pawnstorm | intro ♚ april

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intro ♚ april

WELCOME TO GRAUPERA

We’ve all had those dreams: you wake up on a table, to blurry, ominous images and the certainty that you are absolutely buck-naked in a room full of strangers. This is not quite it.

Instead, you come awake to the sun on your face. The soft burble of water nearby. The hustle and bustle of a busy street and the faint, fortifying smell of bread. You open your eyes and there’s no one there at your bedside, but there is what appears to be the end of the world happening just beyond your window.

There’s a crack in the world across the sky, the “sun” is the totally unnatural light spilling from that crack straight into your eyes, and someone’s left a neatly pressed and folded uniform at the foot of the bed that isn’t yours. Somewhere in the room, there’s a strange clatter like beads, the click of claws on the floor.

Something’s in here with you.

Also, you are naked.

ONE ♟ CAPABLANCA & AIRY

As much as Blanc’s capital welcomes its Heroes, new arrivals such as yourself won’t have much time to settle. Get dressed and pick up your weapon and Carrier, because sometime in the afternoon, all floor nannies and Carriers will broadcast an announcement by Commander Lisbrand. She delivers a brief greeting to their new members, but gets straight to the point: they will be headed for Capablanca and the open sea beyond, in order to restore the fortress of Graupera for battle with Noir looming on the horizon. All new Heroes are expected to report to the Airy at the Caissa aeroport on the 8th along with their seniors.

On the morning of the 11th, Airy alights on Graupera, an island about two hours away from Capablanca by ferry. From here, you can either help the navy with Graupera repairs or assist in Verdoni’s investigations and head for Capablanca proper. Heroes will be staying in the (in)famous Hotel Caruana: they say you can check in anytime you like, but you can never truly leave. Nobody will quite meet your eyes or tell you what it means.

Wherever you are, the Airy will remain parked at Graupera.

TWO ♟ GRAUPERA, CAPABLANCA SEA FORT

What was once a heavily fortified island rests a ways off the coast of Capablanca; it looks a little too much like one of the thunderclouds slowly swarming on the horizon. Graupera has seen many battles and withstood the ebb and flow of wars. Formerly the city’s first line of defense until it was abandoned after the Reclamation, its dilapidated condition is the current bane of the Blanc navy. Blanc needs to bring it back to its former glory before it can face a single warship, much less Noir’s fleet of magical cannons. Blanc’s government has no doubt Heroes will do a fine job at returning the fortress to its former glory!

A ♙ The great stone and iron wall facing the wide open ocean has seen better days and is full of holes overgrown with stubborn clinging vines; cannonballs used a lifetime ago litter the grounds. The vines are extremely thick and may tangle the careless beyond hope of escape, not to mention filled with a pungent sap that will seep into your clothes and hair for days. It makes a great adhesive, though? Conveniently, parts of the wall are strewn across the floor, so at least some of the cannon holes can be repaired with enough improvisation, desperation and a bit of spit. The rest need new material provided by our helpful Heroes in Option C. Furthermore, the lingering damage from a previous attack and old age have turned the floorboards weak and unstable. The wood creaks ominously beneath the mass of even a single average-sized person, so watch your step.

B ♟ You might want to get your weapon before you descend into the dank depths beneath the castle. Once you make it down the steep, slippery stairs, you’ll be meeting the gigantic, hostile rats that infest the castle cellar from top to bottom. It looks like magical residue from long-ago battles has seeped into both the foundation and its inhabitants. The cellars have become a huge warren filled with strange mana currents, and sometimes flooded with water. If you're going to start an extermination campaign, you may want to recall the magical residue: chopping off a rat’s head and limbs will barely slow it down. It will keep going for hours unless you either lop off all its limbs or pierce its heart.

If you manage to make it all the way up into the castle’s two intact towers (the other two are half-collapsed), the uppermost levels are utterly covered in bird crap. You’ll be encountering the kings of this castle: the unusually large, grey-feathered sea birds that have taken up residence here. Albatrosses, gulls, pelicans, even sand pipers: they all share nesting and pooping space here. The feathers of each bird seem to have taken on stone-like properties not unlike the castle’s walls. They’re extremely ferocious and protective of their nests, which are filled with all kinds of things: twigs, shiny things, coin money, Option C’s supplies, feathers of all kinds, and some completely ordinary tools that seem too small for human hands, and much older than anything else in the place save for the walls. If you look closely, you might be able to see a few baby rats scattered in amongst the eggs and the peeping chicks. They’re being fed, too.

