Waiting was something that Ciandria was accustomed to doing. She had spent many hours of late doing just that. It was all so very frustrating. It rankled Ciandria from the tip of her conical head to the soles of her feet. She was a person of action. Needless to say all of the waiting was like torture to her core being.
It was a relief to the young Kasatha woman when she got an alert on her comm unit about the impending arrival of the Sunrise Maiden. Finally! Maybe now there might be something of interest to follow up on instead of so many recent dead ends. There was the slightest of smiles behind the traditional veil that Ciandria wore while in public. She walked quickly with a bit of pep in her step. As the woman walked she clasped two of her lower hands before her draped over her traditional microcord armor. The armor was a very dark green color that almost looked black with a silver piping along many of the seams. "Well met crew of the Sunrise Maiden! I'm Ciandria Sol. I've been working with a mutual acquaintance here on Eox, I think you are aware of a miss Waneda Trux. I believe we have much to discuss but perhaps somewhere a bit more private?"
__________________
Status: Just a little behind! I hope to catch up very soon.
Congratulations to my Georgia Bulldogs! Back to back!!!
#OneRaceHuman #OnlyLoveDefeatsHate
Last edited by ricktur63; Mar 25th, 2023 at 10:57 PM.
Tweak has been tracking down Grix for several days, but luckily a contact from the Starfinder's Society had some information on where she would be heading. Of all places, he was going to Eox. Tweak was no stranger to Eox, but he usually just salvaged ship parts from the countless floating debris and seldomly ever went down to the planet itself. He was hungry while he was waiting at what passes as a food court, but something about seeing flesh and blood being served at the same time just kind of, well, caused him to loose his appetite. The whole planet just felt off. But then he finally saw his favorite cousin and couldn't help himself. He started running through the crowd yelling her name, "Grix!"
Hearing her name, Grix turned around to find the source. While she was looking, the voice sounded very familiar. As soon as she figured out where she heard that voice, she called out in a questioning tone, "Tweak?" As the little nerdy Ysoki came running up, he gave Grix a big hug. Grix just smiled as the reunion was like getting a little bit of home coming to her. "I never thought I would have seen you any place other than the engine room of the Coriolis. What in the world are you doing all the way out here, on Eox of all places?"
After their friendly embrace, Tweak looked at Grix and his smile quickly disappeared. "It's your farther. He is not doing too well. I came to find you and let you know you need to go back home." After a short pause, Tweak added, "Please, let me know if there is anything I can do to help you."
It took a few moments to fully digest what her cousin just said. After processing, the operative training in her jumped in and she started rambling out what needed to happen. "First, thank you for coming. I know it must have been hard for you to come out in public. Second, my team just lost their engineer and they will need a new one. Can you stay and help them out? Third, I need a ship."
Tweak was prepared for Grix's response and responded to her comments in rapid succession. "You know I would do anything for you, cuz. You would have done the same for me. Yes, I was actually considering getting some work. I need to make some money to buy a new personal upgrade, but you don't need to hear about that. But you can take my ship. It is at the dock and ready to go. Since I will be joining your team, I will not need a ship. It is not much to look at, but it is fast; very fast."
Grix gave Tweak another hug and a friendly kiss on the cheek, "Thanks hun. You are the best. I know I am leaving these guys in good hands. I will send a message when I get there to let you know what is happening." As she started to head to the dock, as an afterthought, she turned to the others and said, "Something has come up guys. I need to go, but my cousin Tweak is the best engineer in the galaxy. He will be taking my spot and I know he will take good care of you guys. You can trust him. Wish I could stay longer, but gotta go. Toddles."
And just like that, Grix was gone. Realizing that Grix hadn't really introduced the others to him, he gave a nervous smile and shyly said, "Uh, hi. I'm Tweak."
The journey to Eox passed slower than Matsu would have expected. Things weighted upon him now. Time being one of them. It felt as though the enemy was always one step ahead. Although on this occasion, perhaps that wasn't quite so true.
He passed the time training with Vette and studying Grix's piloting techniques. He'd picked up on that gastly planet a lot of remewmberd things about trecking and carrying, and put some training in to keep the skills alive. But mostly he rested.
On the dock, Matsu was assulted byu new information. Eox was the last place he expected to find new team mates. And Grix's typical, faster than lightning decision making left him bewlidered as usual. He greated both Tweak, and Ciandria poiltely, if somewhat gravely.
"Yes, someplace private to talk would be good. We are looking for the person of whom you speak."
