Silver-haired Echo Trainer - II

Hello, Rover, can you hear me? It’s me, Chixia.

I'm on the job and things have gotten pretty sticky... Can you come lend me a hand?

Uhhh... I don't know how to explain it on the phone. You'll know when you get here!

But don’t worry, I’m sure I won’t let you help for nothing!

I had a feeling you’d help! Thank you so much! I’ll see you near the theater!

*sigh*...

Grandpa Jingzhu, seriously, you’re not well... Let’s forget about capturing Echoes for now and head straight to the hospital, okay?

No way! If I don't capture an impressive Echo, I'll be too anxious to even think about eating or sleeping.

Oh, come on! You shouldn't be out there chasing them at your age. Why do you have to get one?

Ahem, because the person I like wants one!

The person you like...?

Yes. You know, it's not usual for a man of my years to seek love, but I love her. She keeps rejecting me.

She’s into impressive Echoes, so that’s my in.

Sadly, I only have a Hoartoise. Round face, round head. Far from impressive.

If I could just get an Echo that meets her standards, maybe she’d let me have a chance.

Uh... Grandpa Jingzhu, are you really sure about that? It sounds a bit strange. It's not every day you see a lady keen on Echoes.

At least, it seems to be the only way to her heart.

Despite the odds, I’m resolved to attempt it.

But you’re not at your best. You really should take some good rest.

Who knows what might happen if you take another tumble down that hillside...

Oh, sorry! I shouldn’t have said such things!

Little Patroller, you're still too young to understand what love means. Enduring physical pain is one thing, but the ache of unrequited love is something even great heroes can't overcome.

Anyway, I’ll capture an impressive Echo and seize my love.

Oh, please reconsider, Grandpa Jingzhu! Echoes will always be there for you to capture. Once you recover, you can catch as many as you want!

Once I recover... But kid, I grow tired of waiting. When will the opportunity arise again?

Besides, Tacet Discords are most active recently, so it’s the best time to capture impressive Echoes!

I can’t let this chance slip away.

Okay, okay. How about this?

I’ll go catch Echoes for you and you’ll go to the hospital. Is that okay?

But I don’t want to bother you with my own issue...

No worries. It’s no trouble at all! After all, it’s a Patroller’s duty to take care of the residents’ needs.

Well, it doesn’t sit right with me having you work overtime for my personal issues. If you’re going to help, you have to accept some compensation from my savings. It’s the least I can do.

Oh, no need to worry about paying me! Actually, I have a really skilled friend who could help. What if we hire {Male=him;Female=her} to help instead?

That’s fine for me.

Excellent! Leave it to me! Grandpa Jingzhu, now please go to the hospital and tend to your injuries.

We’re almost there. Stick close to me!

Grandpa Jingzhu, are you feeling alright?

I’m feeling perfectly good. Instead of worrying me, let’s focus on these Tacet Discords.

You’re right. There’s a whole bunch of Tacet Discords around. Which one do you think we should capture first?

Exactly, that’s my goal. Let’s aim to capture the most impressive of them all!

Ah, let me think... the most formidable and impressive one around here is... Havoc Warrior! Let's capture it!

Havoc Warrior is the monster with those big scythes, right? It’s indeed impressive! Grandpa Jingzhu, I had no idea you were so knowledgeable about Tacet Discords!

Of course! Back in my prime, with my captain, we captured all kinds of Tacet Discords...

Hm? There are several Havoc Warriors ahead. Let’s go!

It’s a Havoc Warrior! Watch out!

Don’t worry, Grandpa, Rover is really strong!

Check it out, Grandpa Jingzhu! These massive scythes are just too cool, huh?

Mm, not bad. She should be pleased this time.

I hope, just this once, she’ll stay long enough to hear me out before walking straight away...

Ooh, I’ve got an idea! What if we transformed into the Scythes? That’d definitely impress her!

Oh, please don’t, dear. She might be scared. Perhaps we should gather a few more, just to be sure.

