intro ♚ september

[boardmaster]

WELCOME TO Grantebrycge

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 ♟ Video Killed The Radio Star

Rise and shine, Heroes. It seems that today is filled with good fortune as the morning is very uneventful, aside from the monthly arrival of new comrades. This is the perfect time to grab your weapon, Carrier and uniform and use your time to look around Caissa. While exploring or catching up on the latest gossip, you might blow past the delivery carriages outside of the Hall of Glory, but you certainly won’t be missing the steampunk televisions and vending machines which will be set up around noon time by your lovely maids and butlers! The TVs are placed in every single bedroom as well as leisure rooms so you can enjoy your daily fix of popular cooking show Inferno Kitchen, primetime Cheoksan drama Summer Cantata or the Gammonian hit series Sport of Crowns! The vending machines can be found in the hallways and contain snacks and drinks such as canned mackin’ cheese (or as Noirs like to call it, Lovekraft Supper), Pooky, Cpt. Pepperoni, Mountin' Do, or Eight Up. You are free to come up with your own TV show or vending machine food items.

Thierry Toussaint My dearest Heroes! I hope today finds you well, and for once I bring good news! [ he laughs a little sheepishly. he’s dressed less formally than in previous somber declarations and his hair looks windblown, like he ran here ] As you well know, our recent victories and mostly importantly, a successful alliance with Gammon has brought no small amount of blessings: we have more resources, better manpower, and the invaluable help of our Gammonian colleagues not just in war, but also in advancing our civilization! And so it is my pleasure to unveil our new and improved broadcast technology— [ a pause, where he winks ] —do I look clearer to you? It’s a little harder to tell from this end, I’m afraid. You’ll be able to receive better, brighter and more varied content from our country’s talented producers. Oh… [ another, longer pause. teddy looks offscreen and then laughs ] I’m not getting paid for this, I promise. I don’t need any other motivation to be excited for my country, do I? In addition to the television programs, we will be helping with the release of newly developed vending machine technology that brings fresh and healthy snacks to the streets of our capital, and hopefully, beyond. It would be nice to have one for my office. I’ve mentioned our Gammonian friends, haven’t I? And I’ve saved the best for last: as a token of the friendship between our countries and all that we can do for each other, Gammon has assisted us in completing Platform 40— … 42 and 5/8ths, an instantaneous portal between our very own Caissa and Cochrane. I look forward to even more cultural and commercial exchange from all the way across the Rokirovka Ocean! And ah, speaking of exchange—the Platform has been completed just in time for you, dear Heroes. Gammon has actually extended another invitation to you: as national and international icons and users of magic, they would like you to visit their school of magecraft, Pigeonsblood, in Grant— Grant… [ … ] You will be able to reach the school easily through the Platform! Pigeonsblood’s Headmaster has assured me that you would be a great inspiration to their incoming class of aspiring mages; I urge you to take advantage of this opportunity. Gammon’s knowledge and mastery of magic, as you may have seen during your previous visits, is nothing to take lightly! And if you like what you see, I’m told Gammon would be happy to sponsor classes for Heroes at the school. I’m sure they want to keep the inspiration flowing, hm? Thank you once again, all of you, for making such wonderful things possible. I’m sure your achievements will continue to open doors, both metaphorically and literally, for Blanc and for yourselves.

Meet up with your chums, old and new, and head over to Caissa’s train station. Once there, locating the Platform 42 and 5/8ths is an easy feat. There are two guards standing watch and they will stop curious civilians from sneaking past them. They will only let Heroes use the Platform and as such require proof of identification. A Hero’s uniform, rank badge or a passport identifying yourself as such should do the trick. As the platform functions as one of Gammon’s checkpoints, you will need to pay a small fee of 200 colle to pass. Should you be a new arrival, the Prime Minister will suddenly show up and pay the fee.

Where’s the portal, you might ask? Take a deep breath, walk through the wall between the guards and you’ll find yourself in Cochrane! Heroes might experience some sudden vertigo or a near insatiable hunger for pork. Very minor side effects vary from person to person.

