Editing Umeko/Rising

{{Notice/Rising}}
{{Character infobox
|variant= Awoken
|name=Umeko
|image=[[File:Umeko MIND.jpg|300px]]
|othernames=The Kunoichi
|species=[[Human/Rising|Human]]
|race=[[Awoken/Rising|Awoken]]
|gender=Female
|eyes=Blue
|hair=Black
|affiliation=[[Reef/Rising|Reef]] {{c|formerly}} <br>[[Whisperers/Rising|Whisperers]]
|class=[[Lightbearer/Rising|Lightbearer]] {{C|{{Icon/Rising|Void}} Void}}
|rank=
|notable=
}}
{{Quote|She chooses to place her trust not in humans and fellow Lightbearers, but in Ghosts.}}
'''Umeko''' is a Lightbearer risen by [[Kara/Rising|Kara]]. She is a playable character in ''[[Destiny: Rising]]'', and first introduced in ''[[Season of Daybreak]]''.

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

==Gameplay==
{{Relic infobox
|name=Ayakiba
|image= [[File:Ayakiba.png|300px]]
|othernames=
|manufacturer=
|style=
|element= {{Icon/Rising|Void}} Void
|core= Healing<ref name="Healing" group="Key Word">'''[Healing]''': Restores allies' health.</ref> <br> Ally Vulnerability<ref name="Ally Vulnerability" group="Key Word">'''[Ally Vulnerability]''': Renders combatants vulnerable, amplifying damage dealt to them. - This effect also applies to allies' damage.</ref> <br> Confinement<ref name="Confinement" group="Key Word">'''[Confinement]''': Renders combatants Immobile.</ref> <br> Invisibility<ref name="Invisibility" group="Key Word">'''[Invisibility]''': Makes themselves invisible.</ref> <br> Mobility<ref name="Mobility" group="Key Word">'''[Mobility]''': Can swiftly move across the battlefield.</ref>
|service= 
|affiliation=
}}
===Overview===
;Traits
*'''Legendary'''
*'''[[Void/Rising|Void]]'''
*'''Support'''
*'''Long Range Combat'''

;Weapons
*[[Scout Rifle/Rising|Scout Rifle]]
*[[Sniper Rifle/Rising|Sniper Rifle]]

===Relic Abilities===
;Passive
*'''Shadows Absorbed'''
When Umeko deals weapon or Weapon Mastery damage, she absorbs '''Shadow Energy''' based on the damage dealt, efficiency is increased when using a '''Scout Rifle'''. When combatants inflicted with '''Shadow's Curse'''<ref name="Shadow's Curse" group="Key Word">'''[Shadow's Curse]''': Combatants take increased damage from the fire team equal to '''5.62%'''<small>'''[Variable]'''</small> '''x the number of stacks of Shadow's Curse'''. - The maximum number of stacks '''Shadow Shuriken''' can apply is increased to '''3''', and the maximum number of stacks '''Singularity Shuriken''' can apply is increased to '''4'''. - When Shadow's Curse reaches '''2''' stack or more, affected combatants are slowed by '''50%'''. When it reaches '''3''' stacks or more, affected combatants will be '''confined'''. '''[Variable]''': This value is affected by '''[Vulnerability Bonus]''' - This effect scales with '''Shadow Shuriken''''s level.</ref> are defeated, Umeko will absorb an additional '''15''' Shadow Energy.

When '''Shadow Energy''' reaches the max of '''100''' and '''Shadow Shuriken''' charges aren't full, Umeko will consume all Shadow Energy to gain '''1''' charge of '''Shadow Shuriken'''.

When in the '''Voidstep'''<ref name="Voidstep" group="Key Word">'''[Voidstep]''': Umeko instantly gains '''Invisibility''' and gains '''40% Acceleration''' as well as increased weapon reload speed for the effect's duration. - Using weapons or abilities removes the '''Invisibility''' effect. If Umeko hasn't used weapons or abilities for '''1'''s, she will regain '''Invisibility'''.</ref> state, Umeko will absorb Shadow Energy with '''25%''' greater efficiency. When Shadow Energy overflows, a portion of it will be converted into recharge for '''Voidstep'''<ref name="Voidstep" group="Key Word"/>, up to '''25%''' per instance.

;Signatures
*'''Shadow Shuriken''' 18.0s
'''Ally Vulnerability'''<ref name="Ally Vulnerability" group="Key Word"/> '''Confinement'''<ref name="Confinement" group="Key Word"/>

Umeko throws her shuriken, inflicting '''Shadow's Curse'''<ref name="Shadow's Curse" group="Key Word"/> and dealing Void damage. Combatants inflicted with '''3''' or more stacks of '''Shadow's Curse'''<ref name="Shadow's Curse" group="Key Word"/> take an additional instance of damage.

