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05/02/2024 09:14 PM
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Penacony and Remaining Factions List!
Name: Gallagher Titles: Character Details:
A security officer from the Bloodhound Family in Penacony. He is also a slovenly and indolent drinksmith.
Though unorganized in apparel and casual in how he makes his drinks, he is always courteous toward visiting guests but keeps his vigilance about him.
He seems to carry a weight of a complicated past, yet he never voluntarily divulges any details. Character Stories I and II:
Story I:
"The scent of tobacco, candy, and cheap shampoo... he gives off the typical smell of a middle-aged bachelor. While his clothes are tidy, they are always wrinkled and display a lack of style. He also displays no desire to look after his appearance. He doesn't have many friends, and his favorite pastime after work is enjoying a few glasses of Sweet Dream Special. Always sitting at the same spot, with the same drink, and with the same waiters... It's never changed in more than a decade.
Yet such a man won the admiration and respect of the Bloodhound Family members — this is probably related to the scar etched across his face. In a sweet dream practically devoid of any accidents, an ugly scar serves as a rare honor for a security officer, symbolizing seniority and prestige.
Whenever confronted with a case, he would first unwrap a piece of candy and put it in his mouth. When the candy is almost gone with his chewing, he dives into the investigation with furrowed brows and ponders the clues until late in the bar. However, unlike the young officers, he seems to no longer find pleasure in apprehending suspects. When he gazes into the eyes of the so-called criminals who fell so far in the sweet dream, I see no sense of accomplishment in his eyes, only a profound emptiness and melancholy.
I actually understand him. When you reach this stage of life, you'll start to doubt the meaning behind the life you've previously led. It was just like what I have experienced."
— Note: The Security Officer of the Bloodhound Family
Story II:
"People need an opportunity to connect with each other, and the diverse special mixes within the Dreamscape serve as catalysts for such reactions.
As I check out my surroundings, I soon notice an individual who's used to suavely navigating through life.
Using the Sweet Dream Special's fame as a starting point, he starts the conversation with the history of syrups and SoulGlad, explaining to the guests the connection between the time spent shaking the drink and the flavor of the final product. Then, he talks about the degrees of fit between the special mix's aroma with a person's personality, and how to master the secret of matching the right ingredients... The surrounding faces drown in the darkness of the surroundings. He listens to the whispers of sorrow or joy, all the while coldly observing the hearts of the masses as the drunken party continues.
He waits for all the guests to depart, then polishes the silver cups on his own until they gleam while gazing out the door. Day after day, he waits for someone who will never return, waiting for that person to give him an eternal lie that will end such a never-ending destiny.
He walks alone down the street as lights go out one after another, and he casts a long shadow behind him —
Perhaps I, too, will step on to the same predetermined path as he is on."
— Note: Sweet Dream Drinksmith
"Making a drink is a sensory skill. In dreams, creating fizzy concoctions requires adding a bit of your mood. Heavier if you're troubled, a touch sweeter if you're in high spirits... It's not just about mixing beverages. It's about mixing the experiences of life." Gallagher's Theme
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Name: Sparkle Titles: Character Details:
A member of the Masked Fools. Inscrutable and unscrupulous.
A dangerous maestro of theatrics, utterly engrossed in the art of performance. Adorned with innumerable masks, she is the hero with a thousand faces.
Wealth, status, power... None of those matters to Sparkle. The only thing that can get her attention is "amusement." Character Stories I and II:
Story I:
The girl, an abandoned orphan, lived without knowledge of her origins or destination until she encountered a passing troupe. From a distance, she watched a black-haired lady with a double ponytail, gracefully moving across the stage like a fish. Despite donning various masks, they did not hinder her laughs and cries during her performance, captivating the audience even from afar. The fish leaped in front of her, then dove back down, creating ripples in the surface of the water.
Gradually, she realized she was watching the performance from beneath the stage.
Intrigued, she continued to watch the performances for countless days, but she remained an audience member, never stepping into the spotlight. After one of the shows ended, she went backstage, where the black-haired lady handed her a mask.
"Can I perform, too?"
"Why not? If others believe you are 'Sparkle,' then you are. Go, it's time for your show."
As the curtain, serving as the fourth wall, was drawn, the stage remained dimly lit, revealing an unsettling black void. Though wearing a mask, she knew the audience could see and hear her. She kept recalling Sparkle's performance, imitating her movements, voice, and demeanor.
"You've done very well for your first time."
"But my imitation... Was not perfect."
"That is a minor hiccup, but not a problem as long as nobody notices the difference... By the way, we are leaving tomorrow, so for as long as you want, you are the true Sparkle here, and you can make her whoever you want her to be."
Sparkle wanted to say something, but the lady affectionately rubbed her head.
"Not many people come to see us, except for you. We're just a small troupe, and we don't have grand aspirations of becoming famous in the cosmos... It brings me joy to meet someone like you who will remember an insignificant character named Sparkle... Don't cry, you can keep this mask. Now it's yours."
Sparkle nodded.
"When you don this mask, you have the power to become anyone and no one... If you truly aspire to be an actor, don't limit yourself to this small stage. Set your sights on the larger world and explore new horizons."
Story II:
As the last descendant of the Puppet Clan, the girl lacked the freedom to choose. She was bound to live her life according to the dictates of the mask, as puppets were mere vessels for the masks.
According to their legend, the longer a puppet dons a mask, the higher the chances of the puppet acquiring a soul, resembling a true human. However, in human folklore, masks were depicted as tools used for resurrecting the deceased, thus leading to the dwindling numbers of her people.
However, as she had no interest in becoming human, being a doll was not an unfavorable choice for her. She dutifully obeyed the commands of the mask, despite the risk of attracting pursuers, as defying the mask proved to be challenging.
Movement was a crucial aspect.
By the will of the mask, she needed to smile sweetly when happy, hold her forehead while crying, grit her teeth when angry, narrow her eyes when jealous, and make a scene when in despair. There were also signature gestures, such as raising her eyebrows slightly to face others with the left side of her face, and raising her hand to express love, although she had to lower it later, as slightly biting her lower lip was the way to convey her true desires.
Voice was another aspect.
Depending on the situation, her voice needed to be cheerful when happy, mellifluous when expressing lyrical emotions, calm and assertive when making statements, strained when harboring hatred, and sorrowful when filled with grief.
Remarkably, she managed to sustain this way of life for years, seamlessly blending into her surroundings and even becoming a playwright. Nobody ever suspected that she wore a mask. However, she couldn't help but wonder if there existed another type of "mask" in the world — perhaps someone wearing such a mask would laugh when seeking revenge, shed tears when smiling, remain silent when raging... And speak the most sarcastic remarks with the utmost calmness.
Naturally, she couldn't do this due to the will of the mask, but as a playwright, making her characters on stage act like this was easy for her.
One morning, the doorbell rang, but it wasn't her usual delivery person at the door.
"Dear Miss Sparkle, I wonder if we could have a chat?"
"We have read your latest work, and we're curious if you know anything about the 'Mask'..."
"I'm not exactly a person loaded with cool skills, and dreaming big isn't really my thing. But, ya know, my latest thing is... getting myself into the Genius Society! Ha, I'm so ready to give it a go. Reckon anyone will buy it?" Sparkle's Theme
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Name: Aventurine (Kakavasha) Titles: Aventurine of Stratagems Character Details:
Senior manager of the Strategic Investment Department at the IPC and one of the Ten Stonehearts. His Cornerstone is the "aventurine of stratagems."
An ostentatious risk-taker, he often wears a smile that masks his true motives.
He won his current position by wagering against fate itself. He views life as a high-stakes, high-return investment, and he plays this particular gamble with masterful ease. Character Stories I and II:
Story I:
"I have something to report to you about the new employee."
"What makes you so worried, Erwin?"
"It's complaints about him, both formal and informal. My mailbox has been flooded with them like countless pieces of paper. I wonder... if it's worth reconsidering his inclusion in the Strategic Investment Department."
"What do these complaints say?"
"Mostly about his origins. Those eyes of his..."
"He once deceived the Marketing Development Department by falsely claiming that there were energy sources hidden in the barren land of Sigonia, not yet effectively developed and utilized. A huge amount of funds was invested into excavating it before we realized it was all a scam."
"And then there's the notorious Egyhazo Aventurine Case. He misled the Intelligentsia Guild into believing that the remains of Tayzzyronth the Imperator Insectorum were buried there. Despite the scholars being extremely cautious, they ultimately still fell into the trap."
"And let's not forget the letters from the councilors of the Sigonian Sovereignty. They denounce his tribe for once breaking agreements and sowing discord, leading to significant changes in the balance of peace between the tribes, resulting in repeated delays in the signing of agreements between Sigonia and IPC. Allowing such an employee to join at the IPC would be a severe detriment to public relations..."
"If these are the extent of the complaints, there's no need to tell me."
"...You already know it all?"
"Each gemstone holds unique value, and our task is to make investments."
"We don't need to appease those stubborn old-timers who sent in complaints, as these rumors will eventually reach... No, they would already have reached his ears. Well, let's take this chance and see how big of a surprise he can bring us."
