M – SPACE

E L E VAT I O N
first contact

michael larrimore
 INTO THE UNKNOWN
Elevation was a proud organisation of
brave explorers, seeking new
worlds and alien species.

Now, 40 years later, its founder has

been lost in space. Funds dwindle,
outdated equipment falls apart and
Elevation’s few remaining
starships barely work.

But a small team of die-hard explorers

refuse to give up. The search for new
aliens ready to join the galactic com-
munity is much too important to
leave to shady corporations
and criminals.

M-SPACE is needed to make full use

of the book, but it is compatible with
most d100 games.

FrostByte Books 9 789198 239355

E L E VAT I O N
first contact

michael larrimore

FrostByte Books

 E L E VAT I O N
written by michael larrimore

cover art by axel torvenius

interior art by clarence redd, dan mckinnon and

jerome gautier

design and layout by clarence redd

special thanks to
pete nash and lawrence whitaker

This product references the Mythras

Imperative rules, available from The Design Mechanism at
www.thedesignmechanism.com and all associated logos and
trademarks are copyrights of The Design Mechanism. Used with permission. The
Design Mechanism makes no representation or warranty as to the quality, viability, or
suitability for purpose of this product.

ISBN: 978-91-982393-5-5
© FrostByte Books 2019. All rights reserved


 Contents

Introduction006

Field Operations 008

Divisions of Elevation 013

Key Personnel 021

Circles028

Technology034

Intergalactic Law 045

The Galax y at Large 052

Aliens070

Little Drone Lost 078

The Broker 092

Brave New World 116

Scenario Hooks 142

Non-Player Characters 145

Vehicles and Starships 162


 INTRODUCTION

M ost fans of science fiction are probably familiar with the classic voice over that
started every episode of Star Trek, and for me the line that always stood out
was “to seek out new life and new civilizations.” In a limitless universe it spoke of
limitless possibilities for other cultures, both foreign and oddly familiar. Creation in
a million different forms just waiting to be discovered, or to discover us. Our history
has been driven by exploration, first of our own little planet and now our dreams of
going beyond as the unknown calls out to us, begging to become the known.

That is the foundation of the Elevation campaign setting and the adventures con-
tained within these pages. Characters will hurtle themselves out into the vast, deep
dark of space in search of the weird, the dangerous, and the mysterious. They will
plant a flag on alien worlds and do their best to defend strange new cultures from
those that would take advantage of them. It is a freeform campaign setting designed
to take advantage of M-Space’s alien creation and world building systems, meaning
that no two campaigns will ever be the same and something new lurks in every plan-
Opposite: A Kleev, the killer robots used
etary system your characters explore. More than anything else, the galaxy of Elevation
by the cybernetically enhanced K’taar
species. is yours and will be whatever you and your gaming group make of it.

6 INTRODUCTION
INTRODUCTION 7
 FIELD OPERATIONS
TRAINING MANUAL
A Message from our Founder

W elcome to our family here at Elevation! You are about to embark on the ad-
venture of a lifetime as we work together to bring light to the darkest parts
of unexplored space. Our goal is to seek out life in all its amazing and wonderful
forms, and ensure that whatever form that life takes it enters our galactic com-
munity in the best way possible. Through education and advocacy, we will ensure
that these burgeoning neighbors will find equal footing among those of us that
explore the stars, and join us in the search for whatever lies out in the endless
horizon of the universe.

If you are here, then odds are you share the same passion that drove me to leave
behind my home. That you have the same daring spirit that drove our ancestors to
hurl themselves into the cold void to uncover its secrets. And the same sense of
justice to make sure no one is treated unfairly, enslaved, or abused. History has
too many examples of an advanced culture supplanting a less advanced one, and
we seek to change that. It is our duty to protect those who are just taking their first
steps into the larger society of the Milky Way, and to stop those that would exploit
others for their own gain.

The operations manual you are reading is just the start of your training here at
Elevation, and when you are ready you will join your new family in exploring the
unknown. Together we will shed light in the darkness and represent those who need
guidance in the next stage of their development. Welcome to Elevation, and thank
you for wanting to be part of our important journey.

Marcus Earther,
Founder and Operations Director of Elevation

8 FIELD OPERATIONS
<< JEar012:

I would also like to welcome you to Elevation, and apologize up front for its
current state. My grandfather built an amazing organization with the best
intentions, but his vision of discovery unfortunately did not come to pass. As
I’m sure you are aware, the Gres were the last civilization advanced enough to
enter the galactic community, and since that time no other sentient species has
been found. When your whole mission is to facilitate entry into the galaxy
for new cultures, it makes it difficult to keep the lights on. While we have
been able to keep Elevation af loat for the past ten years, we’ve had to make
some compromises and cut some expenses. One of those expenses was the
publication of a new operations manual, so I will do my best to update and
amend our existing one to get you up to speed.
Despite the setbacks, our goals remain the same. We use the resources we still
have to explore the unknown parts of space in search of habitable worlds and
cultures advanced enough to approach regarding entry into the greater galac-
tic community. Upon discovery, Elevation will do whatever we can to serve as
first contact facilitators and ensure fair treatment of said species according to
established galactic law. Until every resource we have left is exhausted, that is
my life mission.

I am happy to have you here, but I am not my grandfather. In these pages I

will tell you what it is really like out there, and how to keep yourself safe. I
will also do my best to pay you when I can, but I make no guarantees. If you
are here, then you are an idealist, a fool, or have no where else to go. But if
you are willing to stick it out, I am happy to have you at my side for as long
as you are able. I still believe in the ideals my grandfather taught me, and I
hope you will too. >>
Juhi “Jules” Earther,
Operations Director of Elevation

FIELD OPERATIONS 9
Elevation Characters
Mission Statement
Player characters for Elevation are
generated in the standard manner as All sentient beings have the right to fair and equitable treatment in the greater ga-
presented in the M-Space core rule-
lactic community, and Elevation will help facilitate their entry into said community
book. Players may also choose any of
by providing advocacy, education, and representation in legal and financial issues.
the alien species presented in this book
Elevation also recognizes the importance of exploration, and will act as part of the
with the Games Master’s permission,
using the attribute generation values effort to chart and catalog newly discovered planetary systems as per the guidelines
presented in each species description. established by the Accords of Planetary Domain.

While there are no restrictions on what

type of character a player can make,
Elevation takes great pains to match
operatives together on a team where
their skills can complement each oth-
er and aid in the goal of exploration
and facilitating first contact. Diversity
makes for the best team, with a variety
of social, technical, and combat skills
to help the player characters deal with
any situation. There are also some
variant campaign ideas throughout the
book labeled as “Alternate Timelines”
which give suggestions on other ways
to play in the setting. Ultimately Eleva-
The Story of Elevation
tion is about exploration of an unknown
When a new habitable world is discovered, it can become a new source of minerals,
galaxy, so feel free to shift the focus to
whatever your group enjoys. exotic foodstuffs, potable water, and a site for potential colonization. When a new
civilization is discovered, it is one of the most valuable resources that can be found.
Sentient beings bring new ideas, new skills, and their own history, but to some they
are nothing more than a new workforce or a new market for goods.

Elevation began when Marcus Earther made first contact with the species known as
the Gres, and it was in that fateful meeting that a new idea was born. He knew that if
the Rajolans or one of the mega-corporations found them, the Gres would enter into
a trade deal that would ultimately benefit the Merchant Guild or the corporation but
not their people. If the K’Taar found them, the Gres would be enslaved or worse to fuel
the eternal war machine of K’Tarra. The Gres needed someone to act on their behalf to

10 FIELD OPERATIONS
 A Diverse Skill Set
make sure their own traditions were preserved and they were not overwhelmed with
technology and knowledge far beyond their comprehension. So, on that day, Marcus The default Elevation campaign is a
mix of social interaction, exploration,
Earther dubbed himself a “first contact facilitator” and vowed to do everything he
and action, but often skills that are not
could to help his new friends.
common choices for most players can
Over the course of several months, Marcus and his friends spent time learning the make a big impact in the setting. When
negotiating with aliens, known or un-
Gres language, immersed themselves in their culture, and negotiated with their lead-
known, skills like Bureaucracy, Com-
ers to come up with the best strategy to introduce Gresol to the galaxy. By the time
merce, Courtesy, or Politics could be
they were ready to use the Binding Orb, Marcus had constructed an intricate treaty
very helpful. When trying to decipher
that would benefit the Gres first and foremost. He remained on Gresol for another year an unknown language or bit of script,
after the agreement was finalized to make sure the agreement was followed to the something like Knowledge: Linguistics
letter and no one else swept in to take advantage of the Gres. could be vital. Encourage your players
to go beyond the normal choices and
As a reward for his assistance, the leadership of the Gres agreed to pay Marcus a when they do, be sure to make use of
service fee equal to 0.00001% of their trade income for the first ten years after entry those skills in creative and interesting
into the galactic community. This proved to be a substantial sum, and Marcus imme- ways. For example, when dealing with
diately invested it in what would eventually become Elevation. He established courses the business-minded Rajolans, some

at several universities in the new field of “first contact negotiation” and gathered a expertise in Commerce might be more
effective than Influence or Deceit.
staff that would be suited to building his new organization. The money from the Gres
helped fund much of the groundwork, but additional funding came from government Pulp (Science) Fiction
programs, private investors, and select corporations to expand Elevation to the orga- If you want to let your players make
nization it is today. characters that are a bit more hardy,
you can use this optional rule to make
Elevation continues to grow each day, and we seek to recruit the best people to aid
them (and significant NPCs) a bit more
in our mission to bring the light of civilization to the unknown places of the galaxy. durable. If you are using the standard
Our efforts have lead to a rise in exploration from multiple sources and interests, and character creation rules, calculate hit
while it helps to expand the galactic community we realize that some organizations points using 1.5xCON+SIZ using the
do not share our altruistic mission. This makes what we do even more important, and table on page 14 of the main rulebook,
or x2 if you want exceptionally durable
we must seek out undiscovered lifeforms and make sure they receive the same fair
heroes. If you are using the simplified
treatment that our founder gave to the Gres all those years ago.
combat system, characters don’t suffer
a serious wound until they reach 0 hit
points and a major wound until nega-
tive the character’s total hit points.

FIELD OPERATIONS 11
 << JEar012: And then everything changed. My grandfather spent twenty years and
countless billions of trade units searching for another sentient culture, and while
Elevation mapped dozens of new planets none of them had life beyond feral beasts or
microbial organisms. No one else found a sentient species either, so in time the boom
of exploration started to fade. The Rajolans decided it was better to invest in their
existing clients, the corporations worked towards colonization, and the independents
found more money in shipping and trade.

Elevation was another passing trend, and soon the grants and investors started
disappearing. Staff was laid off and resources were sold or mothballed in favor of
supporting what programs were still the most viable. There was still value in locat-
ing new systems and planets, but not to the extent a new civilization would bring.
Alternate Timeline: My grandfather still believed in Elevation’s original mission, and fifteen years ago
The Glory Days he set off in a Starseeker with a few survey drones and his loyal linguistics robot in
The standard Elevation campaign re- search of the next big find. No one has heard from him since.
volves around a time when the orga-
I took up the mantle shortly after his disappearance, hoping to preserve the legacy
nization is on the decline and looking
for a way to restore itself to its former he built for me. Around that same time a claim by the Rajolans renewed interest in
glory. As an alternative, you could set galactic exploration. Footage was broadcast of ruins located on a recently discovered
the campaign in the early days of El- planet, and the Rajolans claimed it was a lost colony from their early days of inter-
evation when Marcus Earther is still stellar exploration. There have been many disputes to that claim, although no one
around and in charge. At that point in
has been allowed access to the site and the Rajolans have kept the matter tied up in
time the organization is well-funded,
the same galactic courts that they helped create. But once again independents and
well-staffed, and optimistic about their
chances of finding new life. And who’s corporate scout ships are traversing the far reaches of space in search of the next
to say in this alternative timeline it great find. Elevation is part of that, and with your help I believe we can still fulfill
won’t happen? The default tone of this my grandfather’s dream. >>
timeline is pulpy, with high adventure
and dangerous perils on the fringe of
the galaxy. If this sounds fun, have your
players strap on pulsors and head out
in their Starseeker to battle the K’Taar
and usher in strange new lifeforms at
the edge of known space.

12 FIELD OPERATIONS
 DIVISIONS OF ELEVATION
Autonomous Data Analysis and Collection (ADAC)
Sending out manned ships to the most remote sections of space is a costly and
dangerous prospect, and the history of interstellar travel has a long list of names
of explorers who never made it back. Our personnel are the most valuable resource
Elevation has, so we do not send missions out to unknown systems without collect-
ing as much data as possible. To help with information gathering we utilize custom
modified Ranger class deep space autonomous survey drones. Designed for single
use data collection, these state-of-the-art robots are capable of wormhole jumps up
to 250 light years through a designated focal gate or when launched from one of our
Starseeker scout ships. Once at the location, the Ranger deploys advanced scanning
systems to gather information on all planetary and stellar bodies before sending back
a tight beam info dump via a miniature focal gate that is housed within the drone.
While this burns out the drone’s power source, it allows us to use the collected data
for analysis before we decide if a manned mission is needed. The Rangers are invalu-
able to our cause and have saved countless man hours and lives thanks to their use.

<< JEar012: We still use the Ranger class survey drone, but we can’t afford to be so
cavalier about leaving them in the middle of nowhere once they send back their data.
Currently we have twenty that are functional, with another ten slated for repair and
refueling. I believe it is worth sending one out before any mission, but I also believe

DIVISIONS OF ELEVATION 13
 in recovering them when we get to our destination. It’s also important to closely
monitor their info dump transmissions. On several occasions we’ve lost out in the
race to claim a new planet because the transmission was intercepted by data pirates
or corporate monitoring satellites. That is why I instituted a policy that all transmis-
sions go to Farsight Station to reduce the chance of interception. >>

Bonneville Multiband Deep Space Monitoring Facilit y

<entry deleted>

The Lost Colony

<< JEar012: I had to sell this five years ago to refuel our ships. >>

Although it restarted the drive to ex- Canton Advanced Holographic Environmental Simulation Facilit y
plore the unknown, the ruins discov-
<entry deleted>
ered by the Rajolans have remained a
point of contention within the galaxy. << JEar012: I had to sell this two years ago to repair our survey drones. >>
They are the only ones who have had
access to the planet, and the system is Farsight Station
protected by an automatic fleet of their In orbit around Neptune’s moon Triton, Farsight Station is a state-of-the-art research
security ships. A few leaked images facility with one of the most powerful space telescopes ever built. Capable of multiple
have made their way into the hands of
frequency band observation, the telescope allows Elevation to collect data on distant
enterprising conspiracy theorists who
systems from the comfort of our own solar system, aiding in our efforts to locate stars
claim the ruins actually belong to a
theoretical lost civilization that predat- with the best chance of having habitable planetary bodies within their orbit. The sta-
ed the Rajolans. Some of those same tion also includes a fully equipped ADAC laboratory so information collected can be
theorists expand upon their specula- studied on site to speed up the detection process. To date Farsight Station has aided
tion, claiming the reason the Rajolans us in locating three planets that are capable of supporting life, although they are still
protect the site so fiercely is that is
at very early stages of development. We rotate the active duty staff on the station ev-
contains either technology beyond their
ery three months, and all Elevation personnel are expected to contribute to the efforts
own, or that they were responsible for
the destruction of the ancient civiliza-
of maintaining Farsight so we can have it for years to come.
tion and they want to hide the evidence. << JEar012:I have fought tooth and nail to keep Farsight Station, although I’ve had to
While Elevation does not interfere with
make a few concessions over the past few years to keep it in Elevation’s possession.
galactic affairs, curious player charac-
I’ve allowed select universities and corporations to rent out time there for research
ters have a way of getting embroiled
in galaxy-spanning plots so the lost and training, and it has let me keep the lights on. Since the original training manual
colony may prove too tempting a target was written, the equipment there has located another four planets with potential for
to pass up. life, so I know the value. With our current staffing issues, rotations on board have

14 DIVISIONS OF ELEVATION
 been extended to a year for those who volunteer, and I ask any who are willing to Linguistics Software Package
make time to visit the station and learn about the work we do there. >> Elevation uses a specialized program
that uses samples of an unknown lan-
Linguistic Analysis Division (L AD) guage to develop a database of com-
With each new civilization comes a new form of communication that must be under- mon words and syntax to aid in com-

stood before negotiations can begin. To prepare for this, our R&D division has created munication. The more samples the pro-
gram has to work with, the better the
several complex programs that can use samples of a new language and derive the
database and the more accurate the
basic structure to aid in communication. These programs are loaded into the personal
communication. In game terms, each
computers of field agents or onto autonomous support robots that accompany some hour of samples of native speakers us-
of our exploration missions. The software is not foolproof and it is vital that field ing the language is equal to 1% of skill
agents spend time observing a species before attempting initial contact. That time in the language for the database, to a
also allows the software to collect more data, giving it a better chance to come up with maximum of 40%. The program aids
in basic concepts and communication,
the best interpretation of the form of communication used by the civilization.
performing immediate two-way trans-
<< JEar012: Although our linguistics software has not seen much use, it is still a vital lation when used, and it can act as a
part of our standard gear and will be instrumental if we are able to locate a new teaching tool for characters who want

sentient species. We load the software onto the slates and wristcomps of new em- to invest experience rolls in learning
the language. Note that the translation
ployees, and on the few remaining X-O series of robots that can be requisitioned for
software only works for languages that
field missions. Just remember what it says above about the software not being infal-
use visual or auditory forms of com-
lible. It would not do us any good if you rush things and accidentally tell the planet’s munication. If the language relies on
representative that his mother’s posterior is the size of a small moon. >> something more exotic, such as pher-
omones or telepathy, the software is
Research and Development (R&D) useless.
Our cutting edge research and development facility in Dallas helps ensure that Eleva-
tion remains on the forefront of technological advancment in our search for intelligent
life. With a team of forty engineers and scientists.

<< JEar012: I’m going to cut things off right there before you get too excited. R&D was a
victim of budget cuts seven years ago, at least in its original form. I had to let a lot of
good people go and that was not an easy choice. Luckily they all landed on their feet,
but it left us in a bit of a bind. Dr. Galdus, our head of research, agreed to remain,
although her ideas are a bit... unique. Our chief mechanic Ryson and our doctor
Thorn also come up with their share of innovative ideas and solutions, although you

DIVISIONS OF ELEVATION 15
 don’t want to let Thorn use you as a guinea pig. We have become an organization
that needs to make due with what we have, and be creative when we need to. It’s
why I seek out individuals who are willing to contribute whatever talents they have
to keep Elevation going, and I am always open to listening to whatever new ideas
they bring to the table. >>

The Starseeker Fleet

To aid in our goal to map the unknown regions of the galaxy, Elevation has acquired
twenty state of the art Starseeker class scout ships from the Houston shipyards. Out-
fitted with a class D spin generator and five portable focal gates, the Starseekers can
create wormholes up to maximum of 100 light years distance and the drive can travel
up to 800 light years on a standard allotment of nebulium before needing refueled.
Each ship can comfortably accommodate ten crew members for up to six months,
allowing for extended exploration missions without need for resupplying. We have
also modified each ship so they can carry two deep space automated survey drones,
and they are capable of both launch and recovery of said drones. For surface based
missions, each Starseeker is also equipped with an all-terrain rover and two liftbikes
to aid in scouting out new worlds. Our Starseeker fleet has been outfitted with a stan-
dard armament of turret mounted twin pulse lasers and a rack of eight high yield tor-
pedoes to help defend against hostiles. We believe our fleet will put us at the forefront
of space exploration and new recruits will be given specialized training to get up to
speed on these amazing ships.

<< JEar012: We don’t have a “fleet” of ships anymore. We still have five Starseekers,
although currently only two of them are working. And since the company that made
them went out of business years ago, parts can be hard to come by. Due to recent
increases in the price of nebulium, they are given enough for about five wormholes
at maximum jump distance, and we try to outfit each one with one survey drone
if we have enough working or repaired. That means when we send a crew out, we
have to do our research first to ensure that the mission is a valid one. I don’t want
to have a crew lost on my watch, or stranded in the middle of nowhere with no way
back home. I also make sure there are enough provisions and weapons on board to
maximize survival in case an unexpected situation occurs, but we currently only
have two working rovers and six extra liftbikes. >>

16 DIVISIONS OF ELEVATION
Sur vey and E xploration Division (SED)
By far our most active and vital section, Survey and Exploration is what Elevation is all
about. The dedicated members of SED take data collected by the research divisions
and head out into the unknown to discover what lies around each unexplored star we
find. Field agents are made up of a specialized team of scientists, pilots, first contact
facilitators, and security, all working together to keep each other safe and to use their
training to gather additional information on the systems they are sent to. We make
sure our field agents have the best equipment we can purchase or create in house to
help keep our personnel safe and to ensure they have the right tools for the job. These
missions are the lifeblood of Elevation and represent what we strive to accomplish,
so it is up to all divisions to do their part to make sure our SED teams have everything
they need to succeed.

Farsight Station in orbit around Neptune.

DIVISIONS OF ELEVATION 17
 << JEar012: SED remains the lifeblood of Elevation, but gone are the days of dedicated
field agent teams. At this juncture our SED teams are pulled from volunteers that
are part of all remaining divisions, although I still try to match up team members
with the best skill sets to properly conduct survey and data collection missions. I
include myself in that pool of volunteers since I was practically raised in the halls
of Elevation’s offices. We also don’t have the luxury of sending out multiple ships
with cutting edge equipment, so we limit SED missions to leads that have the most
promising data. As I said before, I won’t risk the lives of the people who work for me
unless we’re absolutely sure the risk is worth the reward. >>

Elevation
Organization (Exploration)

Ideas: Equality, Newness

INF 8
Attributes: Dedicated Followers 65%, Legal
SIZ 2
45%, Strong Leader 70%, Welfare 75%
RES 9
Traits: Altruistic, Discovery of New Worlds

18 DIVISIONS OF ELEVATION
“I’m going on record that this is a terrible idea.”

Sorgus crossed his metallic arms over his broad chest, eyes narrowing as he
looked across the field towards the forest. One eye glowed with dull green light,
and Marcus knew the big cyborg was scanning the creatures hiding in the trees.

“Recorded that Mr. Sorgus has proclaimed this a bad idea,” a chipper voice said
from behind them. XO-1 hovered over the tall grass, the robot’s gravity engines
displacing the plants underneath him.

“You say all my ideas are bad,” Marcus said, doing his best to drown out his
companions as he looked through his binoculars. He could just make out the
lanky shapes of the aliens, their fur and drab clothing blending in with the bark
of the thick trees. In the week they’d been there, this was the closest they had
been to the natives. He could feel the tingle of excitement building as he watched
the nervous aliens staring back at them.

“I’m usually right,” Sorgus said with his usual level of cynicism. “Isn’t that right,
XO?”

The robot drifted up closer to Marcus, his unfailing cheerfulness sounding grat-
ing in the moment. “Based on past ideas vocalized by Mr. Earther, my records in-
dicate seventy percent of them have proven to be dangerous or had poor results
after Mr. Sorgus voiced concern.”

“Thanks, XO.” Marcus frowned as he handed the binoculars back to the robot.
After a moment’s hesitation, he also unbuckled his gun belt and dropped it to the
ground. XO dutifully picked it up.

“Are you sure you don’t want to hold on to that?” Sorgus said, his cybernetic
hands keeping a firm grip on his rifle. “Those clockwork crossbows they are hold-
ing are primitive, but they’ll still pierce your heart at two hundred meters. Or
your eye. Or your lung...”

“Duly noted,” Marcus said, and with a deep breath he started walking towards
the trees, hands out at his side. Behind him Sorgus was still naming body parts

DIVISIONS OF ELEVATION 19
 that were about the be perforated, but he ignored it. He focused on the aliens
ahead of him shifting in the dense undergrowth. Marcus thought about what
would happen if the Rajolans found them. Or the corporations. He didn’t know
if he was the best choice to bring them into the galaxy, but he was definitely a
better one.

The closer he got, the more nervous the aliens looked. Their long tails flicked
back and forth. Their fur stood up around their necks. The clockwork crossbows
raised up into firing position. Maybe this was a bad idea…

20 DIVISIONS OF ELEVATION
 KEY PERSONNEL
<< JEar012: This used to be a more extensive list, but budget cuts have trimmed it down
quite a bit. While the listing below doesn’t encompass all of Elevation’s staff, I will
try to go over the key personnel who will be assisting you. >>

Marcus Ear ther

The Earther family has been part of deep space travel from the very beginning, going
so far as to change their surname so future generations always knew where they came
from. Marcus Earther is proud to carry on his family legacy, exploring the stars and
seeking out new lifeforms to join us alongside our growing galactic brethren. We all
know the tales of his clashes with the K’Taar, his efforts to take down the cruel Red
Pirate, and his discovery of the ancient ruins of the legendary Mor’artai. During his
travels he chafed against the exploitation of more primitive cultures by aggressive
species and greedy mega-corporations that saw profits instead of people. He was
fortunate enough to locate a new species on the planet Gresol and alongside some
like-minded allies he aided the Gres in gaining fair trade and resource rights within
the intergalactic legal system, serving as a first contact facilitator. Using the resources
and contacted he gained, he founded Elevation and he continues to lead us into a
bold and exciting future.

JEar012: I debated removing this entry since my grandfather has not been seen for
nearly fifteen years now, but I couldn’t do it. He is the reason we are all still here,

KEY PERSONNEL 21
The Fate Of Marcus Earther and he will always be part of Elevation. You may encounter a holographic version
Adventurer, explorer, and hero, Marcus of my grandfather if you visit our archives, and since it is built from his personal
Earther is meant to be larger than life. memoirs and recordings it can be uncannily accurate to the man he was. I still hold
Modeled after pulpy science fiction he- out hope that he is still out there somewhere, and it keeps me out there exploring. >>
roes, he can serve as a good example
for player characters to live up to. His Juhi “Jules” Ear ther
absence nearly destroyed Elevation and
You might encounter young Juhi if you spend enough time in our main offices, and
the organization still feels the effects
please take time to say hi to the next generation of the Earther family. She already has
of his disappearance. His final fate is
up to you to determine if you decide to her grandfather’s desire to explore, and it would surprise no one if she carried on the
make that part of your campaign. The family tradition when she’s old enough to join our team here.
simplest answer is that he died, one of
the many victims of the dangerous life
<< JEar012: OK, I really need to delete that entry. I think I was seven at the time that
was written. I have tried my best to carry on our legacy, even when other members of
of a space explorer, but he could also
have been captured by a K’Taar war- my family said to quit. My grandfather taught me everything I know, including how
ship or pirate raiders, left stranded on to negotiate with the unknown and how to defend yourself when those negotiations
a distant world a la Robinson Crusoe, go bad. The most important lesson I learned is to put the welfare of others above
or vanished into some bizarre deep your own. We live in a time when life is more of a precious commodity than any
space anomaly. Even in his seventies
mineral, technology, or currency. There are good people out there, but there are far
he would remain surprisingly spry and
too many who would take advantage of a less technologically advanced culture for
he could turn up to bail the players out
of a sticky situation. You could also take their own gain. There may not be another sentient species in the galaxy, but I won’t
things in a different direction and re- stop the search so I can make sure Elevation is the first one present if there is. >>
veal some of his heroic deeds were fab-
ricated and he was not the great hero Ryson
the stories made him out to be. His When Marcus Earther and his crew landed on Gresol, a skinny, shaggy youth was
disappearance can serve as a good plot the first one brave enough to approach their ship. Ryson was an orphan and Marcus
thread for your campaign if you choose
quickly took the boy under his wing as they worked together to understand each oth-
to give your players the opportunity to
er’s language and culture. Ryson was instrumental in forging the relationship between
see where the thread leads.
humanity and the Gres, and when all was said and done Marcus adopted the young
Gres as a symbol of the two worlds’ unity. Now a young man, Ryson has been part of
Elevation since day one and he continues to exemplify how the galaxy can be brought
together the right way. Fascinated with the very ships that first landed on his world,
he has become an expert mechanic and helps train new recruits in starship operation
and repairs.

22 KEY PERSONNEL
<< JEar012: Ryson is one of my best friends and my good-natured uncle in addition to
being an employee. Whenever I don’t know what course to take he is always there
to steer me on the right path. His presence is also the cause of some bad blood in my
family. My father was jealous of the attention my grandfather gave to Ryson, and
when I decided to take over Elevation my dad stopped talking to me. I know it affects
Ryson and he blames himself, but he is true believer in my grandfather’s dream and
I want him by my side until the end. And if you need anything fixed, he’s the best
Gres for the job. >>

Thorn
A recent edition to our Elevation family, the Aarqun known as Thorn trained under the
Thellar Council of Biodynamics on his homeworld and is a highly skilled and decorated
physician and healer. While his primary area of expertise is Aarqun biology, he is a
quick study and has been taking time to learn how to treat the many lifeforms of our
galactic community with the same skill as he treats his own people. Please be sure to
say hello if you see him, but also excuse any communication difficulties since he is
new to both Elevation and the diversity and wonders of Terra.

<< JEar012: Since the Aarqun communicate primarily through their innate telepathy,
they stopped using written or spoken names long ago and instead use complex psy-
chic signatures to identify each other. That was problematic when they became part
of the galactic community, so the ones who live off of Aarquen adopt simple names
that reflect some key aspect of their personality. Thorn chose the perfect name be-
cause he is sharp, prickly, and generally unpleasant. He is also brilliant and one of
the most skilled physicians I’ve ever met. Just be sure to remind him how important
anesthesia is before he operates and try to excuse his complete lack of bedside man-
ner. Or empathy. Or tact. >>

Dr. Emma Galdus

One of our senior R&D staff, Dr. Galdus served as faculty in the Imperial College of
London before she worked in the private sector as a researcher and engineer. She
joined our team here at Elevation a few years ago and has become an integral part of
the creating new technologies to aid in our missions. She served as team manager for

KEY PERSONNEL 23
 the development cycle of the X-O series of robotic assistants and is currently working
on a defensive gravitonic shielding system for our Starseeker ships. We expect great
things from Dr. Galdus and her team, so please introduce yourself if you have the
chance.

<< JEar012: Dr. Galdus is basically our R&D department at this time, and while she is
brilliant she is also a bit... eccentric is the nicest word I can think of. She maintains
a lab on Farsight Station and that is where she spends most of her time, coming up
with strange and bizarre projects that only make sense to her. Somehow most of the
things she creates actually work, although sitting through her explanation of how
they function can give you a migraine. We do market some of her more normal and
mundane devices for extra funding, and I funnel as much of that as I can back into
her research. She is still working on her gravitonic shield, which has become Dr. Gal-
dus’ ‘white whale.’ We have a basic version installed on our remaining Starseekers,
but she keeps promising me an improved version ‘any day now.’ >>

Quincy Sorgus
As one of the crew that discovered Gresol, Quincy Sorgus was an integral part of the
foundation of Elevation. A former soldier in the Terran military, he moved into private
security after an unfortunate accident left him with extensive cybernetic modifica-
tions. After becoming unlikely friends with Marcus Earther, he gave up his job to serve
as security for their exploratory missions into the unknown parts of space. When El-
evation was formed, Mr. Sorgus signed on as chief of security and has remained in
that role ever since. He takes his new job seriously, and does his best to help protect
our organization’s staff and sites so we can continue our mission.

<< JEar012: Sorgus had a falling out with my grandfather about sixteen years ago, right
before the fateful mission where he disappeared. I know the big cyborg has never
forgiven himself for that, and he returned to Elevation shortly after I took over to
serve as my chief of security. Despite being in his late seventies, Sorgus remains one
of the best combatants I’ve ever seen and I would always want him on my side when
the going gets rough. If he offers to train you, I recommend you take him up on it but
be sure to have some good painkillers ready when he is done. >>

24 KEY PERSONNEL
KEY PERSONNEL 25
 “How many do we have?”

As massive as the hanger was, in that moment it felt like it was closing in on
Marcus. Somewhere XO-1 was talking, but it sounded distant and indistinct.

“Fifteen Starseekers are finished, and the shipyards estimates the other five will
be complete within two weeks.”

“Two weeks,” Marcus repeated back, the words not really registering. He was
dimly aware of the shiny new starships that filled the space. They were stacked
on tiered platforms, much like the parking garages in downtown Houston. And
they were his.

“...nebulium shipments on Friday,” XO droned on. Apparently the robot had still
been speaking during Marcus’ daze. “I also need to confirm delivery of thirty
crates of personal body armor. And I need you to sign off on the purchase order
for the lift cycles. They are having trouble matching the paint color you request-
ed, but their representative assured me it will be corrected.”

“Right, lift cycles. Color.” Marcus’ eyes didn’t want to focus, and there was a dull
ache growing in his stomach.

“Are you well, sir?” XO asked from beside him. “Your heart rate is elevated and
your pupils are increased in size by a factor of twenty percent.”

Marcus leaned back against the wall, hoping it would keep the hanger from
spinning. His voice sounded very quiet through the roaring in his ears. “How did
we get here, XO?”

The robot turned his optic sensor towards him. “We got here in your personal
lift car, sir. Are you experiencing some form of memory loss? Perhaps it is some
residual effects of the virus you contracted on Aroosia.”

“That’s not what I mean,” Marcus said with a sigh. He waved his hand in the
direction of the ships. “I mean all this. A fleet of ships. Crates of supplies. Hiring
all these people. What the hell are we doing?”

26 KEY PERSONNEL
XO hovered in closer, one of his thin manipulator arms unfolding from his chas-
sis. The rubberized claw maneuvered over to rest on Marcus’ shoulder in an
awkward attempt at a reassuring gesture.

“We are fulfilling your dream, sir. That is what you said before. I can play the
recording if you need a reminder.”

Marcus stared into XO’s optic sensor. On the display under it an emoji of a smile
appeared. Many responses went through Marcus’ mind, but in the end he just
said, “Thanks, XO.”

The robot gave one more quick pat to his shoulder and then resumed reciting the
seemingly never ending list of equipment as Marcus slowly slid down the wall
as his legs finally gave out.

KEY PERSONNEL 27
 CIRCLES

Elevation is just one of many organizations making their mark on the galaxy. The fol-
lowing are some other circles your player characters may encounter, either as allies
or as adversaries, and can serve to give your campaigns friends and foils to expand
beyond the adventures presented within this book.

The Merchant’s Guild

Organization (Trade)
INF 19
Ideas: Group (Rajolans), Wealth
SIZ 17
Attributes: Connected 90%, Cultural Heritage
RES 20
80%, Legal 90%, Media 75%, Politics 85%,
Sanctions 95%, Security 80%, Spread 65%,
Territory 75%
Traits: Business Focused, Economic Growth,
Trade Regulations

With a history stretching back two thousand years, the Merchant’s Guild is the bed-
rock of the Rajolan people and unites them in their ambitions of governing trade and
commerce. In many ways the Merchant’s Guild serves as the formal government of

28 CIRCLES
the Rajolans, as it enacts rules and regulations that form the basis of their interac-
tions within their culture. As the galactic community expanded, the Merchant’s Guild
has allowed other species to petition for entry into the organization as long as they
adhere to the Guild’s regulations. Their overall goal is fair and equitable trade among
all members, and one of the worst crimes imaginable to the Rajolans is to cheat or
swindle another member of the guild. This guideline does not apply to anyone outside
of the Guild’s sanctions, so buyer beware.

