Editing Jaren/Rising

{{Notice/Rising}}
{{Character infobox
|variant=Human
|name=Jaren
|image=[[File:Jaren MIND.jpg|300px]]
|othernames=The Bounty Hunter
|species=[[Human/Rising|Human]]
|gender=Male
|eyes=Brown
|hair=Brown
|affiliation=
|class=[[Lightbearer/Rising|Lightbearer]] {{C|{{Icon/Rising|Solar}} Solar}}
|rank=
|notable=
}}
{{Quote|A lone Lightbearer unaffiliated with any organizations. No matter how daunting the task, if Jaren takes the job, consider it done.}}
'''Jaren''' is a Lightbearer risen by [[Hartford/Rising|Hartford]]. He is a playable character in ''[[Destiny: Rising]]'', and first introduced in ''[[Season of the Moor]]''.

==Biography==
{{Stub|section=yes}}

==Gameplay==
{{Relic infobox
|name= Vows
|image= [[File:Vows Files.jpg|300px]]
|othernames=
|manufacturer=
|style=
|element= {{Icon/Rising|Solar}} Solar
|core= Damage Resistance<ref name="DamageRes" group="Key Word">'''[Damage Resistance]''': Grants themselves damage resistance.</ref><br>Blind<ref name="Blind" group="Key Word">'''[Blind]''': Renders combatants unable to attack and makes them lose control of their movement.</ref><br>Mobility<ref name="Mobility" group="Key Word">'''[Mobility]''': Can swiftly move across the battlefield.</ref>
|service= 
|affiliation=
}}

===Overview===
;Traits
*'''Mythic'''
*'''[[Solar/Rising|Solar]]'''
*'''Offense'''
*'''Medium Range Combat'''

;Weapons
*[[Hand Cannon/Rising|Hand Cannon]]
*[[Shotgun/Rising|Shotgun]]

===Relic Abilities===
;Passive
*'''Stag Protection'''
Landing weapon hits grants '''1''' stack of '''Stag Totem''' (up to '''1''' stack can be gained every '''0.2'''s via this method). Defeating combatants or dealing damage with '''Blazing Shot'''/'''High Noon Duel''' also grants '''1 Stag Totem''' stack. Defeating Elites or stronger combatants, or hitting the same target with at least '''50%''' of the pellets in a single '''Shotgun''' trigger pull grants an additional '''1 Stag Totem''' stack.

Up to '''48 Stag Totem''' stacks can be held at a time, and Jaren starts combat with '''48''' stacks.

Once '''Stag Totem''' reaches '''48''' stacks, it will restore '''1''' charge of '''Emergency Evasion'''. If Jaren casts either of his Signature Abilities at this time, he will consume all '''Stag Totem''' stacks to enter the '''Stag Protection'''<ref name="StagProtection" group="Key Word">'''[Stag Protection]''': Grants Jaren '''Control Immunity''' for '''6'''s and enhances his Signature Abilities. - The Light-infused rounds of '''Blazing Shot''' deal +'''30%''' damage, and their damage will no longer decrease if they consecutively hit the same combatant. '''Emergency Evasion''''s shock grenade deals +'''30%''' damage, and its damage resistance effect is increased by an additional '''20%'''. <br> '''[Control Immunity]''': Removes and grants immunity to debuffs such as '''Blind''', '''Corruption''', '''Suppression''', '''Confinement''', '''Silence''', and '''Slowdown'''.</ref> state for '''12'''s.


;Signatures
*'''Blazing Shot''' 18.0s
Jaren marks combatants' weak spots and rapidly fires Light-infused bullets at them with '''Vows''', dealing Solar damage. Light-infused bullets that could not deal damage will refund ability energy.

Jaren draws '''Vows''' and marks the weak spots of up to '''6''' combatants within the reticle.

Releasing the ability button fires '''6''' Light-infused bullets at the marked combatants' weak spots in the order they were marked, dealing '''402'''<ref name="SkillSigSolarBlazing" group="Parameter">This value is affected by '''[Skill Strength][Signature Boost][Solar Boost]''' - This damage scales with '''Blazing Shot''''s level.</ref> Solar damage per shot. If Light-infused bullets hit the same target consecutively, the damage dealt will gradually decrease to a minimum of '''50%'''.

The number of marks and the order combatants were marked in determines the number of Light-infused bullets each combatant will be hit with upon firing. If a round cannot deal damage, it will refund '''16%''' energy.

