Disclaimer: I do not own the copyright for these two franchises. They belong to Square Enix and HoyoVerse respectively.
Kingdoms Hearts III.5: A Journey on Teyvat
Chapter 08: Questions and encounters
(Genshin Impact OST - Another Day in Mondstadt)
Night had fallen over Mondstadt, and the city, though still on alert, breathed in a new calm after the storm. The soft glow of lanterns lit up the cobbled streets, casting shifting shadows on the walls of houses and taverns. Sora, exhausted but satisfied, sat in a small inn tucked away in a quiet alley, just a few steps from the main square. He was seated by the window in his room, watching the city regain a semblance of peace after the attack of the Demon Tide.
The day's events still swirled in his mind. He remembered the chaos, the seemingly unstoppable Heartless, and that strange moment when the unknown figure appeared, shaking everything he thought he knew. Yet despite the lingering mysteries, one comforting fact remained: thanks to their intervention, Mondstadt had only suffered minor damage. Jean, with her natural sense of duty, had quickly taken command after the battle, coordinating the Knights of Favonius to help the townspeople, repair the few damages, and ensure that any further danger was kept at bay.
Lisa had stayed by her side, calm as always, assisting Jean in managing the aftermath swiftly and effectively.
Jean, ever observant, had noticed the fatigue weighing on Sora after all his efforts. Although he had tried to hide his exhaustion, he could no longer deny the weariness overcoming him. Jean had then insisted that he take some rest, not missing the chance to thank him once again for his invaluable help. It was Aether, with a reassuring smile, who had invited him to join him and Paimon at the inn where they were already staying. Sora had accepted, knowing that a few hours of rest would do him some good.
Sitting in the modest room, Sora let the nighttime sounds wash over him. The distant noise of the wind winding through the streets and the low murmurs of quiet conversations in the inn created a soothing atmosphere. He glanced out the window, looking over the rooftops of Mondstadt under the starlight, and felt a certain sense of relief.
Sora placed a hand on his chest, where earlier that day, the stranger had passed through him like a shadow. That strange sensation hadn't left his mind. Who was that mysterious figure? Why had he targeted him specifically? So many unanswered questions lingered...
A light knock at the door pulled him from his thoughts. It was Aether, accompanied by Paimon, who, as usual, seemed to be in a chatty mood.
Aether: Hey, Sora, you doing alright?
Paimon: You're not asleep yet? You should get some rest—you've earned it after everything that happened today!
Sora gave a tired smile and nodded. But even in the presence of his friends, the weight of the day's events and lingering mysteries still hung over him, refusing to let him find peace.
Sora: Oh, hey. Don't worry about me, I'll be going to sleep soon. It's just... I've got a lot on my mind.
Aether: About the Heartless attack? Yeah, that was pretty intense.
Sora: That's part of it. But...
His thoughts spun relentlessly around recent events. The Heartless, that stranger in a black coat… all of it brought back memories he would rather have left behind. The trials he had faced to defeat his former enemies—the Organization XIII and Xehanort—seemed so distant, but the return of this threatening figure reignited a deep worry within him.
Sora stared at the floor, his brows furrowed, lost in thought.
Sora: What if… it's all starting again? What if the members of the Organization are still out there, somewhere? I thought we put an end to all of that...
He clenched his fists, his expression dark. It was rare for him to get caught up in doubt, but this time, he couldn't shake the fear.
Aether, who had been watching his new friend for a few minutes, exchanged a look with Paimon. Though she was usually chatty, she remained quiet, noticing that Sora was caught in an inner storm. Aether took a deep breath and stepped forward gently, hoping to lighten the mood.
Aether: Sora… I can tell something's really bothering you. You don't have to keep it all to yourself, you know.
Paimon, floating beside him, nodded vigorously.
Paimon: Yeah, what's with the long face, Sora? Paimon don't like seeing you so worried.
Sora looked up, surprised by his friends' concern. A shy smile spread across his lips, but the worry still lingered.
Sora: Sorry… It's just that… today reminded me of things I thought I'd left behind. The Heartless showing up again, that stranger out of nowhere… It's all too similar to what I've been through before. I… I can't help but think maybe it's my fault all this trouble is happening.
Curious about what he had said, Aether and Paimon asked.
Aether: Sora? Why are you blaming yourself for everything that's happened? It's not your fault!
Paimon: Yeah, you couldn't have seen any of this coming. Why do you think it's because of you?
Sora looked up at them, hesitating for a moment before deciding to open up.
Sora: Oh yeah, I haven't really told you where I come from. Let me explain…
Sora then began recounting his life and adventures to Aether and Paimon. He explained how destiny had led him to become a young hero and the enemies he had to face—Ansem, Xemnas, Xehanort—names filled with darkness. As his story unfolded, Aether and Paimon listened in fascination, especially Aether. This was the first time since he arrived in Teyvat that he had met someone from another world, apart from his sister. Every detail of Sora's adventure captured their attention.
But when Sora spoke about the war he had fought against his enemies, the story took a darker turn. He told them of the terrible battles, the sacrifices, and how he had ultimately defeated Organization XIII. Yet that victory had come at a cost—the loss of the person dearest to him, Kairi.
Sora: So… now you know everything. We brought peace, but I lost someone important, someone I'm desperately trying to find… Kairi. That's why I came here, hoping she might be somewhere in this world.
He lowered his head slightly, his voice full of regret.
Sora: But after what happened today, I wonder if I've brought my problems with me. Maybe my presence here has disturbed Teyvat's peace. I… I don't want to go through those same battles again, especially if it means losing the people I care about all over again.
Paimon: Sora…
Usually so cheerful, Paimon couldn't help but feel a deep sadness. Hearing Sora's story, she immediately felt a sense of sympathy and deep respect for him. Knowing that he had triumphed over his enemies but at the cost of losing someone so dear tore at her heart. Sora didn't deserve such pain.
As for Aether, he remained unusually calm. Yet deep down, he felt the same as Paimon. Moreover, Aether felt great empathy for Sora. After hearing his story, it was clear to Aether that they were more alike than he could have imagined. Like two reflections of the same fate, leading different lives. And Sora's story was living proof of that. He finally spoke.
