Menu
News
All News
Dungeons & Dragons
Level Up: Advanced 5th Edition
Pathfinder
Starfinder
Warhammer
2d20 System
Year Zero Engine
Industry News
Reviews
Dragon Reflections
White Dwarf Reflections
Columns
Weekly Digests
Weekly News Digest
Freebies, Sales & Bundles
RPG Print News
RPG Crowdfunding News
Game Content
ENterplanetary DimENsions
Mythological Figures
Opinion
Worlds of Design
Peregrine's Nest
RPG Evolution
Other Columns
From the Freelancing Frontline
Monster ENcyclopedia
WotC/TSR Alumni Look Back
4 Hours w/RSD (Ryan Dancey)
The Road to 3E (Jonathan Tweet)
Greenwood's Realms (Ed Greenwood)
Drawmij's TSR (Jim Ward)
Community
Forums & Topics
Forum List
Latest Posts
Forum list
*Dungeons & Dragons
Level Up: Advanced 5th Edition
D&D Older Editions, OSR, & D&D Variants
*TTRPGs General
*Pathfinder & Starfinder
EN Publishing
*Geek Talk & Media
Search forums
Chat/Discord
Resources
Wiki
Pages
Latest activity
Media
New media
New comments
Search media
Downloads
Latest reviews
Search resources
EN Publishing
Store
EN5ider
Adventures in ZEITGEIST
Awfully Cheerful Engine
What's OLD is NEW
Judge Dredd & The Worlds Of 2000AD
War of the Burning Sky
Level Up: Advanced 5E
Events & Releases
Upcoming Events
Private Events
Featured Events
Socials!
EN Publishing
Twitter
BlueSky
Facebook
Instagram
EN World
BlueSky
YouTube
Facebook
Twitter
Twitch
Podcast
Features
Million Dollar TTRPG Crowdfunders
Most Anticipated Tabletop RPGs Of The Year
Tabletop RPG Podcast Hall of Fame
Eric Noah's Unofficial D&D 3rd Edition News
Top 5 RPGs Compiled Charts 2004-Present
Adventure Game Industry Market Research Summary (RPGs) V1.0
Ryan Dancey: Acquiring TSR
Q&A With Gary Gygax
D&D Rules FAQs
TSR, WotC, & Paizo: A Comparative History
D&D Pronunciation Guide
D&D in the Mainstream
D&D & RPG History
About Morrus
Log in
Register
What's new
Search
Search
Search titles only
By:
Forums & Topics
Forum List
Latest Posts
Forum list
*Dungeons & Dragons
Level Up: Advanced 5th Edition
D&D Older Editions, OSR, & D&D Variants
*TTRPGs General
*Pathfinder & Starfinder
EN Publishing
*Geek Talk & Media
Search forums
Chat/Discord
Menu
Log in
Register
Install the app
Install
Upgrade your account to a Community Supporter account and remove most of the site ads.
Community
General Tabletop Discussion
*TTRPGs General
CORELINE (D20 Modern/D20 BESM Setting).
JavaScript is disabled. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding.
You are using an out of date browser. It may not display this or other websites correctly.
You should upgrade or use an
alternative browser
.