Only combatants within a '''30'''-meter radius can be marked, and once they are more than '''30'''m away or leave the screen's range, they will lose their mark. Light-infused bullets have a max range of '''30'''m. If no combatants could be marked by the time Jaren stops aiming, the ability energy consumed will be refunded.

*'''Emergency Evasion''' 12.0s
'''Damage Resistance'''<ref name="DamageRes" group="Key Word"/> '''Blind'''<ref name="Blind" group="Key Word"/> '''Mobility'''<ref name="Mobility" group="Key Word"/>

Jaren jumps and throws a shock grenade, dealing Solar damage to combatants and inflicting them with '''Blind'''. This also reloads both weapons with '''100%''' of their magazine capacity and grants Jaren '''Acceleration''' and '''Damage Resistance'''.

Jaren jumps up to '''12'''m in the direction he's moving in and gains '''Invisibility''' for a short period of time.

Jumping reloads both weapons with '''100%''' of their magazine capacity while also granting Jaren '''40% Acceleration''' and '''20% Damage Resistance''' for '''6'''s and '''8'''s respectively.

A shock grenade will also be thrown up to '''16'''m away in the reticle's direction, dealing '''275'''<ref name="SkillSigSolarEmergency" group="Parameter">This value is affected by '''[Skill Strength][Signature Boost][Solar Boost]''' - This damage scales with '''Emergency Evasion''''s level.</ref> Solar damage to combatants within an '''8'''-meter radius and inflicting them with '''Blind''' for '''3'''s.

This ability starts with '''2''' charges.


;Super
*'''High Noon Duel''' 120.0s
Jaren enters his Super state, infusing both his equipped '''Hand Cannon''' and '''Vows''' with Solar Light and firing them alternately. Jaren's shots automatically lock onto the weak spots of combatants within a '''30'''-meter radius, dealing Solar damage. Entering the Super state also fully recharges '''Emergency Evasion'''.

Jaren draws both his equipped '''Hand Cannon''' and '''Vows''', infusing them with Light and entering his Super state.

While his Super is active, each attack will alternate between firing his equipped '''Hand Cannon''' and '''Vows'''. While firing, Jaren will automatically lock onto the weak spots of targets within the reticle and within a '''30'''-meter radius, dealing '''675'''<ref name="SkillSuperSolarHigh" group="Parameter">This value is affected by '''[Skill Strength][Super Boost][Solar Boost]''' - This damage scales with '''High Noon Duel''''s level.</ref> Solar damage.

Super-empowered shots deal full damage to targets within a '''30'''-meter radius. Exceeding this range will cause the damage to gradually fall off until it reaches the minimum of '''50%''' damage. Each round of shots fired consumes a varying number of bullets, with a total of '''18''' bullets per Super cast. If all bullets are used up, Jaren will exit his Super state early.

Entering the Super state fully restores '''Emergency Evasion''' charge. The Super state lasts for up to '''20'''s, during which Jaren gains +'''20%''' movement speed and a certain level of damage resistance.


;Relic Traits
*'''Skill Rewarded''': Dealing precision damage with weapons grants '''1''' stack of '''Skill Rewarded'''. Up to '''1''' stack can be accumulated every '''0.2'''s. Whenever '''Skill Rewarded''' reaches '''3''' stacks, it will be converted into '''2''' stacks of '''Stag Totem'''.

*'''Light's Requite''': Dealing damage with Jaren's abilities or '''Welling Light'''<ref name="WellingLight" group="Key Word">'''[Welling Light]''': Firing weapons deals an additional instance of Solar damage equal to '''40%''' of the weapon's damage. '''Welling Light''' stacks '''8'''x, and '''each''' shot fired consumes '''1''' stack. Additionally, weapons gain the ability to lock onto combatants' weak spots within a small range while '''Welling Light''' is active. The lock-on is ineffective against other Lightbearers.</ref> restores his total health equal to '''15%'''<ref name="HealingEmergency" group="Parameter">This value is affected by '''[Healing Enhancement]''' - This effect scales with '''Emergency Evasion''''s level.</ref> of the base damage dealt, without the ability for overflow healing.

*'''Clash of Fates''': If '''High Noon Duel''' deals damage to the same target consecutively within '''5'''s, damage dealt will increase. Each consecutive hit increases damage by '''10%''', up to a '''50%''' increase.


