Aalto Ascension Materials and Skills

Aalto is an enigmatic Information Broker, known for his elusive nature and welcoming smile. Rumor has it he’ll provide any information at the right price.

Upgrade Cost

Skill Upgrade Cost

To max out all of Aalto’s skills, gather these Forte materials:

• 25 LF Howler Core
• 28 MF Howler Core
• 40 HF Howler Core
• 57 FF Howler Core
• 25 Impure Phlogiston
• 28 Extracted Phlogiston
• 55 Refined Phlohiston
• 67 Flawless Phlohiston
• 26 Monument Bell
• 2,030,000 Shell Credits

Ascension and Level Cost

These are the materials you need to ascend Aalto to Level 90:

• 4 LF Howler Core
• 12 MF Howler Core
• 12 HF Howler Core
• 4 FF Howler Core
• 46 Roaring Rock Fist
• 60 Wintry Bell
• 170,000 Shell Credits

Skills

Normal Attack: Half Truths

Basic Attack

Aalto fires up to 5 consecutive shots, dealing Aero DMG. Basic Attack 4 will spread the “Mist” forward, which lasts for 1.5s.

Heavy Attack

Aalto enters the aiming state for a more powerful shot.

The aimed shot fired after charging finishes deals Aero DMG.

Mid-air Attack

Aalto consumes STA to perform consecutive shots at the target in mid-air, dealing Aero DMG.

Dodge Counter

Use Basic Attack after a successful Dodge to attack the target, dealing Aero DMG.

Resonance Skill: Shift Trick

Mist Avatar

Casts “Mist” and 1 “Mist Avatar(s)” to taunt the surrounding targets. The avatars inherit a portion of Aalto’s HP and generate 6 Mist Bullets around them, dealing Aero DMG.

Mist Bullets

Deals Aero DMG, considered as Resonance Skill damage.

Resonance Liberation: Flower in the Mist

Generate a “Gate of Quandary” in front, dealing Aero DMG. When bullets pass through the “Gate of Quandary”, they deal increased DMG. “Gate of Quandary” lasts for 10s.

Intro Skill: Feint Shot

Aalto shows up out of thin air to perform rapid continuous shooting, dealing Aero DMG.

Outro Skill: Dissolving Mist

The incoming Resonator has their Aero DMG Amplified by 23% for 14s or until they are switched out.

Forte Circuit: Misty Cover

When Aalto passes through “Mist” or “Gate of Quandary”, he enters the Mistcloak Dash.

Mistcloak Dash

– Movement speed increased;

– During this period, “Mist Drops” are continuously consumed, and for each 1 “Mist Drop” consumed, 1 Mist Bullet(s) is generated.

Mist Drops

Aalto can hold up to 6 “Mist Drops”.

When Basic Attack or Mid-air Attack passes through “Mist” and hits the target, 1 “Mist Drop” is recovered.

Inherent Skill: Perfect Performance

Aalto’s Heavy Attack will always critically hit, triggered once every 30s.

Inherent Skill: Mid-game Break

Aalto will continuously recover Stamina when he is in the Forte Circuit Miscloak Dash state.

Inherent Skill: Skillful Cooking

Has a chance to produce special dishes when cooking

Stat Bonus: Aero DMG Bonus+

Aero DMG Bonus increased by 1.80%.

Stat Bonus: ATK+

ATK increased by 1.80%.

Stat Bonus: ATK+

ATK increased by 1.80%.

Stat Bonus: Aero DMG Bonus+

Aero DMG Bonus increased by 1.80%.

Stat Bonus: Aero DMG Bonus+

Aero DMG Bonus increased by 4.20%.

Stat Bonus: ATK+

ATK increased by 4.20%.

Stat Bonus: ATK+

ATK increased by 4.20%.

Stat Bonus: Aero DMG Bonus+

Aero DMG Bonus increased by 4.20%.

Resonance Chain

Sequence Node 1: Trickster’s Opening Show

The cooldown of Resonance Skill Shift Trick is reduced by 4s.

Sequence Node 2: Mistweaver’s Debut

“Mist Avatar” inherits 100% more HP from Aalto. When Aalto attacks targets taunted by the “Mist Avatar(s)”, his ATK is increased by 15%.

Sequence Node 3: Hazey Transition

When Aalto’s Basic Attack or Mid-air Attack passes through the Mist, 2 more bullets will be generated, dealing 50% of the DMG of Basic Attack or Mid-air Attack.

Sequence Node 4: Blake Bloom for Finale

The damage of Resonance Skill Mist Bullets is increased by 30%; Aalto receives 30% less damage in his Forte Circuit Mistcloak Dash state.