With influence in nearly all aspects of galactic commerce, the Merchant’s Guild is
easily the most powerful organization in the setting. From establishing economic
standards for the value or trade units to regulating business practices and licenses,
the Guild has more power than most planetary governments. In most cases the Guild
serves as a background element in the Elevation campaign, but crossing one of its
members can quickly leave the characters in a sticky spot if they need to purchase
something or get aid from the Rajolans.

CypherCorp
Corporation (Technology) INF 15

Ideas: Power, Wealth SIZ 9

Attributes: Black Ops 55%, Connected 65%, RES 17
Fear 70%, Info Retrieval 60%, Legal 70%, Media
50%, Politics 50%, Secrecy 75%, Security 65%,
Territory 45%, Troops 60%
Traits: Expansionistic, Greedy, Immoral

One of the largest corporations on Terra, CypherCorp only came into being a few de-
cades ago but it has expanded rapidly thanks to aggressive takeovers of many of its
competitors. Their meteoric rise has brought about many questions regarding their
business practices, but CypherCorp has managed to avoid deep scrutiny thanks to
lucrative bribes and other underhanded tactics. They are involved in countless en-
terprises around the galaxy, even establishing their own colony called Neo so they
can control all aspects of operations there. Now CypherCorp aggressively pursues any

CIRCLES 29
Alternate Timeline: Acquisitions Cor-
leads into other habitable worlds so they can further expand their power base. This
porate: As an alternative, a campaign
has brought them into conflict with the Rajolans as well as other mega-corporations
could focus on characters who are
in their search for profitable worlds to exploit. It has also caused them to take an
members of one of the acquisitions
teams, either serving their paymasters interest in Elevation, and woe to any field agents that cross paths with the dangerous
loyally or looking for a way out after CypherCorp Acquisition Teams.
having a change of heart. CypherCorp CypherCorp represents the worst of corporate greed and ambition, and is meant to
has limitless resources and equipment
serve as an antagonist in the Elevation setting. They are ruthless in the pursuit of their
far beyond what is available to Elevation
agenda, and out in the relative lawlessness of the galaxy they can literally get away
agents, but they also have few scruples
and treat their employees as another with murder. Acquisition Teams are especially dangerous to player characters. Made
expendable resource. If your group pre- up of genetically engineered soldiers known as EnGees, they try to acquire rights to
fers morally gray campaign full of ac- planets through any means necessary and have no problem removing any competing
tion, this might be a good alternative. claimants to a newly discovered planet.

INF 12 Krayson Industries

SIZ 7 Corporation (Production)
RES 15 Ideas: Wealth, Tradition
Attributes: Connected 45%, Functional Stupidity 50%, Legal 55%,
Politics 40%, Security 50%

Alternate Timeline: A Fresh Start: In-

Traits: Diversified, Looking to Expand
stead of starting the characters as field One of the largest mining and manufacturing companies in the Sol system, Krayson
agents for Elevation, they could be part
Industries has been attempting to expand its operations into space for many years
of Krayson Industries’ nascent explora-
now. Most of their ventures have been focused on the asteroid belt in their home sys-
tion program. While the equipment and
ships might be better, Krayson is not as
tem, and while it has been very profitable they know the resources of the galaxy are
well organized or terribly compassion- limitless. Unfortunately Krayson Industries does not have experience in deep space
ate about the welfare of their employ- exploration. To that end, they have begun recruiting people with the skills they need
ees. If anything, Krayson would be more to develop their growing space exploration program.
focused on recovering expensive star-
With Elevation on the decline, recruiting agents from Krayson may try to lure player
craft before the crews that man them.
Perhaps the characters see a better
characters away with promises of lucrative salaries and limitless resources. While they
alternative in working for Elevation, if are not a malevolent organization, Krayson Industries does not have the most altru-
only they can find a way out of their very istic goals in mind with their space exploration program. Because they are often in
complex employment contracts with direct competition with CypherCorp, the characters may find a mutual ally in Krayson
Krayson. against the evil mega-corporation.
30 CIRCLES
The Order of Science INF 4

Ideology (Technology) SIZ 4

RES 14
Ideas: Egoism, Independence, Enlightenment
Attributes: Dedicated Followers 70%, Functional Stupidity 55%, Secrecy 60%,
Security 55%, Strong Leader 55%
Traits: Doctoral level scientists only, Follow the will of the Prophet

Most cultures have strict regulations that limit the realms of academic and scientific
experimentation so as not impinge on the moral standards that serve as the backbone
of society. Seeking a place to conduct their research without restriction, a group of
scientists found a home on Neo thanks to CypherCorp’s flexible morals. Despite their
loose ethics, the scientists knew they needed guidance to determine what were the
best research projects to focus their energies on. To that end, they developed a com-
plex artificial intelligence dubbed the Prophet, a massive supercomputer that guides
every action of the Order. Over the years the membership of the Order of Science
has grown, and their research complex on Neo has expanded to several city blocks.
CypherCorp allows them leeway on how they pursue their experiments as long as the
corporation gets first crack at any lucrative innovations the Order develops.

The Order of Science pushes the boundaries of science and engineering every day,
and their compound is home to some truly wondrous things and some things that
should never be known. The Order of Science can serve as a dangerous enemy, but
most of their members are more eccentric mad scientists than evil masterminds, so
the perils they create are often unintentional.

CIRCLES 31
 INF 5 The Table of Avalon
SIZ 2 Organization (Security)
RES 12
Ideas: Peace, Group, Tradition
Attributes: Black Ops 65%, Dedicated Followers
Alternate Timeline: Rocket Knights: In- 75%, Info Retrieval 45%, Secrecy 85%, Security 70%,
stead of focusing on Elevation, as an Strong Leader 55%
alternative the player characters could
Traits: Only those approached may gain entry, Dress
be new recruits for the Table of Avalon.
code (futuristic knights)
As a secretive, benevolent organiza-
tion with deep pockets and a mission
When Avalon embraced the Arthurian legends that gave the colony its name, many of
to keep the galaxy safe, this could play
the existing personnel were quick to go along with the medieval themes to help with
out as an action packed battle against
the evils of the galaxy. With a few modi- the growing tourist trade. The local private security that policed the colony joined in
fications, the Table of Avalon could be as well, adopting the roles of “knights” that served to keep the colony safe. Several
re-skinned as a clandestine organiza- members of the security firm took things a step further after their captain did more
tion of secret agents who work to topple research into the legends they were emulating. They decided to be true to the char-
malevolent forces that attempt to mold
acters they modeled themselves after, even going so far as to take on code names
the galaxy to their own sinister designs.
based on members of the Knights of the Round Table. Now they act in secret to not
In you are using this option, CypherCorp
could serve as a front for an enemy or-
only keep Avalon safe, but also to do what they can to help those in need around the
ganization and their goal to discover galaxy. Known as the Table of Avalon, these space age knights vow to stop the wicked
new planets could actually be part of and protect the innocent.
a greater plan to establish bases to
The Table of Avalon is designed to serve as an ally to the player characters, helping
strike out in an attempt to conquer all
of known space. them out of tight spots or asking for assistance with a particularly difficult threat. They
can also serve as a patron for characters, offering membership if they prove them-
selves to be true heroes. In a campaign with a morally ambiguous slant, the Table can
act as potent adversaries, or even as a conscience for wayward characters to get them
back on the right path.

32 CIRCLES
The Pirate Confederacy INF 6

Organization (Criminal) SIZ 7

RES 15
Ideas: Egoism, Anarchy, Wealth
Attributes: Cellular 70%, Fear 65%, Secrecy 55%,
Spread 65%, Troops 45% Alternate Timeline: Starfaring Swash-
bucklers: As an alternative, a campaign
Traits: Open only to pirates, Labor union
could focus on characters who are
When the people and businesses of the galaxy moved out into the stars, the scourge working their way up in the Confeder-
acy to become the best space corsairs
of piracy moved right along with them. Haunting common trade routes and lurking
in the galaxy. They would need to make
near established focal gates, pirate vessels can be a serious threat to cargo ships and
names for themselves and navigate
poorly armed travelers. But pirates also have limited resources and few safe ports to
the aggressively competitive hierarchy
hide out in, so several years ago a group of enterprising space buccaneers decided to of the Confederacy while avoiding the
band together for their mutual benefit and formed a labor union for pirates. Known as duplicitous nature of the other bucca-
the Pirate Confederacy, the group offers resources, crew members, and safe havens neers that are members. Or the char-
to those willing to pay a percentage of their plunder as dues. Some of the groups that acters could be independent privateers
who are approached by members of the
have joined include the Void Tigers (flamboyant space buccaneers), the Freebooters
Confederacy. Are they willing to risk
(expert data hackers), and the Vellack Syndicate (space mobsters).
coming into conflict with the power-
The Pirate Confederacy is meant to serve as an antagonist to the player characters, ful organization to keep their freedom?

giving them an ample supply of criminals to battle or play the hero as they rescue in- Perhaps they secretly work for a law
agency or corporation and are tasked
nocent travelers from the predations of dastardly marauders. If they get wind of the
with infiltrating the Confederacy to
characters having potentially lucrative coordinates to a valuable planet, the Pirate
learn more about how it operates. Will
Confederacy will consider them high priority targets and send out ships to intercept they be able to play the role of pirates
the characters at all costs. or will they be uncovered and be forced
to walk the airlock?

CIRCLES 33
 TECHNOLOGY
Field Operative Standard Kit
While each mission needs its own specialized gear, we issue all field operatives a
standard kit to give them essential equipment that our agents have found to be es-
sential during operations. You will receive the following items when you complete
your initial orientation and training: an Excelsior model 7 wristcomp outfitted with a
type III personal A.I. assistant, a standard planetary survival pack, a first aid module
featuring Autodiagnoz software, and a lightweight environmental suit with vacuum
seal upgrade. Field operatives are also fitted for class B personal defense armor and
given a sidearm of their choice, although these items are only issued when out on
assignment. Additional gear can be requisitioned on an as-needed basis depending
on what the mission needs, and your direct supervisor will provide you with the neces-
sary forms to request additional items.

<< JEar012: The standard kit has stayed the same, but is a bit outdated compared to
more recent equipment that is available on the market. My grandfather’s people
stockpiled quite a bit of the above gear, and since much of it is “last generation” we
couldn’t really sell it, so we make do with what we have. We also have supplies of
more advanced computers, survival gear, and weaponry if needed, but they are lim-
ited so we only give those out when necessary. >>

34 TECHNOLOGY
Standard Gear
Wristcomps: Made of a thin band of computer plastic, wristcomps are devices akin to
the modern smartphone. They act as communicators, store data, use apps, navigate
using local databases, and record audio and video. They can also access the dataweb
(the setting’s term for the internet) as long as a global network is present. The device
can display limited two-dimensional holographic displays and is voice activated. It
also uses mild electrical stimulation to simulate haptic feedback to give a tactile sen-
sation during use. When paired with special goggles or contact lenses, it can produce
detailed augmented reality overlays and allows for more complex operations. 350 TU

Personal Artificial Intelligence: PAIs are another common technology of the setting,
functioning like an advanced virtual assistant. They are most often used to search for
information or operate other connected technology, but PAIs are capable of much
more. Each one has specialized skill software to aid the user in specific tasks, gaining
a number of trained skills equal to its type rating (so a type II has two trained skills
while a type IV has four). One skill is primary and has a rating of 70%, and other skills
have a base rating of 50%. A PAI’s skills are technical or knowledge based since it is
incapable of physical action. A standard type III issued by Elevation has Courtesy as
the primary and one specific Culture and Language as additional skills. At least one
member of a survey team also has the linguistics software detailed above on his or
her wristcomp. When hooked up to a database, an hour of work and a successful Com-
puters check allows one of the current skills on a PAI to be switched out for another,
but the character must have the appropriate software for the new skill readily avail-
able. 250 TU per rank of rating, new skill software costs 100 TU per skill

Planetary Survival Pack: The survival pack comes in a durable polycarbonate back-
pack and contains specialized supplies to help in hostile or alien environments. It has
an inflatable two-person vacc tent with a 48 hour atmosphere recycler, dehydrated
rations for seven days, a water purification insulated mug, a solar powered lamp with
recharging port, a small plasma torch, a survival knife, and a small emergency beacon
with orbital range. 400 TU

First Aid Module: This module is an automated first aid kit that aids in the treatment Note: Prices listed here are in Galac-
of wounds, toxins, and illness. The kit contains coagulants, artificial skin patches, tic Trade Units (TU), the most common
pain relievers, broadband antitoxins, a small cache of powerful antibiotics and anti- currency used in the known galaxy.

TECHNOLOGY 35
 radiation medications in auto-injectors. It also contains a basic set of sterilized surgi-
cal tools. On its own this kit allows standard use of the First Aid and Medicine skills to
treat injuries, poisons, and diseases up to five times before the supplies are used up.
The Autodiagnoz software has a basic A.I. with the First Aid skill at 65% and the Medi-
cine skill at 50%. While the kit cannot perform medical aid on its own, it can direct
users via voice instructions and videos so they can substitute the kit’s skill values for
their own when making a check to diagnoe or treat another character. 750 TU

Lightweight Environmental Suit: Stored on spacecraft or vehicles, lightweight envi-

ronmental suits help protect against dangerous or toxic environments without adding
significant bulk to the wearer. With the helmet attached the suit protects against poi-
sonous atmospheres, mild acids, and intense heat or cold. The suit can also be easily
modified to serve as a vacc suit, protecting against full vacuum with an eight hour
supply of breathable air. It does not provide an armor value, and if the wearer takes
any damage the targeted location suffers a rupture. The suit is equipped with four
sealant patches that can be applied to a ruptured area as an action. 950 TU

Defensive Technology
Sometimes the best defense is a good offense, but we also know that a good suit
of armor will keep you around long enough to fight back. Here at Elevation we try to
ensure all our field agents have at least basic training in the defensive gear we offer,
and they are equipped with the latest protection available. Class B personal defense
armor is standard issue, and we also have several powered options in case there is a
serious threat indicated for an exploration mission.

<< JEar012: Yeah, we had to sell off the power armor a few years back. We needed
the money for some repairs to Farsight Station, and frankly the licensing fees were
pretty hefty on those things. We still have quite a few suits of Class B and Class A
armor, but if you have access to something better I recommend you bring it along
with you. Also Dr. Galdus keeps babbling to me about something called a “gravitonic
aegis,” but I’ve learned to just nod my head when she talks about stuff like that. >>

36 TECHNOLOGY
Armor

Type AP Skill Modifiers Hit Locations Cost

Class A 2 None All 500 TU

Lightly armored jumpsuit

-5% to Head/Chest/
Class B 4 1000 TU
Perception skills Abdomen

Moderately armored blast vest and helmet

-10% to
Class C 6 All 2500 TU
Physical skills

Heavy tactical armor, used by military and security forces

-25% to
Power Armor 10 All 100000 TU
Physical skills*

Heavy powered armor. Can operate 6 hours before needing a 12 hour charge. While
powered, skill penalties reduced to -10%, damage bonus increased by two steps, Ath-
letics and Brawn are increased by +20%, and jump distance is five times normal. Sen-
sors add night and thermal vision and increase Perception by +10%

May parry melee and ranged attacks up to Colossal

Gravitonic Aegis 50000 TU
force

After a successful parry, there is a 40% chance that the aegis will fail and it will not
work again until given a 4 hour recharge from a power source

Offensive Technology
We know that not everyone in the galaxy shares our benevolent ideals, and there are
those who believe violence is the only option when conflict arises. While Elevation
prefers more diplomatic means of resolution, we outfit our field operatives with ap-
propriate weaponry to defend themselves if negotiation fails.

TECHNOLOGY 37
 Gravity Weapons: Developed by the Rajolans centuries ago, gravity based weapons
use spin technology for offensive purposes. Powered by minute nebulium cartridges,
gravity weapons fire small bursts of intense force to disable or incapacitate targets.
Cussors are relatively non-lethal sidearms that launch small kinetic spheres that bat-
ter and bruise anything they hit. Pulsors use focusing irises to channel the force into
a thin but extremely deadly needle of energy, tearing through armor and flesh with
ease.

Laser Weapons: Pulse laser weaponry is common on spacecraft, and smaller versions
serve as the primary sidearms of the Terran armed forces. While they are considered
antiquated by more advanced cultures, pulse lasers remain an effective weapon ca-
pable of burning through heavy combat armor and hull plating given enough time.

Mag Weapons: For all the developments in energy weaponry, sometimes there is
nothing better than a fast moving bit of metal when dealing with an enemy. While
chemical propellant firearms still exist, often on smaller colonies or among more
primitive cultures, firearms that utilize magnetic acceleration to launch projectiles are
much more common and cheaper than energy based weapons.

Plasma Weapons: The K’Taar have developed many deadly weapons over the years,
but plasma-based guns have been a mainstay for their armed forces for some time.
Firing superheated bolts of plasma, these deadly weapons melt through armor and
cause terrible burns to anything they hit. K’Taar weapons also have an alternate firing
mode that projects a stream of white-hot plasma at short range, much like archaic
flamethrowers, and their Kleev robots use this to clear our tight clusters of enemies.

<< JEar012: As much as I’d like to say weapons aren’t essential pieces of gear, a few
too many run-ins with space pirates and Kleev war bands have made me realize
otherwise. My grandfather told me guns should always be your last resort, but this
is the same man who gave me a cussor for my twelfth birthday, so clearly there are
lots of ‘last resort’ situations out there. And for your reference, plasma burns hurt
like hell. Avoid them. >>

38 TECHNOLOGY
Weapons

Ranged Weapons Damage Range Fire Rate Load Capacity Cost

Cussor Pistol 1d8 4/12/50 1 3 10 750 TU

Cussor Rifle 1d10 8/25/75 1 3 20 1500 TU

Cussor weapons knock the target back 1 metre unless a successful Brawn check is made, if the legs
are targeted the target must make a successful Athletics check or be knocked prone

Laser
1d6+1 7/25/50 1 3 15 350 TU
Holdout Pistol

Laser Pistol 1d8+1 10/30/120 1 3 30 500 TU

Laser Rifle 1d10+1 30/100/300 1 3 50 1100 TU

Lasers ignore 2 points of the target's armor

Mag Holdout Pistol 1d6 5/15/90 1 3 6 250 TU

Mag Pistol 1d8 20/100/200 1 3 12 450 TU

1/3 rnd
Mag Rifle 1d10 50/200/500 3 30 1000 TU
burst

Mag Shotgun 1d10 5/15/40 1 3 12 750 TU

Mag rifles may fire short bursts of 3 rounds to increase damage to 2d6

Plasma Pistol 1d8+1 8/24/100 1 3 12 2000 TU

Plasma Rifle 2d6+1 25/75/300 1 3 24 5000 TU

Plasma weapons may use the Sunder special effect to damage armor

Pulsor Pistol 2d4 10/30/120 1 3 10 1250 TU

Pulsor Rifle 2d6 30/100/300 1 3 20 2500 TU

Pulsor pistols ignore 2 points of the target's armor. Pulsor rifles ignore 3 points of the target’s armor

TECHNOLOGY 39
Cybernetic Replacements
Melee Weapons Damage Size AP/HP Cost
A character who has suffered perma-
nent hit point loss for a hit location, or Molecular Blade 1d6+2 M 4/8 300 TU
has suffered the loss of a limb or or-
Molecular blades ignore 2 points of the target's armor
gan, may choose to have a cybernetic
replacement installed to regain full Stun Stick 1d6* M 4/6 150 TU
functionality. Cybernetics restore the
area to its full original hit point value Can use Bash and Stun Location special effects, if a location is reduced to a
and have an inherent armor rating of 1. serious wound it is stunned for minutes instead of turns
Replacing lost sensory organs restores
the lost sense.

With the Games Master’s permission a Medical Technology

character may also integrate a single
small piece of technology into the cy- The galaxy can be a dangerous place, and going into the unknown exposes our people
bernetic replacement by paying double to threats the likes of which no one has seen before. We try to stay on top of medi-
the cost of the gear installed, or qua-
cal innovations since our field operatives could be potentially exposed to some new
druple the normal cost if the integrated
alien pathogen, and we do our best to make sure treatment is readily available. Our
item is either retractable or completely
hidden. Holdout weapons and small
Starseekers have fully stocked med bays and our main facility has a fully functioning
blades may also be installed for the ten bed hospital with a surgical suite. We also have a comprehensive health insurance
same costs, and a cybernetic part may plan, including coverage for cloned or cybernetic replacements if needed.
be armored for a cost of 500 TU per ad-
ditional point of armor up to a maximum
<< JEar012: We don’t have health insurance anymore. Well, we have minimal cover-

armor rating of 5. Note that power cells age, but you might be better getting your own plan. We still have the hospital suite
and ammunition for integrated items here at the main office, but Thorn is our only doctor on staff and like the insurance
are still required, and the artificial parts you’d be better going to your own doctor than dealing with him. We do maintain the
have access points to reload. med bays on our ships, and in the field they are invaluable when you are injured,
The character can choose whether or poisoned, or worse. I’d like to assure you that rarely happens, but my grandmother
not the cybernetic part is capable of said it’s wrong to lie. >>
registering sensation, and if it is the
Slap Patches: Using a combination of coagulants, painkillers, and advanced artificial
character can make normal touch-
based Perception checks with the re- nano-skin, slap patches were developed to aid in treatment of trauma on the battle-
placement but is also subject to wound field. They appear as squares of gelatinous tissue when removed from their packag-
penalties as normal. If the part does not ing, and one can be applied to an injured area as an action to immediately restore
register sensation, the character auto- 1d3 hit points of damage. Once a slap patch is used on a specific hit location, another
matically fails touch-based Perception ... can not be used on the same area until at least 12 hours have passed. If another one

40 TECHNOLOGY
 is applied before that time is up, the recipient must make a Hard Endurance check or
... checks but also does not suffer wound
penalties if the cybernetic hit location
suffer three levels of fatigue immediately. 150 TU
suffers a serious or major wound.

Cybernetic parts do not recover hit

Computer Technology points on their own and must be re-
paired. Repairing a damaged replace-
With the invention of data processing and storage plastic, computer technology has ment requires a successful Mechanics
check and one hour of time per 1d3 hit
become integrated into nearly all aspects of modern life. The average home has com-
points restored, and whoever is doing
puter plastic on most surfaces so technology is easily accessible, and even space-
the repair must have appropriate tools
ships have panels in every room so ship systems can be controlled from nearly any- and replacement parts. Installing cyber-
where. Elevation keeps up with the times and we have advanced computer systems netics requires a well-stocked surgical
within all our facilities and extensive databases that all employees have access to. bay and either a computer-assisted sur-
Also we have portable computer plastic slates available for operatives that need more gical robot or a skilled surgeon. Missing
any of these requirements upgrades the
powerful systems when out in the field. We also understand our tech savvy agents
difficulty of the Medicine check to install
prefer their own custom systems, and we can help provide the components necessary
the replacement part to at least Hard, if
to help them make their perfect rig.
not higher.

<< JEar012: I know eight languages, negotiation techniques from a hundred experts, The cost of a cybernetic replacement
and have mastered three martial arts, but computers terrify me. I can muddle my part costs at least 5000 TU for a hand or
way through basic functions, but they are not my area of expertise. We’ve been able an eye, with limbs and internal organs
to maintain the databases even with our downsizing, but I rely on people with a costing at least 10000 TU if not higher.

better understanding of computers than I have. We also still have portable systems
available, but unfortunately they are outdated compared to more current rigs. If
there is something you prefer, I ask you to look into your own system and I will do
my best to reimburse you if it’s necessary. >>

Starship Technology
While we don’t expect all of our staff to be expert starship mechanics or engineers,
we try to give each of you a basic knowledge of the inner workings of the spacecraft
that will be your home away from home when you are out in the field. Most of our
‘modern’ starship components have actually been used by the Rajolans for centuries,
but they remain highly effective and have allowed us to travel to distant star systems

TECHNOLOGY 41
Computer Plastic
with relative ease and safety. Below are some key concepts about how we travel to
Infused with miniaturized crystalline the far reaches of space.
storage and processing components,
this special clear polymer is the most The Orb and the Spin
common form of computer technology
Integral to both artificial gravity and deep space travel, the central component of
in the Elevation setting. It also has ho-
the gravitronic regulator at the heart of every starship is a sphere of a super-dense
lographic systems that allow for two di-
mensional displays and interfaces, but artificial material known as ‘nebulium,’ commonly referred to as the ‘orb.’ Nebulium
systems can also be linked to special was discovered by the Rajolans almost a thousand years ago in their attempts to
contacts or goggles to allow more intri- replicate matter similar to that found in a white dwarf star, and they were quick to
cate displays or even augmented reality harness its unique properties to aid in their exploration of the galaxy. When placed in
for the user.
a special electromagnetic field and set to rotate, referred to as the ‘spin,’ nebulium
Much like PAIs, most computers have creates an intense gravity field that can be channeled and redirected with specialized
integrated programs that act like skills, equipment. At the basic level, it allows a starship to have a constant, stable source
and each rig has a rating that indicates
of artificial gravity which makes life easier for those of us used to that fundamental
how many trained skills the computer
force of nature.
possesses. Computers are rated from
class I to class VI, and the rating indi-
The Rif t
cates how many trained skills the rig
possesses. The primary skill has a rat- Not long after its initial discovery, Rajolan scientists also applied nebulium to several
ing of 70% and all additional skills are theories they had about artificial wormhole creation. They developed technology that
rated at 50%, and like PAIs they are all allowed the intense gravitational energy of the material to be focused and directed
technical or knowledge based. Skills to create a short-lived wormhole that allowed travel of multiple light years within
can be changed with specialized soft-
the span of a few minutes. Known as the ‘rift,’ these artificial wormholes opened
ware, a hour of time per skill, and an
up the entirety of the galaxy once the Rajolans perfected ships with graviton fields
Easy Computers check.
that allowed travel through these rifts. A side effect of wormhole generation is the
Custom computers have specialized
progressive depletion of the nebulium orbs, each losing approximately three grams
apps and software that help their user
of material for every light year the wormhole stretches through space. Over the years
in specific situations, adding a bonus of
+5% to +15% to specific skills. Hacking rift drives have become more efficient and smaller, but the core design remains the
software adds the bonus to Computers same. Deep space automated probes use compact single use drives to reach their
skill, better search engines help with ... destinations, and within the last century the Rajolans have also introduced special-
ized comm arrays that use rift technology to transmit tight beam signals through near
microscopic rifts to make communications much faster and more efficient.

42 TECHNOLOGY
 Focal Gates ... Research, and education software as-
sists with the Teach skill.
The most important part of rift drive technology, focal gates serve to channel the
artificial wormhole to ensure accuracy when making a jump. Without a focal gate, A base Type I computer slate costs 350
TU, with the cost increasing by 250 TU
it is nearly impossible to achieve a precise jump and a ship can miss their destina-
per type rating beyind that. Special-
tion by a few Au, or even a few light years if the navigator is not careful. Focal gates
ized apps and software cost 200 TU per
need to be maneuvered into the optimal positioning to achieve the most accurate 5% bonus they add to the skill they are
jumps, which can take time and intricate calculations. Populated systems usually have linked to.
multiple dedicated focal gates in place outside the gravity well of nearby planetary
bodies, some large enough to accommodate massive freighters, passenger liners,
or battleships. Most starships also have a small supply of folding, one-use portable
focal gates to use when in a system without an established one. We try to ensure all
of our Starseekers have a fully compliment of these gates to aid in return trips from
unexplored locations, and that they are always in proper working order.

<< JEar012: Truth be told I’m not much of a ship jockey, although I’m a fair pilot. I tend
to rely on others to get me where I need to go, and I can’t emphasize how important a
good pilot is. I also can’t emphasize how important it is to know how much nebulium
you have left before you use your rift drive. The worst scenario a deep space explorer
can find herself in is to be 200 light years in the middle of no where with no way to
jump back home. >>

TECHNOLOGY 43
 With each step Marcus moved back, the Kleev hovered the same distance closer.
The robot’s single glaring red eye cast a bloody hue over everything, especially
the whipping tendrils that flailed under the armored bulk of its body. Marcus
watched the tendrils closely, keeping a close eye on the ones tipped in drill bits
buzzing like angry hornets. The Kleev already identified him as a threat and any
second the tendrils would lash out and bore through his all-to-soft flesh.

When it happened Marcus was ready. He’d fought enough of the K’Taar
robots to know how they operated, and how they killed. One tendril tried to wrap
around his arm to keep him from blasting the thing. Another darting in low, its
spinning tip curving upward to penetrate his chest and dig through the bone
right into Marcus’ heart. The Kleev attacked with the speed and precision of a
machine... and the predictability of one.

Marcus twisted his torso to the side, dropping his gun arm low. The trap-
ping tendril shot past, finding nothing but empty air. The twist was just enough
to cause the drill tip to miss him, whirring angrily past Marcus’ chin by a few
inches. He started into the baleful red eye, knowing internal sensors were reca-
librating and planning the next attack routine. Marcus never gave it the chance,
angling his lowered cussor pistol up so it fired into the mass of lashing tendrils.
In a flash of gravitonic pulses the Kleev was hurled back into the wall, tendrils
splayed out as its armored shell cracked from the impact. The red eye flickered
and went out, and Marcus let out the breath he’d been holding in before he
moved on, hopeful his friend was still alive somewhere in the K’Taar ship.

44 TECHNOLOGY
INTERGALACTIC LAW
While we don’t expect all of our staff to be experts in the latest technology, a dozen
alien dialects, and the inner workings of complex starships, we do expect them to
have an understanding of the galactic accords that govern the discovery of new sys-
tems and planets. Our entire mission is centered on exploration and discovery, and
nothing is more important to Elevation than following all the steps necessary to en-
sure we can be there to provide advocacy to new cultures upon their entry into the
galaxy. To that effect we present some of the key laws and processes involved so you
can gain the knowledge necessary to support that mission when in the field.

Accords of Planetary Domain

When the Rajolans changed their policies to allow for contact with other species, one
of the first things they established was the Accords of Planetary Domain to prevent
conflict over what division of the Merchants Guild could lay claim to a newly discov-
ered world. As more cultures became part of the galactic community, the Accords
were further modified to give all species and established corporate entities fair rights
in this process. While one species or corporation is not permitted to claim eminent
domain over the entirety of a system or planet, the Accords give the entity that made
the discovery first claim for mining, colonization, and development. If an intelligent
species is found, the native culture retains all rights to make decisions for their world
but the entity that discovers them gains a finders fee equal to 0.00001% of their

INTERGALACTIC LAW 45
<< JEar012: We’ve only had to deal with
trade income generated by the planet for the first ten years after the species is fully
the APD a few times since I’ve been in
integrated into the galactic community. For planets without native species or which
charge, but they have always been fair
are uninhabitable, the finder’s fee is based on guidelines established by the Accords,
and helpful with the processes and pa-
perwork required. There’s a lot of paper- determined by the approximate value of potential resources present on the planet.
work. I also know how paralyzing it can
As part of the Accords, an independent, neutral regulatory agency was developed to
be when you need to come up with a
survey any planetary body discovered to determine potential risks of development,
name for your newly discovered world.
My advice to you is don’t make the mis-
approximate value of resources, and the need for conservation of the ecology if it is
take of putting it up on the dataweb determined life could develop, or if existing life needs to opportunity to evolve with-
for the general populace to decide on a out interference. APD surveyors are taken from all spacefaring species that abide by
name. Just ask the poor workers who the Accords, and they are bound by rigid regulations and guidelines in their duties.
have to tell people they work on Snot- The Merchant’s Guild maintains strict oversight over the survey office and its staff, and
ball or Testiculous 69. >>
censure of employees who abuse their station is swift and harsh.

Authority on Planetary Registration and Claims

When survey data suggests that a solar system might have planetary bodies, there are
extensive protocols for how the discoverer can make a claim to explore said system
to gather additional data. The first step is to register the survey data with the local
office of the Authority on Planetary Registration and Claims, or the APRC for short.
Registration must occur as soon as possible to ensure no one else makes the claim
first, and it involves extensive documentation and confirmation of the survey data by
APRC representatives.

Once this part of the process is complete, the discoverer has thirty galactic median
days to conduct a more extensive survey of the system, establishing the number and
size of planetary bodies as well as any other stellar anomalies or objects within the
system. Once this data is collected, it must be beamed or delivered to the APRC as
soon as possible to establish the claimants as discoverers of the system. Elevation
prefers to do this by tight beam rift transmission, but due to of the risk of interception
delivery in person may be a better option. Claims are essential so things can proceed
to the APD and domain can be established.

If the survey data indicates the possibility of a planet that can or does support life,
there is an additional step in the process. When the data documenting the planet

46 INTERGALACTIC LAW
is received by the APRC, they will grant an extension of an additional thirty days to << JEar012: I can’t stress how important
this part of the process is. One mis-
determine the nature and extent of life on the planet. Data collection for this stage
step here could mean losing a claim on
must be meticulous, with biological samples taken and video footage of lifeforms col-
a newly discovered planetary body, al-
lected. If there is established sentient life on the planet, that information must be sent lowing someone else to step in and take
back to the APRC immediately. If the sentient lifeform is not of the appropriate level it from you. I also need to stress how
of development according to the Cultural Conservation Edict, the planetary system dangerous this part of the process is. If

will be declared off-limits so the species has the time it needs to develop along its you don’t do your research, don’t take
the time to gather data, or don’t take
natural course.
enough care approaching a newly dis-
If a sentient species is of the appropriate level determined by the Cultural Conserva- covered lifeform, you could end up in a
tion Edict, a petition can be made for an additional period of ninety days to study life or death situation all too easily. You

the species with the end goal of establishing first contact. At this time the APRC also also have to worry about claim jumpers
who will think nothing of shooting you
sends out a “binding orb,” a specialized sphere with nearly impenetrable security that
and leaving you in a shallow grave on
uses advanced biometrics to establish a legally binding contact between two entities.
an alien world so your claim runs out.
If first contact is established, the binding orb acts as confirmation that the discoverer Some of these scumbags are other ex-
was the one who completed the contact and is essential for gaining the finders fees plorers, but some are well-funded strike
associated with discovery. teams from major corporations. >>

Cultural Conservation Edict

Technically part of the Accords of Planetary Domain, the Cultural Conversation Edict
was added to help ensure that sentient species are given the freedom to develop
along their proper natural course without undue interference by more advanced spe-
cies. Much research has been done in the field of evolutionary xenopology and the
detrimental effects of uplifting a species before they are at a stage of cultural and
intellectual development capable of processing complex technology, scientific theo-
rems, and philosophical ideologies. The edict was designed to set strict guidelines
about the minimum level of development a species must achieve before they can
be approached for entry into the larger galactic community. Elevation follows these
guidelines to the letter, and we expect all of our field agents to do the same. By the
standards outlined in the edict, a newly discovered culture must have the following
before we are allowed to even considering making first contact with them:

INTERGALACTIC LAW 47
<< JEar012: Our own history shows why »» The species must have achieved a level of technology equivalent to the
the edict is so important. Humanity
pre-industrial or industrial level as outlined in the Cultural Conservation
gained much advanced technology from
Edict. This includes but is not limited to metallurgical processing tech-
our early interactions with Rajolan
representatives, and not all of it had niques, mass production of goods, established horticultural techniques
a good effect on our society. While we for the production of foodstuffs, and basic health and medical practices.
are resolute in our practice of following It is also recommended that the species have some form of means of
the Cultural Conservation Edict, I can’t communication across large geographic regions, such as a postal or news
say the same for other seekers of new
service, and established mass transportation services or they are capable
lifeforms. I’ve personally read inter-
of travel to distant areas of their planet.
nal memos acquired from sympathetic
CypherCorp employees that outline de- »» The species must have at least one major, established governing body
tailed plans to ‘artificially uplift’ spe- with a central seat of power. If there are multiple governing bodies, each
cies prior to contacting the APRC so the
must be allowed to participate in any negotiations following initial contact
company can stake its claim. >>
with majority vote deciding on entry into the galactic community. While
the edict does not pass judgment on what form of governing body is pres-
ent, it is preferred that the government allows representation and fair
treatment of all members of the species. No entity making initial contact
is to interfere or unduly influence the governing bodies of the species in
making their decision.