You’re meant to be moving the birds out of the place, but you might have enough trouble just moving their offal.

C ♙ Don’t feel like dealing with pest control? No problem! Blanc will need materials for rebuilding and other supplies for the coming battle! Everyone knows how important it is for the fortress to remain standing, so Heroes will be provided with gadgets and weaponry that should make it difficult for enemies to penetrate the walls yet again. Word has spread that the Heroes are transporting valuable goods, though, so you might have to fend off the occasional hopeful man or annoying mouse (rat) who wishes to borrow much-needed material.

Of course, all this rebuilding will be for naught if you are not prepared to defend the stronghold! Ammunition such as cannonballs, bullets and arrows needs to be transported to Graupera en masse, pronto. Equally important essentials include first aid supplies and enough non-perishable food and water to last a small army (you) a month or two. You wouldn’t want to have to scavenge for rat meat.

No one knows just how long this battle is going to last.

THREE ♟ Training

It’s time for you landlubbers to learn how to swim! Commander Lisbrand won’t be tolerating any sinking stones on her task force. The upcoming battle will be fought on the sea so your instructor, one of Blanc’s many fine captains (when she isn’t intoxicated), will make every single individual who hesitates at the sight of the open ocean walk the plank. She’ll even give you a helpful kick if necessary! Once that’s over, she will show you how to steer a ship. However, wandering eyes that land anywhere on the inebriated captain’s assets will be swiftly and spectacularly dealt a large bottle of the harbor’s best swill right where it hurts.

Blanc has also provided training dummies dressed suspiciously like prominent figures of the Othellian underworld. Now might be a good time to branch out and learn about your affinities. Heroes who have recently been promoted in Rank might want to set some time aside for getting used to their new abilities, too. Power and responsibility come hand in hand, after all!

INFO ♟ Welcome!

Welcome to Crosscheck's April intro log! For any further questions, please see the FAQ or reach us at the Contact Us page. Have fun!

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

That'd be impractical. We'd need considerable authority to enforce an alcohol ban on Ji-chan, or other means to obtain considerable brute force.

[A lot of brute force, look at those muscles. Shinoa sneaks a glance back at Jiroutachi, remembers what she'd seen earlier, and looks away NOPE NOPE NEVERMIND.]

If Blanc bribes him into cooperating, everyone's happy! [except gilbert maybe.]

Hff, I guess we'll have to pop by a bar on the way to the Airy. Shouldn't be too hard! Sorry about the wait, Ji-chan.

[The pigeon directs Jiroutachi through the halls, narrating about Hero Hall and the history of Blanc. Shinoa follows idly, since one roommate is dragging the other along anyway. The exposition sounds exactly like what the bird gave them last month.]

[As much as he'd like to dodge the cheek kiss, his struggle is futile because his life is suffering.]

Why don't you hug Shinoa!!

[This strategy is destined to be a failure, though—the pigeon is already about to start the tour, so there's simply no time for that.]

They should have plenty on the Airy. But it's still...

[Still too early, but never mind. It's impossible to make them change their minds, isn't it?

He needs a cigarette. Now. This is just too much for his nerves. Actually, he remembers that he should have some of them left in the pocket and a lighter in another.]

Ugh, I need a break...

[Gilbert is saved when Jirou has to let go to go get himself a weapon. Which turns out to be a very, very long sword. He's hugging it with a hum before going over to Shinoa.]

Would you like a ride? Then we can both make Gi-chan cuddle with us!

[He's offering you the chance to help him troll Gilbert, Shinoa. What is your decision? Because he'll totally just lower himself down if the answer is yes!

This is totally not what Gilbert wanted when he said Jirou should hug Shinoa. Isn't that great?]

[She's tempted. Rides don't come by every day, but Jiroutachi's reputation as Previously Naked Man has not entirely faded, and she's not too thrilled to go near a guy whose silliness puts Shinya Hiiragi to shame.]

I don't know.... I don't know you that well yet. I only want a hug from Gil-chan!

[She says it unflinchingly, turning to smile cheekily at Gilbert. But at least to her merit she doesn't show any sign of being about to pounce.]

[Listening to their conversation makes him think whether the cigarettes he has will be enough. Probably not.

The two of them seem to be in good mood, at least.]

