#thgw: chapter 6

[tgrailwar-zero]

... leaving aside the fact that some Servants have categorically, measurably better luck than others... do we even have enough cash to blow on gambling?

... is there a signup fee for the Flaming Bout or can we just put out hat in the ring?

.... Caster, Caster, dear beloved empress, why did you make me think about gambling- now I wanna test my luck... the slot machines are calling to me... the poker tables are calling to me... the roulette wheels- well maybe not the roulette wheels, but...

Rider, please be a voice of reason on this...

NERO: "I cannot relate to those urges that you and Saber seem to have. I only like games of chance if I win. Who wishes to lose money? Money is to be spent, not wasted."

CONSTANTINE: "I get the feeling there's no stopping you all. I'll watch the little one and wait in the lobby, maybe ask around. Don't spend too much in one place, like you said we don't know if there's an entrance fee yet. Just… be careful."

CONSTANTINE: "Not a bad idea. I'll see what I can find related to our Pharaoh, and keep the little one with me. I'd rather the child not get caught up in the gambling."

MUSASHI: "I'll keep them safe, okay?"

CONSTANTINE: "Oh, like it's just them I'm worried about? You stay out of trouble too, Saber."

With that, he stepped off on his own, taking the little guy by the hands.

(CONSTANTINE has temporarily left the party!)

She feigned a deep gasp, as if gravely offended.

MUSASHI: "I don't cheat, I strategize. And I'm better at swordfighting. Playing cards would be fun, but I probably couldn't pull a ton off without a plan first. Or... what's it they say in modern movies? 'Casing the joint'?"

That was about right. The voice matched up.

Your Assassin, OKADA IZOU...

ASSASSIN... he was surly, loyal to a fault, and had horrible gambling luck. Far from the most heroic of individuals, but he wasn't an unpleasant person to be around-- when he was in a good mood at least.

He was also notoriously bad at gambling, and yet notoriously obsessed with it, if your memory served you right.

Outside of the 'black box' prison, he had also died at the hands of KARNA after killing ASCLEPIUS, but considering those memories were much less clear, it was best to remember the good times like 'Grail Force'.

IZOU was a blade, coated with blood and grime, but as effective as even the most luxurious of swords.

Approaching the table, you could see that he wasn't in the best of moods or situations.

IZOU: "Hey… mind loaning me a few bucks? Not a lot, just enough so I can afford this blind..."

GAUDY MAN: "Wahahaha! Why? What's the fun in winning my own cash back?"

GAUDY MAN: "However, if you really think you can pay me back… I'll loan it, with interest."

IZOU: "You're downright criminal, you know that?"

GAUDY MAN: "Come on, what if you win this time? And win big too, so that you actually turn a profit."

IZOU: "Bastard…"

Despite his cursing, you could already see him rummaging around in his wallet.

GAUDY MAN: "Attaboy. You need to spend money to make money, my friend. And see? Your goodwill has been rewarded by a couple of beautiful women and their pet ominous shadow gracing our presence."

They seemed to have noticed your arrival, looking up from the table as you, NERO, and MUSASHI approached.

OKADA IZOU, abruptly stood up, pointing in your direction. Or, more specifically, in MUSASHI's direction.

IZOU: "Saber? Saber, if that ain't you! Long time no see! I could never forget a pretty face like yours!"

It seems like he didn't pay much attention to you at the moment. You weren't exactly sure what you looked like previously, so there was a solid chance he just didn't recognize you.

MUSASHI: "I didn't think you'd be here, Assassin. How are things?"

IZOU: "Ah, the summonin' is a new deal. But... Say, do you and your rich-looking friend have some PPT you can loan an old pal? I swear I'm good for it."

MUSASHI: "Straight to asking for money? Assassin… take the war out of the picture and you're just sort of a slimeball, huh?"

IZOU: "C'mon, you're breakin' my heart here."

NERO: "As far as men go, I'd opt to call them both unsavory in very different ways."

GAUDY MAN: "Well, 'Assassin', don't just start up a conversation without introducing me. Especially in the company of such lovely ladies and their... well, dark and looming bodyguard, I presume?"

The man by IZOU spoke up, lightly clapping the Assassin on the back. He had a roguishly charismatic air about him, and seemed as slick as he was strong. He had the eyes of a schemer, similarly to CASTER.

DURYODHANA: "My name is Duryodhana, a pleasure. Though, when I grace the battlefield, the crowds have taken to calling me 'Jishnu'. It means 'Triumphant', where I hail from. I know, I know, it's a lot, but what can I say? The people call it as they see it."

MUSASHI: "Nice to meet you. You can just call me 'Saber', for now."

NERO: "I am Emperor Nero Claudius Caesar Augustus Germanicus. Though Emperor Nero will suffice."