;Weapon Mastery
*'''Welling Light'''
:*'''LV.1''': While '''Stag Protection'''<ref name="StagProtection" group="Key Word"/> is active, overflowing Light enhances weapons, granting Jaren's '''Hand Cannon''' and '''Shotgun 4''' stacks of '''Welling Light'''<ref name="WellingLight" group="Key Word"/> each.

:*'''LV.2''': '''Welling Light''''s additional Solar damage ratio is increased to '''60%'''.

:*'''LV.3''': '''Welling Light''''s additional Solar damage ratio is increased to '''90%'''.

:*'''LV.4''': When '''Welling Light''' consecutively hits the same target within '''6'''s, it deals an additional '''10%''' damage each hit, increasing up to '''30%'''.

:*'''LV.5''': '''Welling Light''''s additional Solar damage ratio is increased to '''120%'''.

===Talent Tree===
*'''Dead Shot''': '''Blazing Shot''''s Light-infused bullets deal greater damage when fewer targets are marked, gaining up to '''30%''' additional damage bonus.

*'''Against the Odds''': After throwing '''Emergency Evasion''''s shock grenade, any damage Jaren deals for the next '''3'''s will restore his total health equal to '''5%'''<ref name="HealingEmergency" group="Parameter"/> of the base damage dealt, without the ability for overflow healing.

*'''Bitter Grudge''': Increases '''High Noon Duel''''s damage by an additional '''20%'''.

*'''Light's Eruption''': '''Welling Light''''s<ref name="WellingLight" group="Key Word"/> additional damage ratio is further increased by '''30%'''.

*'''Offense as Defense''': The duration of '''Blind'''<ref name="Blind" group="Key Word"/> inflicted by '''Emergency Evasion''' is increased by an additional '''1'''s.

*'''High Noon'''
When Jaren enters the '''Stag Protection'''<ref name="StagProtection" group="Key Word"/> state, '''Blazing Shot''''s max number of charges will temporarily increase by '''1''', and '''1''' charge will be instantly restored.

Additionally, while he's in the '''Stag Protection''' state, using the enhanced '''Blazing Shot''' to inflict '''Duel Mark''' increases the target's damage taken form Jaren by '''9% + 1% x number of Duel Mark stacks'''. Stacks '''6'''x and lasts '''8'''s.

==Files==
{{Verbatim}}
===Vows===
{{Quote|Never break a vow. Never forget a promise.}}

====Promises Broken====
Vows was born of a despicable betrayal.

Once just a common hand cannon, its wielder, on the brink of death, infused it with an excess of Light… When Jaren found it in a charred ruin, the infused Light had broken its body beyond repair. But that damage was also what turned it into a Relic fueled by Light.

===Jaren===
{{Quote|A lone Lightbearer unaffiliated with any organizations. No matter how daunting the task, if Jaren takes the job, consider it done.}}
Name: Jaren

Race: Human

Revival Location: Western North America

Ghost: Hartford

Relic: Vows

Shortly after Harford revived him in a canyon surrounded by high plains, Jaren joined a mercenary group, where he learned to survive and fight under the tutelage of two other Lightbearers. They wandered the land, completing jobs to earn resources and leading carefree, unrestrained lives. Unfortunately, under the catalysis of cruel reality, this period of time ultimately became an old memory, locked deep away and untouchable.

Since then, he has become unwilling to forge deep bonds with anyone, instead passing through human settlements with only Hartford as his companion, completing bounty after bounty.

===Hartford===
A dependable Ghost who is often troubled by his inability to choose his own shell.

==Audio==
{{Tabcontainer
|title1= Interactive Voice Lines
|content1=
'''Idle Dialogue 1''' <br> If something's beyond your control, then it has the potential to betray you one day.

'''Idle Dialogue 2''' <br> Vows isn't just my Relic. It's my promise to Marco.

'''Idle Dialogue 3''' <br> Nothing's more important than living. Ideals and vengeance are good and all, but you need to live if you want to pursue them.

'''Idle Dialogue 4''' <br> Being a wanderer has its perks. It's hard to form bonds over a short period of time, and no bonds to influence your decisions means safety.

'''Idle Dialogue 5''' <br> People will betray you, but a gun never will.

'''Idle Dialogue 6''' <br> Caution and attention to detail can help you avoid most dangers. As for the unavoidable ones… Well, that's what your gun's for.