Matsu Soryn
Male lashunta (korasha) mercenary soldier 6
LN Medium humanoid (lashunta) Init +8; Senses Perception +6 Hero Points: 1
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DEFENSE
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ EAC 17; KAC 19 You can easily move past dangerous foes You gain a +4 bonus to your armor class against attacks of opportunity that you provoke by leaving a threatened squareMobility SP 60 {60} HP 46 {46} RP 7 {7} DR: 1/- No need to breathe, +4 bonus to Fortitude saving throws to avoid taking damage from hot or cold environments, to withstand the harmful effects of thick and thin atmospheres, to avoid choking when breathing in heavy smoke, and to avoid fatigue caused by sleep deprivation.Fort +7, Ref +6, Will +5
_________________________________________________
OFFENSE
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ Speed Walk 30' Melee baton, tactical +10 (1d4+5 , critical -; Analog.operative) Ranged rail cannon, tactical +11 (1d10+6, critical Bleed 1d4; Line, unwieldy) 4/4 Ranged reaction cannon, light +11 (WS gives +3 (level) Bullet Barrage +1 to projectile weapons1d10+6, critical -; Penetrating) 6{6} Ranged laser pistol, azimuth +10 (1d4+3, critical Burn 1d4; -) Ranged frag grenade i +8 (1d6, critical ; DC 14, Explode (1d6 P, 15 ft.)) Ranged holy water grenade i +8 (, critical ; Explode (2d6 B, holy water, 20 ft.)) Ranged ice carbine, subzero +10 (1d8+6, critical -; Automatic) Ranged artillery laser, azimuth +11 (1d10+6, critical Burn 1d6; Penetrating)
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STATISTICS
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ Str 15, Dex 18, Con 14, Int 12, Wis 10, Cha 12, Base Atk +6; Grp+8 Feats Coordinated Shot, Improved Initiative, Mobility, Quick Draw, Toughness, Weapon Focus (Weapon Focus ~ Heavy Weapons) Skills Acrobatics +7, Engineering +7, Intimidate +9, Medicine +5, Perception +6, Piloting +9, Stealth +7, Survival +13, Languages Castrovelian, Common, Eoxian Combat Gear field ration (per week), Other Gear rail cannon, tactical, ag trooper battle dress, aeon stone (iridescent spindle), cred stick (2), rounds, heavy, explosive rounds, heavy, laser pistol, azimuth, baton, tactical, frag grenade i, holy water grenade i, backpack (industrial), reaction cannon, light, ice carbine, subzero, artillery laser, azimuth, 171.0 gp
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SPECIAL ABILITIES
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ RACIAL TRAITS Lashuntas are medium humanoids with the lashunta subtypeSize And Type All lashuntas gain +2 charisma at character creation. Korasha lashuntas are muscular (+2 strength at character creation) but often brash and unobservant (-2 wisdom at character creation). Damaya lashuntas are typically clever and well-spoken (+2 intelligence at character creation) but somewhat delicate (-2 constitution at character creation)Dimorphic Lashuntas gain the following spell-like abilities: at will: daze, psychokinetic hand 1/day: detect thoughts see spell-like abilities on page 262. The caster level for these effects is equal to the lashunta's levelLashunta Magic Lashuntas can mentally communicate with any creatures within 30 feet with whom they share a language. Conversing telepathically with multiple creatures simultaneously is just as difficult as listening to multiple people speakingLimited Telepathy Lashuntas love to learn, and they receive a +2 racial bonus to any two skills of their choiceStudent
THEME BENEFITS Whether you take jobs that match your ethical beliefs or you fight for anyone who can afford your services, you are a hired gun. You might take pride in your past accomplishments, proudly displaying trophies of your kills, or you might be laden with guilt over being the sole survivor of a mission gone terribly wrong. You most likely work with other mercenaries and are familiar with the methodologies of military actions all across the galaxyMercenary You are knowledgeable about the military, from rival mercenary groups to standard military procedures to planetary armed forces, and you can draw upon this fount of information to aid your adventurous pursuits. Reduce the dc of culture checks and profession (mercenary) checks to recall knowledge about hierarchies, practices, personnel, and so on in the military by 5. Athletics is a class skill for you, though if it is a class skill from the class you take at 1st level, you instead gain a +1 bonus to athletics checks. In addition, you gain an ability adjustment of +1 to strength at character creationTheme Knowledge You're used to long marches while carrying heavy equipment and can hoist most machinery with ease. Treat your strength as 1 higher for the purpose of determining your bulk limit (see page 167)Grunt CLASS FEATURES: You have a preferred fighting style that represents the type of soldier you are. Each fighting style is composed of various style techniques that you learn as you gain experience. You must pick one fighting style upon taking your first soldier level, and once made, this choice cannot be changed. Descriptions of the fighting styles you can choose from appear on pages 112-115Primary Fighting Style The bombard fighting style emphasizes attacking multiple targets, often using grenades, and leverages substantial physical strength to control large weapons with significant recoil. At higher levels, you can use launchers, missiles, and other heavy weaponsBombard At 1st level and every 4 levels thereafter, you gain a style technique unique to your primary fighting stylePrimary Style Technique You increase the range increment of your thrown grenades by 5 x your strength bonus. In addition, you're able to salvage enough materials to create a grenade without paying for it. Creating a grenade takes 10 minutes. You can create any grenade whose item level is less than or equal to your soldier level, but this grenade is unstable and only you can use it effectively. If anyone else tries to use the grenade, it is a dud. You can have only one grenade created by this ability at one time (if you create a new grenade using this ability, the old grenade no longer works)Grenade Expert You can use your physical power to steady your weapon and make your attacks more dangerous. As a full action, you can make a single ranged attack that deals additional damage equal to your Strength bonus to all targets. You can use this ability in conjunction with the automatic, explode, or unwieldy special property (see pages 180–182).Heavy Fire At 2nd level and every 2 levels thereafter, you gain a bonus feat in addition to those gained from normal advancement. These bonus feats must be selected from those listed as combat feats. Whenever you gain a new bonus feat, you can also choose to replace one of the bonus feats you have already learned with a different bonus feat. The feat you replace can't be one that was used as a prerequisite for another feat or other ability. You can change only one feat at any given level, and you must choose whether or not to swap the feat at the time you gain the new bonus featCombat Feat At 3rd level and every 4 levels thereafter, you learn a trick called a gear boost that make you better with a particular type of weapon or armor. Choose from the gear boosts listed below. Some gear boosts require you to reach a certain soldier level to select them; this level is indicated in parentheses after the boost's nameGear Boost You gain a +1 insight bonus to damage rolls for weapons in the projectile category. This bonus increases by 1 for every 4 soldier levels you have Bullet Barrage You gain weapon specialization as a bonus feat for each weapon type this class grants you proficiency withWeapon Specialization Gm awarded pc with +1 skill bonus+1 Skill Bonus (survival, Survival)
FEATS:
1st Level: You can draw weapons faster than most You can draw a weapon as a swift action. Additionally, when making an attack using a thrown weapon as an attack or full attack action, you can draw a weapon as part of the action of making a thrown attack with it. You can draw a hidden weapon (see sleight of hand on page 146) as a move action.