Story II:
"You're quite something else, boy... I still can't figure out how you managed to empty out my entire business. But I will never surrender. If push comes to shove, I'll just blow up this whole place... What are you gonna do about it?"
The Mad Bull of Iymanika signals his followers to let go. The other man raises his head from the table, dusting off his collar.
"You arrogant dogs from the IPC never respected us wanderers, did you? But now that you're in our territory, you'll play by our rules."
Mad Bull empties the magazine, putting only one bullet in the revolver, and tosses it to the other man's feet.
"Six shots. Fate will decide whether we live or die after a maximum of six shots. Do you have the nerve?"
The other man bents down and picks up the revolver.
"There are too many people who've pointed a gun at me. Some of them even just went ahead and pressed the trigger straight up... Now, guess how come I'm still standing here."
The man stands up, stares into the Mad Bull's eyes, raises the gun, and puts it against his own heart.
"It's because the gun will always end up in my hand."
"And now, this game is making me bored... One in six? That possibly is nowhere near enough. If you want to tempt fate..."
Six consecutive gunshots thunder out in the starship that is wrapped in a deathly silence. After the smoke clears, the man raises the gun again and walks toward Mad Bull. The revolver is now loaded with a fresh bullet.
"You need to learn how to turn yourself into a die first."
"...You won't surrender, but why? Because you have this lousy game of chance? Or..."
He points the gun into the darkness.
"Because of her?"
A woman holding a pistol emerges slowly from the direction the revolver points. The Mad Bull acts as if he found a lifeline when he sees her.
"Madam Jade, this is not what we agreed upon..."
At that moment, both of them opened fire simultaneously, and two figures dressed in black fall from the shadows behind each of them.
"The IPC has enemies everywhere, right?" The woman calmly holsters her pistol, takes out her cosmetic mirror, and inspects her appearance.
"You used our lives as bait, making them believe there was internal strife between us, and then you eliminated them all... A clever trick, although a bit reckless." He greets the woman with a smile, although his hands tremble slightly.
"Trick? No, it was just a test."
The elegant lady opens her palm, revealing a shimmering aventurine of peculiar hues.
"There's nothing strange about it. Gemstones are destined to be... desired, sought, cut, and sold."
"However, there's so much more you can do. It all depends on how you see yourself."
"Go ahead, use me as you wish, even stab me in the back if you see fit. Exploitation and treachery are simply tools of the trade. But remember, I don't make deals that don't pay off... So, I hope you don't disappoint me." Aventurine's Theme
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Name: Topaz (& Numby) Titles: Senior Manager of the Strategic Investment Department Character Details:
Topaz, Senior Manager of the Strategic Investment Department in the Interastral Peace Corporation, and leader of the Special Debts Picket Team.
Already a member of the "Ten Stonehearts" at a young age, Topaz's core stone is the "topaz of debt retrieval."
Her partner, the Warp Trotter "Numby," is also capable of acutely perceiving where riches are located. It can even perform jobs involving security, debt collection, and actuarial sciences.
Presently they are traversing the cosmos together, chasing down various debts and liabilities that negatively influence the IPC's commercial ventures. Character Stories I and II:
Story I:
"Destor, have you seen this resume?"
"Which one do you... Oh, it's her — She just finished her internship at the marketing research team, and made quite a stir there — Ah, in a good way."
"She's already finished the internship? Ah..."
"Is there something wrong, Mr. Dvorski?"
"Nothing. Just curious. After all, the age at which she started her career is the youngest recorded in this department... Besides, her resume is so stunning. Let me see... Oh! She even signed a "lifelong contract"? I didn't expect us to pick up a talent like this from such a despondent planet..."
"I've already checked with our colleagues. Everything in her resume is true. She didn't even write her employment exam results in — Apparently she got a high mark in actuarial sciences, micro- and macroeconomics, intergalactic finances, and management sciences. Even her physical exam was nearly perfect. The only topic she failed was..."
"Hmm? What was it?"
"... It's business etiquette. She didn't even turn up for that test. 'I absolutely hate formalism' — apparently that's what she said."
Story II:
"Say... You —"
"Hmm? What's wrong, Uncle Dvorski?"
"...You know pets are forbidden at the office, right?"
"Of course! Row 144 from paragraph 86 of the employee pamphlet — It is strictly forbidden to bring any form of organic pets on-site to any of the Interastral Peace Corporation's offices."
"...So you remember it very well. Then, can you explain yourse—"
"— But I think this rule is useless and doesn't need to be obeyed at all. To be honest with you, sir — with these cute little things around, my work efficiency went up by twenty-seven percent!"
"...I won't question the numbers coming out of your mouth, but..."
"See? This little one — up you get — it's called Numby! Don't treat it just as a normal Warp Trotter. It's really sensitive to the scent of money! Now I bring it with me wherever I go abroad for business. It's basically become my lucky star~"
"I never thought I'd see such creatures at the office. Seriously... *cough* Anyways, I'll pretend I didn't see it. Just remember, the next time the director comes for a visit — Ah! Ahhh! What's going on!? D-Don't bite me! Q-quickly! Get it away —"
"Money is a means, not an end. Work should make you happy... That's the most fundamental principle." 
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Name: Argenti Titles: Knight of Beauty Character Details:
A paragon knight of the Knights of Beauty.
He embodies righteousness and honor, possessing an admirable nobility. As a solitary wanderer in the cosmos, he wholeheartedly embraces the principles of "Beauty."
Upholding the honor of beauty in the universe has been Argenti's sacred duty. From the very beginning, he approached this duty with piety and unwavering conviction. Character Stories I and II:
Story I:
His hometown was ravaged by war for years, and the memories of his early childhood were tainted by the horrors of bloodshed and relentless shelling. Amidst the chaos, he sought refuge underground and, by chance, discovered an ocarina beneath a stone tile.
With trembling hands, he attempted to coax a melody from the instrument.
However, his "music" proved to be terrible.
Yet, the ethereal notes emanating from his ocarina became his sanctuary, a spiritual escape from the harsh reality.
Over time, the melodic strains faded into the recesses of his memory, becoming a mysterious and elusive moment. It was only years later, during a bard tour, when he saved a child from the flames of war and received a precious ocarina as a token of gratitude, that the melodies of his past resurfaced.
Holding the exquisite instrument in his hands, he examined its flawless and noble craftsmanship. Once again, the melodies of his childhood converged, evoking a flood of emotions and memories.
However, his "music" remained terrible.
"I'm too clumsy to master this instrument..."
He murmured in self-deprecation. Yet, after a profound moment of contemplation, a resolute courage ignited within him. He resolved to try once more, to weave a melody.
The music remained unchanged, but this time, he laughed wholeheartedly.
"Despite the terrible music, I love it. I believe it to be beautiful."
Carefully stowing away his ocarina, he once again embarked on his journey without hesitation.
Story II:
After leaving his hometown, he became the apprentice of an elderly master.
Alongside physical and mental training, he would often listen to his master's tales of bygone eras — stories of transcendent beauty and mystical phenomena witnessed by the Minstrels.
"It was a world bathed in amber, draped in undisturbed stillness, where every being shed tears for the magnificent wonders veiled beneath its surface."
"Rumor has it that Idrila, after embarking on a journey spanning numerous cycles of Thirteen Amber Eras, will make a triumphant return to the universe during the elusive thirteenth month."
Day after day, his master imparted the essence of beauty to him. He learned to go beyond mere poetic recitation and embrace devotion as the embodiment of beauty, truly upholding its philosophy.
He understood that beauty was not just a code to follow but a way of life, an existence known as a knight.
However, his master departed from this world, and he once again set out on his lonely journey. He contemplated his existence, pondering the nature of his being. Instead of lamenting his solitude, he focused on becoming a true knight.
During his stay in an old city, he labored to restore its dilapidated streets.
He vanquished nightmarish monsters, and with the arrival of spring, rabbits frolicked once again in the woods.
He also briefly found companionship in the presence of another knight, who professed his faith in the blessings of the goddess residing within his armor.
"To give one's soul requires understanding that each encounter might be one's last, yet retreating is never an option."
"Carry these words of courage with you, my dear friend."
He contemplated on his lance, which bore the stains of countless battles fought in the name of Beauty.
With solemn reverence, he wiped away each mark, a testament to his tireless odyssey toward the pursuit of Beauty.
"May this rose convey my heartfelt salutations." Argenti's Theme
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Name: Veritas Ratio Titles: Dr. Ratio Character Details:
A candid and self-assured Intelligentsia Guild member, who often conceals his appearance with a strange plaster sculpture.
He demonstrated unparalleled intelligence and talent since his youth, but now refers to himself as a "Mundanite."
