Murder on the Merciful

# Murder on the *Merciful*

## Introduction

*Murder on the Merciful* is a fan-made adventure that has been converted for the SW5e roleplaying system. The story centers on the murder of Dr. Inigo
Zarander, a Rebel doctor aboard Nebulon-B Medical
Frigate the *Merciful*, and the search for his killer.

Game Masters may use *Murder on the Merciful* as
the start of a new campaign or to continue a Rebel
group’s ongoing adventures. Additionally, a group of
fringers, bounty hunters, or Jedi could act as
private investigators in this adventure rather than
the expected Rebel elite special forces team.

The players should start this adventure at 3rd level.

<div class='descriptive'>
 
 ##### GAME MASTER ONLY!
 Only the GM should read the rest of this book; it contains secrets and surprises
for the course of the adventure and reading ahead can spoil the fun!
 
 </div>

### Adventure Overview

In Act I, the PCs arrive in the Subterrel sector on
approach to the *Merciful* orbiting Cortica-3. As they
draw near, they receive orders to intercept and
destroy an Imperial shuttle and its TIE escort before
the shuttle jumps to lightspeed. After the combat, the
PCs come aboard the *Merciful* and they are shown to
the scene of Dr. Zarander’s murder.

In Act II, the PCs explore the ship, interview the
crew, gather information, and sort clues. A deadly
knife fight risks ending their investigation early, but
the leads should point them to Cortica-3.

In Act III, the PCs gain critical new intelligence on
Cortica-3 in the midst of intense trench warfare. On
their return to the *Merciful*, they must make a final
decision and an arrest - if they can stop the killer’s
wild escape!

### Preparation

The Game Master should read over the adventure in
preparation for playing, especially taking note of the
finale and who is revealed to be the killer, since one
key role for the GM will be helping the investigation
proceed at the right pace.

Additionally, the GM should create a hook that
works for the players if it is necessary
to get them involved as private investigators. Apart
from this, the adventure requires minimal planning!

## Act I: Death in Orbit

### Opening Crawl

To begin the adventure, read the following narrative
to the players:

> ##### Murder on the *Merciful!*
> Only yesterday, a Rebel doctor
was found murdered aboard Medical Frigate the *Merciful*
in the Subterrel sector. Your team has been commissioned
by Alliance High Command to assist the IRB (Internal
Review Board) investigation.
>
> The *Merciful* remains in
orbit around the small moon of Cortica-3 in an aid mission
to the wounded Rebel soldiers there. You and your team
must find and take into custody whoever killed Dr. Inigo
Zarander.
>
> May the force be with you!

\pagebreakNum

#### Connections

The GM may ask each player if they would like their
character to have a prior connection to some part of
the adventure, and may offer the following:
* Your character has served previously aboard the
*Merciful*, and you have many memories of that
time, good or bad.
* Your character has a longstanding rivalry with one
of the NPCs whom you will meet aboard the ship
(whom the GM will decide upon later).
* Your character is a huge fan of one of the NPCs
whom you will meet aboard the ship.
* Your character has a Mon Calamari friend who will
be significant for you in this adventure (the GM
can incorporate this connection at the end of Act I,
or in the midst of Act II, with the character affected
whenever a Mon Calamari organ or bodily fluid is
mentioned, hinted at, or discovered).
* Any other suitable connection.

These connections should allow the GM to more
closely involve the PCs in the adventure’s plot, and
foster emotional connection and better roleplaying
by the players. The GM takes on the responsibility of
involving these connections for the players.

### Arrival in Subterrel

The GM should then read the following:

> ##### 
> As your team’s vessel pulls out of hyperspace in the
Subterrel sector, a blast of light hits you and the planet
fills your vision. As your eyes adjust, you become aware of
the black rock that is Cortica-3, the planet’s tiny moon,
and in its orbit a graceful sight: the *Merciful*, a Nebulon-B
class Medical Frigate, Aurelius Ray commanding.
>
> Your clearance codes transmit, and you hear a pleasant
voice on the comm. “Welcome to the sector. You are cleared
to approach.”
>
> Suddenly, out from Cortica-3, an Imperial Lambda-class
shuttle launches, clearly on a break toward hyperspace,
flanked by four TIE fighters in cover formation.
>
> Another voice crackles over the comm. “This is Captain
Aurelius Ray. Cheers, welcome. Would appreciate if you
would engage enemy shuttle and deny lightspeed at all
costs. Over.”
>
> An asteroid belt floats around the planet Subterrel and by
Cortica-3, preventing the *Merciful* from close engagement
with the TIEs and shuttle, as they use the asteroid belt for
cover on their break for hyperspace. Your ship is traveling
further along the belt a distance from the *Merciful*, in the
shuttle’s path. You have a clear chance to intercept! How
do you plan to stop the shuttle and take on the TIEs?

The intent of this scene is to give the players a chance to think and plan, work together, and practice using the roleplaying system as they plot their intercept. If the players are familiar with the *Starships of the Galaxy* combat rules, the GM can use the provided stat blocks and run the combat in the standard way. If they aren't, or if their starship isn't sufficiently outfitted for the fight against the Imperial ships to be balanced, the GM can instead simply request a few ability checks and narrate the action as the players attempt to stop the shuttle.

___
> ## Lambda-class T-4a Shuttle
>*Tier 2 Medium starship, courier*
> ___
> - **Armor Class** 14 (deflection)
> - **Damage Reduction** 3
> - **Hit Points** 59 (7d8)
> - **Shield Points** 57 (fortress)
> - **Shield Regeneration Rate** 5
> - **Speed** 200 ft., turning 250 ft.
>___
>|STR|DEX|CON|INT|WIS|CHA|
>|:---:|:---:|:---:|:---:|:---:|:---:|
>|10 (+0)|13 (+1)|12 (+1)|12 (+1)|13 (+1)|14 (+2)|
>___
> - **Saving Throws** Dex +3, Cha +4
> - **Skills** Astrogation +5, Broadcast +6, Probe +3, Scan +3
> ___
>
> ### Actions
>
> ***Double Laser Cannon.*** *Ranged Ship Attack:* +3 to hit, range 800/3200 ft., one target. *Hit:* 5 (2d4) energy damage.
>
> ***Twin Auto-Blaster.*** The shuttle unloads on a single target within 1000 feet. The target must succeed on a DC 11 Dexterity saving throw or take 5 (2d4) energy damage. If the target is more than 250 feet away, it has advantage on this saving throw.
>
> ### Reactions
>
> ***Emergency Generator (1/Recharge).*** When the shuttle is reduced to 0 shield points but not destroyed outright, it can use its reaction to drop to 1 shield point instead.

