Chapter 2(b): A Tense Welcome

Adventures of the Legion's 32nd Special Exploratory Team.
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Chapter 2(b): A Tense Welcome

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Conditions
It is late afternoon when @Hedge @Squidge @Goswin Aigner @White Castle and @Billy arrive at the City of the Mind’s eye. The air is pleasantly cool and the sky is overcast. As you approach a green valley, a fog arises, blocking your view for miles. Any party members with any psionic ability is just able to make out the outlines of a vague city skyline within the fog.

The Welcome Wagon
Tessaric is undaunted by the mists. “Stay close,” he tells you, and in particular your charge, before stepping into them. As you follow, the mists swirl around your feet, and then your torso, and then your entire body, enveloping you and seemingly spinning you in every direction at once. Fortunately for anyone new to the city, you can always see Tessaric just in front of you, pulling the Harvester along behind.

The Xombies seem entirely unphased by the disorienting mists.

After endless minutes, you emerge from the fog into sudden brightness and warmth, as if Psyscape were in midsummer instead of early spring. The famed city, bathed in a combination of sunlight and the dim, blue glow of a massive ley line nexus, rises from the earth like something out of a children’s story, its walls, battlements and towers crafted of a stone so white, it could be mistaken for the clouds themselves.

Massive gates stand in front of you, and a company of Psi-Warriors of varying races move quickly to meet you. Once they see Tessaric is with you, Psi-Pikes are lowered and Psi-Blades are dismissed, but they do watch the party carefully.

Several of them come to relieve Tessaric of his prisoner and lead her and the Xombies away.

Placing one hand on the shoulder of each of Hedge and Squidge, Tessaric says, “Come, all of you. Let us take a moment to get something to eat and wash off the road dust. We won’t have much time, I don’t think. I am long overdue, and I will likely be called to the Halls of Government before nightfall to make a report. I think you will all want to be there for it.

Tessaric leads you through the gates and past towering buildings representing a blend of every style of architecture imaginable from every culture and every era any of you may have ever heard of. His step does not waver and he is uncharacteristically quiet, waving off any questions about your surroundings “until you have time for a proper tour.”

He takes you to a walled complex of rough-hewn gray stone blocks. You pass through the outer wall and find yourself among a very functional, but somehow warm, complex of buildings that can only really be described as “militant” in nature. Various barracks, administration buildings, expansive grounds for training, and beautifully tended gardens dot your view, and everywhere you look, warriors in white are coming and going, or training in organized groups in the yard.

“Few are allowed in here, but we have some spare rooms in the barracks. Get yourself cleaned up and meet me back out here in an hour and a half; I’ll come get you sooner if it’s needed, and I’ll send someone up to your rooms to make sure you have anything you need. It’s a barracks, not a hotel, but there are clean clothes and hot showers aplenty.”

He raises a hand. “Have a care, my friends. There are those who will welcome your presence here as emissaries of the Tomorrow Legion, but plenty will not. You will need to be on your toes, and be prepared to make your case to the Judges as to why the city should trust you, rather than throw you out the gates. Our Judges are divided in this. One pushes to expand our war, one pushes to secure our border, and one pushes for what he calls ‘evangelism.’” He gives a snort at that. “You will learn more in due time, but consider yourself warned.”

With that, Tessaric heads inside, giving you all a wave as he goes.
Psi-Warriors.jpg
Prepare for (Social) Conflict!
Tessaric will return in a bit to take you to the Halls of Government, where you can expect to make your case to the rulers of Psyscape why a union with the Tomorrow Legion is in both parties’ best interests.

Familiarize yourself with the Social Conflict rules on page 143 of SWADE, and keep in mind that the Support rules are definitely in play here. If you can manage to convince the Judges that an alliance with Psyscape will be beneficial, you may be able to open up more formal ties between Castle Refuge and Psyscape (beyond the trading of occasional emissaries, such as Hedge and Squidge).

Given what Tessaric told you, though, expect your arguments to be opposed. Failure here could be catastrophic for your efforts in the region, and possibly for the world itself.

For now, you may take rest and refreshment as Tessaric suggests, or you may talk among yourselves, or you may throw all advice to the wind and go wander about the city. Feel free to role play here a bit and coordinate in Hangouts, and then I will put up a post for your meeting with the Judges.
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Re: Chapter 2(b): A Tense Welcome

Post by Vargan Orok »

Entering Psyscape for the first time since losing his friends to the void, Hedge keeps quiet. For them, there is no return.

At the barracks he keeps to himself, making no effort to connect with people he might no or to see the city. His self-employed exile has not yet been lifted. He is here as a stranger not a native. Yet, his commitment to the cause remains.

Not one to turn down a hot shower he takes advantage of the amenities and ensures Strider is stable and fed. He also hits up the commissary and stocks up on smokes. Never know when you can buy more, and smokes made by Bursters were always better.

When talk turns to the Judges he furrows his brow and gives a somber look to his companions, "I thought we were only here to help the Xombies, not be embroiled in politics," He lights one of his new Burster Brand cigarettes and exhaled deeply, "One of you better do the talking, I'm not very popular around here."
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Re: Chapter 2(b): A Tense Welcome

Post by Falderol Grelemis »

As the group enters the city Billy looks around like the typical tourist. His eyes are moving from one wonder to another and his mouth is slightly open. "Wow, this has got to be the biggest city ever. So much stuff, and so many people!"

When they get to the barracks Billy nods in approval. He may not be formally trained but he knows organization when he sees it. He takes a shower and enjoys a nice meal then gathers with the rest of the Legion.
Hedge wrote: Wed Apr 29, 2020 3:10 amWhen talk turns to the Judges he furrows his brow and gives a somber look to his companions, "I thought we were only here to help the Xombies, not be embroiled in politics," He lights one of his new Burster Brand cigarettes and exhaled deeply, "One of you better do the talking, I'm not very popular around here."
Billy snorts. "You may be better off than me. No one likes orcs and we, generally, are ok with that. I can stand there and look menacing though. Whoever does do the talking needs to bring up this Nax-thing and the threat it poses to all."
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Re: Chapter 2(b): A Tense Welcome

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Billy wrote: Fri May 01, 2020 8:50 am Billy snorts. "You may be better off than me. No one likes orcs and we, generally, are ok with that. I can stand there and look menacing though. Whoever does do the talking needs to bring up this Nax-thing and the threat it poses to all."
Castle looks at @Billy, "That is Nyxla and judging by the escort we just provided, Psyscape is far more aware than the Legion probably knew."