Normal: you can draw a weapon as a move action, or (if your base attack bonus is +1 or higher) as part of a move action, and you can draw a hidden weapon as a standard actionQuick Draw
2nd Level Combat: Your quick reflexes allow you to react rapidly to danger You gain a +4 bonus to initiative checksImproved Initiative
3rd Level: You have enhanced physical resilience, and harsh conditions or long exertions don't easily tire you For every character level you have (and whenever you gain a new level), you gain 1 stamina point. In addition, you gain a +4 bonus to constitution checks to continue running, to avoid damage from a forced march, to hold your breath, and to avoid damage from starvation or thirst. You also gain a +4 bonus to fortitude saving throws to avoid taking damage from hot or cold environments, to withstand the harmful effects of thick and thin atmospheres, to avoid choking when breathing in heavy smoke, and to avoid fatigue caused by sleep deprivationToughness
4th Level: You can maneuver a foe to be in the direct line of an ally's fire When you are threatening a foe with a melee weapon, any ally that has line of sight to that foe without you granting that foe cover gains a +1 bonus to ranged attack rolls against that foeCoordinated Shot
5th Level: Chose one weapon type (small arms, longarms, heavy weapons, etc.). You gain a +1 bonus to attack rolls with that weapon type. If your base attack bonus is at least 3 lower than your character level (or your mechanic’s class level, if you are a drone), you gain a +2 bonus instead.Weapon Focus - Heavy Weapons
6th Level: You can easily move past dangerous foes You gain a +4 bonus to your armor class against attacks of opportunity that you provoke by leaving a threatened squareMobility
400Credits on account,Pathfinders 200, and Nor200
66 credits on credstick from the L38 loot
600 credits (on credstick?) from Bounty
2,800 credits in Payment for the Acreon job
Aja makes her announcement and Mendev is taken aback. Well, hmmm... I understand, Aja. What we have gone through is definitely events even regular military would have nightmares of. So, I understand. Your help and your aid has been invaluable to us and if my word means anything to Chskisk, I'll make sure to give you high praise. Perhaps there is Starfinder work you can do at Absalom Station itself. I certainly think you have proven yourself to hold the title.
Mendev gets to the bridge and observes Eox for the first time in real life. The pictures don't really do it justice. The madness... to destroy one's own planet and civilization just for the hate for another. Over the past few days Mendev had been brushing up on his knowledge on Eox and it's culture, when he wasn't he attempted to look more into this Null-9 character. What he remembered from the Stewards mostly pertained to the Corpsefleet and a strong feeling for not wanting to go there. Yet here I am. He thought ruefully. A strange thought came to him. Everyone, I think it would be prudent to ensure our suits life support is fully serviced. Never know how they put out fires or emplace lockdowns in this city...
When they pass the Ultranaughts Mendev stays silent, considering the massive structure and Grix's words. In his thoughts, Mendev contemplated that to a race that could potentially live eternally... a work stoppage was merely a momentary delay. Eventually some psycho politician would resume the funding and construction.
When Grix highlighted the destruction of the Castrovel battleships, Mendev wanted to point out. No matter how great they may seem; history proves they are destructible. Nothing will and ingenuity can't fix... will and ingenuity.
At the landing platform Mendev frowns at the thought of someone breaking into the Sunrise Maiden. He thought of lying to them by telling them "The Siunrise Maiden has a sophisticated intruder detection and elimination system; we are not responsible for dismembered limbs or loss of life." But thought that the words would invite intruders who would want to pry on a treasure worth such a system. Instead he just nodded.
When he saw Sid Schneed, Mendev barely recognized him. It had been Aja and Grix that had managed to secure the sponsorship deal. But he did commit the man's name to memory after he found out what he and Sanjaval Spaceflight Systems had done for the Maiden. He reached out a hand to Sid and gave a nod a half-grin. Sid, it is good to see you. Can't say we were expecting you, but it is good to see you. Mendev leans forward as he shakes the man's hand. Curious though... how exactly did you know we would be here? Not that I mind to see you and your crew... just for security reasons...
When Grix's name is called out Mendev quickly evaluates the ysoki. He thought the ysoki out of places... yet here was Grix herself a ysoki, with a shirren, a half-orc, a lashunta, and a human. No weirder than us... Mendev saw movement the opposite direction. He knew quite a few Kasathas; generally honorable folk... more than willing to part with information to put bounties behind bars. But this one walked towards them with seeming purpose. Mendev tapped Matsu and nodded towards the Kasatha to put the soldier on alert.