\pagebreakNum

___
> ## TIE/LN Starfighter
>*Tier 1 Small starship, strike fighter*
> ___
> - **Armor Class** 14 (lightweight)
> - **Hit Points** 18
> - **Shield Points** 0 (none)
> - **Shield Regeneration Rate** 0
> - **Speed** 400 ft., turning 100 ft.
>___
>|STR|DEX|CON|INT|WIS|CHA|
>|:---:|:---:|:---:|:---:|:---:|:---:|
>|15 (+2)|17 (+3)|11 (+0)|10 (+0)|14 (+2)|11 (+0)|
>___
> - **Saving Throws** Str +4, Dex +5
> - **Skills** Probe +2, Scan +4
> - **Senses** blindsight 1000 ft.
> ___
>
> ***Flight Computer.*** The TIE/ln Starfighter can take the Evade, Fly, or Regenerate Shield action as a bonus action on each of its turns.
>
> ### Actions
>
> ***Twin Laser Cannon.*** *Ranged Ship Attack:* +4 to hit, range 600/2400 ft., one target. *Hit:* 6 (1d8 + 2) energy damage.

If the PCs have not stopped the shuttle after about
three rounds of action, it jumps to lightspeed. If this
occurs, once the adventure is complete, an Imperial
Star Destroyer will enter the sector and threaten the
*Merciful;* but hopefully this is unlikely!

## Subterrel

Astrogation Data: Polis Massa system, Subterrel
system, Outer Rim region
***
Orbital Metrics: 402 days per year / 30 hours
per day
***
Government: localized

Population: less than 1 million (humanoid
clones known as “shovel-handed miners”)
***
Languages: Kaminoan
***
Terrain: Glaciers, geysers, icy mountains,
abandoned mine shafts
***
Major Cities: Kamineen City
***
Areas of Interest: The Great Kaminoan Rift,
Nexus Inc. secret spice tunnels, Cortica-3 (moon)
***
Major Exports: Spice (formerly, in large
quantity, now limited and smuggled)
***
Major Imports: Consumables, mining tech,
survival gear, expendable labor
***
Trade Routes: Proximate to the Corellian Trade
Spine and the Hydian Way
***
Special Conditions: Lawless, unsafe conditions
***
Background: As recent as the time leading up to
the Clone Wars, Subterrel was well-known as a
dangerous but lucrative mining world. On the
back of a Kaminoan clone workforce known as
the “shovel-handed miners,” the world built for
itself a name across the galaxy as the premier
source of legal spice and wild adventure.

Driven by the insane urge for profit, industry
on the planet triggered underground volcanoes
whose eruption put the planet in a global freeze.

Due to the freeze and a subsequent Republic
ban upheld by the Empire, the planet is largely
lifeless, besides a remnant of the shovel-handed
miners gathered mainly in icy Kamineen City
and those smugglers crazy enough to attempt
mining operations, such as Nexus Inc., a crime
and spice syndicate.

Travelers to Subterrel face icy conditions, old,
abandoned, and dangerous hidden mine shafts,
as well as whatever trouble they may find with
the world’s occupants.

Those brave enough to venture out onto the
Great Kaminoan Rift, however, may find a just
reward if they come across remnants of former
times - perhaps even an old cache of Kaminoan
saberdarts ripe for the taking.

<div class='descriptive'>
 
 ##### Secret Metals
 While the planet of Subterrel is well-known across
the galaxy for its lucrative and dangerous mining
colonies, the tiny moon of Cortica-3 has remained
overlooked for millennia. Only recently, Imperial
excavators working for Moff Dardano discovered the
moon’s natural resources and began secretly mining
its precious metals. This work is secret even to the
Empire at large, at the Moff’s behest.

Just prior to *Murder on the Merciful*, the Moff’s
secret had been devised by Rebel spies, and a task
force dispatched to claim the moon for the Rebellion.
The assault has digressed into trench warfare, and
the *Merciful* is filled with the conflict’s wounded.
 
 </div>
 
\pagebreakNum

### Coming Aboard

Read the following to the players:

> ##### 
> “Well done!” says the voice on the comm, or, “Valiant
attempt. You are clear to enter through the main hangar.”
>
> Your ship secures its landing aboard the *Merciful*. As you
disembark, a tall Kel Dor Rebel Navy Officer (with a
metal face mask) is there to welcome you.
>
> “Good show out there. I’m sure it’s only a matter of time
before the Empire knows we’re here. And thank you for
coming on such short notice,” he says warmly, shaking
each hand. He pauses, turning grim. “It’s a horrible thing.
But we had best get straight to work. This way.”
>
> He turns and leads you through the ship. “That was our
main hangar, by the way, Loading Bay A; here are our ship
schematics,” he says, handing you a datapad as you walk
briskly down gleaming corridors. “My name is Captain
Aurelius, commanding - and I’m taking you now to the
scene of the stunt, as it were: Loading Bay C.”
>
> You finally reach the bay and enter, ducking under
highlighted tape and around ship’s soldiers. “Over here,”
says the Captain, gesturing. He grimaces behind his Kel
Dor face mask. “Ghastly stuff.”
>
> In the corner of the Loading Bay lies a body on its back:
Dr. Inigo Zarander.

If the PCs study the body, they see it is a relatively
young human male, in the jacket of a doctor, a
bloody wound in his chest, blood dripping from his
mouth.