"We do need to earn their trust and learn if their methoids of recovery can be adapted for in the field."
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Re: Chapter 2(b): A Tense Welcome

Post by Vargan Orok »

"Psyscape likes to keep to herself," Hedge says with a sigh, "Convincing them to ally with the Legion won't be easy. I'll take the lead if needed, just be ready to have my back. We also can't afford days of negotiations and political ass scratching. The rest of the team needs us in Gatestown."
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Re: Chapter 2(b): A Tense Welcome

Post by Goswin Aigner »

Goswin keeps track of the surroundings and landmarks en route to Psyscape, and he is awed by the strange mists protecting the city. When they finally reach the city he is too dumbstruck to ask a single question. As wonderful as Castle Refuge was, Psyscape mystique is its equal.

Although he prefers the wild places, the young man does appreciate the amenities civilization offers. Goswin takes several minutes to clean himself and make himself more presentable then relaxes in a comfortable chair.
Hedge wrote: Sat May 02, 2020 4:57 am "Psyscape likes to keep to herself," Hedge says with a sigh, "Convincing them to ally with the Legion won't be easy. I'll take the lead if needed, just be ready to have my back. We also can't afford days of negotiations and political ass scratching. The rest of the team needs us in Gatestown."
Goswin interupts @Hedge, "Well, I don't mind socializing at all. Etiquette was one of my mother's strong suits and she endeavored to teach me what she could. If you could explain the key pieces of information I need to know, I could speak on behalf of our group with the Judges."
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Combat-Relevant Edges & Abilities:
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  • Elemental Brotherhood: See/converse with all elemental entities (including spirits of dark/light). Such beings see Goswin as a brother and will offer/request aid if needed.
  • Fusion Synergy: Powers activated using the fusion Trapping gain a free reroll on all related Trait checks. They also gain a +2 Toughness bonus to barrier, entangle, and protection.
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Re: Chapter 2(b): A Tense Welcome

Post by Vargan Orok »

Goswin Aigner wrote: Sat May 02, 2020 7:43 pm Goswin interupts Hedge, "Well, I don't mind socializing at all. Etiquette was one of my mother's strong suits and she endeavored to teach me what she could. If you could explain the key pieces of information I need to know, I could speak on behalf of our group with the Judges."
"Go for it kid," Hedge says with a puff of smoke. He knows this is the kind of stuff Cyberknights are supposed to do, go stand up for truth, justice, and the code, on behalf of all beings but he isn't exactly the shiny and bright representative of the order. Grimacing he wonders what Lord Caoke would do if he were here. Then, looking at Goswin, he shrugs.

"They might like your idealism."
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Re: Chapter 2(b): A Tense Welcome

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"Okay," says Squidge, trotting up after hobnobbing a bit with a couple of others from the city, "this is all really annoying, since if they didn't want to help, why send me off in the first place, but OKAY."

She looks at Goswin and nods. "The thing about Psyscape you absolutely have to understand is that we saved the planet a long time ago, and then zipped up into the Astral Plane for ages. So there's a lot of stuff about what's going on in the world that the leaders are way behind on. At the same time, the old enemy we saved the world from before is back again too, so it's going to be very hard to get them to agree that ANY local skirmish, and that means pretty much any military conflict, takes precedence over that. So always frame the Tomorrow Legion in terms of how you can help them overcome Nyxla, or they'll lose interest in it."

Squidge takes a deep breath, then adds, "Also...be careful how you offer things like military support, because the defense of Psyscape is a little bit of a prickly issue for some of the old-timers. The Psynex's influence isn't what it used to be and it has people in the know worried. Reminding them of that could make them lash out at you." She shrugs. "Or it might be just the reality check they need. Just be careful. Scared people don't always do the sensible thing."

"I'll go with you and help out, but you should definitely take the lead. You're the one from the Legion. You're the one they'll want to hear from the most."
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Re: Chapter 2(b): A Tense Welcome

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Billy frowns. "Wait. They fought this Naxla thing before but did not kill it? Is it really that tough? What did they do, lock it in some other dimension? Yea, that will make it happy. So what does it take to make this thing go away? Is there really anything the Legion can do to help?"
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Re: Chapter 2(b): A Tense Welcome

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Billy wrote: Fri May 08, 2020 4:11 pm Billy frowns. "Wait. They fought this Naxla thing before but did not kill it? Is it really that tough? What did they do, lock it in some other dimension? Yea, that will make it happy. So what does it take to make this thing go away? Is there really anything the Legion can do to help?"
Castle smiles at Billy. "All very good questions. Which is why we are here. Get answers without over committing ourselves."
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Re: Chapter 2(b): A Tense Welcome

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"Nxla's already in another dimension," explains Squidge. "It's trying to get into ours. To do that it has to, sort of, anchor itself...and it does that by stealing people's souls. That lets it...uh, nourish itself...from the souls, and also hijack the connection between soul and body to form a metaphysical anchor point. Now, Nxla's HUGE so it needs a lot of souls to get over...but sooner or later it'll have enough."

She looks around at everyone to see how they're taking it.

"Remember that Harvester and the 'zombies' she had that we brought in? The zombies were what's left after Nxla devours their souls. They get sort of twisted by the magic of it. The Harvester is a person that Nxla has given power to in exchange for helping it on this side."

"So what Psyscape did, way back when Nxla first started corrupting Harvesters and building up zombies, was start stealing the zombies back. For some reason Nxla is really susceptible to psionic power. They figured out how to use the same connection Nxla uses to yank the stolen soul back out of his grasp and put it back in the body. You can also just break the connection by killing the zombie...but then the soul stays inside Nxla." Squidge grimaces. "Not great."

