Taoqi Ascension Materials and Skills

Taoqi is the director of border defense at the Ministry of Development. Despite her seemingly laid-back demeanor, she consistently proves to be a dependable and supportive individual, always lending her hand to those in need. Taoqi is not only a reliable colleague, but also a trustworthy friend that people can confide in.

Upgrade Cost

Skill Upgrade Cost

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

• 25 LF Howler Core
• 28 MF Howler Core
• 40 HF Howler Core
• 57 FF Howler Core
• 25 Waveworn Residue 210
• 28 Waveworn Residue 226
• 55 Waveworn Residue 235
• 67 Waveworn Residue 239
• 26 Dreamless Feather
• 2,030,000 Shell Credits

Ascension and Level Cost

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

• 4 LF Howler Core
• 12 MF Howler Core
• 12 HF Howler Core
• 4 FF Howler Core
• 46 Gold-Dissolving Feather
• 60 Iris
• 170,000 Shell Credits

Skills

Normal Attack: Concealed Edge

Basic Attack

Perform up to 4 consecutive attacks, dealing Havoc DMG.

Heavy Attack

Consume Stamina to deal Havoc DMG.

Hold Basic Attack to enter Rocksteady Defense.

Rocksteady Defense

– Taoqi’s damage taken is reduced by 35%;

– When Taoqi is attacked during Rocksteady Defense, she will cast Strategic Parry;

– Strategic Parry is automatically cast after Rocksteady Defense lasts for 3s;

If Taoqi is attacked when casting Resonance Skill Fortified Defense, Strategic Parry is automatically cast.

Strategic Parry

Attack the target, dealing Havoc DMG.

Mid-Air Attack

Consume Stamina to perform a Plunging Attack while in mid-air, dealing Havoc DMG.

Dodge Counter

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

Resonance Skill: Fortified Defense

Taoqi deals Havoc DMG to surrounding targets, generating 3 Rocksteady Shield and healing herself.

If attacked when casting Fortified Defense, Strategic Parry will be automatically cast.

Rocksteady Shield

When the active character on the team is attacked, 1 Rocksteady Shield is consumed to reduce the damage taken.

Resonance Liberation: Unmovable

Launch an attack based on Taoqi’s DEF to the target, dealing Havoc DMG.

Intro Skill: Defense Formation

Attack the target, dealing Havoc DMG.

Outro Skill: Iron Will

The incoming Resonator has their Resonance Skill DMG Amplified by 38% for 14s or until they are switched out.

Forte Circuit: Power Shift

Timed Counters

When carrying “Resolving Caliber”, use Basic Attack after Heavy Attack Strategic Parry or Intro Skill Defense Formation to cast Timed Counters, performing up to 3 consecutive attacks, dealing Havoc DMG, considered as Basic Attack damage.

Timed Counters consume 1 “Resolving Caliber” upon hitting an enemy to grant a shield.

After casting the Intro Skill Defense Formation, use Basic Attack to directly cast Timed Counters.

Resolving Caliber

Taoqi can hold up to 3 Resolving Caliber.

Basic Attack 4 will consume all of Taoqi’s “Rocksteady Shields” to grant that many “Resolving Caliber”.

While Rocksteady Shield exists, when the active character is attacked, 1 “Rocksteady Shield” will be consumed to recover “Resolving Caliber”.

After Rocksteady Shield ends, all remaining “Rocksteady Shield” will be consumed to grant that many “Resolving Caliber”.

Inherent Skill: Steadfast Protection

While Resonance Skill Rocksteady Shield lasts, the Character’s DEF is increased by 15%.

Inherent Skill: Unyielding

After Heavy Attack Strategic Parry is successfully triggered, 25 Stamina is recovered.

Inherent Skill: Skillful Cooking

Has a chance to produce special dishes when cooking

Stat Bonus: Havoc DMG Bonus+

Havoc DMG Bonus increased by 1.80%.

Stat Bonus: DEF+

DEF increased by 2.28%.

Stat Bonus: DEF+

DEF increased by 2.28%.

Stat Bonus: Havoc DMG Bonus+

Havoc DMG Bonus increased by 1.80%.