Firmly believing that intellect and creativity are not confined to geniuses, he seeks to distribute knowledge to the entire universe to cure the persistent disease named ignorance. Character Stories I and II:
Story I:
Veritas Ratio, who calls himself "Dr. Ratio," is as contentious as his research. In Ratio's homeworld, there are no less than eight documentaries detailing his legendary exploits, and over a dozen memoirs about him. However, despite the plethora of commentaries, none of them seems to provide a compelling perspective. To fill this void, I personally visited Professor Rond, who had a significant influence on Ratio's upbringing. Though advanced in years and unable to speak coherently, Professor Rond couldn't contain his excitement at the mention of Ratio's name. With the help of his family and students, I obtained a yellowed yet remarkably well-preserved letter of recommendation.
"To the respected admission committee of the University of Veritas Prime:
I am Rond, Professor Emeritus of the Department of Mathematics at the Cosmos Liberty University. Given your institution's reputation for valuing talents and education, I would like to recommend a student named Ratio to advance his studies at your university. Although Ratio is a high school student at the moment, his mastery of math, physics, and even philosophy has far exceeded the requirements for an undergraduate degree in many universities.
While he was under my tutelage, Ratio managed to solve complicated mathematical equations at an unexpectedly staggering speed. The undergraduates in my class struggled to even comprehend the concepts. Out of curiosity, I shared a manuscript about an equation named Rond's Conjecture in private. Although I'm the one who proposed the equation, I've been unable to prove it. After days of discussion, Ratio came up with a brilliant and stunning idea that managed to finally prove the equation in one strike. The paper will be published shortly, and you will see that I am speaking the truth.
Ratio showed remarkable perception, curiosity, and creativity during the time we spent together. He wakes up early every morning to exercise before diving straight into the sea of knowledge afterward. Perhaps, he is exactly what everyone would picture a genius to be — passionate, profound, fervent, and inherently dominating.
Due to the lack of more advanced science programs at local schools, I sincerely hope that your esteemed institution will accept Ratio's enrollment. I can vouch for him on my reputation that he will definitely achieve accomplishments that transcend this era and bring glory to your widely-renowned institution.
Best wishes,
Rond
██ ██ ██, Philosopher Calendar"
Extracted from page 9, Wisdom as a Privilege: Decoding Dr. Ratio
Story II:
After acquiring his eighth doctoral degree, Ratio was awarded the First Class Honors Degree that had been left vacant for two Amber Eras in the University of Veritas Prime. Even many years later, this achievement remained unparalleled in the history of the university and was likely to remain unmatched for generations to come. At that time, Ratio was already a prominent figure in society, but there were varying opinions about him among his teachers and peers. This is the electronic copy of some valuable information I gathered:
"
Campus Highlights:
1. #First Class Honors Degree Awarded to Veritas Ratio#
Views (2500), Comments (145)
Details:
The First Class Honors Degree of our university that has been vacant for two Amber Eras will soon be awarded to Veritas Ratio in recognition of his outstanding achievements in the fields of biology, medicine, natural theology, philosophy, mathematics, physics, and engineering. Given his remarkable contribution to the subject of energy sources on this planet, Veritas Ratio will be granted direct eligibility for teaching.
Professor Velita, Department of Mathematics:
Congratulations to Ratio! He deserves all the glory for his diligence and intelligence! Do you still remember how he put on a headgear to keep away all external distractions and completely focus on thinking? Who else in the world could manage that? Although Ratio was my student for some time, I'm afraid I actually learned more from him than what I taught him. Ratio was a breath of fresh air at the University of Veritas Prime with his honesty and straightforwardness. We should all be grateful to him!
Agree (1000+), Disagree (2)
Philosophy_Delinquent:
Shouldn't he be a member of the Genius Society already?
Agree (850), Disagree (5)
Physics_Is_Beautiful:
Rumor has it that some congressman's son attended a class where Ratio was the TA. The guy tossed some cash on Ratio, trying to bribe him for a pass. Ratio came down hard on the guy and threw him out of the classroom. That's right — he literally THREW him... What a god among men.
Agree (550), Disagree (112)
BearMarket_Loser
I once went to a class where he was the TA and couldn't wrap my head around what he was saying. I held on to the end and scored 0. I count myself lucky that my score wasn't negative...
Agree (448), Disagree (37)
Cosmos_Walker
Give me a like if you've ever cried because of his scolding!
Agree (330), Disagree (110)
BoredomKillledTheCat
Is it true that he showers with his headgear on?
Agree (220), Disagree (10)
Follow-My-Lead
He's not that great, is he? I can do the same if I just work harder...
Agree (1), Disagree (1000)
...
You might like:
2. #The 8th Doctoral Degree Under Ratio's Belt#
3. #Ratio Featured in College Textbooks#
4. #Is Veritas Ratio Crazy?#
"
According to statistics, Ratio has taught 52 courses during his tenure. The courses, known to be harsh and challenging, have a completion rate of no more than 3%. Almost all the students who made it to the end have become experts in certain fields.
...
Extracted from page 82, Wisdom as a Privilege: Decoding Dr. Ratio
"The most annoying thing about idiocy is that you can't explain it to an idiot." Dr. Ratio's Theme
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05/02/2024 08:50 PM
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The Stellaron Hunters
Name: Kafka Titles: Character Details:
On the Interastral Peace Corporation's wanted list, Kafka's entry only has two things — her name, and a single sentence: "Likes collecting coats."
Little is known about this Stellaron Hunter, other than that she is one of Destiny's Slave Elio's most trusted members.
In order to achieve Elio's envisioned future, Kafka gets to work. Character Stories I and II:
Story I:
"Kafka, female human. Hails from New Babylon of Pteruges-V. Core member of the Stellaron Hunters, the next-in-command of 'Destiny's Slave.' Responsible for the following infractions: The Pier Point Incursion, two counts; The Pier Point Heist; The Trovys Disappearance; The Stellaron events of Jemorse, Bayjhana, Shilla-39C, Ulmora, 7-Midville, Loar-51, and Dro'a; Cyber attacks against Pier Point, four counts; Cyber attacks against Planet Screwllum; Cyber attacks against Herta Space Station; The Jepella Rebellion. Suspected to be related to the following infractions: The Stellaron events of Sich-Lala, Inupeis, Oun-G7, Zukov, Lidovia, Illily, Attouine, Buhayama.
Wanted Level: Highest. Dead or alive."
- Wanted Order by the Interastral Peace Corporation
Story II:
"...Due to the investigation's needs, the suspect's basic information is published as follows: Suspect Kafka (Wanted Serial No.: L933012000020002010004), female, outworld individual, age unknown; height about 170 centimeters, average body size. She had been spotted draped with a black jacket and wearing a white collared shirt inside, a pair of tight-fitting dark shorts, purple pantyhose, and a pair of sunglasses on her head.
The suspect has been reported to be connected to multiple non-natural disasters occurring on the Luofu in the recent past. She is currently at large, and is now publicly wanted on the Luofu. Any department and unit who detected said suspect are encouraged to contact the local Cloud Knights. At the same time, we encourage the suspect to turn herself in and to not take any chances."
— Luofu Wanted Order (revoked)
"You won't remember a thing except me."
Kafka's Theme
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Name: Blade (Yingxing) Titles: Character Details:
A swordsman who abandoned his body to become a blade. Birth name unknown.
He pledges loyalty to "Destiny's Slave," and possesses a terrifying self-healing ability.
Blade wields an ancient sword riddled with cracks, just like his body and his mind. Character Stories I and II:
Story I:
The only thing he could sense was a splotch of crimson in his sight and the taste of iron in his mouth. His limbs were unresponsive.
— He must have died.
"Do you remember?"
He opened his mouth, lost, his voice as coarse as a savage beast's.
The sound from his throat stopped abruptly as the cold, hard object penetrated his torso.
Again and again, this repeated for thousands of times.
How marvelous. When his muscle fibers tore open, he could hear the tiny sounds of tendons bridging and reconnecting.
How marvelous. The monster in his body was being nourished, but he would let it grow into a massive beast.
How marvelous. He had already lost all will to life, but his body regenerated without any consideration for his preferences.
How marvelous.
Before the sword pierced his body once more, he grabbed it with his bare hands and slowly stood up.
"Do you remember now?"
He met the woman's blood-red eyes, his mind still empty.
— He was run through by the sword once again.
"Remember the feeling of death, and bring it to them."
Crimson resurfaced in his vision. He stared at the sword that killed him. The blade was broken in half and lying on the ground.
"Rise, and let me kill you once more."
Story II:
The only thing he could sense was a splotch of crimson in his sight and the taste of iron in his mouth. His limbs were unresponsive.
— He must have died.
The black-haired young man shivered violently all over, but still clutched onto the spear in his hands.
He had no dragon horns, and his reaction was slightly less mature than he remembered...
But he would never forget this spear, these eyes, and how cruelty burst out from beneath the mirror-like emerald calmness.
His wounds began to heal. His irises flickered and fixed their gaze at the boy once more.
Without hesitation, the boy made another flourish with the spear...
"That's it."
The one who showed no mercy to enemies - was you.
The one who single-handedly buried the beloved - was you.
The one who almost led the place called home to its destruction - was also you.
He fell down again.
The teen pressed his hand against his own wounds and retreated, until he was no longer in the man's sight.
"Before I witness your death in person, we will meet again, ███."
