Nightmare: Thundering Mephis
Tempest Mephis
Thundering Mephis
Flautist
Story & Voice
Lore beats, character story moments, and voice lines to learn more about Xiangli Yao.
Character Story
1An Interview
The Xiangli family had always been a star in
The photo won me a small award and secured my job.
As the door opened, I looked down to see a boy with bright and clear eyes looking back at me. I flashed my press badge, and he ushered me inside.
Xiangli Yao, the "Son of the Genius" and "Paragon's Descendant." His father's brilliance had turned heads across Jinzhou, and his mother's perseverance saved the lives of countless children in the city.
This very house once drew the attention of many, and it remains that way to this day.
I prided myself on conducting interviews, but this young boy seemed more comfortable than I was. Xiangli Yao, like his parents, possessed a natural eloquence, his demeanor gentle and poised. The interview flowed smoothly, and after setting aside my notebook, he offered me a cup of tea. I thanked him, but he shook his head.
"I should thank you for visiting because of my parents," Xiangli Yao smiled, "I've heard a thing or two about what's been happening."
Jinzhou, with its vast lands and rich resources, is not without its share of discord.
The Xianglis had done me a favor in the past, one I felt compelled to repay, both professionally and personally by making sure their son was okay. Xiangli Yao smiled wistfully, his expression hinting at a memory relived. "My parents are always busy with work, so I'm glad someone remembers them. Your reports capture their moments, research results, words spoken, and many other details that I didn't even know about... When I read those news and interviews, I feel like I get to know them better."
I hesitated for a moment but still went on to ask.
"Do you think... it's unfair? Perhaps your parents should have spent more time with their child?"
"They both have their passions, and it's the same for me. I'm happy they're doing what they love."
"...Is that so."
I took a deep breath and prepared to leave, but Xiangli Yao asked me to stay. I forgot the exact reason he gave. However, I'm sure it must've been a good one. Xiangli Yao had a way with words that made refusing his hospitality difficult. I only remember having another cup of warm tea and continuing to chat for a while before finally taking my leave.
As I reached for the door, the boy remarked with a straight face, "If there's anything you want to confirm, it's best to do it in person. When I was little, my mother and I often talked about the importance of companionship—we even exchanged small notes. Though I was still very young then, those notes, with their few simple words... I find them just as comforting today."
I nodded and left the house, ready to pen my next piece.
But before that, I would send a message to my child, whom I had neglected to contact for several days.
2A Persuasion
The older man held a prestigious position in the education system and had personal connections with Xiangli Yao's father. Today, it was another attempt at persuasion, much like the previous ones.
"I am not attending a separate class. Regular school is fine for me," Xiangli Yao reiterated.
The elderly man tapped on the table, "Your current pace might not fit into the standard curriculum. Moving too quickly can bring challenges. You and your classmates are not on the same playing field."
Xiangli Yao shook his head.
"There's no point wasting resources opening a special class just for me. I already have access to the
The elder sighed deeply. "Your teacher has mentioned such things to me. He says you get along well with your classmates. But this isn't just about you, it's about getting you into the Academy faster," he said, staring at the young person before him. "Xiangli Yao, your father also accelerated his studies and had more time to conduct all the research he loved."
"I am not my father."
"Yet you share his talents and temperament. That I've noticed."
Xiangli Yao gripped the textbooks in his hands, as he slowly and firmly shook his head, "But that's not what I want. I want to take things slow, like the way it is now."
"Playing trivial games with your classmates won't do you any good... You'll tire of it sooner or later. It's a waste of time."
The elder stood by the window, looking out at students playing and laughing in the schoolyard. Xiangli Yao went to him, patting his shoulder.
"That won't happen," Xiangli Yao said softly, also looking at the same view.
They were his friends.
"I want to be like them, going to school, talking about snacks, catching fish in the river, and watching cool
Old and young faced each other in the silent office.
The elder sighed again. "You remind me of your father. But the two of you are not quite the same."
Xiangli Yao smiled, "Well, like I said... I'm not my father. I'm not the student you once had."
The door opened again.
The next day, Xiangli Yao returned to his regular classes.
3A Question
His friend placed the box in a forgotten corner of the dorm, then sprawled out in bed, "Xiangli Yao, you should definitely sign up for
Xiangli Yao turned his chair to face his friend, "Haha. I'll think about it."
"Latest issue?"
"Yeah, they sent me a sample."