Stat Bonus: Havoc DMG Bonus+

Havoc DMG Bonus increased by 4.20%.

Stat Bonus: DEF+

DEF increased by 5.32%.

Stat Bonus: DEF+

DEF increased by 5.32%.

Stat Bonus: Havoc DMG Bonus+

Havoc DMG Bonus increased by 4.20%.

Resonance Chain

Sequence Node 1: Essense of Tranquility

Forte Circuit Power Shift’s Shield is increased by 40%.

Sequence Node 2: Silent Strength

The Crit. Rate and Crit. DMG of Resonance Liberation Unmovable is increased by 20% and 20%, respectively.

Sequence Node 3: Keen-eyed Observer

The duration of Resonance Skill Rocksteady Shield is extended to 30s.

Sequence Node 4: Heavylifting Duty

When Taoqi successfully triggers Heavy Attack Strategic Parry, she restores 25% HP and increases her DEF by 50% for 5s. This can be triggered once every 15s.

Sequence Node 5: Benevolent Guardian

The damage of Forte Circuit Power Shift is increased by 50%. When Forte Circuit Power Shift hits a target, restore 20 Resonance Energy.

Sequence Node 6: Defender of Peace

The damage of Taoqi’s Basic Attack and Heavy Attack is increased by 40% while the Shield granted by Resonance Skill Rocksteady Shield holds.

Backstory

Forte Examination Report

Resonance Power

Blossom of Slashes

Resonance Examination Report

Evaluation Basis: [Resonance Assessment 2083-G]

Resonator Taoqi experienced her Forte-Awakening 3 years ago, with no identifiable triggering event.

Resonator Taoqi’s Tacet Mark is located in the interscapular region. Post-Awakening observations have not found any notable physical changes. Tests indicate that Taoqi’s skin possesses a heightened level of toughness compared to the average individual.

She possesses the ability to generate a unique force field, creating a protective barrier to shield herself and others from potential harm.

Taoqi’s Resonance Spectrum Pattern shows no resemblance to known samples. The cause of her Awakening remains unknown.

Analysis of test samples has revealed a non-convergent Rabelle’s Curve with a stable rise. Occasional fluctuations within normal range have been detected. Therefore, Taoqi is classified as a Natural Resonator. The waveform graph for Resonator Taoqi displays stable sinusoidal fluctuations in the Time Domain with no abnormal patterns. Upon examination, all results fall within normal parameters.

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

There is no recorded history of Overclocking for Resonator Taoqi. Routine examinations are recommended, while psychological counseling is currently deemed unnecessary.

Prisoner’s Dilemma

“Did you hear? That new Director at the Ministry of Development’s Defense Division doesn’t let anything get past her!” This rumor spread quickly through Jinzhou, soon becoming the city’s hot topic.

The Ministry of Development ordered a batch of materials intended for the construction of a new defense line, but one container was filled with unlabeled, subpar goods. To complicate the matter even more, the batch had three different manufacturers, none willing to take responsibility for the defect.

“Director Taoqi, you have to help us sort this out. The Ministry of Development can’t just accuse innocent people!”

The three representatives said, their voices growing louder in an attempt to attract more attention.

Taoqi calmly navigated through the commotion, while softly putting off the noisy representatives. “Alright, alright, I understand,” even though she wasn’t really paying attention to their complaints. She then crouched down to inspect the unlabeled container. After examining a few pieces of materials for a while, Taoqi seemed to have an idea. In a casual tone, she turned to the three representatives and said, “But it seems one of you is lying. Or perhaps, all three of you are.”

After that, Taoqi and her junior, Xiaoyu, discreetly visited three manufacturing factories. They gathered clues about the machinery, transportation routes used that evening, and delivery schedules. With this information, Taoqi was able to solve the puzzle and ensure those who had been deceitful would face consequences.

Within days, rumors spread throughout the city. One of the three representatives was interrogated by Director Taoqi of the Ministry of Development. Then, news surfaced about another representative being caught, followed by the final one. Eventually, Jinzhou News broke a story revealing their collusion in supplying substandard materials. The public was left stunned, while only Taoqi and Xiaoyu knew the truth.