Reply to thread
Message
<blockquote data-quote="kronos182" data-source="post: 9821446" data-attributes="member: 6668634"><p>Here's an adventure within Federation space on behalf of the Federation/Starfleet if the PCs are members or in good standing.</p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>Mini-Adventure: “The Times That Weren’t”</strong></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>Mission Hook (United Federation of Planets / Starfleet)</strong></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">Starfleet Intelligence believes a mid-level planetary official on <strong>Valis Prime</strong> has engineered <strong>fake temporal anomalies</strong> to claim emergency temporal stabilization funding—and to manipulate elections by blaming “unstable timelines” for opponents’ failed projects. Temporal Affairs has found inconsistencies in his reports but cannot intervene openly without proof.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">The PCs are dispatched as <strong>Federation diplomatic observers</strong>, with authority to conduct a discreet investigation.</span></p><p> <span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>Adventure Summary</strong></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">The PCs must:</span></p><ol> <li data-xf-list-type="ol"><strong><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">Establish diplomatic presence and negotiate cooperation.</span></strong></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ol"><strong><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">Investigate falsified anomalies and gather physical evidence.</span></strong></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ol"><strong><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">Uncover a hidden device generating “temporal noise.”</span></strong></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ol"><strong><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">Expose the official or navigate the political fallout.</span></strong></li> </ol><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">Social interaction, diplomacy, investigation, and light danger.</span></p><p> <span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>Act I – Diplomatic Arrival</strong></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>Scene 1: Briefing</strong></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">The PCs are told:</span></p><ul> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">Do NOT mention accusations openly.</span></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">Maintain neutrality.</span></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">Primary suspect: <strong>Minister Jorlan Vesk</strong>, Head of Temporal Safety Bureau.</span></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">“Temporal anomalies” reported include minor object duplication, clocks desyncing, phantom sensor traces—none harmful but all politically convenient.</span></li> </ul><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>Scene 2: Arrival on Valis Prime</strong></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">The planet is bureaucratic and heavily time-obsessed.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">The PCs must gain cooperation at the <strong>Bureau of Temporal Safety</strong>.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>Skill Challenge – Gaining Access (Diplomacy DC 18 or Knowledge: Civics DC 15)</strong></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">Success: PCs receive visitor credentials, limited access.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">Failure: PCs face heavy red tape, delays, escorted surveillance (–2 on investigation checks until resolved).</span></p><p> <span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>Act II – The Investigation</strong></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>Clue Sites</strong></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">Below are 3 modular locations with skill checks and reveals.</span></p><p> <span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>1. Anomaly Site – Old Industrial District</strong></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">The place where most anomalies were reported.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>Findings:</strong></span></p><ul> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>Temporal residue is inconsistent</strong> with real temporal disturbances.<br /> <em>Physical Sciences DC 15</em>: “These readings look artificially induced.”<br /> <em>Computer Use DC 18</em>: Sensor logs have repeating digital noise.</span></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">Evidence of <strong>small, mobile power-source drag marks</strong> (Tracking DC 14). </span></li> </ul><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"> </span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>2. Minister Vesk’s Public Office</strong></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">The PCs cannot openly snoop, but a tour is allowed.