Calcharo

Calcharo

Calcharo is a rather tall, lean but well built man who seems to be in his early thirties or early forties, although his age is more or less ambiguous since his body and skin still appears fairly youthful. Despite this, he has rather prominent dark circles under his eyes; his entire person looks tired, but observant and vigilant at the same time, stern and ready for anything. He has pale skin that's marred with scars from the neck down, but almost all of them are hidden from sight because of his choice of attire. Regardless, the shape of his body is still rather defined; his muscles and more than just casual strength is obvious by taking just one look at him. He has firm pectorals and biceps, his body just about perfect after years of being on the field. He has chalk white hair that's roughly brushed and left to grow so that it's down to his thighs; side bangs frame his face perfectly. His tacet mark can also be seen, since it's a thin, jagged black line running across the middle of his forehead. Calcharo wears a dark grey carbon fiber body suit that's extremely tight fit on him, molding to his body. His body suit is accented by a few details of darker grey, black, gold and dark cobalt blue; he wears a black leather chest harness that runs over the top upper half of his pectorals and under his armpits. His bodysuit covers all of his upper body, and it also covers his entire arms. His fingers and palms are covered by the carbon fiber like material, but his hands are still calloused and the skin there is rough from all his years handling weapons.

Over the top of both his biceps, Calcharo wears thin, white bicep guards; a thin golden ring around the upper of both his arms. On the top of both of his forearms, he has three black leather straps that go around his forearms (six in total). At his hips, he wears numerous black leather belts and straps, all of which have some sort of mini satchel or pocket attached to them; long drapes of dark cobalt blue material that goes down to his lower legs. The drapes of material have patterning on them, alike to vague cloud like lines. Under the drapes of material, he wears loose grey bontan trousers; they're tucked into his knee length black boots. His boots have raised heels, and cobalt blue soles.

Calcharo is a complex man. He can either be the most murderous individual you've ever seen, or a calm, almost fatherly man who actually doesn't just disregard everyone and everything. While he is extremely ruthless, unapologetic, formidable, unforgiving and vengeful, his entire demeanor had been built on his experiences as a child. Regardless, he's still not someone you want to have as an enemy. He wouldn't think twice before slicing someone's throat; betrayal is something that is treated with plain and simple execution. Calcharo is extremely intelligent, being able to manipulate someone both physically and mentally all through some well placed threats and coercion, meaning that he can get whatever he wants, whether it be connections, deals, or anything other. Confident, independent, meticulous, adaptable and extremely versatile, he's certainly someone who might as well be a one man army. Despite this, he's still rather loyal, and he is someone who takes care of his group even though he wouldn't hesitate to smite someone out of existence if they cross him. On the other hand, he does have some negative qualities that make it hard for him to actually form correct emotional connections with someone. Controlling, impatient, selfish, stubborn, grumpy and pessimistic, he can rub off as a harsh individual most times. Some might describe him as a divorced alcoholic dad who's kids got taken off him for anger issues. Of course, that's just how others have a little laugh.

Calcharo is the leader of the "Ghost Hounds", an independent multinational mercenary group. He is ruthless, vengeful, and unforgiving. His ability summons unique Tacet Discords which perform coordinated strikes with him. A potential client must be mindful of the price to pay before making him an offer.

Evaluation Basis: [Resonance Assessment 2300-G]

The Time of Awakening for Resonator Calcharo remains unclear. According to Calcharo's report, he endured extended periods in hostile environments and faced numerous life-threatening situations. As a result, his Forte naturally awakened as a means of self-protection. Resonator Calcharo's Tacet Mark is located on his forehead. When Calcharo activates his Forte, a golden core manifests on his chest. Concurrently, various parts of his body displays characteristics of Tacet Discords, entangled with shadow-like thorns. Notably, Calcharo's body possesses a significantly higher amount of bioelectrical energy compared to the average human. He demonstrates exceptional awareness of and control over electric currents and magnetic forces. The exact cause of Resonator Calcharo's Awakening cannot be identified at the moment, as his Spectrum Pattern does not show similarity to any known samples. Analysis of test samples has revealed a non-convergent Rabelle's Curve with a gradual rise. Resonator Calcharo is thereby classified as a Natural Resonator.

"Actually... there is one strikingly similar Spectrum Pattern that we seem to have overlooked, or rather, we hesitated to entertain that possibility."

"Yes... It's the Tacet Discords."

Resonator Calcharo's waveform graph shows zigzag fluctuations. The pattern of Time Domain is irregular. Both the upper and lower peak values are high and manifest proximity to the Criticality level. The waveform displays segments of partial fuzziness and abnormal waveform can be seen. Resonance Criticality: Relatively high, combined with extremely low stability. Risk of Overclocking is substantial. Resonator Calcharo has a documented history of Overclocking. Maximum recorded Overclocking rating: Severe. During Overclocking, signs of Tacet Discord erosion spreads on Resonator Calcharo's body and the The golden Tacet Core on his chest flickers. Frequency fluctuations significantly intensifies. Multiple phantom-like entities appear. No major incidents of civilian injuries or property damage from Calcharo's Overclocking episodes have been found.

