Q U I C K S T A R T E R

A VOICE IN
THE VOID
 CREDITS

Authors: Dario Pesce, Francesco Dino Lucenti

Creative director: Dario Pesce

Graphic Designers: Riccardo Rumor, Dario Pesce, with Fabio Mialich

Editing and proofreading: Dario Pesce, Sergio Gambillara

English version: Aurora Torchia, Dario Pesce

Cover illustrator: Dmitriy Kuzin

Interior illustrators
Biagio D’Alessandro, Christopher Balaskas, Dmitriy Kuzin,
Giulia Nuccetelli, K. P. Uecker, Lorenz Hideyoshi Ruwwe,
Michael Kvac, Miguel Lázaro Bernuy, Roman Avseenko, Vincentius Matthew

Playtesters
Alberto Catellani, Alberto “Doc” Franceschetto, Alessandro Parravicini,
Alessandro Sganga, Alessio Spirandelli, Andrea Debenedetti, Andrea Dall’Armi,
Daniele Eramo, Daniele Fabiano, Dario Pesce, Diego Vignolo, Fabio Artioli, Fabio Marchetti,
Francesco Dino Lucenti, Gianluca Simionato, Giuseppe Piromalli, Guglielmo Sudati, Konrad Chiara,
Leonardo Amati, Luca Baroni, Luca Carbone, Luca “Maledice” Lanara , Luca Perlo, Luisa Castellani,
Matteo Barbieri and all the AL Venezia friends, Mattia Bembo, Max Rambaldi, Nicola Simionato,
Nicoletta Freccero, Paolo Barberis, Paolo Santin, Piergiorgio Lucenti, Riccardo Rumor,
Sergio Gambillara, Simone Matteuzzi, Tiziana Mozzillo, Tommaso Piva

We also want to thank all the members of the “Farsight RPG playtest” group on our FB page, and all the intrepid
playtesters who sat at our tables during the long succession of conventions and events that have marked the
development of this project. Finally, a special thanks goes to the great Michele Bonelli di Salci.

First version: October 2019 (This version includes correction)

© Copyright 2020 Lightfish Games, LIGHTFISH GAMES and its logo, FARSIGHT RPG and its logo, 5E EVOLVED and its logo, and all Lightfish Games product
names, and their respective logos are copyright of Lightfish Games. All characters and their distinctive likenesses are property of Lightfish Games.
Any reproduction or unauthorized use of the material or artwork contained herein is prohibited without the express written permission of the authors.
This publication is a work of fiction, any reference to people (living or dead), entities, organizations, events or places is purely coincidental.

Product Identity: The following items are hereby identified as Product Identity, as defined in the Open Game License version 1.0a, Section 1(e),
and are not Open Content: All trademarks, registered trademarks, proper names (characters, place names, etc.), new rules, races, classes, items,
backgrounds, storylines, story elements, events, places, characters, artwork, sidebars, and trade dress.

Open Game Content: The Open content in this book includes material taken from the System Reference Document, provided by Wizards of the Coast, Inc.
No other portion of this work may be reproduced in any form without the express written permission of the authors.
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION 4
What’s a role-playing game? 4
How to get started 4

CHAPTER 1: THE RULES 6

The basics 6
Ability checks 8
Exploration 14
Social interaction 17
Combat 18
Conditions 28
Resting and healing 30
Psionic powers 31
EDGE Cards 33

CHAPTER 2: THE CHARACTERS 34

Gyran Atrevius 34
Jorag Kosh 36
Mikaya “Mike” Mahanvari 38
Niada “Nia” Var Axanni 40
Tix Gabil Kes Dahal 42
Rasya V’Nadi 44
Tolan 47

CHAPTER 3: A VOICE IN THE VOID 50

Preamble 50
First Act 54
Second Act 64
Third Act 73
Epilogues 78

APPENDIX A: CHARACTERS’ SHEETS 80

APPENDIX B: GM’S RESOURCES 95

Allies and foes 95
Maps 103
EDGE Cards 106
 INTRODUCTION
Welcome to the quickstarter of FARSIGHT RPG a science fiction
“pen and paper” role-playing game based on the 5E Evolved rules.
What you are holding is an introductory guide: a quick
set of rules and an adventure designed to introduce you to
FARSIGHT RPG and immerse yourself in its futuristic atmospheres
in a flash. It includes everything you need to start playing right
away, starting with the basic rules and the adventure we
mentioned, up to a series of premade characters ready to be used.
This game is designed to adapt to any science fiction setting,
from those taken from the books, movies and games you love, to
those entirely born from your imagination. However, for the purposes
of this quickstarter, we had to make some choices for you.
In particular, the adventure you will play takes place within a
space-opera setting that we have called “Chronicles of the Edge”,
which we hope will be the first official setting of FARSIGHT RPG.
But first, this introduction will give you an overview of the
game and the contents of this booklet.
WHAT’S A ROLE-PLAYING GAME?
If you don’t already know what a role-playing game (abbreviated
to RPG) is, or if you need to explain it to some friends, here you
will find the information you need.
In a role-playing game, the participants take on the role
of the protagonists of a fictional story created step by step by
themselves, using their imagination. It’s a bit like in the game of
“make-believe” you play as a child, but unlike the latter, an RPG
provides rules for determining the consequences of any actions.
The dice rolled by the players will determine whether their
actions will be successful or not. Anything is possible, but dice
make some outcomes more likely than others.
In this game, however, one player takes on the role of Game
Master (GM), the game’s main storyteller and referee, while
each of the other players plays a character (PG) and together
these characters will form a team. Since each character is unique
and different from the others, with their own strengths and
weaknesses, the best team will be the one in which the characters
complement each other, covering up the lacks of their companions
and cooperating for the success of the group.
During the adventures, the stories lived by the characters, the
GM describes from time to time the situation and the environment
in which they find themselves, while the players decide their
actions, with the GM to establish the outcome and narrate the
consequences. Since the GM will have to be ready to improvise
to react to anything the players attempt, the role-playing game
is always dynamic and adaptable, exciting and full of surprises.
Finally, when an adventure comes to an end, another can begin,
forming a broader story called the campaign, but this is beyond
the scope of this introductory guide.
There’s no winning or losing in a role-playing game. The goal is
to create a compelling story together. Sometimes, a character may
meet a premature end, killed by a beast or an opponent, and the
group may even fail to complete the adventure they embarked
on, but if everyone had fun and created a memorable story, they
won all together.
4 INTRODUCTION
HOW TO GET STARTED
If this is your first time playing FARSIGHT RPG, start by reading
this introduction in its entirety; it will give you a general idea
of the basics of the game and the contents of this manual.
This introductory set is broken down into three main parts:
Chapter 1 contains a condensed guide to the FARSIGHT RPG
rules. Chapter 2 presents and describes a set of seven premade
characters intended for players. Chapter 3 instead contains
the introductory adventure “A Voice in the Void”.
Finally, the Appendixes include a series of materials useful for
playing, such as character sheets, opponent statistics, maps and
other useful aids for the GM.
WHAT YOU NEED TO PLAY
To play FARSIGHT RPG you will need at least three people,
although the ideal would be four or five. One of those present
will be the Game Master and the others will be the players.
You will need to have at least one copy of this manual,
photocopies of the premade characters sheets, pencils and
paper or, if you prefer, any other electronic means of recording
information at the table. You will also need some polyhedral
dice (see below).
GAME DICE
This game uses various types of polyhedral dice, which means
that they have a different number of sides: the twelve-sided dice,
indicated as d12, the ten-sided dice, or d10, the eight-sided dice,
d8, the common six-sided dice, d6, and the four-sided dice, d4.
To play you will need three or four dice of each type.
The same letter “d” also appears in the expressions d5, d3
and d2. To simulate the rolls of 1d5 or 1d3, roll a d10 and a
d6 respectively and divide the result by 2 (rounding it up).
Otherwise, to simulate 1d2, you can roll any die assigning
1 to odd results and 2 to even results.
Sometimes you will need to make a roll generating a number
between 1 and 100, called a percentile dice or d100. To do this,
just roll two ten-sided dice (which are numbered from 0 to 9).
One die (specified before rolling) gives the tens digit and the
other gives the units digit. If you roll a 7 and a 1, for example,
the result will be 71. Two 0s represent 100.
When rolling dice, the rules tell you the amount and type
of dice to roll, as well as the modifier to add. For example,
“3d10 + 5” means you need to roll three ten-sided dice, add
them up, and add 5 to the total.

BEFORE PLAYING
Before the group gathers to play, the Game Master should read
this quickstarter in its entirety and print a copy of the sheet of
each of the premade characters presented in Chapter 2 (the sheets
are found in Appendix A and are free to photocopy).
If you are going to play your first game as a GM, remember that
you don’t need to memorize everything at once, but you just need
to know where to quickly find the rules you need while playing.
After that, familiarize yourself with the adventure and you will
be ready to gather your friends and play.
Other players should instead read Chapter 1 which contains
the game rules, and Chapter 2 which presents and describes
the premade characters. On the contrary, they should not
read Chapter 3 which contains the adventure “A Voice in the
Void”. Each player will then choose a character from the seven
options included, and it will be up to each of them to bring these
characters to life during the adventure.
HOW TO PLAY
In general, a game of FARSIGHT RPG follows this basic course.
1. The Game Master describes the environment. The GM
describes to the players the situation and environment
their characters are in, exposing the basic options that are
presented to them (who and what is nearby, how many doors
lead out of the room, and so on).
2. The players describe what they want to do. Sometimes
one player speaks for the whole party, saying “Let’s take the
corridor to the north”, for example. Other times the characters
will act individually: one of them might examine a computer,
while another studies the lock of a door and a third keeps
watch for threats. After listening to them, the GM will decide
how to resolve all their actions.
GAME EXAMPLE
Game Master (GM): After docking your shuttle to one of the battered
hatch of the drifting vessel, the hatch opens with a loud metallic screech.
You take your first steps inside the wreck and find yourself in a large
hangar occupied by the carcasses of some time-corroded shuttles.
You notice a couple of doors on the right wall and a larger one on
the one in front of you. Your docking must have activated the auxiliary
generators because the environment is dimly lit by some flickering
emergency lights. The knurled metal floor is dotted here and there with
what appears to be bones.
Ellen (playing Zyva): Bones? I want to get closer to examine them
better. I would like to understand what species they belonged to.
Max (playing John): Are the doors sealed? I would like to check if it is
possible to open them.
GM: Ok, one at a time. Ellen, you’re looking at the bones, right?
Ellen: Yes! I’d like to figure out if they’re human bones, or some other
known species.
GM: Make an Intelligence check.
Ellen: Does my Inspection skill apply?
GM: Sure!
Ellen (rolls 2d12): Ugh. Ten.
GM: Well it’s pretty hard to tell, since the remains are extremely
deteriorated. You are pretty sure they are humanoid bones, but other
than that you have no other certainty.
Sometimes resolving a task is easy. If a character wants to
open a door, the GM might just say that it opens and describe
what lies behind. Other times, however, completing the action
may prove more difficult (perhaps the door is closed
or protected by a hidden trap). In those cases, the GM decides
what happens, often relying on a dice roll to determine the
outcome of the action.
3. The GM narrates the results of the character’s actions. The
description of the results often leads to another decision point,
which brings the flow of the game right back to step 1.
This procedure holds whether the characters are exploring
a ruin, dealing with a merchant, or fighting an alien creature.
In certain situations, especially in combat, the action is more
structured and the players (and GM) do take turns, but in
most cases the game is fluid and flexible and adapts to the
circumstances of the adventure.
Often an adventure takes place in the imagination of the players
and the GM, relying on the latter’s verbal descriptions to set the
scene. Some GMs like to use music, illustrations or sound effects
to help set the mood. Sometimes the GM might also lay out a map
and use tokens or miniatures to represent each creature involved
in a scene to help players visualize where everyone is.
INTRODUCTION 5
 CHAPTER 1: THE RULES
This chapter contains all the essential rules for playing this
introductory set of FARSIGHT RPG, functional to running the
adventure “A Voice in the Void” presented in Chapter 3.
We recommend to read this chapter in its entirety before
delving into the rest of this quickstarter.
THE BASICS
This section provides an overview of the game mechanics, the
general character statistics and the terms you will encounter most
often during the game. The following sections of this chapter deal
with the game rules in more detail.
ABILITIES
Each character or creature in the game has seven abilities that
affect most of what thay do.
• Combativity (CMB) represents the aptitude for combat, the
ability to exploit one’s physical and tactical skills to prevail
in clashes.
• Strength (STR) represents muscular strength, prowess and
physical endurance, the ability to make great efforts and to
exploit one’s athletic skills.
• Dexterity (DEX) represents agility, speed and ease of
movement, coordination and motor precision, sense of balance
and quick reflexes.
• Perception (PER) represents acuity of the senses, attention
to detail, spirit of observation, as well as general awareness
of the surrounding environment.
• Intelligence (INT) represents acumen, inventiveness,
insight, analytical skills, reason and learning, memory
and mental clarity.
• Will (WIL) represents the strength of personality,
self-confidence, self-control, determination, temperament
as well as social and interpersonal skills.
• Tech (TEC) represents the technological affinity and technical
preparation, the ability to use, understand and interface with
machinery and technological devices.
Each ability is represented by a score, a numerical value that
describes both the innate gifts and the aptitude for activities
related to that ability. The higher the score, the more one excels
in that ability, with scores of 1 representing the common human
average. The ability scores are the foundation of the game rules.
6 CHAPTER 1: THE RULES
ABILITY CHECKS
When your character wants to do something which outcome is
uncertain (like hitting an enemy or jumping over a chasm) the
GM will ask you to make an ability check, that is a dice roll to
determine if the action is successful or not.
In these cases, you roll two twelve-sided dice (2d12), add
their results together, and add the appropriate ability score,
as indicated below.
ABILITY CHECK = 2D12 + ABILITY SCORE
Often you will also have to apply other modifiers to the check.
The most common are the ones given by skills – particular
proficiencies possessed by the characters (see below).
If the total is equal to or higher than the target number,
called the Difficulty Class (DC), the ability check is successful,
otherwise it fails. The GM determines the DCs and tells the
players whether their rolls were successful or not. However, if one
or both of the dice of an ability check result in a 1 or 12, you may
have obtained a special result (see the “Ability checks” section).
This simple rule governs the resolution of almost all actions
in the game.
SKILLS
Skills are more specific proficiencies included in the broader
scope of action represented by each skill. For example, if Dexterity
indicates how agile you are in general, the Stealth skill represents
a particular mastery in acting without being detected. In terms
of gameplay, when a character possesses a skill, he gains a bonus
on the ability checks to which it applies.
ADVANTAGE AND DISADVANTAGE
A Sometimes an ability check is modified by special situations
called advantages and disadvantages. An advantage reflects
circumstances favorable to the success of the check, while
a disadvantage is the exact opposite.
When you have either advantage or disadvantage, roll an
additional d12 when you make the roll. If you have advantage
you keep the two best results, discarding the worst of the three.
On the contrary, if you have disadvantage you must do exactly the
opposite, keeping the two lowest results and discarding the best.
For example, let’s say you roll 3, 5 and 9: if you have advantage,
you keep the 5 and 9 and the total result of the roll will be 14;
if you have disadvantage, you keep the 3 and 5 and consequently
the total will be 8.
Detailed rules for advantage and disadvantage are described
in the “Ability Checks” section.
DERIVED STATISTICS
Some other basic values of characters and creatures are directly
related to their ability scores. The most important of these are
vitality points, death threshold, defense, initiative, and carrying
capacity. The function of each of these statistics is explored
further in this chapter.
SPECIES AND BACKGROUND
Each character belongs to a species and has a background that
outlines their origins, the education they have received and the
activity they have carried out throughout their life.
Species and background help define the identity of the
character but also provide game benefits (such as ability
increases, specific traits, skills, etc.).
When needed, a detailed description of the traits provided by
species and background is found in Chapter 2, along with other
special character rules.
CLASS
Class is the main definition of a character and represents the
archetype on which its development is based.
In FARSIGHT RPG there are three classes, deliberately designed
to frame what are the main skills and tactics of the characters,
while leaving complete freedom of customization. For this
reason, the three classes do not have a specific name but are each
indicated by a letter of the Greek alphabet: the combat-oriented
Delta, the skilled and versatile Sigma and the psionic wielder Psi.
Each class grants the character special features, some common
to all class members, called class features, and others specific,
called talents.
When needed, a detailed description of these features is found
in Chapter 2, along with other special character rules.
LEVEL
Usually a character starts at 1st level. The premade characters
featured in this introductory set are 5th level, making them
adventurers with good experience behind them.
PERSONALITY
Each of the premade characters displays on their sheet some
personality traits: short phrases or keywords that help you
role-playing them. These traits are the disposition (i.e. the
main compass that guides the character’s decisions, between
Order, Chaos, Community, Impulse, Individuality and Reason),
peculiarities (mannerisms or oddities), ideals (what the character
believes in), bonds (people or things they cares about) and the
flaws that could penalize them.
EQUIPMENT
The premade characters presented in this introductory set are
all equipped with the gear they need to face the challenges and
dangers of the adventure, including weapons, armor, tools and
various equipment.
When needed, a detailed description of the various items in
the equipment is found in Chapter 2, along with other special
character rules.
GENERAL CRITERIA
Lastly, always keep in mind the two general rules described below.
SPECIFIC BEATS GENERIC
Many specific rules described in this book, such as species traits,
class features, and other game elements, break the general rules,
creating exceptions to them. Remember this: if a specific rule
contradicts a general rule, the specific rule wins.
Exceptions to the rules are often minor. For example, many
adventurers don’t have radiation resistance, but every kergan
does because of a species trait. That trait thus creates a small
exception in the game. Other “rule-breaking” examples are more
evident. For example, an adventurer cannot normally teleport, but
some psionic powers make it possible. Psionic powers account for
many of the major exceptions to the rules.
ROUND DOWN
The last general rule to take into account is the following: during
the game, every time you divide a number and get a fraction,
always round it down, unless the rules expressly indicate otherwise.
CHAPTER 1: THE RULES 7
 ABILITY CHECKS TYPES OF CHECKS
An ability check represents a character’s or creature’s attempt In the simplest (and most common) case, an ability check
to pass a challenge. Most of the actions taken by characters do determines whether or not a character succeeds in a task.
not require any check. The GM only requires an ability check However, certain circumstances or applications require some
when the outcome is uncertain and when success or failure has specific rules, as described below.
important implications, such as in situations of danger or stress. Remember, if a rule refers generically to “ability checks,” it
For every ability check, the GM decides which of the seven means it includes any type of check, including attack rolls and
abilities is relevant to the task undertaken. To make an ability saving throws.
check roll 2d12, add their results together, add the appropriate
ability score and apply any relevant bonuses or penalties. OPPOSED CHECKS (CONTESTS)
The most frequently applied bonus comes from the character’s Sometimes one character’s or creature’s efforts are directly
skills (see below). opposed to another’s. This can occur when both of them are trying
to do the same thing but only one can succeed or when one of
CHECK RESULT = 2D12 + ABILITY SCORE + SKILL BONUS + them is trying to prevent the other from accomplishing a goal.
RELEVANT MODIFIERS In these cases, both contenders perform an ability check
appropriate to their efforts, but instead of comparing the results
In most cases the GM compares the result of an ability check to a DC, they compare the results of their two checks. Whoever
with a Difficulty Class (DC). Normally, the DC is set by the GM gets the highest result wins the contest. If the contest results in
or specified by the rules. The more difficult a task, the higher its a tie, the GM decides what happens based on the circumstances:
DC. If the result of the check is equal to or higher than the DC, the situation may remain the same, both tests may fail, or minor
the check is successful. Otherwise, it’s a failure. effects may occur.
Depending on the circumstances, failing an ability check does
not necessarily mean that the action taken is not completed, but PASSIVE CHECKS
it can mean that things do not go as expected: maybe you don’t A passive check is a particular kind of ability check that doesn’t
get the desired results or you suffer some setback or hitch decided involve any die roll. It can be used by the GM to determine if
by the GM (see “Try again”, further on). characters succeed in something without actively attempting it,
Other times, a check does not contemplate failure or success, such as noticing a hidden enemy without suspecting its presence.
but its result simply represents the quality of the obtained The total of a passive check is called score and it’s equal to 12
Outcome. The higher the result, the more significant effects + appropriate ability score + any modifiers that would apply to a
the test will have. normal check. Add 3 to the total if the check has advantage, or
The Typical Values for DC and Outcomes table shows the most subtract 3 if it has disadvantage.
common values and their meaning both in terms of Difficulty Class
and Outcomes. ATTACK ROLL
An attack roll is a special ability check you make when you
try to hit an opponent or object with an attack. Normally, the
TYPICAL VALUES FOR DC AND OUTCOMES appropriate skills for the type of weapon or effect used is applied
Value Difficulty Class Outcome to attack rolls. For more information, see “Combat”, further
5 Insignificant Terrible on in this chapter.
7 Trivial Poor or misleading
10 Easy Mediocre or irrelevant SAVING THROW
13 Normal Ordinary A saving throw (ST) is a particular ability check made to resist
17 Moderate Decent or avoid harmful effects such as poisons, diseases, traps, psionic
21 Challenging Good effects, explosions, and the like. You don’t normally decide to
25 Hard Great make a saving throw, the GM will ask you to make it. The ability
and skill required by the ST and its DC depend on the effect that
28 Formidable Excellent
causes it, which also determines what happens when the ST
31 Prodigious Astounding
succeeds or fails.

8 CHAPTER 1: THE RULES

BONUSES AND PENALTIES
Some game elements may apply bonuses or penalties to ability
checks. For example, wearing armor implies a penalty to some
ability checks due to the impediment to the movements it causes.
This penalty remains as long as the armor is worn but will
disappear when it is removed.
ADVANTAGE AND DISADVANTAGE
Sometimes characters may find themselves in a situation that
benefits them while performing a particular action. Other times,
adverse circumstances can instead put them at a disadvantage.
When the rules say you have advantage or disadvantage
on an ability check, you must roll 3d12 instead of the normal
2d12. If you have advantage, you discard the die that rolled the
lowest result and keep the other two. Conversely, if you have
disadvantage, you must discard the die with the highest result.
For example, let’s say you roll 3d12 and get 3, 5 and 9: if you have
advantage, you keep the 5 and 9 and the total result of the roll
will be 14; if you have disadvantage, you keep the 3 and 5 and
consequently the total will be 8.
If multiple sources of advantage and disadvantage apply to a
roll, the condition supported by more sources will prevail. In case
of a tie, the check will have neither advantage nor disadvantage.
For example, if two factors guarantee advantage and one imposes
disadvantage, the advantage condition prevails. Even when
multiple factors grant advantage or impose disadvantage,
only one additional d12 is rolled.
Usually, characters gain advantage through special abilities or
other privileges, or through certain actions in combat. The GM can
also decide that circumstances influence a roll in one direction or
the other and grant advantage or impose disadvantage as a result.
In addition, many conditions that can affect characters (see
“Conditions”, further on) impose disadvantage and/or grant
advantage to their opponents.
SPECIAL RESULTS
Sometimes fate plays strange tricks, causing exploits or setbacks
to occur. This happens if you roll a 12 or 1 on one of the dice when
making an ability check.
These exceptional cases generate special effects and follow the
rules described below.
ROLLING A 12
If you roll a 12 and the check is successful, fate favors you and
you manage to perform an exploit which “intensity” depends on
the result of the other die (the one that did not roll a 12): consult
the Exploits table and choose one corresponding to a rank equal
to or less than the result of the second die.
Alternatively, you can also invent new exploits, perhaps more
suited to the circumstances of the moment, but in this case the
GM will have the last word on what you propose.
Otherwise, if the check fails, rolling a 12 does not generate
any exploits, but the GM still could give less serious consequences
to the failure than expected.
Remember, you should always narrate in great detail your
character’s exploits.
ROLLING A 1
When you roll a 1 it’s never a good sign. If the check fails, the
GM can get in the way and complicate the situation by causing a
setback to happen. If the check is successful despite the probably
low total result, usually nothing really deleterious happens but
the GM could still decide to insert some minor setback, something
like “you succeed, but...”.
It is up to the GM to establish a setback appropriate to the
situation, choosing from those listed in the Setbacks table, or
taking them as an example to invent new ones, perhaps more
suited to the circumstances of the moment.
DOUBLE SPECIAL RESULTS
Although rarely, an ability check roll can generate two special
results simultaneously. In such cases, use the following tips.
If you get a double 1 or a double 12, in addition to causing
a setback or an exploit respectively, the result of the check will
be so sensational (for better or for worse) to enter the myth, with
rumors and stories about it that will spread in the years to come.
You get an EDGE card.
If you roll a 1 and a 12, the two special results “cancel out” each
other without causing any special consequences. Treat the result
of the roll as a simple 13.
TRY AGAIN
It is usually possible to retry a failed ability check only if the
failure does not lead to irreparable consequences or make any
further attempts useless.
For example, if a character fails a TEC (Tampering) check to
open a lock, he or she can try again and keep trying. However,
if the failure means that the lock breaks, then trying again would
be useless.
Similarly, failing a DEX (Stealth) check made to avoid being
noticed by an enemy means that the latter has sensed the presence
of the character. Even if the character manages to hide later, the
enemy will still be aware of his or her presence.
CHAPTER 1: THE RULES 9
 EXPLOITS
Rank Combat exploits
2 On guard: You take a better defensive stance. You get a +2 bonus to your Defense until the start of your next turn.
3 Quick movement: You can immediately move 3 meters or stand up if you’re prone. This extra move does not count on how far you can move
during this turn.
4 Extra minor action: You can immediately take an extra minor action. You can also use this extra minor action to make an attempt to grab, disarm
or shove against an opponent.
5 Effective strike: The attack deals +1d6 extra damage and the target must succeed on a DC 17 STR (Stamina) saving throw or be sickened until
the start of your next turn.
6 Team play: Choose one ally you can see and who can see the target of your attack. That ally can immediately make an attack against that target
using his or her reaction.
7 Help: You can immediately take the Help action as an extra action.
8 Vanish: You can immediately take the Hide action as an extra action, if circumstances allow to do so.
9 Powerful strike: The attack deals +1d8 extra damage and the target suffers a trauma.
10 Lethal strike: The attack deals +1d10 extra damage and the target suffers a trauma.
11 Climb the initiative: From the start of the next combat round, you will act first in the initiative order.

Rank Other example exploits

2 Memorable joke: You come up with a shrewd joke that seals your action. If you can’t think of anything, the GM and the other players can suggest
you some options. Rumors about your joke are likely to spread, for better or for worse.
3 Distraction: Your check attracts someone’s attention. Choose a target that can see and hear you. Until the start of your next turn, the target has
disadvantage on Perception checks that are not directed towards you.
4 Masterful execution: You complete the check-related task using only half the time and resources it normally requires.
5 “One more thing!”: You can make a second ability check to expand the results of the original check (for example, discover more information or
deepen an interaction). This extra check cannot use the same skill used in the original check and cannot generate exploits, but it doesn’t require
additional time or resources since it’s considered contemporary to the first.
6 Focused attention: You have advantage on any other ability check made to examine, study, or understand the target of the check you just made.
This benefit lasts for 10 minutes or until circumstances change in some way.
7 Influencing the audience: Your arguments are so effective that, in addition to the intended target, they also influence others who witness the
scene. Many of those present will be led to support your reasons relating to the current circumstance.
8 Astonished silence: Your performance is so impressive that everyone who witnessed it is astonished and speechless for one round. Out of
combat, this effect lasts at least as long as it takes for you to start doing something else.
9 Emotional response: Choose a target who can see and hear you. Your behavior causes the target to have a strong emotional reaction towards
you. The type of reaction depends on what you do. It could be amazement, admiration, contempt, anger, friendship or even infatuation. It is up to
the GM to decide what happens in detail and what that implies, but it depends a lot on how you continue to act.
10 Discovery: You guess additional information. Depending on the type of check you made, the GM may reveal hidden details about its target, notions
that can influence the situation you are in, one or more personality traits or some well-hidden secret of an interlocutor, and so on.
11 Sign of destiny: You get an EDGE card and can choose any exploit of rank 7 or lower.

SETBACKS
2d10 Setbacks
2 Trauma: If appropriate to the circumstances, you suffer a mild trauma, otherwise no setback happens.
3 “Not right now!”: Something breaks or stops working at the worst moment.
4 Fright: Something scares you. You are frightened until the start of your next turn.
5 Defensive breach: You lower your guard. Attack rolls against you have advantage until the start of your next turn.
6 Outrage: You say or do something that offends an interlocutor, worsening their attitude towards you and your companions.
7 “Damn!”: The weapon you are holding slips from your hand or jams. As an action on your turn, you can pick it up or unjam it.
8 Ringing in your ears: Your ears are ringing annoyingly. You are deafened until the start of your next turn.
9 Uneasiness: Something upsets you unexpectedly. You have disadvantage on your next ability check.
10 “It fell!”: Something you are carrying falls off, loosening from a strap or slipping out of a pocket or backpack.
11 Distraction: Something distracts you momentarily. You have disadvantage on your next ability check.
12 Something in the eye: A glimmer of light or airborne dust blurs your vision. You are dazzled until the start of your next turn.
13 Gaffe: You say or do something trivial, but that an interlocutor does not like or finds inconvenient.
14 Tumble: You stumble and fall prone.
15 Incorrect certainty: You are convinced that your action is successful, without realizing that in reality it’s the exact opposite.
16 From bad to worse: Failing to avoid a harmful effect, you suffer worse consequences (double the damage, double the duration, etc.).
17 Friendly target: Your attack misses the target and accidentally hits an ally that is adjacent to it (or in the direction of the shot).
18 Illness: You suffer from a sudden illness. You are stunned until the start of your next turn.
19 Sudden fatigue: You suddenly feel exhausted. You suffer a level of exhaustion.
20 Loss: You break or lose something important.

10 CHAPTER 1: THE RULES

SKILLS
When making an ability check, characters can apply only one
skill, even if they have more than one that would be appropriate
for that check. Sometimes, the GM might ask to apply a skill on
an ability check – for example, “Make a PER (Inspection) check”.
At other times, the player might ask the GM if a particular skill
applies to a check.
If characters lack a relevant skill, they just apply the pertinent
ability score to the check. At the GM’s discretion, some specific
or difficult tasks could impose disadvantage or be completely
impossible if attempted by characters lacking the appropriate skill.
The various skills are described below, with lots of useful
examples of the activities associated with them.
COMBATIVITY SKILLS
Cold weapons: Proficiency in the use of various melee and
shooting “cold” weapons, such as swords, axes, daggers, clubs,
spears, slings, bows, crossbows, blowguns and so on.
Energy Weapons: Proficiency in the use of all energy weapons,
such as blaster rifles and particle beams.
Gunnery: Competence in operating artillery weapons, such
as vehicular or spacecraft weaponry and land armaments.
Kinetic Weapons: Proficiency in the use of all kinetic weapons,
such as kinetic guns and rifles.
Natural Weapons: Competence in using one’s body as a
weapon, using kicks, punches and the like, whether it is martial
arts or raw brawling. It also includes the creatures’ natural
weapons, such as claws, bites, horns, and so on.
Throwing: Mastery and accuracy in throwing objects, such
as throwing a stone, dagger or grenade, using a lasso, throwing
a grappling hook to secure a rope, and so on.
Wrestling: It involves actions such as grabbing , pushing,
shoving, and wrestling. It is also useful to resist to similar actions
or to free oneself from bonds, holds and other impediments.
STRENGTH SKILLS
Athletics: Indicates athletic training and includes running,
marching, jumping and other gymnastic and aerobic activities.
Climbing: It refers to activities such as climbing cliffs or other
surfaces with holds, equipping fixed rope routes, avoiding dangers
during a climb and so on.
G-Zero: Competence in operating in zero gravity. It involves
activities such as moving smoothly by pushing up against other
objects or using a jet-pack, carrying out prolonged or tiring
activities in zero gravity, and so on. For more information
on gravity, see “Exploration”.
Might: It refers to activities that require the use of pure brute
force, such as lifting, pushing or dragging weights, breaking
objects, knocking doors down and so on.
Stamina: It represents the physical constitution and the ability
to resist fatigue, physical stress, diseases, poisons and other
effects that affect health and physiology.
SKILLS
COMBATIVITY STRENGTH DEXTERITY PERCEPTION
Cold Weapons Athletics Acrobatics Alertness
Energy Weapons Climbing Dancing Insight
Gunnery G-Zero Piloting Inspection
Kinetic Weapons Might Reflex Music
Natural Weapons Stamina Riding Survival
Wrestling Swimming Stealth Visual Arts
Throwing Sleight of Hand
Swimming: This involves activities such as swimming for
a long time, avoiding dangers while swimming, staying afloat
in dangerous, stormy or algae-filled waters, and so on.
DEXTERITY SKILLS
Acrobatics: Concerns activities such as keeping balance
in precarious situations, performing complicated and precise
movements, performing contortions and acrobatic maneuvers.
Dancing: The ability to dance. It includes classical and modern
dance, traditional and folk dances. It is also possible to apply this
skill to choreography.
Piloting: Proficiency in piloting vehicles and spaceships.
If you do not have this skill you can still drive planetary vehicles,
but you could suffer disadvantage in the case of particularly
complex vehicles (such as mechas or air-speeders). On the
contrary, without this skill you cannot fly spaceships.
Reflex: It represents the quickness of reflexes and the ability
to react quickly to instant stimuli, such as sudden dangers and
other unexpected events.
Riding: Competence in riding, especially in combat or other
dangerous situations, such as escapes, chases or when attempting
risky maneuvers.
Stealth: The ability to conceal one’s presence. It involves
activities like hiding, moving silently, mingling with the crowd,
stalking someone, and so on.
Sleight of Hand: Expertise in making manual trickery.
It includes snatching small objects without being noticed,
hiding objects on oneself or others, pickpocketing, performing
legerdemain or jugglery, using and tying ropes and so on.
PERCEPTION SKILLS
Alertness: Indicates the ability to use all your senses to identify
possible threats in the surrounding environment, instinctively
notice when there is something strange or potentially dangerous
and always be ready to react.
Insight: The ability to perceive feelings, emotions and
intentions of others by paying attention to body language, facial
expressions, voice intonation and attitudes.
Inspection: Indicates the ability to investigate the surrounding
environment using all senses, in order to obtain more precise
information and to notice hidden or otherwise not immediately
evident details and clues.
Music: Musical expertise and talent. It includes singing, playing
instruments, composing songs and symphonies, recognizing
styles and genres of music, songs and famous musicians.
Survival: Expertise in surviving in the wilderness. It covers
activities like getting food and water, building shelter, avoiding
natural hazards, finding your way around, facing the elements,
hunting and tracking other creatures.
Visual Arts: Competence in creating visual works of art.
It covers all forms of figurative art such as painting, drawing,
graphics, photography, sculpture, textile arts and so on.
INTELLIGENCE WILL TECH
Erudition Charisma Astronautics
Lucidity Cunning Computer
Medicine Fortitude Cybernetics
Nature Intimidation Explosives
Psionics Socialite Mechatronics
Science Streetwise Mystification
Warfare Trading Tampering
CHAPTER 1: THE RULES 11
 HIDING
The GM decides whether the environment and circumstances allow
for hiding or not. When you hide, you make a DEX (Stealth) check.
As long as you remain hidden, creatures actively attempting to find you
must make PER (Alertness or Inspection) checks. If the result of any
of these checks exceeds that of your DEX (Stealth) check, you will be
discovered and you will no longer be hidden (at least from the creature
that managed to spot you). Also, if you make noise, attack someone,
or take some other action that makes your presence obvious, you will
reveal your location.
You cannot hide from a creature that can see you. An invisible creature
cannot be seen, so it can always try to hide, although it can still be heard
and signs of its passage might still be noticed.
Passive detection: When you hide, there is a chance that someone
will notice you even without actively searching. To determine whether
such a creature notices you, the GM compares your DEX (Stealth) check
to the creature’s passive PER (Alertness) value (see “Passive checks”
above for more details).
INTELLIGENCE SKILLS
Erudition: It represents humanistic and classical knowledge.
It includes literature, linguistics, philosophy, law and legislation,
theology, history, archaeology, anthropology, psychology,
sophontology, sociology, journalism and so on.
Lucidity: It represents the firmness and clarity of the mind,
and the ability to resist effects that cloud or confuse thoughts.
Medicine: Knowledge and competence in the medical field.
It includes first aid, emergency care, medications, diagnosis,
treating poisons and diseases, surgery, long-term care,
establishing the causes of death, as well as medical research.
A character can also use this skill to heal animals or creatures
with unusual physiology (such as aliens or mutants), but with
disadvantage.
Nature: It represents experience and expertise in activities
related to nature. It includes botany, agriculture, agronomy,
zoology, animal husbandry and care, veterinary and so on.
12 CHAPTER 1: THE RULES
PERCEPTION CHECKS
Sometimes the GM will ask you for a Perception check, other times you
might want to make it when you want your character to try to notice
something nearby. The GM could also make the check for you in secret
so that you do not know the outcome. In any case, if there is nothing to
notice, the check will reveal nothing, even with a success. A sleeping
creature cannot make sight-based Perception checks but can passively
use its other senses with disadvantage.
Contests: When you try to notice a stealthy creature, a disguise,
a pickpocket or something similar, your Perception check is opposed
to the appropriate check made by the opponent.
Finding Hidden Objects: When you are looking for something
hidden or hard to spot, such as a trap, the GM asks you to make a PER
(Inspection) check to determine if you notice details or clues that you
would otherwise miss. In most cases, you need to describe where you
are looking in order for the GM to determine your chances of success.
For example, if a key is hidden inside a drawer, you won’t have much
of a chance of finding it unless you tell the GM that you want to search
inside the drawer.
The processing and use of raw materials and products deriving
from agricultural activities may also fall under this skill.
Psionics: It represents the affinity to psychic powers and
their understanding. Psionic characters and creatures use
this skill when manifesting their psionic powers (see “Psychic
Powers”). For those without psychic powers, it’s limited to psionic
knowledge and the ability to identify and understand psionic
phenomena.
Science: Knowledge and competence in the scientific field.
It includes mathematics, physics, astrophysics, chemistry,
biology, exobiology, genetics, geology, geophysics, climatology,
meteorology, and others.
Warfare: War disciplines and military knowledge. It includes
military training, warfare and guerrilla techniques, strategy and
tactics, troop movement, rules of engagement, military ethics,
illegal weapons, and so on.
WILL SKILLS
Charisma: It refers to the ability to use one’s charm to attract
attention, entertain or even try to influence people. It includes
knowing how to perform in public, how to amuse interlocutors
with rhetorical or acting skills, using charm to woo, flirt, seduce
or otherwise attract the attention of others thanks to sensual and
provocative attitudes.
Cunning: It represents the ability to influence the actions
and behaviors of others using words, gestures and posture.
It includes knowing how to persuade or convince, to put others
at ease, inspire trust, ask cordial requests, negotiate and gather
information, but also how to lie, cheat, gamble, mislead, distract,
pass for someone else, provoke someone with insults or derision,
and even how to convey secret messages inside apparently
harmless speeches.
Fortitude: It represents the ability to control emotions, impulses
and reactions, and to resist effects that subdue or bend the will.
Intimidation: It refers to the ability to impose one’s will on the
others thanks to an intimidating attitude. It includes threatening,
extorting information, demoralizing enemies or inducing them
to retreat, and so on.
Socialite: Knowledge and expertise regarding rules of behavior,
good manners, etiquette, the right behavior towards individuals of
rank, rituals on formal occasions, and everything related to social
events such as galas, official ceremonies, receptions and so on.
Streetwise: Knowledge of the urban and suburban environment,
urban legends and rumors, folk traditions, local news, gossip,
entertainment, street culture, as well as gangs, crime, smuggling,
black market, how to receive stolen goods and illicit trafficking.
Trading: Competence and experience in the commercial and
economic fields. It includes knowing how to bargain and the rules
governing trade, knowing which goods are legal and which are
not, understanding whether a deal is worth it or not, assessing
the quality and authenticity of the goods and so on.
TECH SKILLS
Astronautics: Proficiency with spaceship’s on-board
procedures, operations and systems. It includes cosmography,
space cartography and astronavigation, the use of star charts and
the tracking of space routes, the use and management of sensors,
deflector shields, countermeasures, tractor beams, communication
systems and any other on-board apparatus.
Computer: Proficiency with computers and computerized
devices. It includes programming, hacking, IVs and other
programs managing and configuration, networks and databases
usage, adopting the correct connection protocols, remotely
operating connected devices such as drones, surveillance
cameras, automatic doors, security systems and so on.
Cybernetics: It concerns the set of knowledge and techniques
aimed at integrating technology with living biological organisms.
It includes bionics, biomechanics, nanotechnology, artificial
intelligence and so on.
Explosives: Proficiency with explosives and related gear.
It refers to activities such as handling unstable substances,
identifying and using explosives, defusing bombs, choosing
the right explosive for any kind of job, preparing timers and
detonators, establishing how to place a series of charges to
maximize their effects, and so on.
Mechatronics: Technical and technological expertise.
It includes mechanics, civil, environmental, industrial and space
engineering, electronics, robotics, automation, materials science,
applied science in general, and so on.
Mystification: Competence in creating disguises, counterfeits,
fakes and other manufactured tricks and deceptions. This skill
allows to create various types of disguises on oneself or others,
to forging both physical and electronic documents; it also includes
knowing how to encrypt and decrypt codes and information, both
in written and electronic form.
Tampering: Competence in activities such as burgling,
disarming traps and alarms, tampering with or sabotaging safety
devices and systems.
CHAPTER 1: THE RULES 13
 EXPLORATION Forced march: Characters can travel for approximately
Travel and exploration play a central role in adventures and are 8 hours a day without problems. They can push on beyond that
influenced by factors such as travel pace, the type of terrain and limit, at the risk of exhaustion. At the end of each additional hour
the characteristics of the crossed environment. of walking beyond 8 hours, each character must make a STR
(Fortitude) saving throw. The DC is 14 + 1 for each hour past
TIME 8 hours. On a failed saving throw, a character suffers one level
When it matters, the GM might keep track of the time spent in the of exhaustion (see “Conditions”).
game, using a different time scale depending on the context of the
situation or the actions of the characters. DIFFICULT TERRAIN
When exploring limited areas (such as a building), time is The travel paces just described assume that you travel on fairly
measured in minutes. For larger trips, whether in a city or in easy terrain, but adventurers often find themselves moving on
the wilderness, a scale of hours is more appropriate, while a scale difficult terrain, such as intricate vegetation, marshes, rubble,
of days works best for longer journeys. In combat and other fast- slopes or deep snow.
paced situations, the game relies on rounds (see “Combat”). On difficult terrain, moving 1 meter costs 2 meters of speed – so
you can only cover half the normal distance per minute, hour or day.
MOVEMENT
Each creature has a speed, which is the distance in meters it can SPECIAL TYPES OF MOVEMENT
walk in one round. The following rules instead determine how A creature’s speed expresses how quickly it moves on foot.
much creatures can move in longer periods of time, such as a But walking is not the only way to move. Climbing, swimming,
minute, an hour or a day. jumping, crawling or even flying are all possible types of
movement during exploration.
TRAVEL PACE Climbing, Swimming and Crawling: While climbing,
It is assumed that the pace of a group of characters moving on foot crawling or swimming, each meter of movement costs twice
is independent of each member’s individual speed, since during as much (or three times as much in difficult terrain), unless you
a journey travelers tend to adopt a common step. have a climbing or swimming speed. At the GM’s discretion, in
While traveling, a group of characters can move at a normal, difficult conditions these activities may require Strength Checks
fast, or slow pace, as shown on the Travel Pace table. The table associated with the appropriate skill.
indicates the distances covered by the group in a minute, an Jumping: Your Strength score determines how far you can jump.
hour and a day, based on the pace maintained, as well as the When you make a jump, if you move at least 3 meters on foot
effects that such pace entails. A fast pace makes characters less immediately before the jump, you cover a number of meters up to
alert to possible dangers, while a slow pace makes it possible 3 + STR with a long jump, or a height up to 25 cm plus another 25
to move stealthily (for more information see “Activities during cm for each point of your STR score if you make a high jump. If
exploration”, further on). you make a standing jump, you can leap only half those distances.
Each meter you clear on a jump costs one meter of movement.
The GM may ask you for a STR (Athletics) check when you
attempt to jump a longer distance than normal, either high
TRAVEL PACE or long, or when there are obstacles in the middle of the jump.
Distance traveled per… If after a jump you land on difficult terrain, you must succeed
Pace Minute Hour 8 hours Effect a DC 14 DEX (Acrobatics) check to land on your feet. Otherwise
you land prone.
Fast 120 m 6,5 km 53 km Disadvantage on PER (Alertness)
Flying: Some creatures possess a flight speed. Thanks to
Normal 90 m 5 km 40 km – special equipment or psionic powers, even characters could gain
Slow 60 m 3,5 km 27 km Able to use DES (Stealth) the ability to fly.

