Zenless Zone Zero
Table of Contents
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Background
Zenless Zone Zero
Welcome to the world of New Eridu! A world where ether energy creates monsters that can easily tear the average human apart, and hollows can appear at a moment's notice and wipe entire cities off the map! I know it sounds scary on the outside, but make no mistake, New Eridu is a place brimming with fiery-hearted and bright-eyed people who fight for those who cannot fight themselves. Using elemental abilities to explore these monster-infested Hollows, find their fortunes, and pave the way to regaining the territory lost to the haunting Hollows. Whether you are here to take over, help those who are searching for a solution to the Hollows, or just make money is up to you!
Regardless of what you do, welcome brave Jumper, to NEW ERIDU!
Take these points to create your life in this new world. Your budget; 1000cp! Any 100cp perk, item, or companion that is discounted is free. Perks and items from your chosen background are discounted by 50 percent.
Background
Your background is your starting line. It will dictate your history in this world. The drop-in option is for those who would rather be unknown to this world.
Drop-In
You appear in your starting location with no previous history here. While you don’t have any conflicting memories or enemies plotting against you, you also have no allies or footing to help you get started.
Proxy
You are one of the few people skilled in traversing Hollows. While being a Proxy is illegal in most places you have always had an interest in Hollows from a young age. Despite the danger, you used your youth to study and have become a budding Proxy ready to navigate an otherwise inescapable environment.
Public Sec Officer
You always admired Pub Sec and from a young age strived to become an officer. After recently passing the exams you are now a bright-eyed recruit in Public Security. Ready to take a stand against any who would threaten the innocent.
Faction Member
Somehow you were roped into joining a small group of like-minded individuals who are looking to make it big the old-fashioned way. You are a member of a small team who mostly does odd jobs in hopes of making it rich and becoming a famous team.
Criminal
You were not given a fair shake in life. From an early age, you’ve learned that life is not fair and then you die. After losing so many people close to you, you decided to pave your own path in life. Turning to a life of crime you will live as you please and nobody will tell you otherwise.
Infected
Ether corruption happens to those unlucky enough to find themselves within a Hollow for too long. And unfortunately, you have found yourself abandoned within a Hollow for longer than your body can handle. You have now been turned into an ethereal with all of the perks and (mostly) banes that come with it. Regardless of your starting location, you will start your stay here within a Hollow, whether it is an existing one or a new Hollow that appears right on top of you.
Race
You can freely choose your gender and age, within reasonable limits for your race.
Human - 0cp
Your standard human option. Humans make up the majority of the population in New Eridu.
Thiren - 100cp
Thirens are a race of humanoid creatures with anthropomorphic qualities. This can range from being primarily human in appearance with subtle traits such as ears or a tail, to being primarily anthropomorphic in figure being covered in fur/scales and/or having different bone structures. You are free to choose your animal traits and how heavily these traits affect your appearance. Regardless of how prominent your animalistic features are, you possess physical traits that are vastly superior to a human’s. These traits can differ depending on the animal (with a rat or cat being faster and more agile while a horse or a bear might have better stamina or greater strength).
Android - 300cp
You were constructed by someone with a brilliant mind and a caring heart. Despite being human in appearance, you are now a machine built to replicate human life. Your physical attributes vastly outstrip even a thiren in all categories. You do not require air, food, or water. However, you require regular charging, and electronic attacks such as EMPs can stun you momentarily. You also possess the ability to interact with and potentially hack nearby electronic devices.
Ethereal (Free and mandatory for Infected)
You will find that your new body has unfortunately been corrupted by ether. This has caused your body to mutate into a monstrous form of your choosing. The only limitations are that you must be around the same height as an average human and you cannot gain any extra limbs or appendages. You will find yourself quite a bit stronger, more durable, and faster than any average human, but ultimately still being nothing but fodder for those talented few who exist within this world.
Starting Location
You can choose your location freely or gain 100cp and have your location chosen for you randomly.
Sixth Street - The quiet and cozy home of the legendary Phatheon. This small street has every small time shop a jumper could need.
Lumina Square - One of the largest cities and home to the public security home base. This sprawling concrete jungle is the perfect home for all the big city lovers.
Scott Outpost - A military base dedicated to the study of the hollows. Their goal is to someday reclaim the land lost to hollow zero and prevent future hollow disasters.
