pawnstorm | INTRO ♚ FEBRUARY

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INTRO ♚ FEBRUARY

WELCOME TO CAISSA

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 ♟ Settling In

Welcome to Blanc! You wake up on one of the beds inside the Hall of Glory. You might still be feeling a little light-headed, but sudden dimensional travel will do that to a body. You could have sworn visions of a fantastic world flashed before your eyes not long ago: monsters, magic, and a mission to save the world. You can't quite recall much beyond the basics, but could this be it?

Save your questions for later! The room nannies are quick to urge Heroes into their uniforms (with their beaks if necessary) and to point them to the pick-up locations for their Blanc-issued Weapons and Carriers. Hopefully, nobody but the pigeon’s watching you change. On the other hand, maybe you're the type to turn every roommate into a new friend before you even step foot outside the room.

As you make your way down the halls, you might notice strangely familiar faces around you. But don’t linger too long to chat—the people in charge of the armory and the menagerie have gone through many Heroes before you, and still have many more to go after you. NPCs need meal breaks, too! If you don’t make a decision in time, the random Weapons and/or Carriers they pick for you can be just a little odd.

And if you’re hungry? No matter how rich you were in your homeworld, you’re penniless now until you earn some colle. Thankfully, the Hall of Glory provides free meals to Heroes and those associated with them! Sunday’s breakfast and lunch are bananalicious and seafood pasta. A friendly visiting scholar may have a word of advice for you: “Beware the dining hall on Mondays.”

But you’ll barely have time for lunch before guards come and round you up. “For the parade,” is the only reason they’ll give you.

TWO ♟ Welcome Celebrations

Trumpets sound, cymbals clang and the crowd roars as the parade gets underway! What’s all the fuss about? Well, you Heroes were sent by the gods to save Blanc, right? Of course they’d celebrate! Smiling and waving at the citizens of Caissa from your uniquely crafted float might be a chore, but hey, they love you. Are you really going to let them down, or lose the spotlight to the fellow Heroes sharing your float?

The reception after the Prime Minister’s speech is like some kind of idol session, with Caissa citizens coming up to shake hands and welcome the Heroes warmly. Some are even asking for autographs!

There’s a lot of things to do in festive and lively Caissa, even late into the night under a light fall of snow. Sparrow Town is all lit up, ready for another festival next week.

While some shops are closed for the holiday, others have buffet tables or are giving out free samples to the Heroes. The food stalls here are way better than the bizarre cafeteria menu at the Hall of Glory! Why waste the opportunity to finally gorge on real food? The shop owners have done their best to impress, showing off their local cuisines proudly along the city streets: from the local hamburger joint to the exotic L'adderan curries, you'll find a little of everything to whet your palate. Your growling stomach will likely thank you for the food. … Oh, wait. That wasn’t you? You think the fish sandwich on your plate just sang? Nonsense. That just means you had a marvelous piece of fish bread. Please remember to visit them again sometime when you have the colle, okay?

Various stalls with games and activities have also been set up. Maybe you can impress the crowd by nailing an apple with an arrow or by sacrificing your friend(s) at the water tanks! An unusual Go-style stall offers something like fish scooping, but be careful: touching the fish with your bare hands will leave you feeling funny… Wow, you’ve never seen that color before! But whatever it takes to impress the children, right?

Said children might try and get you to dance in the falling snow. Better not mess up, though, because everyone in Caissa seems to be watching.

THREE ♟ The Day After

Hopefully, you didn’t sleep too late after yesterday’s celebrations! Or maybe you slept badly, since it felt like something was watching you…

The free breakfast that awaits you at the dining hall is… something special. Please enjoy it to your heart’s content! Remember: no food fights, and leave no leftovers! Nothing will save you from the chef’s disapproving mustache swirl if you do!

If you want to make money (to get away from Monday’s Horrors), there are now jobs up for taking at the Hall of Glory and the Poisoned Pawn! If there’s nothing to your taste, check back again every so often. Something new might pop up!

Heroes not in the mood to be errand-runners (it’s understandable, you’re Heroes after all!) can hang out in the parlor, read in the library, or express yourself in one of the Hall’s many studios or other rooms.

