"Members joined during the post-leaderless era, a transitional period marked by the emergence of institutions, hierarchies, and procedures within the Strays. As this era bridges the gap between the Leaderless Era and the Centralization Era, it reflects a blend of both structures. Consequently, these members benefited from the unique advantages of a semi-centralized, semi-decentralized system."
- Zhou Xiaotong: Zhou Xiaotong is a physically imposing and intellectually formidable figure, standing at 6'2" with a toned, fair-skinned frame and a calm, handsome demeanor. A master anatomist and skilled surgeon, he works closely with the Strays as an independent ally, known for his discipline, strategic insight, and aversion to supernatural powers—relying instead on ancient Eastern relics and scientific precision. Xiaotong's deep understanding of biology, particularly human anatomy and physiology, shapes a rigid ideology rooted in biological essentialism. He views the human body as a machine designed for reproduction, believing any deviation from this function—such as homosexuality or transgender identities—to be pathological disruptions to the natural order. His ideology prioritizes the species over the individual, advocating for the preservation of an "optimal gene pool" and reproductive efficiency. Guided by a cold utilitarian logic, he sees such "deviations" as threats to human development and survival, and justifies their removal with the same surgical detachment he applies in the operating room. Though heroic and admirable in skill and discipline, Xiaotong's worldview is ultimately a harsh, morally contentious extrapolation of his anatomical expertise—scientifically grounded, yet deeply exclusionary.
- Tao Bojing: Tao Bojing is a 14-year-old Chinese boy, standing 5'10", with fair skin, a slim build, and smooth features. He initially worked as a field operative for An Guihui, a large Chinese-founded organization of former slaves opposing the Mikhland Empire. Idealistic, expressive, empathetic, and caring, Tao was deeply committed to his duty and loyal to the group's cause. During his time with An Guihui, he entered a romantic relationship with a fellow member. The two shared a passionate bond, but it ended abruptly when she told Tao he was no longer suitable for her. Feeling betrayed and manipulated, Tao reacted with anger—demanding the return of gifts, lashing out in an emotional outburst, and attempting to defame her. Her new partner, a lesbian, harshly criticized Tao and physically assaulted him in defense. Tao's further attempts to discredit her backfired when a senior member—secretly harboring feelings for his ex-girlfriend—intervened and convinced the group to ostracize Tao for "disrupting cohesion and harmony." Frustrated and alienated, Tao left An Guihui, even threatening to join a so-called "rogue group" despised by them: The Strays. His threats were ignored. Alone and aimless, he took on guild missions ranging from low to high difficulty to support himself. He also continued refining his musical skills, particularly the flute and violin. However, still haunted by his past, Tao began actively cooperating with Mikhland forces to hunt down former slave groups—especially An Guihui. Eventually, the group marked him for elimination. Realizing the danger, Tao abandoned the campaign and fled, living in isolation deep within a forest. There, by chance, he encountered Aldo and Zihao of The Strays. Recognizing both a rival to An Guihui and an opportunity, Tao immediately joined their ranks. The Strays, known for their reformist ideals in contrast to An Guihui's revolutionary stance, welcomed him—especially Aldo, who saw value in Tao's field experience and musical talents. An Guihui responded by sending a teenage assault team led by a senior female operative, but Aldo decisively defeated them, ending that threat. From that point, Tao began rebuilding himself. He overcame his emotional baggage, honed his musical mastery, and strengthened his fieldcraft. Under Aldo's guidance in evolutionary psychology, Zihao's teachings in philosophy, and Joon-soo's spiritual insights, Tao matured—becoming more stoic, realistic, cautious, and emotionally stable. He also gained physical strength through Aldo's strict supervision of his diet and sleep, which he resented but eventually appreciated for its positive impact. Despite his growth, the shadow of An Guihui still looms, who now view him as a traitor. His conflict with them remains unresolved… and ongoing.