Outer Ring - An expansive and wild desert where oil acts as the life blood of the residents. Home to many a biker gang and the renowned Sons of Calydon.
Hollow Zero - One of the most dangerous places in this world. A giant hollow that houses some of the most dangerous hollows to exist.
Perks
Drop-In
Just a Friendly Person 100cp
You are just so easy to get along with. Most people will naturally find you to be friendly and will find themselves more willing to trust you. This doesn't work on everyone and this does not mean that you will instantly become friends with anyone, just that people tend to find you more approachable and friendly
Bangboo Creator 200cp
You now have all of the knowledge and skills needed to create and repair bangboo. Your skills would easily allow you to open your own shop making custom-tailored bangboo
Business Master 400cp
Your skills in running a business are in the top 1%. You can easily turn a small business that sells records into a multi-million dollar company. No matter the product you can have customers flock to your business.
Genius Engineer 600cp
The world of ZZZ is filled with amazing technology. From piloted mechs to realistic androids to the small and friendly bangboo. You are now someone who others look to for the next big thing in technology. You can easily recreate most pieces of technology found in the world with nothing but a short inspection. Even creating highly advanced AI or lifelike androids is something that is within the realm of possibility given a year or two of study. You will have the talent and skill to lead the world into a new age of technology!
Proxy
Bangboo Befriender 100cp
Have an easy time befriending and speaking to bangboos. Even bangboo belonging to others would have no problem speaking with and trusting you without input from their owners.
Hollow Navigator 200cp
You are adept at navigating Hollows. You have years of experience in navigating Hollows so you are confident in doing so and skilled in leading others safely and efficiently through Hollows. In future jumps, this will apply to any locations you may find yourself in that are similarly ever-changing like the Hollows of this world.
Unknown 400cp
You are amazing at hiding your identity. You could outright admit to being a wanted criminal to the headof police and as long as you don’t want to be found out they would never believe you. You are also great at lying to others and if you admit to your lies, a well-placed heartfelt apology and gift will have them forgive you in no time.
Doctorate in Hollows 600cp
Able to effortlessly make complex calculations quickly. Find patterns in anything and use any information available to navigate ever-changing environments, solve puzzles, and predict actions/behaviors or others.
Public Security Officer
Boot Camp Training 100cp
You are adept at the fundamentals of being an officer. You have around 5 years of training in hand-to-hand combat, marksmanship, physical conditioning, and knowledge of the law. You have all the skills necessary to be a competent law enforcer.
Model Officer 200cp
You are what all officers should strive to be. You are head and shoulders above most officers in terms of knowledge of the law and physical ability. You are equal to the likes of Zhu Yuan and Qingyi in terms of raw talent and ability
Incorruptible 400cp
In a world where secret organizations and corruption run rampant, you stand as an incorruptible pillar. No matter what you will hold to your ideals and do what you think is best. No slick words or tempting promises will sway you. You are also immune to the altering effects of mind control, hypnosis, mental suggestion, etc.
Beacon of Justice 600cp
You are a true officer of Justice. Your very presence inspires those who witness you fighting. In a world filled with dread you single-handedly bring hope to others. Your very existence fills the hearts of criminals with fear and pushes your other officers to be better. Any corruption within any organization you are a part of will be snuffed out over time without you so much as having to lift a finger. If you were to actively hunt down those corrupted individuals there is nothing they could do to escape you.
Faction Member
Contacts 100cp
You have a small network of contacts and relationships that will bring you off jobs and tasks you can complete for money. Whether it's something big like fighting off a local gang or something as small as saving a turtle from a tree. These jobs will always pay enough for you and anyone in your group to live comfortably.
Tactical Teamwork 200cp
Working with a group of people is not always about how close you are. Your effectiveness as a team hinges on how well you can work and fight together. With this perk, you and anyone you work with will always work together well. Whether it is in the heat of battle or planning a heist. You and your team will never have miscommunication or unintended mishaps. Your teamwork and effectiveness will only grow the closer you get to your teammates and friends.
Skill Magnet 400cp
You attract greatness, literally! You will now often encounter people of immense talent and/or ability. These meetings always put you in a favorable position with those you meet. This does not guarantee that they will end up following you but it does put you in a very good position to make many powerful and skilled allies.
Bonded Boost 600cp
A team is only as strong as its weakest link. Well now any team you are a part of has no weak link. Anyone you ally with will find their strength growing to match your own. Their strength will never actually equal your own but it will be comparable. And you never need to worry about betrayal with this perk as anyone who finds themselves attempting betrayal or in your bad graces will immediately lose any power gained through this perk.
