Royal Academy of Science of Khaenri’ah Project: Black Serpents - Windcutter Initiative Research Log #001 Lead Researcher: [Name Redacted] Date: 22/13/1459
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Initial Development & Purpose:
The Black Serpents were developed as an elite autonomous soldier unit, designed to operate with both precision and agility. Unlike traditional automatons, these units were engineered with an Anemo-powered framework, enhancing both their mobility and adaptability in combat. Their purpose was twofold: eliminate high-priority threats and engage fortified adversaries, particularly those utilizing defensive shielding techniques. The development of the Windcutter Variant introduced a novel blade manipulation system, allowing for increased offensive versatility. These units were not only capable of wielding swords with expert-level proficiency but could also launch spinning blade projectiles and perform whip-like slashes, overwhelming opponents with unrelenting speed.
Design & Functionality:
Anemo-Powered Combat System – The Windcutters utilize Anemo energy to enhance both mobility and offensive capabilities, ensuring rapid repositioning and attack execution. Adaptive Strike Mechanisms – The units execute both two- and three-strike blade combos, delivering high-impact Anemo-infused slashes. Against shielded opponents, Windcutters adapt by increasing attack speed and power. Blade Projection System – Equipped with Whirling Windblades, allowing the unit to launch multiple spinning sword projectiles before retracting them for further strikes. Tactical Maneuvers & Countermeasures – When an attack is fully absorbed by an enemy’s shield, the unit sacrifices 15% of its current vitality to gain a temporary power buff and the ability to blink-evade the next incoming strike. Swiftwind Arsenal – The unit can generate and fire six projectile seekers, tracking and overwhelming enemies from a distance.
Strategic Deployment & Weaknesses:
Windcutters were assigned to high-security divisions of Khaenri’ah’s military forces, serving as elite guards of the monarchy and strategic enforcers. Each was trained—or rather, programmed—with an advanced sword art known as "Truthseeker," emphasizing precise, relentless strikes. However, the design carries inherent risks. Their reliance on Anemo energy leaves them susceptible to disruption when their power flow is interrupted. Additionally, their aggressive counter-shield tactics result in self-inflicted energy loss, making prolonged engagements costly.
Operational History & Legacy:
Records suggest that these warriors once stood alongside the Twilight Sword, with some of their number lost to history following the collapse of Khaenri’ah. Surviving units were later encountered in the ruins of The Chasm and other forgotten battlegrounds, their programming still compelling them to fight for a kingdom that no longer exists. Some Windcutters bear distinct designations, such as: Edgetho, Breaker of the Oath of Silence Buliwyf, Guardian of the Desolation Rethel, Slain of the Split Bow Ynghildr, Sword of a Lost Homeland Despite their fractured directives, they remain fearsome warriors, remnants of a dying empire’s final stand.
End of Log.