Sequence Node 5: Applause of the Lost

In the Forte Circuit Mistcloak Dash state, Aalto’s Aero DMG Bonus is increased by 25% for 6s.

Sequence Node 6: Broker’s Secrets

Resonance Liberation Flower in the Mist now additionally increases Crit. Rate by 8%. When Aalto’s Heavy Attack passes through the “Gate of Quandary”, the damage dealt is additionally increased by 50%.

Backstory

Forte Examination Report

Resonance Power

Mistcloak Strike

Resonance Examination Report

Evaluation Basis: [Resonance Assessment 1617-G]

According to Resonator Aalto’s reports, there was a rare occurrence of heavy fog on the day of his birth. Aalto’s Tacet Mark is located on the left side of his neck. Other than gaining the ability to briefly transform into a mist-like form, no significant physical changes have been observed in Aalto’s body after his Awakening.

Resonator Aalto excels in the art of camouflage and transformation, often assuming an elusive and fluctuating physical state, akin to the characteristics of mist. Further tests conducted to ascertain the properties of the mist he conjures yielded inconclusive results.

The Resonance Spectrum Pattern of Aalto matches our known Spectrum Patterns of fog. Strong Syntony Reactions have been observed during testing, confirming the connection between fog and Aalto’s Awakening.

Additionally, analysis of test samples has revealed a non-convergent Rabelle’s Curve with a noticeable periodic waveform, which classifies Aalto as a Congenital Resonator.

Researcher’s Annotation: As stated in the report, this Resonator is cunning and a master of disguises, thus rendering the credibility of his recounts questionable.

Annotation to the annotation: As a broker honoring integrity. I, Aalto, solemnly swear that the recount I presented is 100% truth. Nothing more, nothing less. Resonator Aalto’s waveform graph shows displays stable elliptical fluctuations in the Time Domain with no abnormal patterns. Upon examination, all results fall within normal parameters.

In terms of Resonant Criticality, Resonator Aalto ranks at a moderate level with high stability, resulting in a low risk of Overclocking.

Resonator Aalto disappeared halfway through the Overclock diagnosis, thus no Overclock history records were obtained.

A Bad Deal

A bad deal.

Or so it seemed.

One day, Aalto became known for the intel he had on some ancient treasure. From naughty children to old men in their sixties, many wanted to buy that intel from him, but he politely turned down every offer.

“Hey, little one. Better not spend your allowance on this. Let’s get you home.”

“Sorry, gramps. I don’t accept retirement funds.”

These people all assumed they didn’t offer enough to pique Aalto’s interest, but actually, he was simply waiting for the right buyer.

Then, one day, that very buyer finally appeared, cloaked in layers. The man struck the deal with Aalto at a shockingly low price. Others were baffled by Aalto’s willingness to accept such a bad offer.

Days later, an electronic display in the New Federation police department office broadcasted the latest news: the long-sought theft ring had finally been caught.

A cloud of mist crept into the police chief’s office, obscuring the display.

“Enough TV. It’s time to settle our deal.”

The chief slammed a folder of files onto the desk, along with a suitcase filled with Credits.

“That’s quite a trick you pulled off back there. Tell me, Mr. Aalto, how were you so sure they’d take the bait? Touting valuable intel about the legendary treasure in broad daylight, weren’t you worried about catching their suspicion?”

“Don’t underestimate cash-chasing gamblers. They’ll risk it all, even their lives. Profit is worth any danger to them.”

The police chief pushed the files and suitcase towards Aalto.

“Here’s your payment, and the list of names you requested. Pleasure doing business.”

“Same to you.”

Aalto opened the suitcase, took out a single piece of Shell Credit, and flipped it into the air. Before the Credit could touch the ground, he had already transformed into mist, vanishing from sight.

A Fair Exchange

A fair exchange.

Under Aalto’s rules.

According to Aalto, every customer is equal. Be it a high-ranking official, an aristocrat, a commoner on city streets, or an Exile shunned by society, they are no different. Aalto never categorizes his customers into ranks — no high and low; no rich and poor. Treating every customer equally has always been his unwavering principle.

Yet, there would always be those who try to test his limit.

“Aalto, right? You’re comin’ with us.”

Aalto sensed the ill intention behind the visitor’s approach, but he put on a welcoming smile as usual.

“Aww… Sorry, pal, but that’s a no-can-do. This customer right here was in line first.”

Suddenly, the other client was shoved aside as the thugs barged in, causing chaos and panic in the crowded room. The other patrons all fled, fearful of injury.

