Eclipse
Basic File
Personal Info
A member of Abyssal Route, an organization specializing in support and escort services, Eclipse has spent years in the Abyss, rooting out evil and striving to preserve peace.
She is a person of unwavering principle, driven by a powerful sense of justice.
One that doesn't bend to bribes, threats, or even a client's demand, one that allows her to stick to what she believes to be right on missions.
This firm stance has earned her a polarized reputation among clients: some find her stubborn and inflexible, while others admire her honesty and strength of conviction.
Both of her parents are respected scholars known for their sharp critiques of injustice and their constant advocacy for kindness and virtue. It's likely that Eclipse's strong moral compass was shaped by their influence.
However, while she shares her parents' ideals, she chose a very different path and the reasons behind that choice remain unclear.
Chronicles
Personally, I've always had a good impression of Miss Eclipse. She's powerful, principled, and takes her duties very seriously.
But, she's not the easiest person to talk to. Everything goes strictly by the contract terms and even long-time partners like us don't get any leeway.
Heh... I get that her profession comes with certain rules, but a little flexibility wouldn't hurt, right? As long as nobody talks...
— A Merchant
She first came to me to fulfil a promise she'd made to her parents: That she'd earn my approval in martial arts training within a set timeframe. Or else return home to follow in her parents' steps.
Well... she passed, of course. And no, I didn't go easy on her.
In terms of talent, comprehension, and effort, she held her own against any disciple I've ever taught. But what truly stood out was her courage and determination.
Compared to her, I feel like a coward. Because the Abyss... the place I ran away from, the place I couldn't bear to face. She chose to devote herself to it.
— Eclipse's Mentor
We provided her with the best education we could. A comprehensive, refined kind that is designed to prepare her for writing. We wanted her to understand more about the world, to carry on our legacy.
But instead, she showed an odd preference for self-cultivation courses. You know, meditation, personal growth, all that. It distracted her from the academic path we planned out for her...
But what's done is done. At least, our ultimate goals align. Let history judge the rest.
— Eclipse's Father
She flatly rejects any mission contradicting her principles or clients' requests falling outside the agreed terms.
Even if it means she'll be penalized, she won't bend. She'll take the consequences without flinching. However, if it's a cause she upholds, she would take it on without a second thought, even with little or no reward.
If I could be that composed and self-assured... I'd be doing a lot better by now.
— Driftlight from Abyssal Route
Record
Beneath her stern exterior lies a deeply compassionate soul.
Since joining the team, she has never hesitated to lend a hand whenever someone is in need.
But if something goes against her beliefs, she won't involve herself and in some cases, she'll intervene directly to set things right.
In conversation, she once revealed that her parents are professional writers who hope to awaken people's sense of justice and kindness through their books, believing that change in the Abyss can begin with the written word.
While Eclipse respects the power of literature, theory without action is hollow in her opinion. How can one preach about suffering they've never faced?
Actions speak louder than words. She believes in defending what's right with her own hands, hoping in doing so, she will inspire those around her.
This difference in approach once strained their relationship to the brink.
But after spending time in the Abyss and going through her own share of trials, Eclipse has come to better understand their perspective. In turn, her parents have learned to respect the path she's chosen.
Anecdote
During a mission, Eclipse subdued a group of bandits.
Once she confirmed they were no longer capable of pursuit, she chose to stand down, ready to continue the journey with the treasure-hunting party she was assigned to protect.
"Miss Eclipse, you're just... leaving them? Ah, worried about getting your hands dirty, I see? Heh. Wu, finish them off."
The team leader said casually, snapping his fingers for one of his men to act. But Eclipse stepped in to block him.
"They're crippled. No need for more bloodshed."
The leader shot her a suspicious look, then chuckled, "Ah, I get it. This kind of work tends to get messy. Fine, we'll pay extra. Consider it a hand-cleaning fee!"
"It's not about the money. They're no longer a threat. Killing them now serves no purpose."
The man's smile quickly soured.
"So, you won't kill them, even for extra pay? What... You know these bandits or something?"
"Yeah! Maybe this whole thing was a setup! Maybe you and those thugs planned this attack together, just so you could keep charging us for protection!"
As the accusations escalated, Eclipse made no move to defend herself. She stood there quietly watching him lashing out.
Eventually, the man ran out of steam. He stalked up to her, face twisted with anger.
"I hired you! It's people like us that feed people like you! You do what I say!"
"Your support is appreciated. I will continue to do my best to ensure your safety."
"Just you wait! I'll file a complaint the moment we get back!"
"That is within your rights," she answered, her voice as calm as ever.
With an irritated wave, the leader ordered the group onward. Eclipse let out a quiet sigh and followed behind.
"... There goes another paycheck, probably."