Havoc Warrior is undoubtedly impressive, but relying on a single Echo might not be enough to capture her heart...

We need a collection, a display of multiple Echoes to truly leave an impression!

Yep! Having a bunch of Echoes following behind turns head, but how can we snag more?

To Tacet Field! Tacet Discords are drawn to those grounds like moths to a flame.

Shh... I think I sense it. The frequencies of the Tacet Field...

There’s a Tacet Field nearby!

Wow, there is indeed a Tacet Field! Grandpa Jingzhu, you really know a lot!

Hehe, I already told you, this old man had his fair share of adventures in his prime!

Now, it’s your moment to shine. Clear this Tacet Field and you should be able to capture some Echoes.

Grandpa Jingzhu, are these Echoes enough?

Absolutely! See? The Echoes obtained in this Tacet Field can make up a team with Havoc Warrior.

Hmm... Let me take a look. You're right!

Rover, luck is on your side, huh? Putting together a team so quickly. Usually, it takes us quite a bit of effort to form an Echo team.

Oops, my bad! I got carried away and forgot to explain what that’s all about.

Hmm... Give me a sec. I’m searching for the right words here.

As you already know, each Echo has its own unique frequency. When we gather several Echoes together, it's like...

It's like having a bunch of people playing different instruments. Most of the time, the melodies clash and it's a total mess.

But there are times when melodies blend together perfectly, creating a beautiful harmony!

Forming an Echo team is just like that!

I hope that made sense... Anyway, why not give it a shot yourself? It's the quickest way to understand!

There she is, Linghan, m-my beloved wife... wife-to-be.

It’s the Noctemint, her favorite flower.

I’m about to ask her, "Would you accept this Noctemint and join me on a lifelong journey?"

But alas, my efforts seem to fall short... I truly hope she’ll appreciate this Noctemint this time.

Perhaps, with my carefully prepared opening lines and the majestic Echoes you’ve captured, she’ll finally accept my love.

Do you remember the opening lines? I’ll say my line first, and you’ll follow up! Remember to set the mood!

Alright, there’s no time to waste. I must make my move!

Do you know what’s sweeter than any bloom?

Not the Waterlamp’s glow!

But the blossom of our love’s perfect tune!

Good! Better strike while the iron’s hot!

Do you know what lasts forever in Wuthering Waves?

Not fleeting civilizations!

But my unwavering love for you, forevermore!

...

You done? Please excuse me.

Wait! I have a surprise for you!

Hurry! Show her those majestic Echoes!

Look! Aren’t these Echoes impressive? These two youngsters assisted me in capturing them.

Linghan, we’re of similar age, with shared interests. I hold you dear and desire nothing more than to journey through life with you. Would you do me the honor of accepting this Noctemint?

Speaking of Echoes, that’s my specialty.

If you’re aiming to become an Echo Master, you can’t judge an Echo solely from its appearance. Take this Carapace, for instance. Despite its imposing scythes, it may not be what it seems.

What truly counts is finding the Echo that resonates with you and nurturing it wisely. Always remember, never let appearances sway your decisions!

Yes, yes. So, might you consider accepting this Noctemint?

No, thank you. I’m not interested. I’d rather bask in the sunshine and enjoy some dried melon seeds all by myself.

Rover, are you ready?

No worries. Take your time to sharpen your weapons.

Well done, well done indeed. This Echo team is much more impressive than mine back in the day, haha!

Alright, I can feel the confidence swelling within me! Let’s return to Jinzhou and dazzle her!

Hehe, I can already picture the look on her face!

Grandpa Jingzhu, you’re already done with treatment? That was quick!

Don’t let this old man’s age fool you. I’m still strong and these injuries hardly slow me down!

Really? Um... though it does seem like you’re totally fine now.

Of course! I’m used to injuries. Anyway, I’m feeling perfectly fine now. Shall we go?

Are you coming with us, Grandpa Jingzhu?

Of course, how could I let you youngsters handle my affairs while I sit around? It’s dangerous outside Jinzhou and I’m familiar with the situation there. I’m sure I can be of some help.