Aether: I'm sorry for what you've been through, Sora. I can only imagine how hard it must have been… being powerless and watching the person you care about most disappear right before your eyes.
Sora: Yeah... don't remind me...
Aether: Still, I think I might be one of the few who truly understands your pain.
Surprised by this statement, Sora looked at him curiously.
Sora: Really?
Aether: Yes, you've shared your story with us, Sora. Now… it's my turn to tell you mine.
It was now Aether's turn to share his story, and the similarities between his tale and Sora's were striking. Aether explained that he and his sister were travelers, also journeying from world to world, much like Sora. Their last journey had brought them to Teyvat, but a catastrophe had forced them to leave the world quickly. As they were preparing to depart for another destination, an unknown deity appeared, preventing their escape.
Aether continued, explaining how a battle had ensued between them and the deity. Despite their best efforts, they could not defeat it. To his great dismay, Aether had watched helplessly as his sister was taken away. Not only that, but the deity had also sealed away his original powers.
Aether: And just like that, the god took away my sister. Some kind of seal was cast upon me, and I lost my power. So while we used to travel from world to world, we are now trapped here.
Sora: Aether…
Paimon, who already knew this story, wasn't surprised. But for Sora, it was a different reaction. He had never imagined that someone else could have lived through tragedies so similar to his own.
Sora: I'm sorry… I was here, complaining without realizing you've gone through the same pain as me…
Aether: Don't worry about it. But I intend find out. When I woke, I wal all alone — until I met Paimon.
Paimon: Paimon remember! Luckily, he saved me from drowning, or Paimon wouldn't be here today. After that, well, you know the rest, Sora.
Aether: So, you don't have to suffer alone, Sora. I know what it's like to be haunted by enemies from the past. But this time, you won't have to face it by yourself. If something is coming, we can face it together.
Paimon also stepped forward, her voice softer than usual.
Paimon: That's right, Sora! You don't have to carry all this weight on your shoulders. We're here to help, just like you helped us. And one more thing, you don't have to feel responsible for all these problems. It's not you who caused all of this. These Heartless—they show up because they chase after the darkness, right? Not because you're here. They're the real villains.
Sora: Aether, Paimon...
Sora looked at them, touched by their support. He never wanted other worlds to suffer because of his own struggles, but now he felt a connection with Teyvat—and maybe a new chance to protect this world from the darkness that pursued him.
Sora: Thank you, both of you. I think… I needed to hear that. I'll do everything I can to protect Teyvat, just like I've done with other worlds.
Seeing Sora's spirits lift, Paimon smiled.
Paimon: That's more like the Sora we know!
The young Keyblade wielder gave a sincere smile. Despite his doubts, he knew he could count on his new friends to help him face whatever lay ahead. Now, Paimon suggested wrapping up the night.
Paimon: Well, after all these stories, Paimon think it's time to get some sleep! Tomorrow, we'll head to the Knights of Favonius headquarters to check in with Jean. What do you guys think?
Aether: Yeah, you're right.
Sora: I agree. I'm exhausted.
Paimon: Alright then, lights out for today!
(Genshin Impact OST - Knights of Favonius)
Sora, Aether, and Paimon didn't take long to settle in for the night, each lost in their thoughts. The weight of recent events still hung over them, but exhaustion eventually took over. By early morning, they were up, ready to head to the Knights of Favonius headquarters. The sun had just risen, casting a gentle golden light over the peaceful streets of Mondstadt. The trio made their way through the calm morning air and soon found themselves at the headquarters. Aether knocked softly on Jean's office door.
Jean: Come in!
They opened the door, and Paimon, as energetic as ever, greeted everyone in her usual loud voice.
Paimon: Good morning, everyone!
Inside, Jean sat at her desk, focused, while Lisa stood beside her. Amber and Kaeya were also there, speaking quietly. Seeing Amber and Kaeya, Sora couldn't help but smile as he walked straight over to them.
Sora: Amber! Kaeya! I'm so relieved to see you!
Hearing her name, Amber turned toward him with a big, bright smile.
Amber: Sora! I'm really glad to see you safe and sound!
Kaeya greeted him as well, his expression calm as always.
Kaeya: Good morning, Sora… Have you recovered well?
Sora: Well enough, though I still feel the fatigue coming in waves sometimes.
Kaeya: I don't doubt it. After everything you did yesterday, that's hardly surprising. I have to admit, you really impressed all of us.
Jean, as composed and kind as ever, stepped forward to greet everyone.
Jean: Sora, Aether, Paimon, thank you for coming. I was hoping to see you today.
Sora: Is everyone doing okay since the Heartless attack?
Amber replied with her usual energy.
Amber: Yeah, don't worry. Thanks to you, Sora, we managed to handle the invasion without too much damage.
Kaeya: We couldn't have hoped for a better outcome. With your help, the situation was under control faster than expected.
Sora: I'm glad to hear that. How did things go in Springvale after I left?
Amber: Thankfully, no one was seriously injured because of you. The village sustained some material damage, but nothing that can't be fixed.
Relieved to learn that there were no casualties, Sora still sighed, looking thoughtful.
Sora: I see... It's a shame we didn't arrive sooner. Maybe we could have prevented all that destruction.
Kaeya: No need to trouble yourself over that, Sora. Buildings can be rebuilt. Besides… our Acting Grand Master here has already taken the necessary steps to address the situation.
At Kaeya's remark, Sora turned his gaze toward Jean, who nodded, ready to respond.
Jean: Kaeya's right. After our fight with the Heartless yesterday, I went to assess the situation in Springvale myself. The village did suffer some damage from the Heartless, but I immediately ordered all available knights to prioritize the reconstruction. In addition, I've stationed a garrison of knights near the village to prevent any further attacks.
Paimon, impressed by Jean's quick response, couldn't help but compliment her.
Paimon: Wow! In just one night, you've already found solutions to protect the village from the Heartless. As expected from Jean. But… with all this work, did you really get any rest?