"Anyway, Nxla got pretty close to coming across before Psyscape and its allies managed to turn the tide and basically wiped out all the Harvesters...which meant it couldn't steal more souls, which basically 'banished' it from Earth. Even though it was never technically on Earth. Once that happened, the Psynex shifted the city into the Astral plane. Earth was getting really dangerous, and Psyscape had revealed itself to everyone. They couldn't take the chance that they'd be destroyed. Not with Nxla still out there."

Squidge took a deep breath.

"As for what the Legion can do? Support Psyscape. Help us find and kill the Harvesters. Round up the zombies for re-souling. Help protect us from the Coalition and the Federation and so on. Maybe send some psychics our way..." She shrugs. "The Council will have ideas of its own too, I'm sure."
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Re: Chapter 2(b): A Tense Welcome

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Castle is taking copious mental notes.

"Well, I appreciate the opportunity to be in Psyscape and I am also greatful for those you from Psyscape being able to clear up some questions."

"Really, we need to be preapred to field a vast number of questions, spoken and unspoken."

"I know personally, I am unable to to speak for the Legion in any way."
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Re: Chapter 2(b): A Tense Welcome

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Billy frowns. He starts counting off points on his fingers. "Ok, so, it has never been here but came close before. It takes a soul, to feed on, and replaces that soul with a bit of itself. If enough of itself gets over here then the rest can join it and truly bad stuff happens. We could just kill the bodies it is in but that traps the souls in its stomach. Instead we need to round them up so you lot can pull the souls back. This saves them and weakens it. Also, if we kill enough of the harvesters it has no ability to switch out souls so it is stuck. Right?"[b/]

When he looks up and gets nods he continues. "So the best thing the Legion can do is to provide more bodies to hunt harvesters and round up... Xombies? Wow, I can see how that would be confusing. 'You can kill zombies but not xombies.' Someone needs to come up with a better name so we can tell them apart better."

Looking around the group he shrugs. "I guess we better go see how this turns out."
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Re: Chapter 2(b): A Tense Welcome

Post by Goswin Aigner »

"That is a terrible situation, but a good explanation. Thank you, @Squidge," Goswin says with a nod, "These all seem like duties we could assist with, but maybe not immediately. We need to finish our mission, but with luck our friends in Gatestown have already secured the orb or at least gained solid information as to its location."

The young man considers the meeting and the information his allies had given him and asks @Hedge, "If we can acquire the orb quickly, how soon do you think we can deliver it and be ready to assist Psyscape? And can we communicate with them from here? I'm not familiar with communication methods. It's easiest for me to just ask an air elemental to carry word for me. Capricious things, but apt for the task."
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Re: Chapter 2(b): A Tense Welcome

Post by Vargan Orok »

Nodding thoughtfully as he puffs his smoke Hedge considers the questions, "Delivering the Orb is not difficult, just travel back the way we came. If we brought it here I am sure we could reach the Castle. Psyscape can communicate with her people with long range dream state telepathy, so surely they have a way to reach Refuge, they might even send a line walker to take the orb back. We got options."

"I don't want to push our luck, but there are seers in town who might give some help locating the orb. Fickle bunch but better than groping around in the dark."
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Re: Chapter 2(b): A Tense Welcome

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Led Like Lambs
Tessaric meets you all in the courtyard with a curt, but not unfriendly, nod.

“I’m glad you’re here. I just received my summons, and I was ‘asked’ to bring you all along with me. I will explain on the walk over, though it’s not far.”

He continues, “here is the situation as it stands today. Essentially, we have three Judges. It’s a lot more complicated than that, but for now, these three are the three people who matter. The first is Judge Atalana Iasus, the legend. Judge Iasus fought against Nxla in our last war and then placed herself in stasis to be reawakened when Nxla began to stir again. She is a true warrior, a Psi-Warrior, and may be your staunchest ally. It was at her urging that emissaries,” and he nods towards Squidge and Hedge, “were sent out from Psyscape to other groups that might be like-minded in the struggle against Nxla.”

He guides you towards the gate of the Psi-Warrior compound and towards the Halls of Government. “Then there’s Judge Yanchang. He’s newer to the panel, a Mystic. He’s the golden boy, and he’s the one who thought up the idea of ‘evangelizing’.” When he sees blank faces from anyone in the party, he stops and turns to face you. “Right. Forgot. Most of you are new to this, but, basically, if Nxla gets enough people on Earth to serve him, he can cross over into this dimension. In order to prevent that from happening, Judge Yanchang set up a program to kind of re-educate the Harvesters and convince them they’d be better off doing something else.”

“It’s non-violent, and the city has sent agents all over the place to convince folks to abandon Nxla in favor of other pursuits, and sometimes those other pursuits are pretty terrible ones. They switch to worshiping some other dark god, or go work for that lunatic Duncscon, or any number of other things. A couple of them actually turn things around and try doing things differently, but that’s rare. Anyway, don’t expect Judge Yanchang to be on your side.”

He exhales. “I know this is a lot very quickly, so try to keep up.” He starts walking again. “Your last Judge is Judge Rr Iidu. He was elected from the citizenry, and he’s a banker by trade. Not a fighter, and, as far as anyone knows, not a magic user. He’s a D’Norr, so we know he’s not a psychic. Still, he’s got a good reputation and comes from a well-respected family, but nobody ever knows how he’s going to vote on anything beforehand. He’s a wild card.”

As you leave the Psi-Warriors’ compound, you get a good view of the Halls of Government. Its veneer is of a classical Greek acropolis, a walled rectangular citadel made entirely of solid, flawless white marble. The structure covers over four city blocks and stands three stories tall, its ornate columns and archways reaching up to impossible heights. Tessaric explains that offices of bureaucracy, services, and representative government fill the various offices in the interior of the Halls.