In order to reach Grantebrycge, Heroes must travel from Cochrane to Friedgood and then a little ways further. They are free to make this journey by foot, mount or train. Directions to Grantebrycge are vague but you can’t miss the landmark of the Great Face Cliff, a monument depicting the faces of the towns’s founding members. Poobin and Cemron seem especially stern as they glare down at anyone who dares to visit.

TWO ♟ Nitwit! Blubber! Oddment! Tweak!

Upon entering Grantebrycge, Heroes will be immediately be ambushed by swarms of eager students from Pigeonsblood’s welcoming committee. This committee consists of upperclassmen from each of the Four Branches - Achroite, Prehnite, Bixbite, and Citrine, and they are dressed in uniforms in their Branch color (pictured here in the Bixbite red). Officially, they’re here to help you learn more about Pigeonsblood, give you a tour of the campus, and show you what each Branch can offer you so that you can make an educated decision about which to enroll in. Unofficially, they’re there to try to talk you into enrolling into their particular Branch and some will ramble on about how their Branch is the best while others fight amongst each other to try to get your attention.

Once the tour is finished, the committee will lead Heroes to the administration building. There, they’ll part with you to attend to other duties, leaving you with a reminder to head to the center plaza in an hour for the freshman orientation party. Heroes can enroll in classes if they so choose and have made a decision as to which Branch is the best for them. It’s recommended as it’s free, courtesy of Gammon. If they enroll in classes, they will receive their class schedule, a permit for a uniform, and a key to their dorm room. Head to the university shops later to have them take your measurements!

NOTE: The rooming and class schedule are up to player discretion. If there is an official mission the professors will allow an absence - Heroes can’t save the world if they’re worrying about their GPA, after all!

For those who choose to not enroll in Pigeonsblood, they can explore the campus some more, but either way make sure to head down to the central plaza before the party!

THREE ♟ The Part Where They Rope You in with Free Food

Stepping into the center plaza puts you in the middle of excited back-to-school buzz. Several event booths line the plaza, all eager to get your attention. Some will try to recruit you to their school club. Others are simply there to provide information, such as maps of the school and information about the Four Branches. Still others get even more specific, headed by banners marked “THE TOTAL IDIOT'S GUIDE TO A SUCCESSFUL ACADEMY LIFE” and “GUIDE TO HAPPINESS: HOW TO NOT DIE DURING EXAMS”. A few generous booths will provide you with free food like “Splotted Richard” or “Bangers and Mash” to fill your tummy, as well as school merchandise, such as Branch-specific pens, face paint, flyswatters, and other bits of merchandise.

If those don't get your attention, the freshmen running your way definitely will. They're beyond excited to see a Hero among their ranks, and approach you eagerly, yelling things such as, “Did you enroll? Let's do our best together!”, “You're my inspiration! I hope we're classmates!” and “Please let me know if you need a tutor! I wouldn't mind…” Thankfully, their enthusiasm is brought to a stop by the welcoming committee, who make their way to the center plaza and hush the excited freshmen. After a heartwarming speech about youth and school spirit, the committee flashes their new classmates a bright smile and finishes with: “And now, it's time for some fun!”

What do they mean by fun? The freshmen are more than eager to demonstrate! Aside from the fun offered at the various booths, there are many magic games to partake in. There's “Splash Tag,” where players must use water magic in lieu of touch to play tag, “Air Races,” in which racers use psionic, gravity, or wind magic to boost their movement, “Hot Potato,” in which the temperature of the potato is increased with each pass until it explodes on the loser, and Illusion-based Pictionary.

A few steps away from the commotion, near where the welcoming committee made their speech, is a tall bulletin board. Various flyers are posted here-- club announcements, dating ads, tutoring offers, and of course, Pigeonsblood help wanted ads.

INFO ♟ Welcome!

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

Remember to check out the uniform contest for ranked Heroes!

Comments

[armorial]

That is all right. It does take time getting used to... This place.

[ Then she is right... Of course her instincts won't let her down, so she sees little reasons to be offended that she hasn't been noticed despite living in the same room as him. She inspects him for a moment instead before looking back up. ]

I am a fellow resident of that room. My name is Artoria Pendragon, but you may call me Saber. [ There's a small nod. ] If you are ever in need of assistance, you may call me.

There is also another man that shares our room. He's a friendly fellow--a little forthright, but he means well. I hope you can grow to tolerate him.