Jean's response to Paimon's remark caused her to look away, clearly uncomfortable, as if she'd rather avoid the question.
Jean: Well...
Unfortunately for her, Lisa didn't give her the chance to dodge it. With a teasing tone, she answered for her.
Lisa: Fu Fu, Paimon, you know Jean well enough to guess she didn't rest at all. With everything that happened yesterday, our dear Acting Grand Master spent the whole night addressing all the issues that arose in Mondstadt.
Jean: Lisa!
She cried out, clearly embarrassed, not wanting Sora, Aether, and Paimon to worry about her. But it was too late.
Paimon: What!? That's not good, Jean! You need to take care of yourself!
Sora: Paimon's right! You and Lisa helped us fight off the Demon Tide. After a battle like that, you should've taken some rest.
Jean looked at Sora and Paimon, touched by their concern. She knew they were right, but her duty to Mondstadt weighed on her more than anything else.
Jean: I appreciate your concern, but I really didn't have much of a choice. With a threat as unpredictable as the Heartless, I couldn't just sit back. I had to think of every possible way to protect Mondstadt and ensure that disasters like this don't happen again.
She paused, her determined gaze meeting Sora's.
Jean: If we face this threat again, we need to be fully prepared to contain it effectively. Every citizen of Mondstadt is counting on us.
Sora, sensing the seriousness in Jean's voice, lowered his gaze slightly before responding.
Sora: I understand, Jean. But you're not alone. We're here to help you. I know the Heartless better than anyone, and I'll do everything in my power to ensure that Mondstadt doesn't have to endure such attacks again.
Paimon nodded vigorously, as if to reinforce Sora's words.
Paimon: Sora's right! Besides, you can't do everything on your own! If you wear yourself out, how can you protect everyone? And don't forget, you named Aether an Honorary Knight... so it's his duty to protect Mondstadt from all dangers. Right, Aether?
Aether, feeling called out, nodded confidently.
Aether: Of course. If the city is in danger, I'll be more than happy to defend it once again.
Jean: Sora... Aether... Paimon...
Touched by their determination, Jean looked at each of them in turn. A sincere smile appeared on her lips.
Jean: You're right… I guess I need to learn to delegate a little more.
Lisa, who had been watching the scene in silence until then, crossed her arms and added with a teasing tone:
Lisa: See, Jean? It's not a crime to take a break now and then. Even the most diligent Master needs some rest.
Kaeya, still wearing his enigmatic smile, stepped forward slightly. His teasing tone was present, but this time it was laced with sincerity.
Kaeya: Well, if we need to reassure our dear Acting Grand Master, even I suppose I can't afford to cut corners. I'll have to work a little more seriously than usual...
Jean chuckled softly, the atmosphere lightening as her friends rallied around her. It felt good to share the weight of responsibility, and she was grateful to have such supportive allies by her side.
Amber, bursting with energy, exclaimed with her usual enthusiasm:
Amber: If there's anything I can do to help Jean, you can count on me! As the great outrider, I'll be the first to spot any Heartless and warn you all.
Looking at each of her companions, Jean felt a weight lift slightly off her shoulders. At that moment, she realized she didn't just have subordinates, but true allies—friends ready to do whatever it took to protect Mondstadt.
Jean: Thank you, all of you... really.
The group exchanged knowing glances, a new energy igniting among them. Though Jean was relieved by her friends' promises, she still couldn't shake her lingering concerns. She furrowed her brow slightly, lost in thought.
Jean: Even though we're better prepared, there's still something that's troubling me… Why the Heartless never been seen in Teyvat before? Creatures this dangerous and unique should have been mentioned somewhere in our records, and yet... nothing.
Lisa, always calm and thoughtful, nodded in agreement, crossing her arms.
Lisa: Indeed, Jean. I find it strange as well. These creatures don't match anything we know from Teyvat's history. Not a single text mentions them, not even in legends. It's as if they appeared out of nowhere.
Hearing their questions, a pang of guilt struck Sora. He lowered his head, already knowing why these creatures had appeared here—a truth he hadn't yet shared with them.
Jean, meanwhile, continued, her analytical mind seeking answers.
Jean: And there's also that man in the black cloat. Who was he? Why did he appear at the end of the battle with the Heartless?
Amber, who had only been partially informed of the events, raised a hand to ask a question.
Amber: Wait, I didn't get all the details. Who was this man in black? What exactly happened in Mondstadt during the attack?
Jean turned her gaze to Amber and explained.
Jean: He appeared out of nowhere, right after we drove back the Demon Tide. He approached Sora… and before we could react, he passed right through him like a shadow. Then, he vanished as quickly as he came. We have no idea who he was or what he wanted.
Amber squinted, clearly confused by the story.
Amber: He… passed through you? Are you feeling okay, Sora? Nothing weird happened after that?
Touched by Amber's concern, Sora nodded with a reassuring smile.
Sora: Yeah, I'm fine, Amber. I didn't feel anything strange.
Kaeya, who had remained silent until now, watched the scene intently. He squinted, pondering the implications of what he had just heard. Who was this man? And why did he seem so connected to Sora? Questions swirled in his mind, but he kept quiet, preferring to analyze the situation before speaking.
Seeing everyone deep in thought about the mysterious figure, Sora realized it was time to tell them the truth. He straightened slightly, taking a deep breath before addressing the room.
Sora: Listen... I think I know who that guy in black was. Or at least... I have an idea.
All eyes turned toward Sora, and the atmosphere in the room became tense and serious. Jean, Lisa, Amber, and Kaeya waited in silence, sensing that whatever Sora was about to say would be crucial. Knowing he couldn't keep the truth hidden any longer, he spoke with gravity.
Sora: When I first met you, I didn't tell you everything about me… or about my enemies. But now, after what's happened here in Mondstadt, I think it's important you know everything. Because maybe… one of my old enemies survived. And if that's true, you all deserve to know the whole truth.
The silence in the room was almost tangible. The young Keyblade wielder took a deep breath before continuing, ready to reveal the true nature of the dangers he had faced.