To the Slaughter? Or to Success?
Tessaric takes you into the imposing building and through the awe-inspiring marble halls. Even at this hour, the building is full of clerks and workers busily making their way here and there. Tessaric leads you to a majestic looking courtroom that seems large enough for a game of juicer football, and then he leads you right past it and to a side door down the hallway. Giving a quick knock, he enters the room and beckons you to follow.

You find yourselves in a conference room instead of a courtroom. Two humans, one a tired looking man in his mid twenties and the other a resolute looking woman in her forties or perhaps fifties, await you, as well as a spry looking D’Norr whose age is hard to fix. A scant handful of other humanoids of various races are also there.

”Ah. Tessaric. Good; we await your report,” says the woman, who must be Judge Atalana, “as well as introductions to these Legionnaires you mentioned.”

Tessaric nods in acknowledgement of the order and gives his report on his mission, including on the deaths of his companions and the party’s role in securing the Harvester and subduing the Xombies without killing them.

He finishes, ”and then they escorted me back to Psyscape, acting as security in place of the teammates who were lost. They acted with great honor and competence in the field, all of which will be in my written report.”

Judge Atalana dismisses Tessaric with a smile and a slight nod, and then she turns to the rest of you.

”We thank you and are in your debt for the aid you have loaned to our agent, Tessaric, in the completion of this mission. We will attempt tomorrow to return the souls of the Xombies you have brought to us to their bodies. It is a grueling process, but one we have perfected over many millennia.”

” You should know, there has been some discussion about how involved Psyscape should be with the Tomorrow Legion. Your conduct does your credit, and the fact that you have accepted a pair of out liaisons into your tabla speaks well of you, regardless of their personal histories.” Her gaze lingers on Hedge as she says that last part.

” But, there is some reticence. This world has changed so much during the time we were away, and many new threats come and go seemingly daily. Psyscape endures, and we would expect any partnership of ours to ensure, and there is not yet much of a track record for your legion to speak of. Tell us, what do you think of the idea of a closer union between your organization and our city? Help us come to a conclusion.”

War of Words
Okay, team, now’s your chance! Familiarize yourselves with the Social Conflict rules from SWADE (see page 145). This is your chance to convince at least two of the three judges that, at the very least, an informal sharing of resources between Psyscape and the Legion against a common foe would be beneficial. Do extremely well and the city may even make formal overtures to Castle Refuge to establish more permanent relations. Rather than impose penalties on your Persuasion rolls, I will give bonuses or penalties to the judges’ Spirit rolls after each round (which you will not be able to see, representing your uncertainty regarding the judges’ leaving). You may use the Support rules as normal (giving a maximum of +4 to the lead negotiator’s roll), and I would recommend picking a different lead for each round so no single voice gets “stale” in the judges’ ears.

The conflict will run three rounds and your total tokens will be tallied at the end of the three rounds to see how you did.
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Re: Chapter 2(b): A Tense Welcome

Post by Vargan Orok »

Hedge sighs and reaches for a smoke, then thinks better of it. He was already on thin ice around here. Instead he rubs the stubble on his chin before finally speaking, "Judge Iasus, you know me and already mentioned my checkered past. You sent me out to join the Cyberknights because you found them to be worthy allies. Well Lord Coake, he went and founded this Legion. So you don't need my word, or even my reputation, the Cyberknights have already given their seal on this outfit." Then, he gives a nod to Goswin, "I'll let the kid here speak for the legion."


Reactions start on level higher
Persuasion d6!!+1: [3]+1 = 4
Wild 1d6!!+1: [3]+1 = 4

Benny!
Reroll Persuasion 1d6!!+1: [5]+1 = 6
Reroll Wild Die 1d6!!+1: [2]+1 = 3
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Re: Chapter 2(b): A Tense Welcome

Post by White Castle »

Castle's personal computer was open as soon as they entered the room. Fingers furiously typing in data and annotating information and
Academics 1d10!!+2: [4]+2 = 6 Wild 1d6!!+2: [2]+2 = 4
.

"Most of the information is new to Earth. The older data does correspond to some very old ... records."
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Re: Chapter 2(b): A Tense Welcome

Post by Falderol Grelemis »

Billy looks at the trio and grins, without showing teeth. "I have not been involved in the Legion for long, I am a recent traveler to this world. In the time I have been here the Legion was the first to truly accept me as I am. They are good people and, if nothing else, can provide extra eyes and hands for corralling these harvesters. I am sure they can offer more if you are willing to let them know what you want."

-1 due to Disagreeable D-Bee
Persuasion: 1d4-1: [4]-1 = 3
Wild: 1d6-1: [2]-1 = 1
Full Sheet
Parry: 7
Toughness: 9(3)
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Squidge
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Re: Chapter 2(b): A Tense Welcome

Post by Squidge »

"The fact that the world's changed is exactly why we need alliances with people like the Tomorrow Legion," Squidge points out. "They've been here for it, this is the world they grew up with. With their help, we won't waste as much time trying to get reacquainted with the new map. We can get straight to the part we're best at...kicking some Nxla ass. And if it's just a question of if we should trust them, well, I'll vouch for them. I've seen the Legion in action for a little while now, and they're good people."

She winked at their lead negotiator and gave him a thumbs-up.

Rolls: Persuasion 5 - +1 Support
Persuasion 1d6! or wild 1d6!: [4]+[1] = 5
Forgot my +1 from being a smokin' hot snack (attractive +1) but it doesn't move the needle much. 5 instead of 4.
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Goswin Aigner
Posts: 64
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Re: Chapter 2(b): A Tense Welcome

Post by Goswin Aigner »


Persuasion 1d10+3: [9]+3 = 12
Wild 1d6+3: [6]+3 = 9 Ace 1d6+9: [4]+9 = 13
Charismatic Reroll
Persuasion 1d10!!+3: [5]+3 = 8
Wild Reroll 1d6!!+3: [1]+3 = 4
Benny to Reroll
Persuasion Benny 1d10!!+5: [8]+5 = 13
Wild Benny 1d6!!+5: [5]+5 = 10

Goswin enters the room confidently with his shoulders back and his held head high. He doesn't display his usual giddiness and even remains calmly quiet while the proceedings open. He allows his allies to break the ice before addressing the Judges.