[picolin]

Aaah, I see. I do apologize for having failed to introduce myself -- I wasn't quite in the right state of mind to stay in place when I first woke up.

[ the entire package that saber presents -- the regal sound of her name, her level manner of speaking, the dignified way she holds himself -- somehow reminds him of the highest-ranking nobility back home. interesting.

serpico gives a small half-bow. ]

It is a pleasure to meet you, Saber. My name is Serpico. [ he's smiling politely as he straightens up. ] And thank you for your generous offer. I'm afraid I may need some time to accustom myself to this place, but I hope I will eventually be able to offer you the same.

[armorial]

There's no need to apologize, Serpico. It's natural that such a thing doesn't come to mind, especially with the circumstances surrounding us. Do take as much time as you need, but be prepared for any missions that our leaders may give us.

[ With a smile, she's glad that she's able to give a warm welcoming similar to the one she was given when she first arrived. It isn't peppy or filled with energy, but there's some optimism in it? Isn't that what counts? ]

I see that you've picked up your weapon. It's a beautiful rapier.

[ of course saber loves swords her title is a sword and her legend is symbolized by a sword ]

[picolin]

Are you very familiar with swords?

[ again, interesting. it isn't very common for women to be allowed open interest in weapons, where he's from. but it's not a bad thing. serpico looks back down at his rapier, gently touching at its swirling hiltguard. ]

It does seem to be a wonderfully crafted weapon. Though I must admit the talk of ... magical heroes having wielded it in the past is somewhat discomforting. Strange that the people wouldn't treasure such relics, instead of handing them off to strangers.

[ a somewhat lame laugh before he looks back to saber with a small cant of the head. ]

Does all this talk of magic and legends feel less strange, with some time?

[armorial]

Yes. I would dare say that I'm the best in terms of close combat back in my homeland.

[ And Saber isn't the type to boast, so that's all she says on that. It's a little hard to believe? With how short she is in comparison to him, but she does have a sword of her own strapped to her belt.

Ah... this topic though. She's not even sure how to answer because she, herself, is a figure of legends. If anything, this all seems pretty normal(?) to her? (more question marks). ]

To them, we are just as legendary as those that have wielded these weapons in the past. I feel it may be... a misunderstanding on their part, but those summoned here are special. I imagine that it'll settle eventually.

[ An important question comes to mind that would make it easier to swallow all of this. ]

Is magic a mechanic in your world?

[picolin]

[ 'best in terms of close combat.' it's said so plainly, as if it's a statement of facts. and from this brief first impression, she doesn't seem the type to have unwarranted confidence in herself. nor does it sound like a bluff. serpico does raise an eyebrow, but says nothing of it, only stowing away that information for later. ]

A mechanic ...

[ he echoes that phrase as little curiously, tapping at his chin in thought as he considers his words. ]

People speak of magic, of course. And not just in children's fairy tales. There are many who speak of grand rituals and special charms. But it's frowned upon. Or at least, the church does not look very kindly upon people who might be identified as 'witches.'

[ so he casually says, as if he's not a part of the whole witch-rustling gig himself.

honestly, he's already getting the sense that his understanding of 'magic' is in the minority in this place. but saber seems level-headed and articulate -- a good person on whom to gauge how his view might be perceived by the people here. ]

[armorial]

I see.

[ Saber doesn't seem to find it revolting or anything. She comes from a past filled with magic... She is an example of it herself, but she does know of what he's talking about--at least something similar. ]

I've heard of a remarkable woman, a saint, that was accused of being a witch.

[ It's a sad story, really. Even if they are from nations that butt heads over the years, she finds her martyrdom admirable. It's time to put those thoughts aside and help her roommate with some info. ]

Magic is widely practiced among heroes. We are the jewel of Blanc's army for our affinity with their world's mana. It may seem difficult to accept, but you will be practicing the art in some way or form in the future. While I'm sure a good number of us have never cast a spell in their life, there are some that take pride in their magical prowess. Same can be said for some civilians.

[ Is this too much? She stops talking for a moment. ]

I apologize if I am divulging more than expected.

[picolin]

[ she understands what he's getting at, and yet responds in a dignified manner. he can certainly respect that sort of composure, and he listens quietly to saber's explanation.