But...

Haha, don’t worry! This old man used to be quite something in his day! Even though I’m old now, I can still hold my own against any danger.

Okay, Grandpa Jingzhu, promise me you’ll take care of yourself. If anything dangerous pops up, don’t try to tough it out. Just give me a holler right away!

After all, it’s part of my Patroller duties.

Her house is over there. I've walked that path many times and I won't make a mistake.

Before I go knocking on her door, there's a favor I must ask of you.

Ahem, I’ve prepared some opening lines and I need your assistance in delivering them.

Well, just some nice words, carefully chosen, and I believe they’ll definitely do the trick.

Do you know what’s sweeter than any bloom? Not the Waterlamp’s glow, nor the Iris’s perfume, but the blossom of our love’s perfect tune!

Do you know what lasts forever in Wuthering Waves? Not fleeting civilizations, nor Tacet Discords’ lore, but my unwavering love for you, forevermore!

Well... Grandpa Jingzhu, what are these?

Popular Love Messages in Huanglong! Ahem, I know it might seem a bit strange for someone of my age to say such things...

But as long as I can win her heart, I can put aside my pride.

I’m counting on you. After I say my line, you’ll follow up to set the perfect mood.

Rover, I had no idea you’re even more helpful than me! Way to go!

That’s settled then. Thank you, kids.

Grandma Linghan turned him down, right?

She didn’t accept my Noctemint...

Yeah, that's a bit of a bummer. I'm feeling a little down about it too...

Hey, Grandpa Jingzhu, how about we shake off the blues with a stroll? Or maybe grab a bite to eat? I know a place that serves great Maocai, spicy but delicious!

I’m not disheartened, not in the slightest!

I’ve been reflecting on Linghan’s words, and it’s become clear to me.

She wasn’t rejecting me. She was urging me to nurture the Echoes with care.

It’s her way of guiding me forward. Hahaha, she truly does care about me!

...Starting to wonder if Grandpa Jingzhu bumped his head.

Come along, my young friends! There's no time to waste. We're leaving the city to gather the materials needed...

Wait, Grandpa Jingzhu! Take it easy! It's getting late, and you're still recovering from your injury. Plus, Rover must be beat after capturing all those Echoes...

Oh, my apologies. I got carried away and lost track of time. You must be exhausted. Let’s do it another day.

Ah, almost forgot. Here’s your compensation. Please, accept it.

Good! Next time I ask for your help, I’ll also pay you a decent sum. It’s how connections are forged, isn’t it?

Take it, kid. You’ve earned it. Next time I ask for your help, I’ll also pay you a decent sum. It’s how connections are forged, isn’t it?

You’ve both worked hard today. Hurry home and rest up! Thank you!

Hehe, knew we could pull it off! We’ve got an Echo now, easy peasy.

Hey Rover, hurry and absorb it before it poofs away!

Whew, finally done! Let me see...

Whoa, two more Echoes to go! Rover, you’re so lucky!

You know, the chances for Echoes to appear after taking down Tacet Discords are slim, not to mention bagging two at once!

They say the stronger your Terminal, the likelier it is for Echoes to pop up. That's because... because... Anyway, your Terminal must be crazy powerful! Right?

Finally convinced Grandpa Jingzhu to go to the hospital... It's getting late. Rover should be arriving here soon...

Oh my, you scared me! When did you get here?

Then what do you think?

Great, you can make some extra money while helping Grandpa Jingzhu. Talk about killing two birds with one stone, right?

Alrighty then, let’s get prepped and roll out!

Hey there, Rover! Remember Grandpa Jingzhu?

Yep, the one who said that “my-unwavering-love” thing.

So, I ran into him earlier, and he needs our help in snagging Echoes again. Hence, the call.

Awesome! We’ll catch you near the training grounds, then.

Hello, our paths cross again. What brings you here this time?

I see. Follow me. Select a training program that aligns with your current skill level.