Sora, as he had done the night before with Aether, launched into a detailed account of his past battles, sharing with Jean, Lisa, Amber, and Kaeya stories they could never have imagined. His words were heavy with gravity as he spoke of the terrible confrontations he had faced against his mortal enemies: the members of Organization XIII, a group of powerful beings led by a man named Xehanort.
Sora explained that their goal was to provoke a war called the Keyblade War, in order to plunge the existing worlds into Darkness, leading to their destruction, so they could be reborn as a single, unified world.
Sora's words left his listeners stunned. Jean, Lisa, Amber, and Kaeya were deeply unsettled. They listened intently, but it was hard for them to wrap their minds around what they were hearing. Until that day, they had no knowledge of the existence of other worlds beyond Teyvat, except for the fact that their companion, Aether, was himself a traveler from elsewhere. However, the idea that entire worlds had nearly been destroyed, and that it had happened without their knowledge, was almost inconceivable.
Jean, her brows furrowed, tried to collect her thoughts. The idea that Teyvat, their home, could have been wiped out without them ever realizing it terrified her.
Jean: So, without your intervention, Sora, we could have... disappeared. Our world could have been swallowed by this Darkness, and we would have never known...
A heavy silence settled over the room. Lisa, too, was struck by the magnitude of the revelation. She sighed, crossing her arms, visibly troubled.
Lisa: We've always believed that Teyvat was the center of our reality, but it seems like it's just a small piece of a much larger picture. The fact that all of this happened in other worlds without us even being aware of it… it's hard to process.
Amber, usually so full of energy, appeared disoriented. She had always viewed the world with optimism and enthusiasm, but now, a part of her felt vulnerable in the face of this troubling truth.
Amber: This is… a lot to take in. All these worlds, these battles… I can't believe something so terrible could have happened without us knowing.
Kaeya, on the other hand, remained calm, but his eyes gleamed with an intense focus, thinking through what he had just heard. He knew Sora wasn't lying, but the implications of this story worried him. He looked at Sora, then at Jean, before finally speaking.
Kaeya: If this Xehanort and his organization were as powerful as you say, and if they sought to destroy worlds, then it's possible their influence hasn't completely vanished. The fact that a man in black appeared here after the Heartless attack could mean that there are still forces at work, lurking in the shadows.
Kaeya's words added another layer of weight to Sora's revelations. The group was beginning to grasp the magnitude of the danger they were facing. Sora, sensing the confusion in their minds, continued in a softer but equally serious tone.
Sora: I know all of this sounds incredible, and I didn't tell you everything at first because I didn't want to alarm you. But now that the Heartless are here, in your world, and that man in black has appeared… I can't hide the truth from you anymore.
He paused, letting his words sink in. Sora stood in silence for a moment, his eyes fixed on the ground. Then, suddenly, he bowed his head, his expression filled with regret.
Sora: I'm sorry!
His words surprised everyone in the room. Jean, Lisa, Amber, and Kaeya exchanged confused glances, not understanding why Sora was suddenly apologizing.
Jean: Sora, why are you apologizing?
Sora clenched his fists, a shadow of guilt crossing his face.
Sora: I never intended to cause you any problems. The appearance of the Heartless... it was something I feared, but I thought I could handle it without your world getting involved. And now, knowing that there might be a survivor from the Organization XIII... it means my presence here could have disrupted the peace in Teyvat. It's because of me that all this is happening.
Jean, Lisa, Amber, and Kaeya remained silent for a moment, taking in Sora's words. The young Keyblade wielder stood there, his head bowed, as if he was carrying the weight of this responsibility alone. He had traveled through so many worlds, and now, he felt responsible for Teyvat's safety. But what he didn't realize was that no one in the room shared his perspective.
Jean, with both gentleness and firmness, stepped forward.
(Genshin Impact OST - Tender Strength)
Jean: Sora... no one here blames you. We never once thought it was your fault.
Lisa nodded, stepping up as well, arms crossed but with a kind gaze fixed on him.
Lisa: The Heartless are an unpredictable threat. What you're saying is important, but you're not responsible for their appearance. From what I understand, their destructive nature means they always find a way to emerge, no matter where they are. It's not you who brought them here.
Amber chimed in with a smile, trying to lift Sora's spirits.
Amber: Sora, you should never apologize for something you didn't cause! If the Heartless are here, it's for reasons beyond any of us. And if you hadn't arrived, who knows what might've happened? Thanks to you, we were able to fight them off!
Kaeya stepped closer to Sora and, with conviction, said:
Kaeya: Amber's right. If anyone should be apologizing, it's those who are manipulating these creatures from the shadows. Definitely not you. And believe me, we all know you're here to help us, not to cause any trouble.
Sora slowly lifted his head, touched by the words of his new friends. They didn't see him as a source of misfortune, but as an ally—someone fighting by their side to protect what they held dear.
Jean, her expression serious but full of kindness, added with conviction:
Jean: Sora, you've helped us protect Mondstadt, and you've brought us insight into what could happen to Teyvat. But more importantly, you've given us a chance to prepare. Without you, we would've remained ignorant of this threat. So please, never feel guilty for being here. We're honored to have you by our side.
A sigh of relief escaped Sora. He hadn't expected such reactions. He anticipated more doubts, maybe even mistrust, but instead, he found support and friendship.
Sora: Thank you... Thank you all.
Paimon, who had stayed quiet until now, chimed in cheerfully:
Paimon: Hehe, see? I told you, Sora. Nobody here thinks you're to blame for any of this. We're all in the same boat now!
Aether: Paimon's right. Whatever we face in the future, we'll face it together.
Feeling his heart lighten a bit, Sora gave a sincere smile. He now knew that he could rely on them, not just to defend Teyvat, but also to help carry the burden he had been bearing for so long.
Jean noticed a lingering hint of doubt in Sora's eyes, despite their encouragement. She knew that to truly lift his spirits, she needed to remind him of what mattered most to him. She stepped toward him, her gaze determined yet filled with warmth.