DURYODHANA: "An Emperor? Well, how about that? I'm royalty myself! How about some drinks for our new friends? I've come into quite a windfall recently thanks to my swordsman friend here, you see. Hahahahaha!"

DURYODHANA flagged down some of the waitstaff as he cackled heartily, as IZOU placed a hand on his blade, smiling wickedly.

IZOU: "Oh, fuck off… I'll kill you, you know? Stab you right through that exposed gut."

DURYODHANA: "I'd love to see you try."

The two men, the former with the eyes of a killer and the latter with the glare of a demon, stared at one another.

There was a moment of tension where you really thought they actually would slaughter each other in the middle of this casino, before they both laughed and clinked their drinks together.

#thgw story #thgw: chapter 6 #main post

[tgrailwar-zero]

hey izou, this is a longshot, the longest shot of all longshots but, your summoning seems more stable so...do you have any weird dreams? dreams about fighting a caster and his shades in a church? or brawling with a rider who had no confidence? scolding a master for even thinking about alliances with rider in the middle of a war? fighting saber in the street at night? losing at gambling, coming home late, and nursing a horrible hangover? almost choking on bubble tea? killing a golden berserker in his own home? being trapped by a witch in a school with that rider we formed an alliance with? talking on the roof of a bar at night under the full moon?

He was quiet for a moment-- much longer than you'd expect for a yes or no question. Slightly, almost imperceptibly, his eyes narrowed- before he responded with a casual huff.

IZOU: "Servants can't dream. Anyways, we should get going."

DURYODHANA: "I see, well, that's a shame. I suppose the next time we meet, we'll be rivals. If you can impress the Boss, that is. Otherwise, have fun in the minor leagues."

KOMA: "...Koma should get going as well. Master Rikyu will be upset if I lose any more money at this gambling parlor. May we meet again."

With that, you, IZOU, and MUSASHI stepped outside, with NERO taking the Room Key to head back upstairs on her own. The cool, salty sea breeze chilled the air. Night had fallen quicker than you expected, though it wasn't too deep in the night to worry about shops closing- if they ever did close.

IZOU: "I'll get you signed up first. Then we'll take a walk around. We might be able to catch the person I'm lookin' for before she leaves for the night. Boss is hard to impress, but she's got a real eye for battle talent."

He walked you to what seemed like a large, arena-like building, leading you inside. It was quiet, astoundingly so as he looked around. He seemed frustrated, as you gathered the feeling that whoever he was looking to talk to wasn't here anymore before he suddenly exclaimed.

IZOU: "Ah-- caught her!"

He pointed at a woman leaving out one of the doors, jogging over.

IZOU: "Yo, Boss. Found some new blood!"

Turning to look at the 'Boss' in question--

That was JAGUAR MAN.

Sure, the aesthetic was different, but… that was her. You watched as she furrowed her brow, looking between you, MUSASHI, and IZOU.

MUSASHI: "Oh, hey! Long time, no see!"

JAGUAR MAN: "Tch. Well, ain't we friendly, Miss Fancy Pants?"

MUSASHI: "Uh, what?"

JAGUAR MAN: "It's late, Man-Kisser. This little kitty was on her way back home, not trying to fill out paperwork."

IZOU: "Man-Slayer, and I know, I know, but--"

JAGUAR MAN: "--Kissin' men, slayin' men, who cares? In this day and age they mean the same thing. You couldn't do this tomorrow morning like anyone else who felt like cutting it close? We already had one more late arrival, I don't wanna make this a habit."

IZOU: "C'mon, I'll owe ya' one. Promise. Just give 'em a look-over. I wouldn't just bring ya' some punk off the street."

There was a long moment of silence as JAGUAR MAN slowly paced around you three, looking up and down.

JAGUAR MAN: "Hm… well, just from looks alone, they seem like 'A+' competitors…"

She paused, before suddenly yelling--

JAGUAR MAN: "Meaning AMATEUR PLUS!"

JAGUAR MAN: "…"

JAGUAR MAN: "As in SLIGHTLY BETTER THAN AMATEURS!"

JAGUAR MAN: "..."

JAGUAR MAN: "As in--"

MUSASHI: "YEAH. WE GOT IT."

IZOU: "C'mon, Boss! Saber's good, I promise. She can handle the big leagues."

She tapped her naginata on the ground, pursing her lips as if she was in deep, intensive thought, red eyes boring into you and your Servant. She sighed, clicking her tongue.

JAGUAR MAN: "So, normally I'd toss you in the minor bracket, where you can just mess around with the would-be's and has-been's for a smaller pot… But, we've got an open spot in the major bracket. One of the fighters called in sick last-minute, caught a virus. But I'm not just giving it out to just anyone, I need the competitor to be someone that can fill seats. Someone with a story that'll capture the hearts and minds of viewers! We need ticket sales and thrilling fights, got it?"

She locked eyes with you.