"When will death come for me? My patience is wearing thin."
Blade's Theme
------------------------------------------------------------------------- Name: Silver Wolf Titles: Character Details:
The universe is just another game to this super hacker.
No matter how thorny the defense system, Silver Wolf can crack it with ease. Her hacking battle with Screwllum of the Genius Society has become stuff of legends in the hacking world.
How many more levels are there to beat in the universe? Silver Wolf looks forward to finding out Character Stories I and II:
Story I:
She toyed with the joystick, day in, day out.
A fast food restaurant with only one employee, a basement turned into an arcade hall, several old arcade machines — this was her childhood.
She didn't have a legal name or an identity number, only a nickname the proprietress chose for her.
She did not have any friends, but she is not lonely.
She liked the game of Pong — two lines and a dot of light, the simplest of ball games. She could play it for a whole day.
She liked Battle Wheel 32 — eight blocks of different colors on a matrix-drawn sky. There was only one rule: Win, no matter what.
She liked Geometric Wars, Odysseus, and Star Cheetah. The score records on these games were filled with astronomical numbers left by other patrons.
She toyed with the joystick, day in, day out.
Until one day, only one name remained on all of the score records.
She set down the joystick and looked around the empty basement.
Many people have sought respite in this place, but few stayed behind.
Many have left, but few returned.
She blinked and turned off the screen.
That night, the only employee of the fast food restaurant said goodbye to proprietress, and became the next person to leave.
The game called Basement ended that night.
Story II:
She traveled west through the barren land, arriving at Mount Scrap.
She wants to find a job, but was obstructed by her tendency to be a loner.
On Punklorde, almost everyone works in teams. Loners usually don't last long.
Acquiescing to her situation, she fabricated some virtual partners.
Her first one was called Friend. Of course it was.
Her second was Demon Lord, inspired by a poster she saw on the streets. In her imagination, it was a veteran who had lost the ability to speak.
She suddenly thought this team was too harmonious and lacked realism, so she named the third one Whitecollar and the fourth Servant.
Her final one was called Preschool Classmate — there wasn't a special meaning attached to this. She just really ran out of ideas. After much deliberation, she deleted this last person from her list.
She stored her "partners" in an intelligent weapon, so she could pompously introduce her sizable team to intermediaries.
She got her first job — its risk was as unimaginable as its reward.
Maybe she sold herself too well that people believed her, or they just wanted to see this newbie's performance, dead or alive.
On Punklorde, almost everyone works in teams. Loners usually don't last long.
Those who could last would eventually become legends.
After 24 system hours, she walked out of the Slag Gang's base — alone and through the front gate.
The intermediary was silent. They looked at her, then at the sky, before turning around to toss a chest full of gold ingots on the ground.
The game called Mount Scrap ended that day.
"Can you let me have some fun this time?"
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Name: Sam (Firefly) Titles: Character Details:
Sam is a remnant of Glamoth's Iron Cavalry — a genetically engineered warrior that possesses superhuman perception. Some time ago, Elio ordered them and Kafka to find Blade and return with him. Sam was the one who held Blade down while Kafka convinced him to join them. They also went with Blade and Kafka to recruit Silver Wolf.
According to Silver Wolf, if a person comes home and turns on the lights, while Kafka and Blade would be sitting on the couch waiting for them, Sam wouldn't even give them the chance to turn on the lights.
They later make a return on the Planet of Festivities, challenging a "Galaxy Ranger", a Memokeeper, and the Trailblazer to a fiery fight.
Later on in the story, it is revealed that Sam's true identity is Firefly. Character Stories I and II: Currently none
"Fireflies are such magical creatures, aren't they? They may throw themselves at a flame or suddenly grow old, but every night before that, they will shine brighter than the stars."
Sam's Theme
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04/27/2024 03:30 PM
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Xianzhou Character list!
Name: Tingyun Titles: Character Details:
A silver-tongued Foxian girl, Tingyun is the Head Representative of the Whistling Flames, a merchant guild officially approved by the Sky-Faring Commission.
She has such a way with words that often leaves her audience eagerly waiting for more of her captivating tales. As a result of her supervision, the Xianzhou trade fairs are now known throughout the galaxy.
"Try one's best to avoid conflict when possible, and persuade those who can be persuaded" — that's Tingyun's motto. Character Stories I and II:
Story I:
here's a saying: "Foxians are born to do business." Linger a little while at the Sleepless Earl teahouse, and you'll come to appreciate this fact.
"There's something you don't know," says that Foxian woman, wafting her exquisite reticulated fan as she gazes at the skeptical man before her, "different lands raise their special type of life. If Sandcitrus seeds from the Bitterwater Confederacy are transplanted into the sacred soils of Vonwacq, then they will grow into sweet oranges. This is naturally due to the fertile and balanced soils of Vonwacq. And if the lightfish fry from Thalassa are introduced to my world and raised by the Vidyadhara at Scalegorge Waterscape, they can double in size to over three feet long."
"The Whistling Flames' latest plan is to carefully select species with commercial potential, and relay them via trade starskiffs for safe transport. Within one month, you'll get the first batch of goods back. These goods would add to the glamours of the crystal palace at the bottom of the Thalassan abyss, and can even become a unique trading products for your nation."
The man with gills blows out a few bubbles, which represents a slightly hesitant agreement in his culture. Then, his larynx pronounces some wondrous syllables: "I thought the Whistling Flames were speculative traders involved in arbitrage. Are you planning to change the current situation in the logistics industry, where the IPC reigns supreme? Tell me, how much do you want?"
"For a return service, we take ninety percent. A broker just flips product from one hand to the other. Or rather, from one finned limb to the other. As the saying goes, "Real business talks no profit." Only by benefiting others can we hope to benefit ourselves. As long as the Lord of the Abyss in the Crystal Palace assents, then I'd like to enter into a contr— Ahem, I mean a permanent partnership. What do you say?"
On this day, Tingyun not only closed on a deal, but also formed a new friendship for the Alliance.
Story II:
Tingyun was always different from the others.
Foxians are synonymous with the quick and the agile. Their lightning-fast reflexes and keen senses have resulted in this, and it also makes for cheeky, playful juvenile Foxians. But Tingyun? This pointy-eared girl always looks fluffy and soft. Not only does she not vigorously pull on others' fur when meeting someone, she herself remains calm even if someone pulls on her fur. With an innocent smile and her sweet voice, she would even urge the other person to stop...
It's not hard to understand differences in human nature. But compared to her Foxian peers all busy tearing up their homes, Tingyun — who'd never been any good at combat — frustrated her parents who both served in the military at the Sky-Faring Commission. Seeing as Tingyun wouldn't inherit the family business, the two shook off their prejudices and let their daughter blossom freely...
As a result, a dazzling new star of trade dawned aboard the Xianzhou Luofu. With her warm personality and talented skills, this Foxian girl successively completed trade missions to sixteen different planets, and re-signed another bilateral agreement with the IPC. The famous Xianzhou trade bonanza — the Grand Fair — also developed into a famous fiesta under her advocacy.
"In business, it's best to work with persuadable types. For those who are less persuadable, cooling them down with a fan works wonders."
Tingyun's Theme -------------------------------------------------------------------------
Name: Yukong Titles: Character Details:
The Xianzhou Luofu's Head of the Sky-Faring Commission is gentle, yet seasoned and authoritative.
Having been a pilot since young, she had become the commission's head with her outstanding combat achievements, yet she no longer flies due to a particularly brutal battle.
Now, her shine had already dimmed as she shifted her focus to official duties, but she is always seen guiding the course of the Luofu. Character Stories I and II:
Story I:
"You know, only three kinds of people can work for the Sky-Faring Commission. Those who have the gift of gab, those who seek excitement, and those who crave to return to the stars — no exceptions."
We are different from the Xianzhou natives with their unending lives. Even though Foxians are also considered a long-life species, our lives span only three centuries. Therefore, many of us are more passionate about enjoying the fun in life — chasing the best moments in life with all our heart and soul.
Me? I am currently 246 years old. I am one step into my grave and have long gone past my days of merriment. You might know of my decisive and dashing ways when I was younger. In the tales of older Xianzhou natives, you might even hear of my achievement — such as running six consecutive red lights.
I had just become an adult back then, and I was dragged in front of the general for the infringement... Guess what happened? The general wanted me to join the Sky-Faring Commission purely because of my piloting prowess, and he thought I was going to make it big in the Sky-Faring Commission.
Back then, he used to call me the "Delinquent Girl." Later on, they all called me "Ace."
Story II:
"Old decrepits are useless, like torn strips of clothes hanging on a wooden stick."
Years ago, I heard an old poem not from here. Its structure, rhyme, and form were different from Xianzhou poems. I don't like it, but this particular sentence stayed with me, like a ghost I could not chase away.
I've witnessed how Outworlders age, how their skin sag, their muscles shrink, how their brains degenerate irreversibly, how their bones weaken, and their eyes cloud over...
I can understand their envy towards us. I used to think the same way, that we will never grow old, that we will maintain the same appearance of youth.
