Hecate 
Impermanence Heron 
Nightmare: Inferno Rider 
Inferno Rider 
Character Story
1 The International Research Fellow
Mortefi's passion for classical music, his habit of having exquisite desserts and afternoon tea, and lastly, his almost pathological obsession over cleanliness... These details are enough to tell Mortefi's noble background.
Mortefi acknowledges that his family background played a role in shaping his personality, but it was not the only factor.
A theory suggests that all music has already been composed, and it is the duty of musicians to discover these melodies. Similarly, scientists spend their lives trying to understand the melodies of the universe. Mortefi draws inspiration from the precise and harmonious nature of classical music for his research.
He loves sweet desserts, because after long hours of research he needs a quick energy fix to keep his brain functioning and mood pleasant.
His obsession with cleanliness stems from the need for a sterile lab, leading him to detest anyone who contaminates it.
Ultimately, it is his passion and dedication for scientific research that truly defines Mortefi's character.
However, Mortefi's foreign identity still drew suspicion and rumors. Some claimed family connections secured his spot, others accused him of bribing officials.
Mortefi ultimately proved himself with his undeniable capabilities: The fact that he developed five Tacetite weapon prototypes in under three days was enough to shut down most rumors.
2 The Art of Language
Instead, he reserves his snarky tongue for moments of dire need, especially when colleagues encounter illogical and unreasonable clients. In these situations, Mortefi always makes sure they get a good taste of his linguistic arsenal. Mortefi's use of perplexing metaphors and literary allusions favored by the New Federation's elites, along with the latest Huanglong slang, may leave one baffled.
To truly grasp the underlying messages in Mortefi's scathing words, perhaps one must experience it themselves. But then again, some mysteries might be best left unsolved. People have even compiled Mortefi's sarcastic remarks into little handy notes, carrying them around as portable ammo for unjust situations where they can't find the right words to fight back.
Mortefi was momentarily speechless when he found out about this. He laughed, exasperated, "It's not that they didn't know what to say, but societal pressures and cultural norms kept them silent. As an outsider unbound by Huanglong's conventions, it just so happens I could speak on their behalf without restraint."
With no social obligations or funding issues to worry about, indeed someone like Mortefi, a foreign man with an elite background, can attain such freedom.
Over time, this trait somehow gained Mortefi a considerable number of followers among a group of socially inept scientists. After all, he really never hesitates to stand up for any stranger he just met.
3 The Tender Grump
Mortefi can turn any outrageous request into a reality with efficiency and reliability. Just provide a clear description and some sincere compliments to sweeten the deal, and your desired item will be in your hands before you know it.
He may appear reluctant when the kids pester him for a new toy, and he'd even half-jokingly remark on how they are "so good at bossing me around". But despite this, he is wholeheartedly dedicated to fulfilling their every request. He is willing to go without sleep for days to bring their ideas to life. Yet he is awkwardly unwilling to let the kids know the effort he puts into their entrusted tasks. Instead, he downplays his creations as simple works completed in a few hours.
In Jinzhou, Mortefi is the creative force behind 80% of popular children's toys and entertainment facilities. From the Spinning Bloop to the Swinging Loongboat and the Sabyrboar Scooter, his designs always captivate young minds. Surprisingly, he doesn't charge any patent fees for these designs.
For Mortefi, it's not about money; it's about seeing the joy, wonder, and admiration in children's eyes.
Or perhaps, it's a way for him to recapture his own lost childhood.
On the other hand, many believed it to be a complete waste of his talent. Unfortunately, some people assumed that clear communication would be enough to control Mortefi, and some even tried to coerce him into service. But those who dared were met with clever inventions crafted solely to mock them. Witnesses claim these inventions were diabolical enough to torture like an interrogation, yet still fulfill the requested task. Those who got away swore never to get on Mortefi's bad side again in their lifetime.
If there was a department in Jinzhou for devising creative punishments for criminals, Mortefi would definitely excel as its leader.
4 Shattered Crown of Prodigy
Locked away in his grim study, he resorted to venting his anger on household objects. But even this small act of rebellion soon lost its appeal as his parents simply replaced the destroyed items. New and shiny, they were always neatly arranged, a constant reminder of Mortefi's futile attempts at defiance.
The only moments of peace Mortefi could have were when he disassembled and rebuilt the mechanical objects. A unique form of communication between man and machine brought him much-needed tranquility: In these moments, he could trust without doubt, be himself without flattery, and no longer endure unwarranted anger. In the world of gears and cogs, there was no room for ambiguity. If a machine malfunctioned, he could simply identify and tackle the problem one step at a time.
Mortefi's parents didn't scold him when they found out what he was doing; instead, they were proud. The cult of technology ran deep in the blood of every citizen in the New Federation, and his talent were recognized as a valuable asset.