'''Idle Dialogue 7''' <br> '''Hartford''': Jaren, you ever miss that period in your life when…

'''Idle Dialogue 8''' <br> No.

'''Idle Dialogue 9''' <br> '''Hartford''': …but I didn't say which one.

'''Idle Dialogue 10''' <br> Don't ever put yourself in danger, Hartford. Never.

'''Idle Dialogue 11''' <br> '''Hartford''': Don't worry. I won't leave this world before you do.

'''Touch Interaction 1''' <br> Got any new jobs?

'''Touch Interaction 2''' <br> The eyes never lie. So don't ask me why I'm always wearing sunglasses.

'''Touch Interaction 3''' <br> My responsibilities extend only to accepting jobs, completing jobs, and getting paid. Everything else is none of my business.

'''Touch Interaction 4''' <br> Everything I do—be it taking a life or saving one—comes at a price.

'''Touch Interaction 5''' <br> The words spoken once a shot's fired are either the ultimate truth, or the ultimate lie.

'''Touch Interaction 6''' <br> Bullets can force the truth out—in most cases, that is.

'''Touch Interaction 7''' <br> Any urgent business on the agenda, Hartford?

'''Touch Interaction 8''' <br> '''Hartford''': No. Maybe you can go clean your guns? They've been bearing a heavy burden lately.

'''Touch Interaction 9''' <br> '''Hartford''': Jaren, I want to pick out a new shell for myself.

'''Touch Interaction 10''' <br> You already know my answer, Hartford. I like your current one, so—no.

'''Common Enhancement 1''' <br> Strength is the basis for survival.

'''Common Enhancement 2''' <br> The Light's power is…warm.

'''Common Enhancement 3''' <br> I like the feeling of getting stronger.

'''Change Appearance 1''' <br> A new look, huh?

'''Change Appearance 2''' <br> Not bad.

'''Change Appearance 3''' <br> This looks nice.

'''Key Enhancement 1''' <br> With strength comes options.

'''Key Enhancement 2''' <br> Recognition from the Light… Not bad.

'''Key Enhancement 3''' <br> '''Hartford''': I feel our bond strengthening, Jaren.

'''Prepared for Battle 1''' <br> What are we waiting for? I'm already starting to look forward to the loot.

'''Prepared for Battle 2''' <br> I've got plenty of reserves—enough to send all our enemies to their graves.

'''Prepared for Battle 3''' <br> My specialty? Engraving tombstones. With bullets.

'''Prepared for Battle 4''' <br> Anybody gonna dig some graves for those sad sacks?

'''Prepared for Battle 5''' <br> Seems my gun's past targets are about to welcome a new neighbor.

'''Prepared for Battle 6''' <br> Each shot's a eulogy.

|title2= Battle
|content2=

'''Overlord Defeated 1''' <br> No more tomorrows for you. Congrats.

'''Overlord Defeated 2''' <br> None of my enemies live long. You're no exception.

'''Overlord Defeated 3''' <br> I'm not a fan of how you're attacking me. Shame you don't have the chance to change it.

'''Overlord Defeated 4''' <br> '''Hartford''': Ample preparations make for a decisive victory.

'''Celebration 1''' <br> Not bad. I can use it.

'''Celebration 2''' <br> The enemy won't know what hit 'em.

'''Celebration 3''' <br> Looks like it was worth it after all.

'''Battle Complete 1''' <br> Over already? Huh. I only just finished warming up.

'''Battle Complete 2''' <br> Today's not your lucky day.

'''Battle Complete 3''' <br> An inevitable result.

'''Elite Defeated 1''' <br> Not bad. These ones make for sturdier targets.

'''Elite Defeated 2''' <br> Barrels barely warm. Let's keep going.

'''Elite Defeated 3''' <br> You asked for this.

'''Boss Encounter 1''' <br> Time's up, partner.

'''Boss Encounter 2''' <br> You aren't long for this world.

'''Boss Encounter 3''' <br> Guess whose name's on these shells.

'''Boss Encounter 4''' <br> It's either kill or be killed. Needless to say, I choose the former.

'''Activity Failure 1''' <br> Not a big fan of failure, but I can accept it.

'''Activity Failure 2''' <br> Failure's like firing a dud. Bound to happen every now and then.