"Thank you for this opportunity to press our case, judges," Goswin nods to each Judge then focuses his attention on Judge Atalana, "I have learned that you were instrumental in routing Nxla long ago, Judge Atalana. Thank you for protecting us all and continuing to do so. Having recently lost my own mother, I cannot imagine the courage required for you to willingly leave all your friends and family behind to see to your future's survival as well."

"Nxla is a previously unknown threat to the Tomorrow Legion but will undoubtedly be a high priority once they are informed. We have much to offer to an alliance between our two peoples." Goswin pauses to gather his thoughts, "Tessaric mentioned the importance of Psionics when dealing with Nxla, his harvesters and their xombies. With Lord Coake being a founder of the Tomorrow Legion and his Cyber-Knights being some of our staunchest allies, that alone should prove that we have strength to offer but more importantly demonstrate the depth of integrity I believe Psyscape would look for in its allies."

Goswin smiles at the judges and continues, "We have other assets, of course. Mind melters, dragons and other powerful psionic forces. Beyond that we have soldiers and magical experts from all walks of life. We have knowledge of your neighbors and Intel on their leaders. We can bring trade to the table with access to mundane, magical and techno-wizard goods. We have contacts across North America. Most importantly, the Tomorrow Legion is driven to provide a better tomorrow for everyone, Human and D-bee alike. Nxla directly opposes our mission, and he must not be allowed to destroy our home and our future."
Goswin Aigner, Elemental Fusionist
Goswin, Elemental Fusionist
Pace: 6(d6); Parry: 6; Toughness: 15(7)
Combat-Relevant Edges & Abilities:
  • All Thumbs: –2 to use mechanical or electrical devices.
  • Elan: +2 when spending a Benny to reroll a Trait roll.
  • Elemental Brotherhood: See/converse with all elemental entities (including spirits of dark/light). Such beings see Goswin as a brother and will offer/request aid if needed.
  • Fusion Synergy: Powers activated using the fusion Trapping gain a free reroll on all related Trait checks. They also gain a +2 Toughness bonus to barrier, entangle, and protection.
  • Life Sign Harmony: Environmental protection makes him immune to all negative effects or damage from his life sign, and elemental manipulation Trait checks are made at +4 when using his life sign's Trappings.
  • Marksman: Ignore up to 2 points of penalties from Range, Cover, Called Shot, Scale, or Speed; or add +1 to first Athletics (throwing) or Shooting roll. Character may not move or fire greater than RoF 1.
  • Primordial Bond: While in nature, Fusionists have Danger Sense.
    • Danger Sense: Notice roll at +2 to sense ambushes or similar events.
  • Strong Willed: +2 to resist Smarts or Spirit-based Tests.
  • Variable Trappings: When activating powers, may choose between Air, Earth and Lightning Fusion trappings.
Wounds: 0/3; Fatigue: 0/2; PP: 0/30; PP: 20/20
Bennies: 4/3; Conviction: 1/1
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Pursuit
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Re: Chapter 2(b): A Tense Welcome

Post by Pursuit »

Instead of a full social conflict, I have decided to alter the challenge post-hoc to a simple persuasion test, which you passed with flying colors. The highest any of the Judges rolled to resist your argument was a 5, which gives you a raise on even the formerly uncooperative Judge Yanchang. That’s enough to raise every one of the Judges to Cooperative or better, and given that I slowed things down quite a bit by being slow to post, I’d like to advance the story here. Besides, you all did a great job last round and you deserve the win.


When Goswin stops speaking, a heavy quiet settles over the room and you can practically hear the wheels turning in the judges’ heads.

After close to a full minute, Judge Yanchang speaks. ”Well, that was certainly unexpected. Please give us the room, if you would.” He gives a quick nod to the Psi-Warrior closest to the door, who holds it open for you to leave.

You wait in the hall for what seems like hours, but in reality is closer to fifteen minutes, before the judges call you back in.

Judge Yanchang stands when you come in, the other two judges looking relaxed in their seats at the table.

Yanchang clears his throat. ”When I first heard of the Tomorrow Legion, I admit, I was more than a little skeptical. Cities, coalitions, and even entire civilizations rise and fall here on Earth with little fanfare, and faster than we can track. We find this world entirely changed from when we left it, except for one, oppressive constant: evil is here.”

Clearly a talented orator, the Mystic Judge continues. “Nxla, of course, which is why Psyscape returned at all. But the Coalition States, the so-called ‘True’ Federation of Magic, the new occupants of Atlantis, monster-ravaged kingdoms in the North, the South, and across the seas, and even in the hearts of our most secure places.

Looking each of you squarely in the eye, unflinchingly, Judge Yanchang says, “My colleagues and I have conferred. Your arguments, though anecdotal and, if I am being frank, unsupported by any tangible type of track record, are nonetheless convincing. What Judge Iasus began, we have agreed to expand: we will be sending additional liaisons to the Tomorrow Legion to confer with the leaders at Castle Refuge at higher levels. Even now, our scribes are preparing an official dispatch to the Tomorrow Legion inviting them to send an official ambassador to take up residence in Psyscape so that we may coordinate our efforts against Nxla. Though I am not entirely convinced it will bear fruit,” he holds up a finger, “I am convinced it is worth the minimal effort reaching out will entail.

“In exchange, we would ask some additional service of you, where our interests overlap. As it happens, even Psyscape is not entirely free of Nxla’s influence, notwithstanding the vigilance of our Psi-Warriors and the resolve of our people.

At this point, he nods to Judge Iidu, and the gruff-looking D’Norr stands up while Yanchang sits down. “Obviously, nothing we say here leaves this room. Our intelligence reports of whispers of a cell of Nxla supporters having set up somewhere in the city. We suspect they’re likely in the Bazaar, which is just to the East of the Gardens, but that’s mostly just speculation. All we have are whispers, and not very detailed ones.”

