(ENG) Kingdom Hearts III-5: A Journey on Teyvat

by DyuerisutoX

After Sora's victory over Xehanort, what happened next was supposed to make him disappear so that he could save Kairi. It turns out that this time, Sora might have an idea of where she is. A world, where he'll go on an adventure, accompanied by a blonde-haired traveler and a floating girl. A world called Teyvat. (Art Cover by me by AI)

12. Chapter 11

Author's Notes :

Hello everyone.I hope you're all doing well. I also hope I haven't kept you waiting too long for the continuation of my story. If I have, then I sincerely apologize for the long wait.

Ideally, I would have liked to publish this chapter sooner, but several factors delayed its release. First, the holiday season (Christmas, New Year's, etc.). Then, the release of new updates for Zenless Zone Zero and Genshin Impact (at least, thanks to Genshin's version 5.3, we got to see the conclusion of Natlan's chapter, which will help me better prepare the continuation of my story). And finally—and this is probably the main reason for my delay—I struggled with writing. I had the ideas in my head, I knew where I wanted to take the story, but putting it all into words properly turned out to be difficult. As I've mentioned before, I'm an amateur writer, and I