JAGUAR MAN: "You're Miss Dual-Wielder's manager, right? Give me a backstory that'll sell seats, and I'll consider giving you this open spot in the main bracket with the big-leaguers. As long as you can afford the 400 PPT entrance fee."

MUSASHI: "I don't totally get what's going on, but... just tell her something she likes so we can get to the fighting part?"

#thgw story #thgw: chapter 6 #main post

[tgrailwar-zero]

You felt your pockets grow 400 PPT lighter as the exchange happened. Considering that you'd have to pay an equal fee to JAGUAR MAN later, you felt that this would be a heavy hit to your wallet.

PRETENDER: "Well, like I said, I didn't even see what happened. I only got there after the fact, and while what I saw there was pretty in the aesthetic sense, it didn't bode well for our team."

"I mean, was it absolute destruction? Not really." "It was a smooth pool. A total reset. A Noble Phantasm, or an Act of God… I really couldn't tell you which. But I figured it was pure chance that I wasn't there, and perhaps even greater luck that I wasn't the only one to survive- if Avenger is alive." "And, even still, it began rebuilding itself. Slowly, and carefully. A smooth pool turning into rushing water, an ocean that would one day welcome an island, and then perhaps inhabitants." "And then, a shadow manifested, rising from the water's reflection under the light of the sun. And it left a message. It was… ahem, something like…"

'…Our directive has changed. A poison has entered our system, and thus we must purify it and then expand outward.'

'To reach the Moon, they must return here. Here, I will test their mettle. Here, I will test their resolve.

'If they cannot best me, then I am the only one who can destroy the Titan. If they can, then perhaps fate is written differently than designed'

'So, with everything-- My everything. Their everything. The 'everything' that was left behind by those forgotten souls'

'They will prove their worthiness of it all in order to save it all.'

PRETENDER: "…Mm. That's all I remember, I just ran. I know it's cowardly, but I didn't stand a chance against anything that could wipe out so much land and rebuild it like it was nothing."

PRETENDER: "Anyways, that's all I've got! Now, I'd love to chat, but I want plenty of rest before the big match! Buh-bye!"

...And with that, the door shut.

IZOU: "...Huh. 400 PPT's worth of... that, I guess. Whatever, as long as Boss gets paid, she'll consider it a job well-done."

MUSASHI: "...Well, that's definitely something to mull over, I guess?"

#thgw story #main post #thgw: chapter 6

[tgrailwar-zero]

Izou. Let's not kid ourselves here, you are absolutely not good for it, even if you win you are just going to go all in again to try and make it bigger. What we are getting out of this is entertainment.

IZOU: "Haah? Why're you talkin' to me like you know me, huh? Big ass smug shadow, I'll kill you."

He rattled his swords as you saw MUSASHI gently rest a hand on her own blades.

Swiftly stepping in, DURYODHANA spoke up.

DURYODHANA: "Maybe they heard tell of the brand new sellsword of Her Radiant Majesty. You've slaughtered enough Enemy Programs alone to make a name for yourself in the short period you've been summoned. Still, if your gambling skills are as well-known as your combat skills, then you better watch out. People might start taking you for a rube."

DURYODHANA: "Now that's an idea. Izou?"

IZOU: "Ah, fine. As long as you're buyin'... but get me somethin' hard. This Solar Cell booze is no joke, it can even get Servants sloshed. It's not like I need to wake up early for the Bout. Early rounds are for weeding out either people who are newbies or late."

IZOU: "What's your poison, Saber? Rich Girl?"

MUSASHI: "They got any shochu? And I'm sure the princess would probably want to take a look at whatever the wine list here is."

Vaguely offended, NERO huffed.

NERO: "...I would, but that's besides the point. I'm not a princess, despite being as dainty as one. I'm an Emperor."

After the drink situation had gotten settled and ordered, eventually the waitstaff served you.

...As one of you had taken the initiative and picked the pina colada, and the rest of the table didn't seem as familiar with your... multifaceted tastes, that was the drink you found yourself stuck with.

Honestly, you weren't sure if you could get drunk, or if alcohol would do anything. You had gotten pretty smashed via CONSTANTINE when you had him drink that pulque as a test of courage against QUETZALCOATL, but this was different.

In that case, then a sweet drink like that was probably a good call. It'd taste good, even if it didn't do anything else.

Well, it wasn't like they were asking you to chug it.

DURYODHANA: "Cheers, to new arrivals! Let's show our new friends a welcome worthy of the Megalopolis, yes?"

#thgw story #endless whispers #thgw: chapter 6

[tgrailwar-zero]

The rest of the players played through. You watched as all three hit-- and all three found themselves firmly over 21. Even, surprisingly, DURYODHANA. A few sighs and frustrated groans later, that meant that standing was a solid call- you had won!

GIRL: "Ah… I lost…"

IZOU: "Dammit! That's a bust."

DURYODHANA: "I suppose that means I lose. Congratulations."