“I know! It-it’s the typical prisoner’s dilemma! You brought one of them in for a ‘private talk’ first, then you made sure the other two knew what happened. All of this was meant to put pressure on them so they’d betray and tell on each other, right? But how did you know they were all lying?”

“People can lie, but machines can’t. Each factory has its unique machine specifications. The answer was already clear when I examined those materials. Oh well… it did cost me several lunch breaks.” Taoqi complained as she pulled her sleep mask down, determined to make up for those lost breaks.

Taoqi’s Tempo

“Ugh… another workday.”

With a reluctant sigh, Taoqi struggled to crawl out of her cozy cocoon of blankets, setting her eyes on the slowly rising sun over Jinzhou. For her, it marked the beginning of another ordinary day.

The streets were bustling with breakfast stalls and the working crowd was already queuing up. Some left money and snatched a bag of buns in a hurry to get to work. No need for stall owners to raise their voices, everyone was eager for a quick bite before heading off.

Jinzhou, after a good night’s rest, sprang to life again.

Amidst the bustling crowd, Taoqi emerged at a leisurely pace. Her sleep mask was still worn on her forehead, and she was yawning from time to time, looking as if she hadn’t fully woken up yet.

“Hmm… which line should I join?”

Rubbing her eyes, Taoqi sized up each stall and silently counted, “Three, two, one…”

Upon completing her counting, the person at the front of the queue left with a bag of freshly baked buns in hand.

Taoqi seemed to be counting the time needed to steam buns at each stall. After checking the time and the number of people in the queues, she made her decision.

“Hmm… Great. Bet I won’t be late today.”

Taoqi gently tapped one hand against the other on a tempo to track the time. As the queue inched forward, she noticed that her tempo of “three, two, one” was slightly ahead of the queue’s progress.

“Oh? Looks like I might not make it on time, after all.”

Taoqi was determined to clock in on time, but her counting didn’t match the queue’s progress. She checked her tapping speed and confirmed it was accurate. Was the stall owner slowing down? She cautiously observed them, their hands moving in a blur. Confused, she couldn’t figure out the reason for the inconsistency. Time was ticking, and she really needed to get to work on time.

“I see. This must be the issue?”

After a while, her attention was drawn to a child’s pinwheel and then back to the stove, where a large hole allowed the wind to spread the fire. But the vendor didn’t seem to notice.

Taoqi left the queue, grabbed a box, and shielded the fire from the wind.

“Excuse me, young lady, what are you doing?”

“Just trying to not be late!”

Taoqi explained with a satisfied grin as she returned to her original place in the queue. However, it seemed she would have to queue up again.

“Oh my, I’m definitely going to be late now.”

Taoqi’s Time

Despite Taoqi’s lazy appearance, as if she could nod off anytime, Taoqi is consistently flawless in all she does.

“Do you think Ms. Taoqi has fallen asleep again?” New recruits at the Ministry of Development frequently share these doubts. In such situations, colleagues who are familiar with Taoqi always assure them that she is indeed a very dependable leader.

“Ms. Taoqi, I’m sorry to bother you, but I’ve been trying to optimize this construction plan for quite a while, yet I’m still stumped…” In her spare time, Taoqi often finds herself caught by young colleagues seeking her advice.

“Hmm… it’s getting late. Let’s call it a day for now. Let’s go for a walk. I heard there’s a new restaurant with great food. Want to check it out?”

“Uh, p-pardon please?” Her Juniors often struggle to keep up with her abrupt topic changes.

Taoqi rarely tells anyone what to do. She believes in letting people work it out themselves.

She brought her bewildered junior to a busy street market, the same one she helped improve for easier community access and better city planning. Taoqi urged him to observe everything on their stroll: the sights, sounds, and tastes of the street. She explained that by paying attention to the locals and their conversations, they could uncover hidden issues that really needs addressing. The junior thanked Taoqi with a grateful smile, having realized her intention. Taoqi smiled warmly in return.

Taoqi is everyone’s “reliable big sister”, both in work and in everyday life.

“Ms. Taoqi, please…”

A certain storage space, once Taoqi’s private nap haven, has been transformed into a comfortable “chat room” with a cozy sofa, perfect table, and delicious tea. Her junior colleagues now often come for her consultation during their free time.