Jean: Sora, I want to remind you that our promise to help still stands. Originally, you asked for our help to find your friend Kairi. We know how important finding her is to you. Although the Heartless demand our full attention right now, we will do everything we can to support you.
Sora looked up, surprised and touched by Jean's words.
Jean: Mondstadt has many allies and resources throughout Teyvat. We won't hesitate to pass along any information that might help you find her.
Sora remained silent for a moment, but a smile slowly appeared on his face. The simple knowledge that others cared about his personal quest, even amidst the looming dangers, comforted him more than he expected.
Sora: Thank you, Jean... You have no idea how much that means to me. Kairi… she's more than a friend. She's someone very special.
Jean nodded, understanding the depth of that bond, and continued:
Jean: I can see that, and that's why we won't let you search for her alone.
She then turned to Aether, who had been watching the scene attentively.
Jean: Aether, don't forget that our commitment to you is just as strong. We haven't forgotten your quest to find your sister. We will keep supporting you.
Aether, surprised but grateful, nodded.
Aether: Thank you, Jean. You've all faced tough times, but I'll never forget the help you've given me.
With an encouraging tone, Jean replied:
Jean: We're all allies here. Whether it's Kairi, your sister, or protecting Mondstadt, we'll keep moving forward together.
Amber, always full of energy, added with a smile:
Amber: Well said! Sora, if I find anything about Kairi, you'll be the first to know! And you too, Aether, for your sister. I'll be out there patrolling and exploring for any clues. I'm a outrider, after all—it's my job to see things before anyone else!
Sora looked at his new companions, deeply moved by their dedication. He felt lighter, less alone in his personal quests. The fear of being a burden had lifted, replaced by a sense of mutual trust.
Amber, still cheerful and curious, turned to Sora after Jean finished speaking.
Amber: So, Sora, what are you planning to do now? I mean, with the Heartless and your search for Kairi, you must have a lot on your mind.
Sora crossed his arms, looking thoughtful.
Sora: Well, with everything going on here, I really want to let my friends know what I've discovered. But the problem is, I don't know how... They're probably in another world, and I have no way of contacting them...
At these words, the room fell silent as everyone thought about a solution. But before anyone could respond, a strange sound, almost like a melody, suddenly echoed in the air. Paimon jumped up, startled.
Paimon: Waaah! What was that?!
Jean, equally surprised, furrowed her brow.
Jean: What was that? That sound seems to be coming from…
Everyone's eyes turned toward Sora, who was looking around in confusion. When he realized the sound was coming from him, he reached into his pocket and pulled out a small rectangular device where the melody was coming from.
The residents of Teyvat—Jean, Lisa, Amber, and Kaeya—stared at the device with wide eyes, both curious and perplexed.
Amber: What is that, Sora? It's making noise and... glowing!
Sora, initially surprised, suddenly smiled, a flash of joy crossing his face.
Sora: Oh! Right! How could I forget? It's the Gummiphone! Master Yen Sid gave it to me so I could stay in touch with my friends!
Without hesitation, he answered the call, and a strange light burst from the device. A bright screen appeared in the air, projected before them. Everyone's eyes were glued to the strange sight.
Suddenly, a small creature appeared on the screen, resembling a chipmunk, dressed in brown overalls, with a tiny red nose. But what surprised the natives of Teyvat even more was that the chipmunk... was talking!
? ? ?: Hey, Sora! How's it going? Can you hear us okay over here?
Sora, with a wide smile, enthusiastically greeted the little chipmunk.
(Kingdom Hearts OST - Gummi Ship LAB)
Sora: Dale! It's great to see you!
The residents of Mondstadt, on the other hand, were left speechless by the scene. Paimon, floating beside Aether, had her eyes wide open.
Paimon: Wow! W-what is that?! A talking chipmunk?!
Chip, unfazed by everyone else's astonishment, called out to his companion.
Dale: Hey, Chipper, I finally got him! Hurry up, Chip!
At that moment, another chipmunk, almost identical to Dale except for a black nose, appeared on the screen.
Chip: Hey Sora! It's about time.
Sora: Hey Chip!
Faced with this most unusual scene, everyone in the room couldn't help but comment.
Paimon: Now there are two of them! Aether, are you seeing this? I'm not imagining things, right?
Aether: I see... two talking chipmunks.
Kaeya: Well... that's not something you see every day.
Jean: You're right... But it seems like Sora knows them.
Amber: Oh, they look pretty cute!
Lisa: Ara, these little darlings are just adorable.
Returning to his conversation with his friends, Sora asked them a question.
Sora: By the way, I don't remember the Gummiphone being able to do this. Did you guys modify it?
Chip: Exactly! To be precise, we just developed an update for the Gummiphone to improve its communication abilities!
Dale: That's right! Before, when we called, everyone had to squeeze together to be visible. Now, thanks to the new version, the camera captures a wider view!
Chip: And on top of that, we improved the call display, so you can see us on a big screen instead of a tiny one. It's much more convenient!
Sora: Wow! You guys managed to develop all this in such a short time? You're both amazing!
Chip and Dale: Right! Don't you?
Paimon, still curious and full of energy, floated around the glowing screen with obvious excitement. She couldn't help but jump into the conversation.
Paimon: Hey, Sora! Who are these two talking chipmunks? Paimon sure everyone's wondering the same thing, right?
Jean, Kaeya, Lisa, and Amber exchanged glances, clearly intrigued and sharing the same curiosity. They all awaited Sora's response. Sora nodded with a smile, understanding their confusion.
Sora: You're right. Let me introduce you. These are Chip and Dale, two super talented engineers who live in a world called Disney Castle. They're responsible for a lot of things there.
At those words, Chip and Dale, still on the screen, perked up enthusiastically, happy to introduce themselves.
Dale: Hi everyone! Like Sora just said, I'm Dale, and here's my brother and colleague, Chip! We're excited to meet all of you!
Chip: Nice to meet you! We're the chief engineers at Disney Castle, and we love creating and improving things, like this Gummiphone!
The natives of Teyvat listened closely, clearly fascinated by these new creatures and their world.
Paimon: Nice to meet you! I'm Paimon, and this is my companion, Aether.