Umeko throws her shuriken up to '''70'''m forward, overpenetrating and slicing combatants within a '''2'''-meter radius.

Hit combatants are inflicted with '''1''' stack of '''Shadow's Curse'''<ref name="Shadow's Curse" group="Key Word"/> for '''8'''s and take '''400'''<ref name="SkillSigVoidShadow" group="Parameter">This value is affected by '''[Skill Strength][Signature Boost][Void Boost]''' - This damage scales with '''Shadow Shuriken''''s level.</ref> Void damage.

When Shadow Shuriken deals damage to a combatant with at least '''3''' stack of '''Shadow's Curse'''<ref name="Shadow's Curse" group="Key Word"/>, it also deals '''400'''<ref name="SkillSigVoidShadow" group="Parameter"/> Void damage to all other targets inflicted with '''Shadow Curse'''<ref name="Shadow's Curse" group="Key Word"/> within a '''20'''-meter radius.

If the shuriken hits terrain or other objects, it will ricochet up to '''1''' time, but its max flight distance will remain unchanged.

Starts with 3 charges.

*'''Voidstep''' 12.0s
'''Healing'''<ref name="Healing" group="Key Word"/> '''Invisibility'''<ref name="Invisibility" group="Key Word"/> '''Mobility'''<ref name="Mobility" group="Key Word"/>

Umeko dashes forward '''8'''m, becoming '''Voidstep'''<ref name="Voidstep" group="Key Word"/> and activating a '''Void Healing''' with a '''10'''-meter radius that follows her for '''6'''s.

When Umeko is in the array, she gains '''Void Healing''', restoring '''108'''<ref name="HealingVoidstep" group="Parameter">This value is affected by '''[Healing Enhancement]''' - This effect scales with '''Voidstep''''s level.</ref> health per second. Allies who touch the array will also gain '''Void Healing''', but they recover '''30%''' of what Umeko herself recovers. '''Void Healing''' lasts for as long as the array does. While the array is active, dealing damage or being in '''Voidstep'''<ref name="Voidstep" group="Key Word"/> Invisibility sate stores energy to increase '''Void Healing''''s healing efficiency up to a maximum of '''600%'''.

Entering the '''Voidstep'''<ref name="Voidstep" group="Key Word"/> state randomly generates '''1 Tangled Void'''<ref name="Tangled Void" group="Key Word">'''[Tangled Void]''': Weapon hits can break Tangled Void, causing afflicted targets to take precision damage. - Breaking Tangled Void instantly increases the healing efficiency of Umeko's own '''Void Healing''' to its maximum and makes her invisible. '''Shadow Shuriken''' hits can also break Tangled Void.</ref> on the weak spots of '''1''' random combatant within attack range (prioritizing those within Umeko's line of sight) for '''2'''s.

;Super
*'''Singularity Shuriken''' 120.0s
'''Ally Vulnerability'''<ref name="Ally Vulnerability" group="Key Word"/> '''Confinement'''<ref name="Confinement" group="Key Word"/>

Umeko throws her Super-enhanced shuriken, inflicting '''4''' stacks of '''Shadow's Curse'''<ref name="Shadow's Curse" group="Key Word"/> at once and dealing Void damage. The shuriken will also slice through space itself, creating a brief singularity that deals Void damage pulls in combatants.

Umeko throws a Super-enhanced shuriken up to '''70'''m forward.

The enhanced shuriken will overpenetrate and slash combatants within '''4'''-meter radius, dealing '''2000'''<ref name="SkillSuperVoidSingularity" group="Parameter">This value is affected by '''[Skill Strength][Super Boost][Void Boost]''' - This damage scales with '''Singularity Shurken'''s level.</ref> Void damage and inflicting '''4''' stack of '''Shadow's Curse'''<ref name="Shadow's Curse" group="Key Word"/> at once, lasting '''15'''s.

When the shuriken is mid-flight, it will tear through space itself, pulling in combatants within a '''4'''-meter radius after a brief delay and dealing '''7999'''<ref name="SkillSuperVoidSingularity" group="Parameter"/> Void damage. This damage increases '''10%''' for '''per''' combatant hit, for a maximum increase of '''50%'''.

If the shuriken hits terrain or other objects, it will ricochet '''1''' time but its max flight distance will remain unchanged.

;Relic Traits
*'''Unrelenting Malice''': When '''Shadow Shuriken''' hits '''2''' combatant, Umeko will absorb '''5''' Shadow Energy. When it hits '''3''' combatants or more, she will absorb an additional '''5''' Shadow Energy.

*'''Void Crosser''': When an ally comes in to contact with the '''Void Healing''' array, they will gain '''Voidstep'''<ref name="Voidstep" group="Key Word"/> until the aura expires.