Criminal
Criminal Skills 100cp
You wouldn't be much of a criminal without these skills. You are adept at the basic skills required for all aspiring criminals; pickpocketing, lock picking, intimidation, street fighting, marksmanship with small firearms, and similar skills.
Networking Guru 200cp
You have a small network of spies, informants, and arms dealers in your pocket. You are also adept at making lasting connections with those others may find less than respectable. This includes; arms dealers, spies, informants, corrupt officers, and even a corrupt politician or two. You are also proficient when it comes to finding and connecting with others with skills valuable to a prospective criminal mastermind.
Model Leader 400cp
Easily able to inspire those who work under you to inspire absolute loyalty. Those who work for you would rather die than betray you and your cause. You can also easily convert any spies or traitors to your cause.
Brick Build 600cp
You are one tough S.O.B. You hit harder and are much harder to put down. You can easily survive wounds that would kill a normal person with nothing but some rest. Your strength is around double what would be normal for your race and your durability is increased by a similar amount. Your natural healing factor allows you to recover from life-threatening wounds with just a few days of rest.
Infected
Anti-Ether Mind 100cp
You will always be you no matter what happens to your body. You retain your mind and personality despite your body changing into an ethereal. This perk extends to all body-changing infections (such as changes in the same vein as becoming a zombie).
Ether Elite 200cp
You are a cut above the standard Ethereals. You are stronger, faster, and more durable than the average ethereal, being around twice as strong and durable. You are in line with any of the other elite ethereals, even being able to harness ether energy for various ranged attacks or physical enhancements. You also have a natural weapon of your choosing. It can range from bone claws, a bladed tail, spiked wings, etc. Should you not be an ethereal, you will gain a similar boost in power. You will also have your natural weapons (nails and teeth) strengthened into lethal weapons capable of destroying concrete without so much as a chip or scratch.
Stage 2 400cp
The strongest ethereals all have one thing in common. Just when you think they are down for the count, they unleash their secret weapon. A weapon that you now inherit. When you are thoroughly defeated, you can trigger an evolution that doubles your power. Your body undergoes various mutations of your choosing that can range from growing extra limbs, growing in height, gaining armor, etc. This form will last until you are killed or until you defeat your current foes. Humans and androids will receive access to an “overdrive” state instead, obtaining a similar boost in power without the physical mutations. Thirens will gain access to a more monstrous and bestial form, akin to the traditional werebeast, which provides them an equal boost in combat ability while also providing a boost to their natural instincts and reflexes.
Hollow Monarch 600cp
You are a monarch of the Hollows, secondonly to Nineveh. You can command weaker ethereals to do your bidding and can unleash a cry to call any nearby ethereals to your location. You can also “unleash” ethereals. This will cause a small transformation where they take on traits similar to your own and gain a significant boost in power. Due to this influx of ether energy, this also causes any ethereals affected to become enraged and feral. They will lash out and attack any nearby creatures, and you will find that you cannot control them with this ability.
Elemental Affinity
You get an extra 300cp to spend on this section.
Element (free)
You are granted an affinity for one of this world\'s five primary elements (fire, electric, ice, ether, and physical). You have enough training in your chosen element to have a basic moveset utilizing your element. You are also granted a basic weapon and training with said weapon. This weapon can range from a classic sword to a briefcase that houses a cannon to a pair of flamethrower tonfas. Be as creative as you like (within reason)! For those who have chosen the infected background, your elemental abilities can be integrated into your body or any natural weapons you possess.
Ether Resistance (0/300cp)
What is the use of elemental powers if you get turned into an Ethereal as soon as you step into a Hollow? No longer! With this perk, you now possess an extremely high level of resistance to ether corruption. You can spend around 3 days within a Hollow before you feel any negative effects. Should you have chosen the Infected background this perk will allow you to exist outside of a Hollow for the same amount of time before you start to experience effects similar to ether corruption. Remaining outside of a Hollow too long will have you withering away entirely. For 300cp you can upgrade this to total ether immunity, allowing you to stay within a Hollow as long as you see fit. If you choose the Infected background, this allows you to live indefinitely outside of a Hollow. Happy hunting!