With their support, Mortefi gained rare resources, top-notch mentorship and access to esteemed research events. He received endless acclaim and was hailed as the country's youngest scientific prodigy.
...Until everything changed when he met a certain young man.
Even to this day, Mortefi still vividly remembers that encounter at the New Federation's World Expo, when he was 17 years old.
It was a masterpiece, crafted from inexpensive materials yet possessing the stability of top-grade ones. The design's apparent simplicity warrants in-depth research, with numerous papers devoted to it. While being simple and affordable, it outshone all of Mortefi's inventions in terms of practicality and usability. It was a true innovation for humanity, a stroke of genius.
Mortefi stared at that young man in the crowd, who seemed to sense his gaze and looked back to meet his eyes.
Surrounded by the deafening cheers and clamor, he only managed to memorize that young man's place of origin: Huanglong.
5 The "Magic"
Little is known about why Mortefi left the New Federation on the day of his coming-of-age ceremony, or what exactly he went through on his way to Huanglong... And now, he is fervently obsessed with the study of Tacetite.
"I have improved the Tacetite module in this turret, just a little bit. It is now capable of outputting at a hundred times the power. But be sure to follow these 100 operating rules..."
"Wait, what will happen if I don't?"
"The Tacetite energy will be enough to uproot this city and set it on a heavenly journey."
"..."
"Tsk. What is that look on your face? I am only responsible for getting you what you need and providing necessary explanations. It's up to you to decide how you'll use it."
Similar cases are in their dozens, ultimately putting Huaxu Academy on one of the Directors' special attention list at the Ministry of Development. This relentless drive has fueled the rapid advances in Wutherology, but it came at a cost.
In the end, even the other scholars at the academy began to worry about Mortefi, who often went several nights without sleep in pursuit of perfection. He worked tirelessly, but at this pace, he risked burning out too soon like a fire consuming itself.
Mortefi often remembered his tutor's reminder: always keep in mind what you are working for. Perhaps, he thought, I am just seeking joy in communicating with the machines.
If his fire were to someday burn out, he hoped to leave behind a legacy of knowledge for future generations. To make the flame burn even brighter as it lasted, further illuminating the path for those who would follow in his footsteps.
With the test results he had been waiting for finally coming out, Mortefi closed his eyes and collapsed into his chair.
Perhaps the real "magic" for the Academy lies in its devoted researchers, one such as Mortefi. Unconstrained by societal expectations, he works tirelessly to advance humanity's knowledge of the world.
...That being said, there will presumably be more complaints for the newly appointed Director to handle.
Voice Lines
Thoughts: I
The Academy is working as fast as a Hoartoise. So many mysteries about you remain unanswered, yet my research proposals are still pending approval.
Thoughts: II
As a lone traveler, there must've been times when you were taken advantage of, but couldn't retaliate on the spot. If you ever find yourself in such a situation again... do not hesitate to bring me along.
Thoughts: III
Many believe having "talent" is a blessing, but ignore the curse that comes along: someday fate might take it away, quietly. Don't take your talent for granted—make the most of it, before it's too late.
Thoughts: IV
Creating and sustaining connections requires reading between the lines, and speaking words that please... Even the same words can be interpreted differently, depending on the tone and context. It's too complicated for my liking. This is why I prefer straightforward individuals... and I'm glad you are one.
Thoughts: V
A powerful weapon can bring either justice, or devastation. The character and conviction of its wielder dictate how it's used, and that has a bearing on the judgement of those who crafted it. Now, if I entrust my works to you... to where will this decision lead me?
Mortefi's Hobby
Music composition follows intricate regulations, much like balancing mathematical equations. This attention to rationalism is profound in classical music. I remember reading a score that sounded beautiful even when played in reverse. The composer was able to create something so mathematically precise, yet still kept all its beauty... I couldn't help wondering how.
Mortefi's Trouble
Scientific research is but a tool. It's not magic. People tend to have unrealistic expectations about how research works, and you wouldn't want to be one of them.
Favorite Food
I need an energy source to keep my brain going while I work, and sugar is the most effective choice. Candies always instantly improve my mood without leaving sticky residues on my fingers. Here, allow me to present you the Lemon Bomb, a proud work of mine. Care to have a taste?
Disliked Food
It's important to take time savoring meals prepared with devotion and care, but never those shoddily manufactured instant foods; consuming them is only a disservice to my chewing muscles.
Ideals
There is an abyssal gap between "knowing" and "understanding". I once assumed I knew the suffering of people stricken by Tacet Discords, trapped in dread and hunger... After my departure from the New Federation, I realized how I wasn't even close to "understanding" any of them. Maybe there is still a gap between true understanding and what I know now; still, I must do what I can to remedy the situation, now that I am aware of it. I will create Tacetite weapons that are stronger than ever... and with that, grant humans the power to confront Tacet Discords.