"Jealous! I wish I could work that fast, popping out articles left and right while taking classes at the same time. Man." He waved his arms and grinned, "I guess you already have that Imperial Academy exam in the bag. So, where's it gonna be?"
With that, he tossed over a can of soda.
The can drew a perfect arc in the air, landing squarely in Xiangli Yao's hand.
"Too much sugar," sighed the model student, known for his healthy habits as his lips quirked into a smile, cracking open the can anyway. "About that..."
A brief silence followed. Then Xiangli shook his head softly. "I haven't decided yet."
His friend raised an eyebrow, surprised. "Well, that's new. I thought you made up your mind already. Professors must be fighting over you."
"There are a few things I haven't figured out yet."
"Which are...?"
"Boundaries. The boundaries of truth," Xiangli Yao said slowly, twisting a cube in his hands. "Pascar, do you suppose that humanity will hold itself back in pursuing the boundaries of truth?"
"Maybe. There are plenty of nut job scientists out there, so who knows."
"We chase after the stars, only to fall beneath them. Boundaries limit our scope... but without it, there's no way to tell whether you're progressing."
"Well... you and I have different opinions on this, and I'll keep mine to myself to avoid an argument. But what's all this got to do with your admission? You trying to change the subject on me?"
Xiangli Yao smiled softly. "It does. After my father pursued his own path, I've heard little about him. But I've uncovered some leads... Perhaps they'll lead me to the Court of Savantae, the place he went searching for."
"You sure you're going? After so many years, plenty of people have tried to find even a smither of hint related to the CSC, with little success."
"I feel that I must go. Even if I end up finding nothing. I want to know..."
The young scholar spoke slowly, his voice gradually softened, "I want to know... if my father crossed that boundary."
A month before exams, Xiangli vanished.
He left behind a video, revealing his confusion and the sense of emptiness he felt on his path of pursuing the truth. But whichever path he chose henceforth, he would embrace its outcome.
Empty seats lingered in the dorm, as life carried on.
4A Ruin
At every step, remnants of the Court of Savantae's defenses were giving Xiangli Yao a hard time. Despite his meticulous preparations, some supplies and provisions had been lost along the way.
Xiangli Yao assessed what remained, weighing his options, and ultimately chose to press deeper into the ruins.
He had long since departed from the borders of
Internally, however, conditions were far better. The bulk of the instruments were well-preserved and intact. Cerulean fluids surged and circulated in the conduits of all the mechanisms with a vitality outlasting their creators. Each mechanism, precise, robust, and elegant, was meticulously cataloged by Xiangli Yao as he discerned subtle deviations from Huanglong's existing technologies.
The more he explored, the more an irrepressible thrill seized him. Like a poet enraptured by fine wine, Xiangli Yao felt drunk on the outpouring of knowledge that surrounded him.
His Terminal had lost its connection to the outside world, but he still did his best to record everything. His fascination with mechanics, a domain where Savantae had made unparalleled strides, led him to wonder whether his father had known of these innovations, and where he was now on the path of chasing the stars.
Yet amid the marvels, signs of a strange intrusion became apparent. Ever since the
The deeper Xiangli Yao went into the ruins, the anomalies intensified. Xiangli Yao's recordings slowed. The need to distinguish between anomalies and original designs demanded meticulous care. Eventually, he landed on a guess: The people here were trying to create some sort of door.
A door. A gateway. A... portal.
For the first time, Xiangli Yao hesitated.
Besides the danger, the doubt was about direction. So far, no alternate passage into the ruins had revealed itself, suggesting his father's departure had taken a different path. Had his father fallen here? Or...
If truth had a path, perhaps this was its nearest gateway.
5A Smile
That portal might have been built for that very purpose: to leap into the sky, or perhaps even further, into the heart of the civilization that had transformed these ruins.
Xiangli Yao wasn't sure if they had succeeded, but he paid a steep price for his curiosity—his arm. He could only speculate that he had managed to solve the sequence and activate the mechanism. He recalled the marks etched into the enormous cavity. They were rugged and twisted, as if a huge
Then, crystalline, delicate butterflies emerged from the fracture. A strange power seeped from the gap, glowing with the mysteries of another civilization. As Xiangli Yao stared into it, past barriers that once seemed insurmountable now appeared solvable within this new framework. The waves of knowledge surged, capable of bending, subduing, and intertwining all frequencies in existence.