“As visiting dignitaries to the city, you will be put up in temporary quarters at the Consulate. Squidge and Hedge, of course, may stay with you or may return to their own domiciles in the city as they prefer, but the rest of you will stay there. Whenever your Tomorrow Legion sends an ambassador, that’s where they will stay with their staff, too.”

“We would like you to go out and tour the city. Get to know it. Get to know its people. As outsiders, you’ll be conspicuous, but also easy to overlook. You’ve got an easy excuse to go pretty much everywhere, and people may be looser with their tongues around you than they are with our agents. It can be difficult to keep secrets in the City of the Mind’s Eye, so watch your thoughts as you look around. If you can help us get a lead on this cell of Nxla spies, we will be in your debt, and we will be further convinced of the benefits of an alliance with your Tomorrow Legion.”

Without waiting for a response, the D’Norr man sits down, and Judge Iasus stands up. With a broad smile, she asks, “So, Legionnaires. What will it be? Will you help us?”

Assuming you decide to help, we will use the networking rules to get some information about the location, number, etc. of the alleged Nxla supporters in Psyscape, with a twist. In your post, roll a d4. On a 4, you encounter some kind of complication in your networking, and you must make your roll at -2. If you choose to Support someone else, your roll is still made at -2, and should someone else choose to Support you, their roll must be made at -2.

Because this is happening simultaneously with the battle in Gatestown, whenever the players there finish, they will be able to help out here, too.

Take a look at the Places of Interest in Psyscape starting on page 114 of Arcana & Mysticism to get a feel for the places you can go to look for the suspected cell; if you do not have access to Arcana & Mysticism, just shoot me a DM on Discord and I’ll happily post the information you need here on the forum. You can talk amongst yourselves on how you plan to root out the bad guys, or you can strike out on your own and narrate the results.

Assume this all takes you a few days. You don’t need to necessarily narrate days worth of networking, but just keep the timing in mind.

The “busting heads” option for Networking is available to you, but there may be consequences if you choose to use that within the walls of Psyscape.

If you want to use a bribe to get more information, roll your wealth die. A success gives you a +2 to your Persuasion roll and lowers your wealth die one die type. A raise gives you the same +2 to your roll but leaves your wealth die the same. You may use Bennies on wealth die rolls, if you desire. If you fail, you lose a die type and you get no +2. If you crit fail, you lose a die type and you take a -2, as the person or people you tried to bribe are offended.

The amount of information you get will depend on the number of successes you rack up while networking. I am assuming a baseline of 1 success per character, but am ready to give you guys more (or less) information should you get more (or fewer).

As always, if you have any questions, let me know on Discord, and good luck!

Curse of the Crimson Throne GM Bennies: 3/6

Lost Colony GM Bennies: 7/6

Dark Frontier GM Bennies: 6/6
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White Castle
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Re: Chapter 2(b): A Tense Welcome

Post by White Castle »

Castle responds like a kid holding his breath waiting for the edge of a bridge or the end of a tunnel. He had feared that things would have gone much worse.

"Honorable Judges. Personally, I would like to thank you for the opportunity to be in your marvelous city."

"Being a student of the past it will give me great pleasure to sight see and at the same time help your cause."

Opening his field computer, he begins annotating his notes on Psyscape.

"Just a couple of quick questions if I may?"

Assuming the Judges Agree
The buildings in Psyscape
A) Covered in glyphs or markings like writing
B) Covered with murals, frescos, reliefs or other large art pieces

Another question, where is the library?
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Pursuit
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Re: Chapter 2(b): A Tense Welcome

Post by Pursuit »

White Castle wrote: Thu Jun 04, 2020 1:20 pm
"Just a couple of quick questions if I may?"

Assuming the Judges Agree
The buildings in Psyscape
A) Covered in glyphs or markings like writing
B) Covered with murals, frescos, reliefs or other large art pieces

Another question, where is the library?
Judge Iasus, being the one standing, smiles at Castle's eagerness. "There are a multitude of libraries here, as you might imagine. There is a rather large one here in the Halls of Government, and another one primarily on military history at the Psi-Warrior Headquarters next door. The largest is in the Academy, though. The
See page 113 of Arcana & Mysticism
is almost as old as the city itself; we will see to it that a pass is sent to your quarters so you may have unrestricted access. You may even choose to sit in on a lecture or two while you are here, if you've a mind for learning."


"As for our buildings, I think you will find that no two portions of the city are quite alike, and neither are any two buildings. There are murals and art pieces aplenty, and more glyphs and runes than even I can count."

Describe some of the artwork, the culture, the murals, the glyphs, or anything else of note that you see while exploring the city. Make it good and get a benny. Psyscape has been around for millennia, so you should be able to find almost anything there. We will likely be back in this city a few times, so let's flesh it out some together, shall we?
Curse of the Crimson Throne GM Bennies: 3/6

Lost Colony GM Bennies: 7/6

Dark Frontier GM Bennies: 6/6
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White Castle
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Re: Chapter 2(b): A Tense Welcome

Post by White Castle »

Pursuit wrote: Thu Jun 04, 2020 1:44 pm
White Castle wrote: Thu Jun 04, 2020 1:20 pm
"Just a couple of quick questions if I may?"

Assuming the Judges Agree
The buildings in Psyscape
A) Covered in glyphs or markings like writing
B) Covered with murals, frescos, reliefs or other large art pieces

Another question, where is the library?
Judge Iasus, being the one standing, smiles at Castle's eagerness. "There are a multitude of libraries here, as you might imagine. There is a rather large one here in the Halls of Government, and another one primarily on military history at the Psi-Warrior Headquarters next door. The largest is in the Academy, though. The
See page 113 of Arcana & Mysticism
is almost as old as the city itself; we will see to it that a pass is sent to your quarters so you may have unrestricted access. You may even choose to sit in on a lecture or two while you are here, if you've a mind for learning."


"As for our buildings, I think you will find that no two portions of the city are quite alike, and neither are any two buildings. There are murals and art pieces aplenty, and more glyphs and runes than even I can count."