You're granted 400 PPT- a pretty solid profit considering you didn't put any money in this round. It seems like NERO is a pretty lucky one. You watched IZOU sigh, finishing his drink and shrugging.

IZOU: "Well, I'm outta cash. Are we gettin' outta here?"

You heard DURYODHANA scoff, leaning back in his chair.

DURYODHANA: "Come on, you can go on your little date later. There's still light out, and now there's money to win. I'll show you around the casino hall, give you a good time, promise. If you want, I can even toss some cash to Izou... as long as he pays me back."

IZOU: "Well..."

NERO: "I'm inclined to agree with Duryodhana. I quite enjoy winning. And besides, he did pay for our first round, it'd be rude to leave so early."

You saw MUSASHI shrug, seemingly entertained either way.

#thgw story #main post #thgw: chapter 6

[tgrailwar-zero]

The night passed without further event.

The sun rose, and you already saw your Servants up and about, MUSASHI and CONSTANTINE packing up the camp. Seeing you awake, the two of them waved before continuing the conversation that they were having before you had arrived.

CONSTANTINE: "…Kukulkan ran off on her own without a word to anyone…"

MUSASHI: "Hah! That's a Divine Spirit for you. She lives on her own rules."

CONSTANTINE: "It seems like Avenger slipped off during the night too. He probably got tired of waiting."

MUSASHI: "…And that's an Avenger for you, too. He has his own plans."

Despite the chatter, you felt a magical pull that you hadn't felt in a while. A renewed contract.

…You had the feeling AVENGER... no, SALIERI was going to be okay. And that you'd see him again soon. Besides, you did have the same destination after all. Perhaps he just wasn't used to traveling in a group?

Besides, he had made a promise. And that magical link was absolute proof of that.

CONSTANTINE: "Ah, well, I suppose there's no reason to grumble about it. Good morning, Masters. Best to put on your proverbial walking shoes- we have a ways to go."

MUSASHI: "I'm excited! The Megalopolis is supposed to be a major city, right? I can't wait!"

After some time, you saw NERO emerge from her tent, stretching with a yawn as two massive Mystic Codes clanked alongside her. She lightly rubbed the head of the Little Guy as she looked up towards the others.

NERO: "We're to be walking, yes? Then my Theatrical Mystic Codes shall be ready. The path between the Nameless City and the Transient Megalopolis isn't a dangerous one, but Enemy Programs still roam."

(KUKULKAN and SALIERI have left your party!)

And thus, your journey began.

The march was long, longer than you expected as the sun burned downwards, as the three Servants in your group handled it in various different manners.

CONSTANTINE took the lead, marching forward like a true leader. His armor glistened under the sunlight, and he didn't seem deterred in the slightest, making sure that the group kept a swift yet steady pace.

MUSASHI, in her sandogasa, seemed to be unbothered by the sun beating down, walking onwards with her sword in hands and- occasionally- swinging them at a rogue Attack Program that would slip out into the open. She kept the 'Little Guy' close, making sure that he didn't wander off.

NERO seemed to be the least suited for this type of travel, sticking to the back and frowning most of the way through. After one especially forlorn groan, she spoke up to CONSTANTINE with a childish pout.

NERO: "Constantinus, can you not summon riders for us? Perhaps even chariots? I don't see why we must do this on foot…"

There was a pause, before CONSTANTINE sighed. He raised his sword, blade glistening as several horses seemed to manifest from the magical ether. You had seen him summon his own mount in such a manner during your battle with QUETZALCOATL, but watching him summon more was interesting.

He helped you and NERO up onto the horses, MUSASHI effortlessly jumping up on her own with a grin, before you continued onward.

It was a minor magical expense. Truthfully, it wasn't a dangerous walk in the first place, but this made it safer. Understanding that you now had three powerful Servants under your employ, and were traveling at a swift pace, most of the Enemy Programs were nothing but fodder or could be easily outran. So, the rest of the ride was much more comfortable. Galloping now on horseback, riding down the grasslands before the grass slowly began to fade away to sand crystals, and the grassy plains smell began to pick up the scent of salt and sea.

Eventually, you saw buildings. High skyscrapers, cars drifting past, the sound of bustling excited crowds filling your ears. If the Nameless City was 'alive, but relaxed', the Transient Megalopolis was 'glittering and bustling' in every sense of the word. Looking back, you had noticed that NERO had changed at some point as you all got off your mounts, looking around the city proper.

You felt NERO take your hand, leading you and the others to what looked like a very expensive hotel. Even stepping inside, the sense that you were massively outclassed seemed to take hold as you found yourself almost blinded by the bright, shining golden ornamentation that decorated it.