14 CHAPTER 1: THE RULES

ACTIVITIES DURING EXPLORATION
As they explore, in addition remain alert for danger, characters
might perform various types of tasks and activities.
MARCHING ORDER
When the GM considers it appropriate, adventurers should
establish a marching order, deciding who is leading the group,
who is in the center and who is in the back. This makes easier
to determine which characters fall victim to a trap, which ones
can spot hidden threats and which ones are closest to enemies
at the start of a fight.
STEALTH
While traveling at a slow pace, characters can move stealthily in
order not to be detected by the creatures they encounter. It is up
to the GM to decide whether the environment and circumstances
allow the characters to remain stealthy (see the “Hiding” box in the
“Ability checks” section). NPCs and creatures can also use stealth
to avoid being noticed by characters or even to ambush them.
NOTICING THREATS
If characters are aware that they may encounter threats and are
alert, they can make PER (Alertness) checks to determine whether
or not they can notice them, otherwise the GM uses their passive
PER (Alertness) scores. If no one moves stealthily (see above),
creatures automatically notice each other as soon as they enter
their respective sight or hearing range.
Sometimes, the GM may decide that certain threats are only
detectable by characters in a certain position in the marching
order. For example, while the characters are exploring the
corridors of a haunted spaceship, the GM may assume that
only the characters in the rear will notice a creature stealthily
following them, while the other characters do not have the chance.
When characters encounter hostile creatures, it is up to the GM
to determine whether they or their enemies can be surprised at
the start of a fight. For more information see “Combat”, further on.
THE ENVIRONMENT
By its nature, adventuring involves delving into places that are
dark, dangerous, and full of mysteries to be explored. The rules
in this section cover some of the most common ways in which
adventurers interact with the environment in such places.
ABSENCE OF GRAVITY
Four gravity conditions are considered in the game: normal, low,
high and zero gravity. In this quickstarter, in addition to normal
gravity (which does not involve any special rules) the characters
will only encounter zero gravity environments, the effects of
which are described below.
• Unless it is a purely mental activity, when a creature makes
an ability check while in zero-gravity, it must posses the G-Zero
skill in order to be able to apply any other skill to the check.
• Without a propulsion method suitable for zero-gravity, a
creature can only move by giving itself a push using a stable
surface or an object at least two sizes larger as a support.
Doing so requires a minor action and allows the creature to
obtain a speed equal to double its STR (Might) score or lower
if it prefers. Once that speed is gained, the creature has no
way to stop or change direction unless it can reach another
surface stable enough to allow it to stop or push itself in
another direction (in both cases using a minor action).
• The damage caused by impacts and collisions depends only
on the relative speed of the bodies and it is up to the GM to
determine it.
OTHER ACTIVITIES WHILE EXPLORING
During exploration, characters who are not focused on watching for
dangers can engage in other activities, such as looking for food and
water, navigating, following tracks and so on. However, these activities
will not come into play in the adventure presented in this quickstarter set.
COLLISIONS
High-speed collisions can be very dangerous. The size of an object
determines the damage it causes and the DC of the DEX (Reflex)
saving throw needed to halve it, as indicated in the Collisions
table (the GM can modify the indicated DCs if they see fit).
In the case of falling objects, if a creature fails its saving throw
and the object’s size is at least two size categories larger, it gets
stuck under the object and is restrained. The creature can break
free by succeeding a STR (Might) check against the same DC.
COLLISIONS
Object size Object examples Damage DC
Tiny Frying pan, large stone 1d6 7
Small Chair, stool, suitcase 2d6 10
Medium Barrel, table, chest 4d6 13
Large Boulder, dumpster 6d6 16
Huge Car, big boulder 9d6 20
Gargantuan Railway wagon, container 12d6 24
In the case of collisions with objects so large as to be inevitable,
the rules described for falling can instead be used, but the GM
will establish the damage based on the relative speed at which the
collision occurs rather than the height of the fall.
FALLING
Falling from great heights is one of the most common
environmental hazards. At the end of a fall, a creature that
impacts the ground takes 1d6 kinetic damage for every 3 meters
from which it fell, up to a maximum of 20d6.
The creature lands prone unless it can somehow avoid the
damage. If the creature lands on soft surfaces (such as mud, fresh
snow or water that are deep enough) the fall is considered to be
3 meters shorter. Succeeding a DEX (Acrobatics) check with DC
13 +1 for every 3 meters of fall also allows to consider the fall 3
meters shorter.
INTERACTING WITH OBJECTS
A character’s interaction with objects within an environment is
often simple to solve in game: the player tells the GM what their
character wants to do and the GM describes what happens.
For example, a character might decide to pull an opening lever
on a cargo door. However, if the lever is stuck, the GM might call
for a STR (Might) check to see whether or not the character can
wrench it. The GM sets the DC for any such check based on the
difficulty of the task.
Characters can also attack objects for the purpose of breaking
or destroying them. The only rule, simple and fast, is this: if they
have enough time and suitable tools, the characters will be able to
destroy any destructible object, within the limits of common sense.

CHAPTER 1: THE RULES 15

 RADIATION
Ionizing radiation is one of the most dire environmental dangers.
When a creature is exposed to a radiation source it accumulates
a certain number of rads, as indicated in the Radiation Exposure
table. A creature can’t know how many rads it has accumulated
unless the creature has a device that can measure them.
Radiation effects: Radiation effects are described in the
Radiation Effects table and occur immediately after the rads
accumulated by a creature exceed the indicated amounts. These
effects stack with each other and cannot be removed in any way
until the rad contamination is cured. There are also long-term
effects (such as tumors, infertility, etc.) but it is up to the GM to
decide whether or not to consider their occurrence in the game.
Radiation healing: A creature naturally eliminates 1 rad every
8 hours. Once the level of rad contamination decreases, its effects
subside. There are drugs that can accelerate decontamination,
eliminating a large amount of rads in a few hours.
Radiation resistance: Some creatures possess an innate
resistance to radiation. Artificial protections can also guarantee
such a resistance. Resistance to radiation lowers the level of
exposure. For example, resistance 1 to radiation lowers the
exposure level by 1.
SUFFOCATING
A creature can hold its breath for a number of minutes equal to 1
+ it’s STR score. After that, if it’s still unable to breathe, it can still
resist for a number of rounds equal to 1 + STR, after which at the
start of its text turn the creature drops to 0 vitality and is dying.
For example, a creature with Strength 2 can hold its breath
for 3 minutes. If it starts suffocating, he has 3 rounds to reach
air before dropping to 0 vp. A creature that is suffocating cannot
regain vitality points or be stabilized until it can breathe again.
VISION AND LIGHT
The most fundamental tasks of adventuring – noticing dangers,
finding hidden objects, hitting an enemy in combat, just to name
a few – rely heavily on a character’s ability to see. Darkness and
other effects that blur vision can prove a significant hindrance.
VISIBILITY
In the game, an area can be dimmed or obscured.
• In a dimmed area (such as in dim light, fog, moderate foliage
or rainfall) creatures have a disadvantage on Perception
checks that rely on sight.
• An obscured area (such as darkness, dense fog, or dense
foliage) completely blocks vision and prevents from seeing
what is inside. Trying to see (or hit) something inside a
darkened area is equivalent to suffer the blinded condition
(see “Conditions”, further on).
See “Combat” for more information on the effects of visibility
during combat.
ILLUMINATION
Under normal conditions, a minimal amount of light is required
to be able to see, unless the characters posses some ability that
allows them to see in total darkness (see “Types of vision and
special senses”).
The presence or absence of light in an environment creates three
categories of illumination: bright light, dim light, and darkness.
Bright light lets most creatures see normally. Even gloomy
days provide bright light, as do torches, lanterns, fires, and other
16 CHAPTER 1: THE RULES
RADIATION EXPOSURE
Exposure level Rad contamination
1. Background radiation 1 rad per 24 hours
2. Low 1 rad per 8 hours
3. Medium 1 rad per hour
4. High 1 rad per minute
5. Extreme 1 rad per round (10 rad per minute)
RADIATION EFFECTS
Rads Effetti
5 Abnormal weakness
10 +1 level of exhaustion, skin irritation such as sunburns
20 +1 level of exhaustion, migraine, extensive dermatitis
+1 level of exhaustion, skin sores, cataracts (dazzled),
40
mild hair loss
+1 level of exhaustion, vomiting and diarrhea, complete hair loss,
60
no recovery of vitality points with rest
80 +1 degree of exhaustion, hemorrhages (bleeding)
100 Death
sources of illumination within a specific radius (see below).
Dim light creates a dimmed area. An area of dim light is
usually a boundary between a source of bright light, such as a
torch, and surrounding darkness. The soft light of twilight and
dawn also counts as dim light, as it is the light of a particularly
bright full moon.
Darkness creates an obscured area. Characters face darkness
outdoors at night, within the confines of an unlit dungeon or other
closed places.
Light sources: Characters can use light sources such as lamps
and flashlights. They project light within a certain radius and with
a certain intensity, as indicated in the relevant description.
TYPES OF VISION AND SPECIAL SENSES
Some characters, as well as many creatures, may have different
or superior visual or sensory abilities compared to normal human
sight (innate or perhaps guaranteed by some technological
device). Here are the most common.
Infravision: A creature with infravision (ie infrared vision) can
see in the dark as if it were dim light and in dim light as if it were
bright light. So areas of darkness are only dimmed as far as that
creature is concerned. However, the creature can’t discern color
in darkness, only shades of gray.
Thermovision: Thermovision works like infravision but, by
capturing thermal infrared radiation, it highlights the bodies that
give off more heat, making them visible even through not too thick
barriers (such as pipes or electrical cables inside walls, a hidden
creature behind a door or a thin wall, etc.).
Blindsight: A creature with blindsight can perceive its
surroundings without relying on sight but using other senses,
up to a specific radius.
OTHER PERILS
During the adventure of this quickstarter, characters may
encounter perils that are not mentioned in this section. The
relative rules are described as needed.
SOCIAL INTERACTION
Exploration and combat are essential parts of any adventure, but
no less important are the social interactions that the characters
have with other inhabitants of the in-game worlds. The interaction
takes various forms, from convincing a criminal to confess a crime
to begging a ruler to spare your life. The GM takes on the role of
all involved characters who don’t belong to the players, called
non-player characters (NPCs).
Social interactions have two primary aspects: roleplaying and
ability checks.
ROLEPLAYING
Roleplaying is, literally, the act of playing out a role. In this case,
it’s you as a player determining how your character thinks, acts
and talks. Roleplaying is a part of every aspect of the game, but
becomes predominant during social interactions, where the
character’s attitude and personality make the difference.
APPROACHES TO ROLEPLAYING
There are two styles you can use when roleplaying your character:
the descriptive approach and the active approach. Many players
use a combination of the two. Use whichever mix of the two works
best for you.
Using the descriptive approach, you describe your character’s
words and actions to the GM and the other players, telling to
everyone what your character does and how he or she does it.
For example, John plays Ktar the kergan. Ktar has a short
temper and blames terrans for his misfortunes. At a tavern,
a terran sits at Ktar’s table and tries to make conversation with
him. John says, “Ktar spits on the floor, insults the terran and
goes to sit at the bar counter, glaring at him”. In doing so, John
provided the GM with a clear idea of the kergan’s mood, attitude
and actions.
When using descriptive roleplaying, focus on your character’s
intentions and how others may perceive them, then try to describe
your character’s emotions and attitude as best as you can,
providing all the details you want.
Otherwise, when you use an active approach, you not only
describe what your character thinks and does, but you show it,
speaking with your character’s voice and maybe even mimicking
his or her movements and body language, just like an actor taking
on a role. This approach is more engaging than the previous one,
but you steel need to describe things you can’t act out.
Going back to the example of John playing Ktar, here’s how the
scene might play out using active roleplaying: speaking as Ktar,
John says in a deep, hoarse voice, “Stay away from me human.
If I wanted to hear your voice, I’d tear off your arm and enjoy your
screams”. Returning to his normal voice, John adds, “I get up,
stare at the human and head towards the bar counter”.
RESULTS OF ROLEPLAYING
The GM uses the actions and behavior of the characters to
determine how the NPCs react.
In general terms, an NPC’s attitude towards characters is
described as friendly, indifferent or hostile. Friendly NPCs are
likely to help you, hostile NPCs are likely to get in your way.
When interacting with NPCs, pay close attention to the
GM’s portrayal of them. You may be able to understand their
personality traits (such as ideals, bonds, and flaws), and then
use them to influence their behavior.
Interactions in the game are very similar to interactions in real
life. If you can offer NPCs something they want, threaten them
with something they fear, or play on their likes or goals, you can
use words to get almost anything you want. On the other hand,
if for example you insult a proud fighter or speak ill of his allies,
your efforts to persuade or deceive him could fail miserably.
ABILITY CHECKS
In addition to roleplaying efforts that can affect a NPC’s attitude,
ability checks are key in determining the outcome of an interaction.
The GM may call for ability checks at any time during an
interaction to determine what effect the characters’ words and
actions have on NPCs. The abilities that come into play most
easily during interactions are Perception, Intelligence and Will.
Pay attention to your skills when thinking about how you want
to interact with an NPC, and set the situation in your favor based
on your best bonuses and qualities. For example, if the group need
to trick a guard into letting them into the palace, the character
expert in Cunning is the best bet to lead the interaction. When
attempting to extract information by force then the character
with Intimidation should do most of the work.
CHAPTER 1: THE RULES 17

COMBAT
The flash of a blaster rifle firing. The hiss of bullets whizzing
through the air. The roar of an exploding grenade. The acrid smell
of blood. Roars of fury, yells of triumph, screams of pain. In this
game, combat can be chaotic, deadly and exciting.
This section covers the rules for handling combat in detail.
In combat, the GM controls all creatures and NPCs involved,
while each other player controls their character.
THE ORDER OF COMBAT
A typical combat encounter is a clash between two sides: a
frenetic flurry of weapon swings, gunshots, feints, dodges and
tactical maneuvers occurring almost simultaneously. However,
in order to make it manageable, the game organizes the chaos
of combat into a cycle of rounds and turns.
A round represents just a few moments in the game world
(approximately 6 seconds). During a round, each participant in
the battle takes a turn. The order of turns is determined at the
beginning of a combat encounter, when everyone rolls initiative
(see below). Once everyone has taken a turn, the fight continues
to the next round if neither side has defeated the other.
A combat follows the steps described below:
1. Determine surprise: The GM determines whether anyone
involved in the combat encounter is surprised (see “Surprise”).
2. Establish positions: The GM decides where all the characters
and creatures involved in the combat are located on the
battlefield.
3. Roll initiative: Everyone involved in the combat encounter
rolls initiative, determining the order of combatants’ turns.
4. Take turns during a round: Each participant in the battle
takes a turn in initiative order (see “Taking a turn”).
When everyone involved in the combat has had a turn,
the round ends and the next one begins.
5. Ending the combat: Step 4 repeats until all the combatants
of a faction surrender, flee, are defeated or otherwise rendered
unable to fight.
18 CHAPTER 1: THE RULES
SURPRISE
When a group involved in a combat tries to ambush the enemy
faction, it is possible that the members of the latter do not notice
the danger. In these situations, the GM determines who might be
surprised. If neither side tries to be stealthy, they automatically
notice each other. Otherwise, the GM compares the DEX (Stealth)
checks of anyone hiding with the PER (Alertness) check of each
creature on the opposing side (even passive checks if the GM
deems it appropriate). Those who fail to notice the threat are
surprised at the start of the encounter.
If you’re surprised, you can’t move or take any action on your
first turn of the combat, and you can’t take a reaction until that
turn ends. A member of a group can be surprised even if the
other members aren’t.
INITIATIVE
Initiative determines the order of turns during combat. When
combat starts, every participant makes a Dexterity check as
an initiative roll, to determine their place in the initiative order.
Some game elements may grant bonuses or penalties to
characters’ initiative rolls.
The GM makes initiative rolls for enemies and can make
a single roll for an entire group of identical creatures, so that they
all act at the same time. The GM ranks the combatants in order
from the one with the highest initiative roll total to the one with
the lowest. This is the order (called the initiative order) in which
they act during each round.
If a tie occurs, the GM decides the order among tied GM-
controlled creatures, and the players decide the order among their
tied characters. The GM can decide the order if the tie is between
an enemy and a player character. Optionally, the GM can have
the tied characters and enemies each roll a d12 to determine the
order, highest roll going first.
Usually, the initiative order stays the same from round to round.
Joining a battle: If you enter a battle after it has already begun,
you roll initiative at that moment and fit into the existing order.
Delay: When your turn comes, you can decide to delay, which
means you willingly move your turn to the bottom of the initiative
order. Your new initiative position will remain for the rest of the
fight, unless the initiative order is subsequently changed again,
for example if other fighters delay their turn in the same way.
TAKING A TURN
On your turn, you can move a distance up to your speed, take
one action and one minor action. You can do these things in any
order you like, and you can also forgo moving, taking an action,
or doing anything at all on your turn. The following paragraphs
provide rules for movement and the most common actions you
can perform during combat.
Your turn can also include a variety of simple gestures and
flourishes that require neither your action nor your move. For
example, you can communicate however you are able, through
brief utterances and gestures. You can also interact with one
object or feature of the environment for free, during either your
move or your action, such as opening or closing a door, operating
a lever, drawing a weapon or other object at hand, pick up
something from the ground, pass an object to another character,
put food in your mouth, put on a helmet, kick a stone and so on.
If you want to interact with a second object, you need to use your
action. Some special objects always require an action to use, as
stated in their descriptions.
The GM might require you to use an action for any of these
activities when it needs special care or when it presents unusual
obstacles. For instance, the GM could reasonably expect you to
use an action to open a stuck door.
REACTIONS
A reaction is an instant response to a trigger of some kind, which
can occur on your turn or on someone else’s. The opportunity
attack, described below, is a typical example of a reaction.
When you take a reaction, you can’t take another one until
the start of your next turn. If the reaction interrupts another
creature’s turn, that creature can continue its turn right after
the reaction.
MOVEMENT
On your turn, you can move a distance up to your speed. You can
use as much or as little of your speed as you like on your turn,
following the rules described below.
BREAKING UP YOUR MOVE
You can break up your movement on your turn, using some of
your speed before and after your action. For example, if you have
a speed of 10 meters, you can move 4 meters, take your action,
and then move 6 meters. You can also break the movement
between an action and a minor action.
Moving between attacks: If you take an action that includes
more than one attack, you can break up your movement even
further by moving between those attacks. For example, a character
who can make two attacks with the Extra Attack feature and who
has a speed of 10 meters could move 5 meters, make an attack,
move another 5 meters, and then attack again.
Using different types of movement: In addition to walking,
your movement can also include jumping, climbing, and swimming.
However you’re moving, you deduct the distance of each part of your
move from your speed until it’s used up or until you’re done moving.
If you have more than one speed, such as a swimming or flying
speed in addition to your base walking speed, you can switch back
and forth between your speeds during your move. Whenever you
switch, subtract the distance you’ve already moved from the new
speed. The result determines how much farther you can move.
If the result is 0 or less, you can’t use the new speed during the
current move. For example, if you have a base speed of 10 meters
and a flying speed of 20 meters, you could fly 6 meters, then walk
4 meters, and then leap into the air to fly 10 meters more.
DIFFICULT TERRAIN
When the terrain on which the characters move does not involve
any difficulty, it is called clear terrain. Instead, when the terrain
hinders movement or presents obstacles, it is considered difficult
terrain. Every meter of movement in difficult terrain costs 1 extra
meter. This rule is true even if multiple things in a space count as
difficult terrain.
Some circumstances (such as while squeezing into smaller
places, swimming, climbing or crawling) cost extra movement
similarly to difficult terrain. If such circumstances occur while the
character is actually moving on difficult terrain, add another extra
meter to the cost of movement, such as 1 meter of movement will
cost 2 extra meters (rather than only one).
Rubble, debris, passable obstacles, steep stairs or slopes,
undergrowth, snow, ice and marshes are examples of difficult
terrain. The space of another creature, whether hostile or not,
also counts as difficult terrain.
DROPPING PRONE AND STANDING UP
Fighters often find themselves lying on the ground, either by their
own choice or because they are knocked down. In the game, they
are prone (a condition described in the “Conditions”, further on).
You can drop prone without using any of your speed. Standing
up takes more effort and consumes 3 meters of your speed. You
can’t stand up if you haven’t enough movement left or if your speed
is 0. If you stand up while you’re within reach of a hostile creature,
you provoke an opportunity attack, but you can avoid it by
succeeding a DC 16 DES (Acrobatics) check as part of the move.
To move while prone, you must crawl. Every meter of
movement while crawling costs 1 extra movement. Crawling 1
meter in difficult terrain, therefore, costs 3 meters of movement.
STEALTH IN COMBAT
If a creature wants to move stealthily during combat, its speed is
halved. If the creature tries to move faster it suffers disadvantage
on its DES (Stealth) checks.
CHAPTER 1: THE RULES 19
 FLYING MOVEMENT the same size. If the creatures are of different sizes, this number
Flying creatures enjoy many benefits of mobility, but they must may increase or decrease, depending on the space they occupy.
also deal with the danger of falling. If a flying creature is knocked Squeezing into a smaller space: A creature can also squeeze
prone, has its speed reduced to 0, or is otherwise deprived of the through a space that is large enough for a creature one size
ability to move, the creature falls, unless it has the ability to hover smaller than it. Thus, a Large creature can squeeze through
or it is being held aloft by other effects such as psionic powers. a passage that’s only 1,5 meters wide. While squeezing,
a creature must spend 1 extra meter for every meter it moves,
CREATURES SIZE AND SPACE it has disadvantage on attack rolls and Dexterity saving throws,
A creature’s size expresses how much space it “occupies” and and attack rolls against the creature have advantage.
affects various aspects of the game. There are six size categories. Reach: A creature’s reach is the maximum distance the
Objects sometimes use the same size categories. creature can reach with a melee attack. A creature “threaten”
the space within its reach. A creature’s reach is shown in its
stats. Creatures with a reach of 0 must enter another creature’s
SIZE CATEGORIES
space in order to attack it.
Size Space Typical reach Moving through other creature’s space: You can always move
Tiny 0,7 x 0,7 m 0,5 m through a non-hostile creature’s space. In contrast, you can move
Small 1x1m 1m through a hostile creature’s space only if the creature is at least
two sizes larger or smaller than you, or by taking the Overstep
Medium 1,5 x 1,5 m 1m
minor action (see “Action in combat”). Remember that another
Large 3x3m 2m creature’s space is always considered difficult terrain for you.
Huge 5x5m 3m Whether a creature is a friend or an enemy, you can’t willingly
Gargantuan 7 x 7 m o more 4m end your move in its space.
If you leave a hostile creature’s reach during your move, you
provoke an opportunity attack (see “Action in combat”).
Space: A creature’s space is the area in meters that it effectively
controls, the space it needs to move and fight effectively, not a
direct expression of its physical dimensions. A typical Medium REPRESENTING COMBAT
creature isn’t 1,5 meter wide, for example, but it does control During a combat it can be important to establish the mutual position
a space that wide. of the creatures involved. It is possible to represent the battlefield on the
A creature’s space also imposes a limit to the number of game table using a scale where 1 cm equals 1 meter in the game world,
creatures that can surround another creature in combat. For and markers to indicate the various fighters. A common ruler will be
sufficient to measure distances.
example, a creature can be surrounded by up to 8 creatures of the

20 CHAPTER 1: THE RULES

ACTIONS IN COMBAT
The most common actions, minor actions and reaction that can
be performed in combat are described below.
In addition to those presented here, characters often have other
action options gained from objects or special features (such as
feats and psionic powers). In those cases, the description of such
object or feature specifies whether it is an action, minor action
or reaction. If a creature has specific action options, those actions
are described in its stat block.
Furthermore, there is nothing that prevents players from
proposing to the GM actions not described in the rules. The only
limits in this regard are the imagination of the players and the
ability scores of their characters. Obviously, in these cases, the
GM tells you whether that action is possible and what kind of
roll you need to make, if any, to determine success or failure.
ACTIONS
ATTACK
The most common action to take in combat is the Attack action.
With this action, you make one melee or ranged attack. See the
“Making an Attack” section for the rules that govern attacks.
As part of the attack action, you can also draw a single weapon
that you have at hand. Certain features, such as Extra Attack,
allow you to make more than one attack with this action.
DASH
When you take the Dash action, you gain extra movement for
the current turn. The increase equals your speed, after applying
any modifiers. With a speed of 10 meters, for example, you can
move up to 20 meters on your turn if you dash. Any increase or
decrease to your speed changes this additional movement by the
same amount. If your speed of 10 meters is reduced to 6 meters,
for instance, you can move up to 12 meters this turn if you dash.
DEFEND
When you take the Dodge action, you focus entirely on avoiding
attacks. Until the start of your next turn, any attack roll made
against you has disadvantage if you can see the attacker, and you
make DEX saving throws with advantage. You lose this benefit if
you are incapacitated (see “Conditions”) or if your speed drops to 0.
DISENGAGE
If you take the Disengage action, your movement doesn’t provoke
opportunity attacks for the rest of the turn.
HELP
You can lend your aid to another creature in the completion of a
task. When you take the Help action, the creature you aid gains
advantage on the next ability check it makes to perform the task
you are helping with, provided that it makes the check before the
start of your next turn.
Alternatively, you can aid a friendly creature in attacking a
creature that is adjacent to you. You distract the target or in some
other way team up to make your ally’s attack more effective. If
your ally attacks the target before your next turn, the first attack
roll is made with advantage.
HIDE
When you take the Hide action, you make a DEX (Stealth) check
in an attempt to hide, following the rules for hiding. If you
succeed, you gain certain benefits, as described in the “Unseen
Attackers and Targets” section.
READY
Sometimes, you want to anticipate a foe move or wait for a specific
circumstance before you act. To do so, on your turn you can take
the Ready action, which lets you act using your reaction before
the start of your next turn.
First, you decide what perceivable circumstance will trigger
your reaction. Then, you choose the action you will take in
response to that trigger, or you choose to move up to your speed
in response to it. Examples include “If the raider goes on the
trapdoor, I’ll pull the lever that opens it” or “If the creature steps
next to me, I move away”. When the trigger occurs, you can either
carry out the prepared action using your reaction right after the
trigger finishes or ignore the trigger. Remember that you can take
only one reaction per round.
SEARCH
When you take the Search action, you devote your attention to
find something in your surroundings. The GM might have you
make a PER (Inspection) check.
MINOR ACTIONS
AIM
When you aim, you focus your attention on a target you can see
in order to attack it more accurately. If you attack that target with
your next action, you gain a +1 bonus on your first attack roll
against it.
FEINT
You feint to mislead a melee opponent. You make a WIL (Cunning)
check against the opponent’s PER (Insight) check. If you win, you
have advantage on the first melee attack you make against that
opponent before the end of your next turn.
OVERRUN
You try to move through a hostile creature’s space. You make
a DEX (Acrobatics) or STR (Might) check against the creature’s
STR (Might) check. If you use STR, you have advantage if you are
larger than the hostile creature or disadvantage if you are smaller.
Vice versa if you use DEX. If you are successful, you can move
through the creature’s space once during your current turn.
If you fail, you cannot move through the creature’s space and it
can use its reaction to make an opportunity attack against you.
REACTIONS
DODGE
As a reaction, you can attempt to actively dodge a melee attack
aimed at you and that you are aware of. If you do, you impose
disadvantage on the attack roll of that specific attack.
OPPORTUNITY ATTACK
During combat, everyone is constantly watching for a chance
to strike an enemy who is fleeing or passing by. Such a strike
is called an opportunity attack.
You can make an opportunity attack when a hostile creature
that you can see moves out of your reach. To make the opportunity
attack, you use your reaction to make one melee attack against
the provoking creature. The attack occurs right before the creature
leaves your reach.
You can avoid provoking an opportunity attack by taking the
Disengage action. You also don’t provoke an opportunity attack
when you teleport or when someone or something moves you
without using your movement, action, or reaction (for example,
if an explosion hurls you out of a foe’s reach or if gravity causes
you to fall past an enemy).
Sometimes, other actions performed by a creature within reach
of an enemy could also provoke an opportunity attack, such as
getting up from prone.
CHAPTER 1: THE RULES 21
 MAKING AN ATTACK DISTANCE
Whether you’re striking with a melee weapon, firing a weapon at Distance category Description Defense Bonus
range, or making an attack roll as part of a special feature (such
Adjacent Within melee reach –
as a talent or psionic power) an attack has a simple structure.
Close Up to 10 meters –
1. Choose a target: Pick a target within your attack’s range:
a creature, an object, or a location. Short Over 10 and up to 30 meters +2
2. Determine modifiers: Define the ability, skill and other Medium Over 30 and up to 50 meters +4
modifiers applicable to the attack roll, based on the type Long Over 50 and up to 100 meters +6
of attack and the circumstances.
Extreme Over 100 meters +10 or more
3. Determine difficulty: The GM determines the DC of the
attack roll, taking into account factors such as distance and
cover, and decides if you have advantage or disadvantage
against the target, depending on the situation. COVER
4. Resolve the attack: You make the attack roll. On a hit, Cover degree Description Defense Bonus
you roll damage, unless the attack has rules that specify Light It covers one third of the body +2
otherwise. Some attacks produce special effects in addition
Moderate It covers half of the body +4
to or instead of damage.
High It covers three quarters of the body +6
ATTACK ROLLS Total It covers the entire body Can’t be targeted
An attack roll is an ability check you make when you try to hit a
foe or an object. If the result equals or exceeds the DC established
by the GM (see below), the attack hits. Otherwise you miss. A creature with total cover (completely hidden behind an
Modifiers to the roll: When making an attack roll, you apply obstacle) cannot be hit by any attack originating on the opposite
the ability and skill appropriate to the weapon or effect you side of the cover, although some effects may still affect the
are using. If you attack with weapons you use Combativity and creature by including it in their area of effect (for example,
apply the skill associated with the type of weapon used. For a grenade launched beyond the cover).
example, a character using an assault rifle makes attack rolls If a target is behind multiple sources of cover, only the most
with CMB (Kinetic Weapons); if you instead make an attack as protective degree of cover applies; the degrees aren’t added
part of a special feature, the ability and skill used are indicated together. For example, if a target is behind a creature that gives
in its description. For psionic powers, the attack roll is always moderate cover and a tree trunk that gives high cover, the target
INT (Psionics). In addition, powers, special abilities, talents, has high cover.
equipment and other game elements may apply bonuses or
penalties to attack rolls. VISIBILITY
If the target of an attack is in a dimmed area, the attack roll has
DIFFICULTY OF THE ATTACK disadvantage.
As a general rule, the base DC of an attack roll is equal to the Instead, if the target is in an obscured area, it is considered
Defense value of the target. If you target an empty space or invisible (see “Unseen attackers and targets”).
immobile object, the DC is 9. However, factors such as distance,
cover, visibility and position can affect the actual DC of an attack, UNSEEN ATTACKERS AND TARGETS
as explained in the following paragraphs. When attacking a target that you can’t see, you have disadvantage
on the attack roll. This is true whether you’re guessing the target’s
DISTANCE location or you’re targeting a creature you can spot using other
Melee attacks are made against adjacent targets (within the reach senses but not see. If the target isn’t in the location you targeted,
of the attack). In these cases the distance are irrelevant and does you automatically miss, but the GM typically just says that the
not affect the difficulty of the attack. attack missed, not whether you guessed the target’s location
On the contrary, when you make ranged attacks distance correctly.
becomes a very important factor. This game divides distance into When a creature can’t see you, you have advantage on attack
six categories, shown in the Distance table. If the target of a ranged rolls against it. If you are hidden – both unseen and unheard –
attack is beyond the Close distance (10 meters), hitting becomes when you make an attack, you reveals your location whether
more difficult and the target receives a bonus to its Defense the attack hits or misses.
against that attack, as indicated in the Defense Bonus column
of the Distance table.
In some situations, such as in spaceship combat, different scales
are used for the distance categories.
POSITION (OPTIONAL)
COVER Sometimes, the position relative to the enemy can make a difference.
Walls, trees, creatures, large objects, and other obstacles can Flanking: If two or more allies are engaged in melee with the same
provide cover during combat, making a target more difficult to hit. opponent and at least two of them attack from diametrically opposite
A target can benefit from cover only when an attack or other effect positions, all allies gain a +2 bonus on their attack rolls against that
originates on the opposite side of the cover itself. target. It is not possible to flank an enemy if you cannot see it.
There are four degrees of cover. A creature that benefits from Elevated position: Attacking from an elevated position guarantees
a certain degree of cover gets a bonus to its Defense against advantage to attack rolls against targets located below the attacker
attacks originating on the opposite side of the cover, as indicated and usually ensures a clear trajectory towards them, unless there are
obstacles higher than the targets themselves. For example, attacking
in the Cover table. In addition, the creature has advantage on
on a mount places the rider in an elevated position in relation to all
its Dexterity saving throws against effects that originate on the opponents smaller than the mount’s size.
opposite side of the cover.

