Rhy Shen

Origins

*at the beginning of the Rhy Shen saga 117 aS

Rhy Shen's origins remain shrouded in mystery; thus, he recalls being cast into the Ether as punishment for his previous life. Rather than remaining there for a millennium, the first Sphere opened by Bo Yang pulled him from the Ether to Teel in the year 117 aS.

Condition

As far at it is known, Rhy Shen's fragile physical condition is permanent and unreversable. Though he cannot interact with objects heavier than fabric or fine dust, Rhy Shen's bodily presence is unmistakable. Light objects—an apron, thin paper, or fragile cloth—respond to his touch, while massive matter treats him as nothing more than a passing breeze. This half-real existence isolates him from the physical world, yet expands his consciousness into realms of being unseen by ordinary entities.

• Rhy Shen does not feel hunger, though he is capable of swallowing meals.
• He is untouched by flames, unlike the Juru pyro experts, who get burned regularly but resist damage through rapid wound healing.
• The only known object responding to his touch is the divine orb he brought with him from the Ether, which is later crafted into the Void Hammer .
• Instead of spilling Athem when hit, Rhy Shen's body absorbs Athem from other living souls even when he is taking damage.
• He cannot be harmed by physical attacks, but magical strikes infused with concentrated Athem disrupt his very existence.

Personality

Despite the profound loneliness of his condition, Rhy Shen remains relentlessly curious and audacious, a true provocateur in every sense. He delights in stirring conflict, exposing flaws, and dismantling assumptions with surgical precision, treating every interaction as a battlefield of wit. Clever, unpredictable, and unapologetically bold, he thrives on pushing boundaries and provoking both allies and enemies alike.

Mentorship

The cultivation training following his arrival in Teel is mentored by Alchemist Thos .- Unknowingly to Thos, Rhy Shen is guided by another mentor who inherits his speech bug through Ishi Mirror technology. The mysterious other mentor calls himself "M".