If lying back and taking it slow isn’t your thing, you could train or spar! Being summoned to a new world takes a toll on the body, and some Heroes have lost abilities familiar to them. Besides, it’ll take a while to get used to your weapons. Some of them might even be disobedient, backfiring at worst and unresponsive at best. Try not to hit your fellow Heroes (including yourself), or you’ll either have to find enough Heroes to cast weak healing spells or carry the wounded to the infirmary. While the snow has been cleared overnight, it’s still very cold!

INFO ♟ Welcome!

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

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

[If not for that terse reaction earlier, Gilgamesh may very well have taken up Setsuna's hand again and pulled him along personally. He was very easy to look at, his voice pleasantly soft. In another place and another time Gilgamesh would've invited him back to his palace for a steamier evening, but here...

Here he can only laugh a little at how overwhelmed he's become, how he stares at him with eyes filled with wonder. And Gilgamesh of course puffs himself up with pride, hearing the question that Setsuna doesn't dare to ask and answering it anyway.]

Indeed! I am the same great hero-king from the ancient texts. Isn't it marvelous luck that you've met me today?

[He lets loose with a boisterous laugh and waves at some of the doe-eyed women fainting off to the side. Well, this part he could definitely get used to.]

In any event, please, name yourself. I am eager to know more of a countryman, rare as they've proven to be.

[ It's for the best that Gilgamesh refrained himself. It may be predictable at this point, but Setsuna would've gone back to being hostile if the suggestion was raised. And getting suplexed in the middle of an adoring crowd wouldn't be good for anyone's ego. c': Especially in front of all those ladies.

Hearing the King laugh makes him more self-conscious, especially after he just gaped at him by complete accident. He chooses to keep looking elsewhere, to avoid getting caught off-guard by his words again. ]

I cannot believe...

[ To be fair, it's hard to believe. How can he be talking to a person who existed centuries ago? To be walking right beside such a legendary person... It's not something he can just easily accept. Although he's not denying the possibility, since this entire world in itself is absurd and illogical.

Once asked for his name, he very briefly looks down. ]

... Setsuna F. Seiei.

[And so the chase after the great tsundere of yore begins in earnest...

Gilgamesh takes no offense to Setsuna's incredulity. Though his nobility was apparent at first glance, in his humble opinion, he recognized that it took time for some humans to accept the strange and the mystical around them. And Servants were certainly very strange and very mystical, even stripped of their powers.

Instead, he just waves the matter off.]

Do not concern yourself. All will become known in time.

[As for the name, Gilgamesh puzzles over its origins, over its meaning, a moment from eternity. How wonderfully poetic.]

Such a name holds much promise, Setsuna. I could only hope you live up to it.

[ That continued confidence is almost impressive. Setsuna can only give Gilgamesh the same set of sharp eyes however. Indeed, time will tell. He would much rather discover it himself... He'll be watching this King... In his heart, he hopes that they would see eye-to-eye one day. Although distrusting right now, it didn't mean that he's necessarily closing everything off. He wants to see peace. He wants to know peace. Talking to different kinds of people will help him find that path. He's always been searching for answers.

He doesn't react much when that kind of expectation is pointed out at him. Maybe a mere movement of those long lashes of his, but not much else. Just like how Gilgamesh will prove himself in time, Setsuna will do the same. He doesn't need to say anything to affirm or otherwise. He's always been doing what he can... That won't change anytime soon. All he needs to do is never lose sight of himself... ]

Are you... trying to be my King?

[ Said in the most indifferent tone. Perhaps because they're from the same nation, much more that this person is royalty, Gilgamesh probably feels inclined to watch over him. Forget it, he wants to say. But doesn't yet. He wants to hear the King's reasons first. ]

[Setsuna may find Gilgamesh's views on peace rather interesting. And inevitably he will discover that this was more than a man and even more than a King that walked beside him. What Gilgamesh represented, the purpose he served, was much greater than that of a mere ruler. He was a force of nature onto himself and not even this world could take that away from him. Not in spirit. Not at his core, which remained unwavering in the face of strife.

Again, the more he watches Setsuna, the more he's intrigued. The amount of restraint he possessed over himself, over his expressions, over his reactions, was also impressive. In some cases Gilgamesh understands that this was a matter of trauma, but in others, it was the sign of a dedicated soldier, indeed.

All will become known in time, he claims, and for now there's nothing to do but wait for the truth to unfold. ...and maybe prod it along a bit faster, too.]