Taoqi lounged lazily on the sofa, listening patiently to her juniors as they opened up about their worries.

“You know what? The housing prices here have risen again!”

“Indeed it has.”

“Gotta work harder to repay the mortgage, but the thought of this stresses me out so much. I feel deflated…”

“Same here…”

“Sigh… Time flies by so fast. It’s about time to go back to work…”

Perhaps this chatroom’s popularity simply stems from it being a place for young people to spill their troubles and find solace in each other.

As for Taoqi, she only needs to be a patient listener, understanding their worries and offering advice when appropriate to gently lighten their burdens.

Reunion with Friends

Taoqi endured unfounded ill wills for her slowness as a child. But luckily, she met some friends who accepted and defended her.

Growing up, they were inseparable. But as adults, their paths diverged. The eldest joined the Midnight Rangers and is now stationed on the frontlines; the second became a teacher in a remote town, nurturing the next generation; the youngest became a travel writer who is constantly on the go.

Despite their different careers, they always come back to their hometown. Taoqi, the second youngest of the group who stayed in Jinzhou, is their go-to for meetups and farewells.

As they wait for her one more time, someone brings up her name and catches the attention of other diners. It seems she’s quite well-known here.

“Oh really? Are you talking about Ms. Taoqi?”

“I thought Ms. Taoqi had always been a laid-back person?”

“Yeah, it’s true. But she’s changed a lot since she was little! Remember how she used to follow us around everywhere? Now, she seems so chill all the time. It’s crazy. She used to get lost and cry about being left behind.”

“She was even bullied…”

“Really? I can’t believe Ms. Taoqi went through that…”

“Haha, bet you can’t. And that’s when we, her dear friends, stepped in. We kicked some serious butt for her!”

“Wow… what did Ms. Taoqi do, then?”

“Erm… She provided backup? Like, telling their parents, negotiating compensation and stuff.”

“She had a sharp eye for gathering useful information… like she could quickly identify the weaknesses of the people we were up against.”

“Oh well… She was like a little sister to me. I always tried to protect her, but one day I learned she had been quietly protecting us all along with her wisdom and sharp eye. It hit me right in the feels.”

“She’s grown a lot. Though she still does everything slowly, she seems more confident now.”

“Wow, that’s so Ms. Taoqi! I knew she was always trustworthy!”

“Huh? Weren’t we trying to tell you a different side of her?”

The old friends all burst out in laughter.

“Whew, good afternoon, everyone. What were you all talking about? Having a good chat, I see.”

“We’ve been waiting for you. Overslept your nap again, huh? You’ll have to treat us for being late to this precious reunion!”

“We were talking about you…”

Taoqi sat down, groggily rubbing her eyes,”Is that something fun? Tell me all about it.”

Work-life Balance

Work is work and life is life; maintaining a clear boundary between the two is essential for everything to function.

Taoqi has always lived by this principle, and nothing in Jinzhou can stop her from leaving work on time.

The Ministry of Development is a busy place, people constantly coming and going, rushing through their tasks. In the midst of chaos, Taoqi’s soft voice can always calm the storm. Amidst flipping papers, it brings peace and slows the pace.

“It’s quitting time. Time to head home.”

“Please wait a moment, Ms. Taoqi. We have a newly issued document that requires your attention.”

“Well, let me take a look… Doesn’t seem urgent. I’ll deal with it tomorrow.”

After work, Taoqi has her unique way of “relaxation”. For her, “relaxation” can come in various forms — from a good sleep to a casual stroll.

As Taoqi walks home, she enjoys strolling through the streets of Jinzhou and chatting with its residents. She loves hearing stories from elders about the city’s history and having lighthearted conversations with children that remind her of the hope within Jinzhou. This way of relaxation helps her become better connected to the city she lives in and also contributes to her work.

Once in the past, the Midnight Rangers were always struggling to defend against surprise attacks from the Tacet Discords. With such extensive frontlines, it was nearly impossible to detect every breach and they were constantly vulnerable. So, they turned to Taoqi for help.