'''Activity Failure 3''' <br> [grunts] I'll make not of what led to this defeat.

'''Activity Failure 4''' <br> '''Hartford''': Want to try that again, partner?

'''Greeting 1''' <br> How you been?

'''Greeting 2''' <br> How's it going?

'''Greeting 3''' <br> Glad you're still kicking.

'''Last Survivor 1''' <br> You didn't get everybody, I'm still here.

'''Last Survivor 2''' <br> Looks like I'll be getting payback for some teammates on top of finishing this job.

'''Last Survivor 3''' <br> Flying solo, just the way I like it.

'''Ask for Help 1''' <br> Help me out.

'''Ask for Help 2''' <br> Hey—give me a hand. You won't regret it.

'''Revived 1''' <br> Thought I'd be stuck lying there till the battle finished. Thanks.

'''Revived 2''' <br> A smart choice.

'''Revived 3''' <br> An unexpected act of kindness. If you need a hired gun, I'll give you a discount.

'''Revived Teammate 1''' <br> Wanna thank me? Then go take out some enemies.

'''Revived Teammate 2''' <br> Don't make this count for nothing.

'''Revived Teammate 3''' <br> Get knocked down like that again and we're going to have words.

'''Sorry 1''' <br> My mistake. I'll take responsibility.

'''Sorry 2''' <br> Sorry. I'll make up for it.

'''Elite Encounter 1''' <br> Let's see how many bullets you can handle.

'''Elite Encounter 2''' <br> This one'll take a little more effort.

'''Elite Encounter 3''' <br> Troublesome. But not too troublesome.

'''Activity Starts 1''' <br> If you find anything odd, no matter what it is, tell me immediately, Hartford.

'''Activity Starts 2''' <br> Any overlooked detail could spell danger.

'''Activity Starts 3''' <br> Don't create an opportunity for the enemy.

'''Activity Starts 4''' <br> Vigilance is the key to survival.

'''Activity Starts 5''' <br> '''Hartford''': No abnormalities spotted. We can press on.

'''Activity Starts 6''' <br> '''Hartford''': There may be enemies nearby. Be cautious.

'''Activity Victory 1''' <br> Commission complete.

'''Activity Victory 2''' <br> Simple with decent pay. Wouldn't mind taking on a few more jobs like that.

'''Activity Victory 3''' <br> An expected victory.

'''Activity Victory 4''' <br> All that matters is ''if'' the task's completed. Not how.

'''Casting Super 1''' <br> These bullets will pay your debt for you.

'''Casting Super 2''' <br> Any last words?

'''Super Charged 1''' <br> Vows is ready.

'''Teammate Down 1''' <br> Looks like we've got a "risk-taker" in the fireteam. Anyone gonna lend a hand?

'''Teammate Down 2''' <br> I don't like seeing allies die. Anyone gonna go help?

'''Teammate Down 3''' <br> Ally down. Can anyone help 'em out?

'''Thanks 1''' <br> Thanks.

'''Thanks 2''' <br> I owe you.

|title3= Activity Ready Interactions
|content3=
{{stub|section=yes}}

'''Interaction with Attal''' <br> '''Attal''': Wow! Such a unique style of clothing… Can I take a picture of you for the kids to use in art class? All you have to do is just stand still! <br> '''Jaren''': 

'''Interaction with Kabr''' <br> '''Jaren''': Are you here to hire me, or…? <br> '''Kabr''': They say you've got a gun made of gold. Is it true? Could I see it?

'''Interaction with Ning Fei''' <br> '''Ning Fei''': An unfamiliar outsider, the perfect target! …Ahem. Hey! Wanna play a round of Shadowshaper Du—Claudia, what are you hitting my head for?! <br> '''Jaren''': Hope you brought enough to wager.