Aalto quickly came to the victim’s aid, guiding them to safety with a gentle hand. With a calm demeanor, he righted a toppled chair and casually draped an arm around the agitated thug’s shoulder.

“Listen, buddy, everything has its rules. I’ve got mine written down right here, see? ‘First come, first served. No pushing or shoving.’ What am I supposed to do with you breaking two rules in one go?”

The thug shook his arm off, “If our boss wants to see someone, he gets what he wants. That’s the rule we go by.”

Mist obscured the crowd as Aalto’s words ended. He swiftly incited chaos, causing the thugs to turn on each other in panic.

“Oops, my bad. I forgot to mention another rule: ‘No hustling deals.’ Let your boss know not to break any rules next time. Can’t do business without them.”

With their tails tucked between their legs, the thugs fled, leaving Aalto to return to his usual welcoming smile.

“Alrighty then! Let’s pick up where we left off. What was it you wanted to inquire about again, good sir?”

A Perfect Duo

A perfect duo.

That’s how they dub themselves.

Whenever Aalto the information broker is brought up, people can’t help but think of that little girl with pink ponytails. The two are almost inseparable, and their presence brings a burst of noise wherever they go.

Outside a heavily guarded building, a man in sunglasses leaned casually against the wall, while the little girl next to him used her hands as binoculars to scan the area.

“See the target? The one we’re after.”

“Yuppers! Target sighted. Encore will get it done real quick, as long as Aalto doesn’t drag behind me!”

“Aw. Encore, you broke my heart. My plan is flawle—”

Before he could finish, Encore had already dashed out with Cloudy and Cosmos, leaving Aalto’s words hanging in the air.

In the distance, Aalto could see Encore talking to the guard, making big gestures in the air, and occasionally pointing at him.

When Aalto got there, the guard let him in and patted his shoulder. He looked sympathetic.

“Buddy, must be hard raising your daughter alone all these years.”

Aalto simply nodded along in silent camaraderie. He took Encore inside the building without encountering any problems.

“Why do people always believe your stories, Aalto? They all sound so fake!”

“You see, my stories are tailor-made for each situation.”

“What’s that supposed to mean?”

“He’s a single dad. He’d find that heartbreaking family tale you told super relatable. Also, what do you mean my stories are fake? “

Cloudy and Cosmos jumped onto Encore’s shoulders and sang a chorus of “Baa, baa baa.”

“Look! The Woolies think they sound super fake, too.”

“Well, fake or not, they got the job done just fine. Alright, here comes the real deal. Time to bring out your A game.”

“Woolies Adventure time. Let’s do this!”

A Free Service

A service free of charge.

At least, that’s how Encore saw it.

Aalto is well-known to be a profit-driven broker. Pay enough money and he’d readily provide any information. And so, his potential customers always come with a hefty sum of money prepared.

However, his desired payments can sometimes be unpredictable and bizarre — ranging from a black pearl to a cloud in the sky or even a piece of music.

Some may throw a tantrum over the seemingly ridiculous request, but Aalto would simply show them the door with a polite smile.

“My dear customer, ever heard of the saying ‘amiability makes you rich’? You really need to mind your language. Besides, it’s just business, not charity. If you can’t be bothered with the payment, then I’m afraid we’ll just have to do business at another time.”

Once, a ragged little boy paced back and forth of Aalto’s door for several days.

“Howdy, little man, what’s with the long face? Let me guess. Lost your puppy?”

“Wow! You really know everything! So, do you know where Pebbles went?”

“You know, there’s no such thing as a free lunch. You want my help, then you’ll have to pay up.”

The boy shook his head, disappointed,”But I don’t have anything on me.”

“Well, that’s rather unfortunate… Let’s see. How about you pay me after I find Pebbles for you?”

Aalto’s mist soon spread to every corner. Eventually, he found the lost puppy outside the city and safely brought it back.

Beneath the twinkling night stars, a happy puppy ran to the little boy, wagging its tail in excitement.

As today’s story came to an end, Encore couldn’t help but ask, “I didn’t know you’d help people for free!”

Aalto responded with a smile, idly twirling a small marble in his hand. On its surface was a roughly carved smiley face, reminiscent of a young boy’s crafting.

Water the Flowers, Dear Guest

“Welcome to the Black Shores! Would you like to start by watering the flowers, or saving humanity?”

The Black Shores is situated on a remote island. Aside from the regular monsoons, currents, and butterflies, the island is only ever visited by the rising and falling tides. This uncharted area is not found on any world map.

This secretive organization is dedicated to the lofty goals of world salvation: the kind people would only expect to see in tales.