When Ciandria Sol introduced herself as an acquaintance to Waneda Trux, Mendev could not help but to be slightly irritated. We are leaking like a sieve... Mendev forced a lopsided smile. Greetings Ciandra... a friend of Miss Trux, is certainly a friend of ours. He smiled a smiled at the rest of the crew. It's like a full welcoming party. Let us hope everyone that knows we are here are as welcoming. He chuckled and looked back to Ciandra. Then looked over to Grix and the approaching Ysoki.
Mendev genuinely began to be happy for Grix. Then he started to realize he was about to loose his friend... and pilot. I uh...Grix... alright then. Can you at least take Aja to drop off? Or is that not where you are headed? Mendev was not quite distraught, but was at a loss for words for how fast he was about to lose friends he'd been in life and death situations.
Mendev looked to Ciandra Preferably a place with drinks... going to need a few of those...
MENDEV MALONE NEUTRAL GOOD, MALE, HUMAN - ENVOY BOUNTY HUNTER/1 Home World: ABSALOM STATION Deity: ABADAR, SARENRAE, CALISTRIA
"Curious though... how exactly did you know we would be here? Not that I mind to see you and your crew... just for security reasons..."
Sid gives you a smile. "Well, I was on business at... well, a place in the Diaspora, let's say, and a lovely pirate captain happened to mention she'd seen a Vagabond floating around and runnin' after bone ships. Since we just got budgeted for some more marketing dollars, I figured I'd see if maybe your quest would lead you to the birthplace of all bone ships. Personally, I don't know what anyone sees in the things. Ugly lines, no style. Sure they're sturdy, but who in the nine hells would want to be seen in one??" He shakes his head just thinking about Eoxian shipbuilding conventions. "Anyway, we figured we'd take some shots of the Maiden here at the Orphys spaceport and see if maybe we can break into the deadhead market." He lowers his voice at the end of the sentence as a necrovite ground crewman lurches past.
* * *
Quote:
Originally Posted by Mendev
"I uh...Grix... alright then. Can you at least take Aja to drop off? Or is that not where you are headed?"
"Yeah," Grix replies, her normally vibrant eyes filled with sudden worry for her father. "Aja can tag a long with me. We're both headed back to Absalom Station. You guys will look us up the next time you get back, right? You'll fill us in on everything we missed??" Your former pilot and engineer give tearful hugs to all around, Vette lifting the two off their feet both at once. Then they vanish into the shuffling crowd of the mostly undead that surround you.
* * *
Let's not wait on Unko, she'll catch up when she can.
The thin veil the four armed woman wore mostly covered the smile she gave the ship's crew. Her black eyes sparkled with shards of light as she looked from one face to the next. Nearly all of the faces were familiar to her. She'd read through all of the Starfinder reports she been forwarded but she had only recently been cleared for all of their reports. "Yes... we should be able to find something to drink at our destination. Mistress Trux might have something. I've have taken the liberty of hiring a ground vehicle to take us to" Ciandria looked over her shoulder to be sure nobody was listening. "our destination." She gave them all another smile from beneath her delicate silk lace veil. "If you will follow me please."
__________________
Status: Just a little behind! I hope to catch up very soon.
Congratulations to my Georgia Bulldogs! Back to back!!!
#OneRaceHuman #OnlyLoveDefeatsHate
Last edited by ricktur63; Apr 9th, 2023 at 09:13 PM.
Mendev was hoping for a less formal and more distracting location to imbibe a drink or four. So a monetary flash of disappointment was hard to disguise. He averted his gaze towards Tweak and gave a wry smile. Alright, Tweak. We are going to have to make this get to know each other as we roll. But Grix vouching for you is good enough for me. She is quite the pilot, and is quite frankly, a large reason we are still alive right now.
Mendev pauses and looks to Matsu and T'aro then reaches out to shake Tweak's hand. I am Mendev. This... as he shakes the ysoki's hand he points to Matsu. ...is Matsu and this... He goes to give Ciandria a handshake as well, but then puts two hands out, but then quickly retracts one before he swaps it in for the one that was left out. Suddenly Mendev, the two armed human, found himself with one extra arm hanging so he quickly lifts it back up and combs his fingers through his hair. ...and uh... T'aro... this is. This is T'aro. Then after his hands both become unnoccupied by the handshaking he then uses both arms to point at Vette. ...and of course, last but not least, this is Vette. Mendev presses his lips in disappointment with himself and then looks to the others. Hoping they would break the awkwardness of what just happened.
The silence in the air was making it even more awkward so he just clapped his hands and snapped popped his fingers. Alright, then... well let's get going. After you...
MENDEV MALONE NEUTRAL GOOD, MALE, HUMAN - ENVOY BOUNTY HUNTER/1 Home World: ABSALOM STATION Deity: ABADAR, SARENRAE, CALISTRIA
Matsu nods at Khalil's intrucuction, but doesn't seem to notice the embarrasment. He makes no move to shake any hands either. "I agree, let's get moving." Hopefully the meeting would be both quick and fruitful. This world was so far removed from Matsu's own, that even years of living in the sterility of spacecraft didn't soften the feeling that so much life was simply, missing.
Ciandria leads the group out the main entrance and onto a busy street. The huge train station behind you looks like a great mausoleum amid the towering, gray and black buildings of the Orphys city center. A red glow burns through the haze in the city around you. Some buildings are built in the style of ancient cathedrals, complete with vaulted arches and looming You would swear you just saw a couple of them move!gargoyles. Other towers are sleek, modern structures of glass and black steel. Still other of the buildings are shaped in the same fashion as Eoxian ships, looking like great spinal cords reaching into a black sky, which is dotted only by the stars bright enough to burn through the smog beneath the necropolis's great dome.