Aether: Hello, both of you.
Jean: Greetings. I'm Jean, Acting Grand Master of the Knights of Favonius here in Mondstadt. I'd also like to introduce my friends, Kaeya, Lisa, and Amber.
Kaeya stepped forward with his usual smile.
Kaeya: Pleasure to meet you, gentlemen engineers. As Jean said, I'm Kaeya.
Amber, eyes gleaming with excitement, eagerly joined in.
Amber: Hi! I'm Amber! Nice to meet you!
Lisa, calm and observant as always, spoke last.
Lisa: Interesting… My name's Lisa. Tell me, gentlemen, this Gummiphone… it seems like a very advanced communication device. How does it work exactly? It allows you to communicate between worlds, doesn't it?
Chip and Dale exchanged a knowing glance before replying.
Dale: Oh, it's pretty simple… well, for us!
Chip: Exactly. The Gummiphone can send signals across different worlds using technology we developed at Disney Castle. This lets us stay in touch with Sora, no matter where he is.
Paimon: Wow, that's amazing! So, you can talk to Sora no matter where he is? That's super handy!
Amber: You're right, Paimon. If we had a device like that, it would be a huge help in improving communication between the Knights of Favonius. We could alert everyone much faster about any threats to Mondstadt, right, Jean?
Jean: Absolutely, Amber. This kind of technology would greatly increase our efficiency and help protect the city better.
An admiring silence filled the room. This was the first time they had heard of something so advanced, capable of connecting worlds so far apart. The idea that tools like the Gummiphone existed fascinated everyone. Sora turned to his two small friends, Chip and Dale, with a relieved smile.
Sora: You guys showed up at just the right time. I need to talk to King Mickey and Riku. I have some important things to tell them.
Chip nodded eagerly, his energy almost tangible through the screen.
Chip: That's perfect, Sora! The King wanted to call you too. That's why we contacted you.
Dale, equally enthusiastic, added:
Dale: We'll set up the call. It'll just take a minute.
Sora: Thanks, guys.
While Chip and Dale worked on setting up the call, Amber, always curious, leaned toward Sora.
Amber: Wait... did you just say you're going to call a king? And who is this Riku?
Sora, with his ever-friendly smile, responded:
Sora: Riku is my best friend. And His Majesty is King Mickey. He's helped me through many adventures.
The mention of a king being part of Sora's close circle piqued everyone's interest. Jean, Lisa, Kaeya, and Amber exchanged surprised looks.
Kaeya: A king, huh? I must say, Sora, you never cease to amaze us.
Paimon, her eyes wide with excitement, floated with glee.
Paimon: Sora knows a king! Wow! You really don't do things halfway!
As everyone processed this new information, the Gummiphone's screen suddenly shifted, projecting a bright light. Four figures appeared on the screen: a tall young man with silver hair, and three surprising anthropomorphic characters—a mouse, a duck, and a dog.
The natives of Teyvat stood in stunned silence. Seeing two talking squirrels had been a surprise, but this new scene exceeded anything they could've imagined. But for Sora, it was a moment of pure joy. He beamed with happiness, thrilled to see his dear friends again.
(Kingdom Hearts OST - A Walk in Andante)
Sora: Riku! Your Majesty! Donald! Goofy!
The emotion in his voice was palpable. Riku, with his calm and composed demeanor, smiled back. King Mickey, as kind-hearted as ever, raised his hand in greeting, while Donald and Goofy waved cheerfully through the screen.
Donald and Goofy: Sora!
Mickey: Oh, hello, Sora!
Riku: It's about time you called.
The group from Teyvat, watching the scene unfold, wondered who exactly these new characters were and what role they played in Sora's life. Jean, Amber, Kaeya, Lisa, Aether, and Paimon exchanged curious glances, eager to hear what would happen next.
It was Donald who spoke first, clearly eager for news.
Donald: You're okay, Sora?
Goofy, with his usual kindness, added:
Goofy: Donald and I were worried about ya. We were afraid you didn't make it in one piece.
Sora, reassuring his friends, responded enthusiastically:
Sora: Don't worry, everything's fine! I'm in Teyvat now. Master Yen Sid's Star Shard got me here safely.
Donald and Goofy's faces lit up with relief.
Goofy: Gawrsh, that's a relief! After you left, we were wonderin' if you ended up in the right place.
Donald, crossing his arms with an exaggerated pout, chimed in:
Donald: Yeah, we wanted to make sure you didn't land in some weird world! Otherwise, we'd have to run around rescuing you again, like usual.
Feeling a bit defensive, Sora replied awkwardly:
Sora: Hey! It's not like I try to end up in dangerous situations!
Sensing an opportunity to tease his friend, Riku joined in with a smirk:
Riku: You can't really blame them for worrying. After all, they're right—you do have a knack for getting into trouble.
Sora, frowning in defense, shot back:
Sora: Oh, come on, not you too, Riku! I don't do it on purpose!
Sora's slightly embarrassed tone triggered soft laughter from Donald and Goofy, who couldn't resist teasing their friend affectionately. Even Mickey let out a small chuckle, while Riku smiled silently, enjoying these lighthearted moments where he could gently poke fun at Sora—something everyone seemed to love, except maybe Sora himself.
On Jean and the others' side, they were surprised to see this awkward side of Sora, especially after the serious impression he had left earlier. But far from disappointing them, it made them smile. Seeing that a hero like Sora could also be teased and embarrassed made them feel more connected to him. Kaeya and Lisa, in particular, appreciated the scene, being fond of playful teasing themselves.
These moments of levity revealed another facet of Sora's character, making him even more endearing to his new friends. They felt they were starting to get to know him better and appreciated him for his sincerity and humility.
After recovering from the teasing, Sora turned back to the screen to ask:
Sora: So, what about you guys? Where are you right now?
It was Mickey, always calm and kind, who replied.
Mickey: We're in Radiant Garden. We came to inform Ansem the Wise and the others about what's happening with Kairi and what happened after you left.
Sora: I see.
At that moment, Mickey's group finally noticed that Sora wasn't alone. With his usual mischievousness, Riku shot Sora an amused look.
