Nightmare: Thundering Mephis
Thundering Mephis
Flautist
Story & Voice
Lore beats, character story moments, and voice lines to learn more about Calcharo.
Character Story
1"Dogs of War"
While potentially exaggerated, the rumors were not entirely unfathomable to those who knew Calcharo personally. However, the stories became even more outlandish as time passed...
"He single-handedly stopped a truck at 12; when he turned 15, his Forte made the whole New Federation shudder in fear. He even fought the entire country's cops at 18 and left unscathed..."
"His chest is home to the dead spirits, and his forehead bears curses of the gods. Beneath his feet strikes thunder, and out of his eyes shoots flames. His rage will never be quenched until heaven burns down..."
"He has been to hell and back, time and time again... He will always come as a lightning, a phantom, and reclaim everything he deserves..."
The latest rumors about Calcharo have become one of the go-to topics among the mercenary members when off-duty.
But the man himself seems unfazed... He's either desensitized already or scheming to capitalize on the rumors.
In the Lawless Zone, friends can become enemies in an instant—as common as changing air currents. Change is constant, even in the most unexpected places. What once seemed harmful can instantly become a useful tool. It all depends on how we choose to use it.
Rumors sow prejudices. Prejudices grow into misconceptions. Misconceptions produce misjudgments.
And in a cut-throat game, misjudgment of enemy strength is always a bane.
2Quid Pro Quo
He took the cash, he did the job. He promised, he delivered.
From armed protection to disposal of hazardous materials, he always got the job done flawlessly. But if his clients reneged on their end, they were in for a lifetime of being hunted by Calcharo.
Such "impartiality" earned him fear and acquiescence from other powers in the area.
Calcharo sees business as a mere exchange of values, where no job is too immoral, and no secrets are kept. Every transaction is fair game.
Nevertheless, value is not always weighed in terms of money. When faced with desperate, impoverished people begging for help, Calcharo would charge a symbolic fee of one
Never accept a deal that brings no benefits. That's Calcharo's core principle.
This approach allowed Calcharo to cultivate many eyes and ears among the common folk, creating a formidable intelligence network that spans all walks of life.
Venal, merciless, and vengeful—these are just some of the words others used to describe Calcharo. Yet even his critics admit that his network has prevented much unnecessary bloodshed. No one can be sure if a lady selling street food in an alley is one of Calcharo's informants. Any bully aiming to harm the common people must consider that before acting.
3Beast Instict
They resorted to building camps in the country's outskirts, and the place where they gathered became the "Lawless Zone".
To better survive, Exiles in the Lawless Zone formed various gangs.
Back then, a gang named the "Underdogs" quickly rose to fame.
The first members of the Underdogs were just a bunch of children around the age of 12. As children, they were bullied and ousted, until one fearless boy united them. He observed those who were bullied and invited them to join. With strategic planning and unwavering bravery, the Underdogs gained notoriety among rival gangs.
In this gang, there was no hierarchy or politics—only a primal need for survival and freedom.
However, the members died one after another: murdered by rivaling gangs, betrayed by those they trusted, or trapped by deceitful patrons.
Time showed them no mercy in the Lawless Zone. It was every man for himself.
In the end, the leader boy decided to take fate into his own hands once again, risking it all in a daring gamble for power.
...
Years later, the New Federation waged war against "the Underdogs," the last gang in the Lawless Zone. In a sudden twist, a new mercenary group known as "Ghost Hounds" annexed the "Underdogs" overnight and put an end to the chaos.
Only then did people discover that the mercenary group's leader shared a name with the former head boy of the "Underdogs."
He had returned in a horrific figure, almost like a ghost. He was surrounded by shadowy thorns, and accompanied by fearsome phantoms.
This time, he would reach the top of the ladder, and finish what he once failed to accomplish due to naivety, sympathy, and indecisiveness.
But despite all the time that had passed, he couldn't shake off the memory of that one afternoon. The sun was shining down on them as they established the Underdog in a desolate dump site.
It was a rare moment of tenderness in his life.
4Let Sleeping Dogs Lie
Though fully aware of the inherent danger in their profession, Calcharo still finds himself going over safety reminders before missions, or silently observing his team as they take on quests or report back. It's a fatherly instinct he can't shake, always worrying about their well-being despite the inevitable bloodshed.
To ensure their safety, Calcharo made a set of rules:
"Team formation is free, but members must be informed and not coerced."
"Job details must be kept secret to external parties."
"Observe local laws and regulations."
"Betrayal is forbidden, punishable by execution."