MUSASHI: "Geh… leave it to a Roman Emperor to make you feel poor all of the sudden…"

LITTLE GUY: "Aaaah… it's so shiny…"

As MUSASHI gaped, you watched as NERO wandered up to the concierge, and exchanged words. You couldn't hear the conversation, but you got a gist of the conversation. Pleasantries tossed back and forth, a request, an exchange of a room key, and then that was that.

She returned, tossing you the aforementioned room key with a smile.

NERO: "I came here rather often in my memory-wiped state, I believe. Miss 'Lucius' is a bit of a model consumer, it seems. Good, good, nothing comes from frugality after all! Don't expect this treatment often, however, I am using the… 'company card' for this one expense, so to speak. I may not be a War Monitor, but they don't know that yet, so I'm having the Priest foot the bill on this one. Now, while I would wish to take a long, hot bath after traveling, do we have other plans?"

CONSTANTINE: "…Hm. Well, it's best to gather information on the Flaming Bout, and we need to find a way to establish contact with this Pharaoh in order to gain her blessing. Remember, we're still shooting for seven Trigger Keys in concept, so with the two we have and the blessing to use Lord Sigurd's, we'll have to convince the remaining four Lair Servants to use theirs in order to reach the Moon."

MUSASHI: "So we're just asking around? Best to wipe that serious look off your face, then. If we're information gathering, then you gotta match the mood! Lighten up!"

As if on cue, a loud wave of voices echoed from another part of the hotel- it led to a casino, it seemed. Considering how ritzy it all looked, it seemed like an extra profitable addition. Cheers and jeering alike seemed to come from a wave of people enraptured by several card players, two in particular wrapped in what seemed to be an extra heated bout.

GRUFF VOICE: "Ah, damn it! Damn it, damn it, damn it! You're cheatin'! I'm sure of it! Lemme check your sleeves, asshole!"

SUAVE VOICE: "Come on, now. You, my friend, are not a man I need to cheat against to best. Now, read 'em and weep! Hah!"

Another wave of cheers. MUSASHI nudged you with her elbow, giving you a mischievous smile.

MUSASHI: "Hehe… gambling, huh? You know, it's not the most healthy thing, but sometimes you can't help but get caught up in the energy. Besides, who doesn't like to leave things to chance every so often?"

#thgw story #main post #thgw: chapter 6 #long post

[tgrailwar-zero]

I mean, I can say many things about it Saber, but let's be real, people KEEP falling for it. I witnessed a corrupted grail monitor fall for it. Someone who could read your vitals at a distance. It still fucking worked.

MUSASHI: "That's because there's an ART to it. Listen--"

JAGUAR MAN: "Awright, enough chitter-chatter! I don't have all night! Let's get some decisions going here people!"

-

"Option 1 - Playing the heel!"

"Option 2 - Going bright and spacing out!"

"Option 3 - Hamming it up!"

"Option 4 - Playing it straight!"

#thgw story #main post #thgw: chapter 6

[tgrailwar-zero]

Her Radiant Majesty is the Queen of this city right? What's she like? Also, congrats on the job Assassin! Proud of you! 🌼🌼🌼🎉🎉🎉

IZOU: "...Thanks?"

DURYODHANA: "The Pharaoh of this city, yes. Cleopatra VII Philopator. She's a savvy one, beautiful and smart. I can see why she was so coveted during her era. With her mind and my wit together, who would need anyone else? We'd rule this place perfectly, and I'd be the strongest, wisest, most important Servant around!"

He took a long swig from his drink, slamming it down.

DURYODHANA: "But she turned me down when I offered. Me! For what reason could she possibly turn me down? She said she'd love to have me as an advisor, and of course I accepted, but fortune doesn't favor those without ambition. I'm nobody's secretary, you know."

DURYODHANA: "Meaning- I'll happily assist Her Majesty, but if we're being frank I'm simply waiting for a Lair Servant to kick the bucket, and then opt for promotion by whoever this Heavenly Divinity is. There's rumor going around that the previous Defender, Quetzalcoatl, is dead. That, and the Interlopers slaughtered the Healer Ascelpius. You know what that means, right? Two free spots for promotion! And I'm a shoe-in for the next Defender, once this little Saber situation is done and dealt with. It's all about who you know and how you use those connections, my friends!"

#thgw story #endless whispers #thgw: chapter 6

[tgrailwar-zero]

With a decision made, you saw JAGUAR MAN nod her head.

JAGUAR MAN: "Playin' the heel, huh? Not bad, not bad at all. Take it from a Jaguar, bein' an adversary is just as important as bein' a hero. People hesitate because they don't like to hear the crowd rally against 'em, but that's just a sign you're doin' the kayfabe right. Anyways, come back to the arena bright and early tomorrow, make sure you're ready. We'll talk more about the Bout then."

JAGUAR MAN: "You show up then, and do this favor for me tonight, and your one of mine. And listen- I treat my fighters right. You put on a good show and fight like you mean it, and you'll be golden in my eyes. Ciao."