Every time we head out for a battle, I always promise my comrades, "You just worry about holding onto your weapon. I'll bring you back to Xianzhou."
But I broke my promise. After that fateful battle, only I returned to the Sky-Faring Commission, dragging my own damaged body.
I can never return. I understood that then.
From then on, I tunnel-visioned on official documents, abandoning any dream of returning to the sky.
I grew old.
"Some were born to be poets, some to be warriors — I was born to mingle among the stars."
Luofu Battle Theme -------------------------------------------------------------------------
Name: Huohuo (& Tail) Titles: Character Details:
While this Foxian girl may seem fragile and weak, she is actually a judge-in-training of the Ten-Lords Commission, responsible for capturing evil.
The judges sealed a heliobus named "Tail" onto her tail, making her a "Cursed One" with a tendency to attract evil beings.
Despite trembling at the sight of evil spirits, she is always entrusted with the arduous task of eradicating their presence.
She is well aware of her incompetence but lacks the courage to resign, so she forces herself to press on despite her fear. Character Stories I and II:
Story I:
When Huohuo awakes at the Ten-Lords Commission, she finds herself confronted not with novelty, but with an atmosphere that sent shivers down her spine.
Sensing her unease, a white-haired judge addresses her with gentleness.
"Tell me, little girl, how did you come across that fire?"
"...It was along the roadside and about to extinguish, so I... I wished to help it."
"So you put that fire on your tail? Why did you do that?"
"I... I don't know... It happened before I realized it... I'm so sorry."
"You don't need to apologize, kind-hearted girl. However, you'll be under our custody from now onwards."
"Th—Thank you, Madam."
"Call me Hanya."
"Ah, thank you, Madam Hanya. I... my name is Huohuo."
The thoughts of the judge named Hanya wandered back to a few days ago.
The Ten-Lords Commission received a distress call, and she took the task to locate the Foxian girl who was about to be consumed by a heliobus. At the moment, Hanya couldn't repel the heliobus by force without posing a threat to Huohuo, who was still a little girl. As a result, she had to seal the heliobus onto the girl's tail. Fortunately, the heliobus decided to start from her tail, giving Hanya a chance to save her life.
"...Was my decision right or wrong?"
Hanya mutters to herself.
Story II:
While the heliobus is short-tempered and arrogant, it is not impossible to communicate with. It could not tolerate Huohuo's sobbing and wailing, and didn't quite understand how Foxians socialize — for example, it didn't understand why the girl would be ostracized by her classmates due to "her tail being on fire."
"You! Tear off that talisman!"
"No! Madam Hanya said the talisman must not be removed under any circumstances..."
"Did you hear them? How dare they mock me!? I've never been humiliated like this before!"
"No... they're not mocking you... but me..."
"Then you go teach them a lesson yourself. If you can't avenge me for this insult, then don't talk to me anymore."
"B—But... I'm scared..."
"Alright, fine. You know what? Just take a deep breath, make your mind go blank, and don't think about anything. I'll handle this problem for you."
"B—But... Madam Hanya said... the talisman must not be removed..."
"Don't worry. Just do what I say."
...When she regained consciousness, the legend of "the possessed demoness" was already circulating.
After that, Huohuo went and found out a lot about the heliobus' past. Eons ago, a heliobus named Ignamar was defeated by a Luofu general and fragmented into numerous shards, then sealed in the Creation Furnace. This particular shard escaped, and it represents the arrogant side of Ignamar and wouldn't condescend to possessing anything, living as a vagabond for centuries... until Huohuo chanced upon it in its utter exhaustion.
"Then I'll call you 'Tail' to avoid unwanted attention..."
The heliobus said nothing, its silence being a sign of acquiescence.
"I can use this banner to dispel demons... but it also comes in handy when signaling my surrender..."
Huohuo's Theme -------------------------------------------------------------------------
Name: Jing Yuan Titles: The Divine Foresight Character Details:
The Divine Foresight, one of the Seven Arbiter-Generals. Although his appearance may be one of indolence, he is more meticulous than seemingly meets the eye. He does not consider saving a situation from the brink of disaster to be a show of wisdom, and is thus fastidious with routine affairs to avoid any potential problems. Due to his careful management, Xianzhou has enjoyed many years of peace, with Jing Yuan's seemingly lazy demeanor having earned him the moniker of the "Dozing General." Character Stories I and II:
Story I:
"Master Diviner, why do we use a square board but round pieces for starchess?"
"Perhaps it's based around the round sky and square earth? Ancient civilizations believed the earth was flat. This set is modeled after the old days of nation-states and imperial conquest over a singular planet, so naturally it's square. As for the pieces... People back then believed the sky was a round dome, and chess pieces spun around like stars in that dome to reflect in human lives. That's why they are also round."
"No, no. That's incorrect."
"I've already predicted your next forty-eight moves. Jing Yuan, if you want to distract me with questions, I urge you to stop."
"Ah, how could you suspect such malice?"
"Don't interrupt me. Keep talking."
"It's true that chess is a metaphor and describes the human condition. The rules of war are clearly established, with each piece's actions fixed — advance, retreat, and jump. Advance or retreat is always in an orderly manner, which is why the board's square in its orderliness. As for the pieces, the sages said "use intellect with subtlety and suaveness." As each piece is meant to be sentient individuals, they are therefore circular."
"The origins of starchess are covered in the Gleaned Pearls of Verdure. I've read lots, Jing Yuan — why are you brazenly lying to me!"
"Cloud Knight moves to C3, taking your King. You lost, Lady Fu."
"Hang on! How did I not see this in my predictions? B—Back up. Let me see that move again."
"Chess pieces are like people. Each has its own sentience. There is no going back on the chessboard. How can anyone return to the past? Haha, how can the head of a Commission act like a sore loser?"
Story II:
Of an alliance spanning six mighty Xianzhou ships, the Cloud Knights emerged out of the ashes of the Flaming Catastrophe. They swore an oath to defend the Xianzhou ships and follow Reignbow's decree of The Hunt, a tradition carried out to this day. Despite the incredible longevity of long-life species, few generals have been able to pass the century mark after taking up the mantle due to the bloody nature of warfare. This is not so much fate as it is tradition. As the armed defenders of Xianzhou against crusading abominations, generals not only must take the lead for planning and dispatching, but also take the lead into battle. Amidst countless names erased too quickly and too cruelly in the annals of history, the Divine Foresight Jing Yuan, leader of the Cloud Knights of the Xianzhou Luofu, stands out from the rest with his centuries-old reign. Under his wise strategy, the Luofu's Cloud Knights have made a name for themselves among the Alliance, achieving an exemplary record. While there are those who complained that he feared combat so much so that he seldom resorted to arms, it remains true that his intellect is no less resourceful than the tip of the sharpest sword in solving thorny problems.
"A truly masterful chess player has no brilliant moves. People clamor excitedly over displays of extreme cunning, forgetting to worry about the overall dangers of the situation." Jing Yuan's Theme
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Name: Luocha Titles: Character Details:
An elegant and handsome blond young man who carries a giant coffin on his back.
As an intergalactic merchant, he was unfortunately caught in the Xianzhou Luofu's Stellaron crisis.
And that is how he found his mastery of medicine to come in handy. Character Stories I and II:
Story I:
"What's your occupation?"
"Traveling merchant."
"What is the purpose of your entry?"
"Commercial business."
"Do you vow not to violate the laws and regulations of the Xianzhou Alliance, to conduct business activities in accordance with the law, and not to conduct activities outside the scope of the visa permit?"
"Of course. I will follow the law."
"Do you vow not to conduct any illegal research related to immortality?"
"I... promise."
"Great, please sign here."
"Mr. Luocha, welcome to the Xianzhou Luofu."
Story II:
"Hey, do you still remember that guy? Came here often, carries a huge box..."
"You mean Luocha?"
"Yeah, Luocha... He's an Outworder, right? But from the way he works and speaks, he feels like those older Xianzhou natives. Has he lived here for long? But then again, he had kept his unique and exotic fashion style..."
"Who knows? Maybe it's because his blond hair doesn't match the clothing of Xianzhou."
He would sometimes think of home.
The devils, the church, the insanity... None of those are good memories.
People would clamber to high places in groups just so they could witness their city's demise.
If everything were to end, then there shall be at least one witness.
"Why do you still wear the clothes of your home world?" Someone asked.
"It reminds me of the path I must keep treading. That is all," Luocha answered.
"This coffin isn't mine. I was merely entrusted to take the body back to the Luofu."
Luocha's Theme
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Name: Yanqing Titles: Character Details:
The spirited lieutenant of the Xianzhou Luofu, and also its most proficient swordsman.
He was born for the sword and is obsessed with it. Whenever a sword rests in Yanqing's hand, none would dare underestimate this genius still in the early days of his youth.
Perhaps the only thing capable of dulling his treasured blade's sharp edge is time. Character Stories I and II:
Story I:
Youngest lieutenant in the history of the Cloud Knights. Retainer to General Jing Yuan. Collector of antique swords from the Artisanship Commission... With all these auspicious titles and street gossip swirling around this one wunderkind, it's scarcely believable that he is still a child.