He took a step forward, almost forgetting the blood gushing from his torn flesh. The dizziness from blood loss and a faint euphoria blurred his senses.
At that moment, he noticed a familiar object lying dust-covered on the workstation. His childhood memories were hazy, but he recognized it immediately as a gift from his mother to his father. Xiangli Yan had once shown it to him as a child, a father and son photo of them together. Suddenly, he understood. Even at the end, his father held onto a memory of their family. He hadn't abandoned everything.
Beyond that threshold, could he still see himself progressing, at the end of pure theory where no one could observe…?
His father devoted everything to theoretical science, his mother to applied science. Xiangli Yao was like them, always longing to reach for the stars, even willing to burn himself in the process.
They had given their all.
And what about him?
Standing just a step away from the ultimate answer, the young scholar found himself thinking about trivial, unrelated things. He recalled how, after his parents' departure, friends and neighbors had dragged him out to join a
He was like his parents.
However, he was not their clone. Even as his shadow followed theirs, he found himself unable to journey the same roads they had traveled.
With trembling hands, the young scholar searched for scattered parts, trying to assemble a device to stop the bleeding. His newly acquired Forte gently surged and began to warp the metal structures according to his will.
As the bleeding ceased, so did the grand opportunity before him.
It was only a few steps away... but Xiangli Yao had already turned his back.
He knew he had found his own answer.
Voice Lines
Thoughts: I
I first heard about you when my colleagues were discussing your physical. I was caught up in technical support back then, but wanted to meet you in person. Now, I am content to see that, as I predicted... you have the potential to shape <te href=850079>Solaris-3</te>'s future in unforeseen ways.
Thoughts: II
As the child of two scholars, I was always drawn to the same path. Perhaps trying to follow in their footsteps. However, my recollections of them have blurred over time. Most of what I know about my parents comes from reading their published research and evaluations of their work by others, rather than personal memories. Their existence feels elusive to me, like a hazy dream. Yet, I am their legacy—a reflection of their brilliance, and... their madness.
Thoughts: III
I like interacting with people, be it my colleagues at the Academy, or others. At times, I fear losing sight of my own humanity while chasing truth's elusive grasp... In those moments, I step away and seek solace in a bustling crowd. The laughter on their faces reminds me of the warmth of human connection.
Thoughts: IV
Losing my arm didn't bring as much pain as I expected. I was too consumed with excitement, finally discovering the Court of Savantae Ruins, following in my father's footsteps. The achievements I witnessed were beyond imagination. The secrets of a hidden civilization were revealed to me, their inventions harnessing the universe's echoes.
Thoughts: V
...Ah, it's you. Please, come in. No need to worry, I just need to recharge after all those meetings. Like a machine needing a break. Hmm? So you would like to help? Sure, please sit here. Just... stay next to me for a while. You don't need to say anything. Yes, this will do. Thank you.
Xiangli Yao's Hobby
Writing a report alone, after completing research, is satisfying. My scattered thoughts and inspirations come together during this time, becoming clear and organized.
Xiangli Yao's Trouble
During back-to-back academic conferences, my focus wanes and I need time to recharge. Being with peers is enjoyable, but a little solitude is necessary for me to stay sharp.
Favorite Food
I love all breakfast foods. I prefer to sleep and wake up early instead of staying up late and consuming caffeine. Eating consistent breakfast portions energizes my mind quickly.
Disliked Food
Oh, the Sour Soy Milk… When I was a toddler, my mother once convinced me to try it. While most of my childhood memories are joyful, that particular taste was overwhelming for my young palate.
Ideals
The laws of nature on <te href=850079>Solaris</te> have shifted under the <te href=850075>Lament</te>'s sway, and even fundamental principles are now being questioned across all academic fields. Yet, I find the pursuit of new theories quite stimulating. Deep within the cosmos, beyond the stars, lies a vast expanse waiting to be understood. And there, amidst the barren landscape, truth awaits its discovery.
Show more voice lines (47 remaining)
Chat: I
This prosthetic arm is pretty handy, loaded with helpful features. I don't have to worry about any arm injury while working on risky experiments, and I can even pull a few pranks on my colleagues. Oh, you want examples? Well... I'll definitely show you when I get the chance.
Chat: II
Among the friends I made when I was a kid, Pascar was the one who kept in touch with me for the longest time. Certain actions, when done too late, can lead to lingering regrets. Occasionally, I contemplate how each individual is a complex enigma, similar to the countless scientific theses I have studied.