»» The species must have at least one form of written communication or its
equivalent and maintain dedicated records of its history, laws, and items
of cultural significance so those things can be preserved after contact. As
part of the edict, after initial contact during the time of transition efforts
must be made to grant access to mass storage technology to help the spe-
cies make records of all pertinent historical and cultural data.

»» Once first contact is made, the species will be granted a period of ten ga-
lactic median years as a transitory time to assimilate their culture into the
greater galactic culture. New technology and information will be provided
based on a time table established by the species, and travel off world by
native members of the species will be restricted until proper testing can
be done to establish any risk to the species or other species in the galactic
community. This is to rule out any microbes or pathogens that could lead
Opposite: Malthraxx species to an ecological or biological crisis to any species involved.

48 INTERGALACTIC LAW
INTERGALACTIC LAW 49
 The Elevation office was Juhi’s favorite place. Her daddy didn’t bring her there
often, but whenever he did she knew it was going to be a happy day. Maybe she
would get to play with a robot. Maybe she would get to see her Uncle Ryson.
Daddy didn’t like her calling him “uncle,” but that’s what he was to her. Best of
all, she would get to see her Grampy Marcus.

Grampy Marcus always had the best stories. He would take red licorice and
chase her around, pretending to be one of those scary Kleev things he used to
fight in space. Then she would get to eat the red licorice. That was the best part
of all.

There weren’t many people in the office today. Juhi always liked seeing all the
people, and all the aliens. They were always so friendly to her, making sure she
had juice if she wanted it or they would take her down to the cafeteria if Grampy
was busy and get her a bowl of cereal. But it was nearly empty today. Last time
she was here there weren’t many people either. That was OK with her. It meant
she didn’t have to worry about bumping into anyone on her hover scooter. She
zipped around the hallways on a cushion of anti-gravity, pretending she was a
space fighter pilot chasing down pirates out to steal a shipment of licorice. They
were really bad guys.

Then Juhi heard something over the rocket engine sounds she was making as she
raced around. It sounded like someone yelling, and when she stopped to listen
she knew it was her daddy’s voice. It was coming from down the hall that lead
to her Grampy’s office. The door at the end was open, and there was no way
anyone inside would hear the low hum of her scooter over her daddy’s shouting.

“You’re bleeding money every day, dad!” Juhi had never heard him talk that
loud before. Her daddy was a quiet man. He never yelled at her, even after she
dropped the big jug of milk and it spilled all over the kitchen floor. “You’ve got
ten, maybe twenty years if you sell off some of the crap you have out there. You
need to be smart about this. You need to take Krayson’s offer.”

50 INTERGALACTIC LAW
 “No, Daniel.” It was Grampy Marcus. He wasn’t shouting. The only time
she heard him shout was when he was being the ravenous ballor beast, chasing
her around as she pretend screamed and giggled. “I know you’ve never believed
in all this, but it’s important. We have an obligation to help new species, and I
won’t give up on that as long as I can keep things going.”

“You’re right,” her dad said, “I don’t believe in this. If you want to bury
your head in the sand, it’s fine by me. Maybe you can run off into space when
everything goes belly-up... just like when mom died.”

It was quiet for a minute. Juhi creeped closer to the door and peeked
around. Her daddy was in one of the big, comfy chairs, a frown on his face and
his arms crossed. Grampy was looking down at his big desk. He looked sad. It
wasn’t something Juhi had ever seen before. He looked up and caught her eye.
His frown disappeared immediately and he gave her a quick smile and a quicker
wink. With a grunt he stood up, leaning on the cane he always kept close by.

“We’ll talk about this later, Daniel,” he said quietly before walking over
towards Juhi. “Right now I need to spend some time with someone who still be-
lieves in Elevation.”

INTERGALACTIC LAW 51
 THE GALA XY AT LARGE

Terra
Terra is a class I habitable world that is the third planet from the yellow star known as
Sol. Nearly 71% of the planet is water with land masses spread out over the remainder
of the surface, and it has a single moon called Luna. While it is not the only habit-
able world in its star system, it is home to the majority of the system population with
current census figures at about eight billion inhabitants. Its ecosystem is vast and
diverse, ranging from frigid polar regions to sweltering deserts and tropical areas near
the equator. Terra’s capital is based in the city of New York, which is also home to one
of the six class A spaceports on the planet, and there are nearly a dozen more class B
spaceports, including one on Luna.

The Terrans: Humanity was on the cusp of leaving their solar system for a long time,
but lacked the final piece of the puzzle to get them there. When the Rajolans made
contact and offered them nebulium, humanity finally left behind the Sol system to
explore the galaxy. Economists have only recently realized that Terra’s initial trade
contract with the Rajolans did not have humanity’s long term interests in mind, which
is often the case with the Merchant’s Guild.

But the Rajolans didn’t realize how tenacious and expansionistic humanity is when
they invited them to the galactic table. In a few short generations they have estab-
lished a dozen colonies and expanded their business interests to all corners of civi-

52 THE GALAXY AT LARGE

 Planet Terra
lized space. The Rajolans thought they were just getting another customer, but they
may soon realize they actually got a fierce competitor. Planet: Medium. One small moon. Third
planet from the star.
<< JEar012: We humans long held the belief that we were the center of the universe,
Star System: Yellow star, 9 planets. 4
and to a degree many of us still hold that view. Humanity can be brash, arrogant,
large gas giants, one extra small.
and self-centered, but we are also capable of so much more. My grandfather believed
Tech Level: 12
that, and so do I. A recent release of old classified documents revealed that we were
at the galactic table far longer than most people knew. While publicly the Rajolans Law Level: 3 (5 for weapons)

made contact a little over a century ago, privately they had been visiting us since the Atmosphere: Earth-like
mid 20th century. After a crashed scout ship was recovered, representatives of the
Starport: 6 large starports, 11 medium
Merchant’s Guild secretly met with government officials and began a limited trade starports, all equipped with emergency
of knowledge and goods that lead to a technological explosion on our world. For bet- facilities
ter or worse, it also made the Rajolans reconsider their long-standing policy about
Population Density: High. Settlements
contact with other civilizations and brought the galaxy to the state it is in now. >> in cities and towns of various sizes.

Foreign Policy: The Global United Na-

tions maintains neutrality and pro-
Aarquen motes peace

A class I inhabitable world approximately 142 light years from Terra, Aarquen is the Special Features: Densely populated in

fourth planet in the Fayx star system. Approximately 82% of the surface area is water, nearly all habitable regions. Colonies
established on Terra’s moon and early
with the landmasses existing as several large archipelagos and a few small conti-
stage terraforming on the fourth planet
nents. Nearly all areas of the landmasses are inhabited by the native Aarqun, their
Mars.
cities and towns built either among the lush tropical forests or extending underground
into vast networks of tunnels and rapid transit tubes. There are also several floating,
domed cities in the oceans, the largest being Blilgis, which is also home to the only
class A spaceport on planet. There are two class B spaceports in the cities of Tyssis
and Yyssal, but most of Aarquen’s shipbuilding and space docks are in orbit of the
planet’s moon Iisilil.

The Aarqun
One of the most advanced species in the galaxy, the Aarqun turned to intellectual
and philosophical pursuits long ago when all war was ended on their planet. They
developed advanced transportation and medical industries, eradicating disease and
genetic afflictions centuries ago. In time they also developed their own version of the

THE GALAXY AT LARGE 53

54 THE GALAXY AT LARGE
 Planet Aarquen
rift drive, similar to but not exactly like the one created by the Rajolans. They kept
their explorations close to home, and only joined the galactic community within the Planet: Medium. One small moon, The
fourth planet from the star.
last two centuries.
Star System: Yellow star (Fayx), 8 plan-
Possessing an innate affinity for empathic and telepathic ability, Aarqun communi-
ets, two large gas giants
cate with each other via complex psychic transmissions and they had to relearn how
Tech Level: 14
to speak audibly to interact with others. They use their natural telepathy so well with
each other that they work in unison similar to a colony of bees or a flock or birds, but Law Level: 3 (9 for weapons)

each Aarqun is an individual and has their own goals and interests. Most of them are Atmosphere: Earth-like
also strict pacifists, something that comes from their deep empathic gifts, and they try
Starport: One larger starport and two
to seek more peaceful solutions to conflict when they arise. medium starports, all with emergency
facilities
<< JEar012: Not everybody knows the true story of how the Aarqun got their telepathic
abilities. It’s not something they openly talk about, but it’s also not a closely guarded Population Density: High. Many com-
secret. They weren’t always pacifists. A long time ago they were just as savage and munities are integrated into wilderness
areas and floating cities.
violent as the rest of us, but a radical scientist came up with an extreme solution to
stop their frequent and petty wars. He disguised an advanced mutagentic compound Foreign Policy: The Collective is com-
as a routine vaccine that was scheduled to be given to the whole populace. Instead prised of a small council of scholars,
philosophers, and scientists that pro-
of a bolstered immune system, about 80% of the population developed an empathic
mote peace and unity.
hive mind with each other. It’s pretty hard to shoot someone when you know exactly
how they feel about it. Eventually their forced evolution became part of their biology, Special Features: The planet has a net-
work of crystal based “psychic nodes”
and their natural telepathy is why many of them seem distant and cold when they
that allow the amplification of inherent
interact with other species. We just aren’t on their wavelength. >>
Aarqun telepathy to a near global scale
and is used for an annual hive mind
bonding rite.
Aroosia
Aroosia is a class I habitable planet in the Roal system, the third planet out from the
star known as Roalu. Approximately 68% of the surface is covered in water, with large
ice caps at the poles that stretch down in much of the land masses closest to the polar
regions. The remaining habitable surface areas are vast plains and thick forests, much
of which is arable farmlands that support the planet’s primary industries. There is one
class B spaceport in the capital city of Beebus and two more class C spaceports in the
cities of Taasa and Opeen. Some smaller communities have simple class E landing
sites for transport ships that haul crops off-world. Opposite: Aarqun species

THE GALAXY AT LARGE 55

Planet Aroosia Aroosians
Planet: Large. Two small moons. The
Prior to their discovery by a Rajolan scout ship, the Aroosians were an agricultural
third planet from the star.
civilization that was on the brink of an ecological disaster. Their planet was nearing
Star System: Yellow star (Roalu), 10
the start of a new ice age, and the drastic shift in climate was making it difficult to
planets, 3 large gas giants.
grow the crops they relied on. Although hardy from their harsh lives and higher grav-
Tech Level: 12 ity, the Aroosians existed only to survive and their lives revolved entirely around what
Law Level: 3 (6 for weapons) they needed to make it to the next day. The Rajolans were considered a godsend, and

Atmosphere: Earth-like
their new space allies were able to reverse the ecological crisis using terraforming
technology.
Starport: One medium starport, two
small starports, eight landing sites. With their climate restored, the Aroosians no longer needed to spend all their time in
Only the medium starport has emer-
survival mode and became enamored with all the new technology the Rajolans and
gency facilities
other businesses offered them. Massive cities sprung up overnight and the landscape
Population Density: Very high in urban of Aroosia changed from rural to urban in a few short generations. Now many of the
areas, low to medium in rural areas.
Aroosians reside in their new mega-cities, enjoying a different lifestyle than their an-
Cities are found along coastal areas
cestors. The planet remains an agricultural center for the galaxy, with automated farm-
and other habitable regions center
around agricultural sites.
ing equipment doing the work while the Aroosians reap the rewards.

Foreign Policy: The Communion of El- << JEar012: The Aroosians serve as a perfect example of how a culture can be ruined by
ders is made up of elected politicians first contact. Once a simple agrarian society, they were dazzled by the technologi-
that dictate policies and stress trade
cal baubles presented to them by the Rajolans. The Aroosians entered into the trade
and development.
contract with their new neighbors without considering the consequences, desperate
Special Features: Aroosia has a higher to get help with their environmental crisis. A fever for new and better tech gripped
than standard gravity than other worlds
the simple farmers, and they quickly consumed any new device or convenience that
that can be uncomfortable for other
was offered to them. In just a few short decades their old culture was gone, replaced
species. The equatorial region is home
to many bio-luminescent plant life that by one full of apathetic, self-indulgent technophiles obsessed with the latest personal

is prized by traders and merchants. A.I.s, flashy liftcars, or flash-in-the-pan dataweb celebrities. They remain a fertile
market for any corporation looking to unload whatever cheap, mass produced item
they are looking to sell. It’s a sad object lesson about why new species need to be
eased into the current technological landscape instead of dropped in wholesale. >>

56 THE GALAXY AT LARGE

 Planet Greshol
Planet: Medium. 1 small moon. Second
planet from the star

Star System: Yellow star (Yeraz), 7 plan-

ets, 2 large gas giants.

Tech Level: 10 in larger cities, 4 to 6 in

rural areas

Law Level: 4 (5 for weapons)

Atmosphere: Earth-like

Starport: One small starport and two

landing sites. Starport has limited
Aroosian
emergency facilities.

Gresol Population Density: Medium around

large settlements and established ag-
Approximately 270 light years from Terra, Gresol is a class I habitable planet that is the ricultural areas, low in other regions.
second planet from the main sequence star known as Yeraz, named after an ancient Foreign Policy: The Tribunal of Hragr
Gres deity. About 73% of the planet surface is water in the form of vast oceans and po- meets monthly to determine policy and
lar ice caps, with the majority of the landmasses found near the equatorial region. The emphasizes maintaining tradition but
habitable regions are primarily made up of dense rainforests and grassy savannas, also expansion of the Gresol people.

with some arid desert regions on the western hemisphere of the planet. The capital Special Features: Most of Gres remains
city of Hragr has a class C spaceport outside of the city limits, and two additional class untamed and is home to some danger-
E landing sites have been established outside the settlements of Wargal and Mrross. ous natural predators. Some isolated
tribes of Gresol are hostile and savage
The Gres to their own people and especially to
off-worlders.
The last sentient species to be allowed entry into the galactic community, prior to
discovery the Gres were a pre-industrial society but they have adapted quickly to
the technology given to them as part of the Advancement Accords negotiated by our
founder, Marcus Earther. Living mainly in the jungle and rainforest regions, Gres have
adapted well to the dense foliage and are highly skilled at brachiating through the
arboreal parts of their world.

THE GALAXY AT LARGE 57

 The Gres are known as a gregarious, friendly species and they have
deep rooted traditions of ancestor and hero worship that permeate
most aspects of their culture. Thanks to the intervention of our founder,
Gresol has remained much like it did before first contact, and the intro-
duction of new technology has been deliberately gradual to allow the
people time to adjust. Gres are still relatively rare in the galaxy at large,
but more and more are venturing off of Gresol to learn about their new
galactic neighbors.

<< JEar012: Because of my grandfather I have a special bond with the

Gres. Thanks to his interventions they managed to retain much of
what made them who they were, but they also have quickly caught on
to the way the galaxy works. They are friendly, cordial, loyal, and they
have a cooking spice that has a pleasantly intoxicating effect on hu-
man physiology. Not that I indulge in that often. They also have great
reverence for the Gres who came before them and idolize the legendary
heroes of their history. Many younger Gres are fascinated with human
fiction of heroes and superheroes, and a recent trend is for those who
live offworld to adopt the persona of some ancient science fiction do-
gooder or a cloaked guardian of the night. It’s just one more quirk that
makes them one of my favorite species to spend time with. >>
Gres species

Mercant Prime
Planet Mercant Prime Mercant Prime is a class II planet located approximately 137 light years from Terra, the
Planet: Large. 2 small moons and 1 fourth planet in the Sxallis star system. It was previously a class I habitable world, but
very small moon. Fourth planet from years of industrialization, mining, and pollution have rendered the biosphere highly
the star. toxic to carbon based life. What little liquid water remains on the surface is acidic and
Star System: Yellow star (Sxallis), 10 incapable of sustaining life, and the polar regions were stripped of any potable water
planets, 4 large gas giants long ago. While most of the native Rajolans live on offworld colonies or spacecraft, a
Tech Level: 15 population of 4 billion still remains on Mercant Prime in large domed settlements or
Law Level: 3 (6 for weapons) underground communities. Mercant Prime’s primary function for the Rajolans is data
Atmosphere: Thin and heavily polluted storage for their business transactions and banking institutions.

58 THE GALAXY AT LARGE

 The Rajolans Starport: Ten large starports at the
remaining domed settlements, all
The oldest starfaring species in the galaxy, the Rajolans mastered space travel when
with emergency facilities
other species were still mastering iron working. Business and trade are their religion,
Population Density: Very high in the
and their entire culture is based on the art of making deals. They have expanded to
domed cities, very low or none every-
many known parts of the galaxy and made contact with sentient species they discov- where else
ered to enter into trade agreements with them. Foreign Policy: The Merchant’s Guild
The Rajolans established many rules about first contact and intergalactic laws that acts as the ruling body of the Rajo-
lans, and they emphasize policies of
other space-faring species abide by, but they also have skewed views on the preser-
trade and expansion.
vation of other worlds. They stripped their own home world of all its resources and
Special Features: The atmosphere is
believe all other species should be as unsentimental as they are. While they are gen-
polluted to the point of being toxic,
erally fair in their transactions, their advanced technology and culture nearly always
as are any remaining standing bodies
gives them a distinct advantage in business deals that often have long-term negative of liquid water. Without an environ-
effects on the species they are trading with. ment suit, exposure leads to fatigue
and eventually death. The moons of
<< JEar012: There are many accounts in history of conquest by means of overwhelming
the planet are heavily industrialized
military force, but a culture can just as easily be subjugated by rampant consumer- with automated production and ship-
ism. As much as the K’Taar want to rule the galaxy, the Rajolans beat them to the building facilities.
punch a long time ago. They were stripping planets of their resources and flooding
worlds with their goods when humanity was crawling out of the Dark Ages. There
is no species more established or powerful, and other worlds find out too late that
no matter how fair the deal seems, the Rajolans always come out on top. That’s not
to say the Rajolans are untrustworthy. To them there is no worse crime than an un-
scrupulous business arrangement. But be careful when you are dealing with them,
especially when it comes to claims on new planets. Every new acquisition strength-
ens them as a people, and they can be ruthless when they are on the losing end of a
transaction.

It’s also good to keep in mind that the products most of us see from them are flashy,
trendy, and functional, but are also mass produced and have built in obsolescence
so you always need to buy more. The products they sell each other are much better
crafted and durable. Something to know for when you’re buying off one of them. >>

THE GALAXY AT LARGE 59

Planet Thraxx
Thraxx
Planet: Medium. 1 small moon, de-
stroyed. Third planet from the star. Thraxx is a class III uninhabited world, the third planet in the Irass system of the yel-
Star System: Yellow star (Ozxa), 7 plan- low star known as Ozxa. Approximately 64% of the surface is liquid water, but like the
ets, 2 large gas giants landmasses it is highly irradiated as a result of extensive orbital strikes to the planet.

Tech Level: 0 (previously 5) There is no notable vegetation or life forms outside of some hardy microbes and a
few species of insects. There are many ruins of former cities and settlements, but the
Law Level: 9 (restricted access due to
radiation levels make them uninhabitable to anyone without a fully sealed environ-
toxic atmosphere)
mental suit. Due to the current conditions, the APCR has decreed that Thraxx is off
Atmosphere: Thin, toxic, and highly ra-
limits and has stationed orbital monitoring satellites and drones to ward off visitors.
dioactive.

Starport: None

Population Density: None

Foreign Policy: None

Special Features: Thraxx is an aban-

doned world, rendered toxic and highly
radioactive by the bombardment of the
K’Taar invaders. Microbial and insect
life exists in some isolated areas, and
remaining settlements are ruins rav-
aged by the attacks, time, and radiation.

The Malthrax x
Once a noble race of philosophers and warriors, the Malthraxx had the misfortune
of being discovered by the K’Taar. There was no attempt at a peaceful first contact,
and after the Malthraxx resisted the brutal aliens decimated their home planet and
enslaved the survivors. About one hundred thousand managed to escape the initial
invasion, and since that time a few thousand more have been freed from their captors
and live among other species in the galactic community.

The remaining Malthraxx are a brutalized and broken people, subjected to the worst
the galaxy could offer and nearly driven to extinction. Many are fearful of others, slow
to trust, and quick to look for an escape route if they feel there is any threat. They are

60 THE GALAXY AT LARGE

 also hunted by their former masters, and the K’Taar offer a substantial bounty for any
live Malthraxx that is caught. This is especially true for former slaves who have distinc-
tive glowing brands full of tracking nanites injected into their skin to mark their status
in the K’Taar hierarchy.

<< JEar012: While the Aroosians are an object lesson in conquest by consumerism, the
Malthraxx are a tragic example of conquest the old fashioned way. They were a
proud people with a rich history, and if the Rajolans or Aarqun had discovered them
they would have been a great asset to the galaxy. But the K’Taar found them first. A
war fleet arrived in the atmosphere of Thraxx and the magus in command demanded
surrender, but the Malthraxx elders were too proud to submit. The K’Taar bombarded
them for a week with plasma cannons and fusion missiles. The Malthraxx elders
still would not relent because they knew what would happen if their unwanted
guests were their new masters. Next the K’Taar send legions of Kleevs to decimate
their communities. By that time the elders were dead, and a resistance of young
Malthraxx did whatever they could to fight back. The K’Taar enslaved as many
Malthraxx as they could round up, took them aboard their ships, and irradiated the
planet to kill off any survivors. It’s important to remember this when you encounter
a Malthraxx, and why it is important to protect the few that are left. >>

K’Tarra
Located approximately 291 light years from Terra, K’Tarra is a type I planet and is the
third planet from the star Apallas, named after an ancient sun god of the K’Taar peo-
ple. It consists of approximately 63% surface water and the landmasses range from
bleak tundra to sweltering deserts, with little more than scrub grasses and the occa-
sional tree in the temperate zones. While not harsh, it is not idyllic by most standards
and might account for the miserable attitudes of its native species. There are numer-
ous cities across the surface, cold and cramped, with the capital of B’oor the largest
and most crowded. There are three class A spaceports on the planet, all controlled by
the military, and two more class B spaceports on the dual moons that orbit the world
that serve as shipyards for the K’Taar war machine. A Kleev, the killer robots used by the K’Taar.

THE GALAXY AT LARGE 61

Planet K’Tarra The K’Taar
Planet: Medium. 2 small moons. Third Although physically weak and unimposing, the K’Taar are one of the most danger-
planet from the star.
ous threats in the known galaxy. For most of their history they fought unending wars
Star System: Yellow star (Apallas), 8 across K’Tarra in a constant struggle to prove their dominance over each other. They
planets, 3 large gas giants, asteroid perfected many terrible weapons and robotic proxies to serve as a renewable source
belt between third and fourth planet
of shock troops, allowing their conflicts to continue unabated. Now that they can
Tech Level: 14 travel the galaxy, their warlike urges have turned from each other to everyone else,
Law Level: 7 making the K’Taar a danger to any who cross their path.

Atmosphere: Earth like K’Taar culture is composed of three castes: the lowly workers, the battle-hardened

Starport: Three large starports and two warriors, and the ruling magus. Workers keep the gears of the war machines turning,
medium starports on the moons, all and develop new and deadlier weapons to unleash on others. Warriors are fitted with
have emergency facilities. cybernetic modifications that allow them to control and direct legions of war robots
Population Density: Very high in urban known as Kleevs against their enemies. The mysterious magus are said to be power-
areas, low to medium in smaller com- ful psychics, capable of directing K’Taar and robots with a mere thought. If you see a
munities and rural areas K’Taar ship in your travels, do everything you can to escape because you can expect a
Foreign Policy: The Magus direct all dozen more warships to be close by.
aspects of K’Taar culture and policy,
<< JEar012: The K’Taar have been a thorn in the side of the galaxy since they first
which is highly aggressive and places
acquired rift technology from a crashed Rajolan scout ship. It allowed them to stop
emphasis on the military and expansion
of their influence. fighting each other and go out and find brand new lifeforms to hate and kill. For a
long time it was thought the K’Taar were actually sentient robots that had destroyed
Special Features: The asteroid belt
their creators because no one had ever seen a living member of the species, but my
around K’Tarra serves as a natural
defense of the planet and also houses grandfather had many encounters with them and eventually brought back proof of
several military bases that help protect their existence.
the K’Taar homeworld.
Needless to say the K’Taar are not fond of my family, and I’ve had a few run-ins
with them myself. They are bred for battle, and each year they have something called
the Grand Game to determine who will be elevated up to the warrior caste from
the workers. It is a massive contest held in a virtual environment, but real pain is
inflicted on the losers. Despite that fact, millions of workers sign up for the chance
to participate each year out of hope for a “better life,” if your idea of a better life
is being fitted with invasive cybernetics that slave link you to squads of soulless
Opposite: K’Taar species combat robots. >>

62 THE GALAXY AT LARGE

THE GALAXY AT LARGE 63
 Galactic Colonies

Avalon Avalon
Location (Colony of Avalon) A Terran colony on the class III planet known as Dozmary IV, Avalon consists of three
large domes connected by a series of transit tubes and underground corridors. Origi-
INF 11 nally established as a mining colony, it exports mineral resources as well as chemicals
SIZ 8 extracted from the highly toxic mists that make up the atmosphere. Named after the

RES 15 mythic island from the legends of King Arthur, the corporations behind the colony de-
cided to capitalize on the association twenty years ago and built an elaborate theme
Ideas: Pleasure, Tradition park based on the Knights of the Round Table inside one of the domes. This has turned
the inhospitable mining colony into a popular tourist attraction for families and thrill
Attributes: Black Ops 50%, Connected
45%, Dedicated Followers 45%, Info Re- seekers across the galaxy.
trieval 50%, Legal 45%, Secrecy 55%,
<< JEar012: Avalon is a fun place to get away to when the pressures of the galaxy
Security 50%, Welfare 55%
threaten to weigh you down. In addition to the theme parks, it hosts some amazing
restaurants, a few bars (some of which I’m still allowed to go back to), and the mists
swirling outside the domes look positively amazing as the sun sets. It is also home
to the Table of Avalon, a secretive group of decent folk who are good to have in your
corner in a tight spot. >>

Barterdome Bar terdome

Location (Colony of Barterdome) Constructed within and on the surface of a massive asteroid within the Hyaral system,
Barterdome has served as a hub for trade for centuries since the Rajolans first con-
INF 16
structed it. Originally it served as a waypoint and fueling station for their exploration
SIZ 10 and trading ships, but when other species joined the galactic community they opened
RES 19 the station up to everyone. Since that time, corporations and independent businesses
have set up shop on Barterdome so they can reach customers that would not normally
Ideas: Newness, Wealth have access to their goods and services. The station also houses some of the most

Attributes: Connected 75%, Cultural

advanced ship-building and repair yards in the galaxy, servicing any type of spacecraft
Heritage 45%, Info Retrieval 65%, Legal currently plying the space lanes.
75%, Media 70%, Memes 60%, Politics
<< JEar012: If there is something you need, or something you didn’t realize you needed,
65%, Sanctions 80%
odds are you can find it on Barterdome. The scale of the place is dumbfounding, and
most people I know have a full blown panic attack the first time they see the immen-

64 THE GALAXY AT LARGE

sity of it. For all their faults, the Rajolans run a tight ship and it’s a great waypoint Barterdome
if you need supplies or have to make some repairs to your ship. Just keep in mind
that for the Rajolans, everything is a commodity. You must submit to a credit report
before you enter the station and there are fees and permits for just about anything
you need to do on station, so bring plenty of trade units with you. >>

THE GALAXY AT LARGE 65

Fedarus Fedarus
Location (Colony of Fedarus) Although the Aarqun rarely establish colonies off-world, within the last fifty years they
built a small settlement on the planet known as Nibiru, a short 15 light years from
INF 9 Aarquen. Serving as a site for spiritual retreat, the Aarqun often go there to escape
SIZ 8 what they refer to as “psychic static,” which is a condition that causes anxiety and
RES 11 tension for many of them. The planet is primarily comprised of vast oceans with a few
small island chains, much like their home world, and on several of these the Aarqun

Ideas: Enlightenment, Peace have built small settlements and monasteries for their relaxation and contemplation.
In the last several years they have opened up some of these settlements to outsiders
Attributes: Ahimsa 60%, Cultural Heri-
seeking enlightenment or a peaceful place to meditate and escape the hectic nature
tage 70%, Dedicated Followers 50%,
Strong Leadership 55%, Welfare 55% of modern life.

<< JEar012: When I was able to get past his biting sarcasm and miserable personality,
Thorn explained that “psychic static” is a side effect of billions of telepaths sending
out constant signals into the air as part of their normal communication. He also let it
slip that he prefers living on Terra because of it, then quickly recovered with several
snide comments about our “inferior minds” not being able to send out signals strong
enough to bother him. >>

Neo Neo
Location (Colony of Neo) CypherCorp is one of the largest corporations on Terra, and their interests lie far be-
yond their home world. A few decades ago one of their survey vessels discovered a
INF 13 habitable world orbiting the star known as Nulla, and CypherCorp was quick to lay
SIZ 9 claim to the uninhabited world. They quickly built up operations there, and a massive

RES 15 city known as Neo was established to house their employees and colonists looking
for a new start. Billed as being on the ‘cusp of the new,’ Neo became a haven for
technophiles and technology companies who enjoyed the looser restrictions on re-
Ideas: Power, Wealth
search. The colony also became home to a religious movement known as the Order
Attributes: Black Ops 45%, Connected
of Science, who venerate a complex artificial intelligence called the Prophet to guide
50%, Fear 55%, Info Retrieval 55%,
Legal 60%, Media 55%, Politics 45%,
their enterprises.
Sanctions 50%, Secrecy 65%, Security << JEar012: I won’t get started on the dirtbags that make up CypherCorp, but watch
65%, Troops 55%
your backs in anything they are involved with, including Neo. It’s bad enough that
some of the worst people and companies in the galaxy are there, enjoying loose laws

66 THE GALAXY AT LARGE

 and looser morals, but there are some real dangerous characters lurking under all
the neon glare. The Order of Science are a bunch of weirdos, and I’ve heard lots of
rumors of their robed cultists snatching people off the streets for weird experiments.
Also be especially wary of the Cyclops Clan, a group of high tech cyborg ninjas who
haunt the underworld. They work as assassins and thieves for the highest bidder, so
try not to get on their bad side. >>

The Deep Unknown

Every culture has its tales of brave explorers venturing out into the strange parts of the
world seeking what lies beyond the next horizon. With the advent of space travel the
horizons have gotten closer than ever before, with countless star systems waiting out
in the void for someone to discover them. To many explorers the name for this infinite
horizon is the ‘deep unknown,” and our goal here at Elevation is to make it as known
as possible. Our hope is to fill in the blank spots on star charts and see if there are
other cultures out there waiting to be found. We also know exploration is a dangerous
enterprise, and our field agents go out with the understanding that beyond the known
parts of the galaxy there is no help available and no back-up if they get in trouble. If
you are one of the brave souls who wishes to venture out into the deep unknown, we
will do our best to support you and we salute your willingness to seek out what has
yet to be discovered.

<< JEar012: In the years that have passed since this training manual was written, only
a few dozen new star systems have been cataloged and registered. In that same time
a few hundred exploration ships have gone missing in the deep unknown. Those are
statistics that bother me, not only for the lives lost but because of the effect it’s had
on exploration of space. My grandfather set off in his ship seeking out new places, al-
ways knowing that he may never come back but also knowing how important what
he was doing was to the future. I believe in his cause, and in his dream to expand
the galaxy we know and find those peoples out there waiting to be found. If you are
still here I hope you feel the same, and are willing to take those risks alongside me.

Welcome to Elevation. Now let’s get out there and find something new. >>

THE GALAXY AT LARGE 67

 E xploring the Deep Unknown
The adventures contained within this book detail a chain of events leading to the
discovery of a new planet with a sentient lifeform ready to join the galaxy, and by
completing it the players will help put Elevation back on the path back to its glory
days. But that is only one planet in a galaxy that has the potential for so much more.
And this campaign setting is designed to encourage an endless adventure in search of
more planets and more life in all its strange and wondrous forms. It also plants some
seeds for other directions for your campaign to go, including conflicts with the more
nefarious organizations that vie for control of the galaxy’s resources. To that end, here
are two suggestions to expand on what is presented here to make Elevation your own
setting.

Explorers of the Galaxy: The World Building and Alien Creation chapters of the core
M-Space rulebook give you endless possibilities to create new planets and creatures
for your players to encounter with just a few rolls of the dice. You could run an entire
campaign based on ADAC and Farsight Station discovering unknown systems and the
characters launching out into the deep unknown to explore what is found. And there
is always the potential for conflict with an hostile and unknown alien, or a rival faction
such as CypherCorp, or another group of explorers.

System Building: An easy way to conduct an exploration based campaign is to use

the World Building chapter of the M-Space rulebook (pages 146-149) to create a ran-
domized star system and the planets within. A few rolls on the tables provided will
allow you to create an entire system in a matter of minutes. And as mentioned earlier
in this book and on page 146 of the core rulebook, even lifeless systems have great
value or can be home to some unexpected find or peril. For example, to prepare for
an upcoming session Dave decides to have the characters follow-up on some new
system data obtained from Farsight Station. With a few rolls he creates an unexplored
star system with a blue dwarf star, 7 planets of various sizes that are all uninhabited,
and rolling on the Special World Features chart he gets a 72, indicating a special
resource. He decides the second planet contains many of the compounds used in
crafting Nebulium, making it a valuable resource to all space travelers. Dave quickly
formulates a scenario where the characters reach the system just as a Rajolan auto-

68 THE GALAXY AT LARGE

mated survey team arrives, and the characters need to decide if they want to destroy
the survey drones or figure out a way to negotiate with the Rajolans for partial rights
on the claim.

If life is found, things get a bit more complicated so it is a good idea to prepare ahead
of time. The Alien Creation rules found on pages 122-141 of the core rulebook allow to
to craft unique and interesting creatures to populate inhabited systems, but require
some preparation to get the most out of them. It is recommended that you limit the
number of lifeforms you create so the characters can focus on the most interesting
ones, unless you plan to keep them exploring planets for an extended period of time.
You can also take the pre-made aliens from the Lifeforms chapter of the rulebook
and use them as presented or modify them to create something new. If the species
is sentient, you need to take the extra step to create a culture to broaden the society
and to determine if it is a species that could be approached for first contact. Even non-
sentient species offer a plethora of opportunities for adventures. For example, Tony
uses the creation rules to make a non-sentient alien creature that is a multi-legged
insectoid omnivore that inhabits the deserts of the world he created. He rolls the
Advantage of regeneration, and using that as a hook he creates an adventure where
the characters discover the creatures while surveying the world and determine their
natural healing abilities could prove very valuable to medical research. The characters
need to decide if they want to exploit the creatures for profit, or protect them from
greedy corporate explorers who arrive not long after the characters do.