Feeling stressed and overwhelmed, Taoqi took a break on a swing nearby. As she watched children playing in a sandpit, an idea came to her – just like how they filled the gaps in their sandcastles, they could also fill the gaps in the frontlines. She proposed building a sand wall at the frontline during Tacet Discord assaults. This would shorten the frontlines and limit the attack paths for the enemy. With fewer spots to defend, the Midnight Rangers would have more time to assess each attack and respond accordingly based on the varying frequencies caused by sand deformation. Thanks to Taoqi’s clever thinking, they were able to better protect themselves against attacks and gain some much-needed breathing room on the frontlines.

According to Taoqi, staring at a desk all day leads to monotony and disconnect from reality. So she seeks alternative methods for efficiency. It’s in her free time that she stumbles upon unexpected guidance and inspiration through serendipitous encounters.

Guardian Wall Model

“The weight of Jinzhou is far beyond what a model can carry, but you can feel the weight of guarding Jinzhou up close by purchasing a Guardian Wall model.”

The Ministry of Development partnered with a toy company to create this model, rumored to be a limited first edition obtained personally by Taoqi from a revered toy mogul.

Jinzhou Strategies

The data module for Terminal loading contains Taoqi’s observations and thoughts on Jinzhou, from her childhood musings to her current decisions to protect the city. Every detail has been meticulously documented in this small but powerful device. Perhaps one day, it will alter the fate of Jinzhou.

Peachy Turtle

Taoqi always longs to catch a nice, peaceful nap during her free time. The soft and plush Peachy Turtle becomes her haven, a paradise that washes away all fatigue accumulated from work. “If I could live a slow-paced life just like the Peachy Turtle, and still be a reliable support for everyone, that would be perfect.”

Character Voicelines

Thoughts: I

Take your time and enjoy the journey. Don’t hurry too much, or you may miss out on all the beautiful sights along the way. You don’t want to reach the end of the road with nothing to show for it. Hehe… Just some tips from someone who’s been there before.

Thoughts: II

I wasn’t slacking off, really. I just needed to recharge a little… Aww, you don’t believe me? Don’t say that. I’ll be so hurt.

Thoughts: III

It does get overwhelming with so many people counting on you. I know that feeling all too well… Worry not. You can relax a little more when you’re with me.

Thoughts: IV

Oh… I fell asleep? …Hehe, I guess your presence just made me feel that much more at ease. You should get more rest too, Rover. Staying up late too much could lead to hair loss.

Thoughts: V

The danger in the air is palpable nowadays. I guess that’s why you have come to our aid at a time like this. How unfortunate, I have been hoping to enjoy a peaceful life with you… Anyway. Rover, would you come a little closer? Let’s have some leisurely time together, even if only for a little while.

Taoqi’s Hobby

Had a great sleep. Ugh… time for work… Gotta get up… but… still ‘eepy… Just one more nap…

Taoqi’s Trouble

I am fully booked for afternoon consultings well into next year, and I heard someone is reselling bookings at high prices… I didn’t know it would spiral into this. Honestly, I don’t believe my input made much of a difference—in the end, it was up to themselves to solve their own issues.

Favorite Food

I’m all about the easy-to-eat stuff. Give me some creamy, savory porridge any day. Can you help me out with this spoonful? It’s a little bit too hot for my tongue.

Disliked Food

Hmm… food that requires peeling, I guess. Why? It’s too much hassle.

Ideals

I really hate working. That said, I’ve got to put in some effort now so one day I won’t have to work anymore. Haha, sure, I could just retire by myself if I want to… but I’m hoping to ease the load off of everyone else once and for all, so we can all enjoy a peaceful life together.

Chat: I

How do you like it here in Jinzhou? Enjoying your stay? It is my dream to make it a truly safe and cozy place to live, free from all the border city dangers.

Chat: II

In the past, my friends were always there for me, shielding me from harm. Their presence was steadfast like the city walls, providing me a great sense of security and comfort. That is why I am now driven to build stronger walls for all citizens of Jinzhou, so everyone can enjoy the same comfort and reassurance.

About Jinhsi

People think Lady Jinhsi is too young to lead, but I don’t see the problem. Her young age may be seen as a disadvantage, but it’s also her greatest strength. As we work on moving Jinzhou forward, she will go further and accomplish more than any of us can imagine.