Before you is a river of fast moving traffic, spewing black clouds of exhaust onto the sidewalk. Some of the vehicles ride on tires and some hover, but all of them are very large and ungainly affairs of black and chrome, usually with elaborate decoration and needless contrivances like tail fins and curtains in the windows. Ciandria leads you to a big, wide hover car, with a long front end and a great What purpose this serves on a hover car is beyond you.spare tire on the back. Once everyone is strapped in, she looks for her opening and accelerates at a tremendous rate into the blur of fast-moving vehicles.
Vette, riding shotgun howls with glee at the speed. "Whooo! You sure can drive! Hey, this place stinks. They have atmosphere in this dump as a favor to us living? Man, I wish they'd quit being so nice to us." She initiates her armor's environmental protections, judging it well worth the power drain.
Before long, Ciandria turns onto an elevated, ten-lane superhighway and streaks across the city. In the distance you see what looks like an industrial sector approaching. To either side, are wide fields with churning vats of pink sludge and rows of what must be low rent housing. You pass a factory with the great Death's Head ship building logo emblazoned on its main building, and in its storage yard, you see neat rows of stacked The Eoxian Navy's mainstay single-seat fighter.Necrogliders. Suddenly, you are all thrust sideways as Ciandria banks onto an exit ramp and descends into this gloomy district. Two motorcycles race past you on the shoulder--one of the rides glaring at you with red glowing eyes and shaking her fist.
After a few turns down narrow streets framed by dark, graffiti-spattered buildings, Ciandria finally brings the big vehicle to a stop in front of a looming stone building of jet black stone. Carved into the archway over its large front door are the words Ministry of Truth * District 4. This is one of the district branches of Eox's infamous intelligence and internal security apparatus.
You walk through the front doors and into a vaulting lobby of marble with a single window in the far wall. You notice several spots with splash-like patterns of pitted wall and floor as if explosive devices had been set off inside the room. Ciandria leads the way and identifies herself and the group to a pale-faced female necrovite behind the thick glass window. The sullen bureaucrat insists on staring at each of your Pact World IDs and comparing you to the photograph. Finally, she huffs: "Second floor, Room 207." There is a buzz and a steel door to the right of the window opens. You walk past two bone trooper guards to an elevator.
You eventually find your way to room 207 and a ghastly blue-faced ghoul stands to welcome you. "Greetings, Starfinders. Please sit, if you wish." She gestures to two uncomfortable looking chairs in front of her desk. "I apologize that I have no refreshments to offer; at least none that would... appeal to you. I am Waneda Trux, a humble servant of the Convocation. Venture Captain Chiskisk--to whom I owe a debt dating back to my days as a mere breather--has asked me to assist you with your investigations here. Please tell me what it is you seek and why?"
* * *
Feel free to RP through the entire scene if you wish to give your character's impressions of Orphys.
As they moved through the crowds to Ciandria's vehicle, Matsu realised why this place felt so wrong. The surface throughts and emotions of those around him were wrong. They were there, some of these were higher functioning undead, and some living mixed in. But many, most maybe had neither emotion or thoughts. They must work on the instructions of what or whoever raised them. The lack of what he could empathetically feel compared to the numbers he could see caused a feeling akin to motion sickness.
As the car picked up speed though, the feeling dissipated. A wave of thoughts and emotions assaulted him as it always did with travel like this. Individual points of thought or emotion combining into a sea of incoherent pressure flowing, ebbing. Matsu rested back into the seat and let the feeling overwhelm all else. Content for the moment that their anonymity in this car would protect them.
As Vette spoke of the taste of the air, and put up her visor, he reembered the Aeon stone floting nearby, and was thankful. He'd stopped breathing at the first taste and now barely noticed it.
Within District four, Matsu followed the others. His heavy weaponry left at the vehicle. He submitted to the inspection and beurocracy. It had been a feature of his life so long now it barely registered. Upstairs though, the ghoul's casual life-ist remarks absolutely registered. Matsu hated discrimination in any form. For this unnatural, abomonation of magic to imply that a normal, healthy life was someone, not enough made him fume. He left the talking to Mendev. The man was better at it, and Matsu didn't now trust himself not to say something that would get them expelled from the place.