Ever since he could remember, Yanqing would follow Jing Yuan around like a shadow, helping the Seat of Divine Foresight resolve problems. And Jing Yuan in return taught him the art of swordplay — and the art of war. After years of training, Yanqing's mind is as quick and sharp as the spotless sword he keeps.
Cloud Knight combat drills attest that controlling six simultaneous flying daggers is something even Cloud Knight chief drillmasters can't master in a century. The phrase agreed among the Xianzhou people to describe the combat talents of Yanqing is "A gifted swordsman born to fight."
Story II:
It's recorded in the military annals of the Cloud Knights how Jing Yuan came to discover the young boy, stood his ground against public opinion, and incorporated him into the armed forces. However, in the family lineage column, Yanqing's lineage was relegated to the category of unknown.
Most talented officers display military talent from childhood. For millennia, several talented unicorns have emerged ahead of the pack during the hunt. However, Yanqing earned a military commission before he even reached the age of majority. Some would criticize that "the general is absurd" on this matter.
However, this genius' debut on the battlefield was even more explosive, and any critical voices soon fell silent.
When hunting near a distant star, the monstrously huge mechabeast Windguard created by the Denizens of Abundance was pulverizing defense forces as though they were ants. But this young boy met against it face-to-face, claiming its head and routing the enemy to the point of collapse.
As for subsequent victories: He broke the borisin's Devouring Wolf formation with Jing Yuan, beheading three Brood Lords. He also fought viciously against the wingweavers, ultimately sinking their almighty Cloudseizer Fleet... These are just a small footnote in the annals of his courageous swordplay.
"I only called you 'teacher' because I admire your skill in this area. Don't expect me to start taking it easy on you."
Yanqing's Theme
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04/27/2024 02:14 PM
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Jarilo-VI Character List
Name: Clara (& Svarog) Titles: Bloody Rabbit (Monitoring Automaton Prototype 3) Character Details:
A young girl raised by a robot. Her perceptiveness and tenacity are far beyond her years.
For Clara, Svarog's logical calculations are the laws of the world and are infallible.
That is, until she realizes that the results from the calculations don't always necessarily bring joy to everyone.
The once shy little girl then decides to cast aside her timidness. Character Stories I and II:
Story I:
"— Log ██/██/████ AF."
"A female child discovered in a landfill to the southeast of Boulder Town."
"Scans show the child has no structural damage or functional issues, but her mental state was relatively unstable. She is resistant to questions about her condition and clearly wanted to avoid the subject."
"I have continued attempting to communicate with her, and successfully obtained some information."
"The child begins to cry, lasting three hours and seven minutes."
"The child's name is Clara. Her background is unknown."
"Conclusion: Take her back to base for observations, and collect further information to generate a follow-up plan to take care of her."
Story II:
"— Log ██/██/████ AF."
"Clara has grown proficient in the Belobog common tongue, and displays great talent in the field of mechanical engineering — but she still resists communication with other humans. Assessment: this tendency is detrimental to Clara's long-term development in Belobog."
"There is currently an urgent need to develop a suitable socialization and communication program for Clara. Priority: High."
"— Log ████/██/██ AF."
"Clara has successfully made contact with an individual of similar age in Boulder Town. The individual is named Hook, and claims to be the head manager of the local security organization The Moles. No information about this organization has been found in my database."
"Clara's contact with Hook didn't go well at first. She displayed considerable shyness. However, Hook managed to keep the conversation going with extreme enthusiasm and empathy, calling Clara an 'honorary member of The Moles.' After contact, Clara described Hook as 'her first friend.'"
"This matter is of tremendous significance to Clara, and this log has been tagged Important."
"Mr. Svarog... is my family."
"Stay back, Clara."
Clara and Svarog's theme ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Name: Gepard Landau Titles: Stout Defender of the Union Character Details:
The honorable and upstanding captain of the Silvermane Guards who bears the noble Landau family name.
In the frost-whipped city of Belobog, life can still go on in normality...
This is in no small part thanks to Gepard and his Silvermane Guards who protect the peace of everyday life. Character Stories I and II:
Story I:
The young captain stands atop the northern rampart.
He surveys the pale wastelands before him, and watches the strange beings from the Fragmentum forming a broiling swarm in the distance amid the snow. He sees the fearless Silvermane Guards lining up in formation to guard the city, like a defensive parapet.
That was his original position. Back when he was still a humble private, he'd sworn to serve as Belobog's strongest shield and pledged to live and die with his comrades. This hasn't changed when he became a captain. This isn't some fireside joke of the Silvermane Guards, because Qlipoth is testimony to this oath.
However, right at this time, he isn't where he should be — and this is at the request of the Supreme Guardian.
What exactly is the Supreme Guardian thinking? The young captain has no idea. But he soon forces himself to focus on the conflict at hand.
"Remember, Gepard Landau."
"Doubt breeds arrogance, and doubt breeds evil. As a model for Belobog, you shouldn't overthink."
Story II:
The young captain stands atop the northern rampart.
After the most epic of battles, the few surviving Silvermane guards made their way back to Belobog. The Supreme Guardian ordered an immediate parade to celebrate this hard-earned victory. For more than three days and nights, the whole city reveled in a carnival with great laughter and joy. The celebration reached its climax at an awards ceremony for the Silvermane Guards.
Under the watchful gaze of the crowds, the Supreme Guardian presented an award to the greatest soldiers for outstanding military service. This young captain from a noble house quietly puts on the arm armor forged out of Geomarrow — Light, flexible, and strong, while radiating a light reminiscent of auroras — That's the only impression he had of this treasure.
How many of his comrades' lives had been exchanged for such a glorious medal? He forces himself not to think about it. For now, he could only meet the expectations of the Supreme Guardian and all of Belobog with a smile — because this is what a loyal soldier must do.
The moment the captain finishes putting on the arm armor, a brilliant beam of light shoots out from the joints between the plates. The crowd erupts into a spontaneous and prolonged applause.
Nobody sees the weary faces beneath the helmets of those Silvermane Guards — they merely thought this is a triumphant victory.
"Loyalty isn't an inherent virtue of humans. As such, the recipient of that loyalty also needs to be worthy."
Gepard's theme ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Name: Luka Titles: Luka Strongarm Character Details:
An optimistic and carefree fighter with a mechanical arm. Skilled in mixed martial arts and is a Wildfire member.
From the fight cage to the battlefield, and from a fighter to a warrior, Luka uses his strength to protect the people of the Underworld.
He wishes to bring hope to others precisely because he had experienced despair himself. Character Stories I and II:
Story I:
He lifts the steel hammer over and over.
Sparks erupt before his eyes, and the clang of metal against metal mutes the thuds of moving muscle and joints. The boy is not yet tall enough to reach at the top of the steel cabinet, but the power with which he swings the steel hammer can already that of the most skilled craftsmen.
The shop is his entire life, with his father squatting next to the door and repeatedly cleaning the rusted old shop sign.
Sometimes he would lie on his hard bed and imagine his future — but no matter where his mind wandered, his father's figure would always appear in his thought at the end.
he temporarily puts down his work as footsteps approach. His father stands up, and the older man's stout but bowed figure moves with a hint of groveling flattery. It's those people from Wildfire again. Ever since Moletammerville went under a curfew, they have been frequenting this shop and have increased the number of orders for various weapons.
As the boy thinks about this, he happens to stare into the eyes of that regular old customer who acts as the leader of the group. That man's skin is tanned and he stands tall, his sharp gaze immediately softens when he locks eyes with the boy.
Then, he nods imperceptibly at the boy.
"Welcome, Chief Oleg! How can I help you today?"
"Patience, my good sir. I'm just here for a chat today." The man points at Luka. "A chat about your son."
Story II:
There is fire all around him, and the thick black smoke makes it hard to see. He keeps hearing screams and screeches as the fused scent of machine oil and blood sweeps over his nostrils. Luka tries hard to push down the urge to vomit.
The smile that Oleg put on his face when Luka swung a perfect straight punch for the first time inspired Luka. However, once the boy had experienced to cruelty of the front lines first-hand, he never regained that warm feeling in his heart. Luka would secretly observe his comrades' expressions every time they lined up for action — and the apprehension he saw on those faces would actually sooth his own anxiety.
A scream pulls Luka back to reality. He rushes toward where the sound came from and sees a helpless child being backed into a corner by a monster. Instinctively, he leaps out and puts himself between the sharp ax and the child's fragile form.
A loud blast sounds from behind him. Luka hugs the panicked boy with one arm and slowly turns his head. The mutated monster had fallen to the ground, seemingly hit in the vitals by a stray bullet.
"Th-Thank you... mister..."
"Are you okay? Are you hurt anywhere?"
"Mister... your... your arm..."
His eyes follow the direction the child is pointing at. The sleeve that should have covered his upper right arm has been reduced to a shred of broken fabric, and blood is pouring out of his severed limb.
However, before he faints from the pain, he could once again feel that warmth swelling up in his heart.