*'''Soul Salvation''': When elite or stronger combatants are defeated while inflicted with Umeko's own '''Shadow's Curse'''<ref name="Shadow's Curse" group="Key Word"/>, they will generate '''1 Redeeming Light'''<ref name="Redeeming Light" group="Key Word">'''[Redeeming Light]''': Tracks the ally with the lowest health within a '''70'''-meter radius. - Heals for '''52''' health per second on hit over '''3''' seconds. - This healing effect is stackable.</ref>.

;Weapon Mastery
*'''Weakness Perceived'''
:*'''LV.1''': When Umeko's shots hit combatants weakened by her own '''Shadow's Curse'''<ref name="Shadow's Curse" group="Key Word"/>, they deal an additional instance of Void damage equal to '''15%''' of the shot's damage.

:*'''LV.2''': The additional Void damage from '''Weakness Perceived''' is increased to '''22%'''.

:*'''LV.3''': The additional Void damage from '''Weakness Perceived''' is increased to '''30%'''.

:*'''LV.4''': When a combatant's '''Shadow's Curse'''<ref name="Shadow's Curse" group="Key Word"/> stacks reach '''3''' or more, a '''Spite Entanglement'''<ref name="Spite Entanglement" group="Key Word">'''[Spite Entanglement]''': Weapon hits can break Spite Entanglement and deal precision damage to affected targets. Breaking Spite Entanglement also deals Void damage to all combatants with '''Shadow's Curse''' within a '''20'''-meter radius, equal to '''20% x weapon hit damage'''.</ref> will be generated on their weak spot and last until '''Shadow's Curse'''<ref name="Shadow's Curse" group="Key Word"/> expires.

:*'''LV.5''': The additional Void damage from '''Weakness Perceived''' is increased to '''40%'''.

===Talent Tree===
*'''Accompanying Shadow''': '''Voidstep'''<ref name="Voidstep" group="Key Word"/> gains a second-tier effect: Using it to dash again within '''6'''s grants Umeko '''invisibility''' and restores '''311'''<ref name="HealingVoidstep" group="Parameter"/> health.

*'''Spreading Shadow''': Upon inflicting '''3''' stack of '''Shadow's Curse'''<ref name="Shadow's Curse" group="Key Word"/> or more, Umeko's next shot will deal '''50%''' additional damage and inflict the nearest target within a '''20'''-meter radius with '''1''' stack of '''Shadow's Curse'''<ref name="Shadow's Curse" group="Key Word"/> for '''8'''s.

*'''Rebounding Shuriken''': '''Shadow Shuriken''' can now ricochet up to '''2''' times, and all of its damage dealt is increased by '''50%'''.

*'''Spatial Striker''': Increases '''Singularity Shuriken''''s direct damage and singularity damage by '''25%''' each.

*'''Soul Rip''': '''Soul Salvation''' now generates '''2''' '''Redeeming Light'''<ref name="Redeeming Light" group="Key Word"/>, and the healing effect is increased by '''100%'''.

*'''Gaze into the Abyss''': Umeko's next '''Shadow Shuriken''' will be enhanced once every '''60'''s, increasing its radius by '''100%''', letting it inflict '''3''' stacks of '''Shadow's Curse'''<ref name="Shadow's Curse" group="Key Word"/> at once for '''8'''s, and granting it a vertical pull effect.

==Files==
{{Verbatim}}
===Ayakiba===
{{Quote|Hidden, lurking… Beware the shadows—a huntress from the void approaches.}}

====Hidden in Mists====
Ayakiba was discovered in a pre-Golden Age tomb nestled deep within a mountain range rendered unreachable due to a thick fog.

Any who entered the mists would be unable to see and find their way. But Umeko, as an Awoken with heightened senses, was still able to rely on her intuition and Light to reach the deepest recesses of the tomb, where she claimed her Relic.

====Whisperer Tech====
Integrating Umeko's Awoken constitution with remnants of Golden Age tech, the Whisperers were able to modify her Relic, adding a healing module that would help ensure her survivability in more deadly circumstances.

===Umeko===
{{Quote|She chooses to place her trust not in humans and fellow Lightbearers, but in Ghosts.}}
====File 1====
Name: Umeko

Race: Awoken

Revival Location: East Asia

Ghost: Kara

Relic: Ayakiba

In her past life, Umeko was an Awoken who left the Reef for Earth. She died when her ship was attacked entering Earth's orbit and crashed into the sea off the coast of East Asia. Her Ghost, Kara, revived her on the Japanese island of Shikoku.

For twenty years after her resurrection, she remained on the island and lived a simple life in the countryside. But the Fallen, Warlords, and other roving bandits would put an end to this peace. Time and time again, she would be forced to embark on a journey to find a new home.