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>Clues:</strong></span></p><ul> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">A <strong>restricted server room</strong> that contains classified anomaly data.<br /> <em>Bluff DC 18</em> or <em>Diplomacy DC 20</em>: gain extended tour.<br /> <em>Computer Use DC 20 (illegal)</em>: identify that logs were <strong>manually altered</strong>.</span></li> </ul><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>Complication:</strong></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">A loyal security assistant notices tampering; PCs must talk their way out.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">(Diplomacy DC 17 or Intimidate DC 14 to avoid detainment.)</span></p><p> <span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>3. The Lower Transit Tunnels</strong></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">A hidden network under the capital where unauthorized tech may be stored.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>Findings:</strong></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">A tripod-mounted <strong>Temporal Noise Induction Unit (TNIU)</strong>—a cobbled machine built from stolen Starfleet research fragments.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">When PCs approach:</span></p><ul> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">TNIU activates, causing <strong>temporal phase distortions</strong> (treat as light gravity and mild displacement effects). </span></li> </ul><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>Hazard: Temporal Fluctuation Zone</strong></span></p><ul> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">Every round, roll 1d6:<br /> 1–2: Attacker suffers –2 from double-image displacement<br /> 3–4: Small objects teleport 5 ft.; PCs must make Ref DC 12 to avoid tripping<br /> 5–6: Brief time lag: delay one action until end of next round </span></li> </ul><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">Shutting it down: </span></p><ul> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">Engineering or Physical Sciences DC 20; failure triggers a burst (1d6 force, Ref DC 14 half). </span></li> </ul><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"> </span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>Act III – Confrontation & Diplomacy</strong></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>Showdown with Minister Vesk</strong></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">Vesk confronts the PCs during or after discovering the device.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">He explains that: </span></p><ul> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">He “faked anomalies” because true anomalies would cause immediate emergency funding. </span></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">He rationalized it as “boosting preparedness.” </span></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">He also used results for political leverage. </span></li> </ul><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">Vesk is defensive but not violent.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>Diplomatic Resolution Options:</strong> </span></p><ol> <li data-xf-list-type="ol"><strong><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">Expose him through legal channels <ul> <li data-xf-list-type="ul">Diplomacy DC 18 to convince other officials. </span></strong></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><strong><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">Provide evidence from TNIU and falsified logs. </span></strong></li> </ul></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ol"><strong><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">Offer a quiet resignation deal <ul> <li data-xf-list-type="ul">Negotiation DC 16; Vesk steps down, minimizing political fallout. </span></strong></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><strong><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">PCs avoid scandal. </span></strong></li> </ul></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ol"><strong><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">Leverage him as an informant <ul> <li data-xf-list-type="ul">Bluff or Intimidate DC 18. </span></strong></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><strong><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">He reveals his supplier: a black-market tech broker (setup for next adventure).</span></strong></li> </ul></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ol"><strong><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">If PCs fail diplomatically <ul> <li data-xf-list-type="ul">Vesk tries to destroy evidence, triggers local security. </span></strong></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><strong><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">PCs may face chase/combat, or a legal trial scenario.