons to provide assistance rather than deny them. If we were the ones to get this message, then there is likely a reason for us to be the ones to respond."

"Given the time it takes for them to respond, it would seem wise to accept the offer and request information now while we head toward the damaged vessel. Delaying our travel to that ship may be cause more issues."