====File 2====
As time went on, Umeko discovered that alone, she had little chance of living a quiet life in such a chaotic world. The Warlords were focused only on plundering resources and fighting each other for power. The power the Light had granted Lightbearers gave them reckless confidence—something Umeko could not put an end to.

Seeing her Lightbearer troubled by this, Kara introduced her to an organization known as the Whisperers. She revealed herself to be a member and elaborated on their ideals.

It was an organization founded and led by Ghosts hoping to guide a group of the most powerful, most just, and most elite Lightbearers. Together, they would return Earth to a path of righteousness and create an ideal and orderly world.

This concept drew Umeko in, and with Kara's guidance, she joined the Whisperers' ranks.

====File 3====
<nowiki>*</nowiki>The Whisperers' Tenets*

1. Ghosts are not Lightbearer appendages. Ghosts are to be protected. Ghosts' thoughts are to be respected.

2. Ghosts choose and guide their Lightbearers. If a Ghost deems their Lightbearer unqualified, then they are obligated to oppose and restrain their Lightbearer.

3. With the Light as their witness, Ghosts are to make morally just decisions and correct judgments.

…

27. All Lightbearers are chosen by the Light. As such, Ghosts shall treat them with patience and provide proper guidance. If a Lightbearer insists on abusing their Light and using it for evil, then their Ghost has a duty to ensure said Lightbearer's eternal slumber.

===Kara===
A resolute and opinionated Ghost who has led a colorful life. She maintains a shocking level of calm and excellent judgment even in the most dangerous of circumstances.

==Diary==
{{verbatim}}
===The Whisperers===
Tomorrow, I will swear my oath before the Ghosts and become a member of the Whisperers.

I can't say for certain whether this is the only correct path, but it's clearly far better than the other choices before me. At the very least, Kara—my closest and only companion—chose them long ago. We've never diverged on values, and that isn't bound to change. Perhaps I was destined to walk this path from the moment Kara resurrected me.

All of my prior attempts at living a peaceful life ended in failure.

Whether it was finding a village and settling down, or building a sanctuary with my own two hands, or joining up with some Warlord… Invasions and murder are like maggots on decaying corpses, crawling all over this fetid world. And I'm powerless to stop them.

Kara has never discouraged me, nor has she ever laughed at my failures. She just stays by my side, always calm and composed. She's rarely expressed her own thoughts on matters, and I'd always thought that was simply her personality. But when reality proved to me that the life I wanted would never be attained through my efforts alone, I realized the neutral silence she'd maintained was meant to avoid influencing me too much.

All I want is a quiet life, free of disturbances. A simple wish, really. But attaining it feels far more difficult than "becoming a tyrant," something that should be out of reach… Truth be told, I find those reckless Warlords more despicable than the aliens. Clearly, they could use the Light's gift to make the world a better place, yet their lust for power reduced them to accomplices for evil.

When all my attempts had ended in failure, Kara offered me what is, at present, the best answer: the Whisperers.

An organization founded and led by Ghosts. An organization that works to guide Lightbearers to use wield their Light for good. An organization that endeavors to reestablish world order by uniting and cultivating Lightbearers who are good, strong, and fair. An organization formed of Ghosts, who lack actual power but are also free of worldly desires, governing Lightbearers, wielders of immense strength.

Hmph… If power and immortality stole the kind, orderly side of the Warlord's humanity, then let me bring restraint and eternal slumber to their sides.
==="Enforcer" Exam Performance Report===
''[A sheet of paper, seemingly printed many years ago.]''

Umeko, on behalf of all Ghosts of the Whispers, we would like to congratulate you on passing your exam and becoming one of the Whisperers' core members. Very few operatives are even able to start the trial, for that means you have earned the recognition of every single Ghost among our ranks.

We know full well that trust is priceless, and we're sure you agree.

Thus, we are delighted to have you truly stand with us as we turn our gaze towards a shared future.

<nowiki>*</nowiki>Your compensation and benefits will be upgraded from those of an Operative to those of an Enforcer. Please see the statement attached to the back of this performance report for further details.

—The Council of Twelve


Solo Combat Capabilities

[Outstanding]

When it comes to solo combat, Umeko has always been an Enforcer in all but name. I have nothing more to say here. —Whitebeard

Agreed. —Moshui

Agreed. —Sootsy

Agreed. —Sagittarius

Umeko's amazing! —Cocoa

Management of Heavy ammunition needs more work. Additionally, there was an obvious mistake at 07:35 in the second phase, and performance could have been better at 08:13 (also second phase) and 03:02 (third phase). Remember to train on your own once you review your performance report. —Kara

I think you're being a little too hard on her, Kara… Also—Moshui, Sootsy, Sagittarius! You three could stand to be a little less perfunctory, you know. —Wheat


Cooperative Combat Capabilities

[Average]