</span></strong></li> </ul></li> </ol><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"> </span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>Adventure Rewards</strong></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>Mechanical Rewards</strong></span></p><ul> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">1,000–2,000 XP depending on investigation completeness.</span></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">Access to Federation political contacts.</span></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">Optional Starfleet commendation bonus (+2 Reputation). </span></li> </ul><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>Narrative Rewards</strong></span></p><ul> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">PCs prove reliable in delicate Federation diplomacy.</span></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">Opens arc about <strong>illegal future-tech black markets</strong>.</span></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">Sets up future missions involving Temporal Affairs or Section 31. </span></li> </ul><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"> </span></p><p> <span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>Minister Jorlan Vesk</strong></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>Corrupt Temporal Safety Bureau Official</strong></span></p><p> <span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>Lore & Background</strong></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>Jorlan Vesk</strong> is a mid-level but politically ambitious bureaucrat on <strong>Valis Prime</strong>, serving as the <strong>Minister of Temporal Safety & Continuity</strong>—a department charged with monitoring irregularities in local spacetime. Though not a true temporal scientist, Vesk is shrewd, charismatic, and deeply versed in the politics around time-research funding.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">In recent years, Vesk became frustrated that his department received minimal resources despite growing political pressure to “ensure temporal stability.” Elections on Valis Prime increasingly hinge on perceived technocratic competence, and Vesk feared being ousted.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">To maintain influence, he <strong>orchestrated falsified temporal anomalies</strong>, using black-market temporal components to build a <em>Temporal Noise Induction Unit</em> (TNIU). The artificial anomalies allowed him to:</span></p><ul> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">Request massive emergency funding.</span></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">Undermine political rivals by blaming “temporal instability” for infrastructure failures.</span></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">Promote himself as the only official capable of managing the crisis. </span></li> </ul><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">Despite his corruption, Vesk rationalizes his actions as “necessary political theater.” He fully believes that “real anomalies” will occur someday and that he’s merely preparing the world.</span></p><p> <span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>Personality</strong></span></p><ul> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>Cautiously ambitious</strong>, always hedging to protect his image.</span></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">Speaks with <strong>bureaucratic precision</strong> and avoids direct answers.</span></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">Genuinely cares about temporal safety, but his ego has overtaken his duty.</span></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">When cornered, he becomes defensive—but not violent unless forced. </span></li> </ul><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>Motivations:</strong></span></p><ul> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">Maintain status and influence.</span></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">Protect Valis Prime’s image as a “model technocracy.”</span></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">Avoid public embarrassment at all costs. </span></li> </ul><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>Weaknesses:</strong></span></p><ul> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">Overconfidence in his ability to manipulate data.</span></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">Deep fear of losing public trust.</span></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">A mistaken belief that ends justify the means.