Elemental Combat 100/500cp
You are now a master of your chosen weapon. You have enough skill to beat three of your peers at once with your chosen weapon. You can also use your element as if it was an extension of yourself. Never accidentally causing harm to yourself or others while using it. For an extra 400cp, your combat skills are elevated to the level of a Void Hunter. You can easily handle swarms of lesser ethereals, and can even take down “boss” level ethereals alone without much effort. Your raw talent and skill in utilizing your weapon and element are on par with the likes of Miyabi and the rest of Sector Six.
Elemental Buildup 200cp
Your elemental attacks cause an elemental buildup of your chosen element. The more attacks you land in a short time, the more build-up the enemy will acquire. Once “full” the target explodes in an elemental blast of your chosen element. Suffering multiple blasts of different elements within quick succession causes a mixed-element blast that deals double the damage for both elements.
Elemental Withering 400cp
The more you hit someone with your element the less resistant they become to that element. With enough exposure, someone who was normally immune to your element would find themselves taking double or triple damage from it. This withering effect lasts for 10 minutes and refreshes after every attack using your element.
Elemental Fusion 600cp
After years of training your element has evolved. Your element now can take on the properties of another. Choose another element to become your “sub-element”. This will combine the two to create a new effect for your element. Create flames that hit like physical attacks, ether that is as fast as lightning and paralyzes enemies, or even ice that continues to spread like flames. Fanwank responsibly. This does not give you access to another element but simply modifies your chosen element to have an additional property.
Elemental Duality 800cp
You have accomplished something that no one to date has, you have crossed the boundary and have obtained access to a second element. You may choose another of the five elements to gain control of. You may freely swap between both elements at will and with practice will be able to utilize both elements at will. Any perks you have purchased within this section also apply to your second element.
Items
You get an extra 300cp to spend on this section.
You Very Own Bangboo 100cp
This small and adorable mechanical assistant is irreplaceable for any aspiring hollow explorer. Your bangboo can help you navigate even the most dangerous hollows. It will also come equipped with a weapon of your choosing that will deal the same damage as your elemental affinity. You are also able to freely design your bangboo’s style and aesthetic.
Coffee Chef 100cp
This coffee maker can create gourmet cups of coffee in mere minutes. These cups of coffee will always taste amazing despite your usual preference for coffee. They are also guaranteed to leave you feeling awake and energized.
Vehicle 200cp
This trusty rig will see you through from point A to point B without fail. This is a land vehicle of your choosing, however, it must be a commercial vehicle (no tanks or land boats!). It does not require fuel and can safely travel through Hollows without being affected by ether corruption.
Anti-Ether Fashion 200cp
This fashionable set of clothing was custom-tailored to your preferences. While it may only appear to be an amazingly fashionable set of clothing, it is secretly a state-of-the-art scientific achievement. This set of clothing was designed to help the average person survive inside a hollow. While wearing this set, your ability to withstand ether corruption is multiplied by five. This protection extends to any similar corruption effects you may encounter in future jumps. While it may not offer a high level of protection in combat, it will be an invaluable tool when combating corruption.
High Tech Mech 400 cp
This giant mech was abandoned inside a Hollow by an unknown criminal organization after they were busted by a (not so) well-known undercover agent. It stands around 14 feet tall and comes equipped with state-of-the-art weaponry varying from vibrating blades, energy cannons, mounted machine guns, and a slew of other armaments. It responds to your voice and can understand simple commands. It cannot think for itself and will have trouble following complex orders, but in terms of raw power, not many other mechs will be able to compare. It is also highly resistant to ether corruption.
VR Training Facility 400cp
This state-of-the-art training facility will allow you to train in a safe environment. It can transport your mind into the virtual world where you can play out any scenario you could want from combat scenarios to reliving your high school days. No matter the danger you will never suffer any physical or mental damage you may take while within the simulation. This machine can hold up to four people at a time and is highly resistant to attempts to hack it from the outside.
Mecha-Guard 600cp
This beautiful machine is a top-of-the-line guardian for all those who dream of venturing into even the most dangerous of hollows. Its design is entirely up to you, but it will always stand around 7 feet tall, humanoid in shape, and be very obviously mechanical. It comes equipped with energy shields, cloaking technology, energy blades and rifles, life support systems, and jet thrusters. It can easily follow your most complex commands but lacks a personality and mind of its own. It can easily be equipped with any potential AI you may need a home for.