Are you asking to be my subject?

[Setsuna's question had many answers. Gilgamesh goes with one that's teasing rather than outright boastful. In truth, Gilgamesh was already King of everything he saw.]

[ There is only more silence at that return question. It feels typical... There are many Kings who achieve their followers if they choose to become. Somehow, such a typical concept doesn't seem to align with this person's unreadable aura at all. There has to be so much more. What is it? How does it go... Setsuna feels a lingering regret on the fact he didn't read enough about ancient history, but it couldn't have been helped. He didn't have such a luxury.

Not that it matters much. He'd much rather get to know a person by watching them. Now, he has a chance at a first-hand experience on conversing with an ancient King. Assuming he isn't a mad man simply addressing himself as so, but he trusts that isn't the case! He does wonder how this person handled his subjects in the past, but he wouldn't be one to merely find out. ... No, he will never be one anymore. He's completely finished with those trying to rule over him... No matter if they were Kings or Gods, he will continue to deny them. The answer remains the same even if it's thrown back at him. ]

... I will continue to live my own way. With my own will.

[ If their paths cross, so be it. But he wouldn't chase him or anyone should their paths differ. Simple as that. ]

[It is perhaps the most pleasing answer Setsuna could have given. His subjects were not weak people, easily pushed about by phrases like "because I said so" or "because this is the way things are". Even if he reigned over them absolute, even if he owned their possessions and their property, they were hard-working and independent, entirely capable of living as they were. Proud of their strength and proud of their sense of purpose, as Setsuna sounds now.

In recognition of this, Gilgamesh dips his head. It is brief, easily excused as incidental, but a show of respect all the same.]

Then I suppose that answers that.

[Gilgamesh could press further on the matter, but he won't. Pausing before one shop in particular, he pushes the door open and waits for Setsuna. After you, his body language seems to be saying. The unmistakable scent of tea wafts from inside, and the soft chatter of conversation can be heard. This was their stop, apparently.]

[ ... Really? Knowing that answer satisfies the King, Setsuna's respect for him may have increased just now. Respecting the will of others, he believes, is one important competent of peace after all. But it's still too early to be able to tell. He can only hope that this blooming respect will continue to flourish. As much as possible... he'd rather not end up crossing swords one day.

The small gesture surprises Setsuna, too. Who knew such an egoistical-looking person is familiar with humility? He's quiet as he watches the head dip, but at least he didn't avert his eyes again. It's enough as acknowledgement.

Once they've made it to the tea shop, Setsuna turns to momentarily pick up his weapon. It's folded like a stroller bag at the moment, so he's aiding the wheels to climb the small steps to the shop interior. When finished, he sets it aside for now and watches the King. He'll let him decide where to sit... Those expecting eyes indicate that he doesn't mind where they go. ]

[Gilgamesh would crush the will of anyone, if it became necessary. Those same people he ruled, he delivered judgment upon without hesitation. Murderers were put to the sword. Thieves lost their hands. So it might be said that Setsuna was the exception and not the rule, and that he too would be subject to Gilgamesh's crueler whims if he aggravated him in any way.

Setsuna would come to learn, if nothing else, that the whims of this King were volatile—and that any apparent charisma he displayed often masked a much darker nature, evident only in those demonic red eyes. Such was the nature of the great Gilgamesh. Such was the nature of one so arrogant they acted however they pleased without fear of consequence. In reality, the sort of person Setsuna would loathe if he knew the deeper truth.

Gilgamesh glances around the shop and, in all things, makes a quick and decisive choice.]

The corner will do.

[Isolated, quiet, perfect for more intimate discussion. Gilgamesh looks to the counter, then back to Setsuna, expectant.]

I will order for you. What kind would you like?

[ History has always been cruel. It's rather sad that humans never learn from it... Setsuna has always wondered of that. Why do people keep repeating simple mistakes? He wanted to understand why people hurt others. Perhaps he would hear answers that will not satisfy him, but that's part of the long quest of understanding. One day... No matter how long it takes, he'll keep reaching for it.

