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Vhai Canvas

Vhai (Visual Scripting Rhai) is ChaosNexus Forge's native, node-based programming interface. It allows users to orchestrate MCP workflows, string together native commands, and build complex agentic logic without writing a single line of code.

The Dual-View Paradigm

Vhai operates entirely on a Dual-View architecture. Behind every visual node graph is a raw, executable Rhai script running in the ChaosNexus Anvil backend.

Unlike traditional visual scripting engines that compile to obscure byte-code, or a proprietary language, Vhai offers a 1:1 bidirectional synchronization between the visual canvas and the underlying script:

  • Connect nodes: The Rhai code is instantly updated in real-time.
  • Write code: The visual graph instantly rebuilds itself to reflect the new logic.

TIP

Performance Optimization: For maximum efficiency, this real-time debounced sync only occurs when you are in split-pane mode. If you full-screen either the editor or the canvas, ChaosNexus Forge will fall back to a 5-second Safety Auto-Save to conserve processing power.

Node Catalog

Vhai nodes are strictly categorized by their functionality. The catalog is accessible via the node palette or the context menu:

  • Events: Triggers that initiate logic execution (e.g., on_plugin_start).
  • Control Flow: Branches, loops, and logic gates (If, While, For).
  • Variables: Setters and getters for scoped and global variables.
  • Native APIs: Direct access to ChaosNexus Anvil's embedded functionality (e.g., HTTP, Database, FS).
  • MCP Mesh: Nodes representing connected remote MCP tools and resources.

Graph Anatomy

Exec Pins (White)

Execution flow is dictated by the white, arrow-shaped Exec Pins. These determine the order in which nodes are evaluated.

Data Pins (Colored)

Data pins pass values between nodes. Their colors map strictly to the underlying data type they represent, making it easy to identify required inputs at a glance:

  • String: Magenta
  • Integer: Cyan
  • Boolean: Red
  • Array: Yellow
  • Map: Blue

Assembly & Execution

When a Vhai graph is saved, it is compiled down into standard Rhai AST (Abstract Syntax Tree). This means a visual script runs at the exact same native speed as a handwritten script, with absolutely zero overhead.

To understand how ChaosNexus Anvil executes this AST at runtime, read the Vhai Execution Model documentation.