Heroes of the Galaxy: Elevation is a benevolent organization at its core, seeking

to better the galaxy and treat others fairly. But not everyone shares that philoso-
phy. Greedy corporations, opportunistic Rajolan merchants, and K’Taar war fleets with
dreams of conquest roam the deep unknown looking to expand their resources and
empires. Then there is the ever-present scourge of pirates, the dangers of advanced
science gone wrong, and whatever dark secrets lurk at the heart of the lost colony
the Rajolans are trying to hide. Characters could easily adapt the ideals of Elevation’s
founder and rocket off to do battle with the sinister forces of the galaxy, bringing jus-
tice and peace to those who would be taken advantage of.

THE GALAXY AT LARGE 69

 ALIENS
STR 2d6+2 (8) Aarqun
CON 3d6 (10-11)
Strangeness: 60
SIZ 2d6+4 (10)
Classification: Omnivore
DEX 3d6 (10-11)
Habitat: Urbanized forest and coastal regions
INT 2d6+6 (12)
Behaviour: Aarqun try to achieve harmony with each other and their world
POW 2d6+8 (14)

CHA 3d6 (10-11) Social: Aarqun living in tight-knit communities that vary from a few hundred to millions

Communication: Psionic (telepathic with any other Aarqun within POW metres), can
Move 6m
use sound (own language and other learned languages)
Action Pt 2
Universals: Aquatic (may hold breath for CON minutes under water)
HP 11
Weapons – Advantages: Armor (2 point shell), Fine Manipulation, Psionics
Armor 2
Disadvantages: High Empathy, Pacifists (Aarqun have the passion ‘Do No Lasting
PP 14
Harm to Other Sentient Beings’ at a base rating of 85%)
Dmg Mod –
Skills Varies Aarqun Psionics
As a species that has been communicating exclusively via telepathic rapport for cen-
turies, the Aarqun have mastered the powers of their mind like no other culture. While
they are able to learn any psionic sphere, they have a special affinity for the Mind
sphere and their abilities with it are more potent than other beings. An Aarqun that
learns powers from the Mind sphere halves all power point costs, rounded down, to
a minimum of 1 power point. Telepathy is accessible to them in the first arc and only
costs 1 power point per type of message sent if used on a willing being, or 3 power
points for one who is unaware or unwilling. Aarqun’s pacifism extends to their psionic
pursuits, and they never direct someone to do direct harm to another or themselves
while using powers like Affect Mind or Control Mind.

70 ALIENS
Aroosian STR 2d6+6 (12)

Strangeness: 10 CON 2d6+6 (12)

SIZ 2d6+4 (10)

Classification: Herbivore
DEX 3d6 (10-11)
Habitat: Urban areas and arable plains
INT 2d6+6 (12)
Behaviour: Traditional Aroosians emphasize productivity while younger generations
POW 2d6+2 (8)
stress the benefits of technology
CHA 3d6 (10-11)
Social: Rural Aroosians live in small, tight-knit communities, while urban members of
the species form looser bonds and prefer interacting through technology instead of Move 5m
face-to-face contact Action Pt 2

Communication: Sound HP 11

(own language and other Weapons –

learned languages) Armor –

PP 8
Universals: Gravity Adapt-
Dmg Mod –
ed (suffer no penalty to ac-
Skills Varies
tions in gravity between 1
G to 1.3 G)

Advantages: None

Disadvantages: None

ALIENS 71
 STR 3d6 (10-11) Gres
CON 3d6 (10-11)
Strangeness: 30
SIZ 2d6+6 (12)
Classification: Omnivore
DEX 3d6 (10-11)
Habitat: Arboreal regions and arable savannas
INT 2d6+4 (10)
POW 2d6+4 (10) Behaviour: Gresol value great deeds and ancestor worship but also have a deep cu-

CHA 3d6 (10-11) riosity of the world around them

Social: Most Gresol live in small communities within the vast forests, but some larger
Move 8m
settlements exist along rivers and near seas
Action Pt 2
Communication: Sound (own language and other learned languages), Scent
HP 12
Weapons – Universals: None
Armor –
Advantages: Adept Climber (+10% to Athletics to climb), Brachiation Expertise (may
PP 10
move normally using arms to swing on tree limbs, any Athletics or Acrobatics checks
Dmg Mod –
involving swinging are one grade easier), Claws (1d4 damage, Size S), Heightened
Skills Varies
Smell (+10% to Perception checks involving smell)

Disadvantages: Affected by Pollution (Endurance checks to resist toxic environments

are one grade more difficult)

STR 2d6+2 (8)

Rajolan
CON 2d6+2 (8)
Strangeness: 20
SIZ 2d6+4 (10)
Classification: Omnivore
DEX 3d6 (10-11)
Habitat: Urban areas, spacecraft, and colonies
INT 2d6+8 (14)
POW 3d6 (10-11) Behaviour: Rajolans put business over all other things, treating all interactions as

CHA 3d6 (10-11) transactions of some value, even if it is not material. They have a complex hierarchy
within their culture based on the worth and business skills of the individual.

Social: Rajolans live in densely packed urban areas and in large spacecraft or space
stations. They freely intermingle with other species and allow them to live on their
settlements.

72 ALIENS
Communication: Sound (own language and other learned languages) Move 8m
Action Pt 2
Universals: None
HP 9
Advantages: Business Acumen (Commerce is a standard skill), Enhanced Vision
Weapons –
(+10% to vision based Perception checks), High Intelligence
Armor –
Disadvantages: Low Empathy PP 11
Dmg Mod -1d2
Skills Varies

Malthraxx STR 3d6 (10-11)

CON 3d6 (10-11)
Strangeness: 10
SIZ 2d6+6 (12)
Classification: Omnivore
DEX 3d6 (10-11)
Habitat: Various INT 2d6+4 (10)

Behaviour: Malthraxx are isolative, slow to trust, and guarded with those who are not POW 2d6+4 (10)
of their species. If trust is gained, Malthraxx are deeply loyal but often skittish and CHA 3d6 (10-11)
nervous.
Move 8m
Social: Free Malthraxx keep to small, closely bonded groups that live among other
Action Pt 2
species, or live in hiding on remote or uninhabited worlds.
HP 12
Communication: Sound (own language and other learned languages) Weapons –

Universals: Hunted (by the K’Taar if free) Armor –

PP 10
Advantages: Adept Hiders (+10% to Stealth)
Dmg Mod –
Disadvantages: Obedient (-10% to base Willpower), Poor Sense of Smell (-10% to Skills Varies
Perception checks based on smell)

ALIENS 73
 STR 3d6 (10-11) The K’Taar Species
CON 3d6 (10-11)
Strangeness: 70
SIZ 2d6+6 (12)
Classification: Carnivore
DEX 3d6 (10-11)
INT 2d6+4 (10) Habitat: Urban and underground caverns

POW 2d6+4 (10) Behaviour: K’Taar believe that power and might are the keys to advancement, and
CHA 3d6 (10-11) every K’Taar has a deep-rooted self interest and desire to reach a higher standing
within their culture. They also believe they are superior to other species and should
Move 5m rule the known galaxy.
Action Pt 2
Social: The K’Taar live in tightly packed cities and settlements. They have a strict
HP 12
caste system where all members must know their station and bow down to any K’Taar
Weapons –
of higher standing. They have a deep hatred of other species, but also have strong
Armor –
resentments for each other.
PP 10
Dmg Mod – Communication: Sound (own language, requires a translator to speak other learned

Skills Varies languages)

Universals: None

Advantages: Claws (1d4 damage, Size S), Extra Sense (Seismic Movement), Fine Ma-
nipulation, Natural Camouflage (Stealth checks against rocky or stone environments
are one difficulty grade easier), Toxin Resistance (Endurance checks to resist poisons
or toxins are one difficulty grade easier)

Disadvantages: Hierarchy, Internal Conflicts, Low Empathy, No Sense of Taste

The Enemy of My Enemy

The K’Taar are an unpleasant species of petty, vindictive conquerors and slavers who
believe all other species are beneath them and deserve to be ground under the heel
of their robot shock troops, so there’s a good chance one of your players will want
to play one. As presented here, they are meant to serve the role of antagonists, but
ultimately it is your campaign so if you allow it (after a suitable bribe from the player)
the statistics to play one are presented here.

74 ALIENS
ALIENS 75
 “I know this isn’t how I should say good bye, but if I did it face to face I might
not leave.”

Marcus took in a deep breath. He leaned forward and adjusted the camera one
more time before sitting back in the Starseeker’s pilot chair. He looked down at
the control panel, trying to work out the words rattling around in his head.

“Things aren’t going like I hoped. Maybe I was never cut out for this. A man
like me shouldn’t have been in charge of something so big. I just wanted to help
people. Make a difference. I’m not a business man. I’m not a leader.”

“I beg...beg... beg... to differ, sir.” XO was beside him, just like he had been for
over four decades. The poor robot had been repaired and upgraded as much as
his system could take, and while he still functioned, he’d acquired a few glitches
over the past few years. “My records indic... indic... indicate you have proven
your leadership qualities many times over.”

Marcus reached over and gave the robot a gentle pat on the side, a slight smile
on his weary face. He took another breath and continued.

“I wanted to leave you a better legacy. I wanted Elevation to be something you

would be proud to inherit. But I’m afraid all I left for you was a mess. I under-
stand if you want to sell it off or close it down. Maybe its outlived its usefulness.
The galaxy is not the same one from when I was your age. No body wants to
find what’s out past the next star. I still do, at least while I still have some life
left in me.”

Weathered hands worked the ship’s controls with an ease born from repetition.
XO extended a long actuator, assisting as best as he could. From all around the
dull hum of engines powering up filled the cabin.

“My lawyers have all the necessary paperwork. When you turn eighteen, Eleva-
tion is officially yours to do whatever you want with. Maybe I will be able to
find a little bit of the luck I had when I was young. Maybe I will be able to find
the next Gresol. Maybe not. But I’m going to try for your sake. And for whoever

76 ALIENS
is out there waiting for us to find them. I love you, Jules. Please forgive me for
leaving like this. Right now I need to pick a star and see what is waiting for me
out there.”

With a quick smile and a quicker wink the recording shut off. Juhi stared at the
empty space above her desk where the holographic display showed the last mes-
sage from her grandfather. At the door Sorgus stood against the frame, his metal
arms crossed over his broad chest.

“How many times have you watched that damn thing?” he asked.

“I lost count,” she said, standing up and tilting her head to crack her neck.
“What’s the latest report?”

The big cyborg straightened up as she walked past, falling in step beside her.
“Ryson said it will be another two days before Starseeker 3 is up and running
again. We had another two people hand in their resignations, but we have a few
promising candidates with no where better to go. And Dr. Galdus said the next
batch of survey data should be in within the week.”

She stopped at a window, looking out on the campus that made up Elevation’s
offices. She stared at each empty building, the few lift cars in the parking lot, the
landscaping she couldn’t afford to keep up. She hadn’t realized how long she’s
been staring until Sorgus cleared his throat.

“So what’s our next plan?”

She turned and looked up at him, jaw set. “We pick a star and see what’s wait-
ing for us out there.”

ALIENS 77
 SCENARIO 1:
Little Drone Lost

“Farsight Station to Central Office. We have a possible exoplanet in the Goldilocks

zone of a class G star. I repeat, we have a possible exoplanet in the Goldilocks zone.
Sending for confirmation and analysis of coordinates. This might be the one!”

Location: Nulla System, Colony of Neo

Synopsis
After extensive analysis, recent data from Farsight Station revealed a possible exo-
Mission Report
planet that could sustain life. As per standard protocol, a survey drone was dispatched
What follows are three adventures set
to the coordinates but before it could reach its destination the drone’s tracking signal
in the universe of Elevation and a table
of brief adventure hooks designed to went offline. According to its last transmission, it had entered the Nulla system to
be expanded by the Games Master into recalibrate and make its final rift jump. The player characters are dispatched to the
larger adventures. drone’s last position to attempt to recover it or learn its whereabouts.
Non-player characters in each scenario Upon arrival in system, they find a small field of debris from the drone and locate a
have the relevant template from the
faint trail leading back to the colony of Neo. After some investigation, the player char-
NPC chapter below noted in bold print,
acters learn that a local junk dealer and scavenger named Toovol found the drone and
and several variants for each template
are provided in that chapter to custom- is trying to auction it off to make some quick cash. Unfortunately some of his custom-
ize your encounters. ers have decided they would like the drone without paying his asking price.

A free introductory scenario called The The player characters must locate Toovol before someone else beats them to the
Triton Incident is also available from punch, all while avoiding CypherCorp acquisition agents, petty thugs with big ambi-
FrostByte Books’ website: tions, rival space explorers, and deadly cyborg ninjas, all bent on taking the drone for
www.frostbytebooks.com themselves.

78 LITTLE DRONE LOST

Main NPCs
Toovol
An Aroosian technician, junk dealer, and space scavenger, he stumbles upon an El-
evation survey drone and tries to auction it off to the highest bidder. He is greedy and
lazy, hoping to make a big score so he can spend more time online gaming.

Acquisitions Commander 9483

One of the faceless cogs in CypherCorp, he is a human officer who in charge of moni-
toring any activity by galactic explorers who might have promising leads on new plan-
ets. He is ruthless and callous in his duties, but also follows all company directives
Acquisitions Commander 9483
and protocols in the hopes of being noticed and promoted.

Batrus Jinx
A fixer for the Vellack criminal syndicate, he is a human criminal who keeps an eye
on all operations on Neo for his bosses and looks for any opportunity to make a quick
trade unit. He is a smooth talker and very charming, but underneath he is a relentless
shark that will kill anyone who gets in his way.

Arges
A top assassin in the Cyclops Clan, Arges is a human cyborg and is loyal to his mas-
ters and whoever is willing to pay his substantial fee. He rarely speaks and tries to
keep to the shadows when he is working, preferring his blades to do all the talking.

Mission Briefing
The characters are called in to meet with Jules Earther in her office at Elevation’s
headquarters in Houston, and immediately they notice she seems agitated. After ex-
changing brief pleasantries, she brings up two holographic displays above her desk.
One shows images from a deep space telescope showing the shadow of a planet
against a bright yellow star along side some numerical data. The other display is of a
star system labeled “Nulla” with several colored notes overlaid the map labeled “Rift
arrival point,” and “Last point of communication.”

LITTLE DRONE LOST 79

The Fate of Farsight
Director Earther paces the floor anxiously for a few moments, stopping occa-
If you played the introductory adventure sionally to stare at the images floating over her desk. She leans back against
The Taking of Farsight Station, you may
the wall before she starts speaking in a tight voice. “I brought you in because
need to make some adjustments to the
we have a bit of a problem. We recently uncovered some promising data from
character’s initial briefing based on the
outcome of that adventure. If the sta- an analysis of survey images from sector DRL-3491, and as per our standard
tion was destroyed in that scenario, the procedures I dispatched one of our few remaining deep space drones to gather
data Jules is referring to came from additional information. The drone was scheduled to stop in the Nulla system
one of the last batches of information to recalibrate before it made its final rift jump, but we lost track of it before it
transmitted from the station prior to its
could complete its calculations.” With a jab of her finger at the system map,
destruction.
she continues, “Its automated comm cut out right about here, out of range of
normal shipping lanes within the system. I believe the drone may have mal-
functioned, which sadly is not uncommon these days, but I need you to go
make sure and recover it if it did. The data on-board is far too valuable to risk
falling into someone else’s hands, so this needs to be first priority for you. And
if you have no other option, you need to destroy it before anyone else can ac-
cess the coordinates. Do you have any questions?”

Director Earther will answer any questions they have about the drone, the Nulla
system, and any potential risks they might encounter out there. Information on the
Ranger class drones, the Nulla system, and Neo is listed above, and Jules adds in the
following information about things to watch out for:

»» CypherCorp practically owns the entire star system, and their patrol craft
keep a tight perimeter on all well-traveled trade lanes. They will not re-
strict travel in and out of system under normal circumstances, but if they
believe the characters have potentially valuable data on an unknown sys-
tem they will not hesitate to detain them.

»» Because CypherCorp has looser laws and restrictions in system, there are
many dangerous criminal syndicates that take advantage of the freedom
to be had there.

»» A clan of assassins known as the Cyclops Clan is said to be based in the

colony of Neo, and CypherCorp often hires them as muscle and to elimi-
nate rivals.

80 LITTLE DRONE LOST

 »» Director Earther will assign them their own Starseeker for the mission and
give it a standard load out of equipment and a pair of liftbikes for trans-
portation if needed. They are also given one of the few remaining Ranger
class survey drones with instructions to launch it as soon as they arrive in
system. It is pre-loaded with the coordinates of the unknown system, and
Director Earther hopes they can still salvage the survey mission even if the
missing drone has been compromised. The characters can also make any
special requests for equipment, but she will remind them that this mission
is to be kept low-key and the more attention they draw means more atten-
tion to the missing survey drone.

Arrival in Nulla
Once equipped and on board their ship, the characters head out to one of the estab-
lished focal gates in the Sol system and make their rift jump to the Nulla system. If
they plan to jump to one of the established destination points within the system, it is
an Easy Astrogation check for the rift jump but they will have to travel several hours to
the site where contact with the drone was lost. If they wish to jump in closer to the last
known location, a successful Astrogation check is required. Failure on this roll puts
them nearly a day out from the site and a critical failure causes a malfunction in their
rift drive that needs repaired before they can use it again.

Launching the back-up survey drone is mostly automated, but an Easy Astrogation
check is required to ensure it heads off in the optimal direction to reach the unknown
system as fast as possible.

Searching for the missing drone requires a Sensors check and about an hour of time.
If this check is failed the characters can attempt again but each missed check takes
up more time and affects their ability to track the drone. Once successful, read the
following:

The sensors ping on a small field of debris close to the last know position of
the survey drone. An image appears of a grouping of pieces of broken polymer,
bits of melted metal, and broken pieces of a solar power panel. The ship’s

LITTLE DRONE LOST 81

Breaking the Law
computer confirms that they are components of the Ranger class drones, but
If the characters end up on the wrong there is not nearly enough to account for the whole thing. As the analysis
side of CypherCorp security, they may
comes in, the computer also indicates there are micro-droplets of some type
be detained until a tribunal of corporate
of starship lubricant that is not used on the drones.
lawyers can determine the extent of the
charges and the proper time in lock-up The lubricant comes from the Skua, the junk ship piloted by the Aroosian scavenger
or fine associated with crime. Need- Toovol. Like most of his belongings, Toovol does not invest a lot of time in maintaining
less to say this will end their mission to
the Skua and it has a miniscule but persistent lubricant leak from its engines. He was
retrieve the survey drone and get them
out looking for space junk to salvage when his sensors picked up the drone’s rift jump
in hot water with Elevation. To keep
the adventure going you may want to and he headed out to see if it was something valuable. The drone malfunctioned while
provide an opportunity for escape, per- making its calculations for the second jump and lost power, so when Toovol found it
haps while they are being transported he brought it on board and immediately headed back to Neo to discover more about
to the local security station, or let them his new prize. While he can’t hack the drone’s security measures, Toovol believes any-
grease the palm of a greedy security of-
one who can afford what he asks will be able to. The characters can attempt to track
ficer or two to drop the charges.
the trail of leaking lubricant with a successful Sensors check, but the check is at Hard
It should also be noted that powered difficulty if they took longer than two hours to locate the debris field. Even if they are
melee weapons and firearms are not
unable to follow the trail, the characters know that Neo is the only settlement in this
allowed to be carried on Neo. Permits
system and the trail is headed in that general direction.
for pistols can be purchased at the port
authority for 100 trade units per week, Navigating to Neo is relatively simple, but due to the volume of space traffic there
and anything else must be hidden or
the trail of lubricant is lost as soon as they get to the planet. A critical success on the
the character runs the risk of being ac-
Sensors check to track it will indicate the thief went to the space port on the east side
costed by security patrols.
of the colony, but that still doesn’t narrow down their search by that much. Read the
following when they get above the colony:

After breaking through the dense cloud cover you catch sight of the sprawling
neon-lit maze that is the colony of Neo. The city center is a densely packed
cluster of skyscrapers and office buildings that nearly reach the same clouds
you passed through, and that is surrounded by miles of tenements, smaller
offices, and massive factories that spread out like spokes on a wagon wheel.
Even this high up you can see the flashing holographic billboards, the strobing
spotlights marking glitzy nightclubs, and the angry swarms of lift vehicles vy-
ing for room on the fast-moving skylanes. There is a sinking feeling in the pit of
your stomach at the prospect of trying to find the drone in this mess.

82 LITTLE DRONE LOST

It is easy to get permission to land at any of the three major space ports in the colony
and the characters have a stipend that will pay for any docking fees while they are
there. No check is required to land the ship under normal circumstances, and as soon
as their Starseeker is landed a CypherCorp registration service robot arrives to collect
the characters’ personal information, employer, and reason for their visit.

If the characters provide their actual names and who they work for, they are tagged
by a protocol CypherCorp has in place regarding Elevation. The company knows El-
evation has limited resources and only sends out its people on promising leads, so
CypherCorp security will assign Acquisitions Commander 9483 to begin observing
the characters while they are on planet. Primarily this will be done through the CCTV
street cameras all over town, and the Starseeker will be tagged with multiple tracking
beacons while in dock. He will also dispatch a pair of plain clothes security agents
to shadow the characters and watch their movements. Characters can pick up on this
with a successful Insight or Perception check against the agents’ Stealth skill of 65%.
The agents are armed with mag pistols and concealed armor (armor rating of 3), and
they will attempt to flee or call for back-up if confronted.

Characters wanting to keep a low profile can attempt to present false information to Extended Conflict: Robot Hacking
the robot with a successful Forgery check against its Insight skill of 75%. They can also Skills: Computer or Electronics
attempt to hack the robot, which is an extended conflict against the robot’s Willpower
Conflict Pool: INT
skill of 60% and its POW pool of 12.
Round Length: 1 turn/check
Characters can also use Comms to disable or jam its communicator and Brawling to
Robot: 60%, Pool 12
grab it to keep it from escaping. If the robot wins this conflict or sees through their
deception, it immediately alerts CypherCorp security to the attempted hack. This re-
sults in the ship’s landing platform being locked down and a squad of eight CyperCorp
security agents being dispatched to their location to arrest them for attempted un-
authorized intrusion of company property. The security forces will attempt to subdue
the characters if they resist and impound their ship.

LITTLE DRONE LOST 83

 4

5
1

NEO

84 LITTLE DRONE LOST

Locating Toovol Map of Neo

1. Eastern Space Port

Finding whoever took the drone in a colony of millions is a veritable needle in a hay-
2. CypherCorp Corporate Offices
stack, but there are several options the characters can try to locate the thief.
3. The Fueling Station
The Lubricant
4. Toovol’s Junkyard
Spaceships have some common parts, but since there are countless manufacturers
5. Abandoned Factory
across several species they all have unique quirks and requirements. The lubricant
that the Skua is leaking is very distinctive, and a successful Mechanics check lets the
characters identify it as an older Rajolan brand that isn’t commonly available. A search
through local suppliers takes about two hours (or one with a successful Commerce or
Research check), and it locates a parts store in the industrial district called Deevos
Parts. The owner, a human merchant named Hank Deevos, is reluctant to give out
information on a customer, but he can be persuaded with a successful Deceit or Influ-
ence check against his Insight of 60%. This check is Easy difficulty if the characters
offer a bribe of at least 100 trade units. He tells them an Aroosian junk dealer comes
in every few weeks to purchase the oil, but he doesn’t know his name and the custom-
er always pays in hard currency. Searching local databases and a successful Locale
(Neo) or Research check directs them to Toovol’s junk shop at the edge of the city.

The Ship
If they were able to track the lubricant trail back to Neo, the characters know the
thief’s ship left with the drone three hours (plus any additional time it took for them
to locate the debris) before they arrived. With an approximate time, the characters
can make inquiries at the local port authority office about ships that landed around
that same time. The office is headed up by a human bureaucrat named Ilvin Poll, and
he takes his job quite seriously. Since the information is not public knowledge, they Robotic Assistance

will need a successful Bureaucracy or Influence check against Ilvin’s Insight of 75% to If the characters managed to hack into
the spaceport robot after landing, they
get the information. Attempting to bribe him will increase the difficulty of the check
can use it to access the port authority
to Hard, and being belligerent or threatening will result in Ilvin calling the colonial
database to see what ships landed and
security forces. If they are successful, the characters learn only three ships landed at
who registered from them. It allows
that particular time: a CypherCorp water transport ship in the northern spaceport, a them to access the same data as above,
civilian mass transport ship from Terra in the southern spaceport, and an older model but also gives Toovol’s name and that
Rajolan salvage vessel called the Skua in the eastern spaceport. Further investiga- he returned with salvage for sale.

LITTLE DRONE LOST 85

 tion of the Skua does not list an owner, but it is registered to dummy company called
Secondhand Treasures. Toovol won’t return to the Skua for several days, long after
the auction is complete, and he moved the drone to his junk yard immediately after
landing. Characters can break into his ship with a successful Lockpicking or Hard
Mechanics check, and inside they can find some of his salvage records that list the
address of his junk yard.

The Sale
If the characters are patient, they can search local auction sites on the dataweb with
a successful Research check, or find some of the seedier virtual auction houses with a
successful Streetwise check. Toovol posts the auction an hour after he gets back to his
residence so he can unload the drone as fast as he can. He tries to keep to the black
market sites, but word of his sale gets out on several forums for explorers looking for
data on planetary systems. The posting reads:

“To all interested parties: I have a Ranger class survey drone belonging to the
Elevation organization. I believe it contains extremely valuable coordinates for
an uncharted system. The bidding starts at one hundred thousand trade units.”

There is a contact mailbox with no information on the seller, and the account only
accepts bids along with valid payment information for the buyer. The winning bid will
be picked after twelve hours and the buyer will be contacted with a location to pick
up the drone.

The Under world

News of the sale of an Elevation survey drone travels fast, and if they have no where
else to look the characters can attempt to gather information from less savory sources
to learn about the sale. A Streetwise check can put them on the trail of some places in
Neo to ask around about the sale of stolen goods, and if successful they are directed
to a local fixer for the powerful Velleck Syndicate named Batrus Jinx who has informa-
tion on the auction. If they make contact, he agrees to meet them in a seedy bar called
the Fueling Station and is happy to give them the information for 1000 trade units.
They can try to negotiate this price down with a successful Deceit or Influence check,
with a success reducing it to 750 and a critical success dropping it to 250. He then
directs them to the auction for the drone and his suspicions that Toovol is the one who

86 LITTLE DRONE LOST

snatched it, since the Aroosian has tried to sell stolen space junk to the syndicate in
the past. While Batrus plays the part of a kindly information broker, he is shrewd and
keeps tabs on the characters just in case they could find a way to acquire the survey
drone and do his dirty work for him. If he is threatened, seven thugs around the bar
leap to his defense and to cover his escape.

The Highest Bidder

If the characters failed to locate Toovol’s junk yard by other means, the auction is their Extended Conflict: Hacking

only lead to the missing drone. The characters can submit a bid, but they only have ac- Skills: Computers to hack in, Forgery to
cess to 5000 trade units for emergencies and Elevation doesn’t have the resources to falsify data
front them more money to keep pace with the other bidders. They can try to hack into Conflict Pool: INT
the system to either post falsified credit records or learn where the original auction
Round Length: 10 minutes
posting came from. Both are extended conflicts against the auction site’s security,
which has a skill rating of 70% and a pool of 15. Site Security: 70%, Pool 15

Failure shuts them out of the site. Success in falsifying financial information allows
them to easily win the bid since the auction site only needs payment data and Toovol
won’t realize he has been duped until he tries to access the funds the day after the

LITTLE DRONE LOST 87

 auction is completed. If the characters manage to hack the site and access the user
data, they learn the posting was created at a small cafe called Byte to Eat in the indus-
trial area on the east side of town. They can question the cafe staff, and with a suc-
cessful Deceit or Influence check they are told a local junk dealer named Toovol was
in there earlier bragging about all the money he was going to make. Hacking his user
account also gives them access to his private messages and they can learn where he
plans to meet the winner to trade the drone after the auction is complete.

To the Victor Goes the Spoils

What happens next depends on what course the characters took and if they managed
to locate Toovol or where he is meeting the winner with the drone. The characters will
either need to confront Toovol on his home turf, or they will have to find a way to get
the drone back during the exchange.

One Man’s Trash

Toovol resides in a sprawling junkyard on the far side of Neo at the edge of the indus-
trial area of the colony. He acquired his filthy home from the previous owner, another
junk dealer that he previously worked for. The place is a maze of trash, junked vehi-
cles, and massive rusting hulls from spaceships. Almost nothing there has any value,
but he manages to get by selling scrap to industrial plants and hauling wrecks both on
world and in space. He has a small hovel built out of the hull of an old transport ship
near the center of the junk yard, and when he is not working he can be found there
playing online games, sleeping, or watching streams of dataweb vids. If the characters
manage to track him down before the sale is complete he will be in his home and the
survey drone is inside the attached garage in the bed of his lift truck.

The gates are locked and there is a makeshift wall that averages at least five metres
tall. Getting past the lock requires a successful Lockpicking roll, while climbing over
the walls needs an Athletics check. Characters can also use their lift bikes to fly over
the walls, but the colony has a flight restriction on air traffic outside of approved sky
lanes. Automatic inhibitors on the bikes limit them to three metres, so getting over
the wall either requires a successful Drive check and something to use as a ramp, or a
Hard Mechanics check to disable to inhibitor.

88 LITTLE DRONE LOST

While he is not terribly clever, Toovol is para-
noid enough to set up some alarms and simple
traps in the junk yard to scare off intruders. He
B
used the optical sensors that open starship B B
doors to make triggers for these traps, setting
C
them up at various points around the junkyard B
B
at one and a half metres above the ground to C

allow his pets to walk around the site. Toovol

C
conceals the triggers under junk to camouflage A
them, and it takes a successful Hard Perception
C B
check to notice them. He has one set up at the
gates that triggers an alarm in his home if any- B

one opens them. The other ones are marked on C

B C
the map of the junkyard.
B
»» Those marked with a B sound differ-
B
ent alarms on Toovol’s wristcomp to
alert him as to where intruders are.
He uses this to track intruders or es-
cape from them.

»» Those marked with a C are linked to small explosive charges set under Junkyard
piles of loose trash and scrap. If the trigger is tripped, the charge goes A. Toovol’s Home
off and sends a barrage of refuse and shrapnel into an five metre wide B. Alarms
area around the trigger. Anyone in the area takes 1d6 damage with a force C. Explosive Triggers
of Large to 1d3 random locations and must make a successful Evade or
Acrobatics check or be trapped under the trash. Trapped characters can
pull themselves free with a successful Brawn check or wiggle free with
Athletics, or other characters can use Brawn to free them.

He also keeps a trio of ravenous, barely trained alien beasts known as Garzu, danger-
ous predators about the size of a small lion. When he is at home they are set loose to
roam the junk yard near his residence, and he keeps them hungry enough that they
will attack anything other than him on sight.

LITTLE DRONE LOST 89

Batrus Jinx
Shortly after the characters enter the junkyard, some other interested parties arrive
Batrus Jinx and his gang of ten thugs arrive looking to take the drone from Toovol – see sidebar for details.
within ten minutes of the characters arrival,
or within two minutes if they had previously Toovol is a coward, so if he thinks someone is coming get him or his prize he will try to
made contact with him and he is keeping escape if he can or hide if escape is not an option. He knows the junkyard like the back
tabs on them. Batrus remains outside in his of his hand and has many hiding spots amidst the garbage. If the characters are able
lift car and sends his men in with orders to
to reach him before the others, he will beg for his life and promises them the survey
grab the survey drone and kill anyone who
drone if they can get him out alive. If they are able to reach it first, anyone left from the
tries to stop them or gets in their way. The
other parties will chase the characters and try to get the drone from them if possible.
thugs are armed with heavy mag pistols and
wear light body armor with an armor rating The Vellack thugs have three lift cars outside and Arges keeps a well-tuned lift cycle
of 3. They split into two groups of five and with its inhibitor protocols disengaged so he can take to the sky.
try to flank Toovol’s home to keep him from
escaping, but they are subject to any traps Buyer Beware
or Garzu the characters didn’t take care of. Whether they manage to find a way to win the auction or figure out where Toovol is
meeting the buyer, the characters can try to get the drone back after the sale is com-
Arges the Cyclops Clan Assassin
plete. Toovol arranges to meet the winner of the auction in an empty factory building
Arges the Cyclops Clan assassin was hired
on the very edge of Neo’s southeast side. He built a simple robot to drive his lift truck
by an executive within CypherCorp to go re-
trieve the survey drone and kill Toovol. The into the building with the drone in the bed while he remains safely outside across the
executive, an ambitious regional vice presi- street in an alley monitoring things through the robot’s optic sensors. He waits until
dent named Lara Dontague, believes that if he sees the winner arrive at the factory before he sends his truck over, and as soon
there is valuable information on the drone as the drone is removed he drives it back to the alley and leaves as quickly as he can.
it will be her ticket to a promotion, and her
training in accounting saw the assassin’s If the characters don’t win, representatives from CypherCorp pay a handsome sum
price as more affordable than bidding in the for the drone and dispatches Acquisitions Commander 9483 and a squad of eight se-
auction. Arges is already on sight survey- curity agents to retrieve the drone. The security forces arrive in three heavy duty lift
ing Toovol’s junk yard from a vantage point SUVs and five of the agents take positions around the building near other exit points
atop one of the large magnetic cranes used
to make sure it is secure (marked as Xs on the map). 9483 and the remaining agents
to haul scrap. He is highly skilled and ruth-
wait to meet Toovol’s truck and load the drone into the back of one of their vehicles.
less, attacking anyone who he views as a
threat as long as he can do so without en- Once the trade is complete, the CypherCorp staff drive back to a secure facility five
dangering himself. He keeps to the shad- kilometres away in the heart of the city.
ows and uses the tops of any stable piles
The characters can attempt to take the drone at any point, but they need a success-
of junk to maneuver around the traps and
ful Perception or Track check to find where Toovol is prior to the trade. If he notices
Garzu, and he tries to play the characters
against the Vellack thugs if they are all in them approaching, he will try to speed off in his truck and lose them in the city before
the junkyard at the same time. heading back to his junkyard. If the CypherCorp agents are there and notice the com-

90 LITTLE DRONE LOST

 No Other Option
motion, they will join in the chase as well. If the characters attempt to grab the drone
from the agents after they pick it up, 9483 will radio for back-up and order his men to As mentioned in Director Earther’s
speech earlier, the characters have
shoot to kill. It only takes a few minutes for countless CypherCorp security to converge
the option to destroy the survey drone
on 9483’s position, so the characters need to act fast.
if there is any chance its data could be
To further complicate matters, you can also add in Batrus Jinx and Arges from the compromised. If they were successful
in launching the back-up drone, then
encounter above. They both have the resources to hack into the auction site to find
destroying it may be the best option.
where the trade is happening, and they are equally motivated to acquire the drone.
They have access to schematics for the
Batrus’ men don’t hesitate to open fire on anyone who either has the drone or is trying
Ranger class drones, and the coordi-
to get it, and Arges’ employer has no issue with him killing CypherCorp personnel as nates would be stored in the memory
long as she can’t be implicated. core at the center of the device. A Me-
chanics or Computers check will inform
them that the computer plastic of the
Conclusion memory core needs to be subjected to
intense heat or something corrosive
If the characters manage to recover the survey drone and get it back to their ship, or if to completely destroy it and any data it

they are able to destroy its memory core, it is mission accomplished and they will be contains.

commended by Director Earther upon their return. Depending on how they managed
to get the drone and who they crossed along the way, they may also find themselves
with some dangerous new enemies looking for revenge.