The strength of Umeko's attacks is inversely proportional to her ability to cooperate with teammates. But given her preference for solo missions, I don't see any issue with this. —Whitebeard

Agreed. —Moshui

Agreed. —Sootsy

Agreed. —Sagittarius

Umeko's the coolest! —Cocoa

Teamwork is indeed an obvious weakness. I'll submit a request to analyze whether Ayakiba can be modified to enhance her capabilities in cooperative combat. —Kara

You really are something, Kara… And knock it off, you three! —Wheat


Improvisation

[Good]

Rather strong adaptability, but becomes somewhat flustered under extreme circumstances. I look forward to seeing your growth. —Whitebeard

Agreed. —Moshui

Don't think I can't see what you're saying just because you wrote your comment last. That means you, Wheat! Surely you don't think your comment was something insightful. —Sootsy

Don't think I can't see what you're saying just because you wrote your comment last. That means you, Wheat! Surely you don't think your comment was something insightful. —Sagittarius

Umeko really is a quick-witted Lightbearer! I'm so jealous of you, Kara! Unlike Lor… His Light's not exactly shining the brightest, if you ask me. —Cocoa

Umeko's performance in a scenario that calls for attacking as a group was rather stiff. This appears to be a long-term effect caused by the events of "Operation: Albatross." Desensitization training for similar situations is necessary. —Kara

Uh, Kara… Umeko's already an excellent agent. I don't want you to push her too hard. Everyone has their strengths and weaknesses, after all. As for you, Sootsy! Just you wait until our next meeting! And Sagittarius, could you stop copying and pasting comments? —Wheat


Acting Skills

[Average]

I don't want to say it, but your crying makes me want to laugh Umeko… Please continue practicing. I will add that other than crying, your acting skills are all great—especially when you were pretending to be weak to gain others' trust. —Whitebeard

Haha. —Moshui

You think I'm afraid of you, Wheat? You can't even find yourself a Lightbearer! —Sootsy

Uh… I won't copy the bit about physical attacks. You two fight amongst yourselves. —Sagittarius

Umeko the Chameleon! LOVE IT! —Cocoa

That sobbing was beyond fake… But it can't be helped. All we can do is avoid it as much as possible. If a situation calls for crying, use anger, floundering, or silence as a replacement, if appropriate. —Kara

I'm glad to see you're finally not playing the role of overly strict parent, Kara. And you! SOOTSY! Just you wait! Mark my words, I'll find a partner capable of smashing you and your Lightbearer to bits! —Wheat
==="Operation: Albatross" Mission Report===
[A sheet of paper, seemingly printed many years ago.]

Based on her obsession with the shelter, Agent Umeko submitted an application to HQ to establish a base where she was resurrected. HQ approved the mission and dubbed it "Operation: Albatross." Due to the accidental exposure of the Whisperers' nature, the base was destroyed, and "Operation: Albatross" ended in failure.

The detailed repot for this mission are as follows.

We have selected a site for the base. The building material application process will start once HQ has granted approval.

…

The base's basic buildings are yet to be completed, but refugees fleeing from Warlords have already arrived.

…

The base's civilian population has exceeded 100; it has successfully passed the initial founding stage. Next, we will gradually establish a production line to reduce dependence on external materials.

…

With its growing reputation and a significant increase in the number of refugees seeking safe harbor, the base will soon enter a golden period of development.

…

Someone intentionally set fire to the base's granary today. However, it was discovered immediately, and losses were minimized. We've confirmed the arsonist to be a mole. Three rounds of covert screening will be conducted on civilians within the base, and patrols in key areas will be strengthened.

…

Recently, rumors such as "Ghosts are raising human livestock" have been circulating the base. We are currently investigating the source of this rumor. The rumor has spread extremely fast and incited unrest among the civilians. We are almost certain the culprit is a Warlord, though we suspect this may be the work of several collaborating Warlords.

Additionally, based on current public opinion, we have submitted an application to disclose some information regarding the Whisperers to civilians within the base, alleviate their fear, and determine whether people can accept the Whisperers' style of organization under comfortable living conditions. *The information to be revealed is: 1 Ghosts are the primary decision-makers;2 Ghosts do not want to rule humans, but rather establish an orderly shelter to protect those in need.

…

As per the application's approval, the information to be revealed will be changed to the following: 1Ghosts and Lightbearers jointly decide how the base develops;2 Ghosts hope to live in an orderly, stable shelter.

…

Following the announcement, the riots within the base ceased for half a day, then grew even more uncontrollable. The rumor has escalated to, "The Ghosts have brainwashed the Lightbearers and are manipulating them. They want to use the controlled Lightbearers to encroach on mortal humans' lands." Civilians have begun to strike, march, and protest, and they are analyzing all the base's past decisions based on current conspiracy theories.