22 CHAPTER 1: THE RULES

RANGED ATTACKS
Ranged attacks are made to strike foes at a distance. Shooting
a pistol, firing a bow or a crossbow, hurling a knife - all these
are examples of ranged attacks. A creature might even shoot
spines from its tail. Many psionic powers and other effects also
involve making a ranged attack.
To be able to make a ranged attack you must have a clear path
to the target, therefore the target cannot be behind a total cover
(see “Cover”).
RANGE
You can make ranged attacks against targets within a specified
range, indicated in the description of the weapon or effect you
use to make the attack. The range is expressed according to the
distance categories mentioned above.
Unless otherwise specified, you can also attack targets within
the distance category immediately above the indicated range, but
with disadvantage on the attack roll. For example, if a weapon has
Medium range, unless otherwise indicated, you can attack targets
at Long range with it but suffering disadvantage on attack rolls.
RANGED ATTACKS IN CLOSE COMBAT
Making a ranged attack is more difficult when a foe is next to you.
When you make a ranged attack with a weapon, a power, or some
other means, you have disadvantage on the attack roll if you are
adjacent to at least one hostile creature who can see you and who
isn’t incapacitated.
TARGET IN MELEE COMBAT WITH AN ALLY
If you make a ranged attack targeting an enemy engaged in melee
with an ally, you have disadvantage on the attack roll because you
have to be careful not to hit your ally. This rule does not apply if
the target is at least two size categories larger than the ally it is
fighting with.
THROWING BLASTING WEAPONS
When you throw a blasting weapon (such as an explosive grenade
or that breaks on impact spreading its contents), the attack
generates an area of effect (see below) and follows some special
rules, described below.
As an action, you can throw a blasting weapon to a point
of your choice within Close range by making a DC 15 CMB
(Throwing) check, or within Short range but with disadvantage
on the check. The targeted point does not necessarily have to
be visible, but the thrown weapon must have a way to get there
(for example, with the target being behind a low wall, beyond
an open door or around a corner).
If the check is successful, the weapon explodes exactly in the
point of your choice. Otherwise, it explodes 1d3 meters away from
the chosen point, in a direction randomly determined by the GM.
In any case, all creatures within the area of effect generated by
the weapon suffer its effects.
A character who possesses the Explosives skill adds the relative
bonus to the DCs of saving throws against blasting weapons
thrown or placed by them.
TWO-WEAPON FIGHTING
When you take the Attack action and attack with a light weapon that
you’re holding in one hand, you can use a minor action to attack with a
different light weapon that you’re holding in the other hand. However,
you don’t add your ability score to the damage of the bonus attack.
This rule applies for both melee and ranged attacks (such as throwing
weapons like knives or using other ranged weapons that require one
hand, such as pistols).
MELEE ATTACKS
Melee attacks are used in close combat, against targets within
your reach, usually using hand-held weapons (swords, axes, etc.)
or unarmed strikes (punches, kicks and the like). Many creatures
make melee attacks using claws, hooves, horns, teeth, or some
other body part that acts as “natural weapons”. Many psionic
powers and other effects also involve making a melee attack.
The reach of a melee attack indicates the maximum distance
at which it can strike a target. Most characters and creatures
have a reach of 1 meter. Certain creatures (typically those larger
than Medium) have melee attacks with greater reach, as noted in
their description. Weapons with the Reach property increase your
melee range by a certain amount, allowing you to strike farther.
CONTESTS IN MELEE COMBAT
Instead of making a normal melee attack, you can perform one
of the special moves described below, each of them requiring an
opposed ability check between you and the target. If you’re able
to make multiple attacks with the Attack action, performing one
of these moves replace one of them.
Grappling: When you want to grab a creature or wrestle with it,
you can make a special melee attack, a grapple. The target of your
grapple must be no more than one size larger than you and must
be within your reach (the extra reach provided by a weapon does
not apply). Using at least one free hand, you try to seize the target
by making a CMB (Wrestling) check contested by the target’s
CMB (Wrestling) or DEX (Acrobatics) check (the target chooses
the ability to use). If you succeed, you subject the target to the
grappled condition (see “Conditions”). The condition specifies the
things that end it, and you can release the target whenever you
like (no action required).
A grappled creature can use its action to escape. To do so, it
must succeed on a CMB (Wrestling) or DEX (Acrobatics) against
the grappler’s CMB (Wrestling) check.
While grappling, you can move dragging or carrying the
grappled creature with you, but your speed is halved, unless
the creature is two or more sizes smaller than you.
While grabbing a creature, you can also use your action to try
to immobilize it, making another opposed check as explained
above. If you succeed, you place both you and the creature in the
restrained condition (see “Conditions”) until the start of your next
turn. While immobilizing an opponent you can (if you want) stop
him from speaking.
Disarming: You can make a special melee attack to knock
a weapon or another object off a target’s grasp. To do so, you
make a CMB check contested by the target’s CMB check. Both
you and the target apply to the check the skill appropriate to the
weapon you are using. If not holding weapons, you can apply the
Wrestling skill. You have disadvantage on the check if the target
is holding the weapon or object with two or more hands.
If you win the contest, the attack cause no damage or other ill
effect, but the target drops the item, which falls to the ground
within its space.
Shoving: You can make a special melee attack to shove
a creature, either to knock it prone or push it away from you.
The target must be no more than one size larger than you and
must be within your reach. Instead of making an attack roll, you
make a CMB (Wrestling) check contested by the target’s CMB
(Wrestling) or DEX (Acrobatics) check (the target chooses
the ability to use).
If you win, you either knock the target prone or push it 2 meter
away from you, either backwards or sideways (at your choice).
Some weapons can be used to trip a target. In that case, you
can apply the skill related to the weapon to the check instead
of Wrestling, but only to knock the target prone.
CHAPTER 1: THE RULES 23
 AREAS OF EFFECT
Some weapons (such as grenades) and various special abilities
(such as many psionic powers) generate effects that cover an area,
allowing them to affect multiple creatures at once. These attacks
do not require an attack roll but force the targets in the affected
area to make a saving throw, indicated in the description of the
effect or weapon used, alongside the relative DC.
The description also reports the extent and type of the area of
effect, which typically has one of five different shapes: cone, cube,
cylinder, line or sphere. Every area of effect has a point of origin,
a location from which the effect energy erupts, and the rules for
each shape specify how to place it. Typically, a point of origin
is a point in space, but some effects have an area that originates
from a creature or object.
The effect expands in straight lines from its point of origin.
If no unblocked straight line extends from the point of origin to
a location within the area of effect (due to an obstruction), that
location isn’t included in the area of effect. To block one of these
imaginary lines, an obstruction must provide total cover (see
“Cover”, above).
CONE
A cone extends in a direction you choose from its point of origin,
which is not included in the area of effect, unless you decide
otherwise. A cone’s width at a given point along its length is equal
to that point’s distance from the point of origin. A cone’s area of
effect specifies its maximum length.
CUBE
You select a cube’s point of origin, which lies anywhere on a face
of the cubic effect. The cube’s size is expressed as the length of
each side. A cube’s point of origin is not included in its area of
effect, unless you decide otherwise.
CYLINDER
A cylinder’s point of origin is the center of a circle of a particular
radius, as given in the effect description, and is therefore included
in the area of effect. The circle must either be on the ground or
at the height indicated for the cylinder. The energy in a cylinder
expands in straight lines from the point of origin to the perimeter
of the circle, forming the base of the cylinder. The effect then
shoots up from the base or down from the top, depending on what
produces it, to a distance equal to the height of the cylinder.
LINE
A line extends from its point of origin in a straight path up to its
length in a direction of your choice, and covers an area defined
by its width. A line’s point of origin is not included in its area of
effect, unless you decide otherwise.
SPHERE
A sphere extends outward in all directions from its point of origin,
which is therefore included in the area of effect. The sphere’s size
is expressed as a radius in meters that extends outward from the
point of origin.
24 CHAPTER 1: THE RULES
DURATION
Many attacks cause immediate and instantaneous effects, such as
a sword slash or a gunshot. Differently, some special abilities and
psionic powers allow you to generate effects that last over time.
INSTANTANEOUS
Many effects are instantaneous. They harm, heal, create, or alter
a creature or an object in a way that can’t be undone, since their
power exists only for an instant. Unless otherwise noted, an effect
has an instantaneous duration.
FIXED OR CONDITIONAL
Some effects have a fixed duration indicated in their description,
expressed in rounds, minutes, hours or even years. Others
terminate upon the occurrence of a specific condition or event:
• Until the start of the character’s next turn.
• Until the end of the character’s next turn.
• Until the end of the encounter.
• The effect ends when the target succeeds on a saving throw
against a DC determined by the effect.
CONCENTRATION
Some effects require you to maintain concentration in order to
keep them active. If you lose concentration, the effect will end.
If an effect must be maintained with concentration, that fact
appears in its description alongside how long you can concentrate
on it. You can end concentration at any time (no action required).
Normal activities, such as moving and attacking, doesn’t interfere
with concentration. The following factors can break concentration:
• Perform another effect that requires concentration. You
lose concentration on an effect if you use another power
or special ability that requires concentration. You can’t
concentrate on two effect at once.
• Taking damage. Whenever you take damage while you are
concentrating on an effect, you must make a STR (Stamina) or
INT (Lucidity) saving throw to maintain your concentration.
The DC equals 13 or half the damage you take, whichever
number is higher. If you take damage from multiple sources,
you make a separate saving throw for each source of damage.
• Being incapacitated or killed. You lose concentration on an
effect if you are incapacitated or if you die.
The GM might also decide that certain environmental
phenomena, such as a wave hitting you while on the deck of a
ship in the middle of a storm, require you to succeed on a DC 15
INT (Lucidity) saving throw to maintain concentration on the effect.
DAMAGE
Injury and the risk of death are constant companions of those who
live a life of adventure. A shot from a laser rifle or pistol, a stab, the
slash of a sword, the explosion of a grenade, all have the potential
to damage, if not kill, the hardiest of creatures.
DAMAGE ROLLS
Each weapon, effect, or special ability that deals damage specifies
the damage it deals. You roll the damage die (or dice), add any
appropriate modifiers, and apply the damage to your target.
Special weapons, powers, and other factors can grant a bonus
to damage.
When attacking with a weapon, you add your Strength score
to the damage if it’s a melee attack, or your Perception score
if it’s a ranged attack. Powers and special abilities tell you which
dice to roll for damage and whether to add any modifiers.
If an effect deals damage to more than one target at the same
time, roll the damage once for all of them. For example, when you
throw a grenade, the damage caused by the explosion is rolled
once for all creatures caught in the area of effect.
DAMAGE TYPES
In this game, damage is divided into four main types, described
below. Damage types have no rules of their own, but other rules,
such as Armor Value and damage resistance, rely on them.
Rarely, some game elements may further specify the nature
of the damage (e.g. bludgeoning, cutting, burning, poison, etc.).
Kinetic damage derives from the impact with moving bodies.
They cause bruises, lacerations, perforations, and so on. They
are the most common type of damage in the game.
Energy damage derives from exposure to strong emissions
or energy sources of various kinds: corrosive, freezing, burning,
sonic and so on. They are produced by energy weapons, special
powers and many environmental effects.
Biotic damage is caused by diseases, poisons, toxic substances
and other effects that directly afflict the physiology and
metabolism of creatures.
Psychic damage results from psionic attacks, stress, emotional
trauma, and other effects that threaten creatures’ psychic health
and mental clarity.
OTHER EFFECTS OF ATTACKS
Instead of dealing damage, or in addition to, an attack can cause
other harmful effects.
Conditions: Some attacks inflict one or more debilitating
conditions on the target (see “Conditions”).
Forced movement: Some attacks force the target to move
in a specific way, such as a push from an enemy or the shock
wave of an explosion.
ARMOR VALUE
Some game elements (such as armor for example) grant an Armor
Value (AV) that protects against damage caused by attacks,
absorbing them in part.
The Armor Value fully applies against kinetic damage, while
it is halved (rounding down) against energy damage (for instance,
AV 5 is considered 2 against energy damage). Conversely, by their
very nature, biotic and psychic damage are not affected in any
way by Armor Value.
The Armor Value reduces the damage you take. For example, if
you have AV 4, when you are hit by an attack that deals 9 kinetic
damage, you reduce that damage by 4 and take only 5. If the
attack that hits you deals energy damage instead, you reduce such
damage by only 2, instead of 4. In any case, if the AV reduces the
damage suffered to 0, the attack doesn’t cause any damage.
If a single attack (or other source of damage) deals multiple types
of damage at the same time (for example both kinetic and energetic),
the armor value still applies only once, reducing the most favorable
damage type (in the example above, the kinetic damage).
The simplest method to obtain an Armor Value is to wear
armor. Many creatures possess innate AV, referred to as “natural
armor”. Other types of protections, psionic powers, talents, or
special abilities can grant an AV. Armor Values that comes from
different sources stack with each other.
RESISTANCE AND VULNERABILITY
Some creatures and objects are particularly difficult or unusually
easy to hurt with certain types of damage. If a creature or an object
has resistance to a damage type, damage of that type is halved
against it. Conversely, if a creature or an object has vulnerability
to a damage type, damage of that type is doubled against it.
Resistance and vulnerability are applied after all other
modifiers to damage. For example, a creature with resistance to
kinetic damage and AV 5 is hit by an attack that deals 25 kinetic
damage. The 25 damage is first reduced by 5 and then halved, so
the creature takes 10 damage.
Multiple instances of resistance or vulnerability that affect the
same damage type count as only one instance. For example, if
a creature has resistance to kinetic damage from two different
sources, the kinetic damage is however reduced only by half
against the creature.
VITALITY
The vitality points (VP) of a creature represents its
psycho-physical health and its physical and mental energies.
Each creature has an initial VP amount to which a certain
amount of VP is added for each of its levels. For player characters,
the initial VP pool they have at 1th level depends on their class,
and with each level obtained after 1th they gain 1 additional
vitality point. For creatures, both the initial VP and the amount
of VP they obtain at each level depend instead on their size.
Additionally, talents, class features, or other special abilities
can increase creatures’ vitality points.
The vitality points pool represents a creature’s maximum VP.
Conversely, a creature’s current vitality points can be any number
from the creature’s VP maximum down to 0, and it changes
frequently as the creature takes damage or receives healing.
The loss of vitality points has no effect on a creature’s
capabilities until the creature drops to 0 VP (see “Death” below).
CHAPTER 1: THE RULES 25
 DEATH
When characters (or other creatures) drop to 0 vitality points, they
either die outright or fall unconscious, as explained below.
INSTANT DEATH
Massive damage can kill you instantly. When damage reduces
you to 0 VP and there is damage remaining, you die if the
remaining damage exceeds your death threshold (calculated
as 10 + STR + WIL).
FALLING UNCONSCIOUS
If damage reduces you to 0 vitality points and fails to kill you,
you fall unconscious (see “Conditions”). In addition, you take
a level of exhaustion (see “Conditions”) and suffer a trauma (see
“Traumas”, below). This unconsciousness ends if you regain any
vitality points.
DEATH SAVING THROWS
Whenever you start your turn with 0 vitality points, you must
make a special saving throw, called a death saving throw, to
determine whether you creep closer to death or hang onto life.
Unlike other saving throws, this one isn’t tied to any ability score.
You are in the hands of fate, aided only by talents, powers and
features that improve your chances of survival.
Roll a d12. If the roll is 7 or higher, you succeed. Otherwise,
you fail. A success or failure has no effect by itself. On your third
success, you become stable (see below). On your third failure, you
die. The successes and failures don’t need to be consecutive; keep
track of both until you collect three of a kind. The number of both is
reset to zero when you regain any vitality points or become stable.
Rolling 1 or 12: When you make a death saving throw and roll
a 1 on the d12, it counts as two failures. If you roll a 12 on the
d12, you immediately become stable (see below).
Damage at 0 vitality points: If you take any damage while you
have 0 VP, you suffer a death saving throw failure. If the damage
is higher than your death threshold, you suffer instant death. Note
that any attack that hits an unconscious creature automatically
deals maximum damage if the attacker is adjacent to it.
STABILIZING A CREATURE
The best way to save a creature with 0 VP is to heal it. If healing
is unavailable, the creature can at least be stabilized so that it
no longer risks impending death.
You can use your action to bring first aid to a dying creature
and attempt to stabilize it, which requires a successful
INT (Medicine) check against a DC equal to 14 + the number
of trauma the creature has suffered.
If the creature is also bleeding, you must stop the bleeding
before you can stabilize it. You can do both with only one check
and consuming only one use of a first aid kit , but the DC of the
check increases by 2.
A stable creature doesn’t make death saving throws, even
though it has 0 vitality points, but it does remain unconscious.
The creature stops being stable, and must start making death
saving throws again, if it takes any damage. A stable creature
that isn’t healed regains 1 vitality point after 1d4 hours.
26 CHAPTER 1: THE RULES
ADVERSARIES AND DEATH
Most GMs have the characters’ foes die the instant they drop to
0 vitality points, rather than having them fall unconscious and
make death saving throws. Mighty villains and special NPCs are
common exceptions; the GM might have them fall unconscious
and follow the same rules as player characters.
Knocking a creature out: Sometimes an attacker wants to
incapacitate a foe, rather than deal a killing blow. When an attack
reduces a creature to 0 vitality points, the attacker can choose to
knock the creature out. This choice can be made the istant the
damage is dealt. The creature falls unconscious but is stable and
does not suffer any trauma.
TRAUMAS
Traumas are injuries or shocks which effects last over time
and are more difficult to heal than a simple loss of vitality points.
Traumas are divided into physical and psychic, depending on
whether they damage the physical or mental health of a creature.
Physical traumas are wounds such as lacerations, mutilations,
fractures, internal injuries, burns and the like, or metabolic
shocks such as vital organs fails, embolisms, necrosis and so on.
Psychic traumas are instead strong emotional shocks
that crack or sometimes break the psychological balance of a
character, causing mental disorders of various kinds and severity.
SUFFERING A TRAUMA
A creature takes one trauma whenever it’s reduced to 0 vitality
points. If so, the nature of the trauma depends on the type of
damage or effect that brought the creature to 0 VP. However,
creatures can also suffer trauma in other circumstances, including
the following:
• Suffering an effect that directly causes a trauma. In these
cases, the effect itself determines whether it is a physical
or psychic trauma.
• Being the target of an attack that generates an exploit or
failing a saving throw causing a setback can both sometimes
cause a trauma (see “Ability Checks”). The nature of the
trauma (physical or psychic) depends on the type of attack
or effect that caused it.
• At GM’s choice, disastrous accidents (such as falling from
great heights or being run over by rubble), or shocking
experiences (such as witnessing a tragic event), can cause
physical and psychic trauma respectively.
• Sometimes, the GM can decide that suffering a severe
physical trauma might also cause a psychic trauma.
TRAUMA EFFECTS
Each trauma causes specific effects that depend on its physical
or psychic nature. In addition, a trauma can be mild, with effects
that heal over time, or severe, involving permanent effects that
do not heal unless they are treated with special therapies or
techniques (see “Resting and healing”).
It is up to the GM to determine the type, effects, and severity of
a trauma, using the tables in this section. Most traumas are mild.
A trauma is severe if the effect or attack that causes it specifies so,
or if the damage inflicted by that attack or effect is higher than the
target’s death threshold. The GM can always decide that a trauma
is severe based on circumstances and common sense. The effects
of traumas stack with each other.
Physical traumas, especially severe ones, can leave flashy scars
which, if not removed, can add interesting details to a character’s
or creature’s appearance.
 MILD PSYCHIC TRAUMAS (SHOCK)
d10 Effects
1 You have the instinct to repeat a certain gesture over and over.
2 You experience vivid hallucinations, you have disadvantage
on all ability checks.
3 You suffer from extreme paranoia, you have disadvantage on
INT and WIL checks and struggle to trust your mates, friends
and loved ones too.
4 You have an overwhelming instinct to eat something disgusting,
be it garbage, mud or offal.
MILD PHYSICAL TRAUMAS (INJURIES) 5 You begin to stutter and are no longer able to speak normally or
completely lose the ability to speak.
d12 Location Effects
6 You feel terrified of something and you must succeed on a DC 16
1 Head You are stunned until the end of your next turn
WIL (Fortitude) save every time you see it, otherwise you become
Your PER or INT score decreases by 1.
frightened until that thing is no longer in your line of sight
2–4 Torso You are stunned until the end of your next turn
7 You experience uncontrollable tremors and tics, you have
Your STR or DEX score decreases by 1.
disadvantage on all ability checks.
5–6 Right arm You have disadvantage to any check involving
8 You suffer from transient amnesia. You keep your species traits and
7–8 Left arm the use of the injured arm.
class features, but don't recognize other people and don't remember
9–10 Right leg You have disadvantage on any check involving the anything about what happened before you suffered the trauma.
11–12 Left leg use of the injured leg. Your speed is reduced by
9 You become attached to a “lucky charm”, such as a person or an
2 meters. After taking the Dash action, you must
object, and you have disadvantage on all ability checks while more
succeed on a DC 13 DEX (Reflex) saving throw or
than 10 meters away from it.
falling prone.
10 You become submissive and obey whatever you are told to do that
is not blatantly self-destructive.
SEVERE PHYSICAL TRAUMAS (IMPAIRMENTS)
General effects
SEVERE PSYCHIC TRAUMA (MENTAL DISORDERS)
• You are stunned until the end of your next turn.
General effects
• You are bleeding until that condition is eliminated.
• Your INT, WIL or TEC score decreases by 1.
• Each time you attempt an action during your turn you must make a
• Each time you attempt an action during your turn you must make
DC 15 STR (Stamina) saving throw. If you fail, you lose the action and
a DC 15 INT (Lucidity) saving throw. If you fail, you lose the action
can't take reaction until the start of your next turn.
and can’t take reaction until the start of your next turn.
• You suffer a specific effect from the table below.
• You suffer a specific effect from the table below.
d12 Location Specific effects (permanent)
d8 Specific effects (permanent)
1 Head Your PER or INT score decreases by 1.
1 Dissociative disorders (hallucinations, amnesia, multiple personalities)
2–4 Torso Your STR or DEX score decreases by 1.
2 Anxiety or mood disorders (panic attacks, hyperactivity, phobias,
5–6 Right arm Compromised arm: You can only hold one object manias, obsessive-compulsive or bipolar disorders, PTSD, depression)
7–8 Left arm at a time and you can no longer hold anything
3 Impulse disorders (kleptomania, uncontrolled anger attacks,
with two hands.
pathological lying, pyromania, compulsive gambling)
If you lose the use of both arms you can no
longer hold anything. 4 Eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia, pica, etc.)
9–10 Right leg Compromised leg: Your speed is halved and you 5 Psychotic and personality disorders (schizophrenia, delusions of
11–12 Left leg have to use a cane or crutch to walk; after taking omnipotence, paranoia, megalomania, misanthropy, narcissism, etc.)
the Dash action you fall prone. 6 Sleep disorders (nightmares, sleepwalking, insomnia, etc.)
If you lose the use of both legs, your speed
is reduced to one third and you can only move 7 Psychosomatic disorders (somatic symptoms, hypochondriasis)
by crawling. 8 Sexual disorders (nymphomania, exhibitionism, fetishism, etc.)

CHAPTER 1: THE RULES 27

 CONDITIONS DEAFENED
• A deafened creature can’t hear and automatically fails any
Conditions alter a creature’s capabilities in several ways and
ability check that requires hearing.
can arise as a result of an attack, special ability, psionic power,
or some other effect. Most conditions are impairments, but
FRIGHTENED
a few can be advantageous in certain situations.
• A frightened creature has disadvantage on all ability checks
A condition lasts either until it is countered (the prone
while the source of its fear is within line of sight.
condition is countered by standing up, for example) or for a
• The creature can’t willingly move closer to the source of its fear.
duration specified by the effect that imposed the condition itself.
If multiple effects impose the same condition on a creature, each
GRAPPLED
instance of the condition has its own duration, but the condition’s
• A grappled creature’s speed becomes 0, and it can’t benefit
effects don’t get worse. A creature either has a condition
from any bonus to its speed.
or doesn’t.
• The creature has disadvantage to any action other than
The following definitions specify what happens to a creature
attacking the grappler or trying to break free.
while it is subjected to a condition.
• The condition ends if the grappler is incapacitated
(see the condition).
BLEEDING
• The condition also ends if an effect removes the grappled
• The creature loses blood and takes 1 biotic damage at the end
creature from the reach of the grappler or grappling effect,
of each of its turns.
such as when a creature is hurled away by an explosion.
• The damage caused by bleeding cannot be healed unless the
bleeding is stopped first.
HINDERED
• As an action, a character can consume one use of a first aid
• A hindered creature’s speed is halved.
kit and make a DC 16 INT (Medicine) check in contact with a
• During its turn, the creature can only take one action
bleeding creature (including himself). If the check succeed, the
or one minor action, but not both.
creature stop bleeding and the bleeding condition is removed.
• If the creature makes a reaction, it won’t be able to take any
actions or minor actions on its next turn.
BLINDED
• A blinded creature can’t see and automatically fails any ability
INCAPACITATED
check that requires sight.
• An incapacitated creature can’t take any actions, minor actions
• Attack rolls against the creature have advantage, and the
or reactions.
creature’s attack rolls have disadvantage.
• Any other creature is considered invisible to a blinded creature
INVISIBLE
• An invisible creature is impossible to see without the help of
CHARMED
special senses or technological aids. For the purpose of hiding,
• A charmed creature can’t attack the charmer or target the
the creature is obscured. The creature’s location can still be
charmer with harmful abilities or effects.
detected by any noise it makes or any tracks it leaves.
• The charmer has advantage on any ability check to interact
• Attack rolls against the creature have disadvantage, and the
socially with the creature.
creature’s attack rolls have advantage.
DAZZLED
PARALYZED
• A dazzled creature has disadvantage on attack rolls and any
• A paralyzed creature is incapacitated and can’t move or speak.
Perception check that requires sight.
• The creature automatically checks that require physical
action, but can perform purely mental tasks.
• Attack rolls against the creature have advantage.
• Any attack that hits a paralyzed creature automatically deals
maximum damage if the attacker is adjacent to it.

28 CHAPTER 1: THE RULES

PRONE
• A prone creature’s is lying on the ground and its only
movement option is to crawl, unless it stands up and thereby
ends the condition.
• The creature has disadvantage on melee attack rolls.
• An attack roll against the creature has advantage if the attacker
is adjacent to it. Otherwise, the attack roll has disadvantage.
• A prone creature can stand up using 3 meters of its speed.
RESTRAINED
• A restrained creature’s speed becomes 0, and it can’t benefit
from any bonus to its speed.
• Attack rolls against the creature have advantage, and the
creature’s attack rolls have disadvantage.
• The creature has disadvantage on Dexterity checks.
SICKENED
• A sickened creature has disadvantage on all ability checks
due to malaise, pain, or disorientation.
STUNNED
• A stunned creature is incapacitated, can’t move, and
can speak only falteringly.
• The creature has disadvantage on all ability checks.
• Attack rolls against the creature have advantage.
UNCONSCIOUS
• An unconscious creature is incapacitated, can’t move
or speak, and is unaware of its surroundings
• The creature drops whatever it’s holding and falls prone.
• The creature automatically fails any ability checks that
require physical actions.
• Attack rolls against the creature have advantage.
• Any attack that hits an unconscious creature automatically
deals maximum damage if the attacker is adjacent to it.
• A sleeping creature is considered unconscious but can use
its Perception passively with a -5 penalty. It will wake up
if it hears a loud noise, is shaken or if it takes damage.
OVERLOAD (SPECIAL)
Overloading is a special condition that results from carrying
a weight greater than one’s carrying capacity (CC). It has the
following effects:
• If a creature carries a weight greater than its CC but equal
to or less than twice that value, it is hindered.
• A creature can instead push, drag or lift a weight greater than
twice its CC and up to 5 times that value, but while doing so
the creature is hindered and cannot perform any actions
(apart from continuing to hold or move the weight).
Carrying capacity and size: A creature’s size affects the
weight it can carry. For each size category above Medium, double
the creature’s carrying capacity. For a Tiny creature, halve the
carrying capacity.
EXHAUSTION (SPECIAL)
The lack of rest, as well as other dangerous effects or
environmental hazards (such as starvation, high altitudes, etc.),
can lead to a special condition called exhaustion. Exhaustion is
measured in six levels, as shown in the following table.
EXHAUSTION
Exhaustion level Effect
1 Disadvantage on STR and DEX checks
2 Sickened
3 Hindered
4 Vitality point maximum halved
5 Speed reduced to 0
6 Unconscious and reduced to 0 vitality points
The effects of exhaustion levels are cumulative. For example,
a creature with 3 levels of exhaustion is sickened and hindered.
An effect can give a creature one or more levels of exhaustion,
as specified in its description. If an already exhausted creature
suffers another effect that causes exhaustion, its level of
exhaustion increases by the amount specified in the description
of the effect.
The conditions imposed by exhaustion cannot be removed
except by decreasing the level of exhaustion. An effect that
removes exhaustion reduces the target’s level of exhaustion by
the amount specified in its description, with all exhaustion effects
ending if a creature’s exhaustion level is reduced below 1.
Finishing a full rest reduces a creature’s exhaustion level by
1, provided that the creature has eaten and drunk enough (see
“Resting and Healing,” further on).
The levels of exhaustion caused by some specific effects (such
as starvation or radiation) require specific care and cannot be
removed simply by resting.
CHAPTER 1: THE RULES 29
 RESTING AND HEALING
Unless it results in death, damage is not permanent. Rest and
medical care can restore a creature’s vitality points, and over
time, even traumas heals. In addition, psionic powers, drugs and
advanced technologies are able to perform real wonders, such as
instantly restoring vitality points, canceling fatigue, neutralizing
poisons and diseases in a short time or even triggering tissue
regeneration.
REGAINING VITALITY POINTS
A creature can restore its vitality points pool by resting (see
below) or by receiving medical treatment that heals a certain
amount of vitality points.
A creature’s vitality points can never exceed its vitality point
maximum, so any vitality points regained in excess of this number
are lost. For example, if a character with 20 current vitality points
and a vitality maximum of 28 is healed by 10 vitality points, he or
she regains only 8 vitality points from healing, not 10.
RECOVERING FROM TRAUMAS
Healing from trauma takes time and proper care.
At the end of each full rest (see below), a creature makes a DC
15 saving throw for each trauma that afflicts it. The saving throws
are STR (Stamina) for physical traumas and VOL (Fortitude) for
psychic traumas. Keep track of the successes obtained for each
trauma. After three successes (not necessarily consecutive) a
trauma heals and its non-permanent effects disappear. At the
GM’s discretion, it may take more or less successes to heal from
certain trauma.
In addition, most traumas require adequate treatment in
order to heal (such as medications or counseling). Without such
assistance, the creature has disadvantage on the saving throws
needed to heal.
If a creature engages in strenuous activities (such as fighting,
marching for a long time, etc.), it has disadvantage on saving
throws made to heal from traumas at the end of its next full rest.
On the contrary, if the creature spends its time recuperating,
avoiding getting tired, it gains advantage on those saving throws.
Healing from permanent effects: The permanent effects of the
most severe trauma can only be healed through special procedures
(such as surgery, psychological therapies, or specific technological
or psionic effects). Some creatures possess the innate ability
to spontaneously heal from the permanent effects of trauma.
30 CHAPTER 1: THE RULES
RESTING
Heroic though they might be, adventurers need rest: time to sleep,
eat, heal wounds, laze, refresh the mind and spirit.
A rest is a period of inactivity during which a character catches
his or her breath and regains energy by relaxing, sleeping, or
doing light activities such as talking, reading or tending wounds.
A short rest takes about an hour. However, on a regular basis,
one of the rests made by a character must be a full rest, which
requires at least 8 uninterrupted hours. The frequency depends
on the character’s species. For example, terrans need a full rest
every 24 hours.
Whenever a character does not take a full rest within that time,
a character gain a level of exhaustion at the end of that period
(see “Conditions”).
A character cannot take a full rest until at least half of the
hours indicated for his species have elapsed since the end of the
previous full rest. For example, for a terran at least 12 hours must
elapse between the end of a full rest and the beginning of the next.
If a rest (both normal and full) is interrupted by a strenuous
activity (such as marching for at least 1 hour, fighting or the like)
the character must begin the rest again to gain any benefit from it.
A character must have at least 1 vitality point at the start of a
rest to gain its benefits.
BENEFITS OF REST
Resting guarantees the following benefits.
• At the end of each rest, a character regains an amount
of vitality points equal to 1d6 + STR.
• Finishing a full rest reduces the character’s level of exhaustion
by 1 (see “Conditions”), provided that he or she was able
to eat and drink enough. The levels of exhaustion caused
by some specific effects (such as radiation, see “Exploration”)
are not eliminated by rest.
• Finishing a full rest allows a character to make a saving throw
to heal from traumas (see above).
• Many characters’ special features can only be used a limited
number of times before needing to rest. In those cases, a
character regains all spent uses at the end of a rest. Some
features require to finish a full rest in order to recover their
use, as specified in their description.
• If a character possesses psi points, at the end of a long rest
he or she regains all the psi points spent.
RESTING WHILE WEARING ARMOR
If you wear armor during a full rest, you must make a STR (Stamina)
check, DC 14 for light armor, DC 16 for medium armor, or DC 18
for heavy armor. If you succeed, you get the benefits of rest,
otherwise not.
PSIONIC POWERS
Some individuals and creatures are able to tap into the boundless
potential of the mind, called psionics, by developing exceptional
psionic capabilities.
Put simply, psionics represent the ability to exploit the potential
of the mind to influence the fabric of reality, bending it to one’s will.
The effects of this mental manipulation are called psionic powers.
A psionic power is a single psychic manifestation that alters
reality according to the will of the mind that generates it. Psionic
powers can be versatile tools, effective protections, or deadly
weapons; they can inflict damage or heal them, impose or remove
conditions (see “Conditions”) and much more.
In manifesting a power, a creature draws on its mental strength,
channeling it outwards to create the desired effect. In most cases,
the whole process takes only a few moments.
PSIONIC DISCIPLINES
Psionic powers are grouped into six Disciplines: illusion,
metabiosis, metareality, telepathy, telekinesis and
clairvoyance.
A psionicist must have access to a Discipline in order to learn
powers that belong to it. Sometimes, learning a power isn’t easy
even with that access. In this sense, it is up to the GM to determine
which powers are automatically (or easily) available and which
ones need to be discovered (or rediscovered) in some way.
Characters who undertake the Psi class immediately have
access to a Discipline and will access other Disciplines as their
level increases. Other characters may gain access to a psionic
discipline through talents or other special features. Additionally,
some characters or creatures may have access to a specific power
or a limited list of powers, thanks to special abilities or traits.
In these cases, access to these powers is automatic and is not
linked to the Disciplines.
PSI POINTS
Tapping into psychic energy is physically and mentally
unnerving. It is therefore possible to manifest only a limited
number of powers before having to rest.
A character who can manifest psionic powers has a pool of psi
points. Each power has a psi point cost that must be spent in order
to manifest it. If you don’t have enough psi points left to cover the
cost of a power, you can’t manifest it. Finishing a full rest restores
all psi points spent (see “Rest and Healing”).
Sometimes, a creature might have special abilities that allow it
to manifest psionic powers without consuming psi points. In these
cases, the number of times these powers can be manifested before
needing to rest is specified. Also, since they do not require psi
points, these powers cannot be incremented by spending a higher
number of psi points (see “Manifesting powers,” below).
PRAXIS
A praxis is a minor psionic power. Unlike actual psionic powers,
praxis can be performed at will, without having to spend any psi
points. Although each praxis is related to a Discipline (or more
than one), they do not actually belong to any of them, being basic
exercises that can be learned by all psionicists.
Given their simple and instinctive nature, praxis are often used
even by individuals lacking the ability to manifest psionic powers
(some species traits, talents or other special features grant the
ability to manifest one or more praxis).
MANIFESTING POWERS
When a character manifests a psionic power, the following general
rules are used. Each power description begins with a block of
information, including the power’s name, discipline, manifestation
time, range, duration, and psi points cost. The rest of a power
entry describes its effect.
PSI POINTS COST
Each psionic power has a psi points cost that you must spend
in order to manifest it, as explained above.
Many powers include various options you can choose from
to generate different effects, each of which shows its cost
in psi points (in parentheses next to each effect’s name).
However, when you manifest a power, you can spend
a maximum number of psi points equal to your psionic limit.
As a result, if the base cost of the power (or one of its effects)
is greater than that value, you won’t be able to manifest it.
When you manifest a psionic power you can decide to
increment it, which means you spend a number of psi points
higher than its base cost, up to a maximum equal to your psionic
limit. As the psi points spent increase, the effects of the power
become more and more powerful, as noted in its description.
Some powers cannot be increased, since their effects would
not be improved.
MANIFESTATION TIME
Most psionic powers require a single action to manifest, but some
powers require instead a minor action, a reaction, or much more
time to be manifested.
Minor action: These powers are especially swift. If you
manifest a power as a minor action, you cannot manifest another
power in the same turn using your action, unless it is a praxis.
Reaction: Some powers take a split second to bring about and
can be manifested in response to an event. If a power can be
manifested as a reaction, its description tells you exactly when
you can do so.
CHAPTER 1: THE RULES 31
 Longer manifestation times: Certain powers require more
time to cast: minutes or even hours. When you manifest powers
with a manifestation time longer than a single action or reaction,
you must spend your action each turn for the indicated time,
and you must maintain your concentration while you do so (see
“Duration”). If your concentration is interrupted, the power fails
but you don’t expend psi powers. If you want to try to manifest
it again, you must start over.
RANGE
The target of a psionic power must be within the power’s range.
For many powers the target is a creature. For those powers that
generate areas of effect, the target is the point in space from
which they originate.
Usually, psionic powers have ranges expressed in distance
categories (see “Combat”, above). Some powers can target only
a creature (including you) that you touch. The powers that affect
only you have a range of self. Powers that create cones or lines
of effect that originate from you also have a range of self,
indicating that the point of origin of the power’s effect must
be you (see “Areas of effect”).
Once a power is manifested, its effects aren’t limited by its
range, unless the power’s description says otherwise.
DURATION
The duration of a power is the amount of time it persists. As with
many other effects, psionic powers follow the rules about duration
described earlier in “Combat”.
A power’s duration is indicated under the Duration entry
of its description. If a power needs to be maintained through
concentration, this will be indicated under the same entry, along
with how long you can maintain concentration on it. Some powers
specify that their effects last indefinitely until they are dissolved
or destroyed.
TARGETS
A typical power requires you to pick one or more targets to be
affected by the power’s effects. A power’s description tells you
whether the spell targets creatures, objects, or a point of origin
for an area of effect.
Unless a power has a perceptible effect, a creature might not
know it was targeted by a power at all. An effect like crackling
lightning is obvious, but a more subtle effect, such as an attempt
to read a creature’s thoughts, typically goes unnoticed, unless a
power description says otherwise.
A clear path to the target: To target something, you must have
a clear path to it, so it can’t be behind total cover. This also applies
to the origin point of an area of effect. If you place an area of effect
in a point but an obstruction granting total cover, such as a wall,
is between you and that point, the point of origin comes into being
on the nearest side of that obstruction.
Targeting yourself: If a power targets a creature of your
choice, you can choose yourself, unless the creature must be
hostile or specifically a creature other than you. If you are in the
area of effect of a power you manifest, you can target yourself.
32 CHAPTER 1: THE RULES
AREAS OF EFFECT
Some psionic powers generate an area of effect, capable of
affecting multiple creatures at a time. In this case, the description
of the power specifies its area of effect. Powers follow the rules
about areas of effect described earlier in “Combat”.
PSIONIC ATTACKS AND PSIONIC FORCE
Some psionic powers require you to make an attack roll against
the target’s Defense to determine if their effect hits. This type
of attack is called a psionic attack and is resolved as follows.
PSIONIC ATTACK = 2D12 + INT (PSIONICS)
Most psionic attacks are ranged attacks. Remember that you
have disadvantage to ranged attack rolls if you are adjacent
to a hostile creature that can see you and is not incapacitated
(see “Combat”).
Other powers specify that a target must make a saving throw
to avoid some or all of their effects. The DC of these saving throws
is equal to your psionic force, calculated as follows.
PSIONIC FORCE= 12 + INT (PSIONICS)
When a power requires a saving throw, its description specifies
the ability (and skill) that the target uses for the save and what
happens on a success or failure.
COMBINING PSIONIC EFFECTS
The effects of different psionic powers add together while the
durations of those powers overlap. However, the effect of the
same power performed multiple times on the same target don’t
combine. Instead, the most potent effect – for example, the one
that has the highest psi points cost – will apply as long as the
durations overlap.
COUNTER-MANIFESTATION
A psionic user can utilize their psychic energy to contrast that of
another creature attempting to manifest a psionic power, in order
to prevent it. You can counter-manifest as a reaction, when you
see a creature within 20 meters of you manifesting a power. To do
so, you must spend an amount of psi points at least equal to those
used by the creature to manifest its power, up to your psionic limit.
If the psi points you spend are not enough, you consume them
anyway but your attempt to counter-manifest fails.
If instead they are enough, you make an INT (Psionics) check
with a DC equal to the creature’s psionic force. If you succeed,
the creature’s power fails and has no effect. Otherwise the power
takes effect as usual.
DISSIPATING PSIONIC POWERS
Similar to counter-manifestatin, you can dissipate an already
active psionic effect.
As an action, choose a creature, object or area within 20 meters
of you that is affected by an active psionic effects. To dissipate
the effect, you must spend an amount of psi points at least equal
to those used to create it, up to your psionic limit.
If the psi points you spend are not enough, you consume
them anyway but your attempt to dissipate the effect fails.
If instead they are enough, you make an INT (Psionics) check
with a DC equal to the psionic force of the creature that created the
psionic effect (if not specified, it is up to the GM to determine the
DC of the check). If the check is successful, the psionic effect ends.
EDGE CARDS
The use of EDGE cards is an optional rule that the GM can use to
reward players for role-playing their characters according to their
nature and personality.
Each EDGE card carries two sentences, each of which describes
some kind of event. It can be something simple or generic, like
“Something suddenly breaks” or “Someone trips and falls”, or
something more specific or that affects the rules, like “Someone
cheats death and miraculously clings to life” or “Someone hits
an ally by mistake”.
In any case, players who have EDGE cards can decide to use
them whenever they want, influencing the course of the adventure.
OBTAINING EDGE CARDS
The GM can give you an EDGE card for several reasons. GMs
usually do this when you bring your character to life in a
convincing way: role-playing his or her attitude and personality
traits, or in some other way that makes the game more engaging
or fun for everyone.
At other times, GMs use EDGE cards to promote a certain style
of play or emphasize a certain narrative genre. The GM will tell
you how you can get EDGE cards during the game.
When this happens, you draw a card from the EDGE deck made
available by the GM. You can have a maximum of three EDGE
cards at a time. If you already have three and you get to draw
another one, you can choose not to, keeping the cards you already
have, or you must discard one of them before drawing the new one.
Usually, EDGE cards are discarded at the end of the game
session. As a result, unused cards will be wasted. This should
encourage players to use their cards rather than keeping them.
USING EDGE CARDS
You can use an EDGE card at any point in the game, but you
are limited to using only one for each encounter, be it combat,
interaction, exploration, or any other type of scene. Also
remember that many EDGE cards will only really have some effect
if you play them at the right time.
When playing an EDGE card, you must choose one of the two
sentences written on it. The card will take effect immediately
and you will have to tell the GM and the other players how the
sentence you have chosen will affect the game, adding details and
trying to make the effect plausible in the context.
Sometimes it will be simple, especially if the card is particularly
suitable for the situation. Other times it may be more difficult or
perhaps create absurd or unmanageable consequences. In these
cases, the best thing is to decide the effects of the card together
with the GM and the other players, in order to find a solution on
which everyone agrees. Once played, the GM takes into account
the effects of the card, modifying the narrative accordingly.
Alternatively, you caa “burn” an EDGE card, playing it face down
without using its phrases, to gain advantage on one ability check.
Remember that you can also use EDGE cards for or against
creatures, NPCs or other players’ characters.
Each EDGE card played will be shuffled into the deck by the GM.
CHAPTER 1: THE RULES 33
 C HAPTER 2: THE CHARACTERS
This chapter presents and describes seven premade characters
ready to be used to play the introductory adventure of this
quickstarter.
These seven characters make up the crew of the ISV
Serendipity, a small independent exploratory spaceship.
GYRAN ATREVIUS
A humble son of the Outskirts, Gyrian managed to distinguish
himself thanks to a brilliant military career woven with firmness
and dedication. Driven to enlist by the desire to explore the
galaxy, he finally decided that he no longer wished to fight for
those who don’t deserve his respect. Since then, Gyran may seem
like another maverick among the many wolves of the Outer Edge,
but anyone who meets him soon discovers that the discipline
with which he steers his ship is matched only by the ferocity
with which he defends his crew.
GENERAL DATA
Species Valkarian
Gender Male
Background Wanderer (explorer)
Class Delta, level 5
Concept Veteran soldier, adventurer, leader
Role Captain
Disposition Order (primary), Impulse (secondary)
Peculiarities Rather taciturn but with an eloquent gaze
He can’t stand people who talk too much
Ideals Honor, duty, respect, hierarchy, survival
Bonds An old friend and comrade in arms, previous
owner of the ISV Serendipity
Flaws Tormented by bad memories of war
He struggles to respect superiors if he does not
consider them worthy of such respect
TYPICAL QUOTES
“Fear is crucial to survive. But it’s just a reaction, like anger. Courage
instead, courage is a decision. “
“On this ship there are no passengers, there is only crew.”
GAME ASPECTS
All the game aspects that you find mentioned on Gyran’s
character sheet are described below.
TRAITS
Gyran possesses the following traits.
Size: Medium.
Infravision (species): You can see in the dark as if it were dim
light and in dim light as if it were bright light. However, you can’t
discern color in darkness, only shades of gray.
Sensitive Eyes (species): You have disadvantage on ability
checks made against effects that make you dazzled or blinded.
Valkarian Discipline (species): You have advantage on ability
checks made against being frightened.
Path of the Hunt (species): You have advantage on any ability
check involving tactical and hunting issues.
34 CHAPTER 2: THE CHARACTERS
SPECIES: VALKARIAN
In the eyes of a human, valkarians look like the humanoid hybrid
between a reptile and a raptor, but the appearance is often deceiving.
Definitely more akin to mammals, valkarians are a native species
of the planet Talaras, a cool, lush but unforgiving planet whose
vast continents are covered with grasslands and forests where the
competition for survival is brutal.
Having evolved in this scenario starting from pack predators, the
valkarians base their society on efficiency, duty towards the community
and ancient traditions related to hunting and the concept of survival.
Thanks to their strong civic sense and their predatory and hierarchical
mentality, valkarians are renowned as soldiers and bureaucrats, and this
has made them one of the dominant species and one of the most feared
and respected military powers of the Known Space. Curiously, many
are unaware that, apart from the strict civic duties it imposes, Valkarian
society is one of the most permissive and tolerant of all.
Mask of the Wild (species): You can attempt to hide even
when you are only dimmed by foliage, heavy rain, falling snow,
fog, dust clouds, and similar natural effects.
Heat Intolerance (species): As a native of a cool planet, you
have disadvantage on ability checks made to resist the effects
hot climates exposure.
Rest (species): You need a full rest every 28 hours.
Space Wanderer (background): You are familiar with
cosmography and the major space travel routes. You know the
most important star systems and have probably heard of the
lesser known ones as well. If you fail an Intelligence check to
recall some information about space, you will still be aware
of a source to consult to obtain the answer you’re looking for,
unless the GM considers that information unknown.
Known languages: Valkarian, Terran and Espar.
FEATURES
Gyran possiede le seguenti capacità.
Action Surge (class feature): You can push yourself beyond
your normal limits for a moment. On your turn, you can take one
additional action on top of your regular action and minor action.
Once you use this feature, you must finish a rest before you can
use it again.
Danger Sense (class feature): You get a bonus on your
Initiative rolls and on your Defense equal to half your Combativity
score rounded down (already considered in the character sheet).
Extra Attack (class feature): You can attack twice, instead of
once, whenever you take the Attack action on your turn.
Favored weapons (class feature): When using kinetic
weapons, you gain the following benefits:
• When you hit, the weapon deals +1 extra damage (already
considered in the character sheet).
• You ignore the weapon Strength requirement.
• You have advantage on checks made to avoid being disarmed.
VANGUARD (TALENT)
Vanguards are trained in skirmishes and short-range clashes,
experts both in setting ambushes and in avoiding being ambushed.
Skirmisher: You are an expert in skirmish tactics. You get the
following benefits.
• On your turn, you can take the Defend or Disengage action as
a minor action.
• On your turn, if you hit a creature with a melee attack, you
don’t provoke opportunity attacks from that creature for the
rest of the turn.
• This feature includes another benefit that doesn’t come into
play during this quickstarter.

SHARPSHOOTER (TALENT)
Sharpshooters are capable of hitting their targets with precision
from enormous distances and in any situation.
Hawkeye: Your shooting training makes you deadly with
ranged weapons. You get the following benefits:
• When you use a ranged weapon, you non longer have
disadvantage on attack rolls if the target is beyond the weapon’s
range (if possible) nor if the target is in a dimmed area.
• When you take the Aim minor action while using a ranged
weapon, you get a +2 bonus (instead of +1) and you can
choose whether to apply this bonus to the attack roll
or the damage roll.

EQUIPMENT
Gyran’s equipment pieces that need explanation are described
below. On the character sheet you will find other equipment listed
not mentioned below. Don’t worry, the GM will be able to give you
all the information you need about them.

ARMAMENTS
Armor: Gyran wears a tactical recon armor (already considered
in his statistics) equipped with the following functions: HEV suit,
magnetic boots, flashlight, basic sensors, multiscanner, comlink.
The GM can provide you with further details on how these
functions work.
Tactical knife: Military knife. The serrated back of the blade
can act as a hacksaw, while the handle is hollow and houses small
utility items, such as needle, thread and scalpel.
Stun grenade (x2): Non-lethal device designed to incapacitate
targets. Each creature within 6 meters of an exploding stun
grenade must succeed a DC 16 DEX (Reflex) saving throw
or be blinded, deafened, and stunned until the end of its next turn.
Creatures that succeed on the save are still dazzled until the end
of their next turn.

GEAR
First aid kit: This kit contains everything you need to provide
first aid care. The kit has 10 uses. As an action, you can expend
one use of the kit to stabilize a creature that has 0 vitality points
without needing to make a INT (Medicine) check.
Survival gear: Assortment of useful tools including lighter,
flint and tinder, needle and thread, compass, shovel, ice ax,
hacksaw, telescopic pole (3 m open, 70 cm closed), grappling
hook and 20 meters of rope.
Tactical belt: Very useful belt with pockets, pouches and
hooks. It allows the character to keep many of the items useful
in exploration and combat close at hand.
Technical tools: They include a wide assortment of mechanical
and electronic tools and implements useful for manufacturing,
disassembling, reassembling, modifying and repairing any type
of technological equipment or device.

CHAPTER 2: THE CHARACTERS 35

 JORAG KOSH
“Life is like a Kergan woman. Whether you understand her or not.
She doesn’t give a f##k!”
There are lives woven on a frame of violence and abuse. Lives
that cling to the void between stars with lead fingers and golden
teeth. There are those who do not count the days till payday, but
know that they will count a good pay at the end of their days. And
that’s enough to inflate their sails with fury, and bring them down
like solar storms on the hulls of those who are luckier than them,
until they meet them. Everyone knows Jorag Kosh would have
killed, looted and kidnapped, for a fair price of course. Some
say he quit because of honor… at least for now.
GENERAL DATA
Species Kergan
Gender Male
Background Soldier (mercenary)
Class Delta, level 5
Concept Mercenary, outcast warrior, former marauder
Role Security officer
Disposition Individuality (primary), Order (secondary)
Peculiarities It’s hard to earn his respect
Often he doesn’t understand metaphors
Ideals Strength, honor, victory, glory, money
Bonds He craves revenge on those who have dishonored
him, relegating him to the life of an outcast
Flaws His former marauding comrades want him dead
He tends to react to provocations
TYPICAL QUOTES
“Reputation is what people know about you. Honor is what you know about
yourself. “
“Let me give you some advice: it’s really much better not to provoke me.”
GAME ASPECTS
All the game aspects that you find mentioned on Jorag’s character
sheet are described below.
TRAITS
Jorag possesses the following traits.
Size: Medium.
Mighty Structure (species): Due to your mighty physical
build, you are considered to be one size larger in order to
determine your carrying capacity and in any situation where
a larger size can have a positive effect.
Kergan Sight (species): You are immune from being dazzled.
Fatigue Endurance (Species): You have advantage on ability
checks made against effects that cause exhaustion.
Radiation Resistance (species): You consider the radiation
exposure one level lower than the level you are actually exposed to.
Cold Intolerance (species): As a native of a hot planet, you
have disadvantage on ability checks made to resist the effects cold
climates exposure.
Rest (species): You need a full rest every 20 hours. However
your full rest takes only 6 hours, instead of 8. Also, whenever you
would take an exhaustion level from not taking a full rest, you can
make a DC 20 STR (Stamina) saving throw to avoid taking it.
Mercenary Life (background): Thanks to your experience as a
mercenary, you are able to identify mercenary companies by their
36 CHAPTER 2: THE CHARACTERS
SPECIES: KERGAN
Kergans are a species of mighty reptile-like humanoids, endowed with
great strength and a belligerent disposition.
Their home planet, Ragash, orbits in a binary system and this has
strongly influenced both the biological and social evolution of the kergan.
On the one hand, it made this species extremely resistant and capable of
surviving in the harsh, torrid and irradiated landscapes of Ragash. On the
other hand, it has led them to view life with ruthless predatory cynicism.
The days on Ragash are in fact marked by one sun chasing the other,
in a fratricidal cycle that serves as the ultimate confirmation of a life
divided between hunters and prey.
Honor, meritocracy and ambition rule one of the harshest and most
selective societies in the Known Space. From birth, kergans learn about
competition and the taste of triumph and failure, in an intricate series
of archaic traditions often labeled as barbaric by other species. Ragash
natives laugh proudly at such labels, knowing that “talking is cheap”
and that respect has never been denied to anyone who has proven
themselves worthy of a kergan.
emblem, and you know a little about any such company, including
the names and reputations of its commanders and leaders, and
who has hired them recently. In any location, you can easily
find the places where mercenaries abide, as long as you speak
the local language. Between adventures you can find mercenary
work sufficient to maintain a comfortable lifestyle.
Known languages: Kergan and Espar.
FEATURES
Jorag possesses the following features.
Action Surge (class feature): You can push yourself beyond
your normal limits for a moment. On your turn, you can take one
additional action on top of your regular action and minor action.
Once you use this feature, you must finish a rest before you can
use it again.
Danger Sense (class feature): You get a bonus on your
Initiative rolls and on your Defense equal to half your Combativity
score rounded down (already considered in the character sheet).
Extra Attack (class feature): You can attack twice, instead of
once, whenever you take the Attack action on your turn.
Favored Weapons (class feature): When using cold weapons,
you gain the following benefits:
• When you hit, the weapon deals +1 extra damage (already
considered in the character sheet).
• You ignore the weapon Strength requirement.
• You have advantage on checks made to avoid being disarmed.
GLADIATOR (TALENT)
A gladiator is a fighter specialized in the use of melee weapons.
Charger: When you use your action to Dash, you can use
a minor action to make one melee weapon attack or to shove
a creature. If you move at least 3 meters in a straight line
immediately before taking this minor action, you either gain a
+5 bonus to the attack’s damage roll (if you chose to make an
attack and hit) or push the target up to 3 meters away from
you (if you chose to shove and you succeed).
 