It’s no wonder that people often struggle to believe Aalto, a seemingly unserious and elusive figure, is tied to this enigmatic group.

To truly understand Aalto, one needs to see through his enigmatic exterior to uncover the kind and steadfast heart beating within.

He was well aware that his mist alone could never hide the permanent wounds inflicted by the Lament on this planet.

This is why he readily agreed to a long-term cooperation with the Black Shores upon first setting foot on the island through an invitation.

So far, he has provided the Black Shores with a wealth of intelligence and helped them recruit trustworthy candidates to bolster their Think Tank.

He will aid the Black Shores in putting together their plans… Until that person returns.

Wind Chimes

A seemingly inconspicuous bone flute that is, in fact, a tape recorder that Aalto has owned since he was a child. Aalto carries it with him on various occasions, and this small device has gathered a substantial amount of valuable intelligence for him.

Intelligence Network

Aalto is a master at building connections and gathering information. He sees everyone as a potential asset in his intelligence network, making business cards highly valued. True friends are rare, but Aalto knows the key to success lies in knowing more people.

Vintage Console

A retro-style gaming console. This console may only offer simple, old-school pixel games, but it ignited the competitive spirit within Aalto and Encore. Both of them have been trying to seize every opportunity to secretly play and outdo each other’s high scores on the console. However, for Aalto, the greatest joy comes from having his own records surpassed.

Character Voicelines

Thoughts: I

Being a broker such as myself, it is essential to establish good relationships to maintain a stable customer base. You still have some uncertainties about this world, it seems. We should really establish a connection, you know? If there’s ever anything you wish to know in the future, I’ll make sure you receive the best price for my services.

Thoughts: II

Since we’re buddies now, here’s some quick business tips. Like they say in Huanglong, “your sweet deal might be someone else’s poison.” It’s all about perspective. You can sell the same intel for different prices depending on who you’re selling to. Just a little bit of spin and you’ve got yourself a high-paying customer. Hmm? Nuh-uh, that’s not lying! I’d like to call it reasonable strategy in meeting various demands.

Thoughts: III

Being “popular” attracts wealth… and sometimes unwanted attention. You get the occasional oddball who tries to push for a deal. Well, special customers call for special measures. If only all of ’em were as chill to talk to as you.

Thoughts: IV

Info brokers love to play games with their words. You can’t just believe everything they say, but you can’t ignore them either. It’s like trying to see through fog, but if you put in the effort, you’ll uncover real gems hidden beneath their half-truths. But with me, it’s easy. You know me, I’ve always been honest with you, buddy.

Thoughts: V

I’ve been told I’m all about networking, not real friendships. Well, can’t say I’d deny that. I don’t want anything getting in the way of my judgment, so I tend to keep things strictly business with everyone. But now, I guess you’re different. You always are. You have a way of swaying my decisions just by being around, as my friend or not.

Aalto’s Hobby

In our line of work, being too buddy-buddy with people and exposing weaknesses is a big no-no. Hmm… I can’t say ‘No’ to you, I guess. I don’t have anything in particular for hobbies, just some little mist tricks to give everyone a good laugh from time to time.

Aalto’s Trouble

With everything in this world so unpredictable, why sweat yourself all the time? When you’re feeling gloomy, just hit me up. I’ll get you straightened out, no strings attached.

Favorite Food

Encore’s Coral Bowl looks weird, but it sure tastes great. It practically dissolves on your tongue and leaves a nice, mellow flavor. You should give it a try. C’mon, what’s up with the side eye? You’ve got to trust me on this one. The stuff may look like coral, but it’s completely harmless, really.

Disliked Food

You know how some people make all kinds of excuses for their poor decisions? Take my old man, for example, pointing the finger at booze for his messed up life. Better stay away from things that numb your mind, don’t you agree?

Ideals

To live free as the mist and enjoy life while it lasts. Sounds wonderful, doesn’t it?

Chat: I

Hmm, curious about what this is? Nope—not a bone flute, it’s a tape recorder. Funny little devices like this always come in handy in a pinch. Why don’t we get you some next time?

Chat: II

Believe it or not but when I was young, our house was like a revolving door for debt collectors, thanks to my dad’s gambling habit. Boy, did I hate my life having to put up with it all back then. So hey, don’t you think your poor buddy deserves a few extra clients, after everything he’s been through?

About Encore

Sometimes not even I can figure out just where Encore’s getting all that energy from. As soon as we arrive somewhere, she’s off making friends and sharing stories with the local kids in no time. I even got some of my intel from her buddies, believe it or not.

About Jiyan

Being the Jinzhou Garrison’s General is no walk in the park. You gotta have that big-picture thinking, be on top of everything, and make decisions like they’re nothing. Just take a look at General Jiyan—he’s got all those boxes checked off and then some.

About Chixia

Oh, Miss Chixia. Our first convo didn’t go quite as planned. I was doing some business in Jinzhou at the time, then she tried to arrest me, probably thought I was some crook. Lucky for me we worked it out later.

About Yangyang

Miss Yangyang? We haven’t talked much, but the way she can tap into the “Streams” for intel is definitely something. As someone in the information game, that really sounds handy. I should see if she’s interested in being my informant.

About Baizhi

Hmm… Seems unlikely she’ll ever be my client. She’s the type of person to trust the conclusions from her own research over information provided by anyone else.

About Mortefi

The Academy’s red-haired international research fellow? I heard he’s got a way of handling difficult clients. Actually… I was thinking about asking him for some pointers.

About Calcharo

I always enjoy doing business with a Ghost Hound. They keep things clean, They’re straightforward, and they don’t goof around.

About Verina

That little girl from Rigg’s Explorers? Yeah, I bumped into her once, back in the New Federation. Offered me a Starflower for the whereabouts of her mother. But the deal fell through, because she didn’t have what I was asking for. And what was that, you ask? Well… I asked for a never-withering flower. In reply, she told me plants have their life cycle, and wilting is just a natural part of it. I remember telling her, “The same can be said for humans.”

Birthday Wishes

Heya! Happy Birthday, my most special patron! Got you a custom-made mist-maker. It may not look like much, but all you have to do is give it a little twist to have mists of all shapes and sizes… And Voila! Here’s a kitten for ya, how’d you like it? Now whenever you’re feeling down, just turn your troubles into mist and watch them fade away.

Idle: I

Credibility in the name, and customer satisfaction is the game.

Idle: II

I never miss out on a good deal.

Idle: III

Here’s a flower for ya.

Self-Introduction

Howdy! I’m Aalto, your go-to information broker. I’ve got all the info you need at fair prices. Knowledge about different places is key to staying ahead while you’re out and about. Interested in a quote?

Greeting

G’day. What does our loyal client wish to inquire about today?

Join Team: I

Any detail along the way could become valuable intel.

Join Team: II

Nice pick! You won’t regret choosing Aalto’s service.

Join Team: III

It’s go time! You’ll have my mist for escort.

Ascension: I

Whew—I can make more mist now. Thanks, I’ll offer you something extra next time.

Ascension: II

Hmm? You never fail to impress. My mist can reach even further now. Sweet! And that’ll be another intel on the house for ya!

Ascension: III

Now I can switch between any kind of mist as I please. Much appreciated, bud! If you need anything, just ask away. I’ll do my best to oblige!

Ascension: IV

Whoa, talk about sincerity. I’ll make this worth your while, of course. My mist will be with you at all times, you can trust me to have your back.

Ascension: V

Say, buddy, we should probably take care of those bills you owe me. Let’s see here… Hmm, you know what? I actually made a good chunk of change from the intel you asked for, so why don’t we just call it even? Swing by anytime and let’s do more business!

Resonance Skill: I

Hey, over here!

Resonance Skill: II

Phew. In the nick of time.

Resonance Skill: III

How’s that for a magic trick?

Forte: I

You blink, you miss.

Forte: II

Better keep up.

Forte: III

Thanks for watching!

Resonance Liberation: I

Let the bullets fly!

Resonance Liberation: II

Bang! Pleasure doing business!

Resonance Liberation: III

Lost in the mist of time.

Hit: I

Can’t we just talk this out?

Hit: II

Easy there.

Hit: III

Whoa. Getting serious are ya?

Injured: I

Just a scratch.

Injured: II

Running out of mist.

Injured: III

Time to bring out my A-game.

Fallen: I

The mist never fades…

Fallen: II

Don’t worry… Just a trick of the eye…

Fallen: III

Time for tactical retreat.

Echo Summon

Mind if I borrow this?

Echo Transform

Be right back!

Intro & Outro Skills

Count me in!

Enemies Near

We’ve got company.

Glider

Wow. Ain’t that a view?

Grapple

*Effort Sound*

Sensor

Seems like a new lead.

Dash

*Effort Sound*

Wall Dash

*Effort Sound*

Supply Chest: I

Well, would you look at that! Easy money.

Supply Chest: II

Now, that’s a total steal.

Supply Chest: III

Aaand… What’s inside mystery box No. 01!?