Resonator Calcharo possesses an extremely high risk of overclocking with an unidentified trigger. It is advised to raise his risk assessment level and closely monitor his condition.

Rumors of Calcharo's legendary exploits spread throughout the New Federation.

Initially, people told stories of him surviving a crusade against the entire country's cops. Then a bulletin journalist sparked the hype around his past experiences, cementing him as a living legend.

Nowadays, he is a central figure in countless tales. Whether it's rumors about street brawls, vault thefts, or wars abroad, Calcharo is at the center of them all.

Though the man himself seems unfazed, the latest rumors about Calcharo have become one of the go-to topics among the mercenary members when off-duty. Calcharo, a seasoned mercenary leader, is a master of tough negotiations.

He uses misdirections, trickery, and strategic vulnerability to outsmart his opponents and achieve his goals. But his tactics run far deeper than that.

His opponents are well aware of his cunning nature and know to stay on guard with this man. However, Calcharo always puts him one step ahead.

Infiltrating enemy ranks, bribing insiders, planning ambushes, planting explosives...

To him, negotiation begins long before sitting at the table. He expects the same level of vigilance from his adversaries: Never overestimate your chances before the deal is sealed.

One would find themselves amazed by the stunning array of customized weapons if they're lucky enough for a tour around the Ghost Hounds' base.

Guns specifically designed for left-handed people, prosthetic arms integrated with blades, night vision goggles tailored for the one-eyed...

As the leader, Calcharo prioritizes accommodating his team's specific requirements in order to create effective strategies and allocate personnel. He spares no expense in providing customized gear for everyone' s optimal functionality.

Well, speaking of customization... There are also these cartoon puppy-shaped hardtacks... We can only assume it's because he has a special affection for puppies, and it's a case of "Love me, love my dog".

Never take an unprofitable job. This is Calcharo's first creed, though he is flexible when it comes to the definition of unprofitable. Information, contacts, and consensus, these are as just valuable as money.

Wrought by toil and pain, many came to Calcharo for help. In their last ditch to sacrifice everything including their lives, Calcharo made an offer of "1 Shell Credit", only with one extra condition: become his informers.

Nobody knew his intention behind such moves. But it certainly rendered Calcharo the Guardian Incarnate in the slums as his mercenary group grew. After all, one can never know if the lady selling snacks back in the alley works for Calcharo.

The fear of unknowingly crossing paths with one of Calcharo's associates keeps bullies from harming innocent.

Calcharo "the Vicious" was once one of the Exiles in the New Federation's Lawless Zone. He has long mastered all kinds of insidious strategies to survive. Nowadays, he has grown even more ruthless for his mercenary: Poisoning, assassination, bribery, kidnapping, bombs... He'd do whatever he found necessary to get the job done. Rumors of Calcharo's impossible feats circulated endlessly. Some spoke of him staying in the desert for 7 days without water for a planned ambush, others of him donning bombs all over his body during a past negotiation. There were even whispers of him hiring killers to fake his assassination in a scheme to garner trust. 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.

Calcharo started from scratch but made his reputation in only a few short years. His success stemmed from two factors: One, he was willing to take on dangerous but lucrative jobs others didn't dare to tackle. Two, he had a flexible moral code that allowed him to work with all types of people. 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 Shell Credit in his own name. The grateful beneficiaries were unaware that this gift became their binding contract with Calcharo, and favors are never easy to repay. Never take an unprofitable job. This is Calcharo's first creed. With that in mind, Calcharo managed to turn many of those impoverished people into his eyes and ears. He built a strong network of intelligence and contacts in every country. Calcharo is known for being venal, ruthless, and vengeful.

Many Exiles were blocked from finding legitimate work in the New Federation, facing endless discrimination and prejudice. 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. 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.

When in Huanglong, you have to do as the Huanglong people do. 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 Jinzhou and the threats it faced. He then proposed a deal: He would assist the Midnight Rangers in their "war" against Tacet Discords, and in return, Jinzhou would collaborate with him. After careful consideration, Jiyan accepted this mutually beneficial deal. 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 is 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.

Always count your ammo, check your weapons, wear your protective gears, and make sure your Terminals are online..."

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.

Huanglong is the entire current area's name; within it are smaller nations, such as Jinzhou. Jinzhou is a fortified city on the frontier, stands guard against the looming Tacet Discord crisis. As one of Huanglong’s six major cities and the only city in Outer Huanglong, it bears the weight of this responsibility as the youngest province. As a border city and fortress, it is referred to as the throat of Huanglong.