PHYSICAL ENDURANCE (TALENT)
You are able to withstand pain more and bear the brunt of injuries.
Second Wind: You take advantage of your stamina well and
regain vitality during a fight. On your turn, you can use a minor
action to regain vitality points equal to 1d6 + STR. Once you use
this feature, you must finish a rest before you can use it again.
EQUIPMENT
Jorag’s equipment pieces that need explanation are described
below. On the character sheet you will find other equipment listed
not mentioned below. Don’t worry, the GM will be able to give you
all the information you need about them.

ARMAMENTS
Armor: Jorag wears a tactical battle armor (already considered
in his statistics) equipped with the following functions: HEV suit,
magnetic boots, flashlight, basic sensors, multiscanner, comlink.
The GM can provide you with further details on how these
functions work.
Tactical knife: Military knife. The serrated back of the blade
can act as a hacksaw, while the handle is hollow and houses small
utility items, such as needle, thread and scalpel.
Heavy rifle: A heavy rifle can fire in burst mode. If you do so,
you make a special attack that creates a cone-shaped area that
spreads up to close range. Each creature in the area must make
a DC 16 DEX (Reflex) saving throw, taking the normal damage
of the attack on a failed save, or half as much damage on
a successful one. The action consumes 6 shots.
Plasma grenade (x1): When exploding, it generates a powerful
plasma detonation. Each creature within 6 meters of an exploding
plasma grenade must make a DC 16 DEX (Reflex) saving throw,
taking 5d6 energy damage on a failed save, or half as much
damage on a successful one. Anyone who fails the roll is also
knocked prone.

GEAR
Bolt cutter: Large cutter capable of cutting padlocks, chains,
and similar metallic seals up to 10 mm in diameter. To effectively
use a bolt cutter you must make a DC 16 STR (Might) check.
Crowbar: Using a crowbar gives advantage to any STR checks
whenever its lever can be applied.
Rope (20 meters): A rope made of a woven synthetic fiber.
It can support up to 800 kg indefinitely. For loads greater than
that, the rope has a 50% chance of breaking each round. The rope
breaks if it takes 6 or more damage and can be broken with a DC
23 STR (Might) check.
Tactical belt: Very useful belt with pockets, pouches and
hooks. It allows the character to keep many of the items useful
in exploration and combat close at hand.

CHAPTER 2: THE CHARACTERS 37

 MIKAYA “MIKE” MAHANVARI
It is said that in Mike’s crib her father did not put rattles and
stuffed toys, but torque wrenches and resonance collimators.
She grew up among the workbenches of a small family-run
workshop where she learned everything that later made her
infamous among the gun batteries and plasma howitzers of the
Confederation cruisers. It was there that she met Gyrian, who
wanted her on the Serendipity when he abandoned his uniform.
She has never returned to her father’s house, even though from
what she says it seems she is never far enough.
GENERAL DATA
Species Terran
Gender Female
Background Engineer
Class Sigma, level 5
Concept Expert mechanic and technician, handyman
Role First officer, chief engineer
Disposition Community (primary), Reason (secondary)
Peculiarities She loves her work and loves talking about it
She’s a perfectionist in everything she does
Ideals Loyalty, responsibility, generosity, technology
Bonds Her tools of the trade are precious memories of
her past and roots
Flaws She often talks too much and without thinking
She finds machines more reliable than people
TYPICAL QUOTES
“If I can’t fix it, then we’re really screwed.”
“You can always trust machines, you just need to understand them, but
with people... with people you can never be sure.”
GAME ASPECTS
All the game aspects that you find mentioned on Mikaya’s
character sheet are described below.
TRAITS
Mikaya possesses the following traits.
Size: Medium.
Eclectic Experience (species): You get a second background
trait (see below).
Versatility (species): You obtain the Mixed Training feat (this
trait is not relevant to this quickstarter).
Rest (species): You need a full rest every 24 hours.
Military Engineer (background): Your experience in military
engineering has taught you to quickly understand the general
features and weaknesses of fortifications and other infrastructures
of military interest. If necessary, you always know how to cause
the most damage to such structures, or instead to make them less
vulnerable to enemy attacks. In addition, you are an expert
in using what you find on the field to set up improvised barriers
and fortifications.
Space Technician (background): You have worked in large
space yards where spaceships, orbital stations and similar space
structures are built. A simple glance at these artifacts is enough
for you to understand the design scheme, including strengths and
weaknesses of their structure, access routes, post-construction
modifications and other similar details. Furthermore, when
inside similar structures, you are always able to orient yourself,
38 CHAPTER 2: THE CHARACTERS
SPECIES: TERRAN
Enterprising, ambitious and heterogeneous, terrans (i.e. humans) are
a tenacious and adaptable species, animated by a natural instinct for
discovery, exploration and conquest.
Precisely these characteristics pushed humans towards the first
space explorations and subsequently allowed them to quickly gain a
position and a reputation within the interstellar scenario, despite being
the latest arrivals, thus arousing both esteem and contempt reactions
from other species.
Terran society has evolved into a dense and layered network of
political institutions, powerful corporations, scientific knowledge and
openness of thought, constantly attracting many alien species for its
stimulating environment. Perhaps, this is what makes human society
one of the most hospitable and cosmopolitan. Wherever they go, humans
end up being a catalyst for change and an accelerator of revolutionary
ideas. This hasn’t always been good in the past, surrounding terrans with
an aura of unpredictability.
deducing and remembering the layout of decks, corridors,
hatches, passages and specific areas.
Known languages: Terran, Navarian and Espar. Terrans like
to use words from other languages: Iradian musical expressions,
Kergan expletives, Valkarian military terms, and so on.
FEATURES
Mikaya possesses the following features.
Expertise (class feature): Whenever you make an ability
check involving the Mechatronics and Astronautics skills, you can
consider a total roll of 5 or less (on the sum of 2d12) as if it were
6. If you roll a 1 on any of the dice, this feature has no effect.
Assured Outcome (class feature): You can choose to use this
feature when you make an ability check involving one of the skills
you have. If you do so, you roll only one d12 and automatically
consider the result of the other one a 12. You can use this feature
twice, after which you must finish a rest before you can use it again.
Overturn the Odds (class feature): When you roll a 1 on any
dice of an ability check, you can decide to turn it into a 9 instead.
Once you use this feature, you must finish a rest before you can
use it again.
TECHNICIAN (TALENT)
Technicians are the best in technology and are able to build,
modify and sabotage virtually any type of device or gear.
Tools of the Trade: You have an omnitool that you have
customized to suit your needs (see “Equipment”, below). As long
as you have that omnitool on you, you get the following benefits.
• You have advantage on Tech ability checks made to create,
repair, analyze or identify any type of mechanical and
technological artifact.
• Whenever you make repairs, the object you are repairing
regain an additional amount of structure points equal to your
TEC score.
• You can use a minor action to temporarily increase the
efficiency of a kinetic or energy weapon you wield. Make a
DC 17 TEC (Mechatronics) check. If you succeed, you gain a
+1 bonus to the attack roll or damage roll (your choice) on the
next attack you make with that weapon.
Offensive Mods: You further modify your custom omnitool by
equipping it with a couple of offensive features.
• The omnitool incorporates an holoblade projector that you can
activate as a minor action. While activated, you can use the
omnitool exactly like an holoblade (see below) but you cannot
benefit from your Tools of the Trade feature. You can turn off
the holoblade without taking any action.
• As an action, you can release an energy burst at a target you
can see within 10 meters of you. Make a ranged attack roll
with TEC (Mechatronics). You have advantage on the attack
roll if the target is mostly made of metal or is wearing metal
armor. If you hit, the target takes 1d6 + TEC energy damage
and can’t take reactions until the start of your next turn.

EQUIPMENT
Mikaya’s equipment pieces that need explanation are described
below. On the character sheet you will find other equipment listed
not mentioned below. Don’t worry, the GM will be able to give you
all the information you need about them.
ARMAMENTS
Armor: Mikaya wears a tactical recon armor (already
considered in her statistics) equipped with the following
functions: HEV suit, magnetic boots, flashlight, basic sensors,
multiscanner, comlink. The GM can provide you with further
details on how these functions work.
Shotguns: Shotguns offer poor accuracy but tremendous short-
range offensive power. Its base damage decreases with distance
(2d6 at short range, 1d8 at medium range, 1d6 beyond that).
Holoblade (offensive function of the omnitool): When
activated, a holographic plasma blade, generated by focused
laser beams, extends from the omnitool.

GEAR
Duct tape: It’s a 5 cm wide adhesive tape that can support up
to 80 kg indefinitely, or up to 120 for 1d6 rounds. If tied with duct
tape, breaking free requires a DC 20 STR (Might) check. A duct
tape roll provides 20 meters of tape.
Nanofiber cable (10 meters): Flexible and light as a normal
rope but as strong as a steel cable. It can support up to 5000
kg indefinitely. For loads heavier than that, the cable has a 50%
chance of breaking each round. The cable breaks if it takes 15 or
more damage and can be broken with a DC 32 STR (Might) check.
Omnitool: Advanced tech device that can perform a wide range
of tasks. It is usually mounted on an armlet (or hooked to the
forearm of an armor) and it’s equipped with holographic interface
and controls and with a micro-fabrication module capable
of quickly assembling small three-dimensional objects from
common reusable industrial materials. Your omnitool performs
the following functions:
• Intrusion kit: Assortment of tools designed to tamper with
mechanical and electronic devices, locks, traps, alarms
and other security systems, and to carry out intrusions and
computer violations.
• Multiscanner: Sensor device capable of detecting a wide
range of environmental data – such as temperature, pressure,
atmospheric composition, radiation – and to analyze materials,
substances and energy emissions. Interpreting data from a
multiscanner might require INT (Science) checks.
• Technical tools: They include a wide assortment of mechanical
and electronic tools and implements useful for manufacturing,
disassembling, reassembling, modifying and repairing any
type of technological equipment or device.
• Technoprobe: Small diagnostic tool that can be connected to any
electronic or computer device to analyze its internal structure
and detect any malfunctions. Interpreting data from a techno-
probe might require TEC (Computer or Mechatronics) checks.

CHAPTER 2: THE CHARACTERS 39

 NIADA “NIA” VAR AXANNI
When asked about her family, Niada tells how she grew up with
her grandmother, Kyrilian 8B, a large tugboat off the Kordan
Complex. Then she moved on to a wealthy aunt named Ohlma-
barva, a passenger ship connecting the remains of the Lehman
portal and the Barnard Ring’s systems.
This didn’t last long and soon she embarked with a young
human towards the Outer Edge. She then spent most of her
adolescence traveling with the nomadic scouts of the Rift, among
promiscuous biological connections and virtual and non-virtual
heterosynthetic experiences. Eventually something painful drove
her back to the center of the Orion Arm, where she encountered
the Serendipity. So it was that the ship gained an outstanding
pilot and Nia finally found her family.
GENERAL DATA
Species Navarian
Gender Female
Background Crew member
Class Sigma, level 5
Concept Skilled pilot, hacker
Role Pilot, hacker, communications officer
Disposition Community (primary), Impulse (secondary)
Peculiarities She tends to be a bit neurotic, gets easily
excited and gets bored just as easily
Ideals Freedom, friendship, family, trust, loyalty
Bonds Her crew is her family
An important person from her past is lost
somewhere in the galaxy
Flaws Sometimes she tends to ignore the obvious
solutions in favor of the complicated ones
She’s extremely jealous and protective of the
Serendipity
TYPICAL QUOTES
“DO NOT touch my ship!”
“A ship is certainly safe while in harbor, but being such is not what ships
are made for.”
SPECIES: NAVARIAN
Navarak is the arid homeworld of the species most anatomically similar
to terrans. Once green and flourishing, the planet was rendered into
a desert expanse centuries ago by a solar cataclysm.
Cybernetics and technology in general have always been the
cornerstones of navarian culture, but after the cataclysm they took on
even greater importance, eventually becoming a natural extension of the
identity of the inhabitants of Navarak and their legacy to their people.
The relationship they have with their immense computer networks
makes them one with their machines, and this is also true on a biological
level: their skin is decorated with a subcutaneous cybernetic net that
develops in children during pregnancy and that is later used by navarians
to relate to their elaborate technology.
And like technology, also social relationships aren’t simple when
it comes to navarians. Earning the friendship of one of them can be
difficult, but extremely rewarding, since once you are able to move
beyond the “foreign” level, for a navarian you are part of the “family”.
And as a widespread saying in the Outskirts goes: “Never do wrongs
to a navarian’s friend”.
40 CHAPTER 2: THE CHARACTERS
GAME ASPECTS
All the game aspects that you find mentioned on Niada’s character
sheet are described below.
TRAITS
Niada possesses the following traits.
Size: Medium.
Infravision (species): You can see in the dark as if it were dim
light and in dim light as if it were bright light. However, you can’t
discern color in darkness, only shades of gray.
Altruist (species): You can use the Help action as a minor action.
Indomitable Loyalty (species): When one of your ally is in
imminent death danger, you have advantage in any ability check
made to protect or directly help that ally. The effect persists until
the ally dies or stops being in actual death danger.
Innate Cybernetics (species): Navarians are predisposed
to cybernetics from birth (this trait is not relevant to this
quickstarter).
Technological Culture (species): You have advantage on
ability checks involving computer networks and cyberspace.
Rest (species): You need a full rest every 24 hours.
Ships-dweller (background): You have spent most of your
life aboard spaceships or space stations. You are used to their
internal structure and you always know how to orient yourself
within them, deducing and remembering the layout of decks,
corridors, hatches, passages and specific areas such as galley,
armory, engine room and so on. When you are not in combat, you
(and companions you lead) can move inside a spaceship or space
station twice as fast as your speed would normally allow.
Known languages: Navarian, Terran and Espar.
FEATURES
Niada possesses the following features.
Expertise (class feature): Whenever you make an ability check
involving the Computer and Piloting skills, you can treat a total
roll of 5 or less (on the sum of 2d12) as if it were 6. If you roll a 1
on any of the dice, this feature has no effect.
Assured Outcome (class feature): You can choose to use this
feature when you make an ability check involving one of the skills
you have. If you do so, you roll only one d12 and automatically
consider the result of the other one a 12. You can use this feature
twice, after which you must finish a rest before you can use it again.
Overturn the Odds (class feature): When you roll a 1 on any
dice of an ability check, you can decide to turn it into a 9 instead.
Once you use this feature, you must finish a rest before you can
use it again.
ASTRONAUT (TALENT)
You are used to life in space. You get the following benefits:
• You experience no negative effects (both immediate and in the
long-term) because of low-gravity or zero-gravity conditions,
and you become accustomed to them almost instantly.
• You gain a +1 bonus to all ability checks while aboard a
spaceship, space station or similar structures in space.
• You know how to deal with the hazards of space. You have
advantage on ability checks and saving throws related to
depressurization, vacuum exposure, radiation, and any other
space-related environmental hazards.
DRONE COMPANION (TALENT)
You know how to build a special companion drone that assists
you during combat and exploration.
Personal Drone: You own a custom drone built by you.
Its statistics are shown in Appendix B.
Thanks to a neural control system, you can guide the drone
simply by thought, as long as it’s within 20 meters of you. The
drone acts at your initiative count. During your turn, you can use
a minor action to control the drone. If you do so, you can move the
drone up to its flying speed and you can make it take one of the
following actions: Attack, Defend, Disengage and Dash. The drone
cannot take reactions. While not controlled by you or if it’s more
than 20 meters from you, the drone only take the Defend action.
If the drone takes damage, you can repair it during a rest,
restoring 1d6 + TEC of its vitality points.

EQUIPMENT
Niada’s equipment pieces that need explanation are described
below. On the character sheet you will find other equipment listed
not mentioned below. Don’t worry, the GM will be able to give you
all the information you need about them.

ARMAMENTS
Armor: Niada wears a tactical recon armor (already considered
in her statistics) equipped with the following functions: HEV suit,
magnetic boots, flashlight, basic sensors, multiscanner, comlink.
The GM can provide you with further details on how these
functions work.
Blaster SMG: A blaster SMG can fire in burst mode. If you do
so, you make a special attack that creates a cone-shaped area that
spreads up to close range. Each creature in the area must make
a DC 16 DEX (Reflex) saving throw, taking the normal damage
of the attack on a failed save, or half as much damage on a
successful one. The action consumes 6 shots.

GEAR
Intrusion kit: Assortment of tools designed to tamper with
mechanical and electronic devices, locks, traps, alarms and
other security systems, and to carry out intrusion and computer
violations.
Olorecorder: Audio-video recording device in holographic
format, about the size of an apple. When activated, it hovers about
2 meters above the ground and can be programmed to remain
stationary or to follow a certain subject. The internal memory
can hold up to 10 hours of audio-holographic footage. It can be
easily connected to a datachip to increase its memory capacity.
Powering: ENC (30 hours).
Technical tools: They include a wide assortment of mechanical
and electronic tools and implements useful for manufacturing,
disassembling, reassembling, modifying and repairing any type
of technological equipment or device.
Technoprobe: Small diagnostic tool that can be connected to
any electronic or computer device to analyze its internal structure
and detect any malfunctions. Interpreting data from a techno-
probe might require TEC (Computer or Mechatronics) checks.

CHAPTER 2: THE CHARACTERS 41

 TIX GABIL KES DAHAL
An old Bakuna saying goes: “A ja’raki can lose everything, but not
their face”. According to Tix, another pearl of wisdom of his people
would be: “Don’t gamble less than you would be willing to steal”.
They found him with life support systems running low, while
he orbited tied to a waste silo around Yulo-9, a T-class brown
dwarf. Just there, a few hours earlier, the small trading post he
had run for years had been orbiting. When they took him aboard
the Serendipity, a metal plate with an engraving in Kergan hung
around the ja’raki’s neck. Nobody bothered to translate it.
The little amphibian has long since paid his debt, but has
discovered a new motto: “Life is less risky if the ship you bet on
isn’t yours!”
GENERAL DATA
Species Ja’raki
Gender Male
Background Merchant (smuggler)
Class Sigma, level 5
Concept Demolition man, sapper, bomber, trickster
Role Gunner, explosives specialist, intermediary
Disposition Individuality (primary), Chaos (secondary)
Peculiarities He always has a ready joke, good or bad – more
often bad
He loves to laugh and have fun, even alone
Ideals Luck, gamble, freedom, profit, opportunity
Bonds He has seven brothers and fifteen sisters, better
not ask him the number of cousins and nephews
Flaws He loves gambling, blowing up things, and
cybernetic implants, especially those of others
TYPICAL QUOTES
“Hey, I’m not here for the money you know... I just like profitable things,
like... explosives!”
“Come on people, time to be bad guys!”
GAME ASPECTS
All the game aspects that you find mentioned on Tix’s character
sheet are described below.
TRAITS
Tix possesses the following traits.
Size: Small.
Infravision (species): You can see in the dark as if it were dim
light and in dim light as if it were bright light. However, you can’t
discern color in darkness, only shades of gray.
Amphibian (species): You can breathe both air and water.
However, you have disadvantage on ability checks made to resist
the effects of thirst and you need double the normal amount of
water per day.
Uncanny Readiness (species): You have advantage on your
initiative rolls, unless you’re surprised.
Genetic Doctrine (species): You have advantage on ability
checks involving biotechnology and genetic engineering.
Rest (species): You need a full rest every 32 hours. At the end of
each rest (whether full or not), you regain 1d4 extra vitality points.
Trader Instinct (background): Whenever you see some
interesting object, you are always able to make a rough estimate
42 CHAPTER 2: THE CHARACTERS
SPECIES: JA’RAKI
This small amphibious species is among the most cute as well as the
most cunning and roguish in known space.
They evolved in the damp tropical marshes of Bakuna, where they
learned to adapt and always be ready thanks to an extremely dynamic
metabolism. They think, act and live at a pace difficult to follow for other
sentient species who are not used to their 32-hour day (and their slyly
flexible morals).
It is not sure if their interest in bio-engineering was a natural
consequence of their hyperactive and curious mind, but what is certain is
that this interest has found fertile ground among the ja’raki people, more
than in any other species.
Several ja’raki legends roam the Outskirts, talking about Miirii,
the capital of their native planet, and painting it as a bio-engineering
masterpiece. From its skyline pierced by gigantic fungal skyscrapers,
to the streets traversed by weird creatures designed to satisfy any
service or misdeed, like swarms of fireflies illuminating the streets
and the elegant “carapa-ships” floating in the air – not to mention the
most dangerous and illegal bio-weapons of the Known Space (obviously
available at a modest price at the notorious Bakuna black market).
of its value as well as remember some interesting information
about it (as long as there is something to know). If you are unable
to estimate the price of an item, you always know who to contact
to get a reliable evaluation, unless the GM considers the item too
rare or mysterious. Similarly, you always know who to turn to
when selling or buying any kind of goods, including the rarest,
strangest and most expensive items.
Known languages: Ja’raki, Terran and Espar.
FEATURES
Tix possesses the following features.
Expertise (class feature): Whenever you make an ability
check involving the Explosives and Tampering skills, you can
treat a total roll of 5 or less (on the sum of 2d12) as if it were 6.
If you roll a 1 on any of the dice, this feature has no effect.
Assured Outcome (class feature): You can choose to use this
feature when you make an ability check involving one of the skills
you have. If you do so, you roll only one d12 and automatically
consider the result of the other one a 12. You can use this feature
twice, after which you must finish a rest before you can use it again.
Overturn the Odds (class feature): When you roll a 1 on any
dice of an ability check, you can decide to turn it into a 9 instead.
Once you use this feature, you must finish a rest before you can
use it again.
DEMOLITION EXPERT (TALENT)
Demolition experts specialize in the use of heavy weapons,
artillery and explosives. You get the following benefits:
• When using weapons with the bulky property, you no longer
have disadvantage on Dexterity based checks nor to attack
rolls with them if your size is Small.
• When you take the Attack action using a gunnery weapon,
you can make the number of attacks you can normally make,
rather than being limited to just one.
• When you throw a hand-held explosive weapon, you can throw
it within close range without making any ability check and the
weapon will explode exactly at the point you indicate. Instead,
if you throw it at short range, you no longer have disadvantage
on the check made for that purpose (see Combat).
• When using placeable explosives and mines, they deal 2 extra
damage dice when they explode.
SCOUNDREL (TALENT)
Scoundrel are adventurers by definition, fortune seekers and
daredevil knaves who pursue their luck, always living on the edge.
 Lucky: You have inexplicable luck that seems to kick in at just
the right moment. You have 3 luck points.
Whenever you make an ability check, you can spend one luck
point to gain advantage on the roll. You can choose to do so before
or after you roll the dice, but before the outcome is determined.
You can also spend one luck point to impose disadvantage on
an attack roll made against you or on an ability check made by
a creature you are fighting against.
You regain your expended luck points when you finish a full rest.

EQUIPMENT
Tix’s equipment pieces that need explanation are described below.
On the character sheet you will find other equipment listed not
mentioned below. Don’t worry, the GM will be able to give you all
the information you need about them.

ARMAMENTS
Armor: Tix wears a tactical recon armor (already considered
in his statistics) equipped with the following functions: HEV suit,
magnetic boots, flashlight, basic sensors, multiscanner, comlink.
The GM can provide you with further details on how these
functions work.
Tactical knife: Military knife. The serrated back of the blade
can act as a hacksaw, while the handle is hollow and houses small
utility items, such as needle, thread and scalpel.
Blaster rifle: A blaster rifle can fire in burst mode. If you do
so, you make a special attack that creates a cone-shaped area that
spreads up to close range. Each creature in the area must make
a DC 16 DEX (Reflex) saving throw, taking the normal damage
of the attack on a failed save, or half as much damage on a
successful one. The action consumes 6 shots.
Frag grenade (x1): When exploding, it throws metal fragments
in all directions. Each creature within 6 meters of an exploding
frag grenade must take a DC 16 DEX (Reflex) saving throw, taking
5d6 kinetic damage on a failed save, or half as much damage on
a successful one. Anyone who fails the roll is also knocked prone.
Pulse grenade (x1): When exploding, it generates a strong
electromagnetic pulse. Any creature with the EM Sensitivity trait
within 4 meters of an exploding pulse grenade must make a DC
16 STR (Stamina) saving throw, taking 5d6 energy damage on a
failed save, or half as much damage on a successful one. Anyone
who fails the roll is also stunned until the end of their next turn.
REX explosive (x1): Powerful semi-solid explosive mixture
with a consistency similar to wax. It explodes exclusively via
detonator. When a block of REX explodes, all creatures within 6
meters of it must make a DC 16 DEX (Reflex) saving throw, taking
4d6 energy damage on a failed save, or half as much damage on
a successful one. Anyone who fails the roll is also knocked prone.
It is also possible to connect multiple REX blocks together with
a DC 15 INT (Explosives) check. Each added block increases the
damage by 3d6 and the explosion radius by 2 meters.

GEAR
Crowbar: Using a crowbar gives advantage to any STR checks
whenever its lever can be applied.
Scientific tools: They include vials, slides, swabs, reagents,
reaction catalysts and all the tools needed to carry out scientific
investigations and experiments, including the collection, analysis
and creation of substances and materials.
Tactical belt: Very useful belt with pockets, pouches and
hooks. It allows you to keep many of the items useful in
exploration and combat close at hand.
Technical tools: They include a wide assortment of mechanical
and electronic tools and implements useful for manufacturing,
disassembling, reassembling, modifying and repairing any type
of technological equipment or device.

CHAPTER 2: THE CHARACTERS 43

 RASYA V’NADI
Rasya V’Nadi is wanted in at least 12 systems. After years of
espionage activities for the merchant guild of the Arkeade Cross,
she is now the Serendipity’s connection with the commercial
and political context of the Outskirts.
When asked why she has deserted an extremely lucrative
job to follow a handful of outcasts wandering the Outskirts she
replies: “Better to be the lips of a dwarf than the ass of a giant.”
But those who know her understand that masks are the only
way she knows to be herself and protect those she loves.
GENERAL DATA
Species Draalani
Gender Alternating hermaphrodite (currently female)
Background Spy
Class Psi, level 5
Concept Mentalist, empath, telepath, ex-spy
Role Advisor, counselor, diplomat
Disposition Impulse (primary), Individuality (secondary)
Peculiarities She’s good at putting people she talks with at ease
She always has a smile for anyone
Ideals Empathy, freedom, independence, sensuality
Bonds She owes her life to a person who made her
open her eyes on what she was becoming
Flaws When something strikes a chord in her, she
ends up forgetting all caution
TYPICAL QUOTES
“Lying is a really bad way to start a conversation, honey.”
“In critical moments, people often see exactly what they want to see.”
GAME ASPECTS
All the game aspects that you find mentioned on Rasya’s character
sheet are described below.
TRAITS
Rasya possesses the following traits.
Size: Medium.
Draalani Metamorphosis (species): Given your hermaphroditic
nature, you can change your sex. If you wish, in doing so you can
also partially change your appearance and physiology to make
yourself compatible with other humanoid species - you can induce
cosmetic changes (build, facial features, skin, hair, voice tone) but
you cannot make substantial bodily or biological changes (such
as growing limbs you don’t already possess or becoming able to
breathe water). When you adapt to another species, you vaguely
imitate its appearance (despite maintaining traits that clearly
reveal your nature) and become able to reproduce with it, but
the offspring born from such unions will always be draalani.
The metamorphosis process requires 24 hours if you only
change your sex, or 48 hours if you adapt to another species
(with or without also changing sex). During this period you fall
into a deep comatose state – you’re unconscious and you can’t
regain consciousness – from which you only emerge at the end of
the process. If you wish to return to your natural state, you simply
lose the traits of the “imitated” race, as well as any sexual traits,
within 24 hours.
44 CHAPTER 2: THE CHARACTERS
SPECIES: DRAALANI
Draalani are a singular humanoid species that evolved on Draal, a
lush and fickle moon orbiting the gas giant Mahar. The unstable and
unpredictable ecosystem of their world has brought draalani close
to extinction on multiple occasions, which is why evolution has
gifted them with highly efficient immune systems and extraordinary
reproductive capabilities, including sequential hermaphroditism and
even parthenogenesis. These same features also make them the only
species capable of reproducing with other humanoid species, generating
exclusively draalani offspring.
Draalani people don’t have the ambition or sense of duty that other
species have. They enjoy the simple pleasures of life, arts (especially
dance) and social relationships. They are curious, sharp and emphatic,
and are always fascinated by new and different things.
Thanks to their hedonistic and sensitive attitude, daalani people
has earned fame as extraordinary artists, while the troubled history
of their species places them among the luminaries in the medical field.
Nonetheless, due to their mutability and exuberant physicality, many
consider the draalani as incurable seducers and unscrupulous libertines.
Draalani Immune System (species): You have advantage on
saving throws made to resist poisons and diseases. Also, if you
manage to defeat a poison or disease that afflicts you, you become
immune to it for the next 24 hours.
Natural Knowledge (species): You have advantage on ability
checks concerning botany, phyto-pharmacology, plant and herbs.
Rest (species): You need a full rest every 24 hours.
False Identity (background): You have created a second
identity that includes documentation, established acquaintances
and disguises that allow you to assume that persona. Additionally,
you can forge documents including official and personal ones, as
long as you have seen an example of the kind of document or the
handwriting you are trying to copy.
Known languages: Draalani, Kergan, Terran and Espar.
FEATURES
Rasya possesses the following features.
Psionic Powers (class feature): As a 5th-level Psi, Rasya
knows four praxis and one psychic power of the Telepathy
discipline (see “Psychic Powers,” below).
Eidetic Mind (class feature): Your mind is able to perceive and
store a lot of passive information. You get the following benefits:
• You vaguely sense magnetic fields and this allows you to
always know which way is north, assuming you are on a
planet with a geomagnetic field.
• You can instinctively keep track of the passage of time, even
if you are devoid of any reference.
• You can accurately recall anything you have seen or heard
within the last few months.
EMPATH (TALENT)
Empaths are psionicists who deeply develop their ability to
perceive the thoughts and emotions of others.
Telepathic Empathy: Your telepathic communication skills are
out of the ordinary. You get the following benefits:
• You can telepathically communicate with any creature
within 10 meters of you and you can telepathically sense its
responses. Telepathic communication is independent from
language, but a creature must know at least one language
in order to understand your telepathic messages.
• When manifesting the praxis telepathic message, you can
send the message to any number of willing creatures within
range (instead of just one).
Perceive Emotions: As an action, you choose a creature you
can see within 10 meters of you. The target must make an INT
(Lucidity) saving throw with a DC equal to your Psionic Force. On
a failed save, you can clearly perceive the true emotion felt by the
target at that moment (such as fear, distrust, joy, hate, etc.), also
understanding the context of that emotion (for example for whom,
for what or for what reason they feel these emotions) . Once you
use this feature, you must finish a rest before you can use it again.

PSIONIC POWERS
Rasya knows the following psionic powers. For general rules on
their usage, see “Psionic Powers” in Chapter 1.

MENTAL ASSAULT (PRAXIS)

Manifestation Time: 1 action
Range: Close
Duration: Instantaneous
Choose a creature you can see within range. The target must make
an INT (Lucidity) saving throw. On a failed save, the target takes
1d8 psychic damage and is sickened until the start of your next turn.

PSIONIC EXPEDIENT (PRAXIS)

Manifestation Time: 1 action
Range: Close
Duration: Varies, see text
You manifest a minor psionic trick, a sign of psychic power, or
an exercise that psionicists use to practice. You create one of the
following effects within range:
• You get a brief vision that predicts what the weather will
be like at your location for the next 24 hours.
• Create an instantaneous, harmless sensory effect, such as
a flicker of sparks, a gust of wind, a noise, an animal sound,
an eerie whisper, or a pleasant or unpleasant smell.
• You instantly light or snuff a candle, torch or small bonfire.
• You cause flames to flicker, brighten, dim or change color
for 1 minute.
• You cause harmless tremors in the ground for 1 minute.
• You chill, warm or flavor up to 30 cubic decimeters (30 liters)
of non-living material for 1 hour.
• You instantaneously clean or soil an object no larger that
30 cubic decimeters (30 liters).
• You instantly cause a flower, a little plant, a leaf bud or seed
to bloom or wilt.
• You instantaneously cause an unlocked door or window
to fly open or slam shut.
• You alter the appearance of you eyes for 1 minute.
• Your voice booms three times louder than normal for 1 minute.
• You make a color, small mark or symbol appear on an object
or a surface for 1 hour.
• You create an illusory image that can fit in your hand and that
lasts until the end of your next turn.
If you perform this praxis multiple times, you can keep up
to three non-instantaneous effects active at a time, and you can
dismiss such an effect as an action.

TELEPATHIC MESSAGE (PRAXIS)

Manifestation Time: 1 minor action
Range: Short
Duration: Instantaneous
You send a telepathic message to a willing creature within range.
You don’t need to share a language with the target for them to
understand the meaning of your message and you the meaning
of their response, but the target must know at least one language,
otherwise this power has no effect. The target (and only the target)
hears the message in their mind and can reply with a response
that only you will perceive in your mind.

CHAPTER 2: THE CHARACTERS 45

 BLIND SPOT (PRAXIS)
Manifestation Time: 1 action
Range: Short
Duration: Instantaneous
You erase your image from the mind of a creature that you can
see within range. The creature must succeed on an INT (Lucidity)
saving throw or be unable to see you until the end of your next
turn. As long as it cannot see you this way, you are considered
invisible to it.
INSTILL EMOTION (TELEPATHY)
Manifestation Time: 1 action
Range: Close
Duration: Concentration, see text
Choose a creature you can see within range. The target must make
a WIL (Fortitude) saving throw. A target automatically succeed
on the save if it cannot be charmed. On a failed save, the target
suffers one of the following effects of your choice. If desired, a
creature can voluntarily fail its saving throw against this power.
Fascinate (1+ psi): The target is charmed by you for the
duration (maximum 1 hour) or until you or your allies do
something harmful to it. The charmed creature considers you
a friendly acquaintance. When the power ends, the creature
is aware that it has been charmed by you.
Heroism (1+ psi): The target is infused with courage. For the
duration (maximum 1 minute), he is immune to being frightened
and has advantage on attack rolls.
Grudge (1+ psi): The target feels a strong grudge against you
that prompts him to confront you. For the duration (maximum
1 minute), the creature has disadvantage on attack rolls against
creatures other than you and must make a WIL (Fortitude) saving
throw whenever it attempts to move more than 10 meters away
from you. If the roll is successful, the power does not restrict the
target’s movement for that turn. The power ends if you attack any
creature other than the target, if any of you allies damages the
target in any way, or if you end your turn more than 10 meters
away from the target.
Depression (2+ psi): The target falls into depression and
anxiety. For the duration (maximum 10 minutes), during each
of its turns the target wastes his action without doing anything.
However, at the end of each of its turns, and each time it takes
damage, the target re-rolls the saving throw against this power.
On a successful save, the power ends for that creature.
Calm (2+ psi): For the duration (maximum 10 minutes), you
suppress any effects that make the target charmed or frightened,
as well as any emotional states that may upset it. When the power
46 CHAPTER 2: THE CHARACTERS
ends, the suppressed effects resume, as long as their duration
has not already expired.
Fear (3+ psi): The target is frightened by you for the duration
(maximum 1 minute). While frightened in this way, a creature
must take the Dash action and move away from you following the
safest available route on each of its turn, unless there’s nowhere
to move. If the creature ends its turn in a location where it has
no line of sight to you, it can re-roll the saving throw against this
power. On a successful save, the power ends for that creature.
Increment: For each psi point spent in addition to the base
cost, you can affect one additional creature.
EQUIPMENT
Rasya’s equipment pieces that need explanation are described
below. On the character sheet you will find other equipment listed
not mentioned below. Don’t worry, the GM will be able to give you
all the information you need about them.
ARMAMENTS
Armor: Rasya wears a reinforced protective vest (already
considered in her statistics) equipped with the following
functions: HEV suit, magnetic boots, flashlight, basic sensors,
multiscanner, comlink. The GM can provide you with further
details on how these functions work.
Taser: Small weapon designed to incapacitate targets thanks
to an electrical impulse. A hit target must make a DC 16 STR
(Stamina) save or be stunned until the end of its next turn.
GEAR
Bioscanner: Biometric analysis device. It is sufficient to pass it
over a subject to detect health conditions and vital signs, analyze
organic matter and look for signs of life. Interpreting data from a
bioscanner might require INT (Medicine or Science) checks.
First aid kit: This kit contains everything you need to
administer first aid care. The kit has 10 uses. As an action, you
can expend one use of the kit to stabilize a creature that has 0
vitality points without needing to make a INT (Medicine) check.
Frequency jammer: Effective device capable of blocking
telecommunication signals. When activated, the jammer generates
an interference field in a 50 meters radius, within which
it becomes impossible to make any communication device that
uses electromagnetic waves work. Powering: ENC (20 hours).
Scientific tools: They include vials, slides, swabs, reagents,
reaction catalysts and all the tools needed to carry out scientific
investigations and experiments, including the collection, analysis
and creation of substances and materials.
TOLAN
“We all have parts of our past that we would like to forget.
And none of you have celebrated your 100th birthday yet”.
Like many iradians, Tolan has the gaze of one who has left a
part of themselves in a distant place, far both in time and space.
In fact, what the tattoos he tries to hide under his sleeves don’t
say, are the scars on his back to tell instead.
Tolan himself doesn’t talk much. Maybe that’s why the captain
wanted him on board and the kergan hasn’t killed him yet.
Or maybe because the whole crew knows the skill and zeal with
which they take care of the health of all of them, matched only by
his insatiable curiosity. At times it almost seems that he has spent
most of his life in seclusion, far from the wonders of space, and
now the time has come for him to even the score.
GENERAL DATA
Species Iradian
Gender Lateral (non-binary, male type B)
Background Academic (doctor)
Class Psi, level 5
Concept Scientist, bio-psionicist, scholar
Role Medical and scientific officer
Disposition Reason (primary), Community (secondary)
Peculiarities He always seems lost in his thoughts
He’s rather clumsy in social relations
He loves music and hums often
Ideals Knowledge, research, logic, life, improvement
Bonds He chose to watch over the family of an old
friend and colleague who died
Like his ancestors, he considers it a duty to seek
knowledge and truth wherever he goes
Flaws Having lost many friends, he tries to not create
real bonds with members of less long-lived
species, but he doesn’t always succeed
TYPICAL QUOTES
“Knowledge is useless if it is not used.”
“Everything has a beginning and an end. There are epilogues that we don’t
want but cannot avoid. We simply have to face them. That’s what it means
to live. “
SPECIES: IRADIAN
Among the known species, iradians were the first to navigate the stars.
Some say that it’s because of the deep connection they have with the
sea. Dashàr, their homeworld, is almost fully covered in shallow oceans,
and although they are no longer semi-aquatic creatures, their pelagic
origins have left a clear legacy.
Being able to live beyond 500 years, the iradians have developed a
mild nature which allows them to build friendly relationships with almost
any other known species. Violence is rarely considered an effective way
to solve conflicts in Iradian society, while machinations and plotting are
commonly on the agenda.
Their non-violent attitude allows the iradians to satisfy their
inexhaustible curiosity towards cultures and lifestyles different from
their own. Their placid individualism often leads them to wander among
the stars with the simple purpose of gathering knowledge and living
experiences. However, their longevity leads them to consider time from
a different perspective, which makes the other species suspicious, even
when they demonstrate that their actions are aimed at good, at least
in the long term.
GAME ASPECTS
All the game aspects that you find mentioned on Tolan’s character
sheet are described below.
TRAITS
Tolan possesses the following traits.
Size: Medium.
Hold Breath (species): Iradians are not amphibians but are
related to aquatic life. You can hold your breath up to a number
of minutes equal to 10 + STR.
Psionic Doctrine (species): You know an additional praxis
(see “Psychic Powers”, below).
Clear Mind (species): You have advantage on ability checks
made against being charmed.
Iradian Lore (species): You have advantage on ability checks
involving exo-archeology and ancient interstellar civilizations.
Rest (species): You need a full rest every 28 hours. Iradians
do not sleep, they rest in a meditative state, and are therefore
immune to effects that would cause them to fall asleep.
Also, if you have a psi points pool, you regain one spent
psi point every time you finish a short rest.
Medical Profession (background): As a doctor, you have
sworn to cure anyone who needs it, without prejudice, even if they
are enemies. In almost every culture, healers are highly respected,
which makes it easier for them to gain the trust of anyone who
needs their assistance. Even if hostile, these creatures will
be less likely to harm you and will allow you to approach them
if they need cure. Obviously, any hostile act towards the creature
by you or your allies will negate this effect.
Moreover, thanks to your experience, a brief examination
is enough for you to understand if a drug or similar substance
has beneficial or harmful properties. This does not reveal the
specific nature or effects of the substance, but it does allow
you to understand whether its use will heal or harm creatures.
Known languages: Iradian, Valkarian, Ja’raki and Espar.
FEATURES
Tolan possesses the following features.
Psionic Powers (class feature): As a 5th-level Psi, Rasya
knows four praxis and one psychic power of the Metabiosis
discipline (see “Psychic Powers,” below).
Eidetic Mind (class feature): Your mind is able to perceive and
store a lot of passive information. You get the following benefits:
• You vaguely sense magnetic fields and this allows you to
always know which way is north, assuming you are on a
planet with a geomagnetic field.
• You can instinctively keep track of the passage of time, even
if you are devoid of any reference.
• You can accurately recall anything you have seen or heard
within the last few months.
TECHNOMEDIC (TALENT)
Technomedics combine their medical skills with sophisticated
scientific and technological knowledge.
Advanced Medicine: You learned about the most advanced
medical techniques and therapies. You get the following benefits:
• When you use a first aid kit to stabilize a creature at 0 vitality
point, that creature automatically regains 1 vitality point.
• As an action, you can consume one use of a first aid kit to
assist a creature and make it regain 1d4 + INT vitality points.
The creature cannot recover any more VP from this feature
before it has finished a rest.
• This feature includes other benefits that don’t come into play
during this quickstarter.
CHAPTER 2: THE CHARACTERS 47
 Technomedicine: You know how to treat wounds, diseases and
poisons using a variety of healing techniques and technologies.
You have a pool of healing dice equal to 5d6. You regain any
expended healing dice after a full rest. In order to use your
healing dice you must be able to use medical tools.
As an action, you can spend a healing die to assist a creature
you can touch and have it immediately regain 1d6 vitality points.
Alternatively, during a rest you can spend two healing dice
to assist a creature you can touch in order to cure a disease,
neutralize a poison, or remove a condition affecting it, including
bleeding, dazzled, frightened, sickened, stunned and unconscious.
Poisons and conditions are removed instantly (as long as they can
be removed), but diseases require the creature to finish a full rest
before being removed.