If they are unable to get the drone back or destroy its data, the outcome depends on
who managed to get it. If either Acquisitions Commander 9483 or Arges manages to
get the drone, the outcome is the same. CypherCorp easily cracks the security within
a few days and sends its own survey drones out to the coordinates to gather infor-
mation. This will affect the next adventure, as detailed in the Race Against the Clock
sidebar below. If Batrus Jinx got the drone, he passes it onto his bosses in the Vel-
lack Syndicate. They eventually crack the security, but it takes them longer and does
not affect the next adventure but will factor into the final adventure (see Mobsters in
Space below).

LITTLE DRONE LOST 91

 SCENARIO 2:
The Broker

“Only broker I am in all this rock who has what you need. Have something everyone
needs, if trade units are nice. Hope your trade units are nice. Would hate to see you
stuck on this rock. Think you hate to see that too.”

Location: Barterdome

Synopsis
After data is received back from the second survey drone, the player characters take
it to the nearest APRC branch office to register the information before someone else
can make a claim. The most centralized of the offices is on the colony of Barterdome,
and as long as there are no loose ends from their encounter on Neo the characters
make it to the office without any major issue. Upon arrival, they must navigate through
the maze of tunnels, cramped streets, and shifting gravity planes to get to the office.

While the registration process is involved and the official in charge is a stickler, they
are able to eventually complete it and are granted thirty galactic median days to sur-
vey the system before the claim expires. But upon returning to their ship, they dis-
cover it won’t take off due to a crucial component wearing out. The part is one that
can’t be jury rigged or replaced with something similar, and a search reveals a Rajolan
merchant known as Vincen the Broker is the only one who has a replacement. He is
already aware of their credit rating and offers them a part... for fifty thousand trade
units more than they have.

The Broker offers to give them the part at reduced cost if they perform a few tasks for
him. These tasks are either illegal or morally questionable, so the characters must
decide how far they are willing to go to get the part as the time on their claim ticks

92 THE BROKER
away. They can also look for others on the colony who are willing to pay for their help,
locate legitimate jobs, or find more dubious means to earn the money they need. But
no matter what they do, the clock is against them if they want to get to the new system
before time runs out and a rival poaches their claim.

Main NPCs

Sub-Bureaucrat Porsal
A Rajolan bureaucrat and worker at the APRC office on Barterdome, he takes his
job very seriously and follows the regulations set by his employer to a tee. He is no-
nonsense, humorless, and will not tolerate any missed or incorrect information on a
claim made in his office. He also has the utmost integrity, and is angered at attempts
to sweet talk, cajole, or bribe him to shirk his duties.

Vincen the Broker

A Rajolan merchant on Barterdome, Vincen specializes in difficult to find items and
ship parts and runs a lucrative business out of a large storefront in the main dock
district of the colony. What most people don’t realize is he engineers most of his busi-
ness by having his goons sabotage ships or steal items he doesn’t have, and then
overcharges his buyers for things only he can obtain. He is all business in interactions
like most Rajoans, but he is pitiless and never backs down on his price unless he can
get something else out of the buyer that is more valuable to him.

Kella Orson
Kella is a human merchant who came to Barderdome to fulfill a dream to see her art in
homes all across the galaxy, but things were not as easy as she thought. Not wanting
to give up on her dream, she borrowed some trade units from a shady backer to pay
for better advertising. It worked and her gallery began to take off, but her backer now
claims he owns the majority share in her business and she is desperate to get out of
the crooked deal. Kella is friendly and kind, helping out anyone less fortunate than
her if she is able, but her gentle demeanor is beginning to suffer under the stress of
the harassment by her backer.

THE BROKER 93
 Gerbil
An Aroosian technician and information broker, Gerbil has a rare and incurable pul-
monary disorder that relegates him to a sealed and highly filtered environment at all
times. To that end he built a series of tubes made of advanced computer plastic that
he also resides in, and his home is one of the most powerful computers in all the gal-
axy. He sells information to whoever needs it and often relies on others for help since
he is stuck in his plastic home. Gerbil is awkward and a bit shy in person, preferring
virtual communication over face-to-face contact. He also is surrounded by a constant
stream of information, and spouts out random factoids for no reason.

Mission Briefing
Just as the characters arrive back in the Sol system en route to the Elevation base,
either from the previous adventure or a side mission after their time in Neo, they get
a priority communication from Director Earther. It is obvious when the video comes
through that she is excited about something.

Director Earther can barely contain her excitement, not even giving you a chance to
say hello before she blurts out:

“I think we found one! The information stream just came in from the survey
drone you launched and it found a planet in the Goldilocks zone in the un-
known system. Now we can’t be certain until we take a closer look, but initial
readings indicate that it has all the hallmarks of a potentially habitable world!
And while that is good news for Elevation, I’m afraid it may be bad news for
you. Right now that is our only working Starseeker, so until we can finish main-
tenance on the others you are the only bird in the air. I hate to do this, but I
need you to turn around and head out to Barterdome so we can begin registra-
tion of the data with the APRC immediately.”

She transmits the data recovered from the survey drone to their ship and then takes
time to answer any of their questions. She doesn’t have a lot of information about the
DRL-3491 seen from space unknown system, but Director Earther knows the following:

94 THE BROKER
 »» The drone reported back that there are eight planetary bodies around
a yellow main sequence star. Two of the worlds are gas giants and the
third planet’s atmosphere and temperature readings fall in line with the
range typical of a type I planet. The planet has a single lunar body in orbit
around it.

»» While the drone did not pick up any transmissions or distinct signals from
the planet, it sent back pictures that show large bodies of liquid water and
several distinct landmasses.

»» According to the most recent stellar database, the system, designated

DRL-3491, has not had any claims filed on it and remains an unclassified
system at this time.

»» The survey drone went offline after it transmitted the data stream as per
normal operating protocols. It used the last of its power reserves to make
the transmission and when it last reported in it was in orbit around the
third planet.

The other two Starseekers are down for annual maintenance and won’t be functional
for at least another week. Barring any side trips, the characters have enough Nebu-
lium for another 540 light years of rift jumps. Barterdome is a 90 light year jump from
the Sol system, and Director Earther will approve the funds if the characters want to
refuel while at the colony. She will also approve an additional 5000 trade units for
them to resupply other vital equipment such as foodstuffs, exploration supplies, and
weapons and ammunition.

Arrival on Barterdome
The route to Barterdome is well established and the rift coordinates are used so often
that most ships have them pre-loaded into their navigation systems, so unless the
characters want to get there faster or jump in at an usual destination it is an Easy
Astrogation check to get there. Upon arrival though they quickly find the system is not
as easy to navigate through.

THE BROKER 95
Do You Have a Permit for That?
As the ship emerges from the rift, you nearly collide with a fast moving private
Weapons are restricted on Barterdome, luxury vessel that rockets past so close you can see the angry pilot’s obscene
especially firearms of any type and ex-
gesture through your viewport. All around you ships of various sizes jockey for
plosive devices. Characters are not per-
position as they head towards Barterdome or try to get to one of the countless
mitted to bring any weapon larger than
a knife or baton out of their landing bay, focal gates that surround the colony.
and there are weapons detectors built A Piloting check is required to maneuver through the ship traffic safely, and a fail-
into the airlock doors that allow entry
ure results in a minor collision that inflicts 1d8 damage to the characters’ ship and
into the colony. It is possible to either
prompts another immediate Piloting check to regain control. If they pay attention,
bypass the detectors or shield weapons
to get them past, but Rajolan security the characters witness several other minor collisions but none of them seem to slow
measures are very advanced so it is not down the countless ships zipping past. Once they are closer to the colony, read the
easy to do. A successful Hard Electron- following:
ics or Sensors check allows the weapon
scanner to be bypassed for a short peri-
There’s no mistaking Barterdome when you see it. Carved out of an asteroid
od of time (a few minutes), while a Hard the size of a small moon, the crater-marked surface is dotted with artificial
Conceal check can hide a single weap- domes, some the size of a football field and others larger than a city. Ships
on from being detected. Failing any of with just as much variety in size buzz around it like swarms of bees surround-
these checks causes the hanger to be ing a hive, some docking, some leaving, and others working to maintain the
locked down as detailed above.
external systems that keep the colony going. From what you know this is one of
Characters can also purchase tempo- the most neutral places in the known galaxy, a hub of commerce and melting
rary weapons permits from the port
pot of species. Somewhere inside its titanic mass is the office that you need
authority. Permits for non-powered
to find.
melee weapons less than one metre in
length cost 25 trade units per day and Landing is an automated process since the port authority guides ships in using beams
powered melee weapons cost 50 per of artificial gravity, loading them into towering stacks of landing bays that rotate and
day. Non-lethal energy weapon permits
shift to accommodate the countless ships that dock daily. Upon arrival, the characters
(including cussors) cost 100 trade units
must register at an automated kiosk in every landing bay. This requires them to give
per day. No other weapon or explosive
device has a permit available and pos-
personal information, but because of the Rajolan emphasis on trade, they must also
session of one results in the weapon submit to a quick credit check. This makes note of their funds on hand as well as
being confiscated and has a fine of 5000 any trade units associated with their ship account. Characters can attempt to falsify
trade units. their personal information or credit rating, but the Rajolans have very strong security
measures and any Computers check to hack their system or Forgery check to generate
false records is at Formidable difficulty. Failure in these checks flags the attempt and
locks down the landing bay until correct information is submitted.

96 THE BROKER
 Race Against the Clock
If CypherCorp managed to take pos-
session of the survey drone in the last
adventure, they send out their own sur-
vey probes to the unknown system to
gather information. Since the APRC will
not allow an office on Neo due to con-
flict of interest, the corporation must
submit their application on Barterdo-
me just like anyone else. If he was not
killed during the previous adventure,
Acquisitions Commander 9483 (or an-
other numbered agent if he was killed)
and a group of six CypherCorp security
agents arrive on Barterdome within six
hours of the characters’ arrival. If the
characters managed to complete their
application before that time, the Cy-
pherCorp agents will attempt to locate
them to either kill the characters or of-
fer them a substantial payoff (at least
one hundred thousand trade units) to
rescind their application.

The inside of Barterdome houses eight different sections and each has its own gravity
plane, with the smallest section at a scale larger than all of New York City. Buildings
are stacked like logs and hang off the side of the walls so no space is wasted, and
the domes above stream a hologram of a blue-gray sky that cycles through a twenty
hour day. The artificial sky also plays commercials and has areas sponsored by various
companies, featuring their logos floating in holographic clouds. The colony is always
moving, with pedestrians clogging walkways and lift vehicles zooming around in a
chaotic ballet. If the characters take the time, they can find nearly anything for sale
somewhere on Barterdome. Some items are regulated and restricted (see above re-
garding weapons), and slavery of any form is illegal, but nearly anything else can be
located there.

THE BROKER 97
Extended Conflict: Driving to APRC Filed in Triplicate
Skills: Driving, and characters can
augment with Locale (if they are na- Locating the APRC office is easy enough with the navigation systems on the charac-
tive to Barterdome or another Rajolan ters’ wristcomps, but traveling through Barterdome can be a harrowing experience in
colony) and Navigation (to not get lost
and of itself. The colony is a massive jumble of congested streets and sky ways, oddly
in the twists and turns)
shaped buildings jutting from odd angles, and shifting gravity between different sec-
Conflict Pool: DEX+INT/2 tions of the massive asteroid. An easier way is to hail one of the many drone taxis that
Round Length: 10 minutes ply the sky ways of the colony, and while the trip is stressful and expensive (250 trade

Traffic: 55%, Pool 11

units), it is uneventful. Getting to the office on their own is treated as an extended
conflict with a target pool of 11 and an opposed skill rating of 55% for whoever is driv-
ing (see sidebar).

Making Paperwork Fun! Failing this conflict results in them getting horribly lost somewhere in the wrong part
Paperwork and bureaucratic tasks are of Barterdome, which means they have to repeat the conflict against a pool of 13. A
usually the part of a roleplaying ses- critical failure on any check results in a crash with another vehicle during the trip.
sion that most Games Masters skip
Once there, they must take a number and wait an hour before they are ushered into
over to get on to the action, and if that
works best for your group that is fine. the tiny office of Sub-bureaucrat Porsal for processing. Porsal is as by-the-book as it
This adventure is more about the char- gets and he makes sure the characters complete all the required paperwork for their
acters trying to get their ship off the initial claim and he doesn’t tolerate mistakes or tomfoolery. If he ever feels like the
ground before they run out of time to characters are attempting to bypass part of the process, trick him, or if they try to
explore the unknown system. But the
threaten him, he taps an alarm button under his desk and seconds later a group of
bureaucratic side of space exploration
four security robots arrive to escort the characters out of the office. He is annoyed by
is an important part of the Elevation
questions that don’t pertain to the task at hand, and will either ignore them, or gently
setting, and the banality of how the
Rajolans handle red tape is something request the characters return when they can focus on the application.
that defines their culture. Here are
The actual process of application is a tedious affair that takes four hours to complete,
some suggestions on how spice up the
and it involves both electronic and hardcopy documentation. Elevation provides the
encounter with Porsal so it isn’t just a
dull series of die rolls. characters with all the technical data and system survey information they need, and
Porsal is there to make sure everything is completed as required and will provide
Playing Porsal: As the epitome of dry
guidance as needed. Between the application, the cramped, stuffy office, and the fact
civil servants, Porsal comes off as dis-
interested in anything but his precious that Porsal likes to keep it warm in his workspace, the characters may have a hard
paperwork, but ultimately he serves time getting through it all without succumbing to bureaucratic fatigue. At the end of
the APRC system and doesn’t want to each hour of the process, characters participating must make an Endurance check or
impede the due process of space ex- ... suffer a level of fatigue. A successful Bureaucracy check lowers the difficulty of these

98 THE BROKER
checks to Easy for any character who succeeds at the roll. If a character is too tired to
... ploration. While he doesn’t like distrac-
tions, he does love his job and if the
continue, they can tag in a fresh ally to take over for them. If all the characters are too
characters are floundering he could
fatigued to make the rolls, they fail to complete the process before the office closes
take steps to help them, or even offer
and Porsal tells them they need to start over again tomorrow before asking them to them some Rajolan coffee to perk them
leave. This may be especially important if there is a rival attempting to make a claim up (and eliminate a level or two of fa-
on the sector (see above). tigue).

If they are able to complete the process, Porsal submits their application to the APRC Action Application: Instead of a se-
ries of Endurance checks, the process
computer system as soon as they finish. In stark contrast to the actual application,
could be handled as an extended con-
the approval process seems to occur almost instantaneously and Porsal informs them
flict where the characters must fight
they may now begin the next stage of the claims process. The characters are given through the APRC red tape to regain
thirty galactic median days to do their detailed analysis of the unknown star system their freedom!
and report their findings back to the office on Barterdome so the APRC can make a
Skills: Endurance, augmented by Bu-
decision. Porsal also notes that time starts as soon as the application was approved reaucracy or Politics (to know how to
and recommends they head out as soon as possible. navigate the process) and Willpower (to
not be driven mad by the tediousness)

An Offer You Can’t Refuse Conflict Pool: CON+INT/2

Round Length: 1 hour

Whenever the characters get back to their Starseeker, they must report back to Eleva-
tion to let them know their progress. Director Earther messages back for characters to This is opposed by Porsal’s pool of 15
and his skill check of 75%, and failure
head out to the unknown system as soon as possible to begin the extended survey.
has the same results as above. Be sure
When the characters try to power up their ship, warning buzzers blare and lights start
to pepper the exchange with phrases
flashing as the craft’s emergency fail safes trigger a total shutdown of the drive. The like the ones below delivered in the
internal monitoring systems indicate that a part called the “stabilization field coil” has most melodramatic way possible when-
failed and needs replaced before the Starseeker can take off. ever Porsal damages their pool:

The stabilization field coil is one of the most vital components of the ship’s rift drive “I said to use only black ink!”

and Nebulium containment field, and operating without one is impossible. Even if a “That’s not form 392A! That’s form
character tries to jury rig it (with a successful Formidable Mechanics check), there 392A1!”
would still be a significant risk of catastrophic failure during a rift jump as the coil “You left box 32b blank! Now we need to
disintegrates from the strain, leaving them stranded in the unknown system at best or start the entire page over again!”
turning them into a cloud of space dust at worst.

If the characters take time to study the coil, a successful Repair check reveals the part
is worn down from use, but some of the wear appears to be manufactured and the

THE BROKER 99
Part and Parcel
deed was done recently. Unless there is some tension within the group that causes
Characters may contact Elevation to them to point fingers, they may assume that their ship was somehow sabotaged. A
see about having a replacement stabili-
Computers check shows that the main entry hatch was accessed while they were out
zation field coil sent to them. Ryson has
at the APRC office, and taking an hour to review footage from the ship’s external cam-
the replacement part, but due to the
shipping needs it will take ten days for eras shows two humans wearing goggles and scarves to conceal their features enter-
it to arrive at Barterdome and the char- ing the landing bay around the same time. A successful Perception check notices one
acters are instructed to look for other of the men is wearing a stylized wristcomp with a bright red design on the side. The
options first. port authority for Barterdome has no records of who entered their landing bay. The
Enterprising characters may try to fab- characters can request access to the local street cameras with a Bureaucracy check
ricate a new one. This is possible with or try to hack in with a Hard Computers check, but the footage only reveals the two
a successful Mechanics check, but it men arriving in a black lift car already wearing the disguises. A successful Perception
takes five days, requires specialized
check notices the car has a dent on the left rear panel right above the gravity nodes.
materials, and a fabrication facility with
the right equipment to engineer and Whether the characters uncover the sabotage or not, they still need a new stabiliza-
create the coil. The cost to acquire the tion coil and time is ticking away. A search of local parts dealers shows the only mer-
materials and rent the facility would be chant in all of Barterdome who has the coil is Vincen the Broker. He runs a large shop
comparable to what Vincen charges,
called Vincen’s Brokerage in the same section as their landing bay, but he only deals
so it may be an alternative if they don’t
in person and will not deliver. Upon arrival read the following:
want to deal with the Broker.
The automatic doors give way to a vast open room, brightly lit from recessed
lights high above. All around you people of various species sift through display
holograms of items of all kinds, from appliances to high-end sports vehicles.
As purchases are made small robots fly out of tubes to finalize electronic pay-
ment and print out slips that are given to the buyer. High up on the wall oppo-
site to you a well-dressed Rajolan watches it all from a window that overlooks
the whole store. It all seems to flow with the precision of an expensive time-
piece, but not all of the customers seem happy with their transaction. A burly
Gres starts shouting, “This is robbery! Your price is twenty-five thousand more
than it’s worth! You’re a crook and I’m reporting you to the Merchants Guild!”
He starts loping in the direction of the Rajolan, but before he gets within a few
metres several of the robots fire pulses of energy that sends the Gres sprawl-
ing to the floor. As the robots haul the unconscious man past you and out the
main door, the Rajolan touches something on the glass in front of him and his
voice booms out into the room. “Prices do not negotiate. Sales are final.”

100 THE BROKER

 On High Alert
If the characters use the inventory displays, they find the coil quickly. The system
scans them and displays the financial information they gave upon entry to Barterdo- Cautious (or paranoid) players may opt
to leave someone behind to watch over
me. It then lists the price of the part as fifty thousand more than they currently have.
the ship while they are at the APRC
It gives options to “pay now” or “pay in trade.” If they choose the trade option, one of
office, or they may have a non-player
the robots flies down to them and on its display it has the words “follow me,” in seven character such as an XO series robot on
different languages. If they follow, they are taken to a door underneath Vincen’s office board. This could complicate the plot
window and inside there is a small conference table, several comfortable chairs, and point where the goons sabotage their
an automatic refreshment kiosk in the wall that provides beverages and light snacks. ship, so you may need to adjust the en-
counter a bit to account for this. A non-
The robot chirps and displays, “Please have a seat and make yourself comfortable,”
player character could have been sub-
before flying out of the room.
dued or knocked out by the thugs, leav-
After about fifteen minutes the far wall becomes translucent and reveals a small office ing them unconscious or disabled but
with a single chair on the other side. Vincen is seated in the chair and takes a moment still alive. This will obviously alert the
characters to something immediately
to regard the characters before he speaks.
upon their return. If it is a player char-
“D-7 stabilization field coil, custom built for Houston Shipyards, planet Terra. acter, you could have the goons utilize
Manufactured by Delreen Technologies. Went bankrupt over ten galactic me- some form of device that can be used

dian years ago. Only one on Barterdome. Vincen will trade in goods or services. outside the ship that targets a defect in
the Starseeker and fries their stabiliza-
What you have to give?”
tion coil. In this case the ship was never
The characters can offer any weapons, equipment, or vehicles they have with them, entered, but the goons can still be seen
but no matter what they offer Vincen tells them it is not enough. He asks if they would on the camera footage.

be willing to help him with three tasks as payment for the part. He wants them to
acquire a rare bottle of wine, a valuable vinyl record, and deal with an annoying rival.
If they are not able (or willing) to complete all three tasks, he will take one-third off
the price off for each one they finish. Vincen will not negotiate or budge on what he
is asking, and if the characters refuse or become belligerent, he reiterates the price
given and the wall becomes opaque once again. If they point out that his requests
are illegal, Vincen gives a slight smile and says, “Legality has price on Barterdome.”
If they become aggressive, a group of ten security robots emerge from hidden panels
around the room. They are outfitted with cussor pistols and will demand the charac-
ters leave immediately in monotone voices. They will attack if the characters refuse
or initiate combat, and if defeated Vincen will send out more robots (he has fifty at
his immediate disposal) and he will retreat to a safe room behind his office until the
characters are dealt with. His Rajolan nature means even if they are thrown out or

THE BROKER 101

Wine Options
become violent, he will still sell them the part if they can come up with the cash. If the
01. Dr. Iatric has a smart home sys- characters are willing to take Vincen up on his offer, the details and time frames for
tem throughout the townhouse, and as
his tasks are listed below.
soon as someone enters it activates.
While it is not artificially intelligent, it The Wine
recognizes his voice and will become
The owner of the wine is an Aarqun physician named Iatric who resides in a town-
alerted if it does not know the person(s)
present. This may cause it to alert the house in the central section of Barterdome. He came to the colony to work at one
authorities, lock up the house, or use of its finest surgical centers, and he spends most of his time at the hospital. His
the lighting, sound system, and other residence is in one of the few neighborhoods in the central section that has actual
automated items to make the charac- trees and the homes have small yards with natural plant life. If the characters spend
ters miserable unless they find a way to
some time observing the townhouse (at least 20 hours), they can learn Dr. Iatric works
disable or trick it.
twelve hour shifts at the hospital from noon until midnight. He lives alone, and his
02. Dr. Iatric has a Rajolan cleaning townhouse has a main door, a back door leading out to a small fenced-in garden, and
woman who comes to his home sev-
a balcony off the front of the third floor. His neighbors are home sporadically during
eral times a week to tidy up while he is
the day, and street cameras have a clear view of the front of the house at all times.
working. Her visit happens to coincide
with the time the characters are in the He has a security system on both doors, which requires a Electronics check opposed
home searching for the wine. Will they by the system’s skill of 70%. Failure means an alarm sounds and a private security
hide from her, subdue her, or find a way agency alerts the colonial authorities. Six security robots armed with cussor pistols
to trick her until they can get out? are dispatched and arrive within five minutes of the alarm being triggered. The bal-
03. Dr. Iatric forgot something and cony door is not alarmed but it is locked, requiring a Lockpicking (or Brawn for less
comes home early. Will he notice delicate characters) check to open. Reaching the balcony can be accomplished with
someone has broken into his home? an Athletics or Acrobatics check to climb up the wall, or accessing the roof of a near-by
Will the characters hide from him or
townhouse and climbing down.
subdue him? Or will they fall victim to
his natural telepathic abilities? He keeps the bottle of wine in a wine cooler in his kitchen on the second floor, and
there is a safe in his bedroom that has 5000 trade units of cash cards and rare medi-
tation crystals if opened (requiring a Hard Lockpicking check). This task can easily be
played as a simple burglary, but if you want to add some complications to make things
interesting consider the options in the sidebar.

The Album
The album in question is a first pressing of John Coltrane’s Blue Train, and it is one of
the few remaining copies in all of the galaxy. Vincen’s buyer is a jazz aficionado and
Opposite: Brokerage delivery robot demanded an actual vinyl copy, which the broker located in a private locker of the

102 THE BROKER

THE BROKER 103
Pose as Clients Admant Holding Company, a secure storage facility in the financial section of Barter-
It is possible to create a key card with dome. The album is in locker 58 on the first floor and it is kept in a climate controlled
a Forgery check if the characters have box in the back of the room. Vincen knows which locker it is in from his source and
access to a real one, or to steal one passes this information on to the characters. While it is not the most secure site in the
from an existing client. The guards
colony, Admant prides itself on keeping the belongings of its customers safe and has
don’t bother to check the identity of
several measures in place to ensure nothing is taken. There are eight security agents
anyone who has a card with them, but
once inside the characters will have to
(human and Rajolan) on site at all times, two manning the front entrance behind a
be careful of the patrolling guards while bulletproof glass window, one monitoring surveillance feeds in a locked office, and
they find a way to access locker 58. five more on patrol around the facility. They are armed with cussor pistols and wear
light body armor with a value of 4 to the head, chest, and abdomen. Access to the
Pose as Workers
storage lockers requires a DNA coded key card presented at the front desk, and the
Admant hires new guards fairly often
same key card is needed to open the lockers. There is a rear service entrance that is
and rotates its cleaning crews as well.
kept locked (Hard Lockpicking) and is only used when the shifts change for the guards
If the characters can acquire appropri-
or when the cleaning crew comes in late at night. Security cameras monitor the front
ate uniforms and arrive at the correct
time, they can attempt to pass them- entrance, the service door, and all the interior hallways. There is also one on the roof,
selves off as employees. This is treated and the ventilation systems there have motion sensors that sound an alert if someone
as an extended conflict against the ex- tries to access them (Electronics check to disable). The computer system that operate
isting staffs’ pool of 12 and Insight and the cameras has an internal server and can only be accessed from the security office
Perception skills of 60%.
inside.
Skills: Deceit, augmented by Acting (to
If the characters spend at least a full day (20 hours) observing the building, they can
play the role) and Disguise (to look the
role) learn the locations of all the external cameras, see when the guards rotate shifts
(every twelve hours), and learn the cleaning crew arrives at 2AM every day. They also
Conflict Pool: INT+CHA/2
see clients come and go occasionally, though this doesn’t occur at any fixed time. The
Round Length: 10 minutes
characters have several options to gain access to the facility, outlined in the sidebars.
Success gains them entry to the facil-
There are additional albums in the box as well as several antique brass instruments
ity, but still doesn’t give them access
and a jazz bass that would be worth 4000 trade units to the right collector. Also, the
to the locker unless they can get into
the security office (where all lockers record is very fragile, and any damage shatters it and renders it worthless.
can be opened), or they are able to pick
The Rival
the lock (average Lockpicking). Failure
alerts the guards and they contact colo- To Rajolans the idea of something being “just business” is the most personal thing
nial security and attempt to subdue the of all, and Vincen recently crossed paths with another dealer of rare items who is at-
characters. ... tempting to horn in on the Broker’s market. Pilaro the Seller saw Vincen’s success and

104 THE BROKER

 ... Sneak into the Building
With the level of security present, gain-
ing access to the building is no easy
task. Characters can attempt to get in
through the rooftop ventilation system
as detailed above, or they can attempt
to break in through one of the doors.
They can even try to pull a Trojan Horse
routine and get smuggled in as goods
destined to be stored there or in the
cleaning carts of the custodial crew.
You can run these attempts as extended
conflicts, using what pool and skills you
deem appropriate against the security
staff’s pool of 12 and a skill rating of
decided to copy as much as he could of his rival, and while he has not met with the 60%. Sneaking in is detailed below.
same success, he has a growing client base and has been increasingly successful in
Skills: Stealth, augmented by Electron-
acquiring rare and valuable items. When Vincen learned of his competitor, he was livid ics (to overcome security systems) and
and began plotting ways of taking down Pilaro before he became a real threat. The Lockpicking (to get past locked doors)
Broker views the characters as a good expendable tool to accomplish this task, so his
Conflict Pool: DEX+INT/2
final job is for them to find a way to eliminate Pilaro as a business rival by whatever
Round Length: 10 minutes
means necessary.
Success gets them into the building
Pilaro is a Rajolan merchant and he maintains a small storefront called Acquired Rari- and to the locker, while failure results
ties in the same district as Vincen about 4 kilomtres away. He lacks the secure of- in the guards spotting whoever failed
fice and doesn’t have a legion of servitor robots, but he does employ twelve burly the challenge.
Aroosian thugs that staff his store and do his dirty work. Unlike Vincen, Pilaro walks
Assault the Building
the floor of his business and tries to charm anyone who comes in the door. If he feels
This should be a last resort, but some
threatened, he sics his goons on the threat and tries to get to his lift car and escape as
characters may prefer to go in guns
quickly as he can. He engages in some illegal transactions, so he tries to keep colonial a-blazing. Security staff is limited and
security out of his dealings if he can and will be reluctant to call them if trouble arises. there will be a delay in response time
Depending on their abilities and approach, the characters have several options to for some of them since they will be
deal with Pilaro and a few suggestions are listed below. spread out through the building. The
security guards are not paid enough to
Disgrace Pilaro: There is no worse shame in Rajolan culture than to have a business motivate them to lay down their lives,
with a bad reputation, and if people believe Pilaro is not trustworthy or fair they will but unless the characters take steps to ...

THE BROKER 105

.. . cut off the building’s communications
stay away and his business will vanish. This could involve a campaign of negative
(including personal wristcomps worn
reviews, turning loyal customers against him, or find a way to reveal evidence of his
by the guards) and muffle the sound
illegal transactions to the Merchants Guild. If the characters are working behind the
of the battle, this option will get messy
very quickly. A call out to colonial secu- scenes to discredit him, it should be handled as an extended conflict against a pool of
rity about an attack by armed intruders 15 and a skill of 70% (see sidebar).
will bring at least 10 security robots to
Success indicating that Pilaro’s business begins suffering from their efforts, while fail-
the scene within five minutes and more
will keep coming until the intruders are
ure has no appreciable effect or actually improves Pilaro’s business. Vincen knows
subdued, escape, or are killed. business well enough to see the long-term effects and will maintain the smear cam-
paign to eventually destroy his rival.

Extended Conflict: Disgrace Pilaro Frame Pilaro: If it was revealed Pilaro was making illegal purchases and he was
Skills: Deceit or Influence, augmented caught in the act, the Merchants Guild would investigate and it would ruin him. Pilaro
by Computers (for online efforts) and operates with a tight margin on his expenses, and at times he barely scrapes by. That
Research (to find other trends that turn is why he uses his thugs to acquire goods through less than legal methods, so the
customers away)
sales are pure profit. Uncovering evidence of illegal actions is an extended conflict
Conflict Pool: INT+CHA/2 and Pilaro resists with a pool of 14 and uses his Streetwise of 65%, representing his
Round Length: 6 hours skill at covering his tracks. The active characters use the stats in the sidebar.

Opposing Force: 70%, Pool 15 If the characters are successful, the Merchants Guild temporarily revokes Pilaro’s busi-
ness license on Barterdome until they investigate and the Seller leaves the colony to
go into hiding. Failure either results in the characters alerting Pilaro to their efforts,
or the active character getting caught doing something and Pilaro and his men will
respond accordingly if they are present.

Threaten Pilaro: While he is all charm when trying to make a sale, Pilaro is a coward
and without protection he will not stick around. Pilaro rarely leaves his store and re-
sides in a small apartment on the third floor. His thugs are almost always close by, but
at times some of them are off on jobs or head out for personal business. At night he
keeps only four of his men around to guard the store, and Pilaro has a security system
activated on both the storefront and his apartment. If the characters take a day (20
hours) to observe the store, they can learn the times when Pilaro is most vulnerable.
Accessing his apartment requires an Electronics roll against the security system’s rat-
ing of 65% to disable his alarm, and a successful Lockpicking or Brawn roll to gain
entry. If confronted when there are no thugs present, Pilaro will try to bribe or bargain

106 THE BROKER

 Extended Conflict: Frame Pilaro
with the characters while looking for a way to alert his men or escape. Pilaro does not
have much cash on hand so his maximum bribe is 5000 trade units but he can also Skills: Streetwise, augmented by Com-
puters (to hack into Pilaro’s records),
provide them goods worth another 3000 if sold. Influence and Brawn checks to inti-
Lockpicking (to physically break into
mate or threaten him are opposed by his Willpower of 45%, and the difficulty is Easy
his office), and Stealth (to gain access
if he is alone. If confronted with his men present, he will order them to attack while to his office or shadow his goons and
he escapes. If Pilaro truly believes his life or livelihood is in danger, he will hop on the get evidence of their activities)
first transport off Barterdome and try to start again elsewhere.
Conflict Pool: INT+CHA/2 for gathering
Kill Pilaro: While not the most noble way of handling the situation, sometimes the information, or DEX+INT/2 for breaking
in
best way to eliminate a rival is to eliminate a rival. As mentioned above there are
times when Pilaro doesn’t have his men around and is more vulnerable, or aggressive Round Length: 6 hours’
characters could simply storm the store in broad daylight and let their weapons do Opposing Force: 65%, Pool 14
the talking. Just like attempts to threaten him, Pilaro will attempt to bargain for his life
if given the chance, and if he has no other recourse, he will try to escape by whatever
means are available. If he does get away, he will get off colony as soon as he is able
and never returns. If the characters do go in guns a-blazing, Pilaro and his men will
not call colonial security, but customers or neighbors will if they hear weapons fire.
There is also the clean-up factor if the characters want to avoid becoming subjects of
a criminal investigation. Keep in mind that Elevation does not tolerate staff members
with murderous inclinations, and if Director Earther finds out the characters will be
called in immediately.

No matter how they accomplish it, if Pilaro is removed from the equation Vincen will
be pleased and reward them as detailed above. If he survived, Pilaro has a long mem-
ory and when he recovers he may seek revenge on the characters if he was aware of
their involvement.

Small Jobs
The work that Vincen offers carries a lot of risk for the characters, and the illegality of
it might go against some of their moral codes. While Vincen would prefer them to do
his dirty work, ultimately he is more concerned about getting paid for the stabilization
field coil and doesn’t really care where the trade units come from, so the characters
can look into alternate employment to earn the money they need to get back out into

THE BROKER 107

 space. Any character can make a Customs check or an Easy Computers check to recall
a well-known site on the dataweb called “SmallJobs” that acts as a recruiting board for
short term employment all over the civilized galaxy. The characters can create a profile
on the site and begin looking for work or let it be known that they are available for cer-
tain types of jobs and the need is immediate. If the characters go this route, you can
create whatever sidequest you choose to give them work or use one of the jobs below.