Anyway...! Setsuna was actually going to pass ordering anything. He didn't have any colle with him... He only came along to seek his inquiry. But he realized, right, none of them has any money. ~~This slow idiot.~~ That means Gilgamesh is in the same position!! It's likely because of today's festival that most is provided free for the Heroes today. They didn't have anything to hold back on as a warm welcome by the locals. ... As he thought of that, a mug of a hot drink does sound nice on such a cold winter day. ]

... Hot milk is enough.

[ Once everything is settled, an appreciative nod is given. Then he turns, wheeling his weapon along to head to the corner table. ]

[That's a bit childish, isn't it? But Gilgamesh, for once, keeps his judgments to himself; he was quickly finding that a subdued demeanor seemed to wrest more of a reaction from him. And, honestly, he's a bit winded from running around in the cold snow, so maybe he could stand to take a page out of Setsuna's book and chill out.

Not that it would last long, given his inexorable level of energy, but long enough for some more dialogue with the young man. He nods and trots to the counter, chatting briefly with the workers before putting in the order: hot milk and cinnamon tea. Not a single cent to his name, no, but Gilgamesh came prepared to sweet talk if necessary.

...thankfully, he makes no such fool of himself. A few minutes later, he joins Setsuna in the corner and slides him his mug of milk.]

I must admit that alcohol suits me best, as far as drinks go. Still, I find tea pleasing when with proper company.

[On second thought, maybe he'd be better off with a beer. Ah, well. Gilgamesh sips at his tea with a sigh.]

How familiar are you with the concept of mana? The story you seek begins there.

[ "I find tea pleasing when with proper company" ... Setsuna wonders if that was a compliment. He's indifferent either way, but he does wonder what he did to cause that. He certainly didn't expect it; to think that he caused an actual King to hold back on both a vice and a luxury. It's more likely to be a whim, he knows but. He has gloomy memories over alcohol due to people from home, so the presence of alcohol wouldn't bring a decent reaction out of him. He'd much rather not get involved with it.

After the hot milk arrives, Setsuna reaches out to hold the mug with two hands. He likes the warm sensation enveloping his palms, it's pleasant considering the weather. He wants that sensation to last a while... So he doesn't reduce an amount from the mug just yet. He's not looking at the King beside him now, but he's undoubtedly continuing to listen to him speak. He stares at the tiny ripples of milk as he does so. ]

Beyond the general term, I do not know much... It is not something commonly said in my world.

[It's an explanation he's given many times before and will undoubtedly have to give many times more. In a way, he envies humans that have had nothing to do with magic; even being someone comprised of it, at least once upon a time, he finds it needlessly complex and magi themselves thoroughly loathsome creatures. Simply put, life was simpler without it. He just never had a choice but to embrace it, with his nature as a Heroic Spirit.

Gilgamesh thinks a moment on where to begin. Well, where else but with the basics, right?]

Mana powers everything. It exists in trace amounts in all living beings, in the air, the land, and even the sea. It keeps the world turning and can often act in mysterious ways. Even if you were unaware of it in your world, it likely played a role all the same, right under your nose.

[Another thoughtful taste of his tea before he continues, eyes sharpening the slightest degree.]

Here, it appears to function as a similar power source. If you were ignorant to it before, you cannot afford to be now. Mana now exists in you too.

[ It feels surreal to hear terms like these... Setsuna is someone who is well-adjusted with logic and science, thus hearing such fantastical terms are causing him to unconsciously frown. However, he doesn't say anything against it because he knows that this is the current reality. Although he can't grasp the concept right away, the proof is before his very eyes. And he felt it, too.

Mana is everywhere... including within him now as well. So what does this mean for him now? Certainly, the urgency to look up about these topics has risen. After his conversation here, he'll be sure to make time later on to further educate himself. It's not going to be overnight learning for sure, but it's all the more reason to be serious about it. He has to keep living on. In order to achieve this, he must do everything he can for that to be possible. ]

Can mana recover on its own? If this is the case, I will appreciate instructions regarding this matter.

[ There has to be ways to achieve that. If mana is within objects that can't move at all, wouldn't that mean it's possible to recover one's mana by themselves? Setsuna recalls how mana exchange worked earlier... But he didn't want to rely on someone else just to survive. If possible, he'd like to find a way to attain it alone. ]

[Gilgamesh reaches over to give the backs of Setsuna's fingers a gentle tap. It's a very brief brush, nothing too jarring, but it proves his point all the same: even the mild contact causes a tangible spark, a taste of what he'd felt out in the snow.]