AI Guardian 600cp
This AI is anyone's dream. Its personality is completely up to you, but it will always be entirely loyal to you. This powerhouse is capable of a wide range of technical talents including but not limited to; hacking, Hollow navigation, high-speed research, accounting, business management, therapy, and much more. Pretty much anything Fairy can do, your AI can also do.
Cursed Blade 800cp
This blade (or standard weapon you want) was forged using an unknown method using unstable etheric material. The outcome was a weapon of unparalleled power, granting its wielder enough power to easily decimate hordes of lesser Ethereals without any prior training or combat experience. Should a skilled wielder take up this weapon, they could decimate even “boss” level Ethereals without much effort. This weapon is also home to a sentient being, akin to a cursed spirit. Unlike a certain fox thiren’s katana, your spirit is one of a nurturing disposition, guiding and caring for you like a concerned guardian. You never need to worry about this spirit turning against you or being used to harm those you do not wish it to. The spirit will also ensure that the weapon can only be used by you and those you allow. As a bonus, this weapon will grow in power as you do. No matter your strength this weapon can significantly boost your combat ability. You may import an existing weapon into this item.
Companions
Import (100/200cp)
Pay 100CP to import or create up to two companions for each 100CP you spend. They gain an origin, 600CP to spend and all the associated discounts and free stuff you would get. Alternatively, you can import or create up to two companions for 200CP each.They will receive 1000CP just as you did. They can take drawbacks and items but cannot take other companions or bonds.
Canon Companion (100cp)
You may convince one existing person from the setting to join you on your travels each time you purchase this option. They will not be guaranteed to accept but the purchase will ensure that your initial meeting will paint you in a favorable light.
Proxy Partner 200cp (Discount Proxy)
This young boy is secretly a master proxy. While not as (in)famous as Phaethon his skills are well above the average proxy. While on the outside this boy has the body of a middle schooler he is secretly an android created by an unknown scientist. He has the android race but lacks the physical enhancements listed above. To accommodate his lack of physical ability this boy is a genius when it comes to Hollows. He stands around 4’3” tall. His usual dark hoodie hides his average-length back hair and purple eyes. This video game-loving boy has decided to help you on your journey. He has 600cp to spend in the Proxy background.
Apprentice Officer 200cp (Discount Pub Sec Officer )
This little fiery lass is a new recruit at Pub Sec. You two met on her first assignment where you helped her take down a group of criminals who had gotten the upper hand on her. She is relatively short with blonde hair she draws back into a spiky ponytail.
Vibrant green eyes that complement her freckled face. But don't let her looks fool you. She is a loud-mouthed and aggressive individual who believes that true justice can be achieved by those who are strong enough to enforce it. However, this aggressive attitude hides her deep fear of being weak which stems from a violent childhood. She has become attached to you although she will never admit it, believing that you are someone she needs to protect and refuses to believe otherwise. She has 600 cp to spend in the Pub Sec background.
Right Hand 200cp (Discount Criminal)
This young man grew up in an unstable home which was only made worse when his old home was swallowed by a hollow. His harsh upbringing has turned him into a bit of a delinquent who, despite his more reserved nature, lives by the motto “punch first and ask questions later”. You saved him from getting arrested by Pub Sec and offered for him to join you on your journey. Since then he has become fiercely loyal to you and will not hesitate to “handle” anyone who tries to interfere with your plans. He stands around 5’10” with dark red hair. He has a rather muscular build and various scars across his body from the constant fights. He has 600cp to spend on the Criminal background.
Assistant 200cp (Discount Faction Leader)
This woman appeared on your doorstep one day asking for a job as an assistant. She is highly skilled in nearly all domestic fields. She is a master chef, mechanic, plumber, accountant, engineer, and maid to name a few things. She is an older woman in her 40s who stands at an astonishing 6’5”. Her long raven hair frames her beautiful (yet often expressionless) face. She seems to be able to assist you in nearly any task and should you own a business, she will have no problem running the business. Despite your repeated attempts, she refuses any kind of raise and always says that serving you is more than payment enough. She has 600cp to spend in the Faction Leader background.
Corrupted Pal 200cp (Discount Infected)
This Ethereal was once a young pup whose owner had abandoned them inside a hollow. They were quickly overwhelmed by the ether radiation and turned into a large animalistic ethereal. You met this creature by chance while inside a hollow and after a brief scuffle you were ready to slay the creature when something made you pause and ultimately you decided to spare it. This act of kindness overwrote the hostility normally found within Ethereals and the creature bonded with you. What animal the creature takes after is up to you, it also gains 600cp to spend in the Infected background.