I'm not giving hugs to anyone... [Mumble, mumble.] I just want to get over with it...I can't believe I'm saying that. [Mumble, mumble.] Let's look for the Airy. We're done here, right?

[Awwww. Did you think you were immune to cuddles because Jirou's been trolling Gil, Shinoa? That's adorable!

And wrong.

So wrong.

Jiroutachi immediately gives her a BIG hug and a nuzzle to her cheek before just dancing off with sword in hand and carrier on his shoulder. Lalala~ He's heard the Airy has alcohol! He's been paying more attention than you think!]

Thank you, Pi-san! See you when we get home!

[At least Shinoa doesn't fly off the handle like Gilbert- she struggles a bit, clearly not expecting the hug, but only grumbles about it when she's let go. It's not.... bad.... but she's petty and so she's going to complain about it.]

Gross, that was a gross hug. I'm sure Gil-chan gives better hugs than you!

[Gil-chan doesn't even give hugs, but okay.

As she watches Jiroutachi dance away she glances to Gilbert with a question.]

Are we going to go with him to the Airy or let him navigate on his own?

[Y'know.... the Airy doesn't provide free alcohol, does it... if they manage to lose their teammate, Shinoa still gets to keep her money. And Jirou can do the dance of the newly-arrived Hero trying to acquire goods and services while penniless.]

[Have fun, you two. Gilbert just wants to stay in his Grumpy Land with no hugs forever. But is it even possible with Jirou and Shinoa around...

Just face the truth, Gilbert. You'll have to give in, sooner or later. Actually, he'll never say this out loud, but maybe having a drink or two isn't that bad of an idea (it'll be definitely better than smoking a whole packet of cigarettes?).]

So you are listening to us...

[But only when they're talking about alcohol, that's worth noting.]

Do you really want to let him go on his own? Just look at him...

[Believe it or not, he's listening to every word they say. Every single one. Including this part.

He does a surprisingly graceful turn on his heel to face them and waves at the two.]

When you're done talking about me like I can't hear we're all supposed to go! So let's go together, Shi-chan and Gi-chan! Besides, someone said she'd get me drinks.

[He gives a wink. He's not as stupid as he's pretending to be guys.]

It'll be fun!

I get the feeling he's not as useless as he seems.

[Hey, you've surpassed Shinoa's drastically lowered standards, congrats!

But as long as Jiroutachi proves capable of carrying out a job while completely wasted, then she has no problems with him being completely wasted. She'd much prefer a drunk functional person than a sober incompetent, anyway. Maybe that makes Gilbert the only one with values anything resembling a normal person's.

Out of spite, she stage whispers to Gilbert-] Pssstt! How long do you think he takes to do that hair up in the morning? [-before she proceeds to follow him.]

Don't worry your face off, I've got enough on me to get you a welcome drink.

You may be right.

[In Gilbert's case it's difficult to talk about any kind of standards, but let it be known that he's a bit impressed. Well, maybe more than just a bit.

He's hardly any knowledge to answer her question about their new friend's hair, but he tries to give an estimate nevertheless:]

When he's drunk or sober? A few hours probably. And it's my treat, don't worry about the money, Shinoa.

One more thing... [He turns to Jirou, looking quite serious.] Just be careful not to get lost. I'm not going to look for you if you wander off later.

[Excuse you, why are you talking about how long it takes him to do his hair? His hair is flawless!]

Yes you will! Because you care too much!

[Which is adorable.]

To the Airy! Ya!

[Apparently you need to be drunk to appreciate this sort of thing.]

[Jirou has a good point, unfortunately. Look at Gilbert offer to pay for alcohol he used to think is a terrible idea.]

Gil-chan, there's no need to be so soft. I can afford it fine!

[It occurs to her that she'd wanted to rearrange inventory before heading back to the Airy. This is a trifle annoying, but at least she'd managed to get to the room without interruption to dump her things..... guess she'll just have to deal with it after the Capablanca affair. Leaving Gilbert alone with Jirou would be very bad for the former's health.]

Not even going to test out your weapon? Or did we just not notice when you did it?

I don't care about you at all! We've just met!! [That's why he's tagging along, obviously.] And I'm not soft!!

[He's addressing Jirou and Shinoa respectively.]

You'd better do it now, since you're not drunk yet...

[He's not sure about his sobriety even now, though.]

[Doop. Doop. Pause. He looks at his weapon then lifts a delicate brow at them both.]