A DC 15 Wisdom (Perception) check reveals the
body’s hands are strangely sticky; this check is made with advantage if they touch the body. Passing the check by 5 or more reveals that the chest wound
is certainly from a long knife, stabbed downward.
“A skinny in the ticker,” says the Captain. “We haven’t
found the weapon used, though.”

A DC 15 Intelligence (Lore) check may be
attempted to determine the source of the hands’
stickiness. Passing the check by 5 or more reveals it is likely
from Mon Calamari skin; a less successful check
reveals that the source is amphibian, at least. If the PCs tell the
Captain (or anyone else), they note that there is only
one Mon Cal aboard ship: the Ship’s Cook, Abraxis
Armada (see page 6 for more details).

If the PCs touch the body, they find a note listing body
organs and attached prices. This list could come to
the PCs later, otherwise, if the body is processed
further.

“What should we do with the body?” the Captain asks.
He complies with the PCs’ directions. “Very good.
Now, if you need me, just call.” He taps the comm link on
his vest, with a serious face. “But the ship is at your
disposal. Go anywhere, interview anyone, just, stay
alert,” he says. “The killer is still in our midst.”

#### Awarding XP

Players may gain XP for any of the following:
* Stopping the Shuttle (200 XP for each player)
* Destroying TIE Fighters (100 XP per TIE)
* Significant Investigative Work (100 XP)
* Impressive Storytelling (100 XP)

## Act II: An Ugly Puzzle

### Investigation

In Act II, the PCs carry out a relatively freeform
investigation. They may visit any of the following
locations and speak to any of the characters. Their
objective is to gather clues and arrest a suspect.

The locations are arranged alphabetically, and the
characters are included in the areas in which they are
most likely to be found. Additional locations or
characters may be created by the GM
as needed; the following list is not exhaustive.

#### Bridge

> ##### 
> The bridge is filled with the glow of computer screens and
the hum of busy engineers and naval officers. Through the
glass to the fore, port, and starboard you can see Cortica-3,
the planet Subterrel, and the great blackness of space.

Aurelius is usually present and he will hail the PCs if
he sees them, inquire of the investigation, offer any
help he can, and encourage an arrest.

Aurelius allows for monitored use of the ship’s
computers. If the ship’s technicians are asked, or if
the PCs complete a DC 15 Intelligence (Technology)
check, it is revealed that the ship’s closed-circuit
holocams were turned off in Loading Bay C at the
time of the murder, 2200-0100 hours. With further
questions, or if the players pass the check by 5 or more, it is revealed they were off once a
month for those three hours, and the bay was signed
out to medical staff for those times.

##### AURELIUS RAY, CAPTAIN OF THE *MERCIFUL*

Aurelius is played like a British RAF officer, with a
“right ho, chaps” attitude. He is humble and not the
least bit sinister, though he may be negligent.

If questioned: Aurelius is alibied for the time of
death by the bridge staff. He knows very little of Dr.
Zarander or the other medical staff and has no
ulterior motivations.

If necessary: Aurelius may inform the PCs (over
comm or in person) of the following: “Strange, but we
have a Lieutenant Istris Schneid in the brig, an Imperial
officer, recently captured, and he claims he has information
about the murder of Dr. Zarander. He’s requesting to
speak to you. It’s up to your discretion, of course.” See the
entry at the Brig for more details.

\pagebreakNum

#### Briefing Room

> ##### 
> The briefing room has been converted for your use as a
planning and interview area. A great table takes up much
of the room; on it rests a small handheld sound and
hologram recorder. A large projector screen covers the far
wall. By the door, a switch dims or brightens the
fluorescent lights overhead.

#### Brig

> ##### 
> Two soldiers stand guard at the entrance to the ship’s brig,
which consists of just a few small cells and a stark white
interview room, empty except for a table and chairs.

The soldiers are tight-lipped and will not reveal
any information about the prisoner to the PCs; they
refer questions to the Captain. The soldiers are willing to let the PCs interview the prisoner, but insist that the PCs leave their weapons at the entrance; the prisoner is valuable and certain parties might wish him assassinated. The soldiers cannot be persuaded or intimidated into forgoing this precaution, but any PC can attempt a DC 15 Dexterity (Sleight of Hand) or Charisma (Deception) check to smuggle a weapon into the room.

See the entry for
Aurelius for how the brig’s prisoner, Istris Schneid,
might get involved, and see the entry for Lieutenant
Schneid for that involvement.

##### LIEUTENANT ISTRIS SCHNEID

Lieutenant Schneid is played like a sympathetic war
hero, but he is extremely dangerous. The GM may
involve him to thicken the plot with a false allegation
and a deadly confrontation.

If the PCs go to the brig to interview him, read the
following to the players:

> ##### 
> The soldiers lead you into the interview room, where
Schneid sits on the other side of the plain white table in the
small, uncomfortably bright room. His silver hair and
rugged face indicate years of distinguished service.
>
> “I need to speak with you... alone,” he growls, and the
guards retreat from the door, locking it behind. He sits
still, glancing furtively at the door and meaningfully at
each of you, waiting for you to speak.

If the PCs ask him for information, or eventually if
they say nothing, Schneid slowly speaks.

> ##### 
> “What I have to say to you is... sensitive, to say the least.
The killer...” he pauses to look again at the door. “The
killer is none other than the Ship’s Captain himself,
Aurelius Ray!”

The PCs may roleplay further conversation, and the
GM should attempt to have Schneid string them
along but without him actually giving any proof,
since he has none. Eventually, the PCs should make
a Wisdom (Insight) check opposed by Schneid's Charisma (Deception) check. If the PCs
are successful, read:

> ##### 
> “You don’t believe me!” he snarls.
“Well, how do you like that...”

If they fail, read:

> ##### 
> “It’s just
amazing, right?” he says, leaning in. “I don’t know why
exactly I know it, but I just do.”

Either way, then read:

> ##### 
> Schneid springs up from his chair, his hands free, a small,
jagged knife glinting in his right hand.

Any of the PCs who failed their opposed check are surprised at the start of combat.