Bonds
“What are we without the bonds of those close to our hearts?” Bonds are optional and may only be taken if you meet the appropriate requirements. The characters listed below may still be taken as companions via the “Canon Companion” option. Taking a bond simply guarantees the character will accept your offer and provides you with a unique history and relationship with them. You may take as many bonds as you qualify for.
Phaethon (Requirements: Proxy background + Unknown + Doctorate in Hollows)
You have just upgraded the Phaethon duo to the Phatheon trio! You are now a sibling to both Wise and Belle. Whether by blood or bonds, You grew up in an orphanage with the siblings and have been inseparable since you were kids. They would do anything for you as you would for them. When the Hollow expanded you made sure that they made it out safe. You live with them and help them run their video store while moonlighting as a legendary proxy and an original member of Phaethon!
Zhu Yuan (Requirements: Pub Sec Officer background + Beacon of Justice + Background)
You and Zhu Yuan have been thick as thieves ever since childhood. You two always dreamed of becoming officers together and even entered the academy at the same time. You both quickly climbed the ranks together. People see you both as shining examples of what it means to be an officer. Secretly, you are Zhu Yuan’s entire reason for wanting to be an officer. Your bravery, determination, and relationship inspired her to follow in your footsteps. She may have a (tiny) crush on you which may (or may not!) have made her want to be close to you at all times. Your bond truly is unbreakable and, should you make the first move, can blossom into a love that will shine bright no matter the darkness that you two will face.
Burnice (Requirements: Faction Member background + Elemental affinity (fire) + Skill Magnet)
You met Burnice when she was still just a child. Even as a youngster, her friendliness and carefree attitude warmed your otherwise dark and gloomy soul. She became someone you could rely on to cheer you up no matter how dark things seemed. And in turn, you became someone she could rely on to make sure she didn't get into too much trouble and someone who could bail her out when she was in over her head. You two would do just about anything for each other. When she joined the Sons of Calydon, you two began to see each other less due to either conflicting schedules or distance. However, your bond never wavered and one push from you could cause your relationship to quickly spiral into one of joyful love that can have you both face the horrors this world can offer with bright smiles on your faces.
Jane Doe (Requirements: Criminal background + Networking Guru + Brick Build)
Jane Doe was sent in to infiltrate a criminal organization as an undercover agent. She infiltrated the group the same day you joined, with both of you being sworn in together . You two met early on and became fast “friends”. As time went on you both climbed the ranks together and you quickly found your loyalty falling more and more with Jane. One night when explaining your reasons for joining the organization Jane found herself doing something she had never done: trusting someone else. She told you about her mission and you decided to help her. Together, you two dismantled the gang from the inside, but even after completing her mission the two of you stayed in touch. You decided to start your own organization, one that would work outside the laws to do what Pub Sec cannot. If you stick to those beliefs, your relationship with Jane will grow. You become someone Jane can truly be herself around, she will become someone you can face the underbelly of the world with. Jane and Jumper will become names the underworld fears and Pub Sec respects. The Jumper and the Rat.
Miyabi (Infected Background + The Unlikable drawback + Anti-Ether mind)
Miyabi was there when you lost yourself. You were part of a research team sent into Hollow Zero. An accident occurred that left you trapped alone. Miyabi and Section 6 were sent in to rescue survivors, however by the time she found you it was too late. She stayed with you while you lost yourself. But something miraculous happened. After turning into an etheral you retained your mind. Somehow someway you were able to convince her to spare your life. She brought you back to Section 6 for safety. There you made fast friends with the rest of the team. Miyabi understands what it can feel like to fight against yourself. She swore to protect you and help you navigate your new form and power. Helping her protect the innocent and find a way to take down dangerous Ethereals can lead to your bond strengthening and evolving into a deep and mutual respect and connection. And a union that Ethereals will come to fear.