Do you think it wise, you two? You don't know what it is and you're my test subjects if I do.

[Wait, is this a serious moment? Is it? IS IT?]

There are training dummies around this place.

[The redirection is immediate, without even a flicker of the smile on her face. Oh no Shinoa's not volunteering for that.] And other Heroes, I'm sure we can talk one of them into it if Gil-chan isn't keen either.

And yes you are soft, you just offered to pay for something you were completely against a while ago!

[Serious moment? NO WAY, it can't be...!]

Yes, just try something on a dummy or something. I'm not fighting you either.

[Let it be because Jirou's looking much stronger than him or some other reason, there's no way he'll agree. However, at the same time, he's quite curious what he's like when he's not focused on alcohol.]

Hmph, I've told you that I'm not...don't argue with me. It'd be weird if you were paying and not even having a drink.

[Because he's going to keep an eye on you, underage girl.]

You two are cute but my ability might not work on a dummy.

[Coming over, he gives them both nice pats on the head. What adorable children!]

It's okay! You're both so very young! You'll still grow up to understand why I'm not testing it out! And I don't care who buys my drinks but you should keep walking before I just carry you both.

[He winks at them then goes...skipping...away. While still sticking closer to them.]

[She narrows her eyes. Something about the way he says 'you'll understand why I'm not testing it out....']

Do you already know something about it? Okay, I guess we don't have to test it out then.

[She had heard her brother call Guren both 'a genius and a threat' once- a genius and so a threat. Back then she'd been even tinier and of course had not understood, but the creeping wariness she feels now makes her think back to that comment. She doesn't like allies who don't show their full hand to her. Especially exactly how their loyalties are controlled- wait, why is she talking like her gross brother now???? Ew ew ew!]

Hm, [She mutters to Gilbert, hoping that it's enough to convey that their new roommate might not be as he seems. No more showing her hand now. Then she huffs, and increases her pace to keep up.] Guess drinks it is! And are you really gonna be so sweet pay for me, Gil-chan~?

[Gilbert's not sure whether he should say that he's not young at all or just ignore it, but he finds a golden mean and just mutters that Jirou shouldn't be so carefree. At this point, though, Gilbert realizes that his words won't change anything.

However, he doesn't mind Jirou not showing them his abilities—if it's something he wants to keep to himself, it's fine. They'll probably see him in action sooner or later, given the current state of things between Blanc and Noir.]

Are all...swords...just like you?

[It might have been one of the weirdest questions he has ever asked.]

Yes, yes, I'll pay.

[Even if she was against him paying a moment ago...he'd insist when the time would come anyway.]

That's like asking if all people are just like you, you know!

[Just saying!]

Now smile for Jirou-san! It's a fun day and you have a new friend!

[Which he's pretty much decided for them. They never asked for this and probably would never ask for this. He's so much of a handful already and they only just met him. Hopefully he'll keep to his own bed and not drunkenly end up in one of theirs in the future.]

It's fun to get dropped in the middle of nowhere, huh?

[At least this one won't die on her if he's the nearest ally in a fight. She's met plenty of other less-than-admirable personalities, so she's lowered her standards enough that Jirou will do. Maybe she'll think about training her Carrier to be a better guard animal, though.

Also, she's changed her mind about being nice to Gil-chan. All's fair in war and buying people drinks! He's offering to pay, after all.]

Okay then, thanks for your generosity Gil-chan~!

Well, excuse me...it's my first time meeting someone who claims to be a sword.

[He has been through some strange things, but this...no, maybe he really shouldn't be so surprised.]

Yes, yes, you're welcome...I wonder what should we get.

I am a sword though! I am a very famous sword from Japan! My master even died in battle while wielding me!

[He hums thoughtfully then flits outside. Like this is all just noooooooo big deal.

He seems to have a...very unique way of looking at the world apparently.]

Lots of people die in battle with swords or other things.

[Shinoa is not yet impressed by these credentials. This sword ain't famous enough for her knowledge, apparently, though the quality of her education is highly suspect. That might be why.

In the sunlight of the city streets, she spreads her hands in a dramatic flourish.]

Welcome to the capital of Blanc, Ji-chan! Your new home for however long.

intro ♚ april

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sorry for the delay, guys!

pffff look how late I am, man

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should we wrap this up soon?

yeah, sure! we can handwave drinking part or something? if that's ok with you guys

Totally okay! I'll go ahead and wrap it up!