... he can't quite wrap his head around it, no matter how hard he thinks these things over. it's probably something that can only be understood through first-hand experience. and frankly, he doesn't have any strong desire to 'learn magic.' mostly, he wants to be away from this place and back in st. albion. but then again, when has he ever really had control over the events of his life? serpico inhales deeply, seeming to give the matter some deep consideration, before sighing. ]

It's a little unfair, is it not? [ he laughs, rubbing a hand at the back of his neck. ] I can't help feeling a little envious of people who already seem accustomed to magic even before arriving here.

[ good-natured and friendly but a little weak-willed, is the image he's going for. ]

Aah, but I'm grateful for your explanation, please don't apologize. It's a little much to take in, but my own lack of experience is to blame.

[armorial]

It's all right. I wasn't a mage myself when I arrived--I still consider myself a swordsman.

[ So there is always hope, Serpico!! She's trying to be encouraging despite being thrown into a different world. He seems to be coping well overall, so she's relieved that this isn't turning into some kind of pity party just yet. ]

It must have been a rough day for you so far. If you would like, I can escort you for the day.

[ Her posture is proper, even stiff, but at least her attitude is bright at the moment. ]

[picolin]

Well, I wouldn't wish to cause you too much trouble ...

[ said a little sheepishly, before he perks up. ]

Though, I'd like to ask something first.

[ as if it's something he just remembered, not something that's been lurking in his thoughts from the very moment he woke up. ]

Is there a way to, ah ... see if certain other people might have also been brought to this place? I asked the same of the helpful bird from our room, but it hasn't given me an answer.

[armorial]

As long as I can help you in any way, I wouldn't find it trouble at all.

[ There's a small smile as she nods.

But they can start with this question. She blinks a couple of times--it's a question that most would think of when they arrive to the world, but she has never stumbled upon it herself. ]

Unfortunately, I cannot say... Usually an army would have a roster of some kind, but I've never investigated it myself. I apologize--are you looking for someone specific?

[picolin]

I see ... This army does operate in a very strange fashion.

[ of course things wouldn't be that easy. serpico hesitates for a moment, picking over his choice of wording before looking away, as if he's a little embarrassed about what he says next: ]

You see, I was accompanying my commander before I awoke in our room. And while I've seen no indication that she was also brought here, I know she'd be most cross if she is here and hears I've done nothing to find her.

[ don't mind it much, he's just a slacker looking for his commanding officer so he doesn't get yelled at, no biggie. ]

She's a beautiful woman, with golden hair. Worn in a fashion quite similar to yours, actually. But on both sides. [ gesturing loosely with his hands to indicate pigtails. ] I don't suppose you've seen anyone who would fit that description?

[armorial]

[ She tilts his head as she listens to him. He must be a soldier then? She doesn't pry and instead does her best to visualize this commander of his. A beautiful woman with blond hair, two buns? Pigtail buns.

Her eyes lower as she sifts through all the other Heroes she has met and seen. The battlefield comes to mind and--

She shakes her head. ]

I haven't, so I believe you are safe for the most part. I'll be on the lookout. If she does appear, I'll make sure she knows that you have arrived and looked for her.

[ Since it sounds like he would get scolded or something. ]

[picolin]

[ he's not sure until he actually hears it, but ... that's probably the answer he prefers. that she isn't here, in this strange place, dealing with these strange circumstances. serpico gives a sigh of relief, and it's not entirely faked. ]

It would mean much to me, if you would let me know if you see her. Her name is Farnese -- Lady Farnese do Vandimion, commander of the Holy Iron Chain Knights.

[ but that's enough of that for now. ]

Ah, but I must thank you for your generous nature.

To be frank, I've been quite troubled upon finding myself here, but it's a great comfort to know that there are still those kind enough to help a lost newcomer.

[armorial]

It's not a problem. Since we are also roommates until you decide to purchase a house of your own, I think we can at least work together to the best of our ability.

[ There's a couple of nods, but there is something on her mind. She's assuming he didn't get too much out of the pigeon tour as he should, so she lifts her hand and presents the opposite side of the hallway, gesturing that they can take a walk as they talk. ]

Are you a knight?