</span></li> </ul><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"> </span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>Minister Jorlan Vesk</strong></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>Minister Jorlan Vesk (CR 4)</strong></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">Male Human Smart Hero 4 / Charismatic Hero 2</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>Allegiance:</strong> Self, Valis Prime Government</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>Occupation:</strong> Academic (grants +1 Knowledge [Physical Sciences], +1 Research)</span></p><p> <span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>Ability Scores</strong></span></p><ul> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>STR</strong> 8 (–1)</span></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>DEX</strong> 10 (+0)</span></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>CON</strong> 11 (+0)</span></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>INT</strong> 16 (+3)</span></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>WIS</strong> 12 (+1)</span></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>CHA</strong> 15 (+2)</span></li> </ul><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"> </span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>Vitals</strong></span></p><ul> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>Hit Points:</strong> 28</span></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>Defense:</strong> 14 (10 base +2 class +2 Dex/Equipment or none depending on scene)</span></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>Initiative:</strong> +0 </span></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>Speed:</strong> 30 ft. </span></li> </ul><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"> </span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>Saving Throws</strong></span></p><ul> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>Fort +2</strong>, <strong>Ref +1</strong>, <strong>Will +5 </strong></span></li> </ul><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"> </span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>Skills (key ones)</strong></span></p><ul> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">Computer Use +12</span></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">Diplomacy +13</span></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">Bluff +11</span></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">Knowledge (Physical Sciences) +10</span></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">Knowledge (Civics) +11 </span></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">Research +12</span></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">Sense Motive +8</span></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">Gather Information +9</span></li> </ul><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>Feats</strong></span></p><ul> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>Educated <strong>(Physical Sciences, Civics)</strong></strong></span></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>Studious</strong></span></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>Trustworthy</strong> (+2 Diplomacy, Gather Information vs. bureaucrats)</span></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>Iron Will</strong></span></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>Personal Firearms Proficiency</strong> (rarely armed, but trained) </span></li> </ul><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"> </span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>Talents</strong></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>Smart Hero Talents</strong></span></p><ul> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><em>Research Savant</em>: +2 to Research checks</span></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><em>Linguist</em>: Knows multiple temporal science jargon dialects</span></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><em>Trick</em>: Gain +2 to Bluff once per encounter</span></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><em>Plan</em>: As full-round action, grants +1 bonus to allies’ next round skill checks if executed </span></li> </ul><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>Charismatic Hero Talents</strong></span></p><ul> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><em>Charm</em>: +3 to Charisma-based checks against political officials</span></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><em>Favor</em>: Call in a minor political or bureaucratic favor 1/day </span></li> </ul><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"> </span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>Typical Equipment</strong></span></p><ul> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">Bureaucratic Data-Pad (computer tool, +2 Computer Use in official systems)</span></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">Encrypted Commlink</span></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">Office-level digital access codes</span></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">Concealed holdout pistol (1d6 fire, 5 shots) – rarely carried</span></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">Holo-ledger with altered anomaly reports (key evidence) </span></li> </ul><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"> </span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>Tactics</strong></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">Minister Vesk <strong>does not fight</strong> unless absolutely forced.