Bodily contact appears to be the key. I tested the theory with you, and then again with the children.

[So there's his explanation for that. Not quite a belated apology, as sorry wasn't in Gilgamesh's vocabulary, but now Setsuna knows it wasn't intended to ruffle him. Not that time, anyway. His expression turns thoughtful as he appears to think aloud.]

There must be other ways to recover it. But I believe this world intends for us to cooperate, so it would only make sense that this is the expectation.

[That along with those terrible living arrangements... Gilgamesh sours to recall his earlier interactions in the day.]

[ Eyes wander to observe the uncharacteristically gentle gesture from the charming King. Setsuna is once again reminded of the sensation of mana exchange... It's a little similar to when he's in the quantum plane, but there's differences as well. In time, he trusts that he'll understand more.

There's something he noticed though; the contact he had just now is very brief, but it's significant. Compared to the amount of mana he received from the children altogether, the amount from a fellow Hero seems to be incomparable. It probably isn't simply due to the age difference. The mana of a Hero is indeed more powerful. But are they really... that special? Is this the reason why the people of this world need them? ]

If what you say is true. Then, are you too... Do you receive mana from me as well?

[ They called it mana exchange, but Setsuna doesn't feel like he lost anything from it. No, he only felt like he gained. If it's an exchange however, it's probably safe to assume that the other party receives it as well. But he wants a vocal confirmation.

It can't be helped if they're forced to work together. He won't complain. But he at least wants to make sure that he isn't the only one who can keep taking... He wants to extend the same amount of help to those who assist him. ]

[Gilgamesh's lips curl up, wryly.]

Before coming here, I was already a being that fed upon mana. It's a situation I'm quite accustomed to.

[Although he wasn't accustomed to many other things someone like Setsuna might find mundane. Things like hunger, and temperature, and thirst. They affected him now as they hadn't for millenia and the adjustment was difficult, along with the loss of his Gate and many other powers that set him apart.

It was enough to make him very unhappy, if not for that iron-clad spirit of his. Indeed, he was a charming King, a great King no matter what this world stripped of him. A King who believed utterly in his own legend, living solely by his own will and no one else's. In the end, it was the sort of powerful sentiment that drew them together.

Gilgamesh rests his hand on the table, palm facing up, and offers to Setsuna:]

Give me your hand and I will show you.

[It's another test, in a way. But it's also a pretty transparent excuse to touch him again.]

What?

[ A being that fed upon mana... Isn't that given, seeing as what they are right now? In order to make it through this world, that is what this King told him: they need mana. So what did this mysterious person actually mean? Setsuna couldn't figure it out from that mere statement. Though... it's almost as if he's describing himself as a parasite.

Observing more gestures from the young man, Setsuna slowly lowers the mug eventually. Especially after hearing the next set of words. He hesitates for a moment, as he's still not quite used to the concept. To think he needs to hold people's hands just to survive... But if it's what's necessary, then he couldn't complain. But it's fine for him to be skeptical for a while longer, isn't it? It's all very hard to accept.

At first, Setsuna doesn't move. It's as if he's not going to respond to it. He hasn't let go of the mug... But a few seconds later, one hand leaves the object and trails over softly. His hand is curved a bit, as if he's ready to close it into a fist should he change his mind. Once above the King's hand, he opens that hand modestly. However, it pauses once more. ]

Do... you not think it's faster if you were to say it?

[ Sigh. But he's the one asking... He shouldn't be rude. So albeit reluctantly, he finally gives in to the request. He lowers his hand, allowing his fingertips to contact with that open palm awaiting him. ]

[Parasites were exactly what he meant. Monsters. Bloody ghosts, many of which were bent after vengeance. Heroic Spirits, despite their namesake, often were not very heroic at all. They leeched off their Masters, they hurt people as it pleased them, and they existed in the world only through a contract against God. What Gilgamesh really should've said was before coming here, I was already something wicked.

But of course Gilgamesh chooses to conceal that, as well, continues to tease Setsuna through smiles that appear soft but are really quite hungry underneath. The more time he spends with him, the more he wants him, wants more than just held hands and shy glances. That was worth testing, too... just how far the mana transfer could go.