___
> ## Lieutenant Istris Schneid
>*Medium humanoid (human), lawful dark*
> ___
> - **Armor Class** 13 (unarmored)
> - **Hit Points** 38 (7d8 + 7)
> - **Speed** 30 ft.
>___
>|STR|DEX|CON|INT|WIS|CHA|
>|:---:|:---:|:---:|:---:|:---:|:---:|
>|10 (+0)|16 (+3)|12 (+1)|15 (+2)|11 (+0)|17 (+3)|
>___
> - **Saving Throws** Dex +5, Wis +2
> - **Skills** Deception +7, Insight +2
> - **Senses** passive Perception 10
> - **Languages** Galactic Basic
> - **Challenge** 2 (450 XP)
> ___
>
> ***ISB Training.*** Schneid deals one extra die of damage with his weapons (included).
>
> ***Surprise Attack.*** If Schneid surprises a creature and hits it with an attack during the first round of combat, the target takes an extra 7 (2d6) damage from the attack.
>
> ### Actions
> ***Multiattack.*** Schneid makes two vibrodagger attacks.
>
> ***Vibrodagger.*** *Melee Weapon Attack:* +5 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. *Hit:* 8 (2d4 + 3) kinetic damage.
>
> ### Reactions
>
> ***Parry.*** Schneid adds 2 to his AC against an attack that would hit him. To do so, Schneid must see the attacker and be wielding a melee weapon.

Schneid will fight to the death, but the soldiers
return and subdue him after three rounds. After the
combat, read the following:

> ##### 
> Aurelius hails you over the comm. “Right, then; a knife in
the brig. Brilliant. How the blazes did the blighter get a
hold of it? Get to the medical bays if you need any
assistance. My apologies. Unbelievable.”

\pagebreakNum

Aurelius is shocked at any accusation. He has no
time for interrogation and will not grant an interview
if asked; he takes it lightly at first, but he is offended
if pressed. The PCs might never learn how the knife
came to Schneid, but the killer gave it to him through
the kitchen, hidden in a meal.

If the PCs take up Aurelius's offer to receive treatment in the medical bay, they gain the benefits of a short rest as their wounds are bandaged by a medical droid.

#### Galley

> ##### 
> You step into the galley, and you enter a world of chaos
and glory - the famous kitchen of Abraxis Armada. The
Mon Cal moves like a cyclone, his slippery hands both
clumsy and artful. His staff chop and stir feverishly,
struggling to keep up. They’re doing a fine job, though,
and the steel racks and white counters are shining and
clean throughout the small but well-outfitted room. Only
the dishes are starting to back up...

After any conversation with Abraxis, the PCs should
make a DC 20 Wisdom (Perception) check. If
successful, the PCs notice the murder weapon hiding
in plain sight: the long knife is placed with the
kitchen knives. If the PCs think to attempt it, a DC 20 Intelligence (Lore) check reveals that it is a
medical knife.

##### ABRAXIS ARMADA, SHIP’S COOK

If questioned: Abraxis has an airtight alibi: “I wasn’t
there! My entire waitstaff can vouch for me.” He is
shocked if the PCs discover the murder weapon in
his Galley, claiming rightly that it’s not even a
kitchen knife and it’s clearly been washed clean with
acid.

If necessary: Abraxis seeks out the PCs, or else after
they interview him, he shares the following: “I have
to tell you: I saw one of our soldiers, Corporal Gentii
Dulovic, in a really hot argument with Dr. Zarander just
last week. I heard him accusing the doctor of murder! I
think he did it, or he knows something!” Any Officer can
tell the PCs that Corporal Dulovic is on Cortica-3
now since the morning, so he had opportunity, but
the PCs will have to talk to Aurelius and Azalyn
Kardal and shuttle over to interview him.

<div class='descriptive'>
 
 ##### Character Stats
 If necessary, the following stat blocks are recommended for use from *Scum and Villainy 2.0:*
 
 * Aurelius Ray: Officer, Senior
 * Abraxis Armada: Trooper
 * Shia Sunfell: Trooper
 * Azalyn Kardal: Navy Pilot
 * Kass Trobona: Trooper, Captain
 * Gentii Dulovic: Trooper
 
Do not reveal these stats to the players, as it will suggest greater importance to NPCs with better stats. You may wish to adapt some stats up or down, as needed.
 
 </div>

\columnbreak

#### Loading Bay A

> ##### 
> The main hangar is massive but mostly empty; the ship
has had to lease its starfighter complement to another war
zone temporarily. Your ship and the *Merciful's* RM-09
Alliance Shuttle are the only vessels parked here currently.
A pilot scrubs away at the shuttle.

The pilot is Azalyn Kardal (see the Cortica-3 entry).

#### Loading Bay B

> ##### 
> A large, mostly empty bay, like the others. Electricity
hums softly in the background; an unusual sound for a
typically busy area. Several crates on wheels stand by the
wall, something within quietly crackling. The bay is
mostly dark and otherwise clear.

The PCs may open a crate with a DC 15 Intelligence (Technology) check digitally or a DC 20 Dexterity (Sleight of Hand) check manually. Both checks may be
attempted. If opened, the crate is filled
with strange internal organs on ice. A DC 20 Intelligence (Lore) or Wisdom (Medicine) check reveals at least one
organ to be Mon Cal in origin.

Any closed-circuit holocam footage of the bay is
too dark for identification, but someone wheeled in
the crates at 0100 hours.

#### Loading Bay C

> ##### 
> The loading bay is completely empty except for the
cordoned off and guarded crime scene.

#### Medical Bays

> ##### 
> Nurses and orderlies fly about, busily tending to the
wounded soldiers back from battle on Cortica-3. You can’t
help but nearly be carried through the hallways by the
energy of everyone working. One of you bumps into a
huge Wookiee in a white lab jacket, who roars mildly at you
but continues on with his cart; the badge reads Lobacca
Chode, anesthesiologist. No one seems to have time for
you, except you do see a nurse eyeing you darkly as she
helps a patient.

The Nurse is Shia Sunfell.