Matsu Soryn
Male lashunta (korasha) mercenary soldier 6
LN Medium humanoid (lashunta) Init +8; Senses Perception +6 Hero Points: 1
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DEFENSE
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ EAC 17; KAC 19 You can easily move past dangerous foes You gain a +4 bonus to your armor class against attacks of opportunity that you provoke by leaving a threatened squareMobility SP 60 {60} HP 46 {46} RP 7 {7} DR: 1/- No need to breathe, +4 bonus to Fortitude saving throws to avoid taking damage from hot or cold environments, to withstand the harmful effects of thick and thin atmospheres, to avoid choking when breathing in heavy smoke, and to avoid fatigue caused by sleep deprivation.Fort +7, Ref +6, Will +5
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OFFENSE
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ Speed Walk 30' Melee baton, tactical +10 (1d4+5 , critical -; Analog.operative) Ranged rail cannon, tactical +11 (1d10+6, critical Bleed 1d4; Line, unwieldy) 4/4 Ranged reaction cannon, light +11 (WS gives +3 (level) Bullet Barrage +1 to projectile weapons1d10+6, critical -; Penetrating) 6{6} Ranged laser pistol, azimuth +10 (1d4+3, critical Burn 1d4; -) Ranged frag grenade i +8 (1d6, critical ; DC 14, Explode (1d6 P, 15 ft.)) Ranged holy water grenade i +8 (, critical ; Explode (2d6 B, holy water, 20 ft.)) Ranged ice carbine, subzero +10 (1d8+6, critical -; Automatic) Ranged artillery laser, azimuth +11 (1d10+6, critical Burn 1d6; Penetrating)
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STATISTICS
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ Str 15, Dex 18, Con 14, Int 12, Wis 10, Cha 12, Base Atk +6; Grp+8 Feats Coordinated Shot, Improved Initiative, Mobility, Quick Draw, Toughness, Weapon Focus (Weapon Focus ~ Heavy Weapons) Skills Acrobatics +7, Engineering +7, Intimidate +9, Medicine +5, Perception +6, Piloting +9, Stealth +7, Survival +13, Languages Castrovelian, Common, Eoxian Combat Gear field ration (per week), Other Gear rail cannon, tactical, ag trooper battle dress, aeon stone (iridescent spindle), cred stick (2), rounds, heavy, explosive rounds, heavy, laser pistol, azimuth, baton, tactical, frag grenade i, holy water grenade i, backpack (industrial), reaction cannon, light, ice carbine, subzero, artillery laser, azimuth, 171.0 gp
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SPECIAL ABILITIES
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯ RACIAL TRAITS Lashuntas are medium humanoids with the lashunta subtypeSize And Type All lashuntas gain +2 charisma at character creation. Korasha lashuntas are muscular (+2 strength at character creation) but often brash and unobservant (-2 wisdom at character creation). Damaya lashuntas are typically clever and well-spoken (+2 intelligence at character creation) but somewhat delicate (-2 constitution at character creation)Dimorphic Lashuntas gain the following spell-like abilities: at will: daze, psychokinetic hand 1/day: detect thoughts see spell-like abilities on page 262. The caster level for these effects is equal to the lashunta's levelLashunta Magic Lashuntas can mentally communicate with any creatures within 30 feet with whom they share a language. Conversing telepathically with multiple creatures simultaneously is just as difficult as listening to multiple people speakingLimited Telepathy Lashuntas love to learn, and they receive a +2 racial bonus to any two skills of their choiceStudent
THEME BENEFITS Whether you take jobs that match your ethical beliefs or you fight for anyone who can afford your services, you are a hired gun. You might take pride in your past accomplishments, proudly displaying trophies of your kills, or you might be laden with guilt over being the sole survivor of a mission gone terribly wrong. You most likely work with other mercenaries and are familiar with the methodologies of military actions all across the galaxyMercenary You are knowledgeable about the military, from rival mercenary groups to standard military procedures to planetary armed forces, and you can draw upon this fount of information to aid your adventurous pursuits. Reduce the dc of culture checks and profession (mercenary) checks to recall knowledge about hierarchies, practices, personnel, and so on in the military by 5. Athletics is a class skill for you, though if it is a class skill from the class you take at 1st level, you instead gain a +1 bonus to athletics checks. In addition, you gain an ability adjustment of +1 to strength at character creationTheme Knowledge You're used to long marches while carrying heavy equipment and can hoist most machinery with ease. Treat your strength as 1 higher for the purpose of determining your bulk limit (see page 167)Grunt CLASS FEATURES: You have a preferred fighting style that represents the type of soldier you are. Each fighting style is composed of various style techniques that you learn as you gain experience. You must pick one fighting style upon taking your first soldier level, and once made, this choice cannot be changed. Descriptions of the fighting styles you can choose from appear on pages 112-115Primary Fighting Style The bombard fighting style emphasizes attacking multiple targets, often using grenades, and leverages substantial physical strength to control large weapons with significant recoil. At higher levels, you can use launchers, missiles, and other heavy weaponsBombard At 1st level and every 4 levels thereafter, you gain a style technique unique to your primary fighting stylePrimary Style Technique You increase the range increment of your thrown grenades by 5 x your strength bonus. In addition, you're able to salvage enough materials to create a grenade without paying for it. Creating a grenade takes 10 minutes. You can create any grenade whose item level is less than or equal to your soldier level, but this grenade is unstable and only you can use it effectively. If anyone else tries to use the grenade, it is a dud. You can have only one grenade created by this ability at one time (if you create a new grenade using this ability, the old grenade no longer works)Grenade Expert You can use your physical power to steady your weapon and make your attacks more dangerous. As a full action, you can make a single ranged attack that deals additional damage equal to your Strength bonus to all targets. You can use this ability in conjunction with the automatic, explode, or unwieldy special property (see pages 180–182).Heavy Fire At 2nd level and every 2 levels thereafter, you gain a bonus feat in addition to those gained from normal advancement. These bonus feats must be selected from those listed as combat feats. Whenever you gain a new bonus feat, you can also choose to replace one of the bonus feats you have already learned with a different bonus feat. The feat you replace can't be one that was used as a prerequisite for another feat or other ability. You can change only one feat at any given level, and you must choose whether or not to swap the feat at the time you gain the new bonus featCombat Feat At 3rd level and every 4 levels thereafter, you learn a trick called a gear boost that make you better with a particular type of weapon or armor. Choose from the gear boosts listed below. Some gear boosts require you to reach a certain soldier level to select them; this level is indicated in parentheses after the boost's nameGear Boost You gain a +1 insight bonus to damage rolls for weapons in the projectile category. This bonus increases by 1 for every 4 soldier levels you have Bullet Barrage You gain weapon specialization as a bonus feat for each weapon type this class grants you proficiency withWeapon Specialization Gm awarded pc with +1 skill bonus+1 Skill Bonus (survival, Survival)
FEATS:
1st Level: You can draw weapons faster than most You can draw a weapon as a swift action. Additionally, when making an attack using a thrown weapon as an attack or full attack action, you can draw a weapon as part of the action of making a thrown attack with it. You can draw a hidden weapon (see sleight of hand on page 146) as a move action.