}}

==Diary==
{{Verbatim}}
{{Stub|section=yes}}
===Answers===
===Gun Trial Records===
===Calm===
===Nightmare===
===New Hand Cannon===
===Memo: Request No.37===
===Silence is Golden===
===A Tip===
===Friendship Protection Agreement V2.03===
===Combat Operation—Preparation on Plan===

==Appearance==
*''[[Destiny: Rising]]: [[Season of the Moor]]'' {{1st}}

==Key Words==
<references group="Key Word"/>

==Parameters==
<references group="Parameter"/>

==References==
<references/>

{{Lightbearers/Rising}}
{{Template:Journey}}

[[Category:Humans/Rising]]
[[Category:Characters/Rising]]
[[Category:Lightbearers/Rising]]
[[Category:Playable characters/Rising]]
@@ Line 367: / Line 367: @@
 ==Diary==
 {{Verbatim}}
+{{Stub|section=yes}}
 ===Answers===
-(Aesthetic, vintage, flourished lettering)
-Jaren, you once asked me what I thought about our connection, and I didn't have a response.
-Maybe now, I can give you an answer.
-<nowiki>*</nowiki>P.S.: Read it yourself since I can't imagine telling you in person.
-I didn't know how other Ghosts and Lightbearers bond, but through the numerous journeys we've accompanied each other on, I unwittingly came to think of you as a companion I can trust with all my heart.
-You were extremely confused when you were first resurrected—reticent, alert, and indifferent to everything and everyone, including me. <s>Well, I admit I wasn't a cheerful Ghost either. I still remember how in the beginning, so long as we didn't run into trouble, we'd go a whole week without speaking to each other. It's much better now, though.</s> Apologies, I digress.
-I'm exceptionally content to see you slowly become "gentle" as opposed to confused and ruthless. (I know you won't admit it, but why else would a "profit-oriented," "disadvantage-avoidant," "cold," "heartless" mercenary help mortals find their cats, save their dogs, and take care of their children?)
-To tell the truth, I don't have a preference as to how Lightbearers use their power, but I'm delighted to see that this is how you've chosen to bear the responsibility that comes with wielding the Light.
-I'm glad that I chose you, Jaren.
 ===Gun Trial Records===
-'''Auto Rifle:''' Versatile, but its high rate of fire leads to decreased accuracy. It also makes the body feel cumbersome, putting it at odds with my usual combat style. Suitable as a daily firearm, but not worth spending too much time on modifications and adjustments.
-'''Submachine Gun:''' Versatile with a fair rate of fire. Smaller than an auto rifle, but still a bit bulky. Its most critical problem is its bullet spread. The auto rifle's is tolerable, but not the submachine gun's. If I had to pick between a lighter weight or more accuracy, I'd pick accuracy.
-'''Sidearm:''' More my style better, but not powerful enough to take out an enemy quickly. Perhaps modifications can give it a boost? How much it can be enhanced is extremely limited though, given its structure. The gun's size is perfect, but its firepower? Not so much.
-'''Hand Cannon:''' Highly portable, powerful, and works very well with how I fight. Unfortunately, the hand cannon fires just one shot at a time. That single shot hits hard, though. The sidearm has a high rate of fire, but its power is lacking… It's unfortunate. Would be nice to build on all the hand cannon's current traits and adjust it to fire full auto.
-As for pulse rifles, scout rifles, and light grenade launchers… Those pieces of scrap should have been discontinued, with the resources saved for designing more deadly hand cannons.
 ===Calm===
-I came to the Red Sea Rift to draw an end to my path of vengeance.
-The scenery here reminds me of when I first set off on this journey—same bright sun, same burning sand.
-Hartford said that I was full of anger back then. Was I? I have no idea. Those days are hazy memories. It's as if I was locked in a prison built of remorse and resentment—cold, hard, and gray.
-I should've known… Maln was a profiteer, after all. He and Marco were bound to have a clash of interests and ideals. I thought the worst that could happen was that he'd part ways with us, but I'd never imagined that he'd kill Marco's Ghost himself.
 ===Nightmare===
-"Jaren," Marco said with a smile, "See you later."
-Dreamed about that parting again.
-I still didn't reply—just nodded and turned away.
-I've had this dream a lot ever since Marco died, but it's only ever been that moment.
-This time, though, I recalled more.
-Maybe those distant memories that were swept away by time are becoming clear again as I get closer to avenging him.
-It was Marco and Maln who picked me up when I was first revived. They introduced this strange world to the muddled, confused me. We traveled the wastes, completing odd jobs to get supplies, until one fateful request…
-We were hired to protect a village from some Warlords. The pay was meager, but Marco accepted. It was for the common folk just struggling to survive, after all. That was fine by me, but as for Maln, the rival Warlords bought him off with some fine weapons.