##### LOBACCA CHODE, ANESTHESIOLOGIST

Lobacca can be played for laughs, as desired. He is
just a Wookie anesthesiologist minding his own
business; he has nothing to share about the case and
he is very difficult to communicate with.

Unknowable to the players, however, is Lobacca’s
completely hidden involvement. He owes a life debt
to the killer and will spring him loose if he is caught.

##### NURSE SHIA SUNFELL

Shia is played as guarded, unhelpful, and sullen.

If questioned: Shia says: ”I don’t know anything,
alright? Why don’t you ask Kass Trobona? Supposedly she
had the hots for him, but I know for a fact that they didn’t
always get along. I was here at the time. I was assisting
Dr. Falstom in major surgery.”

\pagebreakNum

If pressed, with a DC 20 Charisma (Intimidation) or Charisma (Persuasion) check, Shia
reveals that she had been with Dr. Falstom earlier in
the evening for dinner, but she had not wanted
anyone to know, and Dr. Falstom told her to say they
were in major surgery all evening. The GM should
add disadvantage to the check
to represent Shia’s intention to remain unwavering in
her alibi.

If necessary: Shia may at any time come to the PCs
and confess to them her false alibi.

#### Office (Not on Map)

> ##### 
> The quiet office of Dr. Phobos Falstom and the late Dr.
Zarander is a relief from the busy halls and crowded ship
bays. Two desks stand across from each other, lit at once by
soft-light lamps and the jarring green screens of desk
computers. As you enter, Dr. Falstom slams his desk
drawer and rises quickly. “I’m sorry to jet,” he says,
looking somber. “Any closer to the killer?”

Dr. Falstom leaves after answering any questions,
with seeming openness but admitting to nothing.

Both doctors’ drawers are locked, and a DC 20 Dexterity (Sleight of Hand) check is required to open them.
Dr. Falstom’s drawer is empty, but inside of Dr.
Zarander’s is a list of names and species with
ailments listed next to them; the names crossed off.

A DC 15 Intelligence (Technology) check is required to
break into either computer. Failing this check by 5 or more should result in getting shut out of the
system without a chance at retrying. Dr. Falstom’s drive is
wiped clean (passing the check by 5 or more may confirm it as intentional), but
Dr. Zarander’s drive reveals a celestial map on the
main drive. The map
requires a DC 20 Intelligence (Piloting) check to be
read helpfully, revealing the map pinpoints the
location of worlds with major medical facilities.

##### DR. PHOBOS FALSTOM

Phobos is played as serious but sincere, mournful
but busy, sympathetic but powerful. The players
should empathize with him but his possible guilt
should not be downplayed.

If questioned: Falstom is alibied for the time of
death by Shia Sunfell. “I was in major surgery that
entire timeframe. You can ask Nurse Sunfell, she was
there. And Dr. Zarander and I, we are - that is, we were -
very close friends.”

If Shia’s alibi falls apart, he explains he was
embarrassed by the thought of the gossip that would
spread if people knew about their dinner.

If necessary: Falstom may at any time inform the
PCs of the following: “I just need to tell you: First
Officer Kass Trobona, she and Inigo - Dr. Zarander - they
were dating, and, I know it wasn’t always good. I would
try to find out what it is she knows.”

\columnbreak

#### Quarters

> ##### 
> There’s nothing of note here in the crew’s quarters - a
search of rooms reveals nothing - except a few nameless
crew members stand gossiping by the common room caf
machine. One might insert oneself into their petty, loose
conversation... or eavesdrop on it.

If the PCs attempt a DC 15 Charisma (Performance)
check to gossip or a DC 20 Dexterity (Stealth) check to
eavesdrop, success may reveal such details as: Dr.
Zarander had been dating First Officer Kass Trobona;
Nurse Shia was hot for at least one of the doctors;
Corporal Dulovic had been seen recently arguing
with Dr. Zarander; and the Imperial officer in the
brig is a legendary soldier of the Empire. Which of these details are revealed is left to the GM's discretion; use this to cover gaps your players have not explored or to nudge them in the direction of another clue. The
nameless crew members should be played as wary,
guarded, and potentially hostile.

### Off to Cortica-3

The players should find that the clues lead them to
check out (or rule out) some of the characters on
Cortica-3. They should be encouraged though not
forced to make this trip; it is important that the PCs
make this choice, because it exposes them to danger.
The GM may need to make it clear that they need
more proof before charging anyone, even if they do
not believe the parties on Cortica-3 are important or
complicit. Captain Aurelius is great for clarifying this
in character.

The GM may also wish to delay a shuttle to the
moon, since this is a natural transition point from Act
II to Act III; this can be done subtly, or openly telling
the players that they should wrap up the bulk of
their investigative work on the *Merciful* before
shuttling to Cortica-3. Once the PCs return again to
the *Merciful*, the adventure should move speedily to
its conclusion.

If the PCs ask about a shuttle to Cortica-3, they are
encouraged by the Captain to follow this lead. He
schedules a flight with shuttle pilot Azalyn Kardal.
Once the shuttle is ready, the PCs head to the main
hangar, and the GM reads the following:

> ##### 
> In the main hangar, the *Merciful’s* RM-09 Alliance
Shuttle is ready for take-off. As you come aboard, a voice
yells back, “Yo! Sorry about the delay, bros. I hooked my
instrument check earlier. This old bucket of bolts is barely
hanging together. Buckle up, dude!”
>
> The pilot, Azalyn Kardal, lifts the shuttle out and away to
Cortica-3. The black rock looms larger as you approach,
ominous and dark, lit only by the lights of mineral mines
bored down into rich veins and deposits; and by the
flashing lights of laserfire trading between bunkered-in
Rebel troops and besieged Imperial forces.
>
> You’re dropping into an active war zone, and the killer
may have your six...