Normal: you can draw a weapon as a move action, or (if your base attack bonus is +1 or higher) as part of a move action, and you can draw a hidden weapon as a standard actionQuick Draw
2nd Level Combat: Your quick reflexes allow you to react rapidly to danger You gain a +4 bonus to initiative checksImproved Initiative
3rd Level: You have enhanced physical resilience, and harsh conditions or long exertions don't easily tire you For every character level you have (and whenever you gain a new level), you gain 1 stamina point. In addition, you gain a +4 bonus to constitution checks to continue running, to avoid damage from a forced march, to hold your breath, and to avoid damage from starvation or thirst. You also gain a +4 bonus to fortitude saving throws to avoid taking damage from hot or cold environments, to withstand the harmful effects of thick and thin atmospheres, to avoid choking when breathing in heavy smoke, and to avoid fatigue caused by sleep deprivationToughness
4th Level: You can maneuver a foe to be in the direct line of an ally's fire When you are threatening a foe with a melee weapon, any ally that has line of sight to that foe without you granting that foe cover gains a +1 bonus to ranged attack rolls against that foeCoordinated Shot
5th Level: Chose one weapon type (small arms, longarms, heavy weapons, etc.). You gain a +1 bonus to attack rolls with that weapon type. If your base attack bonus is at least 3 lower than your character level (or your mechanic’s class level, if you are a drone), you gain a +2 bonus instead.Weapon Focus - Heavy Weapons
6th Level: You can easily move past dangerous foes You gain a +4 bonus to your armor class against attacks of opportunity that you provoke by leaving a threatened squareMobility
400Credits on account,Pathfinders 200, and Nor200
66 credits on credstick from the L38 loot
600 credits (on credstick?) from Bounty
2,800 credits in Payment for the Acreon job
The Kasathan woman could not help but grin under her thin veil when Vette let out a whoop and commented on her driving skills. "I'm a fair pilot and I like to do a little racing when I can. I'd like to do more but I'm currently lacking a seat." Ciandria was a woman of many talents. Her mother had made sure that her education had been varied. A broad spectrum of studies, from engineering to life science, medicine, mysticism and even xenoarcheology. "They say that you get use to the smell of the air. I haven't been here
long enough I suppose."
Ciandria knew where to find the woman Waneda Trux at this hour but these bureaucrats were always infuriating. She gave the Bone troopers a wide berth as she led the way up. Inside the lift she whispered to the others. "Mistress Trux is a typical Eoxian. I was assigned to help the woman but all the tasks that she has assigned to me have all been ones that she simply had no desire to follow up." She was first to enter but she let the others introduce themselves. Taking a seat she thought about the ship she had seen when she met these Starfinders. I'd love to see how she handles.
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Status: Just a little behind! I hope to catch up very soon.
Congratulations to my Georgia Bulldogs! Back to back!!!
#OneRaceHuman #OnlyLoveDefeatsHate
Last edited by ricktur63; Apr 21st, 2023 at 09:00 PM.
Mendev rode in the front passenger seat of the car. He wanted to be able to react to danger quickly, and thought this would be the best position to provide cover in case the crew needed to make a hasty exit out of the car.
The city itself was interesting to Mendev. It was very different from Absalom, Castrovel, or Verces. In the way it was very crowded they seemed similar, but that was where their similarities ended. This seemed like a mash-up of the bleak and macabre. There was a certain somberness to it. Lights and sights flickered by his window as he gazed always forward.
Something Ciandra said drew him out of his reverie. A pilot you say? He said the words and then turned his head. Then nodded a few times in a slow rhythm as if he had just considered something. Then Mendev returned his gaze forward.
When they reach the Ministry of Truth Mendev stepped out of the hover craft, and straightened out his jacket. Then he reached for the door to help the others out.
He took it all in with his ditty in his mind. Go in through the double doors,
into a vaulting lobby floor.
Out in a far window,
pocked marked by a widow...
Came to an elevator,
Surrounded by skeletors...
And Mendev's mind worked to map the exit route incase they had to egress. As he walked he nudged T'aro and grinned. The shirren looked like they was an euphoric state. The new, no matter how mundane, or awful, always seemed to excite it.
When presenting himself in front of Waneda, Mendev gave his most pleasant and amazed smile, attempting a human emulation to T'aro's feelings. Gave a curt nod at the introduction, and quickly his mental rolodex found a mantle to wear. Mrs. Waneda Trux. It is an honor and a pleasure to finally make our acquaintance with you. Chiskisk has spoken highly of you. I am not familiar with the purpose of the Convocation or the Ministry of Truth, but if they have you supporting their cause, it must be of the highest purpose. Mendev raised his hands and tee-peed his fingers. Humbled we are by your time and aid. I am Mendev Malone, and this here are my comrades and crewmates in The Sunrise Maiden. Mendev then quickly indicates the crew with his arm as he mentions their names. Vette, Tweak, T'aro, and Matsu. Mendev made it a point to put Tweak's name in the middle and quickly covered it with what wouldd be the more recognized members of the Drift Rock team. We are Starfinder aspirants, and hope that one day, the honored Chiskisk speaks as highly of us, as he has of you.