PSIONIC POWERS
Tolan knows the following psionic powers. For general rules on
their usage, see “Psionic Powers” in Chapter 1.

FLUCTUATION (PRAXIS)
Manifestation Time: 1 reaction you make when you are hit by
an attack that you are aware of
Range: Personal
Duration: Instantaneous
You alter the tangibility of your body to avoid the full impact of
an attack that hits you. This fluctuation is so fast that it is difficult
to perceive with the naked eye, giving the impression that the hit
passes through you. You gain resistance to the damage dealt by
that attack, regardless of the type of damage it deals.

HYPERTHERMIA / HYPOTHERMIA (PRAXIS)

Manifestation Time: 1 action
Range: Close
Duration: Instantaneous
Choose a creature you can see within range. You use your psychic
influence to dramatically change its body temperature. The target
must make a STR (Stamina) saving throw. On a failed save, the
target suffers one of the following effects of your choice:
• Hyperthermia: The creature takes 1d8 biotic damage and
is sickened until the start of your next turn.
• Hypothermia: The creature takes 1d8 biotic damage and its
speed is reduced by 3 meters until the start of your next turn.
 
HINDER (PRAXIS)
Manifestation Time: 1 action
Range: Short
Duration: Instantaneous
Choose a creature you can see within range. You use your psychic
influence to hamper its movements. The target must make a STR
(Might) saving throw. On a failed save, the target is hindered until
the start of your next turn.

METABOLIC SPASM (PRAXIS)

Manifestation Time: 1 action
Range: Close
Duration: Instantaneous
Choose a creature you can see within range. The target must make
a STR (Stamina) saving throw. On a failed save, the target takes
1d8 biotic damage and can’t regain vitality points until the start
of your next turn. This praxis has no effect on non-living creatures
(such as robots and other constructs).

48 CHAPTER 2: THE CHARACTERS

SPARE THE DYING (PRAXIS)
Manifestation Time: 1 action
Range: Touch
Duration: Instantaneous
You touch a creature that has 0 vitality points. The creature
becomes stable. If the creature is bleeding, that condition
is canceled. This praxis has no effect on non-living creatures
(such as robots and other constructs).
BIOPSIONIC RESTORATION (METABIOSIS)
Manifestation Time: 1 action
Range: Contact
Duration: Instantaneous
You use your psionic influence to cleanse, cure, and restore
health. This praxis has no effect on non-living creatures (such
as robots and other constructs). When you manifest this power,
choose one of the following options.
Diagnosis (1+ psi): You touch a creature (including yourself)
and immediately learn one information of your choice from the
following for each psi point spent:
• The creature’s current and maximum vitality points, and the
types of damage it has recently taken.
• The traumas afflicting the creature (if any).
• The conditions affecting the creature (if any).
• The diseases afflicting the creature (if any).
• The poisons afflicting the creature (if any).
Alternatively, this effect can be used on the corpse of a creature
that has been dead for no more than 24 hours to determine the
cause of its death.
Restore Vitality (1+ psi): You touch a creature (including
yourself), and it immediately regains an amount of vitality points
equal to 1d6 for each psi point spent.
Restore Conditions (3 psi): You touch a creature (including
yourself), and immediately remove one of the following conditions
from it: blinded, dazzled, deafened, paralyzed, sickened, or stunned.
Alternatively, you can cure a disease or poison afflicting the target.
Restore Debilitation (4 psi): You touch a creature (including
yourself), and immediately remove one level of exhaustion from it.
Alternatively, you can remove an effect that reduces the target’s
maximum vitality points or one of the target’s ability scores,
unless they are permanent effects.
EQUIPMENT
Tolan’s equipment pieces that need explanation are described
below. On the character sheet you will find other equipment listed
not mentioned below. Don’t worry, the GM will be able to give you
all the information you need about them.
ARMAMENTS
Armor: Tolan wears a reinforced protective vest (already
considered in his statistics) equipped with the following functions:
HEV suit, magnetic boots, flashlight, basic sensors, multiscanner,
comlink. The GM can provide you with further details on how
these functions work.
GEAR
Bioscanner: Biometric analysis device. It is sufficient to pass
it over a subject to detect health conditions and vital signs, analyze
organic matter and look for signs of life. Interpreting data from
a bioscanner might require INT (Medicine or Science) checks.
First aid kit: This kit contains everything you need to
administer first aid care. The kit has 10 uses. As an action, you
can expend one use of the kit to stabilize a creature that has 0
vitality points without needing to make a INT (Medicine) check.
Medical tools: They include hypojet dispensers, bandaging
and dressing materials, generic drugs, surgical instruments and
anything else useful for the medical profession.
Scientific tools: They include vials, slides, swabs, reagents,
reaction catalysts and all the tools needed to carry out scientific
investigations and experiments, including the collection, analysis
and creation of substances and materials.
Sterilizer: Device capable of generating a beam of ultraviolet
radiation sufficient to sterilize a surface on which it is passed.
As an action, you can sterilize up to one square meter of surface.
Powering: ENC (20 rounds).
CHAPTER 2: THE CHARACTERS 49
 CHAPTER 3: A VOICE IN THE VOID
“A Voice in the Void” is a short adventure to introduce you to
FARSIGHT RPG and in this chapter you will find all the necessary
to run it.
Obviously, we advise the Game Master to carefully read both
the rules presented in Chapter 1 and this chapter before running
the adventure written here. On the contrary, players should not
read this chapter at all, unless they want to completely ruin for
themselves the game experience.
PREAMBLE
This section introduces the setting and the narrative contest of
the adventure, and it provides various guidelines and information
useful to the GM to handle characters and scenes while running
the adventure itself.
In particular, the information contained in the “Historical
context” section are considered public knowledge, so players’
characters are supposed to be aware of them. For this reason,
we suggest to narrate what is written to your players thoroughly
and clearly or, if you prefer, to read them the whole paragraph.
On the contrary, the “Perseus III” section tells the events
leading up to the adventure and therefore linked to its plot.
Therefore, the information contained in it should not be revealed
to the players. They will have the chance to discover them
(completely or partially) during the course of the adventure.
HISTORICAL CONTEXT
697 EU (approximately 3100 in the old Earth dating). In times
long gone, humans ventured among the stars and discovered
they were not alone. Several interstellar civilizations had already
spread in the central areas of the Orion Arm, and the presence
of the newcomers initially awoke not small amount of suspicion.
However, the Terrans (as they were named) quickly managed
to integrate, becoming part of a process of dialogue that was
slowly bringing the various known species closer and would lead,
in the following decades, to the founding of the Systems Union.
Almost seven hundred years have passed since those epochal
events that marked the beginning of a new era of prosperity and
exploration, remembered as the Golden Age. The various species,
now united under the aegis of peace and cooperation, prospered
by merging their cultures and colonizing previously unexplored
regions of their corner of the galaxy.
But nothing is built to last forever and, although the Union
survived for more than 300 years despite wars and periods of
crisis, nothing could have endured what happened. A devastating
pandemic of unknown origin spread with disarming speed
in all the territories of the Union, decimating the population
and destabilizing the complex apparatus of institutions and
infrastructures that governed the vast interstellar civilization.
The Scarlet Plague, as it was called, left behind a Union
completely collapsed and astray.
Disturbing rumors began to spread. Was the Plague the result
of nefarious experiments? Was it the prelude to an invasion or the
result of a terrorist plan? At that point, it didn’t matter. Within a
few years, vast peripheral territories were completely abandoned
to themselves, while what was left of the Union retreated to the
now remote Central Systems, where a glimmer of order still barely
resisted in the native planets of the founding species.
The darkness thus engulfed once prosperous regions, throwing
them into a long period of isolation, oblivion and barbarism.
However, over the nearly four centuries that separate us from
those terrible events, which went down in history as The Collapse,
from the ruins of the previous era emerged new sparks of
civilization. Sparks that slowly became beacons of hope, bastions
50 CHAPTER 3: A VOICE IN THE VOID
of a new order in the otherwise wild and boundless sidereal
expanses known today as the Outskirts.
Currently, the Outskirts regions along the Inner Edge of the
Orion Arm are dominated by the mighty Nargor Kratarchy,
a border empire ruled by a powerful military and forged
by centuries of resistance against the threats from beyond
the Inner Edge – first of all the ferocious Zatarian Hegemony.
From the more distant areas of the Orion Arm instead come
rumors about the mysterious Concordate, an enigmatic nation
of which very little is known except that its emissaries, called
Concordants, travel through the Outskirts volunteering
as diplomats, negotiators and peace missionaries.
Finally, the Central Outskirts and the border marches of the
Outer Edge have been the scene of the rise of two main actors:
the Arkeade Cross, a thriving mercantile league that bases its
influence on the massive network of trade, communications and
services it has built over the centuries, and the Confederation
of the 79 Suns, perhaps the most important interstellar nation
the Outskirts have seen since the collapse of the Union.
PERSEUS III
During the Golden Age, the Union, at the pinnacle of its power
and its expansion, reached heights of splendor and crossed
frontiers that are unimaginable today. Among the greatest
ambitions that arose from this period was the intrepid PERSEUS
Project. When its territories came to touch the chasms that
separate the Orion Arm from the other spiral arms, the Union
yearned to explore the unknown, to go beyond the farthest
reaches of its corner of the galaxy.
To this end, the largest yards in the Union invested all their
resources into building nine ships of titanic proportions. Nine
technological prodigies that, together with their courageous crews,
catalyzed the aspirations of an entire civilization. Their mission:
to explore the distant Perseus Arm. However, even with the best
technologies available to the Union, the journey would have
lasted, at best, more than a century.
Unfortunately, the ultimate fate of these extraordinary ships fell
into oblivion following the Collapse. Our story follows the events
of one of these ships: the Perseus III.
THE PERSEUS III MISSION
After a silent and solitary long journey, the huge spaceship finally
crossed the threshold of the Perseus Arm, finally exiting the warp
thousands of light years from home. Immersed in a completely
unexplored territory, the ship began to scan its surroundings,
while the crew awoke from their long cryogenic sleep.
During the years the Perseus III spent exploring the
neighboring sectors of the Perseus Arm, the crew cataloged
many new forms of life, studying exotic biomes of all sorts and
gathering an invaluable collection of flora, fauna and mineral
samples from hundreds of different planets. The most memorable
and exceptional encounters, however, were with the interstellar
civilizations of that part of the galaxy; they welcomed
the newcomers amicably, establishing cultural exchanges
and guiding them in their exploration.
At the end of the mission’s scheduled period, the Perseus III
finally headed home and the crew returned in cryostasis to make
the long return journey.
THE INCIDENT
During the journey, however, a malfunction caused the
deactivation of the containment cells of the samples stored in the
ship’s laboratories, triggering the safety protocols for biological
contamination. The senior officers were thus awakened by
Urania, the onboard Artificial Intelligence. Soon, they realized
that the contamination was not a danger (other than the loss of
the samples) but that the damage to their containment was more
serious than expected, so much so that it could not be repaired
without exiting the warp. So the captain decided to resolve
the situation by isolating the laboratories and deactivating
the quarantine protocols that would otherwise have prevented
them from resuming cryostasis, postponing the matter to the
end of the journey.
However, among the leaked samples there was a seemingly
irrelevant basic life form, a sort of lichen. What the crew
could not suspect was that this sample contained a symbiotic
microorganism capable of adapting to any host creature,
dramatically increasing its adaptive capacities and binding
the various hosts into a sort of “plural entity”.
Thus, supported by the micro-symbiote, part of the life forms
closed in the ship’s laboratories managed to survive by adapting
to that synthetic environment that would normally have killed
them quickly. With the quarantine protocols deactivated, this new
mutant ecosystem began to spread beyond the labs, through ducts
and cavities, colonizing other areas of the ship undisturbed.
A PROBLEMATIC AWAKENING
Finally reached what was once Union’s territory, the large ship
deactivated its warp engines for the last time and the crew
came out of the cryostasis, eager to finally see familiar worlds
again. Their enthusiasm soon turned to bewilderment when no
communication from space came in response to the
Perseus III’s identifying signal. All around, only silence.
To make matters worse, the crew immediately found themselves
facing an even more shocking discovery: most of the lower decks
were now invaded by a lush alien biome, that had grown way out
of proportion by feeding on the ship’s energy. The attempt
to reactivate the quarantine protocols revealed that the disturbing
ecosystem was so interconnected with the ship’s systems that
it had corrupted its own artificial intelligence. In desperation,
the crew tried to destroy the biome by force. However, it reacted
with astonishing speed, developing increasingly effective
defensive strategies, so much so that over the following months
some crew members lost their lives.
Short of possibilities and with the ship’s energy running out,
Captain Sarel took an extreme but in his opinion necessary
decision. He placed Perseus III in a relatively safe orbit, in the
shadow of the third planet of the neighboring Tau Vorlanis
system. He then ordered the evacuation of the ship apart from
himself, but the first officer, the chief engineer and the science
officer refused to abandon their captain, choosing to stay.
In an attempt to deprive the biome of its sustenance, the core
of the main reactor was ejected and all the ship’s non-essential
systems were shut down, powering the rest with auxiliary
energy provided by backup batteries and external solar surfaces.
The entire rear section of the vessel was then depressurized to
prevent further spread of the infestation. In these circumstances,
Lieutenant Shakar, a young khel engineer, lost his life to manually
eject a blocked escape pod, thus saving some of his crewmates.
Finally, the four remaining officers withdrew to the upper
decks, still uncontaminated, and isolated them from the inside
from the rest of the ship. A distress signal was set to repeat in a
loop, in the hope that help would come sooner or later, as the four
hibernate again, setting an automatic wake cycle every 10 years,
so as to continue monitoring the situation.
THE LONG WAIT
So, every 10 years, the four survivors were regularly awakened
from cryostasis. In the brief periods of wakefulness, they waited
in vain for a response to the distress signal or some proof that any
of their companions had survived. Neither of them ever came.
Increasingly worried by not knowing the cause of such silence
in a region of space they considered home, the four continued
their monitoring routine. While the engineer Vas Nehema ensured
the good state of cryogenic and life support systems, the scientific
officer, Dr. Van Veld, studied and monitored the evolution of the
biome. Unfortunately, during his studies, although protected by
a theoretically impenetrable environmental suit, the scientist was
unknowingly infected by the symbiotic microorganism.
After this event, the science officer began to fall prey to strange
sensations and an inexplicable attractive impulse towards the
biome. During the following awakenings he kept his condition
hidden from his companions but the thing worsened to the point
it caused him hallucinations and psychotic crises. Worried,
his crewmates sedated the scientist and subjected him to medical
tests, discovering the contamination now irremediably spread
throughout his body. Shocked and dejected, they agreed that
the only sensible decision was to end their friend’s life without
waking him up, so as not to make him suffer. However, before
they could do it, the scientist inexplicably awakened despite
the sedatives, reacting to the threat with inhuman strength and
ferocity to the point of killing the three, in the grip of a blind
survival instinct.
Coming to his senses, the man was shocked by what he
had done and began to definitively lose his mind. Now alone
and increasingly prey to delusions and hallucinations, he
mechanically continued to follow the captain’s instructions,
regularly interrupting the cryostasis to check the state of the
spaceship and the possible reception of signals from space.
However, in the end despair got the better of the unfortunate
Doctor Van Veld who, no longer able to bear his own existence
but unable for some reason to end it, decided to hibernate
without setting any awakening.
This is the situation the Perseus III is in when the adventure
begins, some 350 years after its return to the Orion Arm and little
less than two centuries since the last survivor of its crew lies
motionless in his tormented cryogenic sleep.
CHAPTER 3: A VOICE IN THE VOID 51
 ADVENTURE SUMMARY
This adventure is divided into three acts, each of which involves
the exploration of different areas of the colossal wreck of the
Perseus III and the occurrence of various events and scenes.
FIRST ACT: THE WRECK
Like many other “freelance” exploration vessels, the characters’
ship ISV Serendipity was hired by the 79 Suns Confederation’s
Government Exploration Agency (GEA) to map the remote region
of the Frayed Strings, a still unexplored segment of the Outer Edge.
The adventure begins when the Serendipity picks up a
mysterious distress signal that leads the characters to the wreck
of a huge spaceship, still partially sealed and pressurized.
The characters begin to explore the depressurized part of the
abandoned vessel, looking for a way to access its still sealed part.
SECOND ACT: THE BIOME
The characters manage to penetrate the pressurized part of the
wreck but, at that moment, a battered defensive cannon fires at
the Serendipity and then explodes into a thousand pieces. The
hit is enough to break the anchor cables and damage the small
exploration ship’s engines, leaving it adrift and in need of repair.
The characters are thus forced to continue the exploration
looking for a way to return to their ship and repair it.
Entering the belly of the wreck, the characters discover with
great surprise that an alien ecosystem has completely invaded
the cargo bay and the foredecks, leaving untouched only the
upper decks, apparently isolated from the rest of the ship by
a security protocol.
Despite the dangers of the alien biome, the characters continue
to explore discovering clues about the history of the wreck and the
events that led to the current situation, thanks also to the help of
Urania, the ship’s artificial intelligence still active after centuries.
Contacted by a mysterious voice via the ship’s internal
communication systems, the characters are warned of the danger
posed by the biome and guided to the upper decks, the only safe
place in the entire wreck.
THIRD ACT: THE SURVIVOR
Passing through the conduits winding between the bulkheads of
the wreck, the characters reach the bridge where they discover
the identity of the mysterious voice that has guided them there,
namely the science officer Tamìr Van Veld, the only survivor of
the crew of the Perseus III.
The man says he has been waiting for help for centuries and
tries to convince the characters to destroy the ship and the alien
biome with it, activating the self-destruct sequence from the ship’s
computer mainframe and escaping aboard a shuttle still in the
Perseus III hangar. In order to access these areas, however, it is
necessary to disable the emergency lock that isolates them using
the safety codes of the captain and the first officer, kept (according
to the survivor) in the private quarters of the two officers.
However, thanks again to Urania’s help, the characters discover
that Van Veld himself is contaminated by the biome and that,
because of this, he has killed his companions. Urania also points
out to the characters the great scientific importance of the biome
and proposes to save it by directing the Perseus III to the surface
of the planet below, rather than destroying it.
The characters will then have to decide what to do: listening
to Van Veld, Urania, or leaving the wreck to its fate?
52 CHAPTER 3: A VOICE IN THE VOID
USEFUL INFORMATION FOR THE GM
The following sections contain a series of information useful for
running the adventure and handling player’s characters and
non-player characters.
CHARACTERS
The premade characters available in this quickstarter are seven
and make up the small crew of the spaceship ISV Serendipity.
You can run this adventure with a variable number of players
ranging from 3 to 7, although the optimal number is 4 or 5.
Characters not chosen by the players are assumed to remain
on the Serendipity during the course of the adventure and, when
necessary, they will be played by the GM. If there are seven
players and therefore all the characters will actively participate
in the adventure, the Serendipity is considered under the control
of its on-board computer.
CHARACTERS EQUIPMENT
Here’s some general information about the characters equipment
you need to take into account.
Armor: Characters’ armor all have of the following basic functions.
• HEV exosuit: The Hostile Environment and Vaacum (HEV)
exosuits are pressurized suits that protect against the
effects of space vacuum and any other hostile environment.
Wearing a HEV provides 24 hours of life support, resistance
3 to radiation and immunity to the effects of hazardous
atmospheres, gases, airborne poisons and pathogens, space
vacuum, as well as extreme pressures and temperatures.
If a HEV suit is seriously damaged, its benefits are lost.
• Magnetic boots: Boots equipped with magnetic soles that can
be activated at will. When active, they allow to move more or
less normally even in zero gravity conditions, as long as the
wearer is in environments with metal surfaces (such as the
interior of spaceships and space stations). However, moving
in these conditions is not easy (consider the movement speed
of characters halved unless they have the G-Zero skill).
• Flashlight: Mounted on the helmet. It produces a conical
light beam approximately 30 degrees wide. The light is
intense up to the first 10 meters and dim for another 10.
• Comlink: Communication device that allows characters to
stay in contact with each other and with the ISV Serendipity,
within a radius of a few kilometers.
• Basic sensors: Basic sensors can detect the general layout
of the nearby explorable spaces (walls pattern, shape of the
rooms, etc.) within a radius of about 20 meters, displaying an
approximate map on a small screen mounted on the forearm.
• Multiscanner: Sensor device capable of detecting a wide
range of environmental data – such as temperature, pressure,
atmospheric composition, radiation – and to analyze materials,
substances and energy emissions. Interpreting data from
a multiscanner might require INT (Science) checks.
ENC Energy Cells: Standard batteries used to power weapons
and tech devices. At the beginning of the adventure each
character is equipped with 4 ENCs.
Medikit: Medikits are disposable hypojet vials containing a
mix of regenerating and stimulating substances. Using a medkit
requires an action. The creature the medkit is used on instantly
recovers 1d6 + 1 vitality points. At the beginning of the adventure,
each character is equipped with 1 medkit.
IMPORTANT NPCS OF THE ADVENTURE
Name Role Species Gender
Alive
Tamìr Van Veld Chief science officer Terran Male
Urania Artificial Intelligence – Female
Deceased
Eles Vir Sarel Captain Draalani Non-Binary
Nelaris Galorian First mate Valkarian Female
Raeel Vas Nehema Chief engineer Navarian Male
Shakar Lieutenant engineer Khel Male
NON-PLAYER CHARACTERS (NPCS)
For the purposes of this adventure, the most relevant members
of the Perseus III crew are those left on the ship after the
evacuation. Their stories are linked to the plot of the adventure
and the players’ characters will be able to discover them as they
explore the wreck.
The only two NPCs the characters will be able to interact with
directly are Urania, the artificial intelligence of Perseus III, and
Dr. Tamìr Van Veld, the only surviving member of the ship’s
original crew.
THE STATUS OF THE PERSEUS III
The entire rear part of the ship, which includes the engine room
and the engineering deck above, is completely devoid of energy
and depressurized, therefore exposed to the vacuum of space.
On the contrary, the rest of the Perseus III is still sealed and with
breathable air and artificial gravity on the inside.
However, due to the scarce energy supplied by the wreck’s
backup systems, the only parts of the ship still fully functional are
the upper decks (the officers’ deck and the bridge), that are also
completely isolated from the rest of the vessel due to an emergency
protocol set by the captain. The same protocol also keeps the
ship’s computer mainframe and the shuttle hangar close.
Even Urania, the Perseus III’s AI, is cut off from the upper
decks systems as long as the isolation protocol is active.
THE ALIEN CONTAMINATION
The instrumentation possessed by the characters (bioscanner
and the like) can’t identify the presence of the symbiotic
microorganism that allowed the development of the biome.
The characters can discover the existence of such micro-
symbiote only by uncovering the information contained in the
Science Lab computers (Area 7C), interacting with Urania (AI)
and asking her the right questions or, finally, upon the revelation
of the murders perpetrated by the survivor.
Character contamination: In general, the only way a character
can be contaminated by the micro-symbiote is to end up at
0 vitality points (or die) while in the biome-infested areas
of the ship. However, whether contamination occurs or not isn’t
automatic and remains at the GM’s discretion: the infection could
be managed with a random probability (for example 50%)
or be deliberately decided by the GM.
Should a character be contaminated by the biome, run the scene
as explained below.
• If the character dies (instantly or by failing death saves), their
vital signs will inexplicably “reactivate” at the end of the fight.
LEAKS ON EXOSUITS
Exosuits are hardy and capable of self-repairing on a small scale. In
combat, damage from normal weapons causes at most small holes or
tears that seal so quickly that they have no game effect. On the contrary,
serious leaks expose the wearer to the external environmental conditions.
Such leaks could be caused by particularly lucky hits or by weapons with
high offensive potential. It is up to the GM to decide when something is
capable of causing leaks in an exosuit, and to determine what this entails,
depending on the environment the characters are in.
• If the character stabilizes at 0 vitality points, there doesn’t
seem to be anything unusual at first.
If a contaminated character is analyzed with a bioscanner, the
only oddity to be found lies in the fact that none of the injuries
suffered seem to be life threatening, although it initially seemed
the opposite.
If, on the other hand, the character is examined with the
medical equipment located in the secondary infirmary on the
Officers’ Deck (Area 10A), the contamination can be identified
by making a DC 23 INT (Medicine) check.
The contamination has no harmful or beneficial effects (other
than initially averting the character’s death). The only thing
it triggers is a gradual awareness of a psychic connection with
the biome itself. In other words, a contaminated character will
realize over time that they “perceive” the existence of the biome,
regardless of the distance from it.
COLOR CODE
Within the text of the adventure, some paragraphs are highlighted
with colors. The meaning of these colors is explained below.
Descriptions: The text containing descriptions of the environments
that can be explored by the characters or the narration of particularly
important events and scenes occurring during the adventure is
highlighted in blue. At the right moment, you can read these descriptions
directly to the players, or get inspiration to narrate them in your own way.
Plot objects: In green are highlighted crucial objects for the continuation
of the adventure. These object can be obtained by the characters
exploring the environments and interacting with the NPCs and creatures
that populate the Perseus III.
Dangers: Finally, in red are highlighted descriptions of possible dangers,
such as hostile creatures, traps, environmental hazards and other similar
threats. In the case of encounters with hostile creatures, the name of the
creature appears followed by the number of creatures indicated between
brackets. The full description and statistics of NPCs and creatures are
shown in Appendix B.
MAPS
Appendix B presents a series of maps depicting the various
decks of the Perseus III that the characters can explore during
the adventure. Use them as you wish, to better describe the
environments to the players, perhaps by gradually revealing
them as the characters explore the wreck.
OPPONENTS STATISTICS
Appendix B also contains the stat blocks of all the creatures
and the NPCs that the characters might encounter during the
adventure. In addition, there’s also a short guide that will help
you to read and use the stat blocks in the best way.
CHAPTER 3: A VOICE IN THE VOID 53
 FIRST ACT
Read the following paragraph to the players.
If you knew this job was going to be so boring, you probably would
have asked for a much higher fee.
The fact is that the Confederation pays a lot of money to anyone
willing to enter the remote region of the Frayed Strings, a still
unexplored segment of the Outer Edge separating the thriving
Narak complex, firmly controlled by the 79 Suns, from the
Zephir and Cepheus Clouds. Exploring, mapping and collecting
astrometric data. Easy-peasy job and credits guaranteed. There
aren’t many opportunities like this for a group of “freelancers”
like you, so you haven’t thought twice about accepting.
It is well known that the Arkeade Cross has never been the
Confederation’s preferred commercial interlocutor. Having to rely
on them for long-range exchanges has always created discontent.
And things have not improved since the Daloks, cunning
merchants from beyond the Edge, also appeared on the scene.
In all likelihood, the 79 Suns are looking for a way to bypass such
intermediaries, seeking a direct link to the distant systems of the
Cepheus Complex.
You have plenty of time for lucubration like this, as the ISV
Serendipity, your ship, leaps like a flea from one desert system
to another at warp 5.5. Where space is not mapped, the only way
to proceed is short-range, fumbling around in the void. And this
area has a very low stellar density, which is why it was one of the
first to fall into oblivion after the Collapse. Once it was a frontier
territory, now it represents the outer limit of the known, a desolate
region on the edge of the Perseus Chasm.
You’ve been exploring the Frayed Strings for more than a month
now without finding anything really interesting, and for most of you
boredom seems to be the main feature of this contract.
Or so you thought.
You can have the characters interact with each other as an
icebreaker for the players, giving them a quick glimpse of life
aboard the Serendipity before moving on to the next stage.
54 CHAPTER 3: A VOICE IN THE VOID
A MYSTERIOUS SIGNAL
The adventure begins when the Serendipity detects a mysterious
and unexpected signal of unknown origin. When this happens,
a warning light turns on on the communications console and the
inexpressive voice of the on-board computer reports the reception
of an incoming transmission to all the characters present on the
bridge at that moment.
The signal is extremely weak and disturbed, and the on-board
computer seems to have a strangely hard time interpreting its
characteristics.
An intervention by the crew is needed to try to understand
something more.
Examining the signal: The signal can be examined using the Serendipity
on-board computer by making a TEC (Computer) check. The information
obtained depends on the outcome of the check, as indicated below.
Outcome Obtained information
13+ It seems to be a standard distress call transmitted in loop,
but the signal structure does not correspond to any of the
standard encodings used in the Outskirts, at least the ones
you know.
17+ The point of origin of the signal appears to be a star system
near your current position, just under a light-year away.
21+ The signal contains an identification code which appears
to read “PERSEUS III”.
25+ Based on the phase and modulation of the signal, it appears
to be extremely old.
27+ The signal is very weak despite the proximity of the source;
picking it up was really a stroke of luck.
At Warp 5.5 (the maximum the Serendipity can reach), the
journey to the signal source system takes just over 13 hours.
 Upon reaching its destination, the characters’ small spaceship
exits the warp just beyond the confines of the system. From this
position the characters can use the ship’s sensors to gather some
more information about what lies ahead.
Analyzing the star system: It is possible to scan the star system using the
Serendipity sensors by making a TEC (Astronautics) check. The information
obtained depends on the outcome of the check, as indicated below.
Outcome Obtained information
11+ The star that shines at the center of the system is a massive
and bright class B star. Stellar activity is very high and the
system is swept by the powerful radiation emissions and solar
wind from the giant blue star. Five planets orbit around it.
15+ The innermost planet is a gas giant, the second and third are
both rocky, while the two outermost planets both fall into the
icy giants category and orbit at a much greater distance than
the other three planets in the system.
17+ The innermost planet is a large standard gas giant very close
to the star. The surface temperature is extremely high and its
atmosphere, swollen by the immense heat, is slowly blown
away by the solar wind, creating a tail that extends for almost
a light-unit.
21+ The second is a small and rugged rocky planet that orbits
within a sparse asteroid belt. Given the young age of the
system and the small size of the planet, it is plausible that it
has not yet finished cleaning up its orbital belt.
23+ The third planet is a rocky super-earth (with about twice the
mass of the Earth). Despite having a rather strong magnetic
field, its atmosphere is relatively rarefied for a planet of this
size, perhaps due to the strong solar wind and the current
scarcity of volcanic activity on its surface.
25+ The origin of the signal seems to be located near the third
planet of the system.
If they find out the point of origin of the signal thanks to the
analysis of the system, the characters can head towards it without
delay, otherwise they will have to delve into the system’s planets
by proceeding in the dark.
In any case, upon reaching the third planet, the signal becomes
much stronger and clearer, finally making evident its point of
origin, that is, a huge shipwreck orbiting the planet itself. At this
point you can read the following description to the players.
In high orbit around the third planet of the system, a huge wreck
floats lifelessly, the perfectly smooth hull reflecting the bluish rays
of the massive class B star that shines a few light-units away.
It’s a sight none of you could have been prepared for. The ship’s
size is out of scale; there are no Confederation orbital shipyards
capable of hosting hulls of that size. Nor are engineers able to
conceive the curved and sinuous lines hosting its entrails. Yet
there is something familiar about its structure; in all likelihood it
uses propulsion technology extremely similar to yours.
Instinctively, some of you are already beginning to daydream
about how much anything that can be recovered from such a
prodigy of space engineering can make on the market.
Now that they are in the vicinity of its source, the signal is
much less disturbed and, if they had not already discovered it
previously, it is now clear that it contains the identifier “PERSEUS
III”, presumably the name of the mysterious spaceship.
Knowledge about ships named “Perseus”: A character with the
Erudition skill may recall some historical details about spaceships bearing
the name “Perseus” by making an INT (Erudition) check. The information
obtained depends on the outcome of the check, as indicated below.
Outcome Obtained information
17+ “Perseus” is a rather old name, now not very common in the
Outskirts although it is still possible to meet vessels that
boast this name.
25+ Many myths and legends concerning the period of the
Collapse mention the term “Perseus” in one way or another,
sometimes, but not always, associated with a spaceship.
31+ An ancient legend about the Golden Age of the Union tells
of a fleet of 9 extraordinary spaceships sent to explore the
distant Perseus Arm.
CHAPTER 3: A VOICE IN THE VOID 55
 THE BOARDING
Once the wreck has been discovered, the onboard computer of the
Serendipity extrapolates its orbital parameters, establishing that it
orbits the planet approximately every 74 days. However, the orbit
appears to be in slow decay.
By succeeding on a DC 18 INT (Science) check it is possible
to calculate that the ship must have been originally positioned
in an orbit that placed it perpetually in the shadow of the planet
and therefore protected from the most violent emissions from the
star, but something must have subsequently disturbed the orbit,
causing it to slowly decay.
Characters can bring the Serendipity closer to the wreck to try to
analyze it in more detail. A successful DC 18 DES (Piloting) check
allows to approach the wreck at an optimal angle, guaranteeing
advantage on the ability check related to the analysis.
Analyzing the wreck: It is possible to scan the wreck using the Serendipity
sensors by making a TEC (Astronautics) check. The information obtained
depends on the outcome of the check, as indicated below.
Outcome Obtained information
13+ The ship’s reactor core was ejected, leaving it without energy.
However, there seems to be some backup power that keeps
some emergency systems running.
18+ The stern section of the wreck is depressurized while the
central and bow part still seem sealed. It may be possible
to enter the depressurized area and then seek an internal
access route to the pressurized one. Two airlocks located
in the upper part of the stern appear to be possible access
points, one on the dark side and the other on the lit side of
the vessel.
23+ A third possible access could be an opening detected on the
upper part of the hull; it appears to be an escape pod duct
that has been left open for some reason.
28+ The fuselage of the wreck appears to be made of a highly
or resistant metal alloy, with an extremely complex molecular
structure. It is possible to examine the data collected by the
exploit sensors with a DC 17 INT (Science) check. On a success, the
data reveals that creating such a material requires the use
of very advanced nanotechnologies, far above what you can
normally see in the Outskirts.
56 CHAPTER 3: A VOICE IN THE VOID
Unfortunately, the immense size of the ghost ship and the
incompatibility of the hatches prevent a direct docking of the
Serendipity. The characters will instead have to anchor their
ship to the wreck’s hull using magnetic hooks and resistant
nanocarbon cables, choosing whether to anchor to the dark
side of the wreck or to the side exposed to sunlight.
In any case, a successful DC 18 TEC (Astronautics) check
allows the Serendipity to be anchored in an optimal manner,
guaranteeing advantage to the ability checks necessary to reach
the surface of the wreck using the cables (see below).
After the characters are equipped and prepared for boarding,
you can read them the following description.
You are happy to get some “fresh air” and stretch your legs in the
light of a blue sun. The exosuits shield you from the radiation of
the azure giant as you clumsily grip the nanocarbon cable that
takes you, one long second after another, to the huge wreck.
Halfway you feel the need to catch your breath and turn for a
moment towards the Serendipity. All that connects you to your ship
is the strength you place on your fingers’ grip. You are seized by a
strange vertigo. All around reigns a absolute zero void that would
not hesitate to embrace you forever. You grip the cable tighter and
hurry to reach the shining bulkheads of the immense wreck.
Danger: Traversing along the anchor cables. The characters must
make a DC 17 STR (G-Zero) check. If at least half of the party
is successful, all of them can safely descend along the anchor
cables until they land on the surface of the wreck. Otherwise,
the cables begin to swing dangerously and the characters end up
approaching the wreck with too high a speed, taking 1d8 kinetic
damage upon impact with its surface.
A SILENT TOMB
During this part of the adventure, the characters must penetrate
the depressurized zone of the wreck and explore it in search of
a way to access the still sealed sections of the ship.
In describing the locations of this part of the adventure, try
to convey to the players a sense of suspension and stillness,
as if time had stopped there.
PENETRATING THE WRECK
After descending along the anchor cables, the characters find
themselves walking on the surface of the wreck hull thanks to
the magnetic boots of their exosuits.
Analyzing the wreck, the characters should have identified
some possible access points: two airlocks located on the sides of
the ship and possibly the duct of an escape pod left open on the
top of its fuselage. Based on the information in their possession,
the characters will have to choose how to proceed.
AIRLOCKS
Located respectively on the dark side (Airlock 1) and on the
lit side (Airlock 2) of the wreck. Obviously, the closest airlock
depends on which side the characters have chosen to anchor the
Serendipity. Reaching the farthest airlock requires a nice stroll
on the wreck’s fuselage.
In any case, the characters will have to find a way to manually
open the airlock hatch to access the inside of the wreck. They can
approach the problem in various ways but there are essentially
three possible solutions:
• If they are on the same side of the wreck the Serendipity
is anchored, characters can use their ship’s weapons to
blow up the hatch. If they do that, the hatch turns out to be
decidedly tough, yielding only on the third hit. However, upon
its shattering, the hatch throws shards of hot metal in all
directions and players must succeed on a DC 19 DEX (Reflex)
saving throw or take 1d10 kinetic damage.
• If the characters have explosive with them, they can try to
blow up the hatch with it, damaging it irreparably. The task
is delicate and requires a DC 19 TEC (Explosives) check.
On a success, the explosion breaks through the hatch but is
controlled and causes no problem. Otherwise, the characters
will have to succeed on a DC 16 DEX (Reflex) saving throw to
avoid being thrown off by the shock wave and take 1d6 kinetic
damage due to the impact with the fragments of the hatch.
• If characters search around, a DC 18 PER (Inspection) check
reveals a removable panel that hides the manual door release
mechanism. Once unlocked, a DC 17 STR (Might) check allows
to open the hatch (if the character making this last check is
helped by others, they gain advantage).
Once the obstacle has been overcome, the characters will find
themselves inside the airlock, which internal doors, open, give
access respectively to Area 1, if it is Airlock 1, or to Area 2 if it
is the Airlock 2 instead.
ESCAPE POD DUCT
Reaching the conduit from the anchoring point requires a roughly
equivalent walk, regardless of which side the characters have
anchored their ship to.
Once at the duct’s opening, any character with the
Mechatronics skill can easily deduce that the closing diaphragm
of the duct is blocked for some reason, leaving the duct open.
The conduit is about 10 meters wide and allows the characters
to enter it without problems. However, at the end, the path is
blocked by a diaphragm similar to the one left open at the exit,
but closed this time. The characters will have to find a way to
cross it. There are essentially two possible solutions:
• If the characters have explosive with them, they can try to
blow up the diaphragm with it, damaging it irreparably. The
task is delicate and requires a DC 19 TEC (Explosives) check.
On a success, the explosion breaks through the diaphragm but
is controlled and causes no problem. Otherwise, the characters
will have to succeed on a DC 16 DEX (Reflex) saving throw to
avoid being thrown off by the shock wave and take 1d6 kinetic
damage due to the impact with the bulkheads of the duct.
• If the characters search around, a DC 18 PER (Inspection)
check reveals a removable panel that hides the manual
diaphragm release mechanism. Once unlocked, a DC 17
STR (Might) check allows to open the diaphragm (if the
character making this last check is helped by others, they gain
advantage).
Having overcome the obstacle, the PCs will find themselves
in the empty housing of an escape pod that communicates directly
with Area 3.
ENTERING THE PERSEUS III
Once the characters manage to penetrate inside the wreck, first
read the following description and then go to the area indicated
based on the path chosen by the characters.
The lights of your suits stretch out, clumsy and imprecise, among
wide corridors and halls as large as your own ship. The grandeur
of the spaces instills in you a certain awe, highlighted by the stasis
that reigns supreme everywhere.
Small everyday objects float in mid-air: utensils, technical tools,
screws and bolts. They are fragments of a distant past that you
find difficult to put together.
Taking a look around, characters with a Tech score of 3
or higher can easily realize that they are in an area used for
mechanical and technician work – probably the “engineering
deck” of Perseus III.
This spaceship level is divided into four sections (Areas 1 to 4)
that can be completely explored by the characters. The immense
engine room of the wreck is also depressurized and located
exactly below the engineering bridge, but it is inaccessible.
The environments are completely dark and the only lights
are those projected by the flashlights mounted on the characters’
helmets. Gravity is also absent so the characters will only be
able to move normally thanks to their magnetic boots. Finally,
the absence of air prevents the propagation of sounds, so the
characters will find themselves immersed in total silence, apart
from their voices and the other transmissions they receive on
their comlinks. However, they could sense vibrations through
floors, walls, and other surfaces of the wreck structure.
CHAPTER 3: A VOICE IN THE VOID 57
 AREA 1: MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR BAY
If the characters have chosen to penetrate the wreck via Airlock 1,
they will find themselves in this area of the ship. Otherwise, they
will access it coming from Area 3.
In any case, the first time the characters enter Area 1, read
them the following description.
The lights of your flashlights squeeze through the metal grates
you walk on. Under oil stains and dents, a dense network of
metal pipes stretches intricately. From the ceiling hangs a leaden
forest of enormous pulleys, among which the light is lost. You are
unable to guess the ceiling’s true height. To keep you company in
the immense corridors, only sporadic containers with geometric
shapes. Like plastic boulders on an anthracite path, they sparkle
covered with frost.
1A: FREIGHT ELEVATOR
The center of the room is dominated by a huge round-based
freight elevator. Around it a balustrade of metallic tongues
extends towards the ceiling, outlining a hemisphere. Positioned as
guardians of the structure, four pistons tower like the columns of
an ancient industrial temple. Below them, two colossal serrated
wheels are lost halfway into the floor, still protruding more than
three meters in height. The freight elevator seems to be the
terminal of a conveyor belt that from there enters a vast passage,
the end of which you cannot see from here.
The freight elevator’s size is impressive. It is quite easy to
deduce that it had to be used to transport large machinery and
components from the engine room below to the repair workshops
on this deck, and vice versa. The large passage leading to area 1B
is equipped with an obviously inactive conveyor belt.
1B: MAIN WORKSHOP
Small marbles of black oil float suspended in the vacuum, around
the torn pipes of a huge piece of equipment under repair. Around
it, like the retracted legs of a dead insect, rest a dozen black and
curved mechanical arms, frozen in time. Soldering tips sparkle when
they meet the light from your flashlights. A pair of V-shaped ionizers
seem to hiss against you like tongues of stone snakes. Not far away,
the remains of an astronaval drone lie lifeless.
All around, machinery, scrap and components of all sorts dot the
floor of the workshop, varying from the size of a small transport
shuttle to those of an automated garbage bin of “Coranis 9”.
The main workshop is a large room with a ceiling that is at least
ten meters high. The floor is crossed by various trenches about
two meters deep, partially surmounted by metal walkways and
platforms, often occupied by large disassembled machinery.
A series of signs and indications are visible on the walls and
handrails, adding splashes of color to an otherwise completely
monochromatic environment (see the Linguistic Problems box).
Hostile Encounter: Malfunctioning Defensive Drone (1). As the
characters examine the large workshop, what looked like the
inert carcass of a damaged astronaval drone suddenly activates,
starting to hover clumsily in mid-air and moving debris that
begins to float in all directions. Before they can react, characters
must succeed on a DC 17 DEX (Reflex) saving throw or be hit by
stray debris taking 1d6 kinetic damage.
Once the drone is shot down, if the characters examine its
remains they will find inside it an energy core still retaining
some charge (13%). The core could be useful for powering other
devices of the Perseus III.
58 CHAPTER 3: A VOICE IN THE VOID
LINGUISTIC PROBLEMS
By stumbling upon signs and indications inside the wreck, the characters
will soon realize that the language used on the Perseus III is not easily
understood. Curiously, although at first sight it seems an unknown
language, the alphabet used is almost identical to the Espar one and
several words seem very similar to those known by the characters.
Understanding the language of Perseus III: A character with the
Erudition skill can examine the unusual language trying to understand
something more.
Succeeding on an CD 16 INT (Erudition) check leads to the conclusion
that the language seems to be a dialect or a deviated form of Espar,
perhaps caused by a long isolation from other Espar users.
If the outcome of the check is 20 or higher (or generates an exploit),
many archaic lexical forms are spotted, too many to be a derivative
dialect, and indeed more similar to what can be read in texts dating back
to the beginning of the Outskirts. The most logical conclusion is that it is
a pure but extremely ancient form of Espar.
A character who comes to this last conclusion can try to translate this
archaic form of Espar on the fly, both in written and oral form. However,
each attempt to do so requires to succeed on a DC 20 INT (Erudition)
check. After a while, practice (at least 3 or 4 successes) the translation
starts to get easier, and subsequent checks will have CD 17.
Creating a translation algorithm: Alternatively, a character with
the Computer skill can try to develop a translation algorithm using the
onboard computer of the Serendipity, but it requires to collect a good
amount of written (or spoken) material from Perseus III.
Creating the algorithm requires an initial CD 19 TEC (Computer)
check. The check has advantage if the person carrying it out also has
the Erudition skill or is helped by someone who has it. However, the
Serendipity computer needs about half an hour to develop an effective
algorithm. If the result of the check is 23 or higher, the time required for
processing the algorithm is halved.
Once the translation algorithm is created and transmitted to the
characters’ suits software, it will allow them to translate the archaic
Espar of Perseus III in real time and with good approximation, both in
written and oral form.
1C: SECONDARY WORKSHOP (AUTOMATONS)
Shortly after the entrance, a metal barrel a meter in diameter
turns out to be a large lubrication tank. Above it, the metallic guts
of an automaton glisten in the light of the torches. The rest of the
robot lies on the floor.
Beyond the tub, a series of circular work areas are surmounted
by a tangle of mechanized arms and other tools hanging from the
ceiling, while a series of white shelves unravel all around. Their
smooth surfaces still bear black imprints of the hands of those
who worked there.
Smaller workshop evidently specialized in the repair and
maintenance of on-board automaton. There are large workstations
and niches along the walls, some of which contain obviously
damaged automaton. Inside a work area, is still hanging for repair
a partially disassembled service automaton. A character with the
Mechatronics qualification examining such a robot can easily
realize that perhaps it could be reactivated.
If the characters search the workshop, they can easily find
various energy cores that were probably used to power the
automaton. However, only one of these cores retains some charge
(25%) and finding it among the many cores requires a DC 17
INT (Investigation) check. A similar energy core is also recoverable
from the out of control drone’s wreck in area 1B, after having
shot it down.
 Reactivating the automaton: A characters with the Mechatronics skill
can try to reactivate the service automaton using technical tools and the
functioning energy core (found inside the workshop). The attempt takes
about 10 minutes of work and a DC 21 TEC (Mechatronics) check.
If the check fails, the automaton is more damaged than expected and
there is no hope of reactivating it.
If, on the other hand, the check succeeds, the automaton reactivates but
its damaged servomotors do not allow it to move. The energy core has
enough energy to keep the automaton active for about 25 minutes (or 13
minutes if using the core obtained from the defensive drone in area 1B).
Communicating with the automaton: Unfortunately, the absence
of atmosphere prevents the propagation of sounds so the only way
to communicate with the automaton is to connect its voice interface
directly with the characters’ comlinks. Doing so requires a DC 18 TEC
(Mechatronics or Tampering) check.
However, even overcoming these technical problems, being able to
communicate effectively with the automaton is complicated due to the
difference between the characters’ language and that used by the robot
(see the Linguistic Problems box).
An alternative solution could be to overwrite the linguistic database
of the automaton with that of the Serendipity computer, using once
again the connection guaranteed by comlinks. Doing so requires a DC
23 TEC (Computer) check. However, if the check fails, the entire data
memory of the robot is irretrievably erased, and the characters lose any
information the automaton could have provided.
Information obtainable from the automaton: If the technical and
linguistic problems are overcome, the characters will be able to speak
with the automaton. By asking the right questions they might get the
following information.
The robot was being repaired because it had suffered serious damage
due to a failure in the targeting software of some security drones,
which were activated while undergoing the usual diagnostics, starting
to shoot at random.
The robot was reactivated several times during the repair phases,
to test the integrity of its neural networks, but the repair times were
unusually long. The last thing he recorded before the last deactivation
was it distinctly hearing about a “general evacuation order”.
1D: MAIN WORKSHOP’S REPOSITORY
A small repository where a series of crates and spare parts are
abandoned in part over and in part around the shelves, making the
space even more cramped.
The repository is full of spare parts, technical tools, small
scrap and repair waste. With a DC 16 PER (Inspection) check,
the characters can spot a pair of barrel-sized cylinders among the
junk. Characters with the Mechatronics skill easily understand
that these are backup batteries typically used in spaceships.
One of these still seems to work.
Backup battery: Working (67% charged). It can be inserted in
one of the special compartments in Area 2A to restore energy
to the corresponding section of the engineering bridge.
1E: STORAGE AND DRONES SHED
A winding walkway crosses what must have been the storage
area of the machinery sector. An elaborate architecture of cubes
riddled with compartments surrounds you with its suspended
geometries, crammed with spare parts, tools, containers and
pressurized bottles.
After a series of large magnetic locked crates, the walkway
widens into a larger space, revealing the kaleidoscopic shed of
astronaval drones. Hanging from a web of moving lanes, a vast
array of bizarre-shaped robots cover the space from floor to
ceiling, in a tangle of mechanical appendages hanging in the void.
The shelves and large magnetic locked crates contain raw
materials and mechanical components that were to be used by
the repair workshops.
In addition to the crates, the hall is dominated by the enormous
structures that make up the stowage compartments of the
Perseus III spaceship’s drones. It contains astromech, mining and
defensive drones. By succeeding on a DC 14 PER (Alertness or
Inspection) check, it is possible to notice that among the various
slots of the drone stowage compartment, some are empty.
Danger: Pressurized containers. If the characters start looking
among the materials stored in this area, they end up stumbling
upon some cryogenic containers that are still pressurized.
However, the closures are now made extremely fragile by time
and, if they are even minimally moved, they open violently,
releasing a cloud of cryogenic gas within a radius of 10 meters.
All characters within this area must make a DC 19 DEX
(Reflex) saving throw, taking 2d6 energy damage (cold) if they
fail, or half that damage if they succeed.
CHAPTER 3: A VOICE IN THE VOID 59
 AREA 2: PRODUCTION AND BACKUP
If the characters have chosen to penetrate the wreck via Airlock 2,
they will find themselves in this area of the ship. Otherwise, they
will access it coming from Area 3.
In any case, the first time the characters enter Area 2, read them
the following description.
You find yourself observing a large corridor with smooth
white walls. However, you manage to guess the outline of the
tessellations and panels, some of which seem to have been
removed, revealing a dense network of pipes running inside the
compartments and cavities. Above your heads, the extinguished
coils of the lights that once illuminated these rooms break up the
otherwise smooth bronze surface of the ceilings, like fossil worms
swimming in an amber river.
2A: CONVOGLIATORE PRINCIPALE DELL’ENERGIA
From the floor of the room bursts a huge metal cylinder about
three meters in diameter. This colossal duct opens above your
heads in a tangle of electrical tendrils that are lost in the darkness
of the ceiling. Under this colossal tree structure, the room is
mainly occupied by a series of monolithic parallelepipeds that
house electrical panels and systems for monitoring energy flows.
On the walls, skinny metal ladders rise from the floor towards
a series of walkways immersed in a vortex of cables, pipes,
capacitors and electro-ionic coils.
In this room comes the main duct carrying the energy from
the ship’s generator to the entire Engineering Deck. Basically
it’s a sort of powerhouse.
On one of the walls of the room there are four semi-cylindrical
spaces, each equipped with a manual relay and marked with
a sign. Probably each of the four signs corresponds to one of the
sections of the engineering bridge (see the Linguistic problems
box). In one of these compartments there is a cylindrical object
that could be a backup battery, but it seems completely exhausted.
Restoring energy to engineering deck sections: If characters plug
a functioning backup battery into one of the compartment and activate
its relay, they will restore power to the corresponding engineering deck
section, activating lights, terminals and machinery, or at least those that
are still functional. A couple of still functioning backup batteries can
be found by inspecting the various rooms of the engineering deck.
Obviously, the autonomy of the batteries is limited: the charge of
a battery decreases by 1% for every minute of use. When the charge
reaches 0%, the battery becomes useless.
Warning! One of the batteries that may be found by the characters
is defective. If used without first being repaired it could be seriously
dangerous (see below).
Danger: Defective backup battery. If the characters use the
defective battery without first repairing it, initially everything
seems to work normally and in the section corresponding
to the compartment used, energy returns. However, a few
seconds later a red warning light comes on and the battery
quickly begins to overheat.
Nearby characters who notice the problem can attempt
to deactivate the relay on the fly by making a DC 18
DEX (Slight of Hand) check, avoiding the worst. If no one can
deactivate the relay, the battery will explode and all characters
within 5 meters of it must make a DC 20 DEX (Reflex) saving
throw, taking 2d6 energy damage (burning) if they fail, or half
that damage if they succeed.
The compartment used is damaged by the explosion but can
be repaired in 30 minutes of work by using technical tools and
succeeding on a DC 17 TEC (Mechatronics) check.
60 CHAPTER 3: A VOICE IN THE VOID
2B: MACRO-PRODUCTION WORKSHOPS
In the center of the huge hall there are impressive cubic structures
made up of complex metal frames and grids. As you approach one
of them, the light from your helmets shines on the silhouettes of
a dozen mechanical arms that rest within it, kneeling around the
sarcophagus of an under construction engine.
Further on, a tangle of conveyor rollers is dominated by another
series of arched robotic limbs hanging from mobile scaffolding,
like the ribs of a huge metal rib cage.
A vast factory dominated by large structures equipped with
robotic arms. Basically it is some sort of huge and super-advanced
version of 3D printers and automatic assembly systems.
A series of signs and indications are visible on the walls and
handrails, adding splashes of color to an otherwise completely
monochromatic environment (see the Linguistic Problems box).
If the characters search within the area, a DC 21 PER
(Inspection) check allows them to find among the various crates
of materials, a case containing a set of advanced technical tools,
specific to the Perseus III. When used, these technical tools give
advantage on any TEC (Mechatronics or Tampering) check carried
out on the Perseus III machinery and systems.
If energy is restored to this section of the deck, the assembly
and printing machines are restarted automatically following
their programs but they will produce nothing since the systems
that provide them with the raw materials to work on are
completely off-line.
2C: MICRO-PRODUCTION WORKSHOPS
A series of heavy metal tables bolted to the floor are surmounted
by glass parallelepipeds supported by plastic frames. Inside
them, a myriad of small dendrites ending with precision laser
projectors hang from above, as if they were the tentacles of
strange cybernetic creatures. Presumably these are precision
3D printing machines, and indeed, some of them still appear to
contain objects.
Among the tables, the screens of some control stations reflect
the light, projecting iridescent reflections.
If the characters search inside the production devices, within
one of them they will find a Plasma Burner completely assembled
and functional but exhausted (see the Plasma Burner box).
By searching further and succeeding on a DC 17 PER (Inspection)
check, the characters can also find 2 charging cylinders for the
burner (each charging cylinder allows the burner to be triggered
5 times before running out).
If power is restored to this section of the deck, it will be possible
to access the control terminals of the production machinery
and discover that, in addition to various spare parts, they were
producing plasma burners (but why?).
PLASMA BURNER
A Activating a plasma burner requires an action. When activated, it
generates an area of effect in the shape of a line 10 meters long and
1 meter wide. All creatures in the area must make a DC 18 DEX (Reflex)
saving throw, taking 3d6 energy damage if they fail, or half that damage
if they succeed.
In addition, creatures that fail their saving throw catch fire, taking
1d6 energy damage at the end of each of their turn until the flames are
extinguished. A creature can extinguish the flames on itself or on an
adjacent creature using an action.
AREA 3: ENGINEERING CONTROL ROOM
If the characters have chosen to enter the wreck via the escape
pod duct, they will find themselves in this area of the ship.
Otherwise, they will access it coming from Area 1 or Area 2.
In any case, the first time the characters enter Area 3, read
them the following description.
You find yourself observing a large room with circular outlines.
All around, barely visible in the faint beams of your flashlights,
mighty metal infrastructures start from the floor and rise
upwards to draw huge arches above your heads, supporting a
hemispherical ceiling from which center descends an impressive
cylindrical column that ends suspended three or four meters
above the ground, opening up like an enormous flower of monitors
with smooth, pitch-black surfaces.
Below it, the center of the room is occupied by a large raised
platform also with a circular plan, suspended above a chasm
of total darkness and accessible only via a series of inclined
walkways equipped with balustrades.
On the side walls of the room, splashes of color mark the
presence of several doors, while a few wider passages open to
corridors engulfed by darkness.
The side doors give access to changing rooms and other utility
areas for the staff, such as toilets and storage rooms.
3A: CONTROL CENTER
Above the raised platform, a massive octagonal table marks
the exact center of the big room, just below the crown of blank
screens hanging from the cylinder that descends from the ceiling.
When your lights touch the surface of the table, it shines as if
it were encrusted with crystals. It must be a highly articulated
interactive holographic projector. All around, the external part
of the platform is occupied by about twenty workstations, each
associated with a series of large transparent glass monitors.
The prevailing darkness does not do justice to what must have
been a labyrinth of lights and information, aimed at monitoring the
main activities of this section of the ship.
If power is restored to this section of the deck, the various
terminals of the control center are activated. Many of the monitors
turn out to be down or malfunctioning, while the intact ones show
error screens and failure warnings.
Above the large holographic table in the center of the room
appears the translucent and flickering outline of the internal
structure of the Perseus III, surrounded by a multitude of little
windows containing warnings about systems offline, critical
failures, main energy being offline, insufficient auxiliary energy,
and so on.
Examining the control center terminals: The control center terminals
contain a variety of freely accessible information. If the characters
manage to overcome the usual linguistic hurdle (see the Linguistic
Problems box), they obtain the following information.
• The structural diagram displayed by the holographic table allows you to
give the players the decks layout of the Perseus III (see Appendix B).
• From the same diagram, the characters can easily understand that
the cargo bay and foredecks appear to be accessible, while the upper
decks, mainframe and shuttle hangar are isolated by a security lock.
Protected information: There are also a series of protected data
archives, accessible only thanks to a tech staff access badge or by
succeeding on a DC 21 TEC (Computer) check made to bypass the
IT protections. By accessing these archives, the characters obtain the
following information.
• Systems diagnostics chronology: It allows the characters to
understand that the Perseus III must have made an incredibly
long journey. Furthermore, the activity of the engineering deck is
interspersed with long periods of automatic monitoring, suggesting
that, presumably, the crew spent most of the journey in cryostasis.
• Engineering deck layout and inventory: It allows the characters to
identify any areas of the deck that have not yet been explored, and
to figure out which rooms might contain useful items (that they
haven’t already found). Specifically the areas 1D and 4A (backup
batteries), 1C (the repairable automaton), 2B (the advanced technical
tools) and 2C (the plasma burner).
CHAPTER 3: A VOICE IN THE VOID 61
 3B: CHANGING ROOMS AND UTILITY ROOMS
The walls of the room are almost entirely occupied by a long
succession of lockers, while a series of benches are anchored
to the floor. Some semi-open lockers allow the light from your
helmets to reflect on a collection of personal effects, tools,
photographs and documents. In mid-air, some lab coats and
a few other garments float with the naturalness of ghosts.
Among the lockers, an opaque glass door connects the changing
room to a room with glossy walls from which thin tubes emerge,
ending in strange disks with a ridged bottom, while the floor is
crossed by thin channels leading to small sinkholes.
If the characters start inspecting these rooms, it won’t be long
before they notice the body huddled in the space between two
lockers. When this happens, read them the following description.
Huddled in the space separating two lockers, you see the body of
a humanoid. The corpse wears an unusual-looking exosuit with the
Perseus III symbol on the chest, but does not wear a helmet, that
lies less than a meter away, still resting on the ground despite the
absence of gravity. But what surprises you the most are the long
tail and the angular reptilian features. Amazed, you realize that
you are standing before the corpse of a khel (see the Khels box).
Examining the corpse: Characters can examine the corpse to try to find
out some information about it.
• Scanning the corpse with a bioscanner and succeeding on a DC 18
INT (Medicine) check reveals that the khel died from sudden vacuum
exposure, probably when this area of the ship was depressurized. If
the outcome of the check is 21 or higher (or generates an exploit)
the exam reveals the absence of stress or agitation signs before
death, which can lead to suppose that the victim knew he was dying
and had accepted it.
• A CD 21 TEC (Cybernetics) check reveals that the khel’s right hand is
artificial. The quality of the cybernetic prosthesis is amazing, at first
glance indistinguishable from its natural counterpart. Other signs on
the body could indicate the presence of some other small cybernetic
implant within the khel.
• By succeeding on a DC 18 PER (Inspection) check, a tech staff
access badge and a datapad are found on the corpse (see below).
Examining the exosuit: A DC 17 TEC (Cybernetics) check reveals a
series of special joints and polymorphic materials that allow the suit to
adapt to most known humanoid anatomies, making it wearable from the
smallest ja’raki to the most massive kergan. If the outcome of the check
is 20 or higher (or generates an exploit) it becomes also evident that the
helmet was voluntarily removed.
Examining the datapad: The datapad appears functional but has no
power. By succeeding on a DC 18 TEC (Mechatronics or Tampering)
check, it is possible to connect the datapad to one of the character’s ENC
energy cells, thus allowing the datapad to be switched on and in doing so
accessing the following information.
The datapad contains a long series of notes written in the strange
language used on the Perseus III. If the characters manage to overcome
the usual linguistic obstacle (see the Linguistic Problems box) they can
understand that it is mainly work logs and personal notes. Other notes
are written in a completely incomprehensible language, perhaps the
native language of the khel. The last personal note reads: “I did the right
thing, I’m no longer afraid”. Apparently, the khel was called Shakar and
was an engineer with the rank of lieutenant.
62 CHAPTER 3: A VOICE IN THE VOID
KHELS
The khels (otherwise known as saurians or lizards) are a species of
humanoid reptiles with a rather mysterious origin.
In the Outskirts they can be found scattered over hundreds of worlds,
where they mainly populate swamps and tropical jungles, gathered in
small tribal societies based on hunting; they are territorial, xenophobic
and almost completely lack technology. Encountering khels outside
these primitive communities is quite rare, and when it happens, they are
mostly slaves or mercenaries.
How a primitive species such as the khels could have spread to
multiple planets still remains an unsolved puzzle, to which recently
have been added rumors that the fearsome Zatarian, a warlike and
bloodthirsty species said to come from a zone of space beyond the Inner
Edge, are actually khels, at least biologically.
Tech staff access badge: Small electronic badge containing
the identification codes of the technical staff of the Perseus III. It
automatically overcomes all the access blocks that require these
codes, simply by bringing it closer to the affected devices.
In addition to the corpse, looking through the lockers it is
possible to find a varied series of personal effects that belonged to
the crew members who worked in this section of the ship. Mostly
objects of common use, nothing of interest. Except for a couple
of holographic photos still not erased by time, hung on the inside
of a locker door. If the characters find the photos, read them the
following description.
Inside a locker, a couple of holographic photos give off a very faint
luminescence. Ruined by time but still visible, they depict two very
different scenes.
In the first one, a draalani, a navarian and a terran, all three
quite young, stand in one of the corridors of the engineering
deck. They pose for the shot amicably embraced and smiling,
wearing what must have been the uniform of the Perseus III. In the
background, behind the three, another crew member can be seen
walking down the corridor behind them, this time an iradian.
In the second photo, you can see instead a crowd of people
surrounding an elderly draalani and a valkarian, both in full
uniform, standing in front of a tall humanoid of unknown species,
with very bizarre anatomy and clothing. Among the crowd, in the
midst of those who appear to be members of the crew of the
Perseus III, are recognizable other individuals belonging to the
same species as the being in the center.
Examining the travel photos: By looking more closely at the photos,
the characters may be able to guess a little more.
By succeeding on a DC 17 WIL (Socialite) check, the characters can
conclude that the second photo portrays some kind of formal moment.
Both individuals in full uniform appear to be high-ranking officers, but
the elder draalani gives the impression of being the highest in rank. They
could be respectively the captain and the first mate of the Perseus III.
By succeeding on a DC 19 INT (Science or Nature) check, the
characters can see that the unknown beings portrayed in the second
photo together with the crew members of the Perseus III do not belong
to any of the humanoid species currently known in the Outskirts. If the
outcome of the check is 23 or higher (or generates an exploit) they can
even assume from the bizarre features of this unknown species that they
are native to another part of the galaxy, outside the known space.
AREA 4: SECURITY BUFFER
The characters can access this area coming from Area 3. The
first time the characters enter Area 4, read them the following
description.
The architecture changes, suggesting an evolution of the ship. The
shapes are rounded around the corners and the ceilings become
lower. The corridor ends in front of the large metal hinges of a
half-open hatch. Around them a frieze of yellow and black lines
culminates in the huge letters of a writing. Just before the hatch,
on the left, a sturdy service door appears closed and sealed.
Before that, on both sides of the corridor, two passages open up
to what appear to be warehouses.
4A: EQUIPMENT WAREHOUSES
Most of the bare surfaces of this room are occupied by a
checkerboard of semi-open compartments, shelves, containers
and plastic cases of various shapes and size.
Only the long back wall seems clear, revealing a series of vertical
niches the size of an average humanoid. At first glance they all
seem empty, but when the light rays of your flashlights land on the
niches farthest from the entrance, some fleeting reflections betray
the presence of something inside them.
Both warehouses are crammed with materials among which the
characters may find something useful. The last niche of the back
wall contains an emergency exosuit from the Perseus III (there
is one in both warehouses). It is likely that also the other niches
contained one once.
Perseus III exosuit: At first glance it’s a simple HEV exosuit with no
reinforcement or armor. However, if examined in detail by succeeding
on a DC 17 TEC (Cybernetics) check, the suit reveals a series of special
joints and polymorphic materials that allow it to adapt to most of the
known humanoid anatomies, making it wearable from the smallest ja’raki
to the most massive kergan.
Searching in the warehouses: It is possible to search for something useful
inside the warehouses by making a PER (Inspection) check. The result of
the search depends on the outcome of the check, as indicated below.
Outcome Objects found
15+ Spare parts, tools and materials, nothing interesting
17+ Backup battery (see below)
19+ 1 fire extinguisher (enough to extinguish the flames in a 3x3
meters area).
21+ 5 “blank” crew badges, without access identification. If
you have a badge that already has an access code, you can
“clone” it into one of these.
Backup battery: Working but defective (46% charged).
A character with the Mechatronics skill can discover the
malfunction by examining the battery and succeeding on a
DC 17 TEC (Mechatronics) check.
Once the fault is discovered, it is possible to attempt to
circumvent it with a DC 18 TEC (Tampering) check. If the check
is successful, the battery is fully functional again but its charge is
halved. If the outcome of the check is 22 or higher (or generates
an exploit) the charge remains unchanged.
Once repaired, the battery can be inserted in one of the special
compartments in Area 2A to restore energy to the corresponding
section of the engineering deck.
If, however, the battery is used before being repaired, it could
cause serious damage (see Area 2A).
4B: SAFETY AIRLOCK CONTROL ROOM
The control room’s door is closed and with no power. If
energy is restored to this section of the deck, the door will
be operational, but to open it you need a security staff access
badge. Alternatively, a DC 20 TEC (Computer) check allows the
characters to bypass the codes and open the door without having
the badge.
The small rectangular room contains on the right side a long
control console, surmounted by a large window beyond which
a larger space seems to open up. A couple of chairs are still
motionless in the position they were in when the artificial
gravity disappeared, while above them, a flock of sheets
is frozen in a centuries-long leap.
The room contains only the controls of the safety airlock
beyond the glass. On the control panel, however, the characters
can easily notice an access badge, still resting there despite the
absence of gravity.
Security staff access badge: Small electronic badge containing
the identification codes of the Perseus III security personnel.
It automatically overcomes all the access blocks that require
these codes, simply by putting it close to the affected devices.
4C: SAFETY AIRLOCK
By slipping past the heavy half-open hatch you find yourself in
a square space of about ten meters per side. The back wall is
occupied by a massive airtight door very similar to the one you just
passed by. Unlike that one, this seems to be hermetically sealed.
On the left, a series of stylized drawings illustrate a sequence of
indications flanked by symbols containing exclamation points and
alphanumeric codes. On the other side of the room, behind a large
window, you can glimpse a second room immersed in darkness.
At the center of the chamber there is a control terminal.
If power is restored to this section of the deck, the safety airlock
becomes operational and its control terminals are activated (both
in the chamber itself and in the adjacent control room).
If the characters have a tech or security staff access badge,
the control terminals are automatically accessible. Alternatively,
a character with the Computer skill can attempt to bypass security
protocols by using an intrusion kit and succeeding a DC 20 TEC
(Computer) check.
Once they have gained access to the control terminals, the
characters will be able to close the door they entered from and
re-pressurize the airlock, thus unlocking the opposite door, that
allows access to the still pressurized portion of the Perseus III.
If the characters manage to overcome the usual linguistic
obstacle (see the Linguistic Problems box), the procedure does
not require any check and is automatically successful; otherwise
it is necessary to make a DC 18 TEC (Astronautics) check to
understand by trial and error which is the correct sequence
of commands to execute.
When the characters manage to unlock the access door
to the pressurized area of the Perseus III, go to the Second Act.
CHAPTER 3: A VOICE IN THE VOID 63
 SECOND ACT
Small vapor cones emanate from the holes surrounding the
massive airtight door. Microscopic ice crystals start sweeping the
surfaces of your suits, covering them with a thin layer of frost.
As the air slowly fills the sealed chamber and the artificial
gravity is restored, the floor clearly vibrates under your feet.
Then, the sounds return to fill the environment and the echo of
an explosion reaches your ears as you are thrown into the air by a
violent shock that makes the entire hull of the wreck tremble.
A disturbed and distorted communication reaches the comlinks
of your suits: “Multiple failures! Activation of the emergency
stabilizers for evasive maneuvers! Hostility detected!”. It comes
from Serendipity.
The unlocking of the hatch giving access to the pressurized
area of the wreck triggers an unexpected defensive protocol
and one of the battered defensive guns of the Perseus III fires at
the Serendipity and then explodes into a thousand pieces. The
hit is enough to break the anchor cables and damage the small
exploration ship’s engines, leaving it adrift and in need of repair.
Characters aboard the Perseus III will thus be forced to search
the wreck in hopes of finding a way back to their spaceship.
In addition, the opening of the airtight door causes the automatic
interruption of the cryostasis of the Perseus III survivor, starting
the awakening procedure.
A series of flashing messages appear on the screen of the
airlock’s control terminal.
“Attention, biological contamination detected”
“Attention, multiple malfunctions detected”
“Attention, unauthorized intrusion detected”
“Defensive protocols activated”
“Attention, external defense systems offline”
From the communication coming from Serendipity, the
characters learn the following information:
• The anchor cables broke.
• The maneuvering engines were damaged.
• The Serendipity is adrift away from the wreck and will soon
be out of communication range.
• Damage diagnostics in progress; situation update as soon
as possible.
During this second act of the adventure, the characters will
find themselves immersed in a vast and varied alien ecosystem
that has completely invaded the cargo bay and foredecks of the
Perseus III. As they explore it, the characters will be able to
examine and study this alien “biome” to try to understand its
nature and perhaps reveal its origins. In this regard, see the
box “Interacting with the biome”.
64 CHAPTER 3: A VOICE IN THE VOID
THE DREAM
The airlock door opens but gets stuck less than halfway. On the
other side, preventing it from opening completely, are strange
cables smooth and dark like carbon fiber. In order to continue
it is necessary to cut them off. When the characters do that, read
them the following description.
The hatch opens completely, revealing a short corridor illuminated
by flickering emergency lights. The strange cables that blocked the
entrance seem to continue along the walls, mingling with the pipes
and cables winding between the cladding panels. From the stumps
you cut, a viscous, transparent liquid drips and accumulates on
the floor forming small slippery puddles.
About ten meters ahead the corridor widens and ends in front of
the sliding doors of a large elevator.
If examined using a multiscanner or bioscanner and making
a DC 19 INT (Science) check, the liquid escaping from the cables
turns out to be rich in organic compounds. The elevator seems
to work, but the only selectable destination is the cargo bay.
As they go down in the elevator, the characters receive from
Serendipity a new communication, even weaker and more
disturbed than before. Unfortunately, the engine damage is
serious and the diagnostics detected malfunctions in the on-board
computer as well. The following spare parts are required.
• 1 flux collimator of more or less adequate size for the
Serendipity starship class.
• 2 neural jellies for the on-board computer’s core.
After that, the elevator reaches its destination, stopping with
a series of metallic screeches. The sliding doors open onto a short
corridor ending with a large hatch that, when the characters
approach, begins to open.
A dull scraping noise accompanies the unsteady opening of the
cargo bay’s massive entrance door. In the slowly widening crack
between the heavy moving doors, lights and vapors gather in a
changing and flashing fog. A few seconds later your eyes get used
to it and your breath stops in your throat, because nothing could
have prepared you for what you are observing.
Similar to the hyphae of a huge fungus, thick whitish filaments
spread along the metal surfaces of the short corridor beyond the
door, while others cross it diagonally, intersecting to form a sparse
intertwining. Intermittent red reflections illuminate the opalescent
surface of the huge fungus, coming from a group of fist-sized
bioluminescent beetle-like creatures sucking on the milky mucus
secreted by the filaments.
Beyond the fungal web, the cargo bay opens up.
 Hostile Encounter: Lymphatic jelly (1). As the characters enter
the corridor heading towards the fungal hyphae, a dripping
noise makes them turn towards the elevator. A shapeless
mass of semitransparent jelly is piling up on the ground and,
unexpectedly, begins to move towards them.
Danger: Tangle of fungal filaments. The corridor infested with
fungal filaments is difficult terrain. Additionally, a creature
entering for the first time on their turn or starting their turn
in the area occupied by the filaments must succeed on
a DC 15 DEX (Reflex) saving throw or be restrained by them.
A creature restrained in this way can use its action to break
free, making a DC 15 STR (Might) check. A 1-meter-wide cube
of fungal filaments is destroyed by dealing 6 kinetic or 3 energy
or biotic damage to it.
AREA 5: CARGO BAY
Once you leave the corridor, your gaze still follows the strange
alien hyphae that, losing their support points on the walls, fan out,
curling outwards. A swarm of thin bluish tentacles emerges from
the crinkly ends of the mushroom, slowly swaying in mid-air.
All around you, as far as the eye can see, a kaleidoscopic and
alien biome thrives in every nook and cranny. If you did not have
the mapping of the ship you would not be able to imagine the real
dimensions of the space surrounding you.
A few dozen meters away, a chaotic cluster of sprawling roots
squeeze to the point of deforming them some enormous square
blocks of metal that you can hardly recognize as containers. The
ceiling, which should be about thirty meters higher, is completely
hidden by a dome of vegetation grown around the metal frames
making up the load-bearing structure of the Perseus III.
From the floor, covered by a thin but dense layer of fog, veils of
iridescent vegetation emerge sporadically. Swarms of tiny flying
creatures gather around them, drawing shapes of a shocking
familiarity in the air.
According to the layout of the Perseus III in possession of
the characters, the cargo bay should have a width of about 150
meters and a height of about 30. Access to the foredecks should
be exactly on the other side of the cargo hold from their current
position. To reach it they will then have to cross the cargo bay.
Entering the alien ecosystem, the characters will encounter
some very different “sub-biomes”, described in the following
paragraphs. The order in which they will meet them is entirely up
to you, but after crossing all three, the characters will finally find
themselves on the other side of the cargo bay, near the access to
the foredecks (see below).
In describing the alien and bizarre scenarios present inside
the cargo bay, try to convey to the players a sense of wonder and
bewilderment at the oddities that their characters will face, as if
they were struggling with daydreaming.
INTERACTING WITH THE BIOME
As they explore the alien biome, characters can interact with it in various
ways. You can manage these interactions however you like, but here are
some general guidelines that may be useful:
• You can ask for a PER (Survival) group check to determine if
characters can move smoothly through the rugged environments
of the biome.
• Similarly, STR (Athletics or Climbing) checks can be useful if the
characters decide to explore more inaccessible areas, such as
jumping obstacles or climbing tall vegetation.
• From time to time, you can ask characters to make PER (Alertness)
checks, whether or not there are actual dangers lurking, so as to
give them the sense of being immersed in an unpredictable and risky
environment.
• Finally, when characters stop to study and analyze the biome using
their equipment (such as multiscanner and bioscanner), ask them
to make INT (Science or Nature) checks and try to provide them
with information consistent with the background of the adventure,
emphasizing the exceptionality and abnormality of the phenomenon
they are observing.
Note: During their exploration of the biome, the PCs are secretly
observed by mimic predators, cunning and stealthy beasts capable of
mimicking the sounds of their prey. They learn to reproduce the PCs’
voices and will ambush them in the crew quarters (see below).
CHAPTER 3: A VOICE IN THE VOID 65
 SUB-BIOME 1
In this area, the humidity thickens significantly, rising from the floor
to form a thin fog all around. The vegetation seems to feed on it.
Large vaguely spheroidal luminescent bulbs are covered with
strange root systems that intertwine to form curious geometric
patterns. From these, a series of outgrowths covered with fluff
stretches upwards, emitting a vibration perceptible even through
your suits. This vibration periodically intensifies, suddenly
blossoming in sudden bursts of electricity, like ephemeral flowers
of purplish plasma.
These strange spheres seem to spread all around, connected to
each other by intertwined axons, as if to form a single large plant.