The base will make every effort to resolve the crisis through peaceful means.

…

Spies provoked the civilians into joining hands with the Warlords both internally and externally. In the end, their combined forces destroyed the base.

Agent Umeko's identity was exposed during the incident. Thus, in the interest of her safety and freedom to act during future missions, she has voluntarily requested to cover her face with a mask, and vows not to remove it unless absolutely necessary.

…

— Report written by: Kara


[A line of small characters that gradually become more illegible.]

I thought I'd only be facing aliens and Warlords. I never expected the very people I'd tried to protect would…
==="Operation: Viper" Mission Report===
''[A sheet of paper that was printed out very recently.]''

To address Lor's betrayal of the Whisperers as well as its associated consequences, the Council of Twelve dispatched Enforcer Umeko to handle this case. Utilizing her outstanding adaptability and acting skills, she successfully retrieved the stolen member list in "Operation: Viper."

Mission details are as follows.


It all started with that cowardly, despicable agent Lor. Tempted by promises from Warlords, he cruelly imprisoned his poor, dutiful Ghost Cocoa, then stole a list of the Whisperers' members. Through his actions, he announced his betrayal.

I've never seen such heinousness! That list included all of our undercover Ghosts and Lightbearers. For that scoundrel to do such a thing… I can't believe I was so blind… And for all these years, I've hidden what I've had to deal with, all to save HIS face! He's foolish, arrogant, suspicious, testy… And to top it all off, he has poor hygiene! I could just imagine how conversations with other Ghosts would go… They'd all say, "Poor Cocoa! You deserve a better Lightbearer!"

Ugh… Now, though I've finally faced reality. He wasn't that innocent, passionate, kindhearted boy I revived, and he hadn't been for a long time. Thinking back on it, Lor probably got led astray by those Warlords' lackeys when he was undercover on M-C330745! I'd attributed his increasingly indifferent attitude and negativity towards the Whisperers were due to him entering a rebellious period. Who would've thought… Anyway, if any of you are assigned on covert missions, keep a close eye on your Lightbearer, and watch out for any displays of corruption or changes in attitude, so you don't end up like me… Fortunately, Kara and Umeko handled this issue flawlessly. I can't even imagine what would've happened if they hadn't!

…

Umeko's professional, reliable performance in handling this list incident is something all Lightbearers could learn from! I'd highly recommend turning it into a case study! Professional abilities aside, Umeko's personality is also the best of the best! She treats us with such patience and kindness, and she even brings us gifts when she leaves for far-away missions! Whether I share my joys with her or tell her about my troubles, she always listens attentively and gives me all the responses I need. All Lightbearers could learn a thing or two from her!

Also… Given that Lor's a lost cause (in every sense of the word, now), can I apply to train a new Lightbearer? Like a Ghost co-pilot! I don't want just any Lightbearer, though. I'll only accept one as good as Umeko! (Or one 3/4 as good. The lowest I'll go is 1/2.)

—Report written by: Cocoa


[A line of small characters, written with brush and ink.]

Only Cocoa could possibly write such a report. UuU
==="W-00119" Mission Report===
[A printed sheet of paper that looks neither new nor old.]

Thanks to the early deployment of the "Black Cotton" squad, we were able to lay the groundwork necessary to eradicate the Warlord Mosok. The Council of Twelve dispatched Enforcer Umeko for this decapitation strike. Despite her headstrong nature and unwillingness to cooperate with the original plan, with Black Cotton's full cooperation, she carried out the mission successfully and without incident, rescuing an additional 314 civilians in the process.

Mission details are as follows.

\…

Enforcer Umeko was supposed to quickly execute the established combat plan after meeting with our team. However, due to her refusal to use more powerful weaponry and her insistence on assassinating Mosok in a solo infiltration, the operation was temporarily deadlocked.

Our team believed the solo combat plan Umeko proposed to be far too risky, with both the possibility of operational failure and irreversibly heightened risk. We insisted on adhering to the original plan: detonating all ammunition Mosok received in his new weapons shipment, inflicting the maximum amount of damage to both the target and his Ghost, then initiating further battles based on the situation.

But Umeko, in the absence of successful communication between the two parties, used her position as the plan's executor to forcibly change strategies, ignoring the favorable opening that our team had worked hard to create. With great patience, we tried to persuade Umeko up until the very end, but she initiated her infiltration anyway, forcing our team to compromise.

…

Once the mission concluded, the Black Cotton squad should have returned to HQ directly to report, but due to Umeko demanding we rescue the civilians, our report was delayed by 18 days.Umeko's refusal to cooperate caused great trouble for our squad throughout this operation. If every Enforcer is like her, what use is the preliminary work done by covert teams such as ours? Do we not deserve respect? Does our hard work count for nothing?