Mundane Work
Although it is not glamorous, the characters always have the option of seeking out
general employment as a way of earning money. They can work as laborers or mechan-
ics at a business or the docks for 350 trade units a day, get jobs as security personnel
for 500 trade units per day, or those with scientific or medical backgrounds can work
at a lab or hospital for 1000 trade units per day. A success on an appropriate skill
check relevant to the type of work doubles the amount earned, while a critical success
triples it. This can be treated as simple downtime activities for the characters, with the
time factor being the main source of tension.

The F ine Ar t of Loan Sharking

If the characters post their availability online, within a day they are contacted by Kella
Orson with a request for help and a contact number.

“Hello, I saw your need for employment and I was hoping you could help with
a problem I am dealing with. It is hard to explain, so please contact me when
you have the chance and I will give you the details. Thank you.”

Her studio is called A New Hue and is found in the cultural section of Barterdome. If
the characters take her up on the offer, she arranges to meet them for lunch at a small
cafe down the block from her studio. She tells them about her business and initial
struggles, and how during a conversation with a customer named Marko Vale he of-
fered to help by investing in her business. The money gave her a chance to expand
her studio and pay for much needed advertising, and now the gallery is thriving, but
Marko came back with some men and informed her he was taking a controlling inter-
est in the studio and she worked for him now. Kella never signed a contract with him
and she realized too late that Marko was actually a loan shark and very dangerous.

108 THE BROKER

 Complicating Factor
She wants the characters to help her to get out from under Marko’s threats and claim
on her studio. Kella doesn’t know exactly where he is, but heard him talk about spend- As a regular in the Night Shyft, Marko
has many friends there and if confront-
ing time at a local bar called the Night Shyft. She also knows he and his men are
ed in the bar the characters might have
armed because he showed her the pistol under his jacket. She threatened to go to
to deal with far more than Marko and
colonial security, but Marko told her he would pay them off and come back and teach his six goons. As an alternative if the
her a lesson if she did. Kella offers them 10000 trade units and one of her original characters are losing a fight, Marko
works valued at 4000 trade units if they are able to help her. has ticked off enough people in the bar
that the characters may find some un-
If the characters ask around and make a successful Streetwise check, they learn that
expected allies.
Marko has been shaking down a lot of local businesses, and again they are directed
to the bar. If they go to the Night Shyft, Marko isn’t there and the staff is reluctant to
reveal any details about him. With a successful Deceit or Influence check (Easy dif-
ficulty if a bribe of at least 50 trade units is included), one of the wait staff tells the
characters that Marko and his crew should be in again in the next two days and they
usually stay until closing.

Marko is a typical wannabe criminal, dressed in an expensive looking cheap suit with
gold rings on all his fingers. His six thugs share his fashion sense and have more
muscle than brains. They come into the bar around 10PM and if left alone they do a
lot of drinking, talk way too loudly, intimidate anyone who looks at them cross-eyed,
and hit on any unfortunate female who walks past. If approached, Marko and his men
immediately go on the defensive and try to intimidate the characters if they mention
anything about Kella. Marko has no problem picking a fight if he feels threatened,
although he requests they take things outside because it’s his favorite club. Any non-
violent attempt to dissuade him from harassing Kella will either end in him and his
men laughing it off or becoming aggressive towards the characters.

If the characters want to avoid a fight, they will need to figure some way to either trick
Marko into leaving her alone, find a way to scare him off, or find a way to get him and
his men arrested. If it does come down to a fight and Marko is left alive and free, he
will slink off but will plot his revenge against the characters and Kella.

Gerbil Cage
If the characters make their need for work known on any job site or other public forum,
within five hours they are contacted by an anonymous individual on their private com-
munications channel and get the following message:

THE BROKER 109

Appeal to Orrius’ Ego
“I understand you are in need of employment. I have need for able-bodied
Orrius is vain, but he is also an es- individuals for an important task and I am willing to pay well for your time. If
teemed historian and places great
you are interested, please reply in the affirmative to this message and I will let
value on the history of his people.
you know where to meet me.”
While he will not sell the books, clever
characters may attempt to use his ego If they agree, a destination is automatically loaded into the navigation system of their
against him and convince him that al- wristcomps. It leads to a large windowless warehouse on the edge of the space docks
lowing the knowledge to be shared by
with only a single door leading in. If the characters approach the door, a small scan-
all will further his standing within the
ner emerges from above it and a wide red beam washes over them before the device
academic community of his people. If
they can convince him, possibly as an retracts and the door opens into a long hallway. When they reach the door at the end,
extended social conflict against his INT several concealed storage containers emerge from the walls and a dull, monotone
pool of 15, he agrees to allow the books voice says, “Please place all weapons and electronic devices in the boxes. They will
to be scanned by Gerbil as long as he be returned to you when you leave.” If the characters refuse or attempt to conceal any
can be present to ensure their safety.
items, several large gatling lasers emerge from the walls around them and the voice
Steal the Books says, “Final warning. Place them in the boxes or leave.” If they become hostile, the
While not noble, stealing the books eight gatling lasers (2d6 damage) begin firing at them with a skill of 80% until they
from Orrius may be the only option surrender or flee back the way they came.
available to the characters. He keeps
them in his private library in his office, If they comply, the boxes slide back into the walls and the door opens with a hiss
inside a locked cabinet. His office door into a vast chamber. All around the room there are strange tubes of computer plastic
is locked with a simple passkey (nor- running in all directions, connected like a giant intricate maze. Holographic images
mal difficulty to pick) and the cabinet is and data feeds are displayed from nearly every surface inside the tubes, creating light
not locked. There are security cameras
within the chamber. Just then Gerbil lands with a thud on the plastic above them and
in the hallway outside of Orrius’ office,
introduces himself in the same monotone voice they heard previously. He is able to
and if the characters had approached
him prior to the theft he will finger identify all the characters by name, but only seems to know information about them
them immediately after the theft. ... that could be gathered from electronic or dataweb records. He also freely shares how
his condition keeps him trapped within the tubes, and how the dataweb is his true
home and information his mistress.

Gerbil presents as awkward and emotionless, his gaze more focused on the countless
displays instead of the characters as he talks. He delivers his request and answers any
questions they have in brief, matter-of-fact responses. While he is talking he spouts
random factoids that have no relation to the topic at hand. Some examples are:

110 THE BROKER

 ... Go Above Orrius’ Head
»» Neutron stars can spin 600 times a second.
While Orrius is a respected professor,
»» The planet Aarquen has three hundred fifty-seven types of root vegeta- he is not the sole authority on cam-
bles. pus. The dean of the history depart-
ment, a portly Rajolan named Tervuss,
»» Terra’s last Secretary General had a third nipple.
is far more pleasant and agreeable than
»» K’Taar mating rituals involve elaborate written contracts. his faculty. While he respects Orrius’s
dedication, Tervuss is in the business
»» Rajolans have ninety-three different words for transaction. of improving his status at the univer-
sity. If approached by the characters,
Gerbil asks the characters if they will help him obtain some information that he can’t he insinuates that a suitable donation
access on his massive computer system. He tells them about a local Rajolan historian to the construction of a new library
named Orrius who has a rare collection of texts that detail important aspects of Ra- would motivate him to order Orrius to
jolan history prior to the species venturing out into space. Gerbil believes it should allow access to the texts. He is looking
for 500000 trade units, but the char-
be free and public knowledge, but Orrius refuses to allow the texts to be released or
acters can negotiate him down from
scanned and digitized. Gerbil hopes the characters can either convince Orrius or find
that amount with a successful opposed
a way to persuade him to sell Gerbil the texts so he can pass on the knowledge. Gerbil Commerce or Influence check against
has no real concept of money since his information business is extremely lucrative, so his skill of 75%.
he gives the characters special money cards worth 100000 trade units to pay Orrius,
and if needed he will increase the amount to 500000. He offers to pay the characters
30000 trade units if they can acquire the books.

Orrius works at the Xandrius Institute of Higher Learning in the cultural section of
Barterdome, and when he is not lecturing he can be found in his office there. If the
characters don’t make an appointment, he refuses to meet with them until they do
and can’t fit them in for another two days. They can attempt to speed up the process
with a Bureaucracy or Deceit check to trick his receptionist into giving them an ear-
lier time. Orrius is a know-it-all and has a massive ego, and he believes the texts are
too valuable to sell and no one else is qualified to handle them. He is very alert and
clever (Insight and Perception of 85%), so it’s difficult to convince or manipulate him.
Attempts to threaten or intimidate him cause Orrius to alert campus and colonial se-
curity if he feels he can do so safely. There are a few things the characters can try to
attempt to get the books from him – see the sidebars for various tactics.

If the characters are able to get Gerbil access to the texts (without breaking too many
laws), he is very grateful and doesn’t seem too concerned with how much it cost them

THE BROKER 111

Time Keeps on Ticking
to do so. As long as they treat him well and don’t make too much of a mess during the
An important thing to keep track of in job, Gerbil can serve as a contact for the characters to provide information and work.
this adventure is the amount of time it
takes the characters to acquire the part Complicating Factor: It turns out Gerbil is not the only one interested in the books. A
they need once they complete the appli- rival historian hired a group of four criminals to steal the texts from Orrius and deliver
cation with the APRC. Every single day them to him. The characters may become aware of the plot when they see the men
of the thirty days they have to survey the
lurking around Orrius’ office, or they may arrive just after the men stole the books and
planet is important, and not completing
have to give chase to get them back.
the process opens up the unknown sys-
tem to claims by other organizations or
individuals. While you should not track
every single second, it might be a good
Spare Parts
idea to remind the players they need
to hurry if they are taking their time
No matter how they come by the money or how long it takes, whenever the characters
with side quests or other activities on are able to afford the stabilizer they can head back to Vincen to complete the transac-
Barterdome. If there are other rivals tion. If they accomplished all his tasks and weren’t arrested, or after they pay at one
attempting to jump the claim, this can of the holographic kiosks in his store, he has the part ready for them.
put added pressure on them to get off
colony as soon as possible. If they saw the men who sabotaged their ship, upon their return to Vincen’s shop have
the characters make a Perception roll. If successful, they notice the black lift car with
the dent and inside see two human males leave Vincen’s office. One of them is wear-
ing a wristcomp with a distinctive red design. If the characters approach the men, the
pair sees them and immediately makes a run for it. If they are still in the shop, the men
use the customers as cover until they get out the door to their car. This is handled as
an extended conflict against their pool of 14 and skill of 75%, and active characters
Extended Conflict: Escape each make the following checks against the men – see sidebar for stats.
Skills: Athletics (for a foot chase) or If the men succeed, they manage to give the characters the slip. If the characters
Drive (for a vehicle chase), augment-
succeed, they are able to catch the men and block them from escaping. If they are
ed by Acrobatics (for parkour!) and
cornered, the two criminals draw pistols to attack.
Endurance (to stave off fatigue) in a
foot chase, or Navigation (to know the If at least one of them survives the encounter, the men can be interrogated with an
streets) and Perception (to keep track
opposed Brawn or Influence check against their Willpower of 60%. They are named
of the men) in a vehicle chase
Butch and Lukka and work as saboteurs and thieves for Vincen, helping him acquire
Conflict Pool: CON+DEX/2 for a foot things he needs and ensure that someone needs what he has. Since most spaceships
chase, DEX+INT/2 for a vehicle chase
require unique parts, Vincen keeps a close eye on traffic at the docks and he saw the
Round Length: 1 round Starseeker as a good opportunity to unload the stabilization coil he had in storage.

112 THE BROKER

 Get Vincen
The men won’t turn on Vincen if handed to the authorities and if let go they leave the
colony, telling the characters to “just leave Vincen alone. He’s too powerful and you’d Some players may not be comfortable
with the idea of Vincen extorting money
be stupid to cross him.”
from them and getting away with it. He
If the characters try to confront Vincen about the sabotage, he simply smiles a little is well-established on Barterdome, and
smile from his secure office and says, “Just business, friends. Just business.” He offers knows the legal system and the work-
ings of the Merchants Guild well enough
no apologies and no reduction in price, and if threatened with his illegal actions he
to know who to bribe and how to get out
simply laughs and walks away. He still offers to sell them the part as long as they don’t
of most legal issues. Price gouging is
threaten him or his business, and if they become aggressive, he summons his robots
not an illegal practice in the Guild’s
as detailed above and has them ejected from the premises. If they agree to the sale, laws, even if some Rajolans consider
he keeps his word and provides the part as promised at the price he quoted. The coil it distasteful. Vincen is also careful to
is brought out by some of his robots and is in perfect condition. not implicate himself in any thefts he
has others commit, pitting their word
against his. The biggest crime in the
Guild’s eyes would be trying to elimi-
nate Pilaro, but he also leaves it up to
the characters to decide how the task is
accomplished. Ultimately he would get
a slap on the wrist at best for his un-
derhanded tactics, something Vincen is
Conclusion
If the coil is purchased and installed with a successful Easy Mechanics check, the Star-
seeker is ready to fly again and the characters can head out to the unknown system
to conduct the next stage of their survey. If they contact Elevation, Director Earther
is glad they are on their way and asks them to report in as soon as they reach the
system and to give her updates as often as they can. She also tells them to stay safe
since they are stepping into the unknown. It’s also important to note approximately
how much time it took for the characters to purchase the part as it affects the next
scenario.

If for some reason the characters are delayed until after the initial exploration claim
expires, they will need to rush back to the APRC office and start over as soon as pos-
sible. Depending on the outcome of the previous adventure, they may have to deal
with other potential claimants who are there to stake their own petition for first rights
to explore DRL-3491.

THE BROKER 113

 4

TO LANDING PORT

6
5

114 THE BROKER

7

Map of Bar terdome District

1. Vincen’s Brokerage

2. Admant Holding Company

3. Aquired Rarities

4. A New Hue
3
5. Night Shyft

6. Gerbil’s Warehouse

7. Xandrius Institute Of Higher Learning

THE BROKER 115

 SCENARIO 3:
Brave New World

“Awful nice of you to find this planet for us. I must say it’s the most kindness I’ve seen
from someone in a long time. I’ll be sure to let my bosses know how you did us such
a wonderful service. And maybe if I am feeling in good spirits, I’ll even let them know
where we buried you.”

Locations: Unknown System DRL-3491 (Planet Gluburu)

Synopsis
Once their claim is sorted out and the ship is repaired, the player characters race to
the uncharted system to begin the process of gathering data. The Ranger class drone
did most of the initial mapping of the planetary bodies, and its data indicated the
third planet from the sun has all the hallmarks of being able to support life. This is an
exciting discovery, and as per Elevation protocols the characters rush there to do a
deeper analysis to see what lifeforms, if any, might exist there.

Unfortunately at some point during their journey there the characters’ ship was tagged
with a tracking device by CypherCorp agents who became aware of their mission. An
Acquisitions Team has been dispatched to pursue them, and although their launch
was delayed, the team is not far behind the characters and arrives a few days later.
Their mission is to observe the characters before terminating them and acquiring
whatever data they’ve collected so their corporate masters can use it to hijack the
claim once the initial time frame of the Elevation registration expires.

During their exploration, the characters learn that the planet is home to an indigenous
intelligent species known as the Squin. Through observation the characters learn they
are sufficiently advanced to be approached for entry into the galactic community,

116 BRAVE NEW WORLD

although the Squin seem to have unique ideas about personal property that might
make things difficult for the characters if they make contact with them. The player
characters must find the best way to make peaceful contact with the Squin, avoid
some dangerous natural flora and fauna on the planet, and try not to be killed by the
CypherCorp team before they are able to file the final claim on the discovery of a new
sentient species.

Main NPCs
The Esteemed High Eminence Bluubo
A male Squin bureaucrat, Bluubo believes that he is the most important being in his
little microcosm and tries to ensure that everyone around him knows it at all times.
He is constantly trying to stay in the limelight, make speeches, kiss little grublings if
there is an audience, and is quick to lay the blame on someone else if something goes
wrong. When it comes to meeting new lifeforms, Bluubo sees which way the wind is
blowing with his people before he decides to be friendly to alien visitors and tries to
ensure whatever he decides benefits him most of all.

Sub-Esteemed Low Eminence Quuaal

A female Squin bureaucrat and the power behind the throne, Quuaal is far more intel-
ligent and capable than Bluubo but lacks her superior’s confidence and charm. She
manages the day-to day operations of Issuu and the surrounding provinces, doing all
the hard work so Bluubo can take all the credit. While soft-spoken, she is a far more
capable diplomat and always has the interests of the Squin in mind with whatever
decisions she makes.

Paab
A simple Squin laborer and farmer who lives on the outskirts of Issuu, Paab was os-
tracized by his people long ago for his outlandish claims about strange beings who
live out in the stars. Paab witnessed the Elevation survey drone during one of its low
orbit scanning runs of the planet, but most of his fellow Squin chalk up his ravings
to mental illness or a bit too much of the local spiced spirits. Paab now diligently
watches the skies for more signs of life from out in the stars, hopeful that he’ll find
some real evidence.

BRAVE NEW WORLD 117

Wasted Time Acquisitions Commander 643
If it took the characters a while to get It takes a special breed of sociopath to advance in the brutal ranks of CypherCorp’s
off of Barterdome, there are some
Acquisition teams, and 643 is a prime example of what it takes to succeed. A male En-
changes to the existing scenario to
Gee officer, 643 has served CypherCorp for over a decade and is considered one of the
reflect the actions of the antagonists
while the characters were delayed. best Acquisitions commanders in the field. After following a tracking beacon slipped
on an Elevation Starseeker, he plans to allow the ship’s crew to do all the heavy lifting
Less than ten days: All the encounters
and data gathering before 643 and his men kill them and claim the planet once the
occur as detailed below with no chang-
es. Elevation survey application expires.

Between ten and fifteen days: The Ac-

quisitions team is already on-planet
when they arrive and has set up a hid-
den observation base outside of Issuu
(marked on the map). They already have
intelligence gathered on the Squin and
have a small surveillance satellite in
orbit fitted with stealth systems (Hard
Sensors to detect), so they will be alert-
ed to the characters’ arrival. Unless the
satellite is disabled, the Acquisitions
agents will know the exact location of
the characters’ landing site.

Greater than fifteen days: In addition to

the base and satellite detailed above,
643 will have radioed back to Cypher-
Corp to inform them of the presence of
a sentient lifeform. Within two days of
the characters arriving in system, two
more Acquisition teams will arrive with
ships and crew compliment equal to
that of the original team. CypherCorp
orders them to eliminate any Elevation
personnel immediately and take pos-
session of the site until a formal claim
on the planet can be made. ...

118 BRAVE NEW WORLD

 ...
Arrival in DRL-3491: Mission Briefing The amount of time spent on Barterdo-
me also limits the total time they have
to survey the planet and proceed to the
A successful Astrogation check is needed to rift jump to the unknown system, with
next step in the APRC process, and fur-
failure resulting in the ship coming out too early. If this happens they must spend two
ther delays run risk of the initial claim
days flying to their original destination point or use up more Nebulium on another expiring and another group swooping in
jump (and make another Astrogation check). Upon arrival the ship deploys a small to take over survey rights to the sys-
transmission hub beacon that aids with limited deep space communication. Accord- tem. A reduced time-frame may alter
ing to standard protocol, the characters need to establish a connection to Elevation some of the encounters below, so be

headquarters, which requires a successful Comms check. Once established, a grainy, sure to remind the players of how much
time they have left at the beginning of
garbled Director Earther appears on their main screen.
the scenario.
The image is flickering and filled with static, but during the moments it stabilizes you
can see the excitement on Director Earther’s face. Her voice sounds distorted before
the comm is able to adjust for the weak signal.

“I can’t believe... finally found a system like... This may be our chance to
achieve... grandfather’s dream. You need to head towards... third planet to
start gathering data... observing the flora and... If there are any signs of intell...
life contact... immediately. Good luck and God spe...”

With a final crackle the transmission cuts out. Across the room a panel opens on the
wall, and behind it there is a slim book bound in clear plastic. The cover reads “Eleva-
tion Protocols for Planetary Exploration.” It is obvious the book has never been read,
and from what you know of Elevation’s history your mission is the first of its kind.

A successful Astrogation check charts a course for the third planet, and from the point
the ship jumped in it will take twelve hours to reach orbit. A character that takes time
to read the manual learns the following:

»» If a planetary body appears to have liquid water and an atmosphere, the

crew is to spend at least a full day using the Starseeker’s sensors to gather
information on the make-up of the atmosphere, any potentially toxic sub-
stances, and traces of pollutants that might indicate the presence of an
industrialized society.

»» During that same time, the crew also needs to use the Starseeker’s tele- Opposite: The Esteemed High Eminence
scopic lens to observe the surface in a grid pattern and take still pictures Bluubo

BRAVE NEW WORLD 119

 and video of what they see. They are to try to get images of different flora,
surface types, and bodies of water. If any settlements are located, the
crew is to get as many images as possible and report back to headquar-
ters immediately for further instructions. Headquarters will make contact
with the APRC and inform the crew how to proceed once they get a ruling
from them.

»» If approval for an extension is granted, the crew is to look for an isolated

location on the surface where they will minimize any detrimental effects of
their landing to the local biosphere. Once they touchdown, the crew may
exit the ship in full environmental suits to take further readings to ensure
there are no toxins, pathogens, or radiation that could be detrimental to
their safety. Crew are not to remove their environmental suits until scans
are completed for at least three full standard rotations of the planet and
the atmosphere is judged to be safe.

»» During the time spent on the surface the crew should gather examples of
local flora and take images and non-invasive scans of local fauna to aid
in cataloging the lifeforms native to the planet. Crew members should be
careful not to cause undue harm to any lifeform unless they are at risk
from an aggressive or dangerous bioform. If there are any signs of intelli-
gent life, the crew is to take measures to remain hidden and isolated from
the lifeform and report back to Elevation to determine the next course
of action and if further contact with the APRC needs to be made. If there
would be risk of discovery, the crew is to lift off immediately and either
move to low orbit or find another suitable landing point at least fifty kilo-
metres from any settlements to continue analysis and study of the planet.

»» The crew is to be mindful of the time-frame of their APRC survey period

and should allow themselves at least three full galactic median days to
send the pertinent data back to the local APRC office, or five galactic me-
dian days if they will need to submit the data in person. Also be mindful
of the life cycle of the transmission hub beacon to ensure that communi-
cations will still be available in case there is an emergency or a situation
arises that needs reported back to central headquarters.

120 BRAVE NEW WORLD

When they reach orbit, it is immediately apparent the third planet has both liquid wa- Planet Gluburu (DRL-3491)
ter and an atmosphere that appears similar to that of Terra. Several landmasses can Planet: Medium. 1 small moon. Third

also be seen from orbit and the green color visible suggests plant life of some kind. As planet from the star.

per the above protocols, the characters need to take photographs of it all. If they also Star System: Yellow star, 8 planets, 2
take time to analyze the planet with a successful Sensors check, they pick up images large gas giants.

of several large walled settlements near the northern coastal region of the largest Tech Level: 3
landmass, all clustered within 50 to 100 kilometres of each other. If they report back
Law Level: 6
to headquarters, within two hours they get a text message back: We notified the APRC
Atmosphere: Earth-like
and sent your images. You have thirty days to gather information planet side. Proceed
to the planet surface immediately. Gather as much information on the settlements as Starport: None

you can without making your presence known. Report back with your findings ASAP. Population Density: Medium in urban
areas, low to very low in other areas
If they take time to search and make a successful Sensors check, the characters can
also find the Ranger-class survey drone that did the initial analysis of the system. As Foreign Policy: The Council of Leader-
ship is loose in its policy making, but
per current Elevation protocols, they are to attempt to bring it back so it can be re-
emphasizes cooperation among the
paired and cycled back into use.
Squin settlements it rules over and
protection of the people from outside
dangers.
Gluburu
Special Features: None

The homeworld of the Squin is a class I habitable world, the third in the system desig-
nated DRL-3491. Approximately 79% of the planetary surface is liquid water, with polar
caps made up of seas full of ice. The landmasses rest near the equatorial region and
are comprised of island chains surrounding two small continents. The surface regions
are primarily made up of mountains, dense tropical jungles, and vast swamps out
towards the oceans. Gluburu has no spaceports but does have grasslands and plains
that could serve as a class F landing area in an emergency. The largest settlement is
the walled city of Issuu at the edge of the great swamps located at the northern end of
the larger continent. There are other smaller settlements spread out over the two con-
tinents and on the island chains, but the most organized and civilized surround Issuu.

BRAVE NEW WORLD 121

 Issuu

122 BRAVE NEW WORLD

 Polar/Glacial

Mountain

Boreal Forest

Temperate Forest

Tropical Forest mixed with swamps

Temperatures

GLUBURU

BRAVE NEW WORLD 123

Landing Undetected
Welcome to the Jungle
Formidable: A direct approach close
to the settlements during broad day- The characters need to determine the best way to land without alerting the native
light or at night where the glow of the
species to their presence, and they need to find a landing site that will both accom-
ship’s engines would be visible. Picking
modate their Starseeker and be hidden from detection. The easiest way to handle this
a landing site less than 10 kilometres
is to have them make a Piloting check with a difficulty based on what measures they
from a settlement, or a landing site
near roads or outlying farms. take to conceal their descent and presence. In the sidebar are a few examples to de-
termine the difficulty of the check based on some tactics they could use.
Hard: An approach during the day
within 20 kilometres of a settlement If they fail the check, at least some Squin from near-by settlements notice their ship
using minimal cover, such as clouds or and send out a scouting party of eight Squin laborers armed with crude rifles (as per
mountains, or solely relying on dark-
a standard rifle, but damage is 1d8 and there is no autofire option) to investigate in
ness at the same distance. Picking a
the direction the characters were spotted. If they critically fail the check, not only
landing site between 10 and 20 kilome-
tres of a settlement. are they noticed but something happens during the descent that causes the ship to
be damaged such as a crash landing or a malfunction of a vital ship system. Even if
Standard: An approach during the day
they succeed, the Squin farmer Paab catches sight of them at some point during the
keeping close to the ocean and tree
lines more than 20 kilometres from descent using a telescope he watches the skies with.
any settlement, roadway, or water traf-
Once they are down, if the characters follow standard protocol the next step is to
fic, or a low approach at night at the
gather samples of local plant life and images of local animals, all while testing the
same distance. Picking a landing site
atmosphere in their environment suits. While the atmosphere of Gluburu is perfectly
between 20 and 40 kilometres from any
known settlement or road. safe, the characters are to keep on their environment suits for three full days before
venturing out without safety gear. This gives them ample time to collect the data they
Easy: The same as per Standard, but
taking a few days to wait for optimal
need, and the northern part of the continent is comprised primarily of dense jungles
weather conditions to better conceal and marshes that have their own challenges.
their approach, such as a storm or fog.
The most immediate challenge is at the landing site itself. Unless the characters took
Taking time to ensure the sun or moon
time to run a Sensors check on the terrain, their Starseeker might land on spongy wet
would be behind the ship from any
settlement as they approach. Picking soil (40% chance) that will cause the ship to sink two metres down upon landing.
a landing site more than 40 kilometres While the characters can still exit, it will make any Piloting check to take off Hard dif-
distant from any settlement. ficulty unless time is taken to dig the ship out. Also there are thick, fast-growing vines
that seek out warmth and each day they will grow one metre around the ship in dense
clusters. They can easily be hacked or burned off at a rate of three metres per ten
minutes of work by each character, but left unchecked they will grow into any hatch,
vent, or other access point and clog up vital systems.

124 BRAVE NEW WORLD

Characters out exploring need to navigate the thick undergrowth and damp soil that
halves movement speeds in the jungles and marshes. Rain is frequent, ranging from
a steady drizzle to torrential downpours that severely limit visibility. Gluburu is teem-
ing with life, some of it mundane and some of it quite dangerous, and that is why the
Squin build their communities behind the security of walls. There are hidden dangers
and deadly predators that could pose a threat to characters out in the wilderness. For
every hour away from the ship, there is a 20% chance of the characters encountering
one of these perils. If they do, roll a d6 to determine what they stumble on.

01. Mud Trap: A three to five metre-wide pool of loose, sticky mud that acts
like quicksand. The character(s) in the lead must make a Perception or Survival
check to notice it, and failure results in the character(s) falling in and sinking
1d3 metres. Any character that goes under begins drowning, and anyone stuck
must make a Brawn check every round. Success allows characters to pull them-
selves one metre up or towards the edge, and anyone who reaches the edge
can escape. Failure means the character remains at the same point in the mud,
and a critical failure causes the character to sink another metre lower. Anyone
outside the pool can attempt to aid victims stuck in the mud by making Brawn
checks as long as they can reach them. A critical failure on the check causes
the assisting character to fall in.

02. Carnivorous Plant: A dangerous local plant appears to be a two metre-

wide patch of normal vegetation on the ground. Unless a successful Hard Per-
ception or Survival check is made, one of the characters steps on the plant and
it immediately snaps up to envelops him or her. The plant has a tight grip (op-
posed Athletics or Brawn against the plant’s skill of 75% to escape), secretes
powerful acid to digest prey (1 point of damage to all uncovered locations
per round trapped, or permanently reduces armor by the same amount), and
any attempt to damage it by allies also hurts the trapped character (the plant
has 20 hit points and damage to it is split between the plant and whoever is
trapped inside). Characters outside can make the same opposed Brawn check
to free the trapped character.

03. Deadly Predators: A small pack (1d6+1) of a local vicious beasts known as
pyokes. They are treated as alien beasts, and they try to quietly stalk their prey

BRAVE NEW WORLD 125

If the characters encounter the same
with Stealth skill of 65% and strike anyone they are able to catch off guard. If
danger again, any difficulty to detect
more than half of the pack is killed, they will try to flee back into the jungle.
it is reduced by one step. The Games
Master can also add in any additional 04. Spore Pod: A patch of fungi that releases toxic spores when disturbed
encounters or creatures of their own unless a successful Hard Perception or Survival check is made to notice them.
design, using the Alien Creation sec-
The spores spread quickly in a radius of five metres around the fungi, and
tion of the core book to populate Glu-
all characters in the area must make an opposed Endurance check against
buru with all sorts of strange lifeforms.
the toxin’s potency of 70% or suffer 1d3 damage and two levels of fatigue. It
takes the spores 1d6+1 rounds to disperse, and anyone still in the cloud must
continue to make checks each round. Anyone wearing a full environment suit
is safe from the spores, but unless the suit is thoroughly cleaned before it is
removed the wearer is subject to the check when they take the suit off.

05. Tangling Vines: A native species of vine that hangs from trees and en-
snare anything that passes underneath or comes into contact with them. A
successful Perception or Survival check spots the vines and the presence of
bugs and small animal carcasses on their surface. Failure to notice them re-
sults in 1d3 random locations getting trapped in the vines. The surface of the
plants is covered with sticky sap that makes it difficult to pull free (successful
Brawn check) or they can be cut or burned by inflicting 5 points of damage to
each entrapping vine. If a vine traps the character’s head he or she is subject
to asphyxiation until freed.

06. Apex Predator: A massive creature known as gurzur stomps out of the
jungle in search of food. It is treated as an alien beast, but it has a STR:25,
CON:20, SIZ:30, HP:25, and it attacks with a bite that does 3d6 damage. The
beast has poor eyesight but well-developed senses of smell and hearing, so
characters attempting to hide from must mask their scent and be quiet or
have the difficulty of their Stealth check increased by one grade. It is vicious
and dumb enough to fight to the death, but extremely loud noises or pungent
odors can be used to drive it off due to its potent senses.

Once the characters complete their initial scouting and data collection (as determined
Opposite: Pyoke pack by the Games Master), they are to make contact with Elevation headquarters. It takes

126 BRAVE NEW WORLD

 Interrupted Signal
If the characters become aware of
someone listening to their transmis-
sion to the APRC, they may venture out
to see if they can find the culprit. How
this plays out is up to the Games Mas-
ter to determine, since it could alter
some of the events below.

The easiest solution is to have the

CypherCorp ship be long gone by the
time they arrive, and a Sensors check
reveals the telltale radiation signature
of another spacecraft that was previ-
ously there. But since CypherCorp is
under order to eliminate the charac-
twelve hours for a reply, and it is a simple text message that reads: “Proceed with ters, Commander 643 may decide to
lay in wait and try blow the Starseeker
contact to APRC immediately to request additional time to study native lifeform. Con-
to atoms. If your players prefer starship
tact when you have confirmation from them. Good luck.” Sending out the message
combat, feel free to play this encounter
to the APRC office on Barterdome requires the ship to be in orbit so they can better out using the patrol ship statistics later
use the transmission hub beacon to strengthen the signal. Once they begin transmis- in the book.
sion, have the characters make an opposed Comms check against a value of 70%. If
If the characters are able to defeat the
they are successful, the communications operator notices that while the transmission enemy ship, remove all further en-
was successful, something else tapped into the signal while it was being sent. If the counters with the Acquisitions team.
check was a critical success, they can hone in to an area approximately 2 Au away If the CypherCorp ship wins, allow the
from Gluburu, or in orbit if they took longer than ten days to get off Barterdome (see characters a chance to evacuate via es-
cape pods back to the surface where it
above). It takes another two days for the APRC to send a return message to Eleva-
will be even more challenging for them
tion headquarters, and within ten hours the characters get a message from Director
to complete their mission and find a
Earther: “Permission to observe granted. You have ninety days. Determine if they are way off planet.
within the guidelines of the Cultural Conservation Edict, and if so relay what you learn
back for further instructions.” Five hours after that a secure automated drone craft
arrives at the characters’ ship containing a softball-sized silver sphere, the binding
orb used by the APRC as confirmation that the explorers were the ones to make first
contact with a species.

BRAVE NEW WORLD 127

 Zero Tolerance
Unbeknownst to the characters, CypherCorp found a way to the unknown system and
dispatched a team of their own to investigate. If the corporation managed to acquire
the lost survey drone, they head there as soon as they crack it’s encryption. If not,
they managed to tag the character’s ship on either Neo or Barterdome and have been
tracking their movements since that time. Even if the characters take time to search
for tracking devices (with a Hard Sensors check), CypherCorp practices redundancy
and the tracking unit placed a hidden protocol in the Starseeker’s computer that se-
cretly transmits coordinates of any rift jump the ship makes.

The CypherCorp Acquisitions team has orders to secure the claim at all costs if there is
sentient life present, so when Commander 643 learns of the Squin he begins planning
the best way to eliminate the characters so their application expires and the corpora-
tion can swoop in. Unless the characters were delayed for a significant time on Barter-
dome, the Acquisitions team arrives in system two days after the characters and they
remain at a distance of 2 Au from Gluburu using advanced telescopes and sensors to
take readings and make observations. They also monitor all communications from the
planet, so when they tap into the transmission about the presence of the Squin, the
CypherCorp team springs into action.