Yet one would never guess at those darker thoughts now. His fingers curl around Setsuna's, provide shelter. The warmth from earlier returns, snaking through their bodies, reaching through their limbs. And Gilgamesh illustrates what he means: his eyes shut and it is easy to tell he looks energetic and content with the flow of mana.]

This hand of yours... it's fought before.

[Gilgamesh traces over the little lines, the tiny ridges in his palm. He says nothing more on the matter. He may not need to.]

[ Despite how Setsuna appears agreeable, that is merely the surface as well. Although their hearts differ, they both conceal darker secrets. And while there might not be a wall around him right now, that didn't mean that he wouldn't cast one around him at any given time. The distant pair of irises, covered by those lashes of his, indicate just how far away he actually is. His cold aura wordlessly speaks for him, a silent entity that emanates the words: don't come near me. After spending time with this young Meister, one will be able to tell that he draws a fine line between cooperation and trust. He didn't have a problem working with anyone if that's what is necessary, but the latter is an entirely different subject.

Thus, in this situation, the young Meister has regarded it as a necessity. The sensation of mana exchange continues to feel warm, perhaps too warm that it's unsettling. Everything about this doesn't suit him at all. Through this physical contact, Setsuna directs his faraway gaze to momentarily spare them to the King's own set of eyes... Wanting to see how this interaction affects him. It's then that he's able to tell; witnessing those relaxed set of sealed eyes gave him the answer. So then... it's true. The two of them are equally benefiting from this gesture. If that's the case, he didn't have to feel much guilt when he would need to ask someone for it in future scenarios. ]

... You have already noticed it.

[ Said matter of factly. Setsuna didn't fail to notice that Gilgamesh already scoped him out a while back, so he doesn't understand why he's pointing that again. He wanted to correct him though, because it isn't just "fought." No, he still is. He's still fighting. Especially now more than ever, arriving in a new world with the shadow of war fast approaching. ]

What of you. What do you fight for?

I fight because I must.

[When his eyes open again, they are vivid, alert, much sharper than before. They are eyes of one who hunts, and was hunted in turn. They are eyes that have killed, eyes that have targeted and by targeted by others. While it was true that Gilgamesh could be a very lazy King, he was no less a Servant than his kin, no less shackled to the battlefield than the ones he claimed to rule over.

Setsuna may have met royalty before, but none like Gilgamesh—none who wore the armor of a being born to do battle, endlessly, for as long as they were bound to a higher power. A hero-king that fought as well as ruled. This was indeed the Gilgamesh of legend, who built the walls of Uruk with his bare hands and so defended it much the same way.

And in this moment, he speaks as Setsuna does: distant, cold, and worn at the edges by ceaseless bloodshed.]

I fight because I am compelled; because it gives me life; because it gives me purpose. I fought before you were born and I will fight long after you are dead. I fought at the beginning of the world and I will fight at its end. I fight forever, because that is the way of my world, of any world, for all eternity.

[Gilgamesh pulls his hand back with the faintest of grins. It is a little sad, a little faraway. Acknowledging the endlessness of his own existence.]

So another war has begun. So humanity fails to learn from its sins. I, Gilgamesh, will act as that agent of order, until everything comes to a close.

[ Respectable and fearful at the same time. Yet underneath that layer lies loneliness. Such is the fate of warriors who will not recognize tomorrow. Setsuna's eyes momentarily shed sympathy. ... He felt so, as he used to feel that way. It was prior to achieving his current state. He used to be in such a mess. If it weren't for his allies, his Princess, he wouldn't be the person he is today. He would've continued to be a sad excuse of a boy who lived and fought blindly. All for damn nothing. But he's moved past that.

This person, however... It seems his majesty Gilgamesh extends beyond his imagination. What exactly happened for this ancient King to be saying such things? In Setsuna's world, his story is over. It's been so long that it feels like a fairy tale now. But to hear this person's story before him completely disintegrates the history books that he's read in the past. It's as if the book has never closed at all. A life in fighting... He realizes that. He believes in that. They fight because their wishes can only be attained through such methods. When one desires peace, they must fight for peace. At least, that's what he used to think. It isn't enough to simply say so now. ... He's a completely different person from now and then. ]

King. Do you say those words from your own will, or from someone else's will?

[ "Because I am compelled...", "Because it gives me purpose..." It feels something is holding this person back. The sensation can only grow after he notices the hint of sadness behind that fake grin. He shifts his seating position, properly facing the man now.