Just a word of caution. Don’t let overconfidence cloud your judgment when choosing. It’s wise not to bite off more than you can chew.

Otherwise, you may find yourself in tears.

Whoa! It’s even more impressive now! Check out those scythes—they’re seriously intimidating!

Despite your youthful vigor, enduring Yhan’s training again in such a brief span may still be quite a challenge. Maybe, we can...

This voice... I knew it's you, Mr. Jingzhu.

In-Instructor Yhan?

Ah, you still recognize this old face, Yhan.

You two know each other?

We do and for a long time.

In the days of the Midnight Rangers, Mr. Jingzhu commanded my utmost respect.

It’s been a while since we last met. Mr. Jingzhu. You still look spirited... though your legs don’t seem as nimble?

Ahem, just a minor accident. You see, I’m getting on in years. A little slip while hiking. Nothing to worry about!

I’ve been resting and should recover soon.

Your injuries seem to have healed well, but don’t underestimate the importance of rest.

You’re as talkative as ever, boy. Back in the day, we endured far worse and still fought valiantly in battles. Remember?

But you have retired for a long time...

Retired I may be, but the fire still burns within me! It’s been quite some time since I retired, and opportunities to mingle with you youngsters are rare these days.

And here stands Chief Instructor Yhan. You’ve been keeping well, I trust?

I’m merely fulfilling my duty. And how fare your old comrades?

Except for Captain and myself, they all... Ah, never mind. Let’s focus on happier topics during this once-in-a-while reunion.

The past is the past. When you reach my age, you’ll realize that the present moment holds the most significance in life!

Live in the moment and cherish each passing day. That’s how we honor our comrades’ sacrifices.

Indeed, Mr. Jingzhu. The present demands our full attention.

Exactly, then let’s talk about the present. You know what I need now. Are you willing to lend a hand?

You’re as spirited as ever, Mr. Jingzhu.

Haha, I’m truly flattered.

These should be enough for your needs. Take them.

Great, thanks.

Instructor Yhan doesn’t seem half as evil as the rumors make him out to be.

Back here again, in this familiar spot.

Grandpa Jingzhu, you’re here to see Grandma, right?

I heard you're... um, what's the word? Courting Grandma?

Oh my! Hold on, Yingying. You’re too young to understand what that means.

I even learned a new term! Late-life love!

Anyway, Grandpa, you should go for it! I’ll go tell Grandma you’re here!

GRANDMA!

Grandpa Jingzhu is back with more Noctemints for you, Grandma!

Oh my, oh my, kids these days are something else.

Noctemints?

It’s strange. Lately, about ten gentlemen have brought me Noctemints.

It’s twelve.

And now I'm the thirteenth one... Hold on, those before were all me too…

Remember what you told me last time? One can’t judge an Echo solely from its appearance.

That actually makes perfect sense! So I’ve honed these scythes even sharper!

You can interpret it that way.

What a relief to hear that! Alright, let me present to you what we’ve managed to achieve this time!

What do you think, Linghan?

Sorry, what was the reason for your visit again? Ah, to show me the Echo?

NO! Grandma, he’s here to give you Noctemints!

Yingying seems to be quite lively today, and that helped me a lot.

I suppose I should seize this opportunity. Yes, that’s right. I did come to bring you Noctemints. Would you like to spend the rest of your life with me?

Oh dear, this is quite the headache. Thank you, but I'm not presently interested in seeking a partner. Even if I were, I'd prefer someone akin to my former lover...

He was a wise and valiant soldier, and even his Echoes were impressive. Compared to him, everyone else falls short.

So, feel free to ask me anything Echo-related, but let’s keep everything else off the table.

Alright, then... Sorry to bother you. I shall take my leave.

Now that we’re all here, Grandpa Jingzhu, what’s the plan?

Since our last parting, I’ve been pondering over Linghan’s words, and they’ve offered me a new perspective!

“If you’re aiming to become an Echo Master, you can’t judge an Echo solely from its appearance. Take this Carapace, for instance. Despite its imposing scythes, it may not what it seems.”