Hostile Encounter: Humming infester (4). A handful of meters

above the ground, several silhouettes are firmly clinging to
the tallest and brightest spheres of the plant. Each of these
creatures pulls back long, drooling appendages, before turning
their eyeless gaze towards you.

Danger: Electric shocks. At irregular intervals of about a minute,

sudden bursts of electricity are released in the humid air of this
area. When this occurs, nearby characters must make a DC 18
DEX (Reflex) saving throw or take 1d6 energy damage.

SUB-BIOME 2
You find yourself in an area dominated by a series of multicolored
stems a couple of meters high and by other strange “plants”
more similar to corals and sea anemones. The temperature is
considerably lower and all around reigns a penumbra illuminated
only by the tenuous bioluminescence of some clouds of
microscopic creatures floating in the air.
These swarms create shapes in the air that are too precise to
be random: first the outline of a small animal, then a mechanized
arm. Finally, a human torso suspended in midair, intent on
reaching out towards you... and then disappearing behind the
diamond-shaped pattern of a chromed mold.
A character with the Psionics skill can try to understand if there
is any psionic phenomenon taking place by making a DC 20 INT
(Psionics) check. If the check is successful, it reveals a subtle
psionic imprint that permeates the entire area. The swarms seem
to take definite shapes when they pass in the vicinity of nodes
where this imprint seems stronger. Being now aware of this, the
character can hypothesize that the psionic imprint is widespread,
more or less intensely, throughout the biome.
If they stop to examine the area, the characters can see the
presence of a varied fauna of small pseudo-arthropod creatures
that live among the vegetation.
Danger: Floating bulbs. Amid the bizarre flora of this area,
float in midair strange swollen bulbs, about the size of a large
pumpkin. Their purplish surface is studded with tiny sphincters
that occasionally release short puffs of a yellowish gas, pushing
the strange globes in seemingly random directions, like balloons
blown by the breeze.
If someone comes within a meter of one of these bulbs, it
bursts in a rain of a viscous and corrosive liquid. Anyone within
2 meters of an exploding bulb must make a DC 19 DEX (Reflex)
saving throw, taking 1d8 energy damage if they fail, or half that
damage if they succeed. In addition, anyone who fails the save
is smeared with sticky acid and takes 1d6 energy damage at the
start of each of their turns until they take an action to shake
the sludge off.

66 CHAPTER 3: A VOICE IN THE VOID

SUB-BIOME 3
The dampness of the floor gives way to a dense tangle of dark
gray roots, no thicker than a bundle of electrical cables. They
progressively grow, swelling up to resemble thick carbon ropes,
and then intertwine again giving rise to a series of enormous
columnar stems of a few meters in diameter, spaced enough from
each other to form vast clearings occupied by lower vegetation.
Halfway from the ceiling, trapped within these imposing plant
structures, you can see a series of rusty parallelepipeds, deformed
by time and by the grip of the plants that keep them suspended
about ten meters high. Higher still, the carbonaceous trunks begin
to branch out, once again taking root on the ceiling in a fan of
increasingly thinner cables.
Among this imposing gray forest, you can see shiny and
disturbing anthropomorphic forms. Like a river of oily masks,
featureless black faces slide into the carbon inlets of the great
trunks, appearing and disappearing as they emit a series of
incomprehensible whispers. In the spaces between one shaft and
the other, instead, stand various humanoid shapes, motionless like
graphite statues, frozen in the act of walking towards the center
of the clearings.
In the clearings that separate the large carbonaceous trees,
strange humanoid shapes are visible, they too with a fibrous
and dark surface.
If analyzed with a bioscanner by succeeding on a DC 25
INT (Science or Nature) check, they turn out to be a sort of
anthropomorphic “seeds” that seem to be generated from the
large trees by budding, and then move towards the center of the
clearings with movements so slow to be almost imperceptible.
In fact, in the center of a few clearings it is possible to observe
some “young” trees that at their base still retain the rudimentary
form of a kneeling humanoid.
Among the vegetation covering the surrounding area, roam
placid quadrupeds as tall as a human at the withers. Their
slender body resembles that of agile savanna herbivores,
but their appearance is closer to that of a flowering plant.
Encounter: Exploring this area, the characters may come
across strange creatures with a bizarre appearance. While
vaguely imitating a humanoid figure, these creatures are more
reminiscent of a cross between an insect, a fungus and a larva.
Their abdomen is swollen with purple sacs from which every
now and then they emit puffs of a bluish dust that settles on
the surrounding plants, perhaps spores or something similar.
The creatures seem to ignore the presence of the characters
and show no hostile attitude. However, if attacked or threatened
they defend themselves by releasing a cloud of opaque gas that
creates an obscured area within a 6 meters radius; the cloud
lingers for approximately 30 seconds and then dissipates.
FOREDECKS ACCESS
Once they reach the other side of the cargo bay, to continue
the characters have to look for the hatch giving access to the
foredecks.
The search is not difficult as the hatch is in the middle of the
cargo bay’s width, like the one from which the characters entered.
If you want, you can ask the characters to make some ability
checks to spice up the search.
Once they find it, read them the following description.
Embedded in the end of a short corridor of just a few meters,
the hatch seems completely inoperative. The heavy sliding doors,
rusted and deformed, lie in a semi-open position and appear
encrusted with a porous substance. A tangle of dried dendrites
and tendrils emerges from the fissure separating them.
While the characters are focused on examining the hatch, a
herd of small predatory creatures is hidden in the surrounding
vegetation, ready to ambush them.
Hostile Encounter: Pseudosaur (5). The characters can sense the
danger by making a DC 19 PER (Alertness) check. Anyone who
fails the check will be surprised during the first round of combat.
Once they overcome the encounter, the characters can return to
devote themselves to the hatch. They can try to forcibly unhinge it
by making a DC 22 STR (Might) check, or devise some other way
to open it.
THE AWAKENING
More or less at this point, the survivor’s awakening procedure
ends and, when he finally wakes up from the cryogenic sleep,
something in the biome “changes” immediately.
A shiver runs through the thin stems covering the floor on which
you place your feet. Not far away, what looks like a flock of
triangular butterflies paralyzes for a fraction of a second, falling
to the ground. There is a glitch of silence before his arrival... then
a screeching yelp swells up to become a sonorous gash of agony
that cuts through the ship like a roar of pain.
When it stops, what looked like a human face carved into the bark
of a large nearby tree dissolves into a writhing of meaningless scales.
Something in the biome seems to have changed, but it’s hard to
define what. Slowly, all the “mimic” features of the biome (such as
the faces in the trees and the swarms taking recognizable shapes)
begin to be reabsorbed.
If the psionic imprint pervading the biome has been previously
perceived (see “Sub-biome 2”), the character who sensed it
realizes a change in it too and its general weakening.
CHAPTER 3: A VOICE IN THE VOID 67