She pulled out a slip of paper as she walked past MUSASHI, slipping it into her palm.

JAGUAR MAN: "Jeran's address. This'll save you some time, yeah?"

With that, she sauntered off with a half-wave, footsteps echoing in the arena lobby before eventually fading out.

BOSS: "Night, Boss! Damn, ain't she somethin'? Anyways, let's get this shakedown done with, and then we can hit the town for real."

MUSASHI: "Works for me. Best to get the work stuff out of the way first, right?"

And so, out you went.

As you walked, part of you wasn't sure this was the right address. You reached a dark part of town, that smelled of smoke. You heard a fight going on in a bar close by, and walked quickly past it to an apartment complex, heading up the rickety metal steps that clanged each time you, IZOU, or MUSASHI even made the slightest step on them.

Winding up the steps, you reached a set of doors, the sea breeze blocked by the hard metal of the apartment complex. IZOU, checking the note that JAGUAR MAN gave you all, stepped up to one and knocked.

There was a beat of silence, before you saw the door open up a crack, stopped by the chain lock.

You saw a pair of intense blue eyes peek at you from the crack. Tired, sallow, and sharp as daggers.

A sigh, low and rough, the sound dragging across your ears like sandpaper.

Then, the door slammed shut, and you heard some shuffling inside. There was a moment of (impatient) waiting as the shuffling slowly came to a halt.

Eventually, the door opened up, and out stepped PRETENDER. As bright-eyed, flowery and dandy as ever. He waved, leaning against the doorway, blocking the view inside.

PRETENDER: "…Ah, long time no see! The apartment is new, so I had to mess with the lock a bit, sorry for the wait! I… really… wasn't expecting to see you here."

PRETENDER: "Can I help you? Is there a problem?"

You saw IZOU raise an eyebrow, looking back at you and MUSASHI with a questioning expression.

IZOU: "This is our guy? You know 'im?"

MUSASHI: "Pretender! He helped my Masters out during the situation in the Nameless City."

PRETENDER: "Lady Saber! So nice to see you in some proper light, outside of those dusty old catacombs. You're looking well! All of you- is that a new body for the Masters? It suits you!"

#thgw story #thgw: chapter 6 #main post

[tgrailwar-zero]

Hey, you guys mentioned the sign up deadline for the Flaming Bout is tomorrow? Uhm. how do we sign up?

We should also send a message to K to let her know, she was so excited about participating!

IZOU: "You just need to visit the arena. They close tomorrow, yeah, but it's still kinda light out. There's a chance you could get registered today depending on how long we spend here. It's hard to miss, but I can show you the way if you need it."

IZOU: "Huh? You tryna pick a fight?"

DURYODHANA: "Let's just say, he's lucky his room and board is paid for by Cleopatra. And we're playing blackjack, for now. Though if we want to play dice, I can arrange that."

As the chatter continued and NERO took her seat at the table, another figure- a young woman, sat down in the one empty seat.

She was small, frail, quiet as she dealt over enough PPT to the dealer with a barely audible 'Chips, please', as if she was trying not to draw too much attention to herself in the first place. Her face lit up a little as the dealer did actually give her chips in exchange, before her expression stiffed up and she continued to keep her head down.

It felt like the behavior a teenager who had snuck into a bar at the first time, not sure what to do or say, and trying to simultaneously take advantage of the opportunity while not trying to get noticed and thrown out.

There was an oddness about her. A black, looming shadow-- or perhaps the opposite, a shadow that lacked any presence at all. She was pretty, yet forgettable, so much so that you felt yourself forgetting what she looked like the moment your attention drifted to anyone else.

It didn't seem like anyone else payed her much mind either, as the dealer simply exchanged her money for chips. She was barely acknowledged, really, with the exception of DURYODHANA noticing the increase in chips and clapping his hands together proudly.

DURYODHANA: "Ah, and the pot is raised to 400. Very good."

As he spoke, the dealer dealt the cards out.

NERO: "Hm. Let the gambling begin, I suppose."

-

You look at the cards dealt to you. A sixteen total. A nine facing up and a seven.

It looks like IZOU had an 9 face up, DURYODHANA had a 6, and the newcomer had a 8.

The rules of the game, as described by DURYODHANA, were simple. Whoever had the closest to 21 was victorious. You could either ask for more cards for a better chance at reaching 21, or stand with the cards you currently had. There was a level of care to be had-- if you got more than a 21 total when adding more cards, then you'd lose everything.

So...

#thgw story #endless whispers #main post #thgw: chapter 6

[tgrailwar-zero]

Don't worry about it Assassin, I am just saying that whatever we give you is our 'entertainment' budget.

As for why we are talking like this, we knew you in a past life. Also because it's funny and we've been through many serious events the last couple of days.

IZOU: "Past life? You know, if you're tryna hook up, it'll take a better line than that, and I'll have to be drownin' in booze."