She believed that the Scythes are only imposing on the surface, yet lacking in practicality and sharpness as weapons.

I’m sure if I can hone these scythes to blade-like sharpness, Linghan will gladly accept my Noctemint.

One improves with practice. We’ll know the answer once I try.

Alright then, let’s set to sharpening these giant scythes!

Um... Speaking of the Echo training grounds...

Ah, that’d be Instructor Yhan’s training grounds! I’ve been there before for the Patroller Graduation Assessment. Honestly, if I can help it, I’d rather not go for round two.

Ahem, but with Rover by our side today, it won’t be so nerve-wracking, right?

Being timid doesn’t fit being a Patroller! Follow my lead. Let’s roll!

I’ve heard rumors that Yhan has turned into quite the strict instructor. You’d better take care.

There are quite a few juniors in there who were once beaten hard by me, haha! So, I’ll refrain from joining you and spoiling their spirits.

Here we are. Go on in. Wish you good luck!

Not bad. Far beyond my expectations.

Rover, you never fail to impress me.

Don’t hesitate to come to me if you need help. I’d be happy to provide training at different levels for enthusiastic people like you.

Haha, that sounds a tad... intimidating, doesn't it?

I never imagined we’d breeze through all that training so quickly! You’re truly living up to your name, Rover!

Let’s go break the good news to Grandpa Jingzhu!

Back so soon?

Yhan is quite a formidable figure. Breezing through his training is truly commendable.

I have no doubt that the world will soon be at your feet, youngsters!

Haha, enough banter. Let’s get down to the business first. The scythes of the Havoc Warrior await our sharpening!

It seems Grandpa Jingzhu was rejected again.

...

Grandpa Jingzhu, are you okay? Please don’t be sad... I-I’ll do everything I can to cheer you up.

Hmm? Sad? Not in the slightest! Even if I were, it’d be but a mere act.

Thirteen failures down, but I’m not about to throw in the towel! I’ll persist, be it the fourteenth, fifteenth, or beyond...

For I’ve resolved to become the wise and valiant soldier that matches Linghan’s ideals!

I feel bad for rendering your efforts futile.

Thank you. You two are really kind-hearted!

Thirteen consecutive rejections... Perhaps it’s time for some introspection on my approach...

Perhaps, Linghan isn’t used to such direct and impassioned displays of affection?

That makes sense... Grandma Linghan does seem rather serious, so perhaps it’s time to switch tactics?

Hmm... What alternative approach should I try?

That’s a great idea! Start by engaging her in a topic that grabs her attention, and you might find yourself getting closer to her. Then, asking her to be your partner might just fall into place naturally!

Indeed, it seems Echoes are the only thing that captures her interest.

I’ll have to think carefully about how to improve the Echo. Actually, my captain taught me a lot back in the day, but age has dulled my memory.

Alright, let’s call it a day. I need to go home and think it over. Here, this is your payment for today’s efforts.

I’m still surprised at the revelation that Grandpa Jingzhu was once a Midnight Ranger.

Hmph, I’m used to keeping a low profile. Bide my time to impress Linghan.

Make her fall in love with me with only one shot!

With my natural charm and these finely honed scythes, I’m confident this time I’ll win Linghan’s heart and let her accept my Noctemint!

Ahem, absolutely!

What makes Grandpa Jingzhu so sure that having a powerful Echo will win Grandma Linghan’s heart?

Of course, it’s not just the Echo I’ve prepared! Linghan once shared her criteria for an ideal partner.

She said her ideal partner is a wise and valiant soldier wielding a handsome greatsword, accompanied by a majestic Echo, facing countless foes with unrivaled poise.

You see? Apart from the majestic Echo, everything else fits me to a tee!

...

Why the look? Do you lack faith in me? It’s understandable, given the generation gap between us.

But when it comes to matters of love, especially for us seniors, trust me. I’ve got this!

Alright, all set and ready. Let’s pay a visit to Linghan.