\pagebreakNum

#### Awarding XP

In addition to XP gained in combat, players may gain XP for any of the following:
* Significant Investigative Work (100-300 XP)
* Impressive Storytelling (100 XP)
* Impressive Roleplaying (100-200 XP)

## Act III: Killer's Gambit

This is the final act. In this act, the PCs should hopefully be able to put together the pieces and determine that Dr. Phobos Falstom is the killer. If they arrest the wrong person, however, they can still redeem themselves, as Dr. Falstom attempts a last-minute escape and the PCs have the chance to stop him.

### Drop Zone

In Act III, the PCs begin en route to Cortica-3. The
GM may remind them of some of the clues they have
gathered or may invite the players to recall details
themselves. In particular, they should remember the
clues leading them here: First Officer Kass Trobona’s
relationship with the deceased and Corporal Gentii
Dulovic’s argument with the same.

See the recommended stat blocks in Act II for Azalyn,
Kass, and Gentii, as needed.

If the PCs never gossiped in the Quarters and
never spoke to Abraxis, they still need to know about
Corporal Gentii Dulovic. The GM should narrate to
the players how Abraxis came to them just before
take-off and spoke to them about Dulovic.

Also explain to the players that they are gearing up
in-flight in atmospheric suits, since the air on
Cortica-3 is light and unbreathable.

Read the following:

> ##### 
> Your pilot, Azalyn, guides the RM-09 Alliance Shuttle
closer to Cortica-3 comfortably, as if headed toward a
peaceful field landing, not dropping in on an active war
zone. She wears a brown bomber jacket, bright orange
pants, and white tank; her straight black hair only comes
down to her shoulders, where her dog tags dangle as the
shuttle rocks and bounces. At her side hangs a lightsaber,
though few would recognize such a strange weapon.
“Dudes, how’s it all going?” she says. “What’s up with
the search? Any closer?”

If the PCs don’t have much to say, she simply replies,
“Right on, right on.”

If asked about the case, she says, “I’ve got nothing,
dude. I wish I knew anything about it at all, but I don’t. I
just fly the brick and drop the thicks, man. I shuttle the
troops, I mean.”

If asked about her lightsaber, she says, ”Oh yeah,
screamin’, right? My mama gave it to me before she kicked
the R-unit, if you catch my contrails. I don’t really know
anything about the Force; but I do, you know what I
mean? Like, we all do. It’s all around us... yeah, and I do
feel it, you know. But I don’t know how to work this thing,
man, I just keep it for the mind whoas. Hey, we’re here.”

\columnbreak

#### Reaching the Trench

As the shuttle lands, read the following:

> ##### 
> Azalyn sticks the landing with expertise. “Yo, you’re
gonna have to make a run for it. Good luck!” She signs
either “peace” or “rock on,” you can’t tell. From the
shuttle ramp to the dark trench is about twenty feet of
open ground, in open view of enemy fire. How do you plan
to reach the trench?

The intent of all the combat on Cortica-3, like the
space combat in Act I, is to get the PCs working and
planning together and to provide a few quick heroic
or cinematic moments.

In order to reach the trench, each PC will have to
make a DC 15 Strength (Athletics) check with disadvantage for
the planetary conditions, or another check if their
plan is extraordinary. Failure may result in taking
stray blasts of damage, or worse.

#### In the Trench

Once the PCs reach the trench, read the following:

> ##### 
> You reach the trench and drop in. As you make your way
down the line you pass soldier after soldier, some of them
taking direct blaster shots, others returning fire. Somebody
yells out, “Here they come!” and a squad of Stormtroopers
rushes across a field of fire to crash the trench.

A number of stormtroopers equal to half the number of PCs rounded up are rushing the area of the trench where the PCs are, and the players will have to deal with them using melee or ranged combat. For the other stormtroopers targeting other parts of the trench, there's no need to use full combat rules here--keep things fast and furious by simply describing the stormtroopers' assault and the Rebels repulsing them in narrative terms. The Rebels should finish off the last of the stormtroopers as the players end their combat with the ones nearest them.

\pagebreakNum

___
> ## Stormtrooper
>*Medium humanoid (human), lawful dark*
> ___
> - **Armor Class** 16 (battle armor)
> - **Hit Points** 26 (4d8 + 8)
> - **Speed** 30 ft.
>___
>|STR|DEX|CON|INT|WIS|CHA|
>|:---:|:---:|:---:|:---:|:---:|:---:|
>|13 (+1)|16 (+3)|14 (+2)|11 (+0)|11 (+0)|12 (+1)|
>___
> - **Skills** Athletics +3, Perception +2, Persuasion +3
> - **Senses** darkvision 60 ft., passive Perception 12
> - **Languages** Galactic Basic
> - **Challenge** 2 (450 XP)
> ___
> ### Actions
> ***Multiattack.*** The trooper makes two blaster rifle attacks or two stock strike attacks.
>
> ***Blaster Rifle.*** *Ranged Weapon Attack:* +5 to hit, range 100/400 ft., one target. *Hit:* 6 (1d6+3) energy damage.
>
> ***Stock Strike.*** *Melee Weapon Attack:* +3 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. *Hit:* 3 (1d4+1) kinetic damage.
>
> ***Thermal Detonator (1/Day).*** The trooper throws a grenade, choosing a point it can see within 40 feet. Each creature within 10 feet must make a DC 14 Dexterity saving throw. A creature takes 7 (2d6) fire and 11 (2d10) kinetic damage on a failed save, or half as much as on a successful one. Additionally, on a failed save, the creature is knocked prone.

At the end of combat, read the following:

> ##### 
> A final Stormtrooper is dropped by a blast of fire from an
officer, a dark-skinned, dark-haired woman with a darker
frown. “What are you doing here?” she barks.

This is First Officer Kass Trobona. If the PCs wish to
interview her, they need to do it here in the calm
before another charge.

If asked about Dr. Zarander, Kass says: “Inigo... We
were dating. Just a little while, but it was going well; it
had its ups and downs, but that’s pretty normal, especially
in close quarters on the ship. And he was acting strange,
lately; he said he was researching something, that it was
dangerous, and I know he was genuinely troubled by it.
That did take a toll on us. But... now he’s gone.” She turns
away. “It hasn’t really processed yet,” she says.