You handed over 100 PPT, which IZOU promptly slammed down on the table in exchange for some chips.

IZOU: "Gess-talht? Wuzzat? Dutch for 'cheap'?"

MUSASHI: 'I figured, it feels like you guys are of multiple minds of how to tackle this though (as usual), just give me a ring if you want me to play defense.'

She whispered back, giving you a thumbs up.

IZOU: "What're you whisperin' about over there?"

IZOU: "Ah-- Y'know, if you're tryna suck up, you ain't doin' a bad job. Maybe just a couple hundred more PPT, maybe a thousand, and you'll be solid in my books..."

DURYODHANA: "Alright, alright. Did we come here to gossip or gamble? Not to say we can't do both, but I like seeing money on the table. Why don't you join us for a few rounds? The game is simple, a Western game. 'Blackjack'. You are dealt cards, try to reach 21 without going over, and whoever is the closest wins. Simple, no?"

DURYODHANA: "My preferred games involve dice, but these western-style card games have their appeal, even if they don't always match up. Here, I'll even pay for your starting bet, but if you want to keep it up, it'll have to come from your pocket."

You watched as DURYODHANA put 100 PPT worth of chips down for you, from his own pocket.

DURYODHANA: "So, if we all match that bet, then we'll have 300 PPT total in the pot. Lower than what I prefer, but since Izou is in such dire straits, I'll shave off a few zeroes for my dear friend's sake."

IZOU: "How kind. Keep up that smug face, and I might knock those teeth of yours out. Now deal out the damn cards."

It seemed like they were inviting you to play.

#thgw story #main post #thgw: chapter 6 #endless whispers

[tgrailwar-zero]

Pretender, did you take out a loan or something from a Jaguar man? We have to collect from someone named... Jeran? Jiren? Jaren? Something like that.

I hope he doesn't owe the exact number he pitched to us earlier.

PRETENDER: "Mm! So you've heard! 'Winter Prince Jeran', that's my stage name for the Bout! Ah, but that's why your here, and here I was thinking this was a courtesy call."

PRETENDER: "I get it, I get it… I'm just in a really tight spot cashwise… I'm trying to support me and my fae friends, after all. I'm like a single dad without a mana source working a bunch of freelance jobs. Aren't you good guys now? Are you really the types to shake down a struggling papa?"

PRETENDER: "And trust me, I want to do right by Lady Jaguar, so I figured once I won the Bout, I could easily pay her back. Am I in trouble? You've got a real shady looking guy with you, after all…"

IZOU: "That me?"

MUSASHI: "That's you."

PRETENDER: "Say, that sounds like a fair deal! I usually charge for my information services, remember? So, if you could cover the 400 I owe her, you'd really be doing me a solid!"

PRETENDER: "It sounds like there's a lot you wanna know, so how about it?"

You look back at your two guards, as they both patiently wait for some instruction.

#thgw story #endless whispers #thgw: chapter 6 #main post

[tgrailwar-zero]

THGW-Zero is going to be going on hiatus for a little while due to simultaneous projects occurring! But don't worry, we'll be back before you know it!

For those who haven't, take a chance to catch up!

Part 1 - The Holy Grail War

Chapter 1: 'Phantom/Grey Messenger'

Chapter 2: 'Emperor/Stalwart King'

Chapter 3: 'Alter Ego/Crossroads'

Part 2 - Journey Through the Solar Cell

Chapter 4: 'Invader/Free Spirit'

Chapter 5: 'Justice/One-Man War'

Chapter 6: 'Burning Bonds/Wildfire'

And for those who are up to date, join us at @dgrailwar for the Digital Holy Grail War, this time with Extra-Classes!

Thank you for your support so far, and take care of yourselves!

Mod ( @lapithae )

#mod update #mod post

[tgrailwar-zero]

THGW-Zero has updated!

End of Chapter 5

Beginning of Chapter 6 | Previous Post [Portal] | Start from the Beginning

You finally form your true contract with Avenger, who reveals his True Name. Then, after resting, you finally make your way to the Transient Megalopolis.

The Card Table

Good Financial Choices (24 Hour Poll) / New Items

Getting Drinks / Who is the Pharaoh? / Hook, Line, and... / Assassin of the Interlopers / The Red Saber

Time to Gamble? (24 Hour Poll)

#thgw update #thgw zero #mod post #avenger's matrix has been updated!

[tgrailwar-zero]

Welcome to the "Theurgical Holy Grail War", a Fate-based Quest run via polls!

The current running poll/update post is HERE.

How Servant HP and MP works is HERE.

Your poll results will impact the story progression in a number of ways, so be sure to talk to your fellow participants, send in suggestions and asks, and keep track of the story!

Banner Art Sources

Party Split/Exploration Rules

SERVANT MATRICES (Updated as the Story progresses):

Endurance, Mana, and Command Spell Gauges are present in each matrix.