Riku: Well, Sora, I see you didn't waste any time making new friends.
Sora responded with a wide smile, not even bothering to defend himself, simply happy to be surrounded by such good friends.
Mickey, curious and respectful, leaned a bit closer to the screen.
Mickey: Sora, would you mind introducing us?
Sora, excited by the request, happily agreed.
Sora: Of course!
He turned to his new companions from Teyvat.
Sora: Everyone, I'd like you to meet my friends! This is Riku, King Mickey, Donald, and Goofy. They're the ones who've been by my side through all my adventures.
Jean, ever polite and dignified, was the first to speak, bowing her head slightly.
Jean: It's a pleasure to meet you. My name is Jean, 'Dandelion Knight' and Acting Grand Master of Mondstadt. It is an honor to finally meet you.
After Jean's introduction, the other members of the Knights of Favonius followed suit.
Kaeya: I'm Kaeya, Captain Cavalry of the Knights of Favonius. I must say, it's impressive to meet such… unique friends.
Lisa: Lisa. I'm the librarian of the Knights of Favonius. I must admit, this is my first time communicating with people from another world. It's quite intriguing.
Amber: Hi, I'm Amber, outrider of the Knights of Favonius. I was the one who welcomed Sora to Teyvat when he first arrived.
Not wanting to be left out, Paimon chimed in enthusiastically:
Paimon: And I'm Paimon! The best guide you'll find for all things Teyvat! Oh, and here's my travel companion, Aether.
Aether nodded calmly, keeping his introduction brief and respectful.
Aether: Hello. As Paimon said, I'm Aether. Just a simple traveler.
Once Aether and the others had finished their introductions, it was Riku and his companions' turn to introduce themselves.
Riku: It's nice to meet you all. I'm Riku.
Mickey: And I'm Mickey.
Donald: I'm Donald, servant of His Majesty Mickey and the royal magician.
Goofy: And I'm Goofy! I serve the king too, and I'm captain of the royal knights.
After hearing the introductions from Riku, Mickey, Donald, and Goofy, the Teyvat group exchanged knowing glances. Despite the animal-like appearances of some, it was clear that Sora's companions were far more capable than they might seem, and their loyalty and skills were undeniable.
Jean was the first to break the silence again, polite and composed as always:
Jean: Your appearances may be surprising, but it's obvious that you are all trusted and competent allies. Sora is lucky to have you by his side.
Riku nodded in appreciation and turned to address all the members from Teyvat.
Riku: Thank you for welcoming Sora and taking care of him.
Amber responded with a smile:
Amber: Don't worry about it! It was a pleasure to welcome Sora. And honestly, he's fit in pretty well here.
Kaeya, in a laid-back tone, added while crossing his arms:
Kaeya: Sora is... unique, I'd say. But he hasn't caused too many problems. In fact, he's the one solving them.
Lisa, with her usual mysterious smile, noted as she observed the new visitors:
Lisa: Actually, we already know a bit about Sora's situation. He's told us about his quest to find your friend, Kairi. Rest assured, if there's anything we can do to help, we won't hesitate.
Paimon, floating right beside Aether, added enthusiastically:
Paimon: That's right! Sora is our friend now, and we're not about to let a friend down in the middle of a mission.
Sora, deeply moved by such sincerity, whispered softly:
Sora: Guys…
He was visibly touched by the solidarity surrounding him. A respectful silence settled as everyone looked toward Riku, Mickey, Donald, and Goofy, who were visibly moved by the display of camaraderie. With a heartfelt sincerity, Riku turned to Teyvat's residents:
Riku: Thank you for your help. You don't know how much this means to us.
The group from Teyvat, as kind-hearted as ever, waved or nodded modestly in response to Riku's thanks. Mickey, ever attentive and caring, leaned forward slightly, his gaze resting on Sora with a hint of curiosity.
Mickey: So, Sora, how's it going? Do you have anything to share with us?
Sora's face suddenly turned serious, shifting from his usual warm smile to a more somber expression. His friends from Disney Castle immediately reacted. Riku, Mickey, Donald, and Goofy exchanged glances, wondering why their friend looked so troubled.
Riku furrowed his brow slightly, concerned.
Riku: Sora, what's going on?
Mickey, sensing that something serious was about to be revealed, remained silent, his large ears perked as he waited for Sora to speak. Donald and Goofy, still concerned about their friend, watched him closely, suspecting that whatever he was about to share wouldn't be good.
(Kingdom Hearts OST - Strange Whispers)
Without delay, Sora took a deep breath and told them everything. His story was brief, straightforward. Before they could even fully react, he had already summarized all that had happened since his arrival in Teyvat. He explained what he did after being transported here by Master Yen Sid's star sharp, the people he met, and, most importantly, his recent battle with the Heartless. But what caught their attention — especially Riku's and Mickey's — was his mention of a mysterious man in a black cloak that he had seen. Sora suspected this man might be one of the remaining members of Organization XIII.
At this revelation, Donald and Goofy cried out in shock.
Donald and Goofy: WHAT!?
Donald: That's impossible!
Silence fell after Sora's explanation, as Riku's and Mickey's faces hardened.
Riku: Sora, are you sure about this?
Uncertain, Sora shrugged.
Sora: Honestly, I'm not sure. I want to believe all the members are gone. Maybe I'm just imagining things... But aside from Pete and Maleficent, who else could still be using the Corridors of Darkness?
Riku nodded, acknowledging Sora's reasoning.
Riku: You're right.
Mickey, looking grave, added:
Mickey: What Sora just told us is very concerning. If what he saw is true, then it means we're not really done with Xehanort and Organization XIII.
Donald, always quick to react, exclaimed:
Donald: WAK! Do you really believe that, Your Majesty?
With a dark expression, Mickey answered calmly:
Mickey: Unfortunately, I have to consider the possibility.
Goofy, his tone suddenly worried, murmured:
Goofy: Gawrsh... that doesn't sound good...
Riku, visibly troubled, turned to Mickey.