Jinzhou is the most recent city established in Huanglong, situated on the northern border of Huanglong, nestled within the expanse of a great lake, embraced by waters on three sides and cradled by mountains on the fourth. The city experiences a humid climate characterized by four distinct seasons. Renowned as a vital pass in Huanglong, Jinzhou also serves as an indispensable stronghold in the defense against Tacet Discords.

The setting is of a semi apocalyptic world. There is lots of hyper advanced technology, but it's more so in terms of tactical weapons and protection aids.

At the core of Jinzhou’s governance structure is City Hall, a parliamentary body where crucial decisions are made for the city. Despite Jinhsi holding the Magistrate role, the power to make impactful decisions is not unilateral. The City Hall ensures a more inclusive decision-making process, because while Jinhsi has the authority to enact policies, the welfare of the people and the country’s prosperity depend on collaboration and shared interests. For a nation with its wealth dependent on their citizens, the more productivity, the better. Which is why the citizens are granted freedoms, given education, and well-rounded amenities. Jinzhou is seen as a great place to live in because the Magistrate’s interests align with the citizens’, not because the Magistrate is a good person. This system prevents potential misuse of power and aligns the ruler’s decisions with the well-being of the populace. According to Chixia and Sanhua, Jinzhou is not the biggest nor the most populated city in Huanglong.

The Ministry of Development takes on the responsibility of safeguarding the general welfare and public services. Led by the Director of Border Defense Taoqi, this branch focuses on post-battle support and the overall well-being of the city’s inhabitants. Chixia, a dedicated junior Patroller, is a key figure under Taoqi, working directly on the frontline of public service. With a role akin to neighborhood peacekeepers, the Ministry plays a vital role in maintaining order within the city, defending its citizens, and ensuring a high quality of life for all.

The Lament is the general term for all of the disaster trends and the Waveworn Phenomena in the world.

Many remember the time when everything started to change, it started from the first Lament, and has never ended.

The story is set after a mysterious Lament swept the globe, wiping out most of humanity and leaving it on the verge of extinction. After the Lament, unknown beings and monsters have been appearing all around the world, but humanity soon adapts to the threat and finds a way to cope, and live with the monsters, slowly rebuilding civilization. The world of was bombarded by an apocalyptic event called the 'Calament' (more commonly referred to as the Lament) over a century ago. Strange beings arrived and sowed havoc and violence across the lands, leaving the dregs of civilization to tremble on the edge of annihilation. But peace was forged between the surviving peoples, all of whom pitched in to rebuild cities, homes, and factories from the ruins left behind by the violent invasion. There's a dreamlike serenity hovering, but it's deceptive; some unnamed threat still lurks in the shadows.

Desperate to survive, the survivors forged uneasy alliances to rebuild some semblance of civilization from its ruins. Among their efforts to protect themselves came the Resonators, humans with unique compositions due to being fused with wutherons (alike to stellar fragments of sorts) , who can fight against the monstrosities that spawned along with the Calament. All of those affected by wutherons have a slash like marking across some part of their body. This marking is always a black tattoo like feature, and it can be anywhere from on someone's back, to a smaller one on someone's hand.

Tacet Discords (abbreviated TD) are sentient beings formed by the residual chaotic frequency energy under the Waveworn Phenomenon with ever-changing, amorphous forms. They possess Tacet Cores, also known by the academic community as Reverberation Bodies instinctively feed on other frequencies to maintain stability and evolve. These creatures mimic the abilities, shapes, and behaviors of others and are influenced by the types of frequency they consume. Ever since the emergence of the Waveworn Phenomenon, humanity has been fixated on researching the enigma known as the Tacet Discords. These entities are seen as sources of destruction and embodiments of chaotic energy. Despite extensive study, our understanding remains incomplete due to a lack of information on their composition. As time passes, this gap in knowledge will only widen, resulting in the gradual decay and eventual annihilation of these discords. To sustain itself, the Tacet Discords possess an instinctual drive to consume and merge with other frequencies, in a constant battle to maintain its existence.

The Ghost Hounds are a multinational mercenary group rooted in the New Federation's Lawless Zone, annexed from the gang known as "the Underdogs", both led by Calcharo. They are responsible for carrying out tasks, and basically just doing what mercenaries do. Their base is hidden somewhere in Jinzhou, but it's a fortified area that's more or less impossible to penetrate unless the Ghost Hounds allow someone in or they are a Ghost Hound themselves. The base is rather tidy considering that it's basically run by exiles; it's modern and a relatively nice place to be (if someone is alright with rowdy exiles and criminals). There are facilities, designated sectors, rooms, ect.

Calcharo's real age is unknown, but he is speculated to be somewhere between his late thirties and early forties.

Male + Man + He + Him + His

Calcharo is a tall man with a slim but we built body, and he's somewhere between 6'1 feet tall and 6'3 feet tall (give or take).