If pressed, Kass Trobona has no alibi, except just that
she was with the troops, training for their dawn
launch to the war zone on Cortica-3.

#### To the Bunker

If the PCs ask the whereabouts of Corporal Gentii
Dulovic, someone says to them: “I believe Corporal
Dulovic is holed up in the forward bunker on our left
flank. That’s a hell of a run, though. Good luck.”

The PCs should be encouraged to come up with a
smart plan for reaching the bunker; they can provide
extra details to the scene, if necessary. In the end, no
ability check is necessary, unless the GM deems it.

Once the PCs reach the bunker, read the following:

> ##### 
> You slide into the safety of the cold, grey bunker. The first
face to greet you is a yellow Zabrak with a chilling stare.

The Zabrak, of course, is Corporal Gentii Dulovic. If
the PCs interview him, read the following:

> ##### 
> “I’m sure people saw me angry with him. I’m a Zabrak; of
course, I’m always angry and up to no good,” he jokes.
Then he grows very serious. “But Dr. Zarander and I
didn’t exactly argue. I was angry with him. My brother,
Brakin, went to surgery for a shot to the arm and Dr.
Zarander operated on him. It should have been routine, he
should have been fine the next day, but instead he died
overnight in their care. I confronted him in public and told
him he murdered my brother, though of course I had no
proof; I was just so angry. He said nothing back to me at
the time, but he looked so sad. And just the other day, he
actually came to me, and said “I think I know what went
wrong with your brother.” And he promised me he would
sort it all out.” Dulovic’s helmet fogs with emotion.

If asked about his whereabouts, Gentii says he has
buddies he lifted with through those hours in the
ship’s gym, prepping for their dawn launch.

If the PCs are slow to leave, First Officer Trobona
reaches the bunker on the comm, relaying a message
from the *Merciful* requesting the PCs’ prompt return.

The GM may ask the PCs to narrate their journey
back from the bunker to the landing site, or may
narrate it themself. As they leave, read the following:

> ##### 
> Azalyn is ready for you at the shuttle. “Whoo, way to fire
it up, yo!” she says as the shuttle lifts up and away back to
the *Merciful*. The return journey feels strangely quick and
uneventful without the threat of battle before you, and you
are back before you know it.
>
> Then again, you’re surer than ever that the killer is on
board the *Merciful* right now...

\pagebreakNum

### Ticking Clock

Once the PCs reach the *Merciful*, read the following:

> ##### 
> Aurelius hails you as soon as you return. “Right, then,
come to the bridge as soon as you can, would you?” On
arriving at the bridge, the Captain sits you down. “I’ve
just received a long-range encrypted message from High
Command - they want a prompt arrest. Where are you at
with the investigation?”

Once the PCs relate their findings, Aurelius agrees
with their making an arrest, or encourages it, as
necessary. The GM will need to adjust if the PCs
have already make an arrest. After this, read:

> ##### 
> “Alright, then, chaps,” says Aurelius. “Make your arrest,
and bring the suspect to the briefing room. I will meet you
there and hear the charges and the evidence you have to
support them. It’s a sorry business, but I’m glad to have
had your help. Cheers.”

#### Giving Evidence

The PCs should make an arrest and bring the suspect
to the briefing room. There they are met by Aurelius
and two Rebel troopers.

At this point, it’s up to the players and GM to narrate
and roleplay the scenario as the PCs give evidence
against the killer. The killer does not likely admit to
anything at this time, although they will attempt to
buy time.

Once the evidence has been given, perhaps just as a
move is made to remand the suspect to the brig, read
the following to the players:

> ##### 
> Suddenly, the ship rocks hard. An officer cries out on the
Captain’s comm: “Captain, an unidentified ship has just
dropped out of hyperspace, immediately under us!”
Another yells, “Captain, direct missile strikes on Landing
Bay B; the ship’s landed inside!” “Captain, the ship’s
magnetic field is compromised, we have limited control
response!” A foreign vessel is landed inside of Landing
Bay B.
>
> That same moment, the door bursts open, and a smoke grenade rolls in! In the confusion, the sounds of blaster fire and a Wookiee's roars can be heard. When the smoke clears, the two Rebel soldiers are dead, and the suspect is gone!
>
> Aurelius breathes: “The killer. Landing Bay B. Stop him?”
He starts barking orders on the comm to the engineers,
and heads for the bridge to bring the ship back online.

<div class='descriptive'>
 
 ##### Keeping Time
 Use the following table for a recommendation
of how many smuggler goons the PCs face in the final
combat, based on their speed of investigation:
* PCs generally fast and accurate: They face
Falstom, Lobacca,
and thugs equal to PCs, minus 1.
* PCs unimpressive: Add another two thugs.
* PCs very slow: Add a further two thugs.
 
 </div>

The GM should allow the players to narrate what, if anything, the PCs
did in those few seconds.

If the PCs did not arrest Dr. Falstom, skip the second paragraph of the narration above; Lobacca joins Falstom in the landing bay instead.

#### Showdown!

If the PCs rush to Landing Bay B, read as follows:

> ##### 
> As you enter the bay, sparks fly and sirens scream. The
once empty, quiet hangar is filled with smoke and light. A
Firespray-31-class attack and patrol craft is parked in the
center of the bay, its ramp extended, multiple nasty-looking thugs surrounding the ship with nasty-looking
blasters and vibroweapons. Striding toward the ship,
stopping to look back at you: Dr. Phobos Falstom.
>
> Several crates litter the bay, in the midst of on-loading.
Smoke and pulsing light obscure vision. But through the
smoke and streaks of darkness, Falstom opens fire...

Falstom returns fire, but his objective is escape; the
thugs cover his exit.

The GM may turn the odds toward or away from
Falstom’s successful escape, depending on the story
arc desired; the PCs should have a fair chance at
stopping him, though this chance goes up or down
depending how fast and accurate they were in their
investigation (see the table in the “Keeping Time”
sidebar). Whether Falstom lives to see trial or
escapes, he is now a deadly rival for the PCs; they
will have their work cut out for them tracking him
down or the rest of his gang, learning how far the
plot goes, and minimizing political blowback for the
Alliance while maintaining their own integrity.