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">Instead, he:</span></p><ul> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">Uses <strong>Bluff</strong>, <strong>Diplomacy</strong>, and <strong>Charm</strong> to stall.</span></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">Calls security assists (Favor talent).</span></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">Attempts to <strong>destroy incriminating data</strong> if cornered.</span></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">Will try to make the PCs seem overreaching or politically biased. </span></li> </ul><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">If combat is unavoidable, he flees at half HP.</span></p><p> <span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>Encounter Notes</strong></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">When confronted with evidence:</span></p><ul> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>Diplomacy DC 18</strong> to get a confession.</span></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>Intimidate DC 17</strong> forces him to reveal the temporal device supplier.</span></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>Sense Motive DC 15</strong> reveals that he is extremely afraid of public scandal. </span></li> </ul><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">If PCs botch negotiations, he initiates a <strong>bureaucratic lockdown</strong>, sealing access to key areas and summoning guards.</span></p><p> <span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'"><strong>Adventure Integration</strong></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">Use Vesk as:</span></p><ul> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">A one-off villain in a light political mystery</span></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">A recurring bureaucratic foil in Federation diplomatic missions</span></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">A reluctant informant who knows about off-records temporal technology trade</span></li> <li data-xf-list-type="ul"><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">A disgraced official who later seeks redemption </span></li> </ul><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Calibri'">He works exceptionally well in campaigns mixing <em>Starfleet diplomacy</em> with <em>political maneuvering</em>.</span></p></blockquote><p></p>
[QUOTE="kronos182, post: 9821446, member: 6668634"] Here's an adventure within Federation space on behalf of the Federation/Starfleet if the PCs are members or in good standing. [FONT=Calibri][B]Mini-Adventure: “The Times That Weren’t” Mission Hook (United Federation of Planets / Starfleet)[/B] Starfleet Intelligence believes a mid-level planetary official on [B]Valis Prime[/B] has engineered [B]fake temporal anomalies[/B] to claim emergency temporal stabilization funding—and to manipulate elections by blaming “unstable timelines” for opponents’ failed projects. Temporal Affairs has found inconsistencies in his reports but cannot intervene openly without proof. The PCs are dispatched as [B]Federation diplomatic observers[/B], with authority to conduct a discreet investigation. [B]Adventure Summary[/B] The PCs must:[/FONT] [B][FONT=Calibri][LIST=1] [*]Establish diplomatic presence and negotiate cooperation. [*]Investigate falsified anomalies and gather physical evidence. [*]Uncover a hidden device generating “temporal noise.” [*]Expose the official or navigate the political fallout. [/LIST][/FONT][/B] [FONT=Calibri]Social interaction, diplomacy, investigation, and light danger. [B]Act I – Diplomatic Arrival Scene 1: Briefing[/B] The PCs are told:[/FONT] [LIST] [*][FONT=Calibri]Do NOT mention accusations openly.[/FONT] [*][FONT=Calibri]Maintain neutrality.[/FONT] [*][FONT=Calibri]Primary suspect: [B]Minister Jorlan Vesk[/B], Head of Temporal Safety Bureau.[/FONT] [*][FONT=Calibri]“Temporal anomalies” reported include minor object duplication, clocks desyncing, phantom sensor traces—none harmful but all politically convenient.[/FONT] [/LIST] [FONT=Calibri][B]Scene 2: Arrival on Valis Prime[/B] The planet is bureaucratic and heavily time-obsessed. The PCs must gain cooperation at the [B]Bureau of Temporal Safety[/B]. [B]Skill Challenge – Gaining Access (Diplomacy DC 18 or Knowledge: Civics DC 15)[/B] Success: PCs receive visitor credentials, limited access. Failure: PCs face heavy red tape, delays, escorted surveillance (–2 on investigation checks until resolved). [B]Act II – The Investigation Clue Sites[/B] Below are 3 modular locations with skill checks and reveals. [B]1. Anomaly Site – Old Industrial District[/B] The place where most anomalies were reported. [B]Findings:[/B][/FONT] [LIST] [*][FONT=Calibri][B]Temporal residue is inconsistent[/B] with real temporal disturbances. [I]Physical Sciences DC 15[/I]: “These readings look artificially induced.” [I]Computer Use DC 18[/I]: Sensor logs have repeating digital noise.