Describe some of the artwork, the culture, the murals, the glyphs, or anything else of note that you see while exploring the city. Make it good and get a benny. Psyscape has been around for millennia, so you should be able to find almost anything there. We will likely be back in this city a few times, so let's flesh it out some together, shall we?
"Just as a matter of past experience. Sects and secret organizations need some form of communication."

"In a pre-Rifts city it was once observed that artwork on buildings was used to relay messages and directions."

"In a similar fashion, if glyphs or runes have been found, that are out of place for a particular area, then that could also be an indicator or operational communication by a sect."

"As to the libraries and lectures. I would be delighted. Especially if they included photos and were in regards to art and history."

"Thanks again for your time."
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Vargan Orok
Posts: 80
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Re: Chapter 2(b): A Tense Welcome

Post by Vargan Orok »

Hedge raises an eyebrow at the Judges' response. It is rare for them to be so forthright, perhaps they are more afraid than they are willing to admit. Evil may be constant but from what Hedge has seen out there in the world, it has never also been this prevalent. Nxla is a horror to be stopped, but now is one of many. Allies and support will be necessary - and even then maybe not enough.

The idea of staying in new digs appeals to Hedge, going back to his old stomping grounds is a trip down memory lane he'd rather avoid. Then, suddenly, it becomes unavoidable. Spies in Psycape. How can a city of master psychics be so compromised? The implications of it cause Hedge to suddenly crave a cigarette. He almost lights one up before remembering where he is.

Grunting quietly he sets his face like flint and heads for the exit, lighting a smoke as soon as he gets outside.

"They put us up in a nice spot. I'll show you around the place, then I gotta go reconnect with a few people who might be able to help. If they're still speaking to me."

As the leave the Halls of Government and head to the Consolate Hedge points out a few things. "The Consulate, like Psyscape itself, straddles the physical world and the Astral Plane. Things can get a little wonky in there sometimes. If you see something weird or dream something crazy, assume there's a meaning behind it or at the very least you've been mind probed.Hurst less than a cyber docs probe, but no less invasive really." He thumbs the crystal amulet around his neck, "The halls are lined with the scales of Crystal Dragons who feel in the last fight against Nxla. It reminds all our allies of the sacrifices we made for one another, but they make the link between the two planes stronger. Anywhere in town you see crystal like that, know a creature of great courage fell to make that possible. The Consulate is nice, but for my money Cloud City has the best crystal lattices in town."

After they arrive Hedge takes a few minutes to get up the courage to start reaching out to old contacts. It takes a little time to track down old friends and acquaintances, but eventually the Cyberknight makes contact with the few who remain. To his surprise they are happy to see him. Taking some time to remember fallen comrades Hedge asks about happenings in the city, mostly with genuine curiosity but also with an ear toward uncovering spies. His ears perk up when he hears about some disillusioned defenders who talk of fighting the inevitable. That sort of despair usually leads right into the soulless void. Keeping a few notes, he sets to attend a meeting of the disenfranchised who gather in the backroom of a shop in the Bazaar. While many may just be war weary vets, a recruiter for this spy network might lurk there looking for susceptible recruits.


Persuasion 1d6!!: [3] = 3
Wild 1d6!!: [2] = 2

Benny
Persuasion 1d6!!: [16!!] = 16
Wild 1d6!!: [4] = 4
Vargan Orok (Ranger)
Bennies 3/3, Conviction 2/2
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Falderol Grelemis
Posts: 78
Joined: Wed Mar 04, 2020 10:02 am

Re: Chapter 2(b): A Tense Welcome

Post by Falderol Grelemis »

Intimidation: 1d6: [4] = 4
Wlid: 1d6: [2] = 2


Billy walks around the city not real sure what he is supposed to be looking for. He decided to go check out this zoo thing as he has some experience with livestock. He was surprised and the diversity of animals to be found. As he was looking at a particularly odd looking hexapod he overhears someone mention Nxala. Trying to be subtle he edges over and listens in. All he catches is an agreement to meet but not where. As the two seperate Billy assesses the two people and decides to 'question' the smaller one.

Following him around a corner Billy grabs him by the back of the shirt. Lifting him slightly off the ground Billy holds him to the wall and quietly growls out his question. "Where is this meeting to take place?"

Fear is in the target's eyes but so is a bit of defiance. "The bazaar. On the street with the blue and red awnings."

Dropping his target Billy turns and walks away. That should prove helpful.
Full Sheet
Parry: 7
Toughness: 9(3)
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Dazzle
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Re: Chapter 2(b): A Tense Welcome

Post by Dazzle »

Repair 9 Raise!
-1 difficulty, +1 field kit
Repair 1d6!!: [9!!] = 9
Wild 1d6!!: [3] = 3
Performance to earn some credits, possibly support roll for the Networking Persuasion 3; CRITICAL FAILAURE! GAH!
+2 Very Attractive
Performance 1d8!!+2: [1]+2 = 3
Wild 1d6!!+2: [1]+2 = 3
Technical Difficulties 4 - Serious problem; -2 when using her sound system.
1d6: [4] = 4
Networking 6
-2 crit fail support, +2 Very Attractive, +1 Fame, +1 Glitter Boy
Persuasion 1d6!!+2: [4]+2 = 6
Wild 1d6!!+2: [3]+2 = 5
Psyscape
Afternoon
Round 0

Dazzle and the others walked through the mists, finally finding the Psyscape city gates. The Orb was safely tucked away and hidden. As they approached, a squad of warriors of some kind surrounded them, demanding to know their purpose for coming to Psyscape. Dazzle even had to dismount and be searched.

“Hey, don’t touch anything,” Dazzle warned. “I just got it repaired. We’re with the Tomorrow Legion. Half our squad should have arrived here days ago. We had to split up,” she explained.

At the mention of the Tomorrow Legion, someone sent a runner, who returned shortly and conferred with the guard captain. The inquisition at the gate was quickly wrapped up, and they were led to a large, ultramodern building of glass and steel.

“Whoa,” Dazzle said, amazed. She was given a place to park Princess, and shown to some rooms.