___
> ## Thug
>*Medium humanoid (human), neutral dark*
> ___
> - **Armor Class** 12 (combat suit)
> - **Hit Points** 11 (2d8 + 2)
> - **Speed** 30 ft.
>___
>|STR|DEX|CON|INT|WIS|CHA|
>|:---:|:---:|:---:|:---:|:---:|:---:|
>|13 (+1)|12 (+1)|12 (+1)|10 (+0)|10 (+0)|8 (-1)|
>___
> - **Senses** passive Perception 10
> - **Languages** Galactic Basic
> - **Challenge** 1/8 (25 XP)
> ___
>
> ### Actions
>
> ***Shotgun.*** *Ranged Weapon Attack:* +3 to hit, range 30/120 ft., one target. *Hit:* 6 (2d4 + 1) kinetic damage.
>
> ***Vibromace.*** *Melee Weapon Attack:* +3 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. *Hit:* 6 (1d10+1) kinetic damage.

\pagebreakNum

___
> ## Dr. Phobos Falstom
>*Medium humanoid (human), neutral dark*
> ___
> - **Armor Class** 14 (fiber armor, light shield generator)
> - **Hit Points** 27 (5d8 + 5)
> - **Speed** 30 ft.
>___
>|STR|DEX|CON|INT|WIS|CHA|
>|:---:|:---:|:---:|:---:|:---:|:---:|
>|10 (+0)|12 (+1)|13 (+1)|15 (+2)|12 (+1)|11 (+0)|
>___
> - **Saving Throws** Dex +4
> - **Skills** Medicine +5, Perception +3, Technology +4
> - **Senses** passive Perception 13
> - **Languages** Galactic Basic, Mon Cal, Shyriiwook
> - **Challenge** 2 (450 XP)
> ___
>
> ***Techcasting.*** Falstom is a 4th-level techcaster (tech save DC 12, +4 to hit with tech attacks, 16 tech points). He knows the following tech powers:
>
> At will: *acid splash, minor defibrillation, poison spray, temporary boost*
>
> 1st level: *kolto pack, overload, stack the deck, tracer bolt*
>
> 2nd level: *electromesh, mirror image*
> ### Actions
>
> ***Blaster Pistol.*** *Ranged Weapon Attack:* +3 to hit, range 40/160 feet, one target. *Hit:* 4 (1d6 + 1) energy damage.

___
> ## Lobacca Chode, Anesthesiologist
>*Medium humanoid (wookiee), lawful dark*
> ___
> - **Armor Class** 14 (hide)
> - **Hit Points** 15 (2d8 + 6)
> - **Speed** 30 ft.
>___
>|STR|DEX|CON|INT|WIS|CHA|
>|:---:|:---:|:---:|:---:|:---:|:---:|
>|15 (+2)|12 (+1)|16 (+3)|10 (+0)|11 (+0)|9 (-1)|
>___
> - **Skills** Medicine +2
> - **Senses** passive Perception 10
> - **Languages** Shyriiwook, understands Galactic Basic but can't speak it
> - **Challenge** 1/2 (100 XP)
> ___
> ***Aggressive.*** As a bonus action, Lobacca can move up to his speed toward a hostile creature that he can see.
> ### Actions
> ***Vibroaxe.*** *Melee Weapon Attack:* +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. *Hit:* 8 (1d10+3) kinetic damage.
>
> ***Bowcaster.*** *Ranged Weapon Attack:* +3 to hit, range 50/200 ft., one target. *Hit:* 6 (1d10+1) energy damage.

\columnbreak

Falstom’s last words when captured, or over the
comm as he leaves the system, are as follows:

> ##### 
> “Rare body organs fetch a pretty penny and go toward lifesaving research. It’s a crime not to harvest and sell them;
and to harvest, well, some species need to be more alive
than others when you operate. But Dr. Zarander got too
close and learned too much. I’m sorry, but he had to go.
Research demands it! And the pay *was* good...”

#### Postlude

The PCs should have a chance to consider the crime
and its meaning and personal impact on themselves,
and what their thoughts are as to next steps the team
may need to take.

If the shuttle was not stopped in Act I, it got away to
warn the Empire, and an Imperial Star Destroyer
sent by Moff Dardano arrives immediately. If it was
stopped, the Rebellion likely retakes Cortica-3 and
the PCs might play a role in achieving that victory.

#### Awarding XP

In addition to XP gained in combat, players may gain XP for any of the following:
* Significant Investigative Work (100 XP)
* Impressive Storytelling (100-200 XP)
* Impressive Roleplaying (100 XP)

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        font-family: 'Open Sans', sans-serif;
        font-weight: 800;
        letter-spacing: -0.02em;
    }
    
    .phb table thead {
        font-weight: 800;
    }
    
    .phb table thead th {
        font-size: 0.875em;
    }
    
    .phb table tbody tr td {
        padding: .3em .1em;
        font-size: 0.8em;
        min-width: 2.5em;
    }
    
    .phb table tbody tr:nth-child(odd) {
        background-color: #eee;
    }
    
    .phb table tbody tr:nth-child(even) {
        background-color: #fff;
    }
    
    .phb .classTable {
        background-color: #fff;
        border-top: 0.2em solid #000;
        border-bottom: 0.2em solid #000;
        border-left: 0;
        border-right: 0;
        border-image: none;
        padding: 1em;
        font-size: 1em;
    }
    
    .phb .classTable h5 {
        font-family: 'Russo One', sans-serif;
        font-weight: 400;
        text-transform: uppercase;
        margin-bottom: 10px;
    }

code {
        padding: 2px 4px;
        font-size: 90%;
        color: #000;
        background-color: #fff;
        border-radius: 2px;
        max-width: 95%;
        word-break: break-all;
    }
    
    a:-webkit-any-link {
    	color: #000;
	}
	
	.phb:after { content: ""; }
</style>