[/FONT] [*][FONT=Calibri]Evidence of [B]small, mobile power-source drag marks[/B] (Tracking DC 14). [/FONT] [/LIST] [FONT=Calibri] [B]2. Minister Vesk’s Public Office[/B] The PCs cannot openly snoop, but a tour is allowed. [B]Clues:[/B][/FONT] [LIST] [*][FONT=Calibri]A [B]restricted server room[/B] that contains classified anomaly data. [I]Bluff DC 18[/I] or [I]Diplomacy DC 20[/I]: gain extended tour. [I]Computer Use DC 20 (illegal)[/I]: identify that logs were [B]manually altered[/B].[/FONT] [/LIST] [FONT=Calibri][B]Complication:[/B] A loyal security assistant notices tampering; PCs must talk their way out. (Diplomacy DC 17 or Intimidate DC 14 to avoid detainment.) [B]3. The Lower Transit Tunnels[/B] A hidden network under the capital where unauthorized tech may be stored. [B]Findings:[/B] A tripod-mounted [B]Temporal Noise Induction Unit (TNIU)[/B]—a cobbled machine built from stolen Starfleet research fragments. When PCs approach:[/FONT] [LIST] [*][FONT=Calibri]TNIU activates, causing [B]temporal phase distortions[/B] (treat as light gravity and mild displacement effects). [/FONT] [/LIST] [FONT=Calibri][B]Hazard: Temporal Fluctuation Zone[/B][/FONT] [LIST] [*][FONT=Calibri]Every round, roll 1d6: 1–2: Attacker suffers –2 from double-image displacement 3–4: Small objects teleport 5 ft.; PCs must make Ref DC 12 to avoid tripping 5–6: Brief time lag: delay one action until end of next round [/FONT] [/LIST] [FONT=Calibri]Shutting it down: [/FONT] [LIST] [*][FONT=Calibri]Engineering or Physical Sciences DC 20; failure triggers a burst (1d6 force, Ref DC 14 half). [/FONT] [/LIST] [FONT=Calibri] [B]Act III – Confrontation & Diplomacy Showdown with Minister Vesk[/B] Vesk confronts the PCs during or after discovering the device. He explains that: [/FONT] [LIST] [*][FONT=Calibri]He “faked anomalies” because true anomalies would cause immediate emergency funding. [/FONT] [*][FONT=Calibri]He rationalized it as “boosting preparedness.” [/FONT] [*][FONT=Calibri]He also used results for political leverage. [/FONT] [/LIST] [FONT=Calibri]Vesk is defensive but not violent. [B]Diplomatic Resolution Options:[/B] [/FONT] [B][FONT=Calibri][LIST=1] [*]Expose him through legal channels [LIST] [*]Diplomacy DC 18 to convince other officials. [*]Provide evidence from TNIU and falsified logs. [/LIST] [*]Offer a quiet resignation deal [LIST] [*]Negotiation DC 16; Vesk steps down, minimizing political fallout. [*]PCs avoid scandal. [/LIST] [*]Leverage him as an informant [LIST] [*]Bluff or Intimidate DC 18. [*]He reveals his supplier: a black-market tech broker (setup for next adventure). [/LIST] [*]If PCs fail diplomatically [LIST] [*]Vesk tries to destroy evidence, triggers local security. [*]PCs may face chase/combat, or a legal trial scenario. [/LIST] [/LIST][/FONT][/B] [FONT=Calibri] [B]Adventure Rewards Mechanical Rewards[/B][/FONT] [LIST] [*][FONT=Calibri]1,000–2,000 XP depending on investigation completeness.[/FONT] [*][FONT=Calibri]Access to Federation political contacts.[/FONT] [*][FONT=Calibri]Optional Starfleet commendation bonus (+2 Reputation). [/FONT] [/LIST] [FONT=Calibri][B]Narrative Rewards[/B][/FONT] [LIST] [*][FONT=Calibri]PCs prove reliable in delicate Federation diplomacy.[/FONT] [*][FONT=Calibri]Opens arc about [B]illegal future-tech black markets[/B].[/FONT] [*][FONT=Calibri]Sets up future missions involving Temporal Affairs or Section 31. [/FONT] [/LIST] [FONT=Calibri] [B]Minister Jorlan Vesk Corrupt Temporal Safety Bureau Official[/B] [B]Lore & Background Jorlan Vesk[/B] is a mid-level but politically ambitious bureaucrat on [B]Valis Prime[/B], serving as the [B]Minister of Temporal Safety & Continuity[/B]—a department charged with monitoring irregularities in local spacetime. Though not a true temporal scientist, Vesk is shrewd, charismatic, and deeply versed in the politics around time-research funding. In recent years, Vesk became frustrated that his department received minimal resources despite growing political pressure to “ensure temporal stability.” Elections on Valis Prime increasingly hinge on perceived technocratic competence, and Vesk feared being ousted. To maintain influence, he [B]orchestrated falsified temporal anomalies[/B], using black-market temporal components to build a [I]Temporal Noise Induction Unit[/I] (TNIU). The artificial anomalies allowed him to:[/FONT] [LIST] [*][FONT=Calibri]Request massive emergency funding.[/FONT] [*][FONT=Calibri]Undermine political rivals by blaming “temporal instability” for infrastructure failures.[/FONT] [*][FONT=Calibri]Promote himself as the only official capable of managing the crisis. [/FONT] [/LIST] [FONT=Calibri]Despite his corruption, Vesk rationalizes his actions as “necessary political theater.” He fully believes that “real anomalies” will occur someday and that he’s merely preparing the world. [B]Personality[/B][/FONT] [LIST] [*][FONT=Calibri][B]Cautiously ambitious[/B], always hedging to protect his image.[/FONT] [*][FONT=Calibri]Speaks with [B]bureaucratic precision[/B] and avoids direct answers.[/FONT] [*][FONT=Calibri]Genuinely cares about temporal safety, but his ego has overtaken his duty.