ALLIED SERVANTS: Invader | Rider | Caster | Avenger | Saber

-

However, your Servant's statistics, as well as items you find along the way, may also serve to either help or hinder your choices! Work along your Servant and stay aware of their strengths and weaknesses in order to survive the Holy Grail War! Additionally, all posts after this one will exclusively be on @tgrailwar-zero, instead of being crossposted to @tgrailwar!

Navigation

The Preliminary War (@tgrailwar)

Start the True THGW from the Beginning: (Chapter 1 - phantom/grey messenger)

Start Part 2 of the True THGW: (Chapter 4 - invader/free spirit)

Begin Chapter 6 of the THGW: (Chapter 6 - burning bonds/wildfire)

[ Current Currency: 1170 PPT ]

Master Abilities:

code cast: hack16(); - deal damage and a chance to stun enemy Servants. May be resisted by Servants with a stronger constitution. Reusable.

code cast: thunderous_applause(); - A code cast that can be used to temporarily increase how others perceive your 'Charisma'. A 'beguiling' magecraft. But be careful! Those with a strong understanding of magic/hacking or high Magic Resistance can resist the effects. Can be used once per 'Long Rest'.

code cast: endless_whispers(); - A gift from the liminal space. Allows for other Servants to hear your voices... due to being a gift from a fundamentally evil being, these voices manifest more like dissonant, malevolent, overwhelming whispers to non-contracted Servants. A double-edged sword, if you will.

code cast: check_location(); - Check Servant locations, with more specific detailing if in the same zone, and will alert if close to a Lair Servant's territory. Non-Contracted Servants can be registered. Can be upgraded.

Mystic Code: Runic Tether - Made by the Heroic Spirit Sigurd to give you a quasi-physical form.

Items:

code cast: cure(); - Heal a minor status effect. One time use.

code cast: mpheal(16); - Slightly recovers Servant Mana. One time use.

code cast: gain_lck(16); - Slightly boosts a Servant's luck. You're not sure if this counts as cheating or not at a gambling table.

code cast: heal(32); - Recovers Servant HP (+2 to EG). One time use.

'Chaotic Heroic' Act 1 - Act one of a play. This part is apparently a 'tragicomedy about a starving artist'. There's a dragon with wolf ears on the cover.

'Chaotic Heroic' Act 2 - Act two of a play. This part is apparently about the protagonists being invited to a 'special event'. A blonde woman and a dark haired man stand surrounded by lions on the cover.

'Chaotic Heroic' Scraps - Scrapped pieces from a play. They serve as grim portents as to what waits for you on the Moon's surface...

Mana-Granting Aulos - A strange item crafted by Nero. Once per chapter, blowing into it will cause your entire party to recover 2 points of mana. After that, it can be quickly recharged once more by creating and reciting a poem extolling the virtues of strengths of your Heroic Spirits.

Zone Map - A minimalist map of the major surface 'Zones' within the Solar Cell.

"Little Guy" - A child that you found in the Solar Archives. He's so cute, you could just eat him up! ...Metaphorically, of course.

Camp Supplies - Camping supplies found by Musashi. Allows you to comfortably rest when in between Zones.

Room Key - Key to Nero's ritzy hotel room, using her leverage as a former Lair Servant and putting the expense on her former coworkers. "Don't let me here you say say Emperor Nero didn't treat you well!", you can imagine her saying.

Nameless City Map - A map of the major locations within the Nameless City.

Pizza - A box of pizza. May restore Servant HP and MP upon consumption.

Soda - A can of soda. Slightly restores Servant MP (+1 Mana Charge).

Sandwich (x3) - Three sandwiches. Slight restoration to Servant HP (+1 to EG).

Banquet Cake - Some cake from Sigurd's banquet saved for you by your Servants. It's for you, and you only.

Trigger Key Alpha - The key possessed by Lair Servant Quetzalcoatl. One of the seven needed to reach the Administrative Core of the Solar Cell.

Trigger Key Phi - The key possessed by Lair Servant Asclepius. One of the seven needed to reach the Administrative Core of the Solar Cell.

Crimson Blade - A old, yet regal looking blade made from crimson-colored meteor metal. Currently in the possession of Nero (Caster).

Message Disk, 'Forgotten Blade' - A recording from a Servant that heavily resembles Caster. It seems like an apology of sorts.'

Servant Origins:

'Servant Origins' are items that can be collected from defeated enemies, that can later be used to summon them as allies- or potentially other purposes. While an 'Origin' can be summoned without much fuss, items can be used to alter aspects of the Servant or change the Origin entirely.

Asclepius Origin - The Spirit Origin belonging to the Lair Servant, Asclepius. A standard summon of this Spirit Origin will summon the divine healer Asclepius as a standard Servant.

#mod post #blog navigation #will be updated when needed