intro ♚ april

[boardmaster]

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!

Comments

lux crownguard | league of legends | ota

[rememberher]

[A - K203 + SURROUNDING]

[ Lux was always the first to wake, well before sunrise and ready to meet the new day. So it seemed odd that, as light filtered into the room and birds sang their mid-morning melodies, she finally began to wake up. Her head felt hazy, heavy from what seemed like the hardest sleep she had in ages and, sitting up slightly, it only took a few seconds to realize she was missing something.

Where were her bed clothes?

Hastily rubbing the sleep out of her eyes with one hand, the other holding her blanket tightly over her body. As Lux looked around, one fact became abundantly clear—this wasn't where she fell asleep the night before. The room was surprisingly Spartan, and clearly meant for two people to share; thankfully, she seemed to be alone, for the time being.

Throwing the blanket around her, the blond launched herself to her feet, driven by a bubbling sense of dread and, more, blind irritation. Had someone slipped something into her food the night before? This hardly seemed like a Noxian base of operation, it was too nice. So then where was she? What sort of sick soul would take absolutely everything from her, clothing included?

Rifling through the chest at her bedside at least secured her something to wear besides her hastily-donned sheet and, quickly changing, she tossed the comforter aside before making her way into the hall.

Someone was going to have Hell to pay, judging from how loud she was. If there was anyone still asleep, or those who had yet to venture out to other places, that is. ]

[B - CAPABLANCA BOUND]

[ After a somewhat hurried explanation, and the doling out of supplies (when did a rodent become a communication device?), Lux was at least off the warpath for the time being. In fact, she seemed positively jovial, despite her temper remaining at a simmer internally.

Part of her was furious. She owed nothing to these people, knew nothing of the kingdoms of Blanc or Noir. In many ways, it wasn't her business; kingdoms should solve their strifes on their own, instead of forcefully enlisting the help of unrelated parties.

But there was the other that saw far too many similarities to her own home to stay angry. While it was not her style, the thought of adventure in a new, unknown land excited her. True, this wasn't her war to fight, but she was a hero, was she not? And she was here now, with a squeaky rodent companion in tow. It wasn't all unfamiliar territory, she could fall into line easily enough.

With a small tuft of fur and eyes rested in the breast pocket of her uniform, Lux wandered the deck of the Airy, doing surprisingly well for one who had spent most of her life on land. Seeing someone of interest, the blond leaned in, her smile bright and easy. ]

It's quite a view, isn't it?

[C - GRAUPERA'S WALLS]

[ This was not the scene that Lux expected laid before her. Those walls that remained standing marred by holes and vines, it was a hopeless scene. How would they be able to convert this back to a proper enceinte? This wasn't the sort of work that she was used to, but as a Pawn, it was expected—or so she assumed.

Moving her carrier to her pack, the older teen divested herself of her jacket, rolling up her sleeves and tying her hair back with a bit of leather. First thing was first. ]

We need to cut down these vines. Is there anyone here with a knife of sword?

[ And, after a moment, a thought. ]

Bottle the sap if you can. We can probably find a use for it later.

[ But who would listen to orders from a lowly Pawn, anyway? Especially one who looked so young? ]

C!

[hiryugaeshi]

[ Kojirou heard the word "sword." So of course he's drawn to it. How can he avoid where swords congregate, or where swords are needed?

But then he hears the details of what's needed, and... ]

That sounds like a lot of menial work. I certainly have a blade on hand, but surely there must be something more challenging.

[ He's a Pawn too, but it would be hard to tell from his attitude and demeanour. For one thing, Kojirou seems utterly unthreatening: An almost effeminate man who if not for his striking looks and twin swords hanging from his belt, would be utterly ordinary, Hero's uniform or not. For another: He's clearly not feeling grunt work. ]

Besides, I'm not carrying any bottles apart from my wine flask, and I'm not giving it up for vine sap.

[rememberher]

[ Ah, he did remind her of someone, but who? Maybe a soldier from Ionia? His appearance certainly seemed that way, but his attitude... Looking toward the much taller man, the blond frowned. ]

We were assigned to this job in order to help with reconstruction by any means necessary. It may seem "menial" to you, but this was what we were brought here to do.

[ Her frown only grew at his noncompliance. ]

Your wine is less important than something that could help the group at large.

[ Lux Crownguard: thoroughly unimpressed with your high and mighty personality. ]

[hiryugaeshi]

[ Assassin: Just a less drunk Yasuo. ]

Everybody has their specialities. I'm a swordsman, not a day labourer.