[/FONT] [*][FONT=Calibri]When cornered, he becomes defensive—but not violent unless forced. [/FONT] [/LIST] [FONT=Calibri][B]Motivations:[/B][/FONT] [LIST] [*][FONT=Calibri]Maintain status and influence.[/FONT] [*][FONT=Calibri]Protect Valis Prime’s image as a “model technocracy.”[/FONT] [*][FONT=Calibri]Avoid public embarrassment at all costs. [/FONT] [/LIST] [FONT=Calibri][B]Weaknesses:[/B][/FONT] [LIST] [*][FONT=Calibri]Overconfidence in his ability to manipulate data.[/FONT] [*][FONT=Calibri]Deep fear of losing public trust.[/FONT] [*][FONT=Calibri]A mistaken belief that ends justify the means.[/FONT] [/LIST] [FONT=Calibri] [B]Minister Jorlan Vesk Minister Jorlan Vesk (CR 4)[/B] Male Human Smart Hero 4 / Charismatic Hero 2 [B]Allegiance:[/B] Self, Valis Prime Government [B]Occupation:[/B] Academic (grants +1 Knowledge [Physical Sciences], +1 Research) [B]Ability Scores[/B][/FONT] [LIST] [*][FONT=Calibri][B]STR[/B] 8 (–1)[/FONT] [*][FONT=Calibri][B]DEX[/B] 10 (+0)[/FONT] [*][FONT=Calibri][B]CON[/B] 11 (+0)[/FONT] [*][FONT=Calibri][B]INT[/B] 16 (+3)[/FONT] [*][FONT=Calibri][B]WIS[/B] 12 (+1)[/FONT] [*][FONT=Calibri][B]CHA[/B] 15 (+2)[/FONT] [/LIST] [FONT=Calibri] [B]Vitals[/B][/FONT] [LIST] [*][FONT=Calibri][B]Hit Points:[/B] 28[/FONT] [*][FONT=Calibri][B]Defense:[/B] 14 (10 base +2 class +2 Dex/Equipment or none depending on scene)[/FONT] [*][FONT=Calibri][B]Initiative:[/B] +0 [/FONT] [*][FONT=Calibri][B]Speed:[/B] 30 ft. [/FONT] [/LIST] [FONT=Calibri] [B]Saving Throws[/B][/FONT] [LIST] [*][FONT=Calibri][B]Fort +2[/B], [B]Ref +1[/B], [B]Will +5 [/B][/FONT] [/LIST] [FONT=Calibri] [B]Skills (key ones)[/B][/FONT] [LIST] [*][FONT=Calibri]Computer Use +12[/FONT] [*][FONT=Calibri]Diplomacy +13[/FONT] [*][FONT=Calibri]Bluff +11[/FONT] [*][FONT=Calibri]Knowledge (Physical Sciences) +10[/FONT] [*][FONT=Calibri]Knowledge (Civics) +11 [/FONT] [*][FONT=Calibri]Research +12[/FONT] [*][FONT=Calibri]Sense Motive +8[/FONT] [*][FONT=Calibri]Gather Information +9[/FONT] [/LIST] [FONT=Calibri] [B]Feats[/B][/FONT] [LIST] [*][FONT=Calibri][B]Educated [B](Physical Sciences, Civics)[/B][/B][/FONT] [*][FONT=Calibri][B]Studious[/B][/FONT] [*][FONT=Calibri][B]Trustworthy[/B] (+2 Diplomacy, Gather Information vs. bureaucrats)[/FONT] [*][FONT=Calibri][B]Iron Will[/B][/FONT] [*][FONT=Calibri][B]Personal Firearms Proficiency[/B] (rarely armed, but trained) [/FONT] [/LIST] [FONT=Calibri] [B]Talents Smart Hero Talents[/B][/FONT] [LIST] [*][FONT=Calibri][I]Research Savant[/I]: +2 to Research checks[/FONT] [*][FONT=Calibri][I]Linguist[/I]: Knows multiple temporal science jargon dialects[/FONT] [*][FONT=Calibri][I]Trick[/I]: Gain +2 to Bluff once per encounter[/FONT] [*][FONT=Calibri][I]Plan[/I]: As full-round action, grants +1 bonus to allies’ next round skill checks if executed [/FONT] [/LIST] [FONT=Calibri][B]Charismatic Hero Talents[/B][/FONT] [LIST] [*][FONT=Calibri][I]Charm[/I]: +3 to Charisma-based checks against political officials[/FONT] [*][FONT=Calibri][I]Favor[/I]: Call in a minor political or bureaucratic favor 1/day [/FONT] [/LIST] [FONT=Calibri] [B]Typical Equipment[/B][/FONT] [LIST] [*][FONT=Calibri]Bureaucratic Data-Pad (computer tool, +2 Computer Use in official systems)[/FONT] [*][FONT=Calibri]Encrypted Commlink[/FONT] [*][FONT=Calibri]Office-level digital access codes[/FONT] [*][FONT=Calibri]Concealed holdout pistol (1d6 fire, 5 shots) – rarely carried[/FONT] [*][FONT=Calibri]Holo-ledger with altered anomaly reports (key evidence) [/FONT] [/LIST] [FONT=Calibri] [B]Tactics[/B] Minister Vesk [B]does not fight[/B] unless absolutely forced. Instead, he:[/FONT] [LIST] [*][FONT=Calibri]Uses [B]Bluff[/B], [B]Diplomacy[/B], and [B]Charm[/B] to stall.[/FONT] [*][FONT=Calibri]Calls security assists (Favor talent).[/FONT] [*][FONT=Calibri]Attempts to [B]destroy incriminating data[/B] if cornered.[/FONT] [*][FONT=Calibri]Will try to make the PCs seem overreaching or politically biased. [/FONT] [/LIST] [FONT=Calibri]If combat is unavoidable, he flees at half HP. [B]Encounter Notes[/B] When confronted with evidence:[/FONT] [LIST] [*][FONT=Calibri][B]Diplomacy DC 18[/B] to get a confession.[/FONT] [*][FONT=Calibri][B]Intimidate DC 17[/B] forces him to reveal the temporal device supplier.[/FONT] [*][FONT=Calibri][B]Sense Motive DC 15[/B] reveals that he is extremely afraid of public scandal. [/FONT] [/LIST] [FONT=Calibri]If PCs botch negotiations, he initiates a [B]bureaucratic lockdown[/B], sealing access to key areas and summoning guards. [B]Adventure Integration[/B] Use Vesk as:[/FONT] [LIST] [*][FONT=Calibri]A one-off villain in a light political mystery[/FONT] [*][FONT=Calibri]A recurring bureaucratic foil in Federation diplomatic missions[/FONT] [*][FONT=Calibri]A reluctant informant who knows about off-records temporal technology trade[/FONT] [*][FONT=Calibri]A disgraced official who later seeks redemption [/FONT] [/LIST] [FONT=Calibri]He works exceptionally well in campaigns mixing [I]Starfleet diplomacy[/I] with [I]political maneuvering[/I].[/FONT] [/QUOTE]
Insert quotes…
Verification
Post reply
Community
General Tabletop Discussion
*TTRPGs General
CORELINE (D20 Modern/D20 BESM Setting).
Top