THE NIGHTMARE
From this point on, the environments the characters explore tend
to be darker and more disturbing. Instead of the sense of wonder
that characterizes the exploration of the cargo bay, here you
should try to convey to the players a sense of claustrophobia and
oppression, as if they were entering forbidden places, walking
back in time towards the mysterious events that led to the Perseus
III in its present state.
AREA 6: SERVICE DECK
Much of the walls in this area of the ship are covered in what
appears to be a smooth concretion of white pumice. You feel
like you are entering a cave, as the rounded masses expanding
around the corridors tighten all around you. In certain points, the
concretions become so bulky that they almost block the passage.
The air is full of a sort of dust shining like a myriad of small stars
within the beams of your flashlights. Amid the dust, you are sure
to see slight, microscopic movements, as if you were immersed in
a cloud of plankton. From the pores that surround you, from time
to time, brightly colored tiny tentacular mouths emerge and seem
to grab something in mid-air only to quickly withdraw.
This deck houses various utility, monitoring and maintenance
rooms. It is a bit like being in the basement of a large building,
where there are boilers, pipes, electric gauges and so on. Some
corridors lead to ladders that lead to the decks above.
While the characters explore this level of the spaceship, at the
moment you deem appropriate you can have the following hostile
encounter taking place.
Hostile Encounter: Arachnoid (2). In a niche between the
concretions, various pockets filled with greenish eggs surround
two large spider-like creatures intent on feeding on a prey. The
characters will easily notice the presence of the creatures even
before seeing them, due to the noises they produce, and so they
will be able to decide how to approach the situation.
6A: ARMORY
To access this area it is necessary to have a security staff access
badge. Alternatively, a DC 30 TEC (Computer) check allows the
characters to bypass the codes and open the door without having
the badge.
68 CHAPTER 3: A VOICE IN THE VOID
The door opens onto a large room occupied by a crammed series
of racks, shelves and lockers. Most of the armory appears to have
been spared from the more pervasive intrusion of the biome.
Only a halo of yellowish molds managed to penetrate through the
ventilation ducts, covering the walls and part of the furniture with
radial-shaped spots, reminiscent of an unusual field of sunflowers.
Everything has a rusty and crumbling appearance, especially
near the mold spots, but perhaps something could have been
spared from the unusual corrosion.
Searching in the armory: It is possible to search for something useful
inside the armory by making a PER (Inspection) check. The result of the
search depends on the outcome of the check, as indicated below.
Outcome Objects found
17+ 5 ENC energy cells
21+ LAM aiming laser: Small laser projector that can be mounted
on a ranged weapon and aligned with its firing trajectory. The
beam can be in the visible or infrared light spectrum. Using
a LAM increases by 1 the bonus on attack rolls obtained by
taking the Aim minor action. Applicable on kinetic and energy
weapons.
24+ 1 blaster handgun: 1d10 energy damage, ENC ammo (12
shots), short range, light (weight 2 kg).
27+ 2 smoke grenades: This pyrotechnic device emits a smoke
screen that produces an obscured area within a radius of 6
meters from the point of impact. The smoke dissipates after
10 rounds in the absence of wind, or in half that time in the
presence of a not insignificant wind.
6B: GALLEY
Huge metal cylinders about two meters wide and reaching the
ceiling occupy a large part of the room. Some of the cylinders
are open and reveal inside them a series of movable metal grids
supported by small mechanical arms. Cooling ducts run on the
ceiling and fill the spaces between the large cylindrical cold
rooms, giving you the impression of having ended up in the pale
guts of a colossal monster.
All around, shelves and work surfaces are covered with a
rippling and lush moss, which fades from emerald green to the
color of rust. Small oval and convex creatures with a long and flat
tail hide in the curled folds of the moss, like insects among the
petals of a rose garden.
6C: SYSTEMS DIAGNOSTICS ROOMS
The hollow surfaces of a large glass dodecahedron dominate the
center of the room. Around it, a series of walkways lead to several
side rooms occupied by various computerized workstations, each
equipped with a large curved holographic screen.
Everything is closely connected by a vortex of bioluminescent
webs departing from the central structure. Tiny drops of opalescent
liquid fall through the floor grids, after having condensed like
pearls on the woolly filaments radiating from the dodecahedron.
6D: HANGAR DOORS
Continuing towards the last part of the deck, the presence of the
biome becomes weaker, almost disappearing. The concretions
gradually give way to sporadic patches of lichen that form irregular
patterns. Then, the wide corridor widens into an area where large
metal crates, once secured to the walls, now lie disorderly on the
ground. Just beyond them, the corridor ends behind a large sealed
hatch that precludes access to the shuttles hangar. On the sides
of the door, four security automatons rest inside as many niches,
two on each side, as if they were ancient corpses mummified in
a cocoon of glass and metal.
The hangar doors are closed by a lock of the highest level
of security (to be able to open them, the lock must be disabled
directly from the command bridge).
Hostile encounter: Security automaton (1). While the characters
are examining the area, suddenly a dull hum spreads through the
air. Immediately afterwards, a series of red lights lights up inside
one of the niches and the security automaton it holds activates.
AREA 7: SCIENTIFIC DECK
Around the security lights grow asymmetrical red orchids with
petals as sharp as pins. Below them, flaccid translucent sacs
crawl along the wall. They whip each other by shaking long,
fiber-like appendages that snap on the transparent surfaces of
their bodies, stirring the yellowish liquid that fills them. A humid
stillness reigns all around. Iridescent puddles, rippled sludges and
amoebic vesicles dot a space that rarely escapes darkness.
The presence of the biome on this bridge is pervasive but
takes on a more primitive form. These are mainly molds, lichens
and strange plants mostly devoid of pigments apart from a few
gaudy inflorescences that dot the otherwise monochromatic
environment.
7A: MAIN INFIRMARY
A few strips of stale mucus, about fifty centimeters wide, trace
a path under a sign. The red writing under the filthy encrustations
that crown it is barely legible: Infirmary.
The traces of mucus are lost among the thin opaque cilia coming
out from under about twenty medical beds. The long tentacles,
devoid of suction cups and smooth as plastic tubes, twist and
intertwine listlessly between one bed and another. The cilia come
out of pale, flaccid creatures that seem to have made the beds
in the infirmary their home.
The entire floor of the infirmary is covered with an inch of
multicolored reflective sewage, similar to that of the puddles that
dot the corridors.
The infirmary contains about twenty medical beds equipped
with diagnostic and monitoring tools that are now completely
inoperative. Shelves and wall cabinets are mostly invaded by
lichens and sparse milky vegetation. However, at the back of the
room a wall-mounted refrigerator appears to be still in operation.
Refrigerant container: Opening the refrigerant container requires the
scientific staff access badge. Alternatively, it can be opened using an
intrusion kit by succeeding on a DC 19 TEC (Computer) or a DC 21 TEC
(Tampering) check. Inside the container there are the following objects:
• Spray skin: A spray bottle containing synthetic skin cells and
coagulants. Sprinkled on the wounds of a bleeding character, it stops
the bleeding neutralizing that condition.
• Painkillers: Taking a dose of painkillers allows you to ignore the
negative effects of mild physical trauma for 2d3 + 2 hours (see
“Traumas” in Chapter 1).
• Medikit: Using a medikit on a creature requires an action. The
creature instantly recovers 1d6 + 1 vitality points.
Surgery: This is a room that had to be perfectly equipped
to carry out any type of surgical operation. Medical technology
probably had to be extremely advanced, superior to what is
commonly seen in the Outskirts, but now everything is destroyed.
A pair of medi-bots lie rusty on the ground with their mechanical
limbs folded haphazardly upwards, like the carcasses of large
dead crabs on the shore.
Medical Office: This room is dominated by a large desk, white
at its sides and black on the top. The walls are filled with shelves
and file binder slipcases. The characters can even see an old-
fashioned bookcase, with printed books and all – stuff from the
old days, very old days.
On the desk, alongside some other stationery items, there
is a scientific staff access badge.
Scientific staff access badge: Small electronic badge containing
the identification codes of the scientific personnel of the Perseus
III. It automatically overcomes all the access blocks that require
these codes, simply by putting it close to the affected devices.
7B: HYDROPONIC INSTALLATION
A huge hydroponic pergola looms over you. Under the geometric-
shaped cultivation plates, an inextricable web of pale vegetation
entangles in a skein of rhizomes, roots, tubers and filaments.
Fractals of shoots explode in midair in clusters of dense white
agglomerates.
Entire sections of the greenhouse have collapsed and, among
the dense vegetation covering the walls and ceiling, you can see a
cascade of shattered glass cylinders. They are the burn out lamps
that once supported the vegetation, which now seems to have
found other sources of nourishment.
Hostile Encounter: Tentacular plant (1). If the characters enter
the hydroponic installation room, when they are far enough from
the exit, the floor’s grates will begin to rise irregularly while a
series of large plant tentacles covered with spikes come out and
attack the characters, trying to grab them.
CHAPTER 3: A VOICE IN THE VOID 69
 7C: SCIENCE LABS
To access this area, it is necessary to have a scientific staff access
badge. However, the doors of the laboratories are still blocked
by an access protocol restricted to genetic recognition. If the PCs
approach with the science staff badge, the door does not open,
returning a “genetic identification failed” message.
After the characters have interacted with Urania (see Area 8),
she herself will direct them to the science laboratories, bypassing
the genetic identification protocol for them and thus opening the
doors to this area for the characters.
Alternatively, a character with the Computer skill could attempt
to bypass the genetic identification protocol by using an intrusion
kit and succeeding on a DC 30 TEC (Computer) check.
When you open the sealed door of the laboratories, the boots of
your suits are stained with a thick liquid with golden reflections,
similar to the one you have encountered previously, but denser
and less colorful.
Under the beams of your flashlights, a slimy multitude of tiny
amoeboid creatures withdraw. Some are round and flattened like
upside down metal trays, barely hiding the thousands of villi on
which they move. Others are elongated and sharp like scalpels,
covered with tiny hooks.
Over one of the numerous tables that housed the research
stations of the laboratories, a dozen cylindrical and striated
worms slip into the pores of a sponge grown up to absorb some
microscopes and other scientific instruments. The porifera
contracts in an effort to welcome them all, screeching.
If the characters enter the labs without Urania’s help, she will
reveal herself to them instantly, following the same approach
described in Area 8B (obviously leaving out the part where she
directs the characters to the laboratories).
If, on the other hand, the characters enter the science labs
with her help, Urania addresses them again as soon as they cross
the threshold.
Interacting with Urania: Urania’s synthetic voice welcomes the
characters as soon as they enter the Laboratories.
“Welcome, intruders. Here it all started. Here I think you will find the
answers you are looking for. However my functions are limited, I will not be
able to help you much. I hope this is enough.”
The instant the AI stops talking, a low hum spreads throughout the
room and the screens of a few scientific workstation turn on flickering,
pouring a soft bluish light all around. The characters can now examine
the science terminals (see below).
If the characters want to interact further with Urania, both before and
after examining the terminals, refer to the information already obtainable in
the interaction described in Area 8B that is not already in their possession.
If the characters ask Urania if there are still members of the original
Perseus III crew aboard, she states that after the evacuation only the
captain, the first mate, the chief engineer and the chief science officer
remained on board. However, having no access to the upper deck
systems (where the four retreated), even Urania cannot know what their
current condition is.
70 CHAPTER 3: A VOICE IN THE VOID
Examining the science terminals: The terminals in the science lab
contain a long series of research logs from which characters can draw
the following information.
• Scientific samples’ containment system malfunction (see “The
incident” in the Preamble).
• Evolution of the biome and discovery of the micro-symbiote (see “The
incident” and “A problematic awakening” in the Preamble).
• Many research logs contain the experiments and studies performed
on the biome by the scientists of the Perseus III. The information
does not add much to what the characters may have already
discovered by analyzing the biome themselves, apart from the
existence of the alien micro-symbiote, which nature remains totally
mysterious.
• The search logs stop at the time of the evacuation order. However,
there are a number of protected files that appear to have later
dates. These files can be accessed by succeeding on a DC 21 TEC
(Computer) check.
Inside are a number of further observations on the biome and reports
on its evolution over decades and decades, signed “Dr. Van Veld “.
7D: SCIENTIFIC SAMPLE STORAGE
Access is possible only through the laboratories.
Scattered bones, scales and crystalline exoskeletons rest on the
hall’s polished steel floor. They must have been distorted by some
special force, because scanners cannot identify their origins and
nature, either by their shape or by their composition.
Hundreds of display cases of different shapes and sizes are
organized in parallel lines running along the entire length of the
storage area. The place conveys a sense of emptiness and, in a
certain sense, of death.
If they search through the storage containers, also read the
characters the following description.
Only two half-open tanks still house something moving. A liquid
agglomerate responds to your movements from within a glass
envelope. There is no data on the sample. It doesn’t seem to be
afraid of the torchlight.
You are now turning back when you notice a slight
bioluminescence coming from those same tanks.
Hostile Encounter: Pale slime (2). Before the characters can
leave the storage area, from the two tanks emerge gelatinous
masses that from being transparent, take on a milky color. When
they touch the metal grates of the floor, whitish smoke begins to
rise in the air, accompanied by a high-pitched hiss. The strange
amoeboid creatures sway towards the characters.
If the characters try to close the doors of the storage area to
imprison the amoebas, they will still be able to escape through
the smallest cracks.
AREA 8: CREW DECK
Dark purple bubbles float around you like a herd of small jellyfish.
It is impossible not to hit them. Upon contact with your suits they
lose their integrity and crumble into a fine dust that falls inert to
the ground. Your footsteps echo in the corridor, bouncing among
the tables in the large refectory and the doors of the numerous
cabins on the crew deck. Your passage leaves faint footprints on
the veil of vermilion dust.
Hostile Encounter: Mimic Predator (2). As they step onto the
crew deck, the characters clearly hear someone desperately
asking for help. The voice echoes in the corridors and seems to
come from the refectory area. However, once they arrive there
doesn’t seem to be anyone.
Characters who pass a DC 23 PER (Alertness) check manage
to notice the presence of the two mimic predators hidden among
the refectory tables just in time, avoiding being surprised at the
start of the combat. Those who fail the check will be surprised.
8A: CREW QUARTERS
The crew cabins look like the battleground of the greatest pillow
fight in history. Pillows and sheets are scattered everywhere.
Strange pale and discontinuous lights emerge from these white
clusters like electric inflorescences from hairless albino cacti.
You even seem to hear the moans of someone buried under an
avalanche of pillows.
As the torches move by, what you thought to be feathers
escaped from the padding turn out to be a peaceful swarm of
fluffy starry-bodied creatures. They hover in the air gliding over the
short fibrous appendages radiating from a small chitinous center.
They move from mattress to mattress, sometimes landing on the
bioluminescent flowers that grow above them. And they look at
you, at a safe distance, with the little black eyes that make up the
bulk of their body weight.
Searching in the crew cabins: It is possible to search for something useful
inside the crew cabins by making a PER (Inspection) check. The result of
the search depends on the outcome of the check, as indicated below.
Outcome Objects found
14+ Among the several personal effects scattered in the various
cabins, there are other photos of the crew, some small
paintings still in good condition, various Perseus III uniforms
and some datapads still usable.
17+ Tech staff access badge
20+ Security and Scientific staff access badges
23+ A bionic arm is kept inside a locker. It seems in good condition.
From the size it seems to have belonged to a kergan.
Examining the crew’s personal logs: The terminals and datapads of the
crew deck contain the following information:
• Through the messages found, you can tell the players the story of
the Perseus III’s journey up to the general evacuation order given by
the captain. However, don’t give specific or technical details, but try
to leave the impression that the characters are reading simple notes
and personal diaries.
• Almost all the logs end with goodbye messages left just before the
evacuation. If you want, you can mention a few examples to the
players to give them the sense of loss, uncertainty and fear felt
by the unfortunate who were preparing to abandon the Perseus III
towards an unknown destiny.
Tech staff access badge: Contains the identification codes of
the Perseus III technical personnel.
Scientific staff access badge: Contains the identification
codes of the Perseus III scientific personnel.
Security staff access badge: Contains the identification codes
of the Perseus III security personnel.
8B: CREW CRYOCAPSULES
At the center of a large circular room stands the ship’s cryostasis
system. Dozens and dozens of cryopods arranged in a spiral
culminate in a bundle of power cables and cooling tubes that
is lost in the darkness of a hole in the center of the dome that
overlooks it. The pods have soft and round lines, different from the
squared coffins you are used to in the Outskirts. They look more
like the fruit of an artist rather than the product of the cynical
aerospace engineering you know.
A few moments after the characters have entered this room, a
synthetic female voice spreads through the room, pronouncing
two simple words.
<“Hello, intruders”>
Interacting with Urania: The synthetic voice presents herself as Urania,
the artificial intelligence of the Perseus III. The AI begins by explaining to
the characters that she has been keeping an eye on them for some time
but that she has waited until now to contact them because first she wanted
to be sure that they did not have bad intentions.
The AI seems to be affected by a series of bugs and malfunctions that
limit her interaction capabilities. However, by asking the right questions,
the characters can obtain the following information from Urania:
• By succeeding on a DC 18 PER (Insight) check, the characters
can realize that Urania suffers from the artificial equivalent of a
schizophrenic split personality disorder.
• Urania continues to refer to the biome’s presence as part of her crew.
Despite being aware of its nature, she doesn’t seem to be able to see
it as something foreign.
• The upper decks and the Perseus III Hangar are completely isolated
by an emergency protocol set by the Captain, and not even Urania has
access to their internal systems.
• Urania can tell the characters about the origin of the PERSEUS Project
and the history of Perseus III, from the glorious departure at the time
of the Union to the beginning of her return journey (see “The Perseus
III mission” in the Preamble).
On subsequent events, the AI becomes very vague and seems unable
to fully articulate the information, simply hinting at an incident, the
evacuation order and the setting of the security block that isolates part
of the ship and limits her functions.
• If the characters ask Urania about the spare parts needed to repair
the Serendipity, she claims she has spare neural jellies inside her
mainframe, while the flux collimator of a Perseus III shuttle should be
sufficient for their needs.
• To any other request, the AI replies “Sorry, limited memory functions,
contradictory data”.
Regardless of the information obtained by the characters, at the end
of the interaction Urania asks them to visit the Laboratories located on
the Scientific Deck, claiming that there they will be able to find all the
information they need.
To avoid unnecessary risks, Urania unlocks access to a conduit that
cross the ship’s structure and act as a “shortcut” to returning to the
Scientific Deck without having to go through corridors and stairs again.
The characters will emerge in the main corridor of the deck, coming out
of a panel on the ceiling.
CHAPTER 3: A VOICE IN THE VOID 71
 A LURKING HORROR
Once the characters have fully or largely explored the foredecks,
or when you believe they have obtained all the information
necessary to continue the adventure, you can make happen this
scene, that closes Act 2.
As soon as the characters are in the central corridor of the deck
they are in (regardless of which deck it is), interrupt them and
read them the following description.
Suddenly, interference and buzzing sounds jam your comlinks.
Then, a distorted voice emerges from the chaos of noises and
crackles. It is clearly the voice of a human.
“Tzzz… do you receive me?… tzzz… you’re in danger!
Irresponsible!… tzzzz… get out from there… tzzzz… use
maintenance conduits… tzzzz access from the central corridor
of the deck! Hurry up!… tzzzz… guide you to the upper decks…
tzzzz… hurry!”
The last words are lost in the increasingly strong interference…
but now it is not just your comlinks.
At first the air is filled with a sharp hum, like the crackle of
thousands of dry leaves trampled at the same time. Then it
appears, like a crack in reality... like a nightmare out of a dreamlike
dark dimension. A few meters from you, a faceless figure looks at
you, unnaturally twisting its head and curving a gaunt and slender
torso. Two long arms sway limply, starting from narrow shoulders
at a height of three meters and reaching the ground with slender
pointed fingers.
The hideous silhouette is indefinite, blurred, as if it were
constantly changing. All around it, reality fades into a crackling
bubbling of fumes and floating particles that swallow the light
of your torches like a puddle of oil.
Hostile Encounter: Nightmare. The characters shouldn’t try
to face the Nightmare right now, but if they try, they will easily
realize that the damage caused by their attacks has little effect.
The frightening creature seems to regenerate continuously.
72 CHAPTER 3: A VOICE IN THE VOID
In the opposite direction from where the Nightmare is located,
a side panel unlocks producing a metallic sound and revealing a
maintenance duct, but in the meantime the nightmare approaches
and with it the cloud of dust surrounding it.
Escaping the Nightmare: To reach the opening of the maintenance duct
and thus be able to escape, the characters must make a series of DC 18
ROB (Athletics) or DEX (Acrobatics) checks, to move as fast as possible
and keep out of the cloud surrounding the approaching nightmare.
• Whenever a character fails one of these checks, he or she is reached
by the Nightmare’s cloud and suffers 1d6 kinetic damage.
• After three successes (not necessarily consecutive), a character
reaches the maintenance duct and slips into it.
If a character succumbs during the escape (dropping to 0 vitality
points), another character can carry them, but doing so implies
disadvantage on his or her checks. If a second character helps the first
one to drag the unconscious partner, both can make checks without
disadvantage but the DC will be 20 instead of 18.
Once all the characters have reached the maintenance duct they
will be able to close the panel behind them, finally getting away
from the threat of the Nightmare.
Once they have escaped the danger, the characters are again
contacted by the mysterious voice through comlinks. Although
still distorted, this time the communication is understandable
and the stranger introduces himself as Dr. Tamìr Van Veld, chief
science officer of the Perseus III.
Shutting down any questions, the science officer cuts short by
reminding the characters of the enormous danger they run as long
as they remain in that area of the ship and proposes to guide them
through the maintenance conduits to the upper decks, where they
will be safe and where he will be happy to meet them in person.
To do this, Van Veld will momentarily open the safety hatches
that would otherwise block their way.
At this point, go to the Third Act.
THIRD ACT
During the third and final act of the adventure, the characters will
have the opportunity to reveal the missing pieces of the Perseus
III’s history, discovering the implications of the events that led to
its current situation.
GHOSTS FROM THE PAST
Moving through the narrow conduits of the Perseus III proves to
be longer and more strenuous than expected: at the end of the
path the characters must succeed on a DC 19 STR (Stamina) check
or suffer a level of exhaustion.
Eventually, thanks to Van Veld’s directions, the characters
leave the ducts and find themselves on the Bridge.
AREA 9: THE BRIDGE
The Bridge is neat and clean; there are no signs of the bizarre life
forms you have encountered so far, much less of the Nightmare.
Holographic monitors sculpt every security breach and failing
system of the ship in the air. Before you can make the tour, your
attention is captured by a huge holographic projection in the
center of the navigation dashboard, the only one in disorder.
Above a seething spiral of nanoprojectors, a kaleidoscope of
luminous dots depicts a large portion of the Orion Arm. Stars
known but associated with different or mangled names are mixed
with entire sidereal regions that are completely unexplored in
your maps. What has always been no man’s sky for you is clearly
represented as a network of sectors connected under a single
great aegis: Systems Union.
The characters find themselves in front of a map of the entire
territory that once belonged to the Union. Wait a few moments to
let the players understand the importance that discovery could
have for their original employment. Then interrupt the characters
by reading them the following description.
A few meters away from you, pale and thin, a grizzled human with
an olive complexion observes you with exhausted curiosity. His
clear, sunken eyes move rapidly, browsing your suits in search of
a familiar sign. Small wrinkles at the edge of his eyes betray his
disappointment. In an outdated jargon he asks you who you are,
before abandoning himself to a tearless weeping.
Maintaining the rigor and demeanor befitting a superior
officer, Dr. Van Veld invites the characters into a small side room,
dominated by a long table surrounded by comfortable chairs.
Interacting with Van Veld: First of all, Van Veld asks the characters how
they found the Perseus III and how they managed to penetrate it. Then
he will calmly answer the characters’ questions.
Van Veld can briefly narrate the events concerning the development
of the biome and especially what happened after the evacuation order
(see “A problematic awakening” and “The long wait” in the Preamble).
However, when questioned about the fate of the other officers remaining
on the Perseus III, Van Veld is clearly saddened but his words about it
remain vague: “One day, I woke up, they didn’t. From that moment on
I was alone ... I have been alone for so long.”
Bringing the conversation back to a topic he deems most pressing, Van
Veld states that the alien biome is an unimaginable danger and a deadly
threat to all life forms it comes into contact with. He then proposes to the
characters to destroy the wreck and with it the biome inside, activating
the self-destruction procedure.
If the characters ask him why he hasn’t already done so, the man replies
that the shuttle could not have taken him very far and that he preferred
to stay and watch over the wreck, waiting for someone to finally arrive.
In any case, the only way to leave the Perseus III is to use the shuttle
kept in the shuttle’s hangar. To reach it, it is necessary to cancel the
emergency block set by the captain, thus ending the isolation of the upper
decks and the hangar itself. But such a procedure can only be performed
inside the Perseus III mainframe, to access which the captain and first
mate security codes are required. From the mainframe it is also possible
to activate the self-destruction procedure.
Van Veld concludes the conversation by giving the characters an
officers access badge and asking them to go down to the officers’ deck,
retrieve the security codes and do what is necessary to end this situation.
Whether they choose to destroy the Perseus III or not, he will accept their
decision, saying that he’s too old and that he only wishes to end his days
away from that damned ship.
Officers access badge: It contains the identification codes of
the Perseus III’s officer corps. It automatically overcomes all
the access blocks that require these codes, simply by putting it
closer to the affected devices.
CHAPTER 3: A VOICE IN THE VOID 73
 AREA 10: OFFICERS DECK
To access this area, an officers access badge is required.
Entering the officers deck, you have the feeling of crossing the
threshold of another era. Originally, the environment probably
wasn’t very different from the crew deck, but the absence of the
biome creates a huge contrast in your eyes.
Here everything is tidy and clean, as if you were at the time
when the crew still animated the corridors and halls of the
Perseus III. Compared to the many crew cabins, the officers’ deck
offered its residents personal accommodations larger and more
comfortable, but all in all equally sober and spartan.
Around the large common area you can see a total of fourteen
doors. The large airtight door at the end of the central corridor
leads to the officers’ cryopods. Immediately on the right, a sliding
door is highlighted by a red stripe and surmounted by the words
“secondary infirmary”. The other twelve doors lead to the officers’
personal quarters.
Among these, you can easily recognize those that belonged
to the four senior officers: the captain, the first mate, the chief
engineer and the chief science officer.
10A: SECONDARY INFIRMARY
The secondary infirmary is a small but well-stocked and
perfectly ordered space. On the right side of the room runs a
convex worktop of shiny rubber, on which surgical materials are
meticulously placed alongside bandages yellowed by time.
From the left wall protrudes instead an ark of shiny white
plastic, which houses an ergonomic cot covered with black
leatherette, large enough to accommodate a humanoid individual
of any size. Above it is placed a vault of spherical lights, tentacular
probes and slender robotic arms capable of autonomously
operating most traumas.
The infirmary houses a functioning “Autodoc”, capable of
healing the non-permanent effects of any type of physical trauma
in about 15 minutes of surgery.
Searching in the secondary infirmary: It is possible to search for
something useful inside the infirmary by making a PER (Inspection) check.
The result of the search depends on the outcome of the check,
as indicated below.
Outcome Objects found
17+ Antitoxin: Ingesting a dose of antitoxin grants advantage on
saving throws against poisons for 1 hour.
21+ Enhanced Medkit: Using an enhanced medkit requires an
action. The creature the medkit is used on instantly recovers
2d6 + 2 vitality points but must make a DC 14 STR (Stamina)
save or be stunned until the start of its next turn.
26+ Nano-antibodies: Rare nanotechnological drug administered
by injection (hypojet). Taking a dose of it neutralizes any
disease or poison in the body and removes the sickened and
paralyzed conditions.
74 CHAPTER 3: A VOICE IN THE VOID
10B: OFFICERS CRYOPODS
Twelve cryopods are arranged in a semicircle following the
curvature of the back wall of the room, arranged in three groups of
four. The central group seems to be the only one still in operation,
although one of the pods is open and empty. The other three,
closed, are topped by a small holographic projection, each of
which displays a different image and header:
- Captain, Eles Vir Sarel, Draalani, Gender neutral -
- First Mate, Nelaris Galorian, Valkarian, Female -
- Chief Engineer, Raeel Vas Nehema, Navarian, Male -
All, however, have the same status: DECEASED. Were it not
for this detail, the senior officers of the Perseus III would seem
peacefully asleep in a restful slumber. Each with their hands folded
on their chest and serene faces, almost with the trace of a smile.
The characters can initiate the opening procedure of the
cryopods containing the three senior officers bodies. Since the
occupants have passed away, the process is faster than it normally
would be, but even so the pods take about five minutes to open.
Analyzing the senior officers’ corpses: A character with the Medicine
skill can examine the bodies of the three dead officers by making an INT
(Medicine) check on them. The information obtained depends on the
outcome of the check, as indicated below.
Outcome Obtained information
15+ The three corpses were preserved in a cryogenic state so they
did not deteriorate. However, the causes of death do not seem
to be related to problems with the hibernation procedure.
Surely the three did not die while in cryostasis.
18+ A close examination of the bodies reveals signs of internal
injuries. In all three cases, it appears to be a violent death.
21+ In detail: the captain has a crushed lung and several broken
ribs, one of which pierced his heart, the first mate has a
broken neck, while the chief engineer shows signs of a terrible
head injury.
24+ The contusions and external ecchymosis visible on the three
bodies are not attributable to the use of weapons or blunt
objects. Despite the evident force impressed, the traumas
seem to have been inflicted with bare hands.
Senior officers personal badges: Pinned to the chest of each
of the three dead senior officers is their respective personal
access badge. Each of them counts as an officers access badge,
but in addition it opens the personal quarters of the superior
officer to whom it belongs.
10C: OFFICERS’ QUARTERS
The characters can explore the officers’ quarters. However, the
four senior officers’ quarters are the only ones to contain anything
of interest to the adventure.
Captain’s quarters: To access this area the characters need the
captain’s personal badge (see Area 10B).
On the captain’s desk, next to a block of curled and yellowed
papers, lie a series of metal trinkets slightly larger than a
fingernail, some with geometric shapes, others reminiscent of
unusual writings. One in particular, with two corrugated metal
embroideries similar to broken chains, says the motto: “nec spes
nec metu”. The long needles on their backs suggest that they are
the insignia of the black uniform hanging nearby. On the left hem
a faded writing is still visible: Cap. Eles Vir Sarel
Searching the captain’s quarters, a small safe with a genetic
recognition lock is easy to spot. The safe is closed and the
captain’s security codes are kept inside.
Captain security codes: This flat, approximately 10cm long
metal bar contains the Captain’s security codes of the Perseus
III, encoded directly into its molecular structure.
First mate’s quarters: To access this area, you need the first
officer’s personal badge (see Area 10B).
Searching the first officer’s quarters, a small safe with a genetic
lock is easy to spot. The safe is closed and the first officer’s
security codes are kept inside.
First mate security codes: This flat, approximately 10cm long
metal bar contains the first officer security codes of the Perseus
III, encoded directly into its molecular structure.
Chief science officer’s quarters: The chief scientific officer’s
lodgings are closed and to access them the characters would need
his personal badge, which is in his possession. Inside, however,
there is nothing crucial to the adventure.
Chief engineer’s quarters: To access this area the characters
need the personal badge of the chief engineer (see Area 10B).
The quarters of the chief engineer have a spartan and somewhat
messy appearance. On the desk lie various open electronic devices
and technical tools. A terminal screen is visible among them.
Once turned on, the chief engineer’s personal terminal turns
out to be connected to Urania, thanks to a “personal” link created
by the engineer himself to be able to converse with the AI outside
of professional duties.
“Oh… hello again, intruders, I haven’t detected this terminal for
a long time. How is chief engineer Vas Nehema doing?”
Urania suggests that the characters try to create a “bridge”
between that terminal and the officers’ deck’s systems, thus
allowing the AI to access the data they contain.
Reconnecting Urania to the Officers Deck Systems: Taking ten
minutes of work, one or more characters who collectively possess the
Mechatronics and Computer skills can forge a makeshift connection
between the chief engineer’s personal terminal and the officers deck
systems. If the characters do not have one or both of the necessary skills,
they can still make the connection following the instructions provided by
Urania, but in this case the work will take about thirty minutes.
Once the connection is established, Urania will again have access to the
officers deck systems and will be able to process the data and records
they contain, providing the characters with the following information:
• The data and recordings obtainable from the internal systems of the
officers deck allow the characters to reconstruct the story of the
four officers who remained on the Perseus III after the evacuation,
including the murders committed by Van Veld under the influence
of the biome (see “The long wait “In the Preamble).
Before the characters leave the officers deck, Urania suggests
a possible solution to them. Pointing out the inestimable scientific
importance of the biome, the AI argues that it is worth preserving.
However, if it remains confined to the interior of the Perseus III,
the biome would eventually deteriorate till completely dying.
Consequently, Urania proposes to the characters to change the
ship’s current course, directing it towards the surface of the planet
below. An emergency landing or crash are both valid options. The
biome would still survive, albeit in a different way.
To do this, it will be necessary to return Urania to its full
functionality by deactivating the emergency protocol and then
giving her the order to change route through the interface of the
Perseus III mainframe.
CHAPTER 3: A VOICE IN THE VOID 75
 PRESENT PROBLEMS
At this point, the characters should have all the fundamental
information to decide how to proceed, summarized below:
• The extraordinary alien biome that invaded the Perseus
III developed thanks to a micro-symbiote that manages to
dramatically increase the adaptability and evolution speed
of the species with which it enters into symbiosis. The origin
and nature of the micro-symbiote still remain unknown.
• The only survivor of the Perseus III, Dr. Van Veld, was
contaminated by the micro-symbiote, creating a close link
between it and the human, where the biome influences the
mind of the survivor, but also where the psyche of the latter
influences the biome in some way.
• Van Veld is also guilty of having killed the other three senior
officers remained with him on the Perseus III, but he appears
to have acted unconsciously, perhaps under the influence
of the biome.
• There may be some connection between Van Veld and the
creepy creature the characters encountered at the end of the
second act.
• The only way to return to the Serendipity is to use the Perseus
III’s shuttle, but in order to reach it, it is necessary to cancel
the emergency protocol that blocks the doors of the hangar
that contains it. To do this, the characters will need to log into
the Perseus III’s mainframe.
• In the meantime, the characters will have to decide whether
to follow Van Veld’s advice and destroy the wreck, go along
with Urania and divert it to the surface of the nearby planet,
or get away and leave it in its current state.
In any case, the characters are now in possession of the
necessary security codes to access the mainframe, but as soon
as they leave the officers deck, they find Dr. Van Veld waiting
for them. The man seems to expect a confrontation with the
characters on the death of his companions, aware of the fact that
they should have easily discovered the truth.
If the characters lie or omit that fact they know about the
murders, Van Veld switches to a colder and more annoying
attitude. Otherwise, the survivor is relieved:
“Now you know… now you’ve seen it too… at least now I know I’m
not crazy; I know it really happened. Do you understand now?
Do you understand why this ship has to be destroyed? It was it!
It was the damn symbiont to take my mates away from me!”
Once again, he points out to the characters the extreme danger
of the biome and the absolute necessity destroy it. He then asks
the PCs what their decision about him will be. Thus the characters
must choose what the survivor’s fate will be (see below).
THE SURVIVOR’S FATE
Possible choices regarding the survivor:
• Leave the survivor to the ship’s fate: The survivor pretends
to resign and accept the characters’ decision by retreating to
his quarters, but his intent is to escape from the Perseus III,
ambushing the characters and killing them at the doors of the
shuttle hangar.
• Saving the survivor: The survivor follows the characters,
whatever they decide to do with the ship, but his intent is to
betray them and kill them at the doors of the shuttle’s hangar,
and then escape the wreck alone.
• Killing the survivor: Knowing the ship better, the survivor
manages to escape by slipping into an emergency passage
and closing an airtight door behind him. His intent is to kill
the characters by ambushing them at the doors of the shuttle’s
hangar, and then escape the wreck alone.
76 CHAPTER 3: A VOICE IN THE VOID
AREA 11: MAINFRAME
To access this area it is necessary to have the security codes of the
captain and the first mate of the Perseus III. Once inserted into the
special slots in the center of the large access door, this will unlock
and slowly begin to open inwards. When the characters cross the
mainframe’s threshold, read them the following description.
You have to go through a veil of pink light before entering
the mainframe. It is a force field. The temperature inside is
significantly lower.
You find yourself admiring a large circular room, at least twenty
meters wide. A black ring made up of hexagonal cells runs along
the entire perimeter of the room, like a beehive of graphite prisms
that slide over each other, creating indecipherable patterns. Above
and below it, the ceiling and floor do not exist, replaced by two
liquid and chromed surfaces, periodically rippled by irregular
waves propagating from the center.
In the heart of the mainframe, two black rings border two calm
symmetrical ponds, one on the ceiling and one on the floor. An
intense light radiates from these silvery mirrors, illuminating three
shapes made up of the same chromed liquid surrounding you. The
kneeling figures of two young girls hang from the disk in the center
of the ceiling. They have their hands folded in front of their chests
and their hair floats open in the air, causing a kaleidoscope of
iridescent reflections. Under them, in the center of the disk on the
floor, an alien water lily with white petals stretches its tentacular
stamens upwards, to the point they barely touch the waving locks
of the two children.
The only thing that can distract you from the scene is the
emergence of a series of black, opaque, tile-like polygonal
surfaces just above the edge of the pond in front of you. They
trace a path to the heart of the mainframe’s interface.
Inside the mainframe, the characters can finally cancel the
emergency protocol set by the captain of the Perseus III, thus
unlocking the shuttle’s hangar doors and restoring Urania’s full
functionality. This also cancel the only barrier preventing the
biome from spreading to the upper decks and the rest of the
ship. Unfortunately, there is no way to prevent this.
After the unlocking, the characters can converse one last time
with Urania, before giving her the directive that will seal the fate
of the Perseus III (see below).
THE FATE OF THE PERSEUS III
Possible choices regarding the spaceship:
• Leaving the wreck in its current state: Characters can
escape leaving the Perseus III to its fate.
• Directing the wreck on the planet: Changing the course
of the Perseus III by directing it towards the surface of the
planet, allowing the biome to survive. If the characters opt
for an emergency landing, the biome will continue to develop
on the planet from its current state. If, on the other hand, they
choose to make the ship crash, the biome will restart from its
most primordial form, developing into new forms, but losing
everything that has evolved inside the wreck.
• Self-destruction’s activation: Starting the self-destruction
of the Perseus III (30-minute countdown), hoping to annihilate
the biome within it as well.
Before the conversation ends, Urania offers the characters what
she promised. A dark envelope emerges from the pond and floats
towards the characters: It contains three neural jellies from the
Perseus III’s mainframe.
Neural jellies (spare parts for the Serendipity): Needed to
repair the damage to the Serendipity’s onboard computer. See
“Epilogues,” below, for more information.
AREA 12: HANGAR DELLO SHUTTLE
Opening, the massive mechanical knockers get stuck several
times making you jump. When they finally disappear into the
cavities of the thick walls of the hangar, you find yourself in front
of the Perseus III’s shuttle. The ship, more or less half the size of
the Serendipity, is about fifteen meters from you. Behind it, the
huge external door of the hangar beyond which you know there
is salvation. You can almost enjoy the view as you take your first
steps inside the hangar, when a now familiar voice brings you
back to reality. Behind you, Van Veld stands still and impassive
pointing a heavy blaster pistol at you while wearing a Perseus III
environmental suit. Next to him, rigid and threatening, two security
automatons of the Perseus III seem ready to open fire on you at
the first order of the science officer.
Final encounter, Phase 1: Van Veld + security automatons (2).
During the fight, Van Veld remains near the entrance door to the
hangar, shielding himself with one of the two security automatons.
After a maximum of a couple of rounds, the fight is abruptly
interrupted by the appearance of the Nightmare. Read the players
the following description.
It happens with the naturalness of a fracture. As the cloud of the
Nightmare engulfs Van Veld, the sound of cartilage and bones
folding in on themselves merges with the creature’s voracious
crackle. The human’s scream echoes through the room one last
time, before rising again in a deafening screech that inflates the
Nightmare in an explosion of pain and fury.
The blue eyes of the science officer emerge asymmetrically in
the middle of the oblong and deformed face of the Nightmare. Its
neck bends unnaturally ninety degrees to one side. A copious gush
of black sludge pours across the floor.
Final encounter, Phase 2: The nightmare. The characters will
now have to deal with the Nightmare. But compared to their first
encounter with it, now their attacks seem to damage it.
The Nightmare was born from the influence on the biome
exerted by Van Veld’s tormented psyche. As a result, absorbing
and killing the unfortunate survivor broke the bond that
connected them, taking away from the Nightmare the source of
psychic energy that allowed it to regenerate constantly.
The characters can decide to fight against the nightmare until
they defeat it or try to take refuge inside the shuttle to get out
of the wreck as soon as possible. In any case, in order to leave the
Perseus III they will first have to open the large external hatch
of the hangar.
Opening the external door of the hangar: Inside a small control room
on the right side of the hangar, there are the controls of its large external
hatch. By succeeding on a DC 23 TEC (Astronautics) check, it is possible
to open the hatch despite the absence of a safety force field. The same
procedure can also be performed remotely from the shuttle’s control panel.
Activating the opening procedure causes the immediate closure of the
internal airtight door from which the characters entered and exposes the
entire hangar to the space vacuum, depressurizing it instantly.
The external door opens fully within three rounds.
General effects of vacuum exposure: The space vacuum is one of
the deadliest conditions to which a living organism can be exposed.
Any creature exposed to the void (and not protected by an exosuit with
life support) automatically begins to suffocate.
Also, at the start of each of its turns, the creature must make a
DC 19 STR (Stamina) saving throw. If it fails, it takes 14 (4d6) biotic
damage and 2 levels of exhaustion. If successful, it takes half damage
and suffers only 1 level of exhaustion. The damage and exhaustion
accumulated in this way cannot be healed until the creature returns to
an environment with normal atmospheric conditions.
The automatons and the Nightmare are immune to these effects.
Effects of the vacuum on the Nightmare: When the Nightmare is
exposed to the vacuum, the cloud that surrounds it is completely sucked
into the space together with the air from the hangar. Subsequently, at the
start of each turn of the Nightmare, roll a d6. On a roll of 4+, the cloud
reforms. Furthermore, as long as it remains exposed to vacuum, the
Nightmare loses its resistance to kinetic damage.
Once the external door of the hangar has opened completely,
the shuttle will be free to leave.
To initiate the shuttle’s engines, the characters have to use an
action and succeed on a DC 18 TEC (Astronautics) check. Piloting
the shuttle out of the hangar instead requires a DC 19 DEX
(Piloting) check. If the check fails, the shuttle collides with the
bulkheads of the hangar. In this case, all the characters inside it
who are not secured to the seats with safety straps must succeed
on a DC 18 DEX (Reflex) saving throw or be sent flying by the jolt,
taking 1d6 kinetic damage.
After the shuttle has left the hangar, go to the Epilogues.
Flux collimator (spare parts for the Serendipity): Once
they escape the Perseus III aboard the shuttle and reach
the Serendipity, players will be able to use a flux collimator
recovered from the shuttle itself to repair damage to their ship’s
thrusters. See “Epilogues,” below, for more information.
CHAPTER 3: A VOICE IN THE VOID 77
 EPILOGUES
After the characters leave the wreck, read them the following
description.
You watch the silver silhouette of the Perseus III get smaller and
smaller as you fly away aboard the shuttle. A quick automatic
scan detects the position of the Serendipity and a few moments
later you are following an interception route that will finally bring
you home.
You came out alive and you couldn’t be happier to put as much
space as possible between you and that ship, yet you struggle
to take your eyes off it, from that huge hull that has unexpectedly
swallowed you, making you live one of the most surprising and
frightening experiences of your life.
Based on the choice made by the characters regarding the fate
of the Perseus III, read them the epilogue A, B or C.
EPILOGUE A: LEFT TO ITS FATE
If the characters fled from the Perseus III and left it to its fate,
read them the following description.
The wreck disappears beyond the curved horizon of the huge rocky
globe, exiting your lives. Presumably, it will continue to orbit for
several decades, until its decaying trajectory will inevitably cause
it to crash on the planet’s surface. This is not your problem though.
EPILOGUE B: SELF-DESTRUCTION
If the characters have activated the Perseus III’s self-destruction
procedure, read them the following description.
Suddenly, a blinding light shines in the silence of the space void.
You cover your eyes with one hand so as not to be dazzled, but
a moment later the light has already disappeared and the Perseus
III no longer exists. In its place, a sphere of glowing gas and
debris expands in every direction. As the shuttle takes you beyond
the planet’s curved horizon, you silently watch the remains of
the wreck light up like torches as they fall through its turbulent
atmosphere.
Some fragments of the Perseus III will fall on the surface of the
planet, leading to more or less the same consequences as making
the ship crash, but without the characters being aware of this.
EPILOGUE C: NEW BEGINNING
If the characters changed Perseus III’s course directing it towards
the planet, read them the following description.
Just before the wreck disappears beyond the curved horizon of
the planet, a faint glow announces the ignition of the Perseus III’s
maneuvering thrusters. So the legendary ship is about to make its
last, final journey, but what lives inside it will survive, in one way
or another.
You cannot predict what the consequences of your decision will
be, but you are sure of one thing: life, after all, is always life and
no one should assume the right to decide what has the right to
survive and what has not.
If the characters opted for the crash, the biome will start from
scratch, colonizing the planet without the influence of the events
that took place aboard the wreck.
If, on the other hand, the characters have opted for the
emergency landing, the biome will continue to develop on the
planet starting from its current state, preserving the influences
matured over the centuries of evolution within the Perseus III.
In that case, part of Urania’s consciousness will also survive,
absorbed by the biome through her connections with it.
78 CHAPTER 3: A VOICE IN THE VOID
AN UNBREAKABLE BOND
This epilogue only occurs if at least one of the player characters
has been contaminated by the micro-symbiote.
In that case, whatever the final fate of the Perseus III was, any
character who carries the micro-symbiote within them will slowly
mature the certainty that the biome continues to live and that the
Perseus III was not the only place where it thrived.
You should give this information only to the players of the
contaminated characters. Then it will be up to them to decide
whether to share them with the others or not.
REPAIRING THE SERENDIPITY
Lastly, read the players this final paragraph. With it, the
adventure “A Voice in the Void” ends.
Once you finally reach the Serendipity, you immediately start
taking care of the repairs necessary to make it operational again.
The flux collimator on the Perseus III’s shuttle is certainly a little
under-powered for a ship the size of yours, but Mikaya is pretty
sure it will be more than enough to bring you back to civilization.
Meanwhile, the neural jellies donated by Urania are easily
installed and integrated into the hardware of the Serendipity’s
on-board computer, replacing the damaged ones and the oldest
of those still working.
However, the next time you restart the computer, you find
yourself observing an unusual series of messages that begin to
follow one another on the main panel’s screen.
Neural matrix initialization…
System scan, please wait…
Scan completed.
Network structure adaptation in progress, please wait…
…
…
Compatibility 99.97% improving…
Interface established.
Primary functions: operational.
…
…
Insert new main intellectual matrix name:
________________________
The characters will then have to choose and enter a name by
typing it on the main terminal or simply saying it to the onboard
computer. Once that’s done, continue reading the rest of the
description.
Please wait…
…
Restarting…
Once the unexpected automatic procedure is over, the on-
board computer switches off suddenly. The dashboard lights flash
irregularly for a few moments but then everything seems to return
to normal. The main screen glows in a soft blue color, rippled by
soft rhythmic shades.
Immediately afterwards, a voice never heard before, yet
somehow familiar, diffuses from the onboard speakers, uttering a
short sentence.
< “Hello, crew.” >
FIN
APPENDICES
 APPENDIX A: CHARACTERS’ SHEETS
This appendix includes the character sheet of each one of the premade characters presented in Chapter 2.
The header of the sheet shows the personal details of the character, on both sides: name, the character concept, class and level.
After that, the following guide will help you in reading the sheet, section by section.
PAGE 1
ABILITIES
The character’s ability scores are indicated in their respective
boxes. Under each ability, the associated skills and relative
bonuses are indicated.
HEALTH
The character’s [Max Vitality Points] and [Death Threshold] are
shown in the relevant boxes. The empty box adjacent to these two
is used to record lost or remaining vitality points (you choose).
The [Death Saves] checkboxes are used to keep track of
successful or failed death saving throws. Mark with a pencil
a [Successes] or [Failures] checkbox respectively for each
successful or failed death saving throw. Clear once the count
resets (because the character dies, stabilizes or receives healing).
The [Exhaustion Level] checkboxes are used to keep track of the
levels of exhaustion accumulated by the character. Again, mark
them with a pencil so you can erase them whenever the level of
exhaustion decreases or are eliminated.
In the lines below [Conditions and Traumas] you can write
down and keep track of the conditions and traumas afflicting
the character, indicating their effects if necessary.
STATS
This section displays the character’s speed [Speed], initiative roll
bonus [Initiative], Defense [Defense], and Armor Value [Armor
Value], each one in its specific box.
Next to each of these boxes you have a few lines where you
can indicate other relevant information, such as any other speeds
possessed by the character (swimming, climbing or flying speed),
a shield bonus to Defense, the type of armor worn and the armor
penalty it imposes, and so on.
ATTACKS
This box indicates the various weapons used by the character,
showing their name, the relative attack bonus and the damage
inflicted with a hit. For ranged weapons, range is also indicated.
TRAITS AND FEATURES
This box lists all of the character’s special abilities, such as species
traits, class features, and talents. If you want, you can also note
here any other information you consider important so that you
can always see them at a glance.
80 APPENDIX A: CHARACTERS’ SHEETS
PAGE 2
INVENTORY
This section lists all the items of equipment your character
is carrying, along with their weight. The total weight carried by
the character is indicated in the [Total Load] box. The character’s
[Carrying Capacity] is also shown, so that you can always
immediately establish whether they are overloaded or not.
FINANCES
This section indicates the credits possessed by the character, in
the [Credits] box, and other aspects of their financial status (such
as monthly charges and income). These aspects do not come into
play in this quickstarter.
APPEARANCE
The physical data of the characters (species, gender, height, and
so on) are shown here. You can also note here distinguishing
features, details and distinctive qualities of the character’s
physical appearance.
PERSONALITY
This section shows the salient characteristics of the character’s
personality: the disposition, peculiarities, ideals, bonds and flaws.
They are summarized in short and meaningful sentences, in order
to always have a quick reference on how to role-play the character.
BACKGROUND
This section indicates the character’s background and the
background trait (or traits) they possess. The languages known
by the character also appear. You can use the remaining lines
in the section to report brief biographic info, such as important
events in the character’s past history.
PSIONIC POWERS
The character’s [Max Psi Points] and [Psionic Limit] are shown in
the relevant boxes. The empty box adjacent to these two is used to
record spent or remaining psi points (you choose). The character’s
[Psionic Strength] and [Psionic Attack Bonus] are also shown.
The following lines in the section lists the various psionic
powers and praxis known by the character.
OTHER INFORMATION
You can use this section to write down any other information you
think is important, such as notes on the adventure.
APPENDIX B: GM’S RESOURCES
ALLIES AND FOES
This section contains the statistics and descriptions (when
necessary) of all the creatures and NPCs that the characters might
encounter during the introductory adventure “A Voice in the Void”.
The stat blocks are divided between NPCs and creatures, and
are presented in alphabetical order.
Below you can find a short guide that will help you to read and
use the stat blocks in the best way.
READ A STAT BLOCK
Name: A creature’s stat block header displays its name.
Classification: The first line immediately after the name shows
the creature’s classification. The terms in the classification are
called descriptors and include the Type (construct, humanoid,
phytoid, xenoid and zooid), size, and nature (for example,
whether herbivore or carnivore, predator or parasite, and so on).
Level and Threat: After the name and the classification, the stat
block reports the creature’s level and its threat rating. The
threat provides a general estimate of how great a danger the
creature is, giving the GM an idea of what level the characters
should be to face it (levels 1-4 for low threats, 5-10 for moderate
threats, and so on).
Base stats: The stat block reports the creature’s vitality points,
Defense, Armor Value, and speed.
Abilities and skills: Like player characters, NPCs and creatures
are defined by the seven ability scores and their associated
skills. For more information on abilities and their use in the
game, see Chapter 1.
Vulnerabilities, resistances, and immunities: Some creatures
have vulnerability, resistance, or immunity to certain types
of damage. In addition, some creatures are immune to certain
conditions.
Special senses: This entry indicates any special sense the
creature might have (such as infravision). The special senses
are described in Chapter 1.
Languages: When present, this entry reports the languages that
the creature knows.
Special traits: Special traits (which appear before any actions
or reactions) are characteristics that are likely to be relevant
in a combat encounter and that require some explanation.
Actions and reactions: When a creature takes its action, it can
choose from the options in the Actions section of its stat block
or use one of the actions available to all creatures, such as the
Dash or Hide action. Likewise, if a creature can do something
special with its reaction (other than the general reactions
described in Chapter 1), that information is listed in the
Reactions section of its stat block. Conversely, if a creature
has no special reaction, that section is absent.
CREATURE’S ATTACKS
The most common actions that a creature might take in combat
are melee and ranged attacks. These can be special attacks (such
as psionic attacks) or weapon attacks, where the “weapon” might
be a manufactured item or a natural weapon, such as a claw or
tail spike. For more information on attacks see Chapter 1.
Creature vs. Target: The target of an attack is usually either
one creature or one target, the difference being that a “target”
can be either a creature or an object.
Hit: Any damage dealt or other effects that occur as a result
of an attack hitting a target are described after the “Hit” notation.
You have the option of taking average damage or rolling the
damage (both the average damage and the die expression are
presented).
Miss: If an attack has an effect that occurs on a miss, that
information is presented after the “Miss:” notation. Otherwise
this notation is absent.
Ammunition: If a creature needs ammo to make its ranged
attacks, you can assume that the creature carries enough of them.
Multiattack: A creature that can make multiple attacks when
taking the Attack action has the Multiattack feature, just like
characters who possess the Extra Attack class feature.
LIMITED USAGE
Some creature’s special abilities have restrictions on the number
of times they can be used.
X/Rest: The notation “X/Rest” means a special ability can be
used X number of times and that a creature must finish a rest
to regain expended uses. For example, “2/Rest” means a special
ability can be used twice and that the creature must finish a rest
to use it again. Sometimes the notation indicates “X/Full Rest,
which means that a creature must finish a full rest to regain
expended uses of that special ability.
Recharge X–Y: The notation “Recharge X–Y” means a creature
can use a special ability once and that the ability then has a
random chance of recharging during each subsequent round of
combat. At the start of each of the creature’s turns, roll a d6. If the
roll is one of the numbers in the recharge notation, the creature
regains the use of the special ability. For example, “Recharge 5-6”
indicates that once used, the creature’s special ability recharges
at the start of its turn if a 5 or 6 is rolled on a d6. The ability also
recharges when the creature finishes a rest.
APPENDIX A: CHARACTERS’ SHEETS 95
 NON-PLAYER CHARACTERS TAMÌR VAN VELD
The only two NPCs the characters might interact with during
the adventure are Dr. Tamìr Van Veld and Urania, the Artificial Medium humanoid (terran), evolved omnivore
Intelligence of the Perseus III. Below are brief descriptions that Level 8, low/moderate threat
will help the GM to role-play these NPCs. Dr. Van Veld comes
with a stat block while Urania does not need game stats. Vitality Points: 27 Defense: 15
Speed: 10 m Armor Value: 3
TAMÌR VAN VELD
CMB STR DEX PER INT WIL TEC
Log n° 8979 – Chief Science Officer: Tamìr Van Veld.
“I am Tamìr Valik Van Veld. Raised on Fyrsne. Graduated with 3 3 2 3 5 4 2
honors from the Elmar Academy, with a specialization in applied Skills: Alertness 2 [+5], Astronautics 2 [+4], Cunning 2 [+6],
xenology. Four children. Volunteer member of the PERSEUS Energy Weapons 3 [+6], Fortitude 1 [+5], G-Zero 1 [+4], Inspection 1 [+4],
exploration project. Medicine 2 [+7], Nature 2 [+7], Science 4 [+9], Tampering 1 [+3],
I am Dr. Van Veld. Together with the crew of the Perseus III Stamina 1 [+4]
we crossed the void and did not falter. Beyond the great chasm,
Languages: Espar (archaic), Terran, Draalani.
we heard the voiceless language of the Våc fill our skulls like
molten metal, we explored the pectiniferous ridges of Cvach and Courage of the Mad: Van Veld has advantage on saving throws made
witnessed the seven sunsets of Phlege. All this and much more. against being charmed and frightened.
And we never faltered. Expertise: Whenever Van Veld takes an ability check involving the Energy
I, the ship’s chief science officer, completed the mission. Weapons, Alertness, Cunning and Science skills, he can treat a total roll
I validated the return procedure. I guaranteed prophylaxis. of 5 or less (on the sum of 2d12) as if it were 6. If he rolls a 1 on any of
I ensured my crew-mates the dreamless sleep of cryocapsules. the dice, this feature has no effect.
And as of today, I have spent over four centuries aboard this ship. Assured Outcome (2/rest): Van Veld can choose to use this feature
I, not Urania, have spent all my remaining time studying the when he makes an ability check involving one of the skills he has. If he
biome invading the lower decks. The artificial mind is a distorted does so, he rolls only one d12 and automatically considers the result of
mirror. All that reflects is not light. Everything that happens is the other one a 12.
not present. Urania is contaminated, not me. They should have Overturn the Odds (1/rest): When Van Veld rolls a 1 on any dice of an
listened to me when I mentioned the bio-electrical connections ability check, he can decide to turn it into a 9 instead.
the biome was making with the ship. But their gazes upon me,
ACTIONS
dejected, distressed, then resigned... resigned to the fact that
I was lost. Urania! Not me! Urania is infected... why my friends? Multiattack: Van Veld can make two attacks, instead of one, whenever
I didn’t kill my comrades. Abandoning them in a synthetic ice he takes the Attack action on his turn.
burial here in the middle of nowhere, far from our homes and our Unarmed strike. Melee weapon attack: +3 to hit, reach 1 m, one target.
time. Everything that happens is not present. All that reflects is Hit: 5 (1d3 + 3) kinetic damage.
not light. Is that so Urania? Urania! Not me. Knife. Melee weapon attack: +3 to hit, reach 1 m, one target.
Me… I’m not me anymore. A nightmare... it’s just a nightmare. Hit: 6 (1d6 + 3) kinetic damage.
Here. Face to face with the abyss... burning with stars.” Heavy blaster handgun. Ranged weapon attack: +6 to hit, short range,
one target. Hit: 10 (2d6 + 3) energy damage.
URANIA
Log n ° 8847 – Chief Engineer: Raeel Vas Nehema
“Damn! I just finished defragmenting Urania’s secondary
matrix. It was as useless as trying to solve one of Tuukh’s
oneirohedra. As if there was an invisible force, a shadow that
inexorably reprograms the clusters I leave behind.
Long story short: the AI continues to perceive the presence of
a crew that has been evacuated for years; she continues to show
anomalies in her standard emotional protocols; a perceptible
latency and elusiveness in the interactions remains. Basically,
it’s like dealing with a schizophrenic teenager! The positive side
is that she keeps me company, much more than usual.
It seems that the years spent in solitude during our cryogenic
sleeps are giving her a strong sense of humor, and her sudden
changes of mood often make me laugh more than her own
sarcastic jokes.
Jokes aside. I am very worried. She’s one of nine unique
intelligences, our one. In the last years we have known each other
well, also through our chats in my quarters. But recently it seems
that she has a part of herself that she doesn’t want to share with
me either. A part that is hers alone, into which I cannot enter.
It’s the first time that I feel so alone in the presence of a
machine, almost like I’m dealing with a living being. Maybe
all this silence is changing her too.
Well. Better if I go and talk to her.”