-Maln promised not to intervene in the battle between the village and the warlords, but his neutrality still tipped the scales. While I had no intention of getting into this mess, Marco insisted on protecting the village. "Weakness is no justification to stomp on them like ants," he said.
-I didn't get it. It was a dog-eat-dog world, wasn't it?
-"The world didn't gift them the privilege of choice." Marco looked down and fiddled with his gun. "But me? I've got power, and I want to use that power to give them their choice. Besides, I've already accepted the job, and I'm not one to break my vows."
-That was his gun's name—"Vows." Though I still didn't quite understand it, I respected his decision.
-"Don't worry. We Lightbearers don't die so easily."
-He convinced me, and I left after we'd agreed on a future meeting place. But…
-I can accept him giving his life for his ideals, but he shouldn't have died to one of his own. In the end, it was Maln—gunning for even more supplies and weapons—who took Marco out. Even shattered his Ghost with his own two hands.
-I won't accept that as his ending.
-That parting with Marco became a nightmare that plagued me, and the name Maln, the cure.
-Soon enough, I'll be cured.
 ===New Hand Cannon===
-Today, I had an auto hand cannon custom-made with the Radiancite I got from Bobak (I honestly didn't expect him to care so much about me saving his uncles). Had to supply most of the ore myself, though—that little bit he had didn't go very far.
-I remember thinking he could be on good terms with both me and Maln initially. He couldn't have been more wrong. It's not his fault, though. I'd planned on Maln finding out anyway since he'd never show his face around me if he didn't think he was at an absolute advantage.
-I didn't think this whole thing would put so much pressure on Bobak, though—especially after I save them.
-And when he insisted I take the ore… Well, the way his face shriveled up as he cried was unexpectedly heartwarming, even if he got snot bubbles all over me… Never mind. I'll forgive him this time, seeing as he inspired the name of my new gun.
-He said what I told him when I went to meet Maln was "pretty cool" and suggested I name my new gun after that.
-'''"It's time to hear his last words."'''
-Not a bad idea, I'll give him that. Here's hoping Tex Mechanica brings this hand cannon to life.
 ===Memo: Request No.37===
-'''Request:''' Track the target and bring it to the client (Note: Non-injurious coercion may be used if the target resists)
-'''Target's Age:''' 6 years old
-'''Target's Personality:''' Curious, innocent, lively, wary of strangers (Note: Snacks and toys can be used to ease the target's vigilance)
-'''Target's Characteristics:''' Pointed ears, round eyes, brown tiger spots, white chest, pink nose, three pink and one brown paw pads (Note: Mixed colors)
-'''Target's Possible Locations:''' Children's gatherings, lush vegetation, places, places birds flock to (Note: Target is playful), places that smell of food (Note: Target is gluttonous)
-'''Solution:''' Tie feathers to Harford to disguise his as a bird and lure the target to grab him. Alternatively, tie a few pieces of meat to Hartford to disguise him as food and lure the target to pounce. Harford refused to cooperate. Looks like we'll need to improvise. (Bring the disguises in case he changes his mind later? )
-(Newer handwriting)
-Harford is very stubborn and unlikely to budge on this.
 ===Silence is Golden===
-I truly cannot fathom how some people can drone on and on. Personally, I'd rather spend ten times as long finishing those fights alone.
-Hartford occasionally encourages me to make some friends, saying that it's not good for me to be too much of a loner (hah, not like he has many friends himself). But what's wrong with being alone? You don't have to take into account your companion's thoughts, you don't have to carry the burden of their emotions, you don't have to be responsible for their well-being, and you don't have to worry about their sudden betrayal, either.
-Everyone has their price. A meal, a piece of clothing, a weapon, something that can be put on the other side of the scale—and you never know when you'll be your companion's price. In that case, it's better not to give them the opportunity to sneak you onto that scale.
-Besides, I'm actually content with just having Harford as my partner. He's calm, cool, and I can appreciate his restrained sense of humor. Why should I go find myself a ticking time bomb when I've got him?
-Speaking of Harford, I once heard a theory advocating complementarity—"opposites attract" and stay together longer, or something to that effect. If that were true and Harford or I… Well, I can't even imagine what a talkative Harford would be like. But if he were, I'd rather he leave me dead.
-Although I get along well with Hartford, to my dismay, it seems like going forward I'll have no choice but to join other Lightbearers on certain missions.