...
Behind the rules lies Calcharo's deep care for his group.
Calcharo has always known that the abyss looks back. Staying in this kill-or-be-killed business is never the best solution.
Therefore, Calcharo decided to keep a low profile and start looking for legal business ventures.
However, his caution drew threats as some new rivals attempted to replace Ghost Hounds. In an act of provocation, they severely injured a Ghost Hound recruit, breaking one of the "unstated rules" of the underworld.
The group thought they had gotten away with their actions against Calcharo, but the following day they were wiped out from the surface of the planet. The incident was dismissed as an accidental fire. No one spoke out, though everyone knew the truth.
Barking dogs do not bite, but if you cross the sleeping dog's line, it will be too late to run when it wakes and shows its teeth.
5Domestication
Because of reasons unspecified, Calcharo stumbled upon Jiyan's troops inside the borders of Huanglong.
As a seasoned mercenary, Calcharo recognized the strategic value of
After careful consideration, Jiyan accepted this mutually beneficial deal.
Jiyan advised against Calcharo wearing his previous uniform while in Jinzhou city. Instead, he suggested adapting his attire to blend in and potentially stay for a long time due to the situation.
Following diplomatic etiquette and for practicality's sake, Calcharo followed Jiyan's advice and adopted Huanglong colloquialisms and attire. While his new combat uniform was functional and flexible, the decorative ribbons and patterns perplexed him. Likewise, the Jinzhou people's unwarranted kindness left him bewildered.
Familiar with human cruelty, Calcharo could not help but suspect that this was all part of Jiyan's secret plot against him. But Jiyan simply assured him that he'd become used to it.
Now, as the deal progressed, Calcharo has grown comfortable with the culture shock the Huanglong people brought him.
On the Loong-rising Day, one of the most celebrated festivals in Huanglong, Calcharo sat on a roof alone, watching over this "defenseless" city.
People danced in costumes of Lions and Loongs. The air was filled with joy and festivity.
Despite having endured countless battles and sacrifices, they still tried to live every day to the fullest.
These people showed him how grief is not the only way to honor the fallen. Celebrating life is another powerful way to say goodbye.
It wouldn't be bad to permanently base the Ghost Hounds in this city, Calcharo thought.
Then something unusual interrupted his mulling.
Clouds were gathering, and thunder was crackling... Those were the omens of a forming
If he and his people were to eventually go live under the sun one day, then his mission was to dispel the darkness, as much as he could, before that shift eventually happened.
Calcharo unsheathed his blade and walked into the dark night. Behind him, the city's lights glimmered with liveliness and prosperity.
Voice Lines
Thoughts: I
Misconceptions about us abound. Violence is just one tool in our arsenal, not our sole means to an end. Cooperation is our usual aim, but in a world of betrayal and deception, we must make sure backstabbing us is never worth the risk. To maintain efficient cooperation, we demand an ironclad contract with consequences... and that's where necessary violence comes in play.
Thoughts: II
You're quite good with your sword, but in a world like this, fighting alone will not suffice. Picture this: a single hound may not scare you, but what about a pack? Fear creeps in as you're trapped alone, with no one to guard your back, surrounded by enemies on all fronts. They aren't leaving without blood. Strength comes in numbers... Keep that in mind.
Thoughts: III
As a leader, one must excel in the art of deception, projecting an image of unwavering composure and offering false reassurance... Every decision you make could change lives. If a day comes when you are in charge of other people, or even the entire world, what choices will you make? Will you bear the weight of their fate, or prioritize your own desires above all else?
Thoughts: IV
You've done your homework on us, it seems. As mercenaries, we take on any job and always deliver... The pay is our only concern. Wherever war and chaos go, the Ghost Hounds will follow. We exist, because there is always demand for our service. How do you perceive us? Though I couldn't care less about others' opinions... I'm open to your thoughts.
Thoughts: V
Someday, I may need your aid. If my actions steer the Ghost Hounds off course, I'll count on you to right my wrongs... or put an end to my existence. For now, I am happy to enjoy our current alliance.
Calcharo's Hobby
Search, rescue, transportation, recon, group combat... Dogs are loyal and skilled in many ways. Me? I don't keep dogs. It's too dangerous... for the dogs, that is.
Calcharo's Trouble
Hopefully, my guys aren't stirring up too much trouble back at the base...
Favorite Food
<te href=850093>Huanglong</te>'s emergency rations. They taste slightly better than those made elsewhere.
Disliked Food
...Out in the wild, food preferences don't matter. I only care about what's edible.