96 APPENDIX B: GM’S RESOURCES

CREATURES AUTOMATON, SECURITY
The stat blocks are presented in alphabetical order.
Medium construct, divergent
ARACHNOID Level 6, low/moderate threat

Medium zooid (arthropod), predatory omnivore Vitality Points: 20 Defense: 18 (deflector shield)
Level 6, low/moderate threat Speed: 10 m Armor Value: 5 (armor plating)

Vitality Points: 18 Defense: 18 (nimbleness) CMB STR DEX PER INT WIL TEC
Speed: 10 m Armor Value: 3 (natural) 4 3 3 3 2 0 1

CMB STR DEX PER INT WIL TEC
3 3 3 4 -3 0 -3
Skills: Alertness 2 [+6], Inspection 1 [+5], Natural Weapons 3 [+6],
Reflex 2 [+5], Stealth 2 [+5], Wrestling 2 [+5]
Special Senses: Infravision, blindsight 3 m
Perfect Climb: The arachnoid can climb virtually any kind of surface
without needing to make an ability check.
Stability: The arachnoid has advantage on ability checks made against
being prone.
ACTIONS
Multiattack: The arachnoid can make two attacks, instead of one,
whenever it takes the Attack action on its turn.
Bite. Melee weapon attack: +6 to hit, reach 1 m, one target. Hit: 6
(1d6 + 3) kinetic damage and the target must make a DC 15 STR
(Stamina) saving throw, taking 4 (1d8) biotic damage on a failed save,
or half as much damage on a successful one.
Acid Spray (recharge 5-6): The arachnoid sprays corrosive mucus
against a creature it can see within 6 meters of itself. The target must
make a DC 18 DEX (Reflex) saving throw, taking 10 (3d6) energy damage
on a failed save, or half as much damage on a successful one.
Skills: Alertness 2 [+6], Cold Weapons 2 [+6], Energy Weapons 3 [+7],
Might 2 [+5], Reflex 2 [+5], Stamina 2 [+5]
Damage Immunities: Biotic, Psychic
Condition Immunities: Bleeding, charmed, exhaustion, frightened,
paralyzed, sickened, stunned
Special Senses: Thermovision
Languages: Espar (archaic)
Axiomatic Mind: The automaton cannot be pushed to act contrary to its
nature, programming or instructions.
Non-Living: The automaton does not breathe, eat, or sleep.
EM Sensitivity: The automaton is sensitive to effects caused by EM
attacks. Such effects can impose conditions on the automaton to which
it’s normally immune (for example sickened, paralyzed or stunned).
ACTIONS
Multiattack: The automaton can make two attacks, instead of one,
whenever it takes the Attack action on its turn.
Integrated blade (x2). Melee weapon attack: +6 to hit, reach 1 m, one
target. Hit: 7 (1d8 + 3) kinetic damage.
Blaster SMG. Ranged weapon attack: +7 to hit, close range, target.
Hit: 10 (2d6 + 3) energy damage.

APPENDIX B: GM’S RESOURCES 97

 DRONE, DEFENSIVE (MALFUNCTIONING) DRONE, NIADA’S PERSONAL
Large construct, divergent Tiny construct, divergent
Level 7, moderate threat Level 1, low threat

Vitality Points: 30 Defense: 17 (deflector shield) Vitality Points: 10 Defense: 16

Speed: 0 m, fly 12 m Armor Value: 5 (armor plating) Speed: 0 m, fly 12 m Armor Value: 3 (armor plating)

CMB STR DEX PER INT WIL TEC CMB STR DEX PER INT WIL TEC
5 3 2 4 -2 0 0 2 0 3 3 -3 0 -2

Skills: Alertness 2 [+6], Energy Weapons 3 [+8], Kinetic Weapons 4 [+9], Skills: Alertness 1 [+4], Energy Weapons 1 [+3], Kinetic Weapons 1 [+3],
Stamina 1 [+4] Reflex 1 [+4]

Damage Immunities: Biotic, Psychic Damage Immunities: Biotic, Psychic

Condition Immunities: Bleeding, charmed, exhaustion, frightened, Condition Immunities: Bleeding, charmed, exhaustion, frightened,
paralyzed, sickened, stunned paralyzed, sickened, stunned
Special Senses: Thermovision Special Senses: Thermovision

Float: The drone can fly without moving, floating in place; it can make
turns at any angle, and can even fly backwards. The drone is never in
danger of falling, unless some effect reduces its flying speed to 0.
Axiomatic Mind: The drone cannot be pushed to act contrary to its
nature, programming or instructions.
Non-Living: The drone does not breathe, eat, or sleep.
EM Sensitivity: The drone is sensitive to effects caused by EM attacks.
Such effects can impose conditions on the drone to which it’s normally
immune (for example sickened, paralyzed or stunned).
Float: The drone can fly without moving, floating in place; it can make
turns at any angle, and can even fly backwards. The drone is never in
danger of falling, unless some effect reduces its flying speed to 0.
Axiomatic Mind: The drone cannot be pushed to act contrary to its
nature, programming or instructions.
Non-Living: The drone does not breathe, eat, or sleep.
EM Sensitivity: The drone is sensitive to effects caused by EM attacks.
Such effects can impose conditions on the drone to which it’s normally
immune (for example sickened, paralyzed or stunned).

AZIONI
Machine gun. Ranged weapon attack: +9 to hit, medium range, one
target. Hit: 14 (2d10 + 3) kinetic damage.
Electric Pulse (recharge 5-6): The drone releases a strong electrical
pulse. Each creature within 3 meters of the drone must make a DC 20
DEX (Reflex) saving throw, taking 10 (3d6) energy damage on a failed
save, or half as much damage on a successful one. Creatures that
fail the save are also stunned until the start of the drone’s next turn.
AZIONI
Integrated blaster. Ranged weapon attack: +3 to hit, short range, one
target. Hit: 8 (1d10 + 3) energy damage.
Electric Pulse (recharge 5-6): The drone releases a strong electrical
pulse. Each creature within 2 meters of the drone must make a DC 16
DEX (Reflex) saving throw, taking 4 (1d8) energy damage on a failed save,
or half as much damage on a successful one. Creatures that fail the save
are also stunned until the start of the drone’s next turn.

98 APPENDIX B: GM’S RESOURCES

LYMPHATIC JELLY
Large xenoid (amorphous), scavenging omnivore
Level 8, moderate threat

Vitality Points: 38 Defense: 18 (nimbleness)

Speed: 6 m Armor Value: 0

CMB STR DEX PER INT WIL TEC

4 5 0 3 -3 -3 -3

Skills: Natural Weapons 3 [+7]

Damage Resistances: Biotic, Kinetic

Damage Immunities: Psychic
Damage Vulnerabilities: Energy
Condition Immunities: Bleeding, blinded, charmed, dazzled, deafened,
exhaustion, frightened, paralyzed, prone, sickened, stunned
Special Senses: Blindsight 20 m (blind beyond this radius) HUMMING INFESTER

Amorphous: The jelly can move through a space as narrow as 2 Tiny zooid (arthropod), parasitic carnivore
centimeters wide without squeezing. Level 4, low threat
Amorphous Physiology: The jelly does not breathe or sleep.
Vitality Points: 6 Defense: 18 (nimbleness)
Transparent: Even when the jelly is in plain sight, it takes a successful
Speed: 3 m, fly 12 m Armor Value: 1 (naturale)
DC 14 PER (Alertness) check to spot a jelly that has neither moved nor
attacked. A creature that tries to enter the jelly’s space while unaware of CMB STR DEX PER INT WIL TEC
its presence is surprised by the jelly.
2 0 3 3 -3 0 -3
ACTIONS Skills: Alertness 1 [+4], Natural Weapons 1 [+3], Reflex 1 [+4],
Pseudopod. Melee weapon attack: +7 to hit, reach 1 m, one target. Stealth 1 [+4].
Hit: 9 (1d8 + 5) kinetic damage.
Special Senses: Infravision
Engulf: The jelly moves up to its speed. While doing so, it can enter the
space of a Large or smaller size creature. Whenever the jelly enters a ACTIONS
creature’s space, the creature must make a DC 13 DEX (Reflex) saving
throw. On a successful save, the creature can choose to be pushed Bite. Melee weapon attack: +3 to hit, reach 1 m, one target. Hit: 2 (1d4)
1 meter back or sideways. A creature that chooses not to be pushed kinetic damage and the infester clings to the target. While clinging, the
suffers the consequences of a failed saving throw. On a failed save, infester can make a sting attack against the target as a minor action. The
the jelly enters the creature’s space, and the creature takes 3 (1d6) infester can detach itself by spending 1 meter of movement. A creature,
energy damage and is engulfed. The engulfed creature can’t breathe, is including the target, can use its action to forcefully detach the infester.
restrained, and takes 4 (1d8) energy damage at the start of each of the Sting. Melee weapon attack: +3 to hit, reach 1 m, one target. Hit: 3 (1d6)
jelly’s turns. When the jelly moves, the engulfed creature moves with it. kinetic damage plus 4 (1d8) biotic damage and the target must succeed
An engulfed creature can try to escape by taking an action to make a DC on a DC 14 STR (Stamina) saving throw or be paralyzed for 1 minute. The
16 STR (Might) check. On a success, the creature escapes and enters a target can repeat the saving throw at the end of each of its turns, ending
space of its choice within 1 meter of the jelly. the effect on himself on a success.
Implanting eggs: As an action, a female humming infester lays 3d6 eggs
REACTIONS
inside a medium or larger creature paralyzed by the toxin of its sting.
Split: When a lymphatic jelly is subjected to energy or kinetic damage, If not removed in some way, the eggs hatch after about two weeks and
it splits into two new jellies. Each new jelly has half the remaining vitality the newborn infester larvae begin to eat the host from inside, causing
points of the original one, rounded down. The new jellies are one size 1d4 biotic damage per round until the hapless creature dies.
smaller than the original one. A Tiny jelly cannot divide further. A jelly Even after death, the larvae continue to feed on the host’s corpse until
reduced to 0 vitality points dies, liquefying. practically nothing remains.

APPENDIX B: GM’S RESOURCES 99

 MIMIC PREDATOR PALE SLIME
Large zooid (exotic, psionic), predatory carnivore Medium xenoid (amorphous, psionic), scavenging omnivore
Level 10, moderate threat Level 5, low threat

Vitality Points: 45 Defense: 20 Vitality Points: 18 Defense: 14

Speed: 15 m Armor Value: 2 (natural) Speed: 4 m, climb 4 metri Armor Value: 0

CMB STR DEX PER INT WIL TEC CMB STR DEX PER INT WIL TEC
4 3 5 5 -1 2 -3 2 3 1 4 -3 -3 -3

Skills: Alertness 2 [+7], Climbing 1 [+4], Inspection 2 [+7], Might 1 [+4],
Natural Weapons 4 [+8], Reflex 3 [+8], Stealth 4 [+9], Survival 1 [+6],
Wrestling 3 [+7]
Special Senses: Infravision
Languages: The mimic predator is able to mimic the noises of its prey,
including words spoken by humanoid creatures.
Night Hunter: While in darkness or dim light, the mimic predator has
advantage on its DEX (Stealth) checks and can move stealthy at its full
speed without suffering negative consequences.
Skills: Natural Weapons 3 [+5]
Damage Resistances: Biotic, Kinetic
Damage Immunities: Psychic
Condition Immunities: Bleeding, blinded, charmed, dazzled, deafened,
exhaustion, frightened, paralyzed, prone, sickened, stunned
Special Senses: Blindsight 20 m (blind beyond this radius)
Amorphous: The slime can move through a space as narrow as 2
centimeters wide without squeezing.

Instinctive Defense: The mimic predator adds half of his Perception
score rounded down to its Defense (already included in the stats).
Evasion: If the mimic predator is subjected to an effect that allows it to
make a DEX saving throw to take only half damage, the predator instead
takes no damage if it succeeds on the save, and only half damage if it fails.
Keen Hearing and Sight: The mimic predator has advantage on
Perception checks that rely on hearing and sight.
ACTIONS
Multiattack: The mimic predator can make two attacks, instead of one,
whenever it takes the Attack action on its turn.
Bite. Melee weapon attack: +8 to hit, reach 1 m, one target.
Hit: 7 (1d8 + 3) kinetic damage.
Claws. Melee weapon attack: +8 to hit, reach 1 m, one target.
Hit: 6 (1d6 + 3) kinetic damage.
Tail. Melee weapon attack: +8 to hit, reach 3 m, one target. Hit: 6
(1d6 + 3) kinetic damage and the target must succeed on a DC 19
DEX (Acrobatics) or STR (Might) saving throw or be knocked prone.
If the target is prone, the mimic predator can make a bite attack
against it as a minor action.
Cloaking: As a minor action, the mimic predator is able to project a
psionic effect around itself that distorts light so that it becomes invisible.
As long as the predator remains still it is invisible. If it moves or takes any
action or reaction, the irregular distortion of the light reveals its position
while keeping it invisible. This effect is interrupted if the mimic predator
is hit by an attack, is incapacitated, or has its speed reduced to 0.
Amorphous Physiology: The slime does not breathe or sleep.
Corrosion: Any manufactured weapon that hits the pale ooze will
corrode. After dealing damage, the weapon takes a permanent and
cumulative -1 penalty on damage rolls. If its penalty drops to -5, the
weapon is destroyed. Ammunition that hits the slime is destroyed after
dealing damage.
False Appearance: While the slime remains motionless, it is
indistinguishable from a pool of oil or similar liquid.
ACTIONS
Pseudopod. Melee weapon attack: +5 to hit, reach 1 m, one target. Hit: 6
(1d6 + 3) kinetic damage plus 3 (1d6) energy damage, and if the target is
wearing manufactured armor, it must make a DC 16 DEX (Reflex) saving
throw. On a failed save, the target’s armor is partly corroded and takes
a permanent and cumulative -1 penalty to the Armor Value it offers. The
armor is destroyed if the penalty reduces its AV to 0.
Psychic Crush (recharge 6): The slime targets a creature it can sense
within 20 meters of itself. The target must make a DC 12 INT (Lucidity)
saving throw, taking 4 (1d8) psychic damage on a failed save, or half
as much damage on a successful one.

100 APPENDIX B: GM’S RESOURCES

PSEUDOSAUR TENTACULAR PLANT
Small zooid, predatory/scavenging carnivore Huge phytoid, predatory/scavenging carnivore
Level 5, low threat Level 9, moderate threat

Vitality Points: 15 Defense: 17 Vitality Points: 58 Defense: 16

Speed: 15 m Armor Value: 2 (naturale) Speed: 0 m Armor Value: 3 (natural)

CMB STR DEX PER INT WIL TEC CMB STR DEX PER INT WIL TEC
2 1 4 3 -1 0 -3 4 3 3 3 2 0 1

Skills: Alertness 2 [+5], Athletics 1 [+2], Climbing 1 [+2], Inspection 1
[+4], Natural Weapons 2 [+4], Reflex 3 [+7], Stealth 3 [+7], Survival 1
[+4], Wrestling 2 [+4]
Special Senses: Infravision
Camouflage: The pseudosaur has advantage on DEX (Stealth) checks
made while in its natural environment.
Keen Hearing and Sight: The pseudosaur has advantage on Perception
checks that rely on hearing and sight.
Pack Tactics: The pseudosaur has advantage on attack rolls against
a creature if at least one of the pseudosaur’s allies is adjacent to the
creature and the ally isn’t incapacitated.
Pounce: If the pseudosaur moves at least 10 meters straight toward a
creature and then hits it with a claws attack on the same turn, that target
must succeed on a DC 17 STR (Might) saving throw or be knocked prone.
If the target is prone, the pseudosaur can make one bite attack against it
as a minor action.
ACTIONS
Bite. Melee weapon attack: +4 to hit, reach 1 m, one target.
Hit: 5 (1d8 + 1) kinetic damage.
Claws. Melee weapon attack: +4 to hit, reach 1 m, one target.
Hit: 4 (1d6 + 1) kinetic damage.
Skills: Alertness 1 [+4], Might 3 [+7], Natural Weapons 3 [+7],
Stealth 2 [+5], Stamina 1 [+5], Wrestling 3 [+7]
Damage Immunities: Psychic
Damage Vulnerabilities: Energy
Condition Immunities: Bleeding, blinded, charmed, dazzled, deafened,
exhaustion, frightened, paralyzed, prone, sickened, stunned
Special Senses: Blindsight 20 m (blind beyond this radius)
Regenerating Tendrils: The tentacular plant can have up to six tendrils
at a time. Whenever it takes 20 or more damage in a single turn, one of
its tendrils is severed. A tendril can also be broken if a creature takes an
action and succeeds on a DC 16 STR (Might) check against it. At the end
of its turn, the plant can grow a replacement tendril, unless it has taken
at least 10 Energy damage since its last turn. The plant regains 8 vitality
points for each tendril it regrows in this way.
ACTIONS
Multiattack: The tentacular plant can make as many tentacle attacks as
it has tendrils, whenever it takes the Attack action on its turn.
Tendril. Melee weapon attack: +7 to hit, reach 4 m, one target.
Hit: 9 (1d10 + 4) kinetic damage and the target must succeed on a
DC 19 DEX (Reflex) saving throw or be grappled (escape DC 19). Until
the grapple ends, the target is restrained and lifted from the ground, and
the plant can’t use the same tendril on another target, but it can use its
ground slam attack against the grappled target.
Ground Slam: As a minor action, the tentacular plant violently slams to
the ground a target grappled by one of its tendrils. The target takes 11
(2d6 + 4) kinetic damage.

APPENDIX B: GM’S RESOURCES 101


THE NIGHTMARE
Large xenoid (psionic), divergent
Level 12, high threat
Vitality Points: 51
Speed: 10 m
MENTAL ASSAULT (PRAXIS)
Manifestation Time: 1 action
Range: Close
Duration: Instantaneous
The nightmare chooses a creature it can see within range. The target must
Defense: 19 make an INT (Lucidity) saving throw. On a failed save, the target takes 1d8
psychic damage and is sickened until the start of your next turn.
Armor Value: 4 (natural)

CMB STR DEX PER INT WIL TEC FLUCTUATION (PRAXIS)

5 5 4 4 3 2 -2 Manifestation Time: 1 reaction you make when you are hit by an attack
that you are aware of
Skills: Alertness 2 [+6], Intimidation 3 [+5], Might 3 [+8], Range: Personal
Natural Weapons 4 [+9], Psionics 4 [+7], Reflex 2 [+6], Stamina 3 [+8], Duration: Instantaneous
Wrestling 3 [+8] The nightmare alters the tangibility of its body to avoid the full impact of
an attack that hits it. This fluctuation is so fast that it is difficult to perceive
Damage Resistances: Biotic, Kinetic with the naked eye, giving the impression that the hit passes through the
Damage Vulnerabilities: Psychic nightmare. The nightmare gains resistance to the damage dealt by that
Special Senses: Infravision attack, regardless of the type of damage it deals.

Instinctive Defense: The nightmare adds half of its Perception score
rounded down to its Defense (already included in the stats).
Lacerating: If the nightmare hits a target with its claws twice during the
same turn, the target is grappled (escape DC 21). The nightmare can
make a bite attack as a minor action against a target it is grappling.
Protected by the Cloud: The nightmare is surrounded by a swirling
cloud. At the start of each of its turns, the nightmare decides whether to
use the cloud in an offensive or defensive way. The chosen effect lasts
until the start of its next turn.
Defensive cloud: The cloud contracts, obscuring an area with a 1
meter radius around the nightmare, causing disadvantage to attack rolls
against at it.
Offensive cloud: The cloud expands covering an area with a 3 meters
radius around the nightmare. Each creature that starts its turn in that
area or enter it for the first time during its turn take 1d6 kinetic damage.
Psychic Powers: The nightmare has a pool of 10 psi points, psionic force
19, psionic limit 4 and knows the following powers:
Praxis: Mental Assault, Fluctuation.
Powers: Instill Compulsion.
ACTIONS
Multiattack: The nightmare can make two attacks, instead of one,
whenever it takes the Attack action on its turn.
Bite. Melee weapon attack: +9 to hit, reach 1 m, one target. Hit: 8 (1d6 +
5) kinetic damage. Re-roll the damage die on a 1, until you roll 2 or more.
Claws. Melee weapon attack: +9 to hit, reach 2 m, one target. Hit: 9
(1d8 + 5) kinetic damage.
Dreadful Scream (recharge 5-6): As a minor action, the nightmare
emits a loud and terrible scream. Anyone who hears it must succeed on
a DC 19 WIL (Fortitude) saving throw or be frightened until the end of the
nightmare’s next turn.
INSTILL COMPULSION (TELEPATHY)
Manifestation Time: 1 action
Range: Close
Duration: Concentration, up to 1 minute
The nightmare chooses a creature it can see within range. The target must
make a WIL (Fortitude) saving throw. A target automatically succeed on the
save if it cannot be charmed. On a failed save, the target suffers one of the
following effects of the nightmare choice.
Gibbering (1+ psi): The target becomes unable to speak intelligibly.
Every effort it makes to speak results in a mix of gibberish and unintelligible
nonsense. This power has no effect on telepathic communication or on the
call of creatures that do not possess a spoken language.
Uncontrollable Laughter (1+ psi): The target feels an irrepressible urge
to laugh out loud. It is incapacitated and falls prone, unable to get up for the
duration. At the end of each of its turns, and each time it takes damage,
the target can re-roll the saving throw against this power. The target has
advantage on the saving throw if it’s triggered by damage. On a success,
the power ends for the target.
Sleep (1+ psi): The target falls asleep and is unconscious for the
duration. If a sleeping creature takes damage, or someone uses an action
to shake it, the creature awakens.
Unbridled Attraction (2+ psi): Choose a creature within range that the
target can see. The target feels a strong attraction towards that creature.
For the duration, the target must use the Dash action and use all
its movement in an attempt to reach the creature it is attracted to.
Once reached, the target will spend its turn to worship and caress the
creature, without taking any other action. At the end of each of its turns,
and each time it takes damage, the target can re-roll the saving throw
against this power. On a success, the power ends for the target.
Repulsion (2+ psi): Choose a creature within range that the target can
see. The target feels a terrible repulsion towards that creature. For the
duration, the target does whatever it takes to stay at least 10 meters away
from the creature that repels it. If the target ends his turn less that 10
meters away from the creature, it becomes frightened until it’s more than
10 meters away from it again. If moving more than 10 meters away from
the creature implies an obvious danger, the target can re-roll the saving
throw against this power. On a success, the power ends for the target.
Murderous Frenzy (3+ psi): The target is pervaded by a murderous
rampage. During its turn, the target must use his action to attack the
closest creature (ally or enemy). If there are no creatures within reach,
the target will act normally during that turn. At the end of each of its turns,
the target can re-roll the saving throw against this power. On a success,
the power ends for the target.
Increment: For each psi point spent in addition to the base cost, you can
affect one additional creature.

102 APPENDIX B: GM’S RESOURCES

APPENDIX B: GM’S RESOURCES 103
104 APPENDIX B: GM’S RESOURCES
APPENDIX B: GM’S RESOURCES 105
 EDGE CARDS
You can create your EDGE cards by choosing or randomly selecting two sentences from those listed below and writing them on a piece of
paper or cardboard. If you want, you can photocopy the standard EDGE card format shown on this page.

d100 Sentence

01–03 A mechanism jams

04–06 Something suddenly breaks

07–09 An out of order device strangely resumes working

10–12 Something turns out to be of poor quality

13–15 Something turns out to be of excellent quality

16–18 A favorable situation causes unexpected problems

19–21 An unfavorable situation reveals unexpected benefits

22–24 Something unexpected happens

25–27 Everything happens much faster than expected

28–30 Everything happens as if it were in slow motion

31–33 The existing hatred is temporarily set aside

34–36 A discussion goes on and on

37–39 A deal ends with the greatest benefit for someone

40–42 A conversation takes a strange turn

43–45 A conversation is interrupted by something urgent

46–48 A third party intervenes between two contenders

49–51 An unexpected threat comes into play

52–54 What seemed to be concluded is actually not

55–57 An action has unexpected consequences

58–60 A gross error goes unnoticed

61–63 Someone is seized by a sudden illness

64–66 Someone act in a bizarre way

67–69 Someone is seized by a profound inner tranquility

70–72 Someone unintentionally reveals a secret

73–75 Someone says or does something totally inappropriate or embarrassing

76–78 Someone is deeply impressed by what is just been told

79–81 Someone challenges authority or behaves disrespectfully

82–84 Someone realizes or discovers an important detail

85–87 Someone is blocked by indecision, favoring the opponents

88–90 Someone unexpectedly succeeds in something very difficult

91–93 Someone unexpectedly fails at something trivial

94–96 Someone hits an ally by mistake

97–99 Someone cheats death and miraculously clings to life

00 Re-roll

106 APPENDIX B: GM’S RESOURCES

OPEN GAME LICENSE VERSION 1.0A
The following text is the property of Wizards of the Coast, Inc. and is
Copyright 2000 Wizards of the Coast, Inc (“Wizards”). All Rights Reserved.
1. Definitions: (a) “Contributors” means the copyright and/or trademark
owners who have contributed Open Game Content; (b) “Derivative Material”
means copyrighted material including derivative works and translations
(including into other computer languages), potation, modification,
correction, addition, extension, upgrade, improvement, compilation,
abridgment or other form in which an existing work may be recast,
transformed or adapted; (c) “Distribute” means to reproduce, license, rent,
lease, sell, broadcast, publicly display, transmit or otherwise distribute;
(d) “Open Game Content” means the game mechanic and includes the
methods, procedures, processes and routines to the extent such content
does not embody the Product Identity and is an enhancement over the prior
art and any additional content clearly identified as Open Game Content by
the Contributor, and means any work covered by this License, including
translations and derivative works under copyright law, but specifically
excludes Product Identity. (e) “Product Identity” means product and product
line names, logos and identifying marks including trade dress; artifacts;
creatures characters; stories, storylines, plots, thematic elements, dialogue,
incidents, language, artwork, symbols, designs, depictions, likenesses,
formats, poses, concepts, themes and graphic, photographic and other
visual or audio representations; names and descriptions of characters,
spells, enchantments, personalities, teams, personas, likenesses and special
abilities; places, locations, environments, creatures, equipment, magical
or supernatural abilities or effects, logos, symbols, or graphic designs; and
any other trademark or registered trademark clearly identified as Product
identity by the owner of the Product Identity, and which specifically excludes
the Open Game Content; (f) “Trademark” means the logos, names, mark,
sign, motto, designs that are used by a Contributor to identify itself or its
products or the associated products contributed to the Open Game License
by the Contributor (g) “Use”, “Used” or “Using” means to use, Distribute,
copy, edit, format, modify, translate and otherwise create Derivative
Material of Open Game Content. (h) “You” or “Your” means the licensee
in terms of this agreement.
2. The License: This License applies to any Open Game Content that
contains a notice indicating that the Open Game Content may only be Used
under and in terms of this License. You must affix such a notice to any Open
Game Content that you Use. No terms may be added to or subtracted from
this License except as described by the License itself. No other terms or
conditions may be applied to any Open Game Content distributed using this
License.
3. Offer and Acceptance: By Using the Open Game Content You indicate
Your acceptance of the terms of this License.
4. Grant and Consideration: In consideration for agreeing to use this
License, the Contributors grant You a perpetual, worldwide, royalty-free,
non-exclusive license with the exact terms of this License to Use, the Open
Game Content.
5.Representation of Authority to Contribute: If You are contributing
original material as Open Game Content, You represent that Your
Contributions are Your original creation and/or You have sufficient rights to
grant the rights conveyed by this License.
6.Notice of License Copyright: You must update the COPYRIGHT NOTICE
portion of this License to include the exact text of the COPYRIGHT NOTICE
of any Open Game Content You are copying, modifying or distributing, and
You must add the title, the copyright date, and the copyright holder’s name
to the COPYRIGHT NOTICE of any original Open Game Content you Distribute.
7. Use of Product Identity: You agree not to Use any Product Identity,
including as an indication as to compatibility, except as expressly licensed
in another, independent Agreement with the owner of each element of that
Product Identity. You agree not to indicate compatibility or co-adaptability
with any Trademark or Registered Trademark in conjunction with a work
containing Open Game Content except as expressly licensed in another,
independent Agreement with the owner of such Trademark or Registered
Trademark. The use of any Product Identity in Open Game Content does not
constitute a challenge to the ownership of that Product Identity. The owner
of any Product Identity used in Open Game Content shall retain all rights,
title and interest in and to that Product Identity.
8. Identification: If you distribute Open Game Content You must clearly
indicate which portions of the work that you are distributing are Open Game
Content.
9. Updating the License: Wizards or its designated Agents may publish
updated versions of this License. You may use any authorized version of this
License to copy, modify and distribute any Open Game Content originally
distributed under any version of this License.
10. Copy of this License: You MUST include a copy of this License with
every copy of the Open Game Content You Distribute.
11. Use of Contributor Credits: You may not market or advertise the Open
Game Content using the name of any Contributor unless You have written
permission from the Contributor to do so.
12. Inability to Comply: If it is impossible for You to comply with any of the
terms of this License with respect to some or all of the Open Game Content
due to statute, judicial order, or governmental regulation then You may not
Use any Open Game Material so affected.
13. Termination: This License will terminate automatically if You fail to
comply with all terms herein and fail to cure such breach within 30 days of
becoming aware of the breach. All sublicenses shall survive the termination
of this License.
14. Reformation: If any provision of this License is held to be
unenforceable, such provision shall be reformed only to the extent
necessary to make it enforceable.
15. COPYRIGHT NOTICE
Open Game License v 1.0 Copyright 2000, Wizards of the Coast, Inc.
System Reference Document 5.0 Copyright 2016, Wizards of the Coast, Inc.;
Authors Mike Mearls, Jeremy Crawford, Chris Perkins, Rodney Thompson,
Peter Lee, James Wyatt, Robert J. Schwalb, Bruce R. Cordell, Chris Sims, and
Steve Townshend, based on original material by E. Gary Gygax And Dave
Arneson.
END OF LICENSE
Declaration of Open Content:
Regardless of placement within this document, all art and images are closed
content. Regardless of placement within this document, the following
names, sections and terms are closed content: Draalani, Iradian, Ja’raki,
Kergan, Navarian, Terran, Valkarian, Chapter 3.
Except as noted above, the following sections are Open Content:
Introduction, Chapters 1, Chapter 2, Appendix A, Appendix B.