“Um...it’s like, all glass,” Dazzle said, looking around. “Like, what if I have to change clothes?”

“The opacity of the glass can be altered,” the concierge said, showing her how.

“Cooool,” Dazzle said, playing with the room’s control pad, able to alter everything from the glass to the bed to music, and even order food if she didn’t want to go out to the cafeteria or one of the many varied restaurants in the neighborhood.

“We will alert your friends that you have arrived,” the concierge told her.

“Thank you. Now where’s the bath!” Dazzle enthused.

The first thing Dazzle did was take a long, luxurious bubble bath, washing out the grime of the last month on the road. She sent off her suit to be cleaned as well. Sitting in Princess for that long, away from civilization, could make one pretty rank! Using the tablet room control, she ordered a bit of room service, and also ordered Princess a full wash down, inside and out.

They had a team meeting that night around dinner. The consulate had even provided a chef! Dazzle counted her credits and found she could afford a bit of a wardrobe, nothing too fancy, but she got a nice little pink dress to wear to the dinner.

The others that had come to Psyscape filled them in on the Nxla situation in the city. Apparently there was a bit of a cult problem, and they wanted their help to root it out.

“Not a problem,” Dazzle said. “I wanted to check out the city anyway..”

Before heading out to the city, Dazzle finished up the repairs she needed to make on her armor’s targeting system, finally getting the problem fixed.

That posed a bit of a problem. Dazzle didn’t have enough credits for a way to get around the city. She solved that problem by just taking Princess out, hoping walking around the city in a giant set of pink power armor wouldn’t cause too many problems. She got some curious stares, and a lot of people getting out of the way, but no one seemed to have too much of a problem with it, and she took pains to be extra careful.

The city was a bit of a wonder, but Dazzle settled in the Bazaar. She found a place where there were a lot of people busking for entertainment, playing various instruments or performeing for the shoppers as they passed by. Thinking that a wonderful idea, and needing the credits, Dazzle found an open space and parked Princess. She opened her up and hopped out with her DJ deck. Dressed in tight jeans and a cute pink top, headphones on, Dazzle mixed out some tunes for the passersby, putting out a cred reader for donations.

Unfortunately, that was when the sound system gave a poof of smoke and squealed out in protest.

“Damn it!” Dazzle cursed. The new wiring must not have been able to hold the current. Her performance kind of petered out, and people sniggered at her as they passed.

Dazzle sat in Princess and pouted, but then realized she needed to get on with trying to find this cult, so she started asking a few passersby.

***

Technical Difficulties: Serious Problem: -2 when using the audio equipment in the armor. Repair -2. 20% cost in parts.
Character Tracker
Dazzle Character Sheet
Pace: 14; Run d8 (60 mph); Swim 6/6; Run d6; Parry: 6; Toughness: 40 (25 MDC)/11 (5)
Bennies: 1/3
Conviction: Y
Credits: d0
Boom Gun: 100/100; 2 reloads (100 each)
Pistol: 24/24; 2 reloads (24 each)
Encumbrance: 53/40 (33/40 without pack)
First aid kit: 3/3
Laser Resistant (Armor): Half damage and AP from lasers
Quick: Redraw initiative 5 and under.
Fame: Make double pay with Performance
Hindrances: Impulsive, Driven, Loyal
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Squidge
Posts: 53
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Re: Chapter 2(b): A Tense Welcome

Post by Squidge »

As they came out from the judge's chambers, Squidge's head was already spinning. Supporters of Nxla? In Psyscape? How was that even possible?!

They'd have to be shielding their minds and emotions, she figured. It wasn't unusual for people to have some level of guard up around the city...there were enough sensitives around that keeping 'mental radiation' to a minimum was a matter of public decor. So they wouldn't necessarily be easily detected...but she figured there'd have to be something there, some difference.

But to find it, she'd have to scan more deeply, and you couldn't just walk around doing that randomly. It was viewed as similar to breaking into someone's house. Probable cause. So...she needed a lead.

First things first though. It had been awhile since she'd been home. She left the crystal spires of the central city behind and went to the more rustic houses out on the outskirts of the city, closer to the mists, where fields stretched between streets, and the opaline orbs that connected psychic communications were fewer and farther between. A cluster of cottages had been built, and in one of those were her parents.

Squidge called ahead telepathically before showing up, just to make sure she wasn't intruding, and they met her out in front of the house with a great deal of hugging and squealing. Then catching them up, at least on the details she could tell them, on her mission to Castle Refuge. Then sitting through the latest town gossip. There weren't many 'psi-ghosts' in Psyscape, but the few there were had banded together into this little community within the city. And that got her thinking.

So Squidge went out after finishing up the family connection and started asking some of the other psi-ghosts around. Had they seen anything odd going on? Any people skulking about, looking furtive?

Rolls: Networking 6
Complication? 1d4: [2] = 2
Persuasion 1d6!!+1: [4]+1 = 5 Wild 1d6!!+1: [5]+1 = 6
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White Castle
Posts: 147
Joined: Sun Apr 07, 2019 10:13 am

Re: Chapter 2(b): A Tense Welcome

Post by White Castle »

Twist 1d4: [1] = 1
and nothing dramatic.

Castle leaves the Halls of Government with the others and since they have been given nearly free reign of the city, Castle begins rattling off details as they pass various pieces of architecture and art.

"These buildings here were from the Kingdom of Babylon. Notice the hanging gardens from the second stories. Seems that was a popular feature from that time period and not just found in artistic renderings."

He touches the wall of one particular building. Then thinking more on it he pulls forth his computer and runs a scan on the building. "Yup. Nearly six thousand years old."

"It would seem that Psyscape has been on Earth ... numerous times."

Following the others, Castle is lost in thought. Talking more to himself, "Egyptian. Mayan. Tang Dynasty."

He stops once more. "
CEP (Research) +2; Investigator (Research) +2; Research 1d10!!+4: [1]+4 = 5 Wild 1d6!!+4: [2]+4 = 6
?"
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