On behalf of all Ghosts and Lightbearers in our squad, I am hereby formally filing sixteen complaints against Enforcer Umeko and her Ghost, including "extremely uncooperative," "amplification of mission failure risk," "last-minute change of plans," "increased burden on our squad's retreat," "ignoring our squad's previous achievements," "harsh and disrespectful language," etc. (see appendix for details).

In light of the immense psychological harm her actions have caused to all of our Ghost and Lightbearer members, the Black Cotton squad has decided to go on strike and protest until she receives the appropriate punishment!

— Report written by: Supervising Ghost, Black Cotton Squad


[A line of small characters, written with brush and ink.]

They drag their feet when it comes to rescuing civilians, but they sure are speedy when it comes to typing up reports. They didn't even check my mission failure rate before submitting their complaints.

Nothing but a bunch of selfish, egotistical fools. Go ahead, strike all you want.
==="R-00317" Mission Report===
''[A printed sheet of paper that looks neither new nor old.]''

Our intelligence showed that a fishing village on the northwest side of the Baltic Sear had salvaged an item with peculiar characteristics. Following their preliminary evaluation, the Council of Twelve determined this item could be used as a Lightbearer's Relic and dispatched Enforcer Umeko to retrieve it.

Mission details are as follows.


Pray, children of flesh and blood; pray for the Traveler's mercy, for its majesty; pray for all the blessings and sorrows borne by its Light.

Sing, creatures of the secluded bay; sing for the waves of the Baltic, for the never-ending catches.

Which child of Light lifted this strange object? Which ignorant fool imagined it a boon from the God of Good Harvest?

The dedicate all their songs, all their danced, to Freyr, ever ignorant that the Light is the answer to all.

But fear not, children. Fear not. The Light's followers shall step forth with the winds, returning all to its rightful state.


They watch as she gathers her robes, listen as she delivers her gentle admonishment. "Freyr perished long ago, in the Collapse. The brilliant mind devoured shall never return. Be wary of all that make use of His name."

Then, a violet radiance flowed through the brick walls and wove through the tips of her hair, like a soul wandering through limbo. At last, terror descended upon them. The lambs panicked for naught, and the rooster ceased his crowing. Yet from the mud and crevices crawled the insects, scurrying towards the light. As if pulled by forces unseen, they converged and flowed as a river through the village, from morning till night, never ceasing.

No longer was the strange object a symbol of good harvest; rather, it became bait for an evil that would consume the land. And thus the people said a new prayer: deliver us from this cursed artiact!

The answer came when she rang a bell, and her Void Light whisked the Relic away.


—Report written by: Baltic Regional Intelligence Officer (and the greatest Ghost bard in the Baltics) Njord
===Haven General Report - 045 (Umeko)===
Haven is a place that's exceeded my expectations.

I thought it'd be more or less the same as other human settlements, but it's far more prosperous and peaceful than I'd ever imagined. The way people live here—it's as if Earth was never invaded. They argue over price tags they think unreasonable, but they also offer supplies and support to newly arrived refugees.

Prior to my arrival in Haven, I'd read all 44 reports regarding this city in the archives, and I always took the "stability" they'd mentioned with a grain of salt. That was until I came here for myself and saw a kind, gentle, and well-proportioned cat. First impressions of cities can be deceptive, but the animals within them? Not so. They offer outsiders a comprehensive view of a city's nature in just a glance.

With my overview of the city's situation complete, I will now summarize my observations of each functional area and key personnel in Haven.

…

As a final note, I think…perhaps the Iron Lords here really are different? I'm not sure. People are so fickle. Who can possibly guarantee that they will always adhere to their true intentions? That their twisted desires won't control them?

I truly like Haven and hope they can become a steadfast ally. If there is such a possibility, I will volunteer to lead related missions.
===Lightbearer Observations (Updating)===
[Haven]

'''Zev:''' Friendly and patient with an excellent personality. Seemingly no flaws. If you can, please be kind to her.

'''Wolf:''' Will undoubtedly help you if you appear to be in need of aid, but is very quick-witted. Will notice and respond to any flaws in your act immediately. Overall, a good person.


'''Ophiuchus:''' Practically a floating encyclopedia, but with a rigid and serious personality. He's basically a stricter version of Whitebeard (if Whitebeard actually read all those books he keeps at his residence). Fantasy novels can be an icebreaker.

'''Ikora:''' A knowledgeable scholar who seems to harbor many secrets. She tends to roam, is very vigilant, and seems to lack patience when it comes to anything troublesome.


'''Epyon:''' Like a harsher, more mature version of Cocoa. She has full confidence in her Lightbearer, Jolder, and she almost unconditionally supports all of her decisions. She's not very fond of Jolder's apprentices, though. All that's needed to get close to Epyon is ample yet appropriate praise for Jolder.

