Overview
Raiden Mei is a central protagonist in Honkai Impact 3rd, known as the natural 3rd Herrscher of the Current Era and a member of the St. Freya team. Her story revolves around struggle with her powers, deep connections with other characters, and a journey from vulnerability to determination.
Appearance and Battlesuits
- Mei has long dark purple hair and indigo eyes; in Herrscher form, her hair becomes longer and she acquires red horns.
- In A Post-Honkai Odyssey, Mei’s appearance changes to a sleek suit with multi-colored feathers and gloves.
- Mei has multiple notable battlesuits, including Crimson Impulse, Valkyrie Bladestrike, Shadow Dash, Lightning Empress, Herrscher of Thunder, and Herrscher of Origin, each corresponding to significant story phases and powers.
Personality and Development
- Mei historically neglects her own feelings, becoming more guarded following her father’s arrest.
- She develops a caring and nurturing role, especially towards Kiana and her friends.
- Her Herrscher personality starts off cold and malicious but becomes kinder over time, especially in relation to Kiana.
- Mei's determination to protect Kiana leads her to become the Herrscher of Thunder and join World Serpent.
Key Relationships
- Kiana Kaslana: Mei’s first real friend who helps her overcome loneliness; their relationship is deep, with both protecting and caring for each other through adversity.
- Bronya Zaychik: Treated as a younger sister, Bronya’s actions and sacrifices deeply affect Mei.
- Durandal: Mei’s rivalry and subsequent cooperation with Durandal foster mutual respect.
- Raven: Starts as an adversary but grows into an uneasy ally; their relationship evolves with trust and collaboration.
- Elysia: Initial wariness turns into a strong bond as Mei learns the truth about Elysia's nature and history.
Background and History
- Born in Nagazora, Mei loses her mother early and endures trauma from kidnapping and therapy.
- Her privileged life ends when her father is falsely imprisoned, leading her to isolation and hardship.
- The awakening of her stigmata and the Honkai crisis thrust her into a world of violence and personal conflict.
- Mei’s journey from loneliness to acceptance is marked by friendship, betrayal, and growth, particularly in her bond with Kiana.
Major Story Events
- Escape from Nagazora: Mei’s Herrscher powers awaken amidst disaster, and Kiana’s persistence helps her regain control.
- Becoming a Valkyrie: She joins Schicksal, dealing with dangers posed by her Herrscher powers and a bomb implanted for safety.
- Fighting for Loved Ones: Mei faces loss, separation, and repeated tests of resolve while striving to protect friends, especially Kiana.
- Turning Point: Mei joins World Serpent, becoming the Herrscher of Thunder to save Kiana, symbolizing her acceptance of her powers and responsibility.
Trivia
- Mei’s family name, Raiden, references the Shinto god of thunder, aligning with her power theme in the series.