Seth
You first met Seth one night while exploring Lumina Square. It might not have been the best idea to take a shortcut through an alleyway in the middle of the night. Your “brilliant” idea ended with you being surrounded by three thugs wanting to make a quick buck at your expense. Before you could “handle” your business, an unfamiliar officer rushed to your rescue. You found his constant rambling about honor and chivalry to be endearing. He easily dispatched the thugs and, after checking on you, quickly took his leave. It was a memorable experience for sure, but ultimately not one you gave much thought to. However, you were very surprised to see this same officer out of uniform a few hours later standing outside the movie theater, looking like a scared little kitten. You decided to approach him and make conversation, and it turned out his brother pressured (bullied) him into seeing a new horror film alone. Despite trying to act bravely, his drastic shift in demeanor from early made you chuckle. You offered to watch the movie with him as repayment for earlier. His constant jumping, shrieking, and eye-covering sure made the movie a lot more entertaining. After that, you two kept in touch and met up a few times. Your next few hangouts will decide what kind of bond will grow between you two. Should you share his ideals of bravery and honor, your bond will find you two becoming a duo that can face down any obstacle with chivalrous might.
Lycaon
As a youth, you loved to explore the world and take part in new experiences. One summer day, you and your friends made plans to take a cruise together and travel the world. Despite your insistence that you were old enough to take care of yourself, your guardians hired someone to look after you and your friends. The newest face in Victoria Housekeeping Co., Von Lycaon, was hired to be your escort. Not long into your trip your boat was suddenly swallowed by a newly formed Hollow. You and your friends ended up separated, with you quickly encountering a few Ethereals. After narrowly escaping your aggressors you were found by a frantic Lycaon, severely injured and missing one of your limbs. When you came to you were informed that you were the only survivor, the rest of your friends being either killed or succumbing to ether corruption. This was one of the first and only failures Von Lycaon has experienced while a member of Victoria Housekeeping. His guilt and sense of personal responsibility have led him to keep in contact with you, something he keeps secret from the rest of his group. Despite your insistence that it was not his fault, he often sneaks texts to you or when he can he will arrive at your doorstep to check up on you and have lunch. These secret meetups have caused you two to grow quite close, you being one of the only people who know the betrayal he suffered before joining Victoria Housekeeping. Your understanding and acceptance of him allow you to become one of the only people to see Lycaon shed his formal attitude in favor of a more casual and vulnerable man. Should you wish, you can nurture the bond between you two into one of trust, growth, and quiet understanding. You will become one of the only people to melt the ice surrounding the big bad wolf of Victoria Housekeeping Co.
Grace (Android Race)
Grace was the one to find your body; damaged, discarded, and abandoned within a Hollow. She initially entered the Hollow to test out some of her new kids. After going on a small rampage, one of her machines ended up destroying a small building and uncovering your lifeless form. She was instantly enamored with your body and quickly returned home with her discovery. She spent months tirelessly working to restore you to your former glory. After many sleepless nights, you finally awake, and your first sight is the exhausted, overworked, and crazy eyes of the Iron Witch. The following days were spent with Grace glued to your side, constantly observing and testing you. Despite her constant attention, both mentally and (very) physically, you always got the impression that Grace was more interested in your body than you as a person. One late night while staring at the sea, you and Grace had a heart-to-heart. You took the time to explain your feelings to Grace, how you were eternally grateful for everything she has done for you, but also how you felt unseen by her. Grace was silent for a long moment before explaining why she is obsessed with machines and why she has to take great care with her work to save the lives of everyone she cares about. The following days carried an unseen tension between you two. Should you be willing to make the effort, you and Grace can work together to form a bond that transcends man and machine. A bond that will require lots of work, but will ultimately lead you two into a new relationship, one that bridges the gap between the living and the mechanical.
Nicole (Faction Member Background ( bonded boost perk)
You first met Nicole after passing by an orphanage on your way to Sixth Street. You remember seeing a young woman with vibrant pink hair surrounded by children being pressured by a couple of guys in suits. Quickly making your decision, you approached the young woman as if you were a worried lover. The thugs didn't waiver however, insisting that this woman owed them a lot of money; money which they witnessed her spend on the kids. Before anything could escalate into violence, you offered to work off the debt your lover acquired. After a bit of back and forth in which they threatened to burn down the orphanage, you were hired to retrieve some materials from inside a Hollow. The young woman, who you found was named Nicole, was both grateful and furious with you, insisting that she would help you with this job. After entering the Hollow you struck up a conversation that led to the bonding session, with you two swapping embarrassing stories about the trouble you often find yourself in. During the job you ended up taking a nasty hit meant for Nicole. Despite her protests, you two completed the job, with Nicole nearly forcing you to find the nearest hospital immediately after. After a day or two you were released only to find that your entire bill had already been