He wants him to be honest, but he knows he can't compel such a thing. He's free to lie about it, but he believes he'll be able to see through such a farce. His large, curious eyes aim for the ones across him. ... There's so much more to that untold story. ]

[The path of the King was a lonely one. The King must isolate himself. The King must stand apart. The King must rule above and beyond his subjects. The King employs no such vassal, no confidant, no soldier and no knight to do his bidding. He acts only in his own stead, by his own power, from his own will.

In life, that had been the truth. Since then, much had changed. Much hadn't. Setsuna seeks an answer that Gilgamesh has explicitly avoided, not out of any sense of embarrassment or shame, but because it would embroil him needlessly. He had been gauging the conversation, poking at his interest, yet never too much. If he so desired, he could walk away right now. If he so desired, they would never have to speak again. His walls could remain untouched. He could continue walking along his own path, with Gilgamesh left far behind.

But because he asks, Gilgamesh assumes that it is intentional, that he is trying to understand. And despite himself, he's drawn in by those eyes—eyes that tell a story he wants to hear, too. Picking at him has been a fun challenge; he won't give up now if there's more promised around the bend.]

I died long ago and passed on as a Heroic Spirit.

[That, in itself, sums up everything. But he goes on.]

A sacred artifact known as the Holy Grail bound me to its power and incited an endless war, between Masters and Servants. The winner of this war may be granted one wish, any wish, that their heart desires. Though I may be killed, I am returned to life again and again through this cycle.

[It's an uncomfortable situation, to be sure, and Gilgamesh retreats to his tea, letting Setsuna digest it. It's an indirect answer to his question, that of course it wasn't from his own will, that he had none to speak of now, but not even Gilgamesh acknowledged that on any direct level. Rather, he opposed it, with every fiber of his being.

Gilgamesh slams his cup down with a little more force than necessary and that may also speak volumes to his feelings.]

I am ever in control of myself and my own destiny. My will is absolute. But the reality of the Grail holds true for us all.

[ Heroic Spirit? Holy Grail? These are terms that Setsuna has never heard of before. Listening to the explanation, he can only piece out the basics... It's still hard to comprehend, but he believes he has a grasp of the gist. It appears that this so-called Holy Grail has enough worth to be fought over, by these people called Masters and Servants. But what's a Heroic Spirit, exactly? Judging from the context, this King's position sounds more like a Servant than a Master. Perhaps... that is the reason. Although he's fighting with his will, he's bound by the rules of his world.

That is... too sad. From how it is, the rest of his kind falls under the same fate. Why does it have to be that way? All for one wish, everyone is constantly hurting each other repetitively. The thought makes Setsuna's head turn away, closing his eyes as he thought of this. It's repulsive. Who had the right to control anyone's life like this? Was there a way to free the Heroic Spirits...? These are questions he'd like to ask, but doesn't anymore. He had no right to. ... He didn't have a place in a world that he doesn't even hail from. In that same vein, he had no right to say anything.

All but one set of words. ]

... I'm sorry.

I'm not.

[His reply comes quick and confident, as if all that melancholy hadn't preceded it. Gilgamesh doesn't look sad, or upset, or anything like bothered by what he's described, like he'd just reported the weather or something similarly mundane. He stares straight ahead and he does so unwaveringly, as befit a King.]

What could I possibly feel sorry for? My rule now reaches eternal. I enjoy the pleasures of the modern world. And even if I have left the sands of Uruk far behind me, my future stretches endlessly ahead. I am the great King, Gilgamesh, peerless, resplendent, everlasting and true.

[He neglects to mention the stagnation of that modern world; his wishes to cleanse everything anew; his boredom, his despair. If Gilgamesh lies, it is buried deep within those words. Yet it's nearly impossible to tell, as this was the surest face of his charisma brought to bear. He swells with pride. And he encourages Setsuna to indulge in that with him. He instills courage and strength by the virtue of his presence and that impenetrable ego. This was Gilgamesh. This was the truth of his character.]

Lend me not your sympathy. Honor me with your faith. For I will show it to you, Setsuna—what it really means to be a Hero.

[On a whim, Gilgamesh has decided. So it will come to pass.]

INTRO ♚ FEBRUARY

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