"Tell you a secret — the trick to becoming a champion is training hard while everyone is resting."
Fight Club Theme ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Name: Lynx Landau Titles: Character Details:
The youngest daughter of the Landau family, and one of Belobog's best extreme environments explorers.
She is highly capable of action despite her apparent lack of motivation. She only appears introverted and lazy to avoid unnecessary socialization.
As for what counts as unnecessary socialization — "Um, aren't all socialization unnecessary?" Character Stories I and II:
Story I:
Scenes from the Snow Plains are far from to the daily lives of Belobogians. So far that a girl could only see them in her dreams.
During the days of her education, she always read about how the world before the Eternal Freeze was vast and varied. However, when Lynx asked her teachers for more details, they would always respond with an exasperated expression: "Only the deepest parts of the Snow Plains hold the answers to that..."
Lynx often heard from the teacher about the outlandish phenomena known as "aurora" in geography class. She found herself imagining the variegation and capricious alterations of that band of light. But when she asked her teacher why she couldn't witness such a sight within the confines the city, they would always respond with an exasperated expression: "Unfortunately, the aurora can only be observed in the deepest parts of the Snow Plains..."
The girl was never able to get the answers she so desired for that vast world.
However, if her teachers were correct, then the answers behind everything could be found hidden in the Snow Plains.
So, wouldn't simply venturing into its depths personally be the resolution?
"So... I've decided that I want to go explore the depths of the Snow Plains!"
"Huh?"
"What?"
Story II:
"Lynx, you know how cold it is outside Belobog..."
"...It's not big deal, Gepard. I got warm clothes and a heater. I'm all ready."
"But the Snow Plains aren't just dangerous because of the extreme weather. There are also all kinds of vicious monsters there..."
"...That's not big deal. Don't worry. Ran into some of them a few times when I was with the patrols before. I can handle them."
"Wait, when was that?"
"Uh..."
"Agh... Serval, give me a hand here. She's your sister too."
"Huh? Oh, she should get to do what she wants to do. Seeing our little Lynxy be such a go-getter about what she wants makes me real proud to be her sister..."
"...Hehe, thanks, sis."
"But Gepard's right: You need to pay attention to your safety when you're exploring the outside alone. Don't! Push! Yourself! Here, take these things too..."
"...What's this stuff?"
"This is the 'Vanguard' climbing pick you said you wanted to get last month. But don't you worry, your sister's got your back. I might've made a small redesign to it, but I promise it works well. Also, this is new 'Pathfinder' series snowboard from your brother. And, oh, this water bottle — a Goethe Hotel annual exclusive make. I changed the shoulder strap to your appropriate measurements and added some decorations. Also — also! These energy bars and food cans can fill you right up..."
"Uh, didn't you promise not to tell her about the snowboard."
"Agh, this really isn't the time to be stuck on that!"
"Anyway, remember to use these well and keep yourself protected out there. You hear me? I want to hear you promise!"
"...Alright, I promise!"
"In the Landau family, things are simple: If you wanna do something, go do it."
Wildfire by the Landau family ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Name: Natasha Titles: Character Details:
A fastidious doctor who always wears an enigmatic smile.
In the Underworld where medical resources are scarce, Natasha is one of the very few doctors whom the people can turn to.
Even the rambunctious Hook would politely greet her... "Hi, big sis Natasha." Character Stories I and II:
Story I:
"Quick, press down here! Press down hard to staunch the bleeding!"
Natasha shoots a panicked look at her brother. Before her lay a man covered in bandages from head to toe, his torso twitching and twisting with severe pain as he muttered nonsense.
"What are you waiting for?! Quick, hold it down!"
There is anger in her brother's order and — she is sharp enough to tell — a hint of disappointment. Natasha hurries to hold onto the man's right arm, and musters all her strength to press down the cotton gauze onto his shoulder.
The man lets out a heart-wrenching moan, but she can't stop until her brother orders her to.
After who knows how long, the patient before her stops breathing, and she stares blankly at the lifeless body.
"You did your best," her brother says. His voice returning to its usual impassive tone. "Get some rest real quick. Some of them are still waiting to be patched up."
She turns over the man's red palm. His fingers are already stiff as the stench of blood fills the air. Natasha allows the smell to rile up her emotions — she know she must get used to this if she were to continue down this road.
Story II:
"Excellent... excellent as always," the professor says to herself as she flips through the notes, "With your grades and clinical performance... You'll be an outstanding candidate whether you're in the hospital or in the armed forces."
Natasha's pulse races, and her fingers subconsciously clench up. The professor notices her body language.
"What's the matter, child? Have you got something to say?"
Natasha composes herself — she wants to convey her decision with confidence and conviction.
"I want to go back to the Underworld, Professor. I know I can help more people down there."
The old woman is stunned for a brief moment, before slowly pushing her glasses upwards. Then, she lowers her head and continues on reading the file she is holding.
"I see. That's exactly what your mother said... I wish you all the best then, Natasha."
Natasha stands up and solemnly bows. As she walks through that white corridor at Belobog Medical Academy for the last time, her heart is filled with determination.
"Where's a doctor when you need one?" ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Name: Sampo Koski Titles: Character Details:
A silver tongued salesman. Where there is profit to be made, you can be sure Sampo is nearby.
The information that only Sampo possesses makes it hard not to approach him for help, but becoming his "customer" is not necessarily a good thing.
After all, "customers" can quickly turn into "commodities" for the right price Character Stories I and II:
Story I:
Hello everyone! This is Brughel Poisson from the Crystal Daily, and I'm here at the Fountain Plaza in the Administrative District. Standing next to me is someone who calls themselves a member of the Dark-Blue Scam Victims' Association, and I am about to conduct a short interview with him."
"Hello There, sir. Could you please tell me and the audience about your experience of getting scammed?"
"Oh... I'm so utterly enraged! That blue-haired punk... I hope he dies!"
"Sir, we're live right now... please calm down."
"Ahem... Fine. The Crystal Daily, right? That's it. you should report more on the suffering of everyday people and pay less attention to gossip about the Architects..."
"I'm telling you, that blue-haired punk has slipped off into the Administrative District again! Yesterday he pinched three catties of rye bread spices from my store — Three whole catties! Do you know how long those will last for the dignitaries? Next thing, he'll be robbing a spice factory!"
"Please calm down, sir! We sympathize deeply with your plight. Now then, you just mentioned the Belobog spice factory, didn't you?"
"Err... Sure, I mentioned it. Was that important?"
"This factory... are you able to tell me its exact location?"
"Err... Why?"
"Well you see, as journalists, we want to contribute to social justice causes — and only by knowing the exact location can our Silvermane Guards and righteous citizens reduce burglaries. Wouldn't you agree?"
"Err... That makes sense. Then listen up, the address of the factory is..."
Story II:
"Name."
"Alexey. Alexey Bulger."
"Rank."
"Private First-Class."
"Hello, Private First-Class Alexey. I'm Brughel Poisson, senior human resources specialist for the Silvermane Guards. Captain Gepard asked me to approve your application for personal leave."
"It's a pleasure to meet you, Madam Brughel."
"Let's see... It says here that you were wounded four months ago during a defensive operation, with a total of five fractures... Yet despite all this, you have continued to carry out your duties right up until now. Admirable!"
"Thank you, Madam Brughel."
"You guard the... 3rd Arsenal at the Silvermane Guard Restricted Zone, yes? Terrific! As far as I know, that's an extremely important military zone where the most expensive... Ahem, the most valuable Silvermane military resources are stored."
"You're right, ma'am."
"Let me see... Hmm, no problem. Private First-Class Alexey, at this stage you are cleared to go home next Tuesday."
"...What, so soon? As far as I know, this kind of high-level guard duty usually takes at least a month to process handovers —"
"...Don't worry, Private First-Class. I appreciate your determination to the cause, but nothing is more important to me than protecting the physical and mental well-being of one of our best Silvermane Guards! Don't worry, I've already picked out someone to fill in for you, so everything's taken care of."
"...I understand. Thank you very much, ma'am."
"That's the one! Remember, next Tuesday — I want you and your luggage out of the restricted zone before 20:17!"
"Wherever there is business, there is Sampo."
Boulder City Theme ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Name: Seele Titles: Butterfly of Tempest Character Details:
"A spirited and valiant member of Wildfire who grew up in the perilous Underworld of Belobog. She is accustomed to being on her own.
The protectors and the protected, the oppressors and the oppressed... The world Seele grew up knowing was just a simple dichotomy...
That is, until "that girl" appeared." Character Stories I and II:
Story I:
Seele's first fight in her life was for herself.
Back then, she would wander around aimlessly through the alleyways each day. When she was thirsty, she'd beg for water at the Orphanage. When she was hungry, she'd swap scraps she found with the merchants for biscuits. Everyone in the dark side of Rivet Town knew that fearless homeless girl, and everyone was keen to avoid this wild, stubborn little rascal.
One hot evening, she felt very thirsty from playing too much. She arrived at the Orphanage to discover the bucket containing water from the well was almost empty. Another shriveled homeless man was also there trying to get a drink — and after a power struggle which involved fists and even teeth, the man fled and Seele earned the right to slake her thirst alone.