-I can only pray that they aren't chatterboxes.
 ===A Tip===
-I accepted three more requests to deal with alien looters this week. If I don't get any new jobs tomorrow, I'll be able to get to work on them.
-I still prefer these kinds of requests over escort missions or rescues—no need for careful, detailed plans, just aiming and firing for the most part. Talking with the client after completing their request is annoying. They're too grateful, as if I'm helping them out of the goodness of my heart. Have they forgotten that this is a mere trade? My actions aren't selfless. I wouldn't even bother with those alien looters if I wasn't getting paid.
-Some time ago, I took care of a Cabal camp that was stationed near a town, as the pay was quite generous. When I headed back to tell them the deed was done, the townsfolk swarmed me. They looked so crazy, for a moment I thought they meant to kill me—turns out they just wanted to thank me.
-Talk about a handsome payday.
-It was just business.
-But I couldn't say that in front of those kids that rushed over with them—not when they looked so happy. Hartford encouraged them to send me flowers as a token of their appreciation, and surprisingly, the kids complied.
-I'll accept the flowers as a tip.
-…Fine, I'll throw in some extra threat elimination services next time, free of charge.
 ===Friendship Protection Agreement V2.03===
-(Aesthetic, vintage, flourished lettering)
-I have received much negative feedback from other Ghosts regarding Jaren being too unforgiving when sparring with other Lightbearers, which has seriously affected the friendship between myself and my fellow Ghosts.
-After several negotiations, Hartford the Ghost and Jaren the Lightbearer hereby certify the following Letter of Guarantee.
-<s>1. Jaren the Lightbearer may not kill any opponent while sparring.</s><br>
-<s>1. Jaren the Lightbearer shall try not to kill any opponent while sparring.</s><br>
-. Jaren the Lightbearer shall conclude sparring with other Lightbearers on friendly terms, '''without excess harm'''.
-<s>2. Jaren the Lightbearer shall ensure that he does not defeat the same Lightbearer twice or more while sparring.</s><br>
-.Jaren the Lightbearer shall ensure that he does not unreservedly deal a fatal blow against other Lightbearers every time while sparring just because they can be resurrected by their Ghosts.
-. Jaren the Lightbearer shall avoid mocking a Lightbearer whom he has defeated while sparring—even if it was "meant to be playful"—unless said Lightbearer makes impertinent remarks first.
-.1. Clause 3 also applies to limb movements and hand gestures.
-.2. Clause 3 also applies to facial expressions and any onomatopoeia that does not have a specific meaning.
-.3. That includes whistling!
-. Jaren the Lightbearer shall try to maintain the friendship between Hartford the Ghost and other Ghosts '''(including, but not limited to, normal social situations such as sparring with other Lightbearers, chats, trades, non-principled arguments, et cetera).'''
-'''* This Letter of Guarantee is effective indefinitely.'''
-'''Guarantor:'''
-(Newer writing)
-Jaren, do not forget to sign the guarantee!
 ===Combat Operation—Preparation on Plan===
-'''Environment:''' Confirm the terrain, landforms, and spatial characteristics of the target location. Prepare for possible traps, and check for hidden doors and passages in suspicious places.
-'''Enemies:''' Observe their usual weapons and elemental attributes, and draw up a plan to counteract any unfavorable conditions.
-'''Other:''' Confirm the relationship between nearby human settlements and the target location, and formulate a detailed response plan based on it (Friendly: Maintain distance, tempt with promise of gains. Hostile: Clarify the advantages and disadvantages of the operation and confirm recent combat plans of both parties to avoid chaos. Neutral: Mainly coercion, in case they plan to hijack the operation).
-'''Personal Status:''' Check guns and ensure sufficient ammo supply. Make good use of the enemies reserves to avoid running out during combat (do not spare any enemy who may be carrying significant amounts of ammo).
-'''Ghost's Status:''' Hartford must decide resurrection timing when up against strong enemies, ensuring that hostiles have let down their guard down or left the area. Ensure that there are no nearby means of attack that can be used against him. Creating distractions is an option if enemies insist on guarding my remains. If there is a hostile third party nearby, Hartford may lure them into the battle and complicate the situation, creating more favorable conditions for revival.
-'''Key Point:''' Hartford's well-being is the highest priority (no parallels). Hartford may depart the battlefield first if a safe resurrection opportunity cannot be found in the short term, leaving the situation to change over a long period of time (a month, a year, or even longer) until revival is possible (this must be confirmed with Hartford prior to each battle).
 ==Appearance==