Commander 643’s Acquisitions team consists of five EnGee soldiers, ten security
agents, three technicians, two scientists, and a bureaucrat specialized in negotiation.
They touch down on the planet’s surface fifty kilometres from the city of Issuu and
sets up a command base outside of their ship. 643 orders two of his EnGee soldiers
to head out on lift bikes to locate the Elevation ship using the tracking beacon and
observe it, or sabotage it if they see an opportunity to do so without being discov-
ered. They are also to attempt to steal the binding orb if it is left unguarded. 643 also
dispatches four data collection service robots to monitor local Squin settlements and
to use linguistics software to learn the basics of their language. While the characters
are out exploring the planet, they might notice the soldiers out in the jungle if they
succeed in an opposed Perception against the soldiers’ Stealth skill of 65%. The sol-
diers will try to escape if they are noticed, taking their lift bikes back to their base.
The characters might also notice other signs of passage by CypherCorp staff out in the

128 BRAVE NEW WORLD

jungle with a Perception check, such as the telltale signs of lift vehicle travel in the
jungles or discarded equipment.

If he feels the characters are getting ready to make contact with the Squin, or if they
are observed interacting with a native (see below), 643 steps up his plan and dis-
patches six security agents to join the EnGee observers and orders them to kill or cap-
ture the characters and secure all their data. The strike team will try to attack at night,
using the darkness and the dense jungle to catch the characters off guard. The two
EnGee soldiers each take three security agents and split up, attacking the ship from
two different directions to flank the characters. The CypherCorp agents are subject
to all the same dangers of the wilderness as the characters, and to add some drama
one of the frequent sudden, torrential rainstorms could strike just as the strike team
launches its attack. This will lower visibility for everyone, cause random tree branches
to drop down from above, and render the ground slick or thick with mud.

If the attack fails, 643 will immediately begin planning another assault with himself
in the lead. He knows that if word gets back that CypherCorp is trying to usurp a valid
exploration claim, the company could lose its rights with the APRC for an extended
period of time. Since the first assault failed, it becomes a priority to kill the characters
before they can make any reports back to either Elevation or the APRC.

643 has his remaining EnGee soldiers watch the Starseeker to find a time when the
characters are away from the ship, and then he heads to the ship with a technician.
643 and his soldiers take out any guards left behind and the technician hacks into the
ship’s security to gain access. Once inside they destroy the communications equip-
ment and transmitter, and the technician accesses the reactor and sets it to overload
Extended Conflict: Reactor Overload
when the ship tries to take off. The assault team then moves to a safe distance from
Skills: Mechanics, augmented by Com-
the Starseeker to wait to see the effects of their sabotage.
puters (to conduct a system analysis
If the characters don’t take time to do a full system check before they try to take off, to find the problems) and Electronics

the reactor begins to overload and they only have a short time to repair it before the (to rewire vital systems to bypass the
sabotage)
ship explodes. This is treated as an extended conflict against a pool of 16 and a skill
of 70%. Active characters use the stats in the sidebar. Conflict Pool: DEX+INT/2

Round Length: 1 minute

If they are successful, thee characters are able to shut down the reactor and can safely
land to make repairs. If they fail, you can allow them an Easy Athletics checks to try to Opposing Force: 70%, Pool 16

BRAVE NEW WORLD 129

 reach one of the escape pods before the ship detonates. If the characters manage to
survive, 643 and his remaining EnGees attack in a final attempt to kill the characters.
He is furious enough to conduct a frontal assault, throwing everything he has left at
the characters. If 643 and his men are defeated, any remaining CypherCorp personnel
take off and head back to Neo to report the mission failure to their leadership.

Close Encounters
Paab has been looking for evidence of alien life for some time, and when he catches
sight of the characters’ ship he sets out to find it. He is clever enough to calculate
their general trajectory based on the ship’s course, and he travels using a native flying
alien beast known as a hyax so he can get a bird’s eye view. On the day the charac-
ters land Paab has a 30% chance of locating them or their ship, and each additional
day this chance rises by a cumulative +10%. Paab is not subtle about his search, so
the characters can spot him flying around with a successful Perception check. If they
are following the protocols of both Elevation and the APRC, they are to avoid contact
with native lifeforms until suitable intelligence is gathered on their level of cultural
and technological development. If they attempt to conceal their presence from him,
the characters will need to make opposed Conceal and Stealth checks against Paab’s
perception of 55%.

If he locates them, Paab lands a kilometre away and makes his way through the jungle
to find a spot to hide and observe the characters’ actions from a distance. While he
knows the jungles well, he is subject to the same perils as the characters while he is
on the ground. Paab is both fascinated and terrified, and if the opportunity presents
itself he will attempt to snatch a loose item of technology or some other item (Sleight
skill of 65% and Stealth 60%) to prove to the other Squin that he is not insane. His
attempt at theft or him stumbling into danger would be a good opportunity for the
characters to meet Paab, and depending on how they react to him, it could lead to
learning them more about the Squin by befriending the alien. Paab is only armed with
a staff and a knife, so if they act hostile, even just to scare him off, he will attempt to
flee from the characters and warn his people.

130 BRAVE NEW WORLD

If the characters decide to try to make contact, or they encounter Paab as detailed
above, Paab will be terrified of the aliens and attempts to flee, or if that isn’t pos-
sible he faints. The characters can attempt any social skill (at Hard difficulty due to
the language barrier) to try to calm the poor Squin, and if successful he remains wary
but lets his curiosity get the better of him. If they do not restrain him, Paab stays at
a cautious distance initially and will try to communicate back to the characters when
they speak with him (in a voice that sounds like a fish trying to speak underwater).
If the characters use the linguistics analysis software available to them, engaging in
conversation with Paab and encouraging him to speak helps speed up the process
so that the program gains 1d3+1% in the Squin language per hour of engagement. If
they have experience rolls to spend, characters can use this time with him to learn
the Squin language or Culture (Squin) from observing Paab’s actions and behavior.

Roleplaying Paab
Paab is the only alien conspiracy theorist on his planet, and his wild ideas have kept
him ostracized by his people for some time now. He is desperately lonely, and even
more desperate to prove that he is not a lunatic. While he is thrilled to confirm that he Above: A flying Hyax – the Squin’s air-
was right all along, he is also terrified by the strange new beings he has found. If ap- borne mounts.

BRAVE NEW WORLD 131

Mobsters in Space!
proached in a gentle and friendly manner, he is willing to learn more about the aliens
If the Vellack Syndicate was able to ac- and is also willing to help them learn about his people. For all his good qualities, Paab
quire the survey drone in the first sce-
also harbors a grudge against the ones who shunned him and he is happy to stick his
nario, by the time the characters arrive
discovery in their faces if given the opportunity and use his status as “diplomat” for
in DRL-3491 the mobsters are already
there trying to figure out what to do to the aliens to gain status and wealth.
lay claim to the system. They have two
Paab shares the cultural kleptomania of all Squin, so he will casually take any loose
ships, one of which has landed on the
object lying around if he can, and put it back just as quickly to take something else.
Squin home world to establish a base
Characters can make an Insight check to determine that Paab isn’t doing this out of
of operations. The other is sitting in or-
bit around the planet, on guard in case greed or maliciousness, and he is just as likely to leave behind something of his own
anyone else tries to land. The mobster without a second thought.
ships are light scout vessels outfitted
Complicating Factor: The Acquisitions team may also catch sight of Paab flying
with whatever weapons they could find,
and if the characters attempt to ap-
around, or he may see their craft before he locates the characters’ ship. The Cypher-
proach the planet the one in orbit will Corp team has no problem capturing the poor alien and torturing whatever informa-
engage and attempt to destroy them. tion they can get out of him. If the characters witness Paab being captured, it could
On the surface the remaining mobsters lead to a daring rescue mission to free the poor Squin at the CypherCorp camp.
have been keeping an eye on the lo-
cals, and if they get word from the or-
bital ship about intruders they will head
into Issuu with weapons out and claim
Thick as Thieves
the planet for their gang. If he is still
Once the characters feel they are ready to approach the Squin, they must decide
alive, Batrus Jinx is in command of the
group of fifteen thugs. If he was killed how they want to make first contact. The communities they noticed from orbit were
or jailed, another criminal named Karl Issuu and its sister cities Quio and Sluuh. Spending time observing the cities reveals
Twoguns is in charge. The gangsters the Squin possess many of the hallmarks of an early industrial era of development,
are not subtle and let their weapons do including steam engines, a simple rail system between the cities, and a few small
the talking since they can’t be bothered
factories. They also see watchtowers along the walls of the cities with guards armed
to learn the Squin language. They at-
with basic muzzle-loader firearms.
tempt to browbeat the poor aliens into
submission and use them as hostages There are some farms outside the city walls, although they also have small fortifica-
if threatened. Saving the Squin from the tions of their own. The largest of them hold no more than a few dozen Squin, includ-
mobsters will go a long way to starting
ing children and the elderly, and the residents are always on edge because they lack
peaceful relations with Elevation on the
the strong protective walls of the cities. No matter how the characters approach the
right foot, but it will also cause some
factions of the natives to mistrust other smaller settlements, they are greeted with panic and the inhabitants either try to hide
alien beings. or flee to reach the safety of their urban kin. If the characters manage to calm the

132 BRAVE NEW WORLD

farmers down (or have Paab along to help), the residents will still direct them to the
larger communities.

First impressions really count when it comes to initial contact, and roaring in on their
Starseeker or trying to cow the natives with a display of advanced tech would not be
the best way of establishing a good rapport with the Squin, making initial checks to
interact with them one grade harder. If the characters have not taken time to learn the
Squin language, or if they don’t have someone like Paab to interpret, interactions are
one grade harder cumulative with any other penalties. Violence or aggression will be
met in kind, and each city has a militia of a thousand guards (treat as laborers with
rifles and simple body armor that provides a rating of 2 to all locations) that will be
called out to defend the city as best they can.

Arriving at the gates on foot or in a lift vehicle will raise alarms, causing the tower
guards to train weapons on the characters, but as long as the characters don’t take
any hostile actions the Squin will be wary but not aggressive. They will call out for
someone of higher rank and within fifteen minutes Sub-Esteemed Low Eminence
Quuaal will arrive and approach the characters with a group of a dozen Squin guards.
While she is as nervous as the other Squin about the presence of aliens, she is better
at maintaining her composure and attempts to start a dialogue with the characters.

The outskirts of a Squin town.

BRAVE NEW WORLD 133

Extended Conflict:
This is handled as an extended conflict against Quuaal’s CHA pool of 14 and skill of
Meeting Sub-Esteemed Low Eminence
75%. Active characters each make the checks against her with the stats in the sidebar.
Quuaal
Skills: Influence, augmented by Deceit Success means Quuaal is willing to allow the characters to accompany her to Issuu as
(for trickery), Courtesy (for proper eti- her guests if they agree to travel with an escort of two guards. She will get in touch
quette), Culture: Squin (to try to predict with Esteemed High Eminence Bluubo to discuss further diplomatic interactions and
the best approaches), and Insight (to
what course they want to take about the aliens among them. Failure results in the
try to read Squin body language and
characters being politely turned away at this time, but Quuaal will still meet with the
non-verbal cues)
government to discuss the possibility of further interaction on the Squin’s terms. If
Conflict Pool: INT+CHA/2
the characters are agreeable, Quuaal will ask them to return within three days and the
Round Length: 10 minutes extended conflict is repeated.
Opposing Force: 75%, CHA Pool 14 If they have encountered Paab and he has a good relationship with the characters,
Note: If the characters or their transla- he will act as a guide and translator. His ability to communicate with his people and
tor don’t have at least 30% in the Squin knowledge of their customs and government will prove invaluable in the initial stages
language, all of their checks are one of contact. He fails to mention his status as a pariah unless it was coaxed out of him,
grade more difficult.
but the presence of actual alien beings is enough to convince the Squin that Paab is
not a raving loony. With him along, the characters do not need to worry about transla-
tion if they lack sufficient skill in the Squin language.

Life Among the Squin

If the characters are able to gain the trust of Quuaal, they may either use their own
means of transportation or ride on one of the Squin trains to the city of Issuu. Once in
the capital, they are given free rein to explore the community alongside their escorts,
and Quuaal will go back to the government to discuss the next step in communica-
tion with the aliens. This will take two days, and during that time the characters are
offered lodging at a simple but clean hostel and have meals brought to them by local
Map of Issuu businesses and families.
A. Market Square
Issuu is laid out in a wagon wheel format with the tower that serves as the hub of
B. Leadership Tower the government sitting at the center. The buildings are rounded structures made of
C. Guest Hostel dense clay covered with light colored plaster, and many have access points on higher ...

Continued on page 138

134 BRAVE NEW WORLD

C

B A

FARML AND

ISSUU

BRAVE NEW WORLD 135

 STR 2d6+2 (8) Squin
CON 3d6 (10-11)

SIZ 2d6+2 (8) Strangeness: 40

DEX 2d6+6 (12) Classification: Omnivore
INT 2d6+4 (10)
Habitat: Coastal regions, marshes, and plains
POW 3d6 (10-11)
Behaviour: Squin are highly social and friendly to other members of their people,
CHA 3d6 (10-11)
but are wary of other species and nervous when outside the confines of their walled
communities
Move 5m
Action Pt 2 Social: Squin maintain close knit communities within secure locations, often protect-
HP 10 ed by walls. They work together to maintain their communities and believe all property
Weapons – belongs to everyone in the settlement

Armor – Communication: Sound (own language and other learned languages)

PP 11
Universals: None
Dmg Mod –
Skills Varies Advantages: Amphibious (may hold breath up to CON in minutes while underwater),
Expert Climber (Athletics checks to climb are one difficulty grade easier)

Disadvantages: Adapted to Moist Environments (suffers an automatic Fatigue level

per hour when in dry or arid environments), Habitual Kleptomaniacs

The native species of Gluburu, the Squin are an early industrial society that evolved
from amphibious stock and became the dominant species of their planet. They adapt-
ed to the harsh and savage conditions of their world by developing tools and walled
communities that kept them safe and allowed them to flourish. These communities be-
came their own city-states, cut off from other pockets of civilization by large swathes
of dangerous jungles and wetlands, and that has led to some differences in language,
culture, and technological development among the Squin. The most advanced settle-
ment is the city known as Issuu on the northern tip of the largest continent, and that
city forged an alliance with two other smaller city-states to form the most advanced
Squin society on the planet.

136 BRAVE NEW WORLD

The Squin have tight-knit social networks within their communities, bound together
by a mutual need for survival. The walls that protect them have caused the species to
develop a laissez-faire attitude about life and obligations, but somehow their society
manages to function and thrive. There are few records of wars on the planet, and
weapons were developed primarily for protection against the larger predators that
roam the wilds. The Squin maintain a socialist government ruled by an elected Es-
teemed High Eminence, although like many things in their culture the government is a
loosely regulated formality that accomplishes very little. The most notable trait of the
Squin is their poorly developed concept of personal property. During the many years
of struggling to survive, the Squin shared every resource available to them equally
and no single Squin was said to own anything. This trait persists to this day, turn-
ing them into a species of oblivious kleptomaniacs that snatches anything that isn’t
nailed down as often they leave behind something of their own without concern.

BRAVE NEW WORLD 137

Squin Delicacies: The characters are
floors that are easily accessible by the Squin thanks to their natural climbing abili-
offered many meals by the local popu-
ties. The streets are inlaid with colored stones and during busy times of the day they
lace, and only a few of them are actu-
are clogged with pedestrians and wagons pulled by docile but musky alien beasts of
ally edible by non-Squin. Each time the
characters indulge in Squin delicacies, burden known as syuie.
have them make an Endurance check.
The Squin who encounter the characters either give them a wide berth or are curious
On a failure, the character either suf-
to the point of being intrusive, coming up to paw at the characters or ask them ques-
fers 1d3 levels of fatigue, hallucinates
vividly for 1d6 hours, or gets food poi-
tions in their native tongue. They also have the tendency to instinctively snatch ran-
soning and suffers 1d3 damage to the dom items off the characters’ belts, from inside backpacks, or out of pockets. Anytime
chest and abdomen. On a success, the the characters are approached by Squin, have them make an opposed Perception
food is edible to that particular charac- check against the average Squin’s Sleight skill of 45%. If the Squin is successful, he or
ter and they do not need to check if they she takes a random small object from the character or places a minor trinket or bauble
eat the same meal again.
in the character’s pocket. After this happens a few times, reduce the difficulty of the
Rogue Beasts: While the syuie pack Perception check to Easy. If confronted, the Squin often don’t even realize what they
beasts are usually quite docile, while
did and returns the item without a fight.
the characters are out exploring Issuu
a herd of 3d6 of them gets spooked While the characters are visiting, you can use one or more of the encounters in the
and breaks free from their pen. The sidebars to spice up their stay until they meet with the ruling council.
creatures stampede down the street,
endangering everyone in their path.
The characters must run for their lives
(with Athletics checks) or risk getting
trampled for 1d8+1d6 damage to 1d4
locations. They can also try to res-
cue innocent Squin in the path of the
beasts, or attempt to calm or redirect
the herd by whatever means they have
available. If the characters resort to
violence, weapons fire spooks the crea-
tures (and near-by Squin) and causes
the beasts to rampage in the direction
opposite of the sound.

Local Toughs: The loose nature of

Squin culture means most people are
pretty free with their possessions and
don’t take offense if someone acciden- ...

138 BRAVE NEW WORLD

 ... tally walks off with something. But like
Staking the Claim
any other civilization, there are those
that put their own greed over all other
If the characters are able to fend off the Acquisitions team, either prior to contact with
concerns and have no problem taking
the Squin or after, and if they have been successful in gaining the trust of the native
what others have. While the characters
populace, the next step is to negotiate an agreement with the government about entry are out one evening, they stumble across
into the galactic community. After two days in Issuu they are called to meet with the a group of eight Squin thugs roughing up
Squin ruling council at the Leadership Tower at the center of the city. According to a couple and demanding all their valu-
APRC practices, they are to bring the binding orb with them to verify that the charac- ables. The thugs are armed with knives

ters made first contact. The characters are escorted there by guards and dignitaries and clubs and they can be intimidated
with a show of superior force, but may
from all three cities, and Squin citizens line the streets to watch the procession. Every-
also decide the high tech gear of the
one is ushered into a large, round assembly hall in the center of the tower, and Bluubo
alien visitors would make a better prize
steps up to a podium to make an impassioned speech. If the characters understand and attack.
the Squin language, or have a translator available, read the following. If their knowl-
Claim Jumpers: Depending on what has
edge of the language is limited (less than 25%), omit the words in bold (or replace
happened with the CypherCorp Acquisi-
them with something weird or menacing) unless the characters make a successful tions team, 643 may opt for a different
Language: Squin check. approach in their attempt to steal away
the exploration claim. He sends in his
The Squin known as The Esteemed High Eminence strides up to the podium and gives
bureaucrat Danel Torr along with four
all his assembled people a wide smile, his watery eyes looking over them as he clears security agents to make a counteroffer
his throat with a deep croaking sound. He leans into a metallic megaphone mounted to the Squin leadership in the hopes of
on the podium which helps his voice carry over the quiet murmur of the gathered swaying them away from the Elevation
crowd. crew. Danel brings along some cheap
technological baubles as a way of brib-
“My people! This is truly a momentous occasion! We have been visited by be- ing the Squin, and tries to convince them
ings from beyond the sky above, and they approach us with peaceful inten- that CypherCorp will be a better option
tions. From what my dear assistant Sub-Esteemed Low Eminence Quuaal has to help guide them into the galaxy. The
told me, they want us to be part of the great civilization that lies out there characters need to convince the Squin
that they have their best interests in
among the stars! It is my honor to bring our people into this new and enlight-
mind, and deal with any surviving EnGee
ened place, and into a future that will be great for all of us! Today I will take the
soldiers, who sneak into the community
first steps into guiding us there, and with your ruling council we will meet with to assassinate the characters. If Danel is
these strangers from beyond and see what they can provide us to help make part of the negotiation with the Squin, he
the Squin even greater!” is added to the extended conflict in the
Staking the Claim encounter below and
With a raise of his blubbery arms, the gathering explodes into applause and raucous
has a pool of 15 and a skill of 70%.
cheers. The High Eminence seems to eat it up as he struts around the room towards

BRAVE NEW WORLD 139

 you, his smile never wavering. As he gets close to you, the smile drops and his eyes
bore into you.

“Let’s see what you have to offer. And I hope I like it.”

Bluubo leads them into a smaller circular meeting chamber and sits the characters
at a small stone table at the center. All around them are dour-looking Squin in or-
nate ceremonial robes, glowering down at the characters. Bluubo and Quuaal sit in a
small balcony that overlooks the table, and both have changed into the same robes,
although Bluubo’s are gilded and covered in intricate designs and beads. Quuaal
asks the characters how this sort of thing is normally handled, and if they produce
the binding orb she asks about it and what it signifies. They also ask what Elevation
will do to assist the Squin if they agree to enter into a contract with them, and Bluubo
seems especially interested in what benefits it will have for him, and to a lesser extent
his people. At least one of the characters will need to make an Oratory check to ad-
dress the crowd, or if no one has the skill a Hard Influence check. If that check fails,
see below to see how that affects things. After all of that is explained, the council
Extended Conflict:
members discuss it among themselves in hushed tones and then several representa-
Agreement Negotiations
tives whisper to Bluubo and Quuaal. Then Bluubo stands and tells the characters be-
Skills: Influence or Oratory, augmented
fore they agree to anything they will need to discuss all the terms. This is handled as
by Bureaucracy (to know how to handle
an extended conflict against the Squin ruling council, including Bluubo and Quuaal,
this kind of negotiation), Commerce (to
discuss financial benefits), and Politics with a pool of 16 using a skill of 70%. Active characters each make checks against
(to know how to play the game with the them with the stats in the sidebar.
ruling council)
If they are successful, the Squin agree to enter into a contract with Elevation to help
Conflict Pool: INT+CHA/2 them facilitate entry into the galaxy. Bluubo also agrees to use the binding orb to de-
Round Length: 1 hour clare the characters as the ones who initiated first contact with them. The characters
are invited to a celebration in their honor, a citywide festival of song, dance, and food
Opposing Force: 70%, Pool 16
that lasts for several days. With the negotiation successful, the characters must make
Note: If the characters or their transla-
contact with Elevation command immediately and must get the binding orb back to
tor don’t have at least 30% in the Squin
the APRC office on Barterdome as soon as possible. They can either put it back in the
language, all of their checks are one
grade more difficult. Also if the Oratory automated drone to ship it back, or take it there in person. If 643 and the Acquisitions
(or Influence) check failed, the pool for team was not dealt with earlier, they may seek to intercept the drone or attack the
the Squin council is increased to 18. characters to prevent the orb from getting back.

140 BRAVE NEW WORLD

If the conflict was a failure, the Squin are not agreeable to the current conditions and
wish to either re-negotiate at a later time or meet with representatives of other orga-
nizations to see what they have to offer. The characters can attempt to appeal to the
council again, and the above extended conflict can be repeated after a few days time
but the Squin pool is raised to 20. If the Acquisitions team is still on planet and they
learn of this, 643 or his bureaucrat Danel Torr approach the Squin with their offer and
attempt to steal the first contact away.

Conclusion
If the characters were successful in negotiating with getting the Squin to use Elevation
to help facilitate entry into the galaxy, once the binding orb is delivered to the APRC
the mission is successful. It will take some time before all the details are ironed out,
and even longer before Elevation reaps the benefits of the deal, but the organization
is back on the path to becoming what it once was. Director Earther and her senior
staff will give the characters a hero’s welcome when they get back to Terra, and they
will be assigned to help with the facilitation efforts with the Squin while still heading
out to find more unknown systems in the depths of the galaxy. If they have evidence
of CypherCorp’s attempted interference with their efforts, the APRC levels sanctions
against the corporation and the characters make a very powerful enemy.

If the characters were not successful and if they survived, CypherCorp eventually finds
a way to sneak in and broker a deal with Bluubo that gives them first rights with the
Squin. While Director Earther is very disappointed that they lost out on the chance
to help the Squin, the discovery of a new species bolsters her spirits enough to have
Elevation continue their mission to find the next new planet and the characters are
once again sent out into the unknown.

BRAVE NEW WORLD 141

SCENARIO HOOKS 19-20: A man appears claiming to be from the future and proves it
by successfully predicting a terrible accident. Is he the real deal,
or is he a dangerous conman looking to capitalize on misery?

A campaign focusing on a group exploring the unknown and 21-22: A scientist creates a universal key that can open any com-
staking claims on new worlds could last a long, long time. But puter or electronic lock. Does it really work and who will come
sometimes your players need a break from exploration, so here after it once word gets out?

are 50 adventure hooks for you to inspire your own adventures 23-24: A lone K’Taar approaches the characters seeking asylum,
in the Elevation universe. claiming to be a traitor to his people. Is he being truthful or is it a
dangerous ploy?

01-02: The Order of Science accidentally creates a dangerous, 25-26: While on Gres a group of savage Gresol known as Furies

sentient nano-virus that warps living beings into rage-filled kill- kidnaps a visiting Rajolan merchant. Can the characters save the
ers. When the virus is unleashed will Neo survive? merchant before he is slain by the savages?

03-04: An abandoned focal gate is found with a set of unknown 27-28: A deadly combat robot somehow evolves and manages to

coordinates that lead to a distant, unexplored system. What lies remove its programming limitations. Can the characters stop it
there and who previously used the gate? before it starts a robot revolution?

05-06: On Avalon, a knight of the Table of Avalon has gone missing 29-30: A long-lost Elevation probe drone suddenly sends out a dis-

in the mists. Why did he go missing and is he still alive? tress signal from a waste management planet. What caused it to
reactivate and what secrets does it contain?
07-08: A merchant offers to sell the characters a high-end robot
for a surprisingly low price. Why is the robot so cheap? 31-32: While out in deep space the characters spot a derelict
spacecraft of unknown make. Is it the ship of an unknown civiliza-
09-10: Very well equipped pirates begin hitting corporate trans-
tion and what lies on board?
port ships. Are they true buccaneers or are they privateers from a
rival corporation? 33-34: On Aroosia the characters attend an annual technology
convention and hear of several thefts. Can they help locate the
11-12: A group of poachers travels to an off-limits world in search
tech thief before he or she gets away?
of exotic beasts. Will the characters intervene if they learn of this?
35-36: Krayson Industries launches an experimental deep space
13-14: An informant contacts the characters with information on
exploration ship, but it disappears shortly after launch. Was there
the Lost Colony. Will they get to him before the Rajolans silence
a malfunction, was it sabotage, or did the crew mutiny?
the informant?
37-38: A series of murders seems to link back to a kindly Aarqun
15-16: A Malthraxx freedom fighter asks the characters to help
doctor. Is someone trying to frame the poor alien or did the good
her liberate slaves from a K’Taar work camp. Can they trust the
doctor break away from her people’s pacifistic ways?
angry, bitter former slave to keep her cool?
39-40: While docked on the planet Gres, several small but danger-
17-18: A seemingly worthless planetoid actually contains ruins of
ous predators sneak on board the characters’ ship and lie in wait.
a lost alien civilization. What lies there and who else wants to dis-
Will the characters be able to survive their attack and clear out
cover its secrets?
their ship?

142 SCENARIO HOOKS

41-42: There is a secret race held on various automated mining 61-62: The APRC hires the characters as freelance agents to help
planets around the galaxy. Are the characters willing to risk par- monitor worlds declared off limits so they can develop. When they
ticipating in the dangerous race to reap the massive prize? find a group of well-intentioned scientists trying to help a pro-
tected world, will the characters help the scientists or perform
43-44: A small agricultural colony is being harassed by members
their duties to the APRC?
of one of the Pirate Confederacy syndicates. What do the pirates
want with a small farming community with seemingly little value? 63-64: The characters are hired as security for a pop star as she
tours the outer colonies of the galaxy. Will they be able to protect
45-46: A Rajolan merchant hires the characters to deliver a mys-
her from rampant paparazzi and kidnappers seeking to ransom
terious crate to a distant research facility. What is inside that is
her for a hefty payday?
causing a purposeful, rhythmic tapping? Will they breech their
contract to find out? 65-66: On a destitute colony abandoned by the corporation that
founded it, the characters must protect the forgotten residents
47-48: The characters arrive at a well-established refueling sta-
from a criminal warlord looking to make the colony his private
tion on a well-traveled trade route and find it completely empty.
kingdom.
Where did all the inhabitants go, and is what took them still there?
67-68: An informant tells the characters that a group of EnGee
49-50: The characters are hired to transport a group of Gres co-
assassins are planning to kill a key member of a rival corporation
splayers to an annual pop culture convention. It turns out to be a
to ensure CypherCorp can buy out the company. Will the be able to
great time until someone decides to make the fantasy a terrible
convince the eccentric executive of the danger before its too late?
reality by unleashing viscous alien predators.
69-70: A quick service restaurant is hitting it big with a brand new
51-52: Clients are going missing at a high end bordello that is
sandwich, but the secret ingredient is an alien spice that is toxic
secretly a front for a a bizarre vampiric cult. Will the characters
if consumed in large quantities. Colonists are beginning to hal-
uncover the truth or become the next victims?
lucinate and act erratically, and the characters must discover the
53-54: Rumors are going around about an artifact discovered that cause before the colony erupts in chaos.
is allegedly older than the universe itself. The characters are sent
71-72: Upon following a ship distress signal in unknown space, the
to find the truth, but they are not the only ones seeking the artifact.
characters encounter a massive unknown space-dwelling being
55-56: An unknown alien virus is afflicting a small colony, causing that learned to mimic the signal to get help. Will the characters
all the residents to suffer bouts of synesthesia. Will the charac- be able to diagnose and help the alien creature before it perishes?
ters be able to find a cure while quarantined there? And will they
73-74: After jumping too close to the event horizon of a black hole,
be able to keep colonists from fleeing and spreading the virus off
the characters discover a duplicate version of their ship crewed by
planet?
twisted, evil versions of themselves. Can they find a way to work
57-58: A new religious movement is starting to spread across the with their evil doppelgangers so they can all escape before the
smaller colonies of the galaxy, drawing in followers from all spe- event horizon tears them apart?
cies. Who is the charismatic leader behind the faith and what are
75-76: The characters wake up in an unknown system with no idea
his true motives?
how they got there. The ships logs have been erased and the navi-
59-60: A new simulation game is taking the galaxy by storm and gation system is damaged. Can they discover what happened to
it quickly forms a fanatical player base. Is this obsession just the them and find a way to get back to known space?
latest fad or is there something sinister deep within the game?

SCENARIO HOOKS 143

77-78: An escape pod of unknown alien make is found in an un- gus seeks to uncover the secrets of Aarqun telepathy so it can
charted system. Inside is an alien that has never been encoun- be weaponized into deadly thought bombs. Will the characters be
tered before, still alive in stasis. Do the characters dare to wake able to mount a rescue and stop the Magus’ plans?
up the unknown alien, and what secrets does he hold?
91-92: A dangerous bounty hunter is tracking a group of Malthraxx
79-80: The characters stumble upon a critically damaged K’Taar refugees hiding on a small colony, and the characters must either
warship out in deep space. The commander is barely alive and stop the hunter or help the fugitives escape before they are cap-
begs for their help. What threat is terrible enough for the K’Taar tured.
to ask for assistance?
93-94: An ancient Aarqun piece of art has recently been put on
81-82: While on Neo the characters are approached by a young display by the owner, and people who view it begin to have strange
girl who seemingly possesses vast, uncontrolled psionic powers. visions and memory loss. Is it the art causing the effects or is
Will they be able to keep her under control and protect her from something else behind the symptoms?
the Cyclops Clan assassins sent to retrieve her?
95-96: Rumors of a man who looks like Marcus Earther get back
83-84: After crash landing on an unknown planet, the characters to Elevation and the characters are sent out to investigate. Is it
must utilize what technology and resources they have to survive really the long-lost founder or is someone pretending to be the
long enough to escape or be rescued. Will it be enough to outlast space hero for their own gain?
the hostile environment and the aggressive, primitive native spe-
97-98: A member of the Order of Science asks the characters to
cies?
investigate some recent changes in the Prophet, including order-
85-86: Cyborgs and robots are being afflicted with a mysterious ing a witch hunt within the organization. Is the massive super-
techno-virus that turns them into killers and then disappears from computer malfunctioning or is someone within the Order manipu-
their system. Who let loose this virus and who is the next target? lating their electronic oracle for his or her own benefit?

87-88: The characters wake up with their minds implanted into 99-00: A prominent peacemaker and ambassador has arranged
cloned alien bodies. They must learn how to function in their new a conference on Barterdome to help improve relations between
form, who did this to them, and how to get back to their original the known space faring species of the galaxy. Not everyone wants
bodies. peace though, and the characters must foil an assassination plot
that might spark intergalactic conflict.
89-90: The K’Taar attack the colony world of Fedarus and take
many Aarqun prisoner, including a friend of the characters. A Ma-

144 SCENARIO HOOKS

NON-PLAYER CHARACTERS
What follows are the game statistics for the non-player characters featured in the
adventures. They are presented as generic templates that can be modified to suit
your needs, and several variants are included for many of the templates to give you
ready-made options.

Note that the listed Combat Style includes any weapons the non-player character is STR 2d6+9 (16)
equipped with, and any Standard Skills that are not listed are assumed to have a rat- CON 2d6+5 (12)
ing of 40%.
SIZ 2d6+9 (16)

DEX 3d6 (10-11)

Alien Beast INT 2d6+2 (8)

POW 2d6+2 (8)

There are millions of different alien predatory creatures lurking in the dark places of
the galaxy. The statistics here are for a ground-based beast the size of a large wolf or CHA – –
jungle cat, hungry for the soft flesh of intrepid explorers.
Move 6m
Aquatic Beast: Aquatic beasts lack a land speed but are able to swim (Move 8 m Action Pt 2
underwater) and function at no penalty when submerged. They usually have a viscous
HP 14
bite attack (Damage 1d8+1d4, Size M or L).
Weapons 60%, var. dmg
Flying Beast: Flying beasts are not as hardy (STR: 10, CON: 11, HP: 10) and slow on Armor 2 (Tough Hide)
the ground (Move 2 m), but they have a flight speed of 10 m and often dive bombs PP –
their prey. Dmg Mod –

Venomous Beast: Some beasts have venomous bites or stings. If the beast’s attack Skills: Athletics 65%, Brawn 55%, Com-
penetrates armor and deals damage, the target must make an opposed Endurance bat Style: Natural Weapons 60%, En-
check against the venom’s potency rating of 70%. If this check is failed, the target is durance 65%, Evade 55%, Perception

paralyzed for 1d6 minutes or suffers 1d6 damage each round to the chest or abdo- 60%, Track 55%, Willpower 45%

men for the next 1d6 rounds. Medical treatment with antivenom alleviates the poison Demeanor: Alien beasts are usually ag-
effect. gressive, stalking potential prey until
they find the best opportunity to strike.
Special Traits: Natural attack (bite, claws, gore, or stinger; 1d6+1d4 Size M), either Some are solitary hunters while others
Superior Sense (Perception and Tracking checks with one sense are one difficulty travel in packs lead by an alpha who has
grade easier) or Unique Sense (night vision, sonar sense, vibration sense). superior stats.

NON-PLAYER CHARACTERS 145

 STR 2d6+6 (12) Assassin
CON 2d6+6 (12)
One constant throughout history is there are always people willing to kill other peo-
SIZ 2d6+6 (12) ple for the right price. The statistics below represent a ninja-like assassin that uses
DEX 2d6+8 (14) stealth and quick strikes to kill his or her target.