[ He sighs. Look, they said any means necessary, but that doesn't mean this particular hero gives a crap. He'll more than happily beat things up, and he's very good at it, but he's also bad at following orders. ]

A small flask like this isn't going to be much help for storage. Why don't you have someone bring a bucket instead?

[ Sasaki Kojirou: A pain in the ass. ]

[rememberher]

[ Apparently. ]

Yes, everyone has their specialty, but in situations such as these, that becomes irrelevant. Any and all resources need to be used to their fullest.

[ Despite being shorter than the man, she looks up at him with conviction, her stare steely and unfazed by his dismissive tone. ]

Or would you like me to find a commanding officer instead?

C...

[topkong]

[ Well! Someone's wearing the bossy pants today! Someone with a familiar voice, that also had a laugh that could cut glass, pierce hearts, and destroy the ego, superego, and id of a man.

Curiosity will kill the monkey. So, here he is. Standing behind her with his hands on both of his weapons--- the staff that looked very similar to the one that Yi had given him, crafted by Doran... and a banana. A banana. ]

... I don't think I'm properly equipped to cut things down.

[ Why is he even here, then?! God. ]

[rememberher]

[ Her laugh is welcome at parties, especially for clearing people out at the end of the night.

His voice didn't register at first, her mind too focused on the task at hand. ]

Then you should help gather sa—

[ Wait. ]

Wukong?!

[topkong]

[ Why does he suddenly feel a ping of anxiety, rising up from his chest to his throat? Like he did something wrong, and was going to be brutally destroyed for it?

... must be nothing, he's actually relieved to see her here, and it shows in how quickly he approaches and gathers her up in a big, tight hug! Wukong's so happy, even his tail is smiling! ]

I can't believe you're here! What a sight for sore eyes.

[ Then, the smirk. The patented Wukong smirk. ]

Are you offering your tactical opinions already?

[rememberher]

[ Surely he is imagining things. It's Lux, she wouldn't possibly do anything sinister.

She meets the back-cracking hug in kind, wrapping her arms around the fellow champ. ]

I can't believe you're here! I'm so glad, I thought...

[ It was a rough awakening, okay? She positively beams, laughing a bit and shaking her head. ]

Never mind that.

Of course I am, how can I not? This may not be my area of expertise, but I know what needs to be done.

[ Also that sap, while it seems useful, looks seriously gross. She'll let someone else deal with gathering that. ]

B

[mithrarin]

I wish that counted for much.

[The view just makes Dust standoffish, his arms folded as the breeze tugs his cloak and tail towards the stern. Can he even see the view from beneath that hat?]

[Probably, since he's facing that direction.]

It'd be easier to appreciate in different circumstances.

[rememberher]

[ Well aren't you a pleasant gent? Lux frowns a bit before letting her hands rest on railings. ]

But we don't have much of a choice being here, do we? We might as well make the best of it.

[mithrarin]

About a month ago, we all tried to appreciate a festival... and a war erupted right around us. [He isn't being grumpy without cause, mind. That whole incident, with innocent people endangered, had just left its mark.] It's hard to relax, remembering that.

[rememberher]

[ That would put a damper on things, yes. ]

True, but if you let something like that affect you so heavily, then your enemy truly has won.

B

[theskyenceguy]

[Ema sticks out on the Airy like a sore thumb, dressed in her bright white heroic garb. it isn't difficult to spot her leaning against the Airy railing, staring dully at the horizon. Lux's bright smile is at odds with this woman's gloomy frown, though the comment about the view gets her to lift her head and regard her fellow hero with curiosity]

I suppose so, if you're into that kind of thing.

[she folds her arms and rests her chin against them, one foot tapping the ground lightly]

Though I don't know how anyone in our predicament manages to enjoy it.

[rememberher]

I always try to look on the bright side of things. It's better than the alternative.

[ Her words were as genuine as her smile, the blond letting her back rest against the side of the ship as she took in a deep breath. ]

Just because you don't have control of a situation doesn't mean you shouldn't at least try to make the most of things, you know.

[theskyenceguy]

[ah? was that the sweet sound of optimism reaching her ears? Ema's grumpiness means she'd rather not hear it, but perhaps there's a small part of her. . . a small part of her that knows this woman is right. . . that lets said optimism slide without irritated commentary to counter it]

[she does, however, heave a heavy sigh]

I've got a couple of other things on my mind at the moment, unfortunately.

[just give her some time, Lux. she'll come around]

c. gently reaches for...

[praises]

I can help, if you'd like.