Mendev then goes on to put on a pained looked. Unfortunately, our visit is not one that allows us much time to learn about Eoxian culture. A shame as it seems as one that is incredibly interesting. I bet one could spend an eternity learning about all the knicks and knacks of Eoxian customs. Alas we are here in Starfinder business, one that relates to that Drift Rock that you might have heard of? Mendev pauses a moment to see if Waneda recognizes what he is talking about.
Mendev then leans forward. We think this Rock, was part of a giant weapon. One that could be devastating not to mere vessels, but bigger... like really bad stuff. Planet busting stuff. AND we think the Corpse Fleet may be after it... amongst other agents that are interested in it. We are of course trying to prevent that. We are tracking a specific type of ship, and we believe it may have landed here on Eox. Would you be able to assist us in tracking it down?
MENDEV MALONE NEUTRAL GOOD, MALE, HUMAN - ENVOY BOUNTY HUNTER/1 Home World: ABSALOM STATION Deity: ABADAR, SARENRAE, CALISTRIA
Tweak followed along with the group as they made their way to room 207 and trying not to be noticed by the scary looking bone trooper guards at the elevator. When asked to sit, Tweak made his way over to a corner in the office and just sat on the ground with his back against the wall. He was more than willing to allow the others to take the few chairs closes to Waneda Trux. When Mendev introduce him as part of the crew, Tweak was a little surprised and a tad bit embarrassed. Luckily the introductions were quick and it did not look like he had to say anything.
Tweak listened to the conversation, but honestly he couldn't wait to get on the Sunrise Maiden and explore the engine room. At least there he would feel more comfortable, assuming that most of the others didn't visit the engine room very often. He would eventually get used to the others and if his cousin trusted them, then he would extend the same courtesy. But it might take some time to build up enough trust to talk to them. But Grix gave him a job to take care of them, and that is what he would do.
Ms. Trux drums her fingers on he desk as Matsu engages in his pleasantries, though she seems to be genuinely flattered by his desire to learn more about Eoxian culture. "How lovely, a breather who recognizes the cold beauty of Eox. It really is quite a diverse world, despite the landscape you may have seen flying in to Orphys. I was like you once. I hailed from Absalom Station and sought out conversion to undeath so I might live forever and experience all Eox has to offer." She bats her hideous, glassy eyes. "If you ever want to go ghoul, let me know. I'd be more than happy to turn you myself."
When Mendev gets down to business, Trux sits back and lets out a long sigh. "You seem like an uncommonly agreeable breather, so let me tell you right now that we get dozens of reports every year of the Corpsefleet working on this or that planet killing weapon. Personally, I think most of it is planted by the military and Blackwind Corporation. Oh, they'd just love to get a contact to finish that Annihilator and start a new one. It's all about money for them."
She shuffles through some papers on her desk. "Honestly, I'm not sure what Chiskisk was expecting, but I don't have much. Tracking ships in and out of Orphys is a fool's errand unless you have a registration number. There's been some chatter about some "big operation" going down, but that's normal. I'll be worried when the chatter actually stops. There really isn't anything that you could follow up in a concrete way-- Oh. Hang on. I do have this; it came in just last night." She holds up a small sheet of paper. "I was going to follow it up eventually, but if you'd like to take it off my hands, I wouldn't mind." She hands the paper across the desk to Mendev.
Ministry of Eternal Vigilance
Corpsefleet Incident Report
Report Filed by:Gretal Rapinder Necrotype/Species: Bonetrooper (Elebrian) Address: 5326 Bareknuckle Way, Splice, Orphys Occupation: Navy Trooper (retired) Employer: 5th Squadron Eoxian Navy Available for Recontact: Yes Filing Date: 6th Sarenith 317 Recorded by: Waneda Trux
Incident of Suspected Corpsefleet Activity: On or around 00:00 on 4 Sarenith, my flatmate, Harvinne Nessex (also 5th Squadron veteran), left our residence saying she needed to purchase new clothes--a curious task given the late hour. She has not returned to the flat. This morning, 6 Sarenith, I entered her quarters and discovered that most of her belongings were gone. I found a torn piece of paper that looks like it came from her journal (Harvinne keeps a real paper journal and writes in it with ink). On the page, she wrote about disillusionment with Eoxian policy toward Pact Worlds and her intention to join a contingent of the Corpsefleet currently recruiting in Orphys for "a special mission." I believe that Harvinne had left the Splice to join the Corpsefleet.
After you read it, Waneda gives a weary shrug. "Pretty thin, I know. We get lots of reports of corpsefolk and bonetroopers going off to join the Corpsefleet. Honestly, I think most of them just got mixed up in the underworld and got themselves disappeared, as the saying goes. But this one actually mentions that the Corpsefleet is recruiting for a specific purpose, so the interest level rises a little. The Splice is a neighborhood just down the road from here--your comm units can guide you there. You want to look into it?"
Ms. Trux also takes down your contact information and promises to let you know if she hears anything else.