Riku: Mickey, I think it's urgent to gather everyone and let them know. We should also inform Master Yen Sid about what Sora discovered, and start preparing for the worst.
With a determined look, Mickey nodded.
Mickey: I agree. We can't waste any more time — we need to inform the others as quickly as possible.
Goofy, still concerned, voiced another worry:
Goofy: Your Majesty, I'm a worried about Sora. If what he saw really is a survivor of the Organization, don't you think we should get to Teyvat as soon as possible?
Donald, supporting the idea, added:
Donald: Goofy's right! Who knows what that guy might try to do to Sora or the others? He could easily stir up trouble there!
Mickey, aware of the risks, remained practical.
Mickey: I understand, Donald. But for now, we don't even know exactly where Teyvat is. Searching for it across the vastness of the cosmos would take too much time. All we can do is trust Sora and his new friends to handle things until we're able to join them.
Mickey then turned to the Teyvat group.
Mickey: Your name is Jean, isn't it? I just want to apologize if our troubles have disturbed the peace in your world. That was never our intention, and please know that we'll do whatever is necessary to resolve this situation.
Jean, with her usual calm, replied with dignity.
Jean: That won't be necessary, Your Majesty. As we've already told Sora, you aren't in any way responsible for what's happening here. We'll find a way to prepare for the dangers ahead, and your assistance is more than welcome.
Moved by her response, Mickey nodded.
Mickey: Understood. Thank you.
Riku then spoke up.
Riku: Alright, let's go with that plan. Thanks for letting us know, Sora. Rest assured, we'll be as ready as we can.
Sora: No problem. Take care of yourselves.
Riku: You too. And be careful, especially if you find yourself alone against that guy in the black cloak. You know how dangerous they can be.
With a confident smile, Sora replied:
Sora: Hey, no problem. I've been through way worse. Besides... I have friends to watch my back. Right?
He turned to his new companions from Teyvat, who nodded with determination, showing they were all ready to support him.
Riku: In that case, we feel relieved. See you later, Sora.
At that moment, the screen from the Gummiphone went dark, leaving the Teyvat group alone once more. Each of them processed the conversation they'd just had with Sora's friends, considering what might come next. They were aware of the potential dangers ahead, but immediate answers were elusive, and it was hard to make solid plans in the face of the unknown.
It was then that Paimon, always bringing a touch of lightness even in serious moments, spoke up.
Paimon: Alright, alright! We've thought about all that, but maybe it's time to put these worries aside for now. Aether and Paimon need to focus on our own journey. You remember, right? We're supposed to leave Mondstadt soon to head to Liyue. The Heartless attack set us back, so it's time to get moving. We still have a few things to get ready today, and then tomorrow, off to Liyue!
Paimon's reminder brought the group back to reality. Aether nodded to confirm her words. Jean, with her usual calm, agreed.
Jean: Of course. You have an important journey of your own to continue. You've done so much for Mondstadt already. You should focus on your preparations and not worry about us. We'll look after the city in your absence.
Then, after a moment's reflection, Jean turned to Sora. She hesitated briefly, choosing her words carefully, before offering a suggestion that seemed to weigh on her mind.
Jean: Sora, I have a proposal for you. Why not accompany Aether and Paimon on their journey?
Surprised, Sora's eyes widened.
Sora: Huh? You want me to go with them? But… what about the Heartless? They could attack Mondstadt again! I can't just leave you all alone with that kind of threat.
Jean smiled gently, understanding Sora's concerns.
Jean: I understand your worries, but we can't rely on your help forever. We, too, need to learn to defend ourselves. When the time comes, trust that we'll be ready. If the Heartless return, we'll know how to fight them. Thanks to you, we've learned so much. Don't worry; if we need you, we'll find a way to reach out.
Kaeya then chimed in, with his usual light but confident tone.
Kaeya: Don't worry. The Heartless showing up was a bit of a shock, true, but we won't be as helpless as the first time. You know, we've fought off tougher foes before. And you, you have another mission waiting for you.
Jean continued, her gaze direct and determined.
Jean: To be honest, Sora, I don't think we'll find many clues about Kairi here in Mondstadt. If you travel with Aether and Paimon through Teyvat, you'll have a much better chance of uncovering leads on her whereabouts. And remember, you share a common goal. Aether is also searching for someone dear to him, and together you might be able to help each other in your quests.
Sora, still hesitant, crossed his arms, thinking. Jean continued her explanation, gently but firmly.
Jean: And there's something else. If the Heartless start appearing in other nations, they could wreak havoc where we have no reach. You're the only one with the skills to truly eliminate them. By traveling across Teyvat, you could help a lot more people.
These words struck a chord with Sora. His mission became clearer. It wasn't just about finding Kairi—it was also about doing what he had always done: protecting worlds and helping his friends. He realized he had more in common with Aether than he initially thought, and this journey could very well hold the key to finding answers, whether for Kairi or Aether's sister.
Sora: You're right, Jean. If I stay here, I won't make any progress. Joining Aether and Paimon seems like the best choice.
He turned to the two in question.
Sora: Aether, Paimon, would it be alright if I traveled with you? And maybe you could help me find Kairi?
Paimon, as enthusiastic as ever, began to fly excitedly around Sora before answering cheerfully.
(Genshin Impact OST - Journey of Hope (Genshin Impact Main Theme Var.)
Paimon: Of course, Sora! Aether and Paimon would be thrilled to have you with us. With your help, this journey will be a breeze!
Aether, more reserved, smiled nonetheless, happy to know they'd all be together on this adventure. He stepped forward and extended his hand to Sora.
Aether: Welcome to the team, Sora. I hope I can count on your support, just as you can count on mine.
Sora smiled and shook Aether's hand.
Sora: Thank you for having me.
Jean, Lisa, Amber, and Kaeya watched the scene with warm smiles, their gazes filled with trust and relief. They felt reassured, knowing that Sora and Aether would be in good company with each other. These two young men, each possessing incredible strength and a devoted heart, already seemed bound by a shared destiny. Now united by common goals, they were ready to face any obstacles that would cross their path and overcome them together.