[ Allelujah's offer comes shortly after the younger Hero's query. Even with a bit more experience on his side, he's not one to mince his capabilities when he's in a position to assist. This suits him fine anyway, after the excitement of the last week, having no bones to pick with the concept of menial labor. Especially not when a more fortified position here will likely serve as a better foothold in this war.

Approaching, a lively foxlike Carrier prancing along by his ankles, he's tying his uniform's jacket around his waist and pulling an ornate dagger from his belt. Not exactly the type of weapon it looks like he'd choose on his own, but it'll get the job done. ]

Can you hold this? [ He offers an empty canteen to her. ] It'll be easier to bottle, with the two of us.

[rememberher]

[ Her name held no weight here, and that was something she had to get used to. Still, having someone willing to assist her was a breath of fresh air and, hearing the young man behind her, Lux turned, welcoming him with a thankful, shining smile. He even seemed to know what to do, falling into step. Good. This was good. ]

Oh.

[ Taking the canteen, the blond nodded. ]

You're right, that's a good idea.

[ Her small rodent carrier, who had been staying relatively out of the way until this point, spotted Allelujah's companion, freezing on the spot. Maybe if it stayed still, the other wouldn't notice... ]

[praises]

[ Thankfully for the younger Hero's Carrier, the most Rosalind does is give a happy bark, her fur fluffing up around the thick gold band settled around her neck. New people! She wastes no time in bounding up to get her nose in or around everything that she can. Allelujah flashes an apologetic smile as he reaches up high for one of the larger vines. ]

You'll have to excuse her sense of adventure.

[ Giving the network of greenery a solid tug, he cranes his neck to try and get a feel for where most of it has settled. ]

I believe if we drain one of the main vines, the smaller ones will be easier to collect.

c

[quaria]

[ The female Hero asked the right person. Setsuna is in possession of a number of blades, so it doesn't take long for him to unsheathe one of them. He picks the non-magical sword from his belt, keeping it safely lowered until they begin.

Keeping the essence of the vines is a good idea, though. Making use of every resource that they can get a hold of is the best way to survive in a world like this. Thankfully, he is also carrying a couple of empty milk bottles. Hey, it's easy to be dehydrated when doing manual labor.

And so, with his free hand, he reaches into his travel bag to slide those bottles out. He offers each of them to the girl in continued silence. ]

c

[rememberher]

[ Well this was a stroke of good luck, wasn't it? She took a chance asking this one, and look how prepared he was. It was almost a bit too fortuitous, and certainly unexpected. He didn't look the sort. ]

Thank you for your help. I appreciate it.

[ ...He wasn't much for talking, was he? That was fine by her, Lux was naturally chatty. Taking the bottles and setting them down, she took the time to look one over a bit closer before blinking a few times. Milk bottles?

Oh well, she had seen stranger things in a travel bag. ]

Wow, these look pretty convenient.

[quaria]

[ Sparkling milk bottles from the Airy! Setsuna would often carry a few to sate his thirst at any given time. He has a water canteen as well, but it's still filled... These would have to do.

When the girl thanks him, Setsuna acknowledges her with a small nod. He doesn't mind at all, so it's fine. They're comrades now, so they might as well try to get along. In the future, they'll likely end up working together again.

For the meantime, he'll get started with the "gardening" job. He starts skillfully cutting through the overgrown vines without making much of a mess. It helps that he is a Knight now; his enhanced strength has returned to him, allowing him to almost effortlessly take care of these tough vines. But once he reaches an area where he knows the essence would flow out of, he stops so he can look at her and give her a signal. ]

[justhief]

[Funny how the sky and the sea looked so similar to that of their original world. It's like they're in another country, instead of another world entirely.

With the luxury of travelling in a furnished airship too. They may have been forced into it, but at least Blanc is putting in effort into making it a little more comfortable.]

Its an amazing view indeed, but its better at night. The only thing that can make this more exciting is if you stole the airship yourself.

[rememberher]

[ He had her until the last part. As soon as she began to smile, that expression quickly disappeared. Even if it was meant to be a joke—and one should never joke about committing any sort of crime—it was in bad taste.

Lux sighed, wrinkling her nose a bit in dissatisfaction. ]

I'm not sure that I can entirely agree with you, sir.

[ Her tone was dismissive, a deep frown settling on her face. ]

[justhief]

[Oh right, for a minute Lupin forgot that thievery in general is frowned upon by most of the law-abiding community.]

Don't worry about that, I only steal from the wicked. Said airship I once took belonged to a gang of sky pirates who used it to rob travellers and other airships.

[Nothing like an adrenaline rush and the view of the starlit night sky to add to the joy of flight.]