[ Because of course that pings her. ]

[picolin]

[ oh. he really hadn't planned on troubling her, but if she's being so kind as to offer like this, then he isn't going to outright refuse it. serpico follows obligingly after her, still casting about a little as he familiarizes himself with the scenery. ]

In a fashion. I am enlisted with the Holy Iron Chain Knights, but -- [ a dismissive little wave of the hand. ] -- as the herald. I'm not particularly fond of bloodshed.

[ all technically true. ]

May I ask the same of yourself? You mentioned your skill with a sword, but I wouldn't guess you to be a mercenary.

[armorial]

[ She did promise to escort him!! It's best that, as roommates and comrades, they get along. It's a lot more than what she would have done during her reign as king. Either way, she takes him to the cafeteria. Food usually calms the mind and they can at least pick up a snack before they head out if he wants?

She picks out a savory filled doughnut for herself, then offers him the same. ]

I see... That is still admirable. [ Heralds are important and generally have it hard, anyway? She seems impressed and at home with this time of talk. ]

You are right. [ She ain't a thug. ] Officially, I am a King and, through my legends, the masses have given me the title "King of Knights". However, I consider myself a knight first and foremost.

[ She's a small girl, so it may be hard to believe. ]

[picolin]

[ he's still quietly scrutinizing his untouched doughnut (what is this strange crispy bread, what's in it???) when saber casually drops that bombshell on him. ]

... I see.

[ to his credit, he sounds more surprised than openly disbelieving. there's a pause while he considers that, and then: ]

I hope I haven't been unforgiveably rude in failing to address you as Your Majesty. Or ... would you prefer Sir Artoria, if you consider yourself a knight first?

[ he not asking that facetiously, either.

he likes to think he's fairly good at differentiating bluffs from truth, and she doesn't sound like she's lying. not to mention, if this is some manner of joke, he could do worse than playing along. ]

[armorial]

Saber is fine. My time has long passed, so formalities are not necessary.

[ A legend means someone is old and long gone, right? Saber is at that point where her titles mean little to her in comparison to her chivalrous code. She takes a bite into her doughnut and the nice aroma comes with it.

It looks to be curry. ]

Have you never had a curry doughnut before?

[picolin]

Oh. I don't believe so.

[ he's still a little distracted by saber's identity, but obligingly takes a small bite of the donut -- and squints at it. the texture and the spices are a little foreign to his palate. but not bad.

no wait, that's not the most pressing matter here! ]

I do apologize, but I may have misunderstood you. The way you speak -- [ 'is like you're dead' is just a little too blunt. ] -- is as if you've relinquished your position ... ?

[armorial]

[ She munches more of her doughnut as she looks up at him, then decides to look away as she collects her thoughts. She has only came to terms to it before she arrived here, so it still stings. It's bittersweet... Those memories are still vivid, playing like a movie behind her eyelids.

But there's no use mulling over the past. ]

Yes. Everything has an end, but life moves on. [ Which means her reign, her "death". It's actually complicated with how Type-Moon is, but she is historical. ] I have no regrets.

Though I can say that I wasn't expecting to be brought here during my final moments. Sometimes I wonder if fate has graced us with another opportunity.

[picolin]

[ somehow, he gets the sense that he's still missing something. like he's not seeing the full picture. but this hardly seems like the thing he should pry at. ]

I feel I may have touched upon something I shouldn't have. I'm sorry if that's the case.

[ an apologetic little dip of the head before he straightens back up. ]

But seeing this place as a second opportunity ... it may not be a bad idea. It seems as good a place as any to leave one's mark, and with your strength and generosity, perhaps attaining the same level of renown won't be too difficult.

[ it's definitely a little cheeky and flattering, but it doesn't sound insincere, at least. ]

[armorial]

No, that is not the case. I only feel that I wouldn't be the best of storytellers... It would only bore you.

[ Basically, she bad at communication. Everything she says about her own life would read like a textbook? Unless she's mad, then it would have some inkling of emotion, maybe. Closing her eyes, her face distorts a bit.

Goddamnit, despite being a king, she still has troubles with social interactions. Whatever, this is fine. She can do this. ]

But thank you for your consideration and encouragement. I only hope to be useful to those that have summoned me.

[ They have treated her well, she thinks. ]