INT 2d6+6 (12) Bounty Hunter: Although they are often cold-blooded killers, most bounty hunters
POW 3d6 (10-11) prefer to bring in their targets alive if the price is higher. Bounty hunters have the fol-

CHA 3d6 (10-11) lowing skill adjustments and additions: Drive or Pilot at 65%, Gunnery 65%, Survival
70%, and Track 75%. They are often equipped with mag shotguns, mag pistols, stun
Move 6m sticks, and usually have superior body armor (armor rating 4+).
Action Pt 2 Cyborg Assassin: These semi-mechanical killers share the same stats as other assas-
HP 12 sins, but they have retractable weapons such as holdout lasers or molecular blades
Weapons See equipment hidden in cybernetic limbs. Their cybernetics are disguised as normal living body
Armor 3 (Concealable) parts and are sensor shielded (increase difficulty grade to detect by two steps).
PP 11
Sniper: These assassins use high powered firearms and energy weapons to kill tar-
Dmg Mod –
gets from a great distance while staying hidden. They use the same base statistics, but
Skills: Acrobatics 65%, Athletics 70%, trade the listed weapons for a laser rifle or a mag rifle equipped with a scope (lower
Brawn 55%, Combat Style: Assassin the difficulty of the combat check by one additional step when aiming).
70%, Conceal 65%, Disguise 55%, En-
durance 70%, Evade 65%, Insight 55%, Equipment: Molecular blade (Damage 1d6+2, Size M, ignores 2 points of armor), ul-
Lockpicking 55%, Perception 65%, traviolet holdout laser (Damage 1d6+1, Range 7/25/50, Capacity 12, Load 3, ignores 2
Stealth 75%, Track 65%, Willpower 60% points of armor, Formidable Perception check to notice shot without special vision),
Unarmed 60% concealable body armor with active camouflage (Stealth checks are one difficulty
Demeanor: Assassins are often cold grade easier while active, ceases to function when assassin is damaged).
and detached, devoid of true emotion
and relentless in their pursuit of their
target. Assassins prefer to strike at
foes while hidden, fading back into the
shadows once the target is dead or the
assassin is compromised.

146 NON-PLAYER CHARACTERS

Bureaucrat STR 2d6+4 (10)

CON 3d6 (10-11)

The gears of the galactic machine grind away thanks to the dedication and hard work
of the bureaucrats who keep the political and financial systems running smoothly. A SIZ 2d6+4 (10)

bureaucrat could be a corporate drone, an APRC claim manager, or a powerful politi- DEX 3d6 (10-11)
cian looking to get ahead. INT 2d6+7 (13)
Ambassador: In a diverse galaxy made up of species with their own beliefs and POW 3d6 (10-11)
agendas, ambassadors are the ones who try to make peace and develop new bonds CHA 2d6+6 (12)
between worlds. Ambassadors have the following skill adjustments and additions:
Courtesy 75%, two Cultures at 70%, Influence 75%, Insight 70%, two Languages at Move 6m
65%, Oratory 70%, and Politics 60%. They also have ceremonial garb or documents Action Pt 2
identifying their role. HP 10

Politician: Governments are made up of people who are assigned or elected to serve Weapons –

the very people being governed. Politicians have the following skill adjustments and Armor –

additions: Deceit or Influence at 70%, Insight 65%, Oratory 65%, and Politics 75%. PP 11
Dmg Mod –
Equipment: Computer slate, wristcomp, identification badge.
Skills: Bureaucracy 65%, Courtesy 55%,
Influence 60%, Insight 55%, Perception
55%, Willpower 60%, and either Com-
merce or Computers at 55%

Demeanor: Bureaucrats can range

from humorless sticklers that only care
about policy and procedure to congenial
civil servants willing to help anyone in
need.

NON-PLAYER CHARACTERS 147

 STR 3d6 (10-11) Criminal
CON 3d6 (10-11)
Wherever there is law and order, there are those who wish to carve their own path by
SIZ 2d6+6 (12) circumventing the law for their own gain. A criminal could be a devious mastermind, a
DEX 3d6 (10-11) mob leg breaker, or a shifty con man looking to fleece someone out of their fortunes.

INT 2d6+6 (12) Con Artist: These criminals get by on their looks, their charms, or their ability to trick
POW 3d6 (10-11) the naive and gullible. Con artists have the following skill adjustments and additions:
Acting 65%, Courtesy 60%, Deceit 75%, Disguise 60%, Forgery 65%, Gambling 70%,
CHA 3d6 (10-11)
Insight 70%, Seduction 70%, and Willpower 65%. Con artists usually favor smaller
Move 6m weapons such as a holdout mag pistol.
Action Pt 2 Crime Boss: At the top of the underworld food chain lie the bosses, veteran criminals
HP 11 tough enough or smart enough to make other criminals fall in line. Crime bosses have
Weapons See equipment the following skill adjustments and additions: Deceit 70%, Influence 75%, Insight 75%,
Armor 2 (Light Vest) Oratory 65%, Perception 70%, Streetwise 75%, and Willpower 80%.
PP 11
Thief: Whether its a pickpocket working a crowd or a suave cat burglar planning an
Dmg Mod –
elaborate heist, thieves get by by stealing whatever they fancy. Thieves have the fol-
Skills: Athletics 50%, Brawn 50%, Com- lowing skill adjustments and additions: Acrobatics 65%, Athletics 65%, Conceal 70%,
bat Style: Criminal 60%, Conceal 55%, Deceit 65%, Disguise 60%, Evade 65%, Lockpicking 75%, Perception 65%, Sleight
Deceit 55%, Drive 60%, Endurance 60%, 75%, and Stealth 75%. Thieves usually carry tool kits appropriate to their line of work,
Evade 55%, Gambling 55%, Insight 50%,
such as lockpicks or climbing gear.
Perception 55%, Streetwise 60%, Will-
power 60%, Unarmed 60% Equipment: Mag pistol (Damage 1d8, Range 20/100/200, Capacity 12, Load 3), knife

Demeanor: Criminals vary wildly in (Damage 1d4, Size S), light undercover vest.
personality, from ruthless sadists to
charming sociopaths to career mob-
sters who live by a twisted code of
honor.

148 NON-PLAYER CHARACTERS

EnGee Commander STR 2d6+8 (14)

CON 2d6+6 (12)

The commanders of CypherCorp’s elite EnGee units are battle hardened veterans who
are willing to do whatever it takes to serve their corporate masters. EnGee Command- SIZ 2d6+8 (14)
ers have long ago broken free from the shackles of morality, seeing the mission as DEX 2d6+7 (13)
their only guiding factor. INT 2d6+7 (13)
Equipment: Laser pistol (Damage 1d8+1, Range 10/30/120, Capacity 30, Load 3, ig- POW 2d6+6 (12)
nore 2 points of armor), molecular blade (Damage 1d6+1d2+2, Size M, ignore 2 points
CHA 2d6+4 (10)
of armor), tactical field armor, computer slate, tactical wristcomp.
Move 6m
Skills: Athletics 70%, Brawn 65%, Bureaucracy 55%, Combat Style: EnGee 75%, Demoli-
tions 60%, Drive 65%, Endurance 70%, Evade 70%, First Aid 60%, Gunnery 70%, Influence Action Pt 2
65%, Insight 65%, Oratory 65%, Perception 75%, Pilot 65%, Stealth 65%, Survival 65%, HP 13
Willpower 75% Weapons See equipment
Demeanor: EnGee commanders are often cold and detached, but some have the level Armor 4 (Tact. Field Arm.)
of charm typical of true sociopaths. They are very disciplined with their troops and with PP 12
CypherCorp personnel. Dmg Mod +1d2

EnGee Soldier STR 2d6+8 (14)

CON 2d6+6 (12)

The EnGee units of CypherCorp serve to enact the soulless mega-corporation’s poli-
SIZ 2d6+8 (14)
cies and do its dirty work. Genetically modified to be the ultimate soldiers, EnGees are
DEX 2d6+6 (12)
brainwashed to be completely loyal to CyperCorp and its interests.
INT 2d6+4 (10)
Equipment: Laser rifle (Damage 1d10+1, Range 300/100/300, Capacity 50, Load 3,
POW 2d6+4 (10)
ignore 2 points of armor, expend 5 shots to do 1d12+1 damage), molecular blade
(Damage 1d6+1d2+2, Size M, ignore 2 points of armor), 2 grenades (Damage 2d6 in 3 CHA 2d6+4 (10)
metre radius, Range 5/10/15), tactical body armor, tactical wristcomp.
Move 6m
Skills: Athletics 60%, Brawn 60%, Combat Style: EnGee 65%, Demolitions 50%, Drive 60%, Action Pt 2
Endurance 60%, Evade 60%, First Aid 50%, Gunnery 60%, Insight 55%, Perception 55%,
HP 13
Pilot 60%, Stealth 60%, Survival 60%, Willpower 60%
Weapons See equipment
Demeanor: EnGee soldiers seem almost robotic, devoid of individuality or personality
Armor 5 (Tact. Body Arm.)
when they are out in the field. When not on a mission they have a bit more personality, but
PP 10
their emotions are muted.
Dmg Mod +1d2

NON-PLAYER CHARACTERS 149

 STR 2d6+6 (12) K’Taar Kleev
CON 2d6+8 (14)
The front line shock troops of the K’Taar empire, Kleevs are mass produced robots
SIZ 2d6+6 (12) equipped with deadly plasma blasters and whipping tendrils tipped with whirling
DEX 2d6+6 (12) drills. They are fearless and heartless, driven on by the will of the K’Taar warriors that

INT 2d6+4 (10) control them.

POW 2d6+2 (8) The control units on the robots have extensive and complex security measures to

CHA 2d6+2 (8) prevent them from being overridden or hacked, but it is still possible with a Hard
Computer check. Fail safes within the robot make hacked units go offline at the end of
Move 6m the combat round they are compromised, rendering them inert until rebooted by their
Action Pt 2 warrior commander. If the commander is subdued, Kleevs will enact their last order
HP 13 until given new commands. If the ship or command module from where they are be-
Weapons See equipment ing directed is disabled or destroyed, all Kleevs linked to it will go offline until a new
Armor 4 (Arm. Carapace) command module is linked to their systems.

PP – Special: Robots are artificial beings and are not subject to toxins or diseases that
Dmg Mod – only affect living organisms. They have no need to breathe, eat, or sleep and are no
affected by hard vacuum or low levels of radiation, heat, or cold.
Skills: Athletics 60%, Brawn 60%, Com-
bat Style: Plasma Weapons 65%, Evade Onboard equipment: Plasma rifle (Damage 2d6+1, Range 25/75/300, Capacity 24,
55%, Perception 55%, Unarmed 65%
Load 3, may use Sunder special effect, expend 3 shots to fire stream out to 8 metres
Demeanor: Kleevs have no personal- for 2d6 damage), lashing drill tentacles (Damage 1d6+1, Size M, Ignores 2 points of
ity at all, communicating only to the armor), multi-band scanner (allows scanning of multiple bands of electromagnetic
K’Taar warrior that leads them and they
spectrum and x-ray scanning), flight systems (move 10m).
can also transmit messages from their
commander

150 NON-PLAYER CHARACTERS

K’Taar Warrior STR 2d6+3 (10)

CON 2d6+6 (10-11)

Frightening in appearance but physically unimposing, K’Taar warriors are gifted with
minds that excel in multitasking and they command small squads of deadly Kleevs SIZ 2d6+8 (10)
that serve the K’Taar dreams of conquest. They use special cybernetic implants to DEX 3d6 (10-11)
control these robots, often from a great range if they have access to a transmitter or INT 2d6+7 (13)
shipboard communications array.
POW 2d6+6 (10-11)
Equipment: Plasma pistol (Damage 1d8+1, Range 8/24/100, Capacity 12, Load 3, may
CHA 2d6+4 (12)
use Sunder special effect), armor carapace, control implants.
Move 6m
Action Pt 2
HP 13
Weapons See equipment
Armor 5 (Arm. Carapace)
PP 12
Dmg Mod –

Skills: Astrogation 65%, Combat Style:

Plasma Weapons 65%, Comms 55%,
Computers 65%, Deceit 55%, Evade
60%, Insight 60%, Gunnery 70%, Per-
ception 60%, Pilot: Starship 70%, Sen-
sors 65%, Willpower 65%, Zero-G 70%

Demeanor: K’Taar warriors are often

arrogant and intolerant of other spe-
cies, believing they are beneath them.
In a direct confrontation, K’Taar will
hide behind their Kleevs and flee to
safety if they feel threatened or out-
numbered.

NON-PLAYER CHARACTERS 151

 STR 2d6+6 (12) Laborer
CON 2d6+6 (12)
No matter how advanced the galaxy gets, there will always be a need for people to do
SIZ 2d6+6 (12) the back breaking work that keeps society going. A laborer engages in more physical
DEX 3d6 (10-11) pursuits, working as cargo loaders, construction, or in a agricultural industry.

INT 2d6+4 (10) Dockhand: At any spaceport there are countless dockhands ready to handle cargo,
POW 2d6+4 (10) refuel ships, or assist mechanics to keep vessels flying. Dockhands have the follow-

CHA 2d6+4 (10) ing adjustments and additions: Comms 50%, Mechanics 55%, Pilot 50%, and Sensors
50%.
Move 6m
Farmer: The one constant among all cultures is the need for foodstuffs, and farmers
Action Pt 2 are the ones who do the hard work to ensure there is always something to eat. Farm-
HP 12 ers have the following skill adjustments and additions: Commerce 50%, Craft (choose
Weapons See equipment one) 55%, Knowledge: Horticulture or Veterinary 65%, Ride 55%, and Survival 50%.
Armor –
Equipment: Large tool or implement (Damage 1d6, Size M), worn uniform, late model
PP 10
wristcomp.
Dmg Mod –

Skills: Athletics 60%, Brawn 65%, Com-

bat Style: Laborer 50%, Drive 55%, En-
durance 65%, Willpower 55%

Demeanor: Laborers are often down-

to-earth, practical people who value
honest work over extravagance

152 NON-PLAYER CHARACTERS

Merchant STR 2d6+4 (10)

CON 2d6+4 (10)

The sale of goods and services forms the backbone of civilized culture, ensuring that
everyone has what they need and has access to the things they want. Merchants serve SIZ 2d6+4 (10)

to get those goods to consumers, whether in a small storefront or behind the desk of DEX 3d6 (10-11)
a billion trade unit corporation. INT 2d6+6 (12)
Space Trader: With the advent of space travel the landscape of trade changed dras- POW 3d6 (10-11)
tically, and space traders are the ones who ply the stars in search of new markets CHA 2d6+6 (12)
among alien species and displaced brethren. Space traders have the following skill
adjustments and additions: Astrogation 65%, Comms 55%, Computers 55%, Culture Move 6m
(choose two) 65%, Language (choose two) 65%, Pilot: Starship 55%, and Sensors Action Pt 2
55%. Space traders also have at least a light scout. HP 10

Equipment: Computer slate or wristcomp, various goods for sale. Weapons See equipment
Armor –
PP 11
Dmg Mod –

Skills: Commerce 65%, Courtesy 65%,

Deceit or Influence 65%, Insight 65%,
Oratory 55%, Perception 55%, Research
55%, Willpower 65%

Demeanor: Merchants are often well

practiced at being friendly if it will help
make the sale, although some are stub-
born and unflinching from their asking
prices.

NON-PLAYER CHARACTERS 153

 STR 3d6 (10-11) Officer
CON 3d6 (10-11)
Organized military units need people who are capable of directing their actions and
SIZ 2d6+6 (12) keeping the troops in line. Officers are the commanders of combat units, either serv-
DEX 3d6 (10-11) ing on the front lines or from the main deck of a battleship high above the battlefield.

INT 2d6+6 (12) Pirate Captain: The scourge of the space lanes, pirates have evolved with the times
POW 3d6 (10-11) and now seek their ill-gotten fortunes by plundering lone ships deep in space. Pirate

CHA 2d6+6 (12) captains have the following skill adjustments and additions: Astrogation 65%, Deceit
75%, Endurance 60%, Gambling 60%, Pilot: Starship 65%, Stealth 55%, Streetwise
Move 6m 75%, and Track 60%. Pirate captains may also have mag weapons, a melee weapon
Action Pt 2 such as a sword or a molecular blade, and a small robotic animal companion.
HP 12 Ship Captain: From the smallest scout ships to massive freighters, a ship’s captain
Weapons See equipment helps keep the crew in line and the vessel on course. Ship captains have the following
Armor 2 (Reinforced Uni.) skill adjustments and additions: Astrogation 70%, Pilot: Starship 75%, and Sensors
PP 11 65%.
Dmg Mod –
Equipment: Laser pistol (Damage 1d8+1, Range 10/30/120, Capacity 30, Load 3, ig-
Skills: Bureaucracy 55%, Combat Style: nore 2 points of armor), computer slate, tactical wristcomp, reinforced uniform.
Officer 60%, Comms 60%, Drive 60%,
Evade 60%, Influence 75%, Insight 65%,
Knowledge: Tactics 70%, Oratory 70%,
Perception 65%, Willpower 70%

Demeanor: Most officers epitomize dis-

cipline and order, maintaining the fa-
cade even in the face of overwhelming
odds or danger

154 NON-PLAYER CHARACTERS

Scientist STR 2d6+3 (9)

CON 2d6+4 (10)

Inventors, engineers, and researchers who look to unlock the secrets of the universe
or push the boundaries of what is already known. SIZ 2d6+4 (10)

DEX 3d6 (10-11)

Engineer: While scientists work to unravel the mysteries of the universe, engineers
work to develop new and exciting technologies to advance the universe. Engineers INT 2d6+8 (14)
have the following skill adjustments and additions: Craft (choose three) 75%, Elec- POW 3d6 (10-11)
tronics 65%, Engineering 75%, Mechanics 65%, and Science (choose one) 65%. CHA 3d6 (10-11)
Equipment: Computer slate, portable scanner, wristcomp, various tools and notes.
Move 6m
Action Pt 2
HP 10
Weapons See equipment
Armor –
PP 11
Dmg Mod –

Skills: Computers 60%, Craft (choose

one) 60%, Knowledge (choose two) 65%,
Language (choose one) 55%, Perception
65%, Research 75%, Science (choose
three) 75%, Teach 60%, Willpower 65%

Demeanor: Scientists cover a wide

range of personalities, from the absent-
minded to the eccentric to the aloof.
Some are socially awkward while others
are confident to the point of arrogance.
And some are mad, mad I tell you!

NON-PLAYER CHARACTERS 155

 STR 3d6 (10-11) Security Agent
CON 2d6+6 (12)
Wherever there is law there are law enforcement agents enforcing the rules and man-
SIZ 2d6+6 (12) dates that keep civilization civilized. Security agents could be roving marshals, private
DEX 3d6 (10-11) corporate security, or members of a colonial police force.

INT 3d6 (10-11) Soldier: War never changes, and because of that there will always be a need for brave
POW 2d6+4 (10) individuals willing to fight for their planet, country, or beliefs. Soldiers have the fol-

CHA 2d6+4 (10) lowing skill adjustments and additions: Athletics 65%, Combat Style: Soldier 65%, De-
molitions 55%, Evade 65%, First Aid 50%, Knowledge: Tactics 50%, and Survival 60%.
Move 6m Soldiers are usually equipped with mag or laser rifles, combat knives, two grenades,
Action Pt 2 and they wear combat armor (armor rating 5).
HP 12 SWAT Officer: With the advent of advanced weapons and armor, security forces need
Weapons See equipment people trained in special tactics to deal with the most dangerous threats. SWAT of-
Armor 3 (Light Tactical) ficers have the following skill adjustments and additions: Athletics 65%, Combat Style:
PP 10 SWAT 65%, Demolitions 65%, Evade 60%, Lockpicking 55%, and Stealth 65%. They are
Dmg Mod – usually equipped with mag shotguns, two flash grenades (Endurance check or blinded
for 1d6 rounds for all in 4 metre radius), and tactical body armor (armor rating 6).
Skills: Athletics 50%, Brawn 55%, Com-
bat Style: Security Agent 55%, Drive Equipment: Mag pistol (Damage 1d8, Range 20/100/200, Capacity 12, Load 3), baton
55%, Endurance 55%, Evade 55%, In-
(Damage 1d6, Size M), flashlight, communicator, light tactical armor.
sight 60%, Perception 60%, Streetwise
45%, Willpower 55%

Demeanor: Security agents are often

no-nonsense and humorless when on
duty, and they develop a form of profes-
sional paranoia when it comes to the
unknown

156 NON-PLAYER CHARACTERS

Security Robot STR 2d6+6 (12)

CON 2d6+6 (12)

Robots were created to perform tasks that are too dangerous or difficult for living be-
ings, so it was only natural that security robots were created to help deal with enforc- SIZ 2d6+8 (14)
ing the law. Security robots could serve local governments or private organizations, DEX 3d6 (10-11)
but their high cost limits the groups who can afford to use them. INT 2d6+4 (10)
Pirate Drone: The high tech pirates known as the Freebooters use cheap but effective POW 2d6+4 (10)
combat drones as shock troops, and other pirate groups have started to follow suit.
CHA 2d6 (6)
Pirate drones have the following skill adjustments and additions: STR 8 (2d6+2), SIZ 8
(2d6+2), Hit Points: 10, Flight Speed 12 m, equipped with integrated mag rifle. Move 6m

Warbot: Battlefields are the most dangerous places in the galaxy, and some govern- Action Pt 2

ments are working to use combat robots instead of endangering living beings, or to HP 13
supplement regular troops. Warbots have the following skill adjustments and addi- Weapons See equipment
tions: STR 14 (2d6+8), CON 16 (2d6+10), SIZ 16 (2d6+10), Hit Points: 16, Brawn 75%, Armor 4 (Armored Shell)
and Combat Style: Warbot 70%. Warbots are often equipped with integrated pulser PP –
rifles, micro-missile launchers (Damage 2d8, Range 50/200/500, Capacity 8, affects 4 Dmg Mod –
metre radius), gravity mauls (Damage 2d6+1d2, Size L), and reinforced armor (armor
Skills: Athletics 60%, Brawn 65%, Com-
rating 10). bat Style: Security Robot 65%, Endur-

On-board Equipment: Cussor pistol (Damage 1d8, Range 4/12/50, Capacity 10, Load ance 75%, Evade 55%, Insight 50%, Per-
ception 70%, Sensors 65%, Track 50%,
3, knockback), Stun Stick (Damage 1d6+1d2, Size M, stun effects), sensors (infrared
Willpower 50%
and motion).
Demeanor: Security robots are outfitted
Special: Robots are artificial beings and are not subject to toxins or diseases that with the bare minimum personality pro-
only affect living organisms. They have no need to breathe, eat, or sleep and are no tocols, interacting only when necessary
affected by hard vacuum or low levels of radiation, heat, or cold. and presenting as cold and emotionless
in most situations

NON-PLAYER CHARACTERS 157

 STR 2d6+4 (10) Service Robot
CON 3d6 (10-11)
An ubiquitous part of the future, robots aid their owners in their work or do tasks that
SIZ 2d6+3 (9) are too dangerous, or too menial, for biological beings to do themselves. The statis-
DEX 3d6 (10-11) tics below represent the XO model used by Elevation, but service robots vary by the
INT 2d6+6 (12) specific task they were designed to perform.

POW 2d6+2 (8) Labor Bot: Working as cargo haulers in shipyards and factories, labor bots are de-

CHA 3d6 (10-11) signed to serve as mobile, automated forklifts to aid in transporting cargo and equip-
ment. Labor bots have the following skill adjustments and additions: STR 31 (3d6+20),
Move 6 m (Flight 10 m) CON 25 (3d6+14), SIZ 25 (3d6+14), DEX 8 (2d6+2), INT 8 (2d6+2, CHA 6 (2d6), Hit
Action Pt 2 Points: 25, and only the skills Brawn 85% and Endurance 85%.
HP 10
Mechanic Bot: Sometimes it takes a machine to repair a machine, and mechanic bots
Weapons See equipment are programmed to fix nearly anything. Mechanic bots have the following skill adjust-
Armor 2 (Polymer Shell) ments and additions: Brawn 55%, Computers 60%, Craft (any two) 65%, Electronics
PP – 65%, Engineering 55%, Mechanics 65%, and Sensors 60%. Mechanic bots also have
Dmg Mod – more intricate built-in tools.

Skills: Computers 50%, Courtesy 65%, On-board Equipment: Scanner (allows scanning of multiple bands of electromag-
Culture (choose two) 65%, Evade 50%, netic spectrum and x-ray scanning), built-in general toolkit, holographic display, flight
Endurance 50%, First Aid 55%, Influ-
systems (move 10 m).
ence 65%, Insight 55%, Knowledge
(choose two) 60%, Language (choose Special: Robots are artificial beings and are not subject to toxins or diseases that
two) 60%, Oratory 60%, Perception 55%, only affect living organisms. They have no need to breathe, eat, or sleep and are no
Willpower 50% affected by hard vacuum or low levels of radiation, heat, or cold.
Demeanor: XO robots are programmed
to be congenial and friendly to their as-
signed crew, and they are also designed
to help facilitate communication among
different species

158 NON-PLAYER CHARACTERS

Technician STR 3d6 (10-11)

CON 3d6 (10-11)

Gifted in the lingo of technology and the inner workings of its mechanisms, techni-
cians can be hackers, starship mechanics, or generalists who know a little bit about SIZ 2d6+6 (12)

everything. DEX 3d6 (10-11)

Hacker: Computers have become an integral part of the galaxy, and hackers have INT 2d6+6 (12)
mastered the art of accessing them. Hackers have the following skill adjustments and POW 3d6 (10-11)
additions: Comms 65%, Computers 75%, Culture: Dataweb 70%, Deceit 60%, Electron- CHA 3d6 (10-11)
ics 65%, and Insight 55%. Hackers usually have a customized computer slate based
on their area of expertise. Move 6 m (Flight 10 m)

Mechanic: Vehicles and star ships break down or need upgrades, and mechanics are Action Pt 2

the ones who tinker and patch up whatever needs it. Mechanics have the following HP 12

skill adjustments and additions: Brawn 55%, Craft: Starship or Vehicle 65%, Drive 55%, Weapons See equipment

Electronics 65%, Mechanics 70%, Pilot 50%, and Sensors 65%. Armor –
PP 11
Equipment: Tool kit, computer slate, wristcomp.
Dmg Mod –

Skills: Comms 50%, Craft (choose one)

60%, Electronics 60%, Endurance 50%,
Mechanics 65%, Perception 55%, Sen-
sors 50%

Demeanor: Technicians run the gamut

from the friendly to the surly, and some-
times their personality is determined
by what they are being asked to do and
how much they are getting paid for it.

NON-PLAYER CHARACTERS 159

 STR 2d6+6 (12) Thug
CON 3d6 (10-11)
For every criminal or would-be warlord in the galaxy there are always people willing to
SIZ 2d6+6 (12) serve as muscle for cold hard cash or just the opportunity to hurt other people. Thugs
DEX 3d6 (10-11) could be hired goons, petty criminals, or rowdy bar patrons looking for a scrap.

INT 2d6+3 (9) Mercenary: Soldiers for hire for whoever has the money, mercenaries are often ex-
POW 2d6+2 (8) military and have more training and focus than regular thugs. Mercenaries have the

CHA 2d6+2 (8) following skill adjustments and additions: Athletics 60%, Brawn 60%, Combat Style:
Mercenary 65%, Demolitions 55%, Evade 60%, First Aid 55%, Stealth 50%, Survival
Move 6m 55%, and Willpower 55%. Mercenaries usually have light combat armor (armor rating
Action Pt 2 4) and a mag rifle.
HP 12 Raider: Making up the crews of pirate vessels, raiders are undisciplined and poorly
Weapons See equipment armed but in numbers they are dangerous. Raiders have the following skill adjust-
Armor – ments and additions: Astrogation 45%, Comms 45%, Evade 55%, Gunnery 55%, Pilot:
PP 8 Starship 50%, and Sensors 50%. Raiders often wear piecemeal armor (armor rating 3)
Dmg Mod – and they may be equipped with laser pistols, mag rifles, or molecular blades.

Skills: Athletics 50%, Brawn 55%, Com- Equipment: Mag pistol (Damage 1d8, Range 20/100/200, Capacity 12, Load 3), Club
bat Style: Thug 55%, Drive 50%, Endur- (Damage 1d6, Size M).
ance 55%, Evade 45%, Streetwise 50%,
Willpower 45%, Unarmed 55%

Demeanor: Thugs often do their best to

act tough and intimidate others around
them, and they can be quick to resort to
violence as a means of solving a prob-
lem

160 NON-PLAYER CHARACTERS

Optional Rule: Underlings
If you want to make your game pulpier, you can use this optional rule to make com-
bat against nameless goons easier. Underlings are non-player characters that act as
cannon fodder for important villains, and while dangerous, they are not as durable as
other characters. Underlings have half the normal hit points in all locations (rounded
down) and are incapacitated when they take a serious wound. Whether the underling
is unconscious or dead is determined by the attack form the character used and the
Games Master’s judgment.

NON-PLAYER CHARACTERS 161

 VEHICLES AND STARSHIPS
Lift Car
The standard lift transport for two to four people

SPEED 12 Weapons –

HANDLING 10 Armor AP 8/–

SIZE 50 Dimensions L: 4 m W: 2 m
Weight 1.5 ton

Hit Points 50 Cargo 100 kg

Lift Cycle
A light, fast lift vehicle for one or two people

SPEED 15 Weapons –

HANDLING 17 Armor AP 3/–

SIZE 30 Dimensions L: 3 m W: 1 m
Weight 0.5 ton

Hit Points 30 Cargo 50 kg

162 VEHICLES AND STARSHIPS

Security Heavy SUV
A wheeled, armored security vehicle used by police forces and corporations

SPEED 10 Weapons Machine Gun

HANDLING 8 Armor AP 16/5

SIZE 100 Dimensions L: 6 m W: 3 m

Weight 5 ton

Hit Points 100 Cargo 400 kg

Equipment: Mag Machine Gun (Damage 2d10+4, Range 150 m)

Lift Truck
A larger, heavy lift vehicle used for transporting goods and materials

SPEED 10 Weapons –

HANDLING 6 Armor AP 10/–

SIZE 70 Dimensions L: 6 m W: 2 m
Weight 4 ton

Hit Points 70 Cargo 600 kg

VEHICLES AND STARSHIPS 163

 SPEED 12 Light Scout Ship
HANDLING 7
A typical exploration and survey vessel
SIZE 45

Cockpit 2
Hit Points 45
Crew 4
Shields 6
Weapons 1 (Laser, damage 1d6)
Armor 2
Engine 8 (Thrust Rating 560)
Weapons Laser (1d6)
Maneuver 8 (Thrust Rating 320)
Apps Nav +10%
Cargo 20
Hit Locations Cockpit 01-04
Hyperspace 2*
Crew 05-12
Weapons 13-19 Shields 6
Engine 20-39 Armor 2
Maneuver 40-55 Apps Navigation +10%
Cargo 56-89
Hypersp. 90-00 * 50 light years per jump, fuel for 400 light years of jumps

SPEED 23 Light Starfighter

HANDLING 17
A small, fast, maneuverable fighter craft used for defense and patrol
SIZE 6

Cockpit 1
Hit Points 6
Crew –
Shields 6
Weapons 2 (Pulse Laser, Torpedoes x4)
Armor 2
Engine 2 (Thrust Rating 140)
Weapons Pulse Laser (1d8)
Light Torpedoes Maneuver 1 (Thrust Rating 100)
(2d8) Cargo Personal Gear
Apps Target +10% Hyperspace –
Hit Locations Cockpit 01-20 Shields 6
Weapons 21-40 Armor 2
Engine 61-80
Apps Targeting +10%
Maneuver 81-00

164 VEHICLES AND STARSHIPS

Patrol Ship SPEED 13
HANDLING 13
A small but well-armed craft used for system patrol and colonial defense
SIZE 80

Cockpit 4
Hit Points 80
Crew 20 (8 crew, 12 boarding troops)
Shields 10
Weapons 5 (Pulse Lasers x4, Torpedoes x12)
Armor 8
Engine 10 (Thrust Rating 1000)
Weapons 4 Pulse Laser
Maneuver 10 (Thrust Rating 1000) Cannons (1d8)
Cargo 30 Torpedoes (3d6)
Hyperspace 1* Apps Sensors +10%
Shields 10 Targeting +15%

Armor 8 Hit Locations Cockpit 01-04

Crew 05-19
Apps Sensors +10%
Weapons 20-39
Targeting +15%
Engine 40-59
* 20 light years per jump, fuel for 100 light years of jumps Maneuver 59-79
Cargo 80-89
Hypersp. 90-00

VEHICLES AND STARSHIPS 165

 SPEED 11 Starseeker
HANDLING 11
Elevation’s exploration and survey vessel
SIZE 70

Cockpit 4
Hit Points 70
Crew 6
Shields 10
Weapons 2 (Dual Pulse Laser, Torpedoes x8)
Armor 6
Engine 8 (Thrust Rating 70)
Weapons Pulse Laser (2d8)
Maneuver 8 (Thrust Rating 100)
Torpedo x8 (3d6)
Cargo/Other* 40
Apps Nav +10%
Sensors +10% Hyperspace 3**
Target +10% Shields 10
Hit Locations Cockpit 01-04 Armor 6
Crew 05-12 Apps Navigation +10%
Weapons 13-19
Sensors +10%
Engine 20-39
Targeting +10%
Maneuver 40-55
Cargo 56-89
Hypersp. 90-00 * 20 tonnes cargo, sick bay, hangar for two lift bikes and
ATV, launch for two Ranger drones

** 100 light years per jump, fuel for 800 light years of jumps

166 VEHICLES AND STARSHIPS

ELEVATION STAR MAP
1 hex equals 50 lightyears

STAR MAP 167

Acknowledgements
First I would like to thank Clarence Redd and Frostbyte Books for taking a chance on
me and letting me bring Elevation to life. I would also like to thank Lawrence Whitaker
and Pete Nash of The Design Mechanism for allowing me into the Mythras family.

I also want to express my gratitude to Bill Yon and Dave Cunningham for all their help
in editing and their input on Elevation, and additionally Steve Burk and Rob Colondo
for their suggestions and support along the way.

Most of all I want to thank my fantastic wife Jenn for putting up with all my late nights
of writing and her support, love, and encouragement, and my amazing daughter Vic-
toria for helping to keep my imagination alive every day.

Finally, I would like to thank the early readers team for providing valuable insights:
Brian Ashford, Michael Beck, Rickard Falk, Robert Graves, Viktor Haag and Emilio Ser-
vidio.
GET THE PLAYER’S KIT FOR ELEVATION:
» Starseeker deck plans and starship sheet

» Setting background for players

» Player map of Farsight Station

» Pre-generated characters

FREE DOWNLOAD
https://bit.ly/2WZLVs1
 INTRODUCTORY SCENARIO FOR ELEVATION

A brilliant researcher is murdered on Farsight Station.

When the player characters investigate, nothing is quite like it seems.

Then, the real trouble starts.

FREE DOWNLOAD
https://bit.ly/2K9lkCH
 SCI-FI MYSTERY IN THE 1920s

‘The most innovative sci-fi I’ve seen ’

Alex Greene, writer for Traveller

‘Oh, shit. Haven’t read it from a to z, but i think i’m in love. Looks really neat! ’

Nils Hintze, Tales From The Loop

www.frostbytebooks.com/odd-soot