Ideals
Humans or <te href=850081>Tacet Discords</te>, I'll eradicate any danger to the Ghost Hounds. It is my sole focus to protect my people, and secure any form of momentary respite when I can.
Show more voice lines (59 remaining)
Chat: I
The deaths of our kind are likely to go unnoticed. It's our destiny—fleeting, like dust in the wind. Each of us bears a dog tag with our name and story etched upon it, as a form of legacy... A symbol of our existence, no less than a declaration of it.
Chat: II
In the Underworld, it's all about survival of the fittest. Either you dominate as the apex predator, or you're doomed to be devoured by those above you. It's the brutal law of the land. In a world where might makes right, we must rise to the very top to remain free from others' schemes, and preserve our autonomy.
About Jiyan
He's a capable leader. He once recommended me an ancient tome on the art of war from <te href=850093>Huanglong</te>, one that I regret not acquiring sooner—it could have saved me some effort. As for the deal between us... *scoff* It was merely an exchange of interests. Nothing more.
About Mortefi
Pretentious, arrogant, and self-absorbed... That man epitomizes every trait associated with those snooty New Federation nobles. That said, I cannot deny his talent in crafting Tacetite Weapons. I can arrange a meeting with our trusted arms dealer, if he's interested.
About Aalto
Need to reach Aalto? Here's his contact. Mention my name for a twenty percent discount.
About Yinlin
Yinlin? That undercover agent who infiltrated my group? *huff* Easy there. I didn't give her a hard time, provided she always stayed in her lane.
About Verina
I met her once. A prodigy in the field of botany at such a young age... Impressive.
Birthday Wishes
Happy birthday. Is there anyone or anything bothering you? On this special day, I can offer my services at a discounted price to help rid you of your problems.
Idle: I
Keep your fangs sharp.
Idle: II
*Effort Sound*
Idle: III
...I see my way clear.
Self-Introduction
Calcharo, leader of the Ghost Hounds Mercenary Group. I suppose you've heard about what we do. Don't worry, your safety as my client will be guaranteed until the job is done.
Greeting
I'll handle your commission, alone.
Join Team: I
You should have the payment ready by now.
Join Team: II
Curious you'd want me to join you in person...
Join Team: III
Let's see if the gains will be worth the effort.
Ascension: I
This power you just gave me... Do you always trust others so easily?
Ascension: II
...Your kindness, I have certainly received. Naturally, I'll work for you in return.
Ascension: III
Follow our rules and never betray us. As long as I'm alive, the name "Ghost Hounds" should command enough respect to grant you free reign over the continent.
Ascension: IV
*amused huff* Impressive, you've got a much bigger ambition than I thought. The offer you made is too enticing to ignore... Very well. I will repay you with my unwavering loyalty.
Ascension: V
I owe you a debt that cannot be easily repaid. The Ghost Hounds have their stance to maintain, and I cannot make decisions for my people lightly. However, I am willing to accept this "contract"... on my own terms. Speak, and your wish will be granted, no questions asked.
Resonance Skill: I
Sever!
Resonance Skill: II
Strike!
Resonance Skill: III
Exterminate!
Resonance Liberation: I
War spares no one!
Resonance Liberation: II
Misery follows!
Resonance Liberation: III
Unleash the fangs!
Liberation: Intro Skill
Let slip the dogs of war!
Dodge
Saw that coming.
Counterattack: I
Weaklings.
Counterattack: II
Do your worst.
Counterattack: III
Pointless.
Dodge Counter: I
Caught you.
Dodge Counter: II
Too slow.
Dodge Counter: III
Now!
Dodge Counter: IV
Crush.
Dodge Counter: V
Shred.
Dodge Counter: VI
No escape.
Hit: I
Stay put.
Hit: II
Caution.
Hit: III
*Effort Sound*
Injured: I
Stay calm.
Injured: II
The dice is cast.
Injured: III
Stand down.
Fallen: I
Live... no matter what...
Fallen: II
My day... has come...
Fallen: III
I can hear the... calling...
Echo Summon
Fight for me.
Echo Transform
"All is fair in war."
Intro Skill
Target confirmed.
Enemies Near
Who's the prey now?
Glider
Keep your eyes open.
Grapple
*Effort Sound*
Sensor
Nowhere to hide.
Dash
It's time.
Wall Dash
Follow me.
Supply Chest: I
The loot we find is not part of my pay. It's all yours.
Supply Chest: II
I trust you can use it to the full.
Supply Chest: III
...This should come in handy.