'''Jolder:''' The famed Iron Champion. Possesses the chivalry of a knight, but can often be aggressive and harsh. She likes collecting shiny accessories and is a makeup enthusiast. This may be a good way to get close to her.


'''Tethra:''' Rarely appears and seldom speaks. Need to gather more information.

'''Tan-2:''' Often talks to himself—perhaps some sort of mental disorder? Overall, he's a passionate and kind person, like a younger version of Wolf. Although he seems easily exploited, his "second personality" is harder to get a read on. Needs further observation.


'''Crowther:''' A maverick of a Ghost. Likes goth and rock music. His Lightbearer Gwynn is his entire world, to the point where he prevents others from getting close to her. Getting close to him is similar to getting close to Epyon, but your praise and adoration for Gwynn can be even more enthusiastic. Note: Kara really doesn't like him. Might be a clash of personalities.

'''Gwynn:''' On an emotional level, she appears to be weaker than the average person. Fortunately, her pursuit is justice, which generally aligns with the Whisperer's goals. Best not to approach.


'''Swift:''' A patient, good-tempered steward who seems very experienced and knowledgeable on many topics. Not an easy target to deceive. If you must deal with him and his Lightbearer Attal, I recommend approaching them with sincerity.


'''Attal:''' A naïve and immature young woman who is friendly to all—somehow, this even includes the Fallen. She also shares a very close bond with Gwynn. Any operations targeting Gwynn may be able to exploit this.


'''Shams:''' Most of the time, he shoulders the responsibility of translating Kabr's slightly unconventional ideas for others. Has quite the lively personality. (Maybe he'd get along well with Cocoa?)

'''Kabr:''' Extremely passionate about making a name for himself. He's a bit of a hothead, but won't do anything to cause major harm. His "legend" would be effective bait.

…
===Relic Modification on Request===
[A sheet of paper, seemingly printed many years ago.]

This application for modifications to Umeko's Relic "Ayakiba" is being submitted in response to her relatively weak performance in the "Cooperative Combat Capabilities" portion of her "Enforcer" exam.

Modification Expectations: 

1. The modification should be capable of supporting teammates in cooperative combat, enabling her to quickly gain their trust and reduce the difficulty of missions. 

2. The modification cannot be overly conspicuous to the point of making others realize the Relic has been altered. 

3. Visual effects must match Umeko's combat style to avoid raising suspicion.

Modification Proposal: I propose a multi-person healing module be added to Ayakiba. Such a module can meet all three of the aforementioned expectations while also keeping Umeko herself safer. Such a module can be used in multi-person, cooperative combat, as well as in solo combat.

— Applicant: Kara


'''Status:''' Approved


'''Note:''' After careful discussion, we have decided to adopt the proposal to add a multi-person healing module to Ayakiba. Given the Relic's current performance, we recommend Umeko activate it while in "Voidstep."


[A line of small characters, written with brush and ink.]

Thank you.

===New Year's Present Shopping List===
'''[Classic Poetry Anthology *3] [Blank Book with Stick-On Book Cover *1]'''


Whitebeard's room is filled with poetry collections, so he must like them. But… How exactly does he read physical books…? I'll find a blank book and stick a poetry anthology cover on it . We'll see if Whitebeard finds out…


'''[Ghost Figurine *1]'''

I don't know why Moshui is so crazy about Ghost figurines, but I respect it. (I do find them very cute, but I'm not nearly at his level of obsession.)


'''[Sparkly Trinkets *4-5]'''

Cocoa loves this kind of stuff. I'll buy whatever trinkets I see that catch the light. (I need to remember what I've given her previously, though. Can't buy any repeats.)


'''["Agreed." Signboard *1]'''

Nothing could be more appropriate for Sagittarius, our resident "copy machine."


'''[Soft, Thick Hat *1]'''

Sootsy really likes resting on her Lightbearer's head. Maybe she'd be comfortable on something like this? (Try to find a hat that's concave on top.)


'''[Ghost Shells *12]'''


Can't buy any repeats. Once I find a suitable style, I'll need to get their names engraved on them.
<br><br>
As for Wheat… I have no idea what I should give him. The thing he wants most is to find his own Lightbearer—maybe I should go to a shrine and get him an en musubi omamori for good luck? I'll look around. If that's a no-go, then I'll just take the lazy way out.

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

==Key Words==
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==Parameters==
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==Gallery==

<gallery>
File:Ayakiba-Tree.png|Ayakiba upgrade tree
File:Ayakiba-Files.png
File:Ayakiba-Wide.png
</gallery>

==References==
<references/>

{{Lightbearers/Rising}}
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[[Category:Characters/Rising]]
[[Category:Awoken/Rising]]
[[Category:Lightbearers/Rising]]
[[Category:Playable characters/Rising]]