About Mortefi
Mortefi is an interesting person. He's devoted to his work with unwavering determination. It's that kind of intense drive that pushes scientists towards brilliant discoveries. I know he considers me a "genius"—but in a workplace with only "geniuses", many ideas will never be realized. My dear friend has yet to grasp his true potential.
About Jinhsi
<te href=850084>Magistrate</te> Jinhsi has been paying close attention to the battles against Tacet Discords. She often visits the Academy to learn about our latest progress in weapons development. During those visits, she always seems tense. I understand the pressure and weight she carries, with all the promises and expectations placed on her shoulders...
About Jiyan
The <te href=850086>Midnight Rangers</te> bring valuable insights on <te href=850081>Tacet Discords</te> from their years of combat experience. General Jiyan has shared his extensive knowledge and new ideas with us. He possesses a gentle and just nature, but what truly sets him apart is his composure. This is essential for someone in his position.
About Aalto
Aalto once approached me with an offer from <te href=850109>the Black Shores</te>, but I declined. Life at the Academy suits me well. Though his manner may seem unserious, Aalto has a sharp eye for valuable information and connections for rare materials. I've frequently relied on his services.
About Baizhi
Baizhi is a great researcher. Our work doesn't often overlap, but I've read her reports and they're well-informed and persuasive. She often participates in field research, earning her a reputation among peers for bringing back valuable data.
Birthday Wishes
Happy birthday. Please, extend your hand. With the <te href=850075>Lament</te> crisis stalling our deep space exploration, our understanding of the galaxy has been limited. But this... See? This is a glimpse of the unchanging universe, brimming with secrets and tranquility, just for you. If my theories about your true place of origin are correct... I hope this memento offers some solace.
Idle: I
(Effort Sounds)
Idle: II
Time for replacements.
Idle: III
There, there... Off you go.
Self-Introduction
My name is Xiangli Yao, a researcher at the <te href=850092>Huaxu Academy</te>. Rover, your rare resonance frequencies raise an intriguing question: are you a unique beacon of insight in our quest for truth? Or do you already hold the ultimate truth in your hand?
Greeting
As truthseekers, we gauge the universe from within a nutshell. I'd love to hear your insights.
Join Team: I
The experiment begins.
Join Team: II
Amidst disruptions, let's find our way to the right path.
Join Team: III
Science is life's questioning of truth.
Ascension: I
An interesting new perspective. Thank you. Now I should be able to further improve my prosthetic arm's energy output.
Ascension: II
I can now achieve even greater things with Metalmorph. Is there a particular thing you desire? Please let me offer my new creation as a gift. It wouldn't exist without you.
Ascension: III
It's interesting. Your feedback reminds me of the texts I found in the Court of Savantae Ruins. Their ideology is fascinating and enigmatic, almost as if it came from the stars in outer space.
Ascension: IV
I'm headed to test the new combat techniques I've learned. Care to join me? It's time to put theory into practice. I believe I have reached a critical point, and overcoming it will bring a new horizon.
Ascension: V
The pursuit of truth is a rocky path to tread. Some stumble and push forward, others lament their weariness, and a few may even turn back. Our ranks thin as we near the ultimate goal. But Rover... Though you blaze your own trail, I know you are always with us, guiding the truthseekers forward.
Resonance Skill: I
Disruption.
Resonance Skill: II
Reconfiguration!
Resonance Skill: III
Exploit primed!
Resonance Liberation: I
All shall reveal itself.
Resonance Liberation: II
Pierce through the stars.
Resonance Liberation: III
Verity confined within limits.
Intro Skill
Variable elimination!
Hit: I
Miscalculation.
Hit: II
(Effort Sounds)
Hit: III
(Effort Sounds)
Injured: I
(Effort Sounds)
Injured: II
Risk level increasing.
Injured: III
Damage... Critical.
Fallen: I
Insufficent energy.
Fallen: II
Is this how it ends...?
Fallen: III
(Effort Sounds)
Echo Summon
Integration initiated.
Echo Transform
Complete overhaul.
Enemies Near
Watch out.
Glider
Like the wind.
Grapple
Nice.
Sensor
Coordinates confirmed.
Dash
Faster.
Supply Chest: I
Hmm... That was a rudimentary lock.
Supply Chest: II
Intriguing artifacts.
Supply Chest: III
Does anything here catch your interest?