Seele saw the man three days later. Through the window of the clinic, she saw that wizened figure at death's door, lying on a stretcher.
Ever since then, she's always left a little water in the bucket for the people coming later.
Story II:
As a child, Seele only ever went up to the Overworld once. That was after she'd met Oleg — who at the time was still captain of the Underworld's Silvermane Guards. Oleg hid Seele in his supply bag one day and took her up to the Overworld by cable car to give her a peek at the city she yearned for.
Seele followed Oleg around the sights of Belobog, eating delicious foods and dressing up in splendid clothes beyond her wildest imagination. She scared off a group of kids with her uncouth miner slang, which caused Oleg to burst out into laughter. Those two short days were full of joy and laughter.
Before leaving that evening, they sat on a bench in the Executive Plaza as Seele stared at the restaurant opposite them.
"Was the Overworld fun, Seele? Wanna come back again later?"
"Can I ask you something?"
"...What's up? Ask away."
"Those Overworlders are only eating half their meal, and threw the rest away."
"..."
"Do they know that people down below haven't got enough food to eat?"
"..."
Oleg saw how a look of gloom passed over her tender face.
"Let's go back, Oleg. I don't want to come back here again."
"To use our strength to create a fair society... Isn't that the obvious goal?"
Seele's Theme
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04/27/2024 01:18 PM
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Space Station and Express Muses
Name: Herta
Titles: Number 83 of the Genius Society
Character Details:
"Herta space station's true master.
As the human with the highest IQ on the Blue, she only does what she's interested in, dropping projects the moment she loses interest — the best example being the space station.
She typically appears in the form of a remote-controlled puppet.
"It's about seventy percent similar to how I looked as a child." — Herta"
Character Stories I and II:
Madam Herta's manuscripts are extremely valuable assets.
Its core rarity is not in how Madam Herta rarely pens to paper, but because to a genius like her, nothing is ever worth recording.
Scientific research that would take normal researchers ten years — or even a lifetime — to achieve may be able to shed light on an entirely new domain of research, but they are to Herta as ordinary as turning on a LED light. Who would waste time trying to systematically record such trivial matters?
It's not just Madam Herta — any documentation written by a Genius Society member is a priceless treasure. However, Herta is more generous and more understanding toward normal people like us. She leaves her handwritten drafts behind in random places around the space station with as much generosity as she allows researchers to study the Curios she collected.
Of course, we all firmly understand that Madam Herta isn't being lazy and just discarding incomplete drafts around the place. It's so she can claim to investors with plausible deniability that "I've finished writing that paper, but can't find it anywhere."
"I'm already perfect, so what else should I do?"
Herta Space Station Theme -------------------------------------------------------------------------
Name: Himeko
Titles: Starward Explorer
Character Details:
"An adventurous scientist who encountered the Astral Express as a young woman when it got stranded in her homeworld.
Years later, when Himeko finally repaired the Express and began her journey into the stars, she realized that this is only the beginning. On her journey to trailblaze new worlds, she would need many more companions...
And while they may have different destinations, they all gaze at the same starry sky."
Character Stories I and II:
The girl is lost.
She can't remember when she became lost. She just walked and walked, on and on into the dark night, chasing the sun and the moon, over and over again — until she falls.
She remembers what she looked like as a college freshman, remembers her chosen major — interstellar travel dynamics — and now she's lying face down in the mud.
She looks up to the stars, and just then sees meteors streaming down: one, two, three... And then more, smaller ones, flickering and flashing ever so finely before a magnificent blaze tore open the night.
Her limbs drag her forward, leading her on to where the land meets the ocean. At the shoreline, the waters jostle against her like how the tide treats that stranded Express, alone and lost.
She walks in and see the scenery outside beginning to change. The Express shows her a myriad of magnificent worlds. They are faraway, beyond her homeworld, yet also close enough to be a simple train ride.
She tries to repair the Express. It starts up only briefly, but it is enough to skid across the sky of her home. She immediately sees the path home. From that altitude, the journey is so short, and even the ocean of her homeworld appears so insignificant.
It asked her whether she'd like to travel together. She wonders what kind of journey that would be.
"A journey to the beginning."
"Let's go then." Without hesitation, the girl replied, "Just as you brought me home, so would I take you home, too."
Himeko has a suitcase.
This suitcase is her treasure trove. Previously, she'd filled it with all kinds of train repair tools to fix up the Express. But now, it's packed with a molecular saw, an escaped satellite, and countless other contraptions — the embodiment of her whims and the proof of her resolute will.
No travel companion is more faithful to her than this suitcase. Passengers come and go on the Express, and perhaps not even "the conductor" would be able to accompany her and the Express from start to finish.
But she doesn't care. She didn't care when that pretentious blond man left without saying goodbye, just like how she didn't care about her distant homeworld and old friends.
She knows that this journey is lonely. Even if she could get to know like-minded travel companions, even if they showed her generous grace, even if she could witness the end of a complete journey with those companions — that's all just a momentary fluke.
She knows that this journey is lonely. Nobody can follow in the exact same footsteps as anyone else. Nobody can experience for someone else everything that happens along a journey. All she can rely on are her own two eyes and feet.
That's why she stores inside her suitcase all the sights her eyes have witnessed, and all the footprints her feet have left behind.
"Alright, crew! This world is the target of our next trailblazing expedition!"
Himeko Theme
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Name: Welt Yang (Joachim Nokianvirtanen)
Titles: In the Name of the World
Character Details:
The wise and sophisticated former Anti-Entropy Sovereign who inherits the name of the world — Welt. He has saved Earth from annihilation time and time again.
After the incident with St. Fountain came to a close, Welt had no choice but to venture with the initiator of the incident to the other side of the portal.
Perhaps even he didn't expect the new journey nor companions that awaited him there.
Character Stories I and II:
On the way to the portal, Welt took out a pen and started outlining a sketch. For the eight years prior to that moment, he'd been repeating this job.
Going back further in time, he would construct objects in a different way, as long as the images could be pictured in his mind. But he could never regard that as "creation," because they were just the way the original is. Those had nothing to do with his mind.
This is just the duty of the man who inherited the name of the world. If the world needs him to save it, then he will become that hero without hesitation. He has fallen down many times and been mocked even more, but he will always stand before everyone either in the past or the future — he will never change.
Only now, he finds himself embarking on a new journey.
When Welt returned to that dangerous cosmic battlefield, he could feel his blood start to boil once more.
Even when his spaceship lost power and was drifting aimlessly through space, he joked casually with his companion: "The end of one adventure is often the beginning of another."
When a passing-by Himeko managed to save them and informed them that they couldn't go back home, he kept up his jokes: "This is like something out of a cartoon, and it's far too coincidental to be real."
Life really is this coincidental.
Since he can't find his way back home and can't live out a peaceful existence for the time being, why doesn't he take up arms again and fight?
This time, there is no burden or destiny to bear. Everything shall obey his own will.
"The galaxy is vast beyond compare, containing an infinite number of possibilities. An individual's fate shouldn't be limited to a single path ordained by heaven."
Welt's theme-------------------------------------------------------------------------Name: March 7th
Titles: (It's March, what do you want me to say, huh!? I have nothing to say about her! Shut up!)
Character Details:
A spirited and quirky young girl who is into all the things girls her age are interested in, such as taking photos.
She was awakened from a piece of drifting eternal ice, only to find that she knows nothing about herself or her past. Though initially feeling dejected, she decided to name herself after the date of her rebirth.
And thus, on that day, March 7th was born.
Character Stories I and II:
Why does March 7th take photos?
"First of all, girls like me should like this kind of pastime."
"Besides, I won't forget anything that I keep a photo of."
What has March 7th come to learn about photography?
"Number one, when taking pictures of terrible cuisines, all the details must be clearly visible on the pictures because 'Taking pictures of food is equal to eating them. Every detail matters.'"
"Number two, as long as you take a picture with your eyes closed, you will be able to capture an expression of your subject with their eyes closed."
Why is March 7th always wearing her camera?
"Because if anyone ever seals me away in ice again, at least I'll have my camera with me!"
So why doesn't March 7th just use the camera on her phone?
"Oh yeah, why not — hang on, it's because of that sense of formality!"
March 7th's ability is "Six-Phased Ice", but she has always insisted that it is not ice but some kind of condensed crystal.
"Come on, ice can't be this beautiful."
The bows and arrows March 7th uses in battle are also made of the Six-Phased Ice, but she is not satisfied with the fact that her weapon is a bow.
"Great warriors never use bows!"
"Besides, if I use my ice arrow to attack my ice shield, nothing will happen at all!"
March 7th has also worked hard to practice a unique skill called "Star Crazing: Glass Greatsword," but she never succeeded.
"March, judging by the name, it should be a greatsword, right?"
"Well, but it doesn't feel as good as an ice sculpture... smash."
"Well would you listen to that! I saved everyone without causing any trouble! You're pretty awesome, March 7th!"
March's theme
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