About Sanhua

Oh, I wish I had someone like Sanhua. Imagine how much easier my work would be with her help. Where on earth did Lady Jinhsi find herself such an incredible bodyguard? I’ll have to ask her about it next time we meet.

About Xiangli Yao

Mr. Xiangli? Yes, he is a great collaborator of ours at the Ministry of Development. Our work partially overlaps with the Academy’s research projects, and I consult him daily. Despite his genius intellect and quick thinking, I have no issue keeping up with his ideas.

About Jiyan

General Jiyan’s schedule is always so impossibly tight… He seems to keep finding more issues to take care of, like a devoted parent who never allows himself any rest. Maybe it’s his doctor instincts, always putting others first. I really hope he can take some time off for his own well-being.

Birthday Wishes

It’s your birthday today. You should take a well-deserved rest. Let’s nap together, shall we? I’ve got the comfiest sleep gear just for you. Sweet dreams, and happy birthday, dear.

Idle: I

Perfect weather for a walk today… Hmm, maybe not…

Idle: II

More paperwork? Let’s see… *satisfied smile* All set. Now, what should I have for dinner?

Idle: III

Sometimes I pretend I was a cloud in the sky… Just drifting by as a soft and fluffy pile, without any worry.

Self-Introduction

Hi there, I’m Taoqi, in charge of border defense at the Ministry of Development. If you need my help, shoot me a message any time. I’ll get back to you during work hours.

Greeting

Time for another afternoon consultation, I see. What’s on your mind today?

Join Team: I

No need to rush. Everything will work out in due time.

Join Team: II

I’ll take good care of you.

Join Team: III

Time to work? *chuckle* No more lazing around, then.

Ascension: I

I feel so good right now, I’d say even better than when I just took a seven-day leave. Thank you for your help, Rover.

Ascension: II

My heart is beating faster, and I can hear my blood rushing… This newfound strength is making me feel a bit restless. Maybe I should go get some sleep.

Ascension: III

With more power comes more responsibility… I really don’t want more work, but if it’s you asking… I can do some overtime. Just a little.

Ascension: IV

Thank you. You’re so reliable, my darling little one. Hmm? You might have actually lived longer than me. Hehe… Now that I’m stronger than ever, I just want to take care of you like a big sister. Can’t you just let me?

Ascension: V

You have opened my eyes to things I’ve never noticed before. Safety isn’t found in one person building a “wall.” It comes from supporting each other, and cherishing shared moments. Thank you for always being here for me. If we could stay like this forever, I… Hmm? You didn’t catch that last sentence? Hehe, I’ll say it again for you, then…

Strategic Parry: I

*Effort Sound*

Strategic Parry: II

*Effort Sound*

Strategic Parry: III

*Effort Sound*

Strategic Parry: IV

*Effort Sound*

Strategic Parry: V

*Effort Sound*

Resonance Skill: I

I will protect.

Resonance Skill: II

Everyone, stand down.

Resonance Skill: III

Steady there.

Resonance Liberation: I

Attack is the best defense.

Resonance Liberation: II

Victory, guide my blade.

Resonance Liberation: III

This… is my ground!

Dodge Counter

Now… It’s my turn.

Hit: I

You got me there.

Hit: II

*pained sound*

Hit: III

Ugh, stay calm.

Injured: I

No biggie, just a scratch.

Injured: II

Time to focus.

Injured: III

It was my misstep…

Fallen: I

I couldn’t… protect…

Fallen: II

I wasn’t reliable enough…

Fallen: III

Retreat to the bulwark.

Echo Summon

Counting on you.

Echo Transform

How reliable.

Intro & Outro Skills

I got your back.

Enemies Near

Let’s watch out.

Glider

Wind in my aid.

Grapple

Now I’m moving fast.

Sensor

Hmm… Found something interesting.

Dash

Let’s take it slow.

Wall Dash

*Effort Sound*

Supply Chest: I

Excited for what’s inside? Hehe, aren’t you adorable.

Supply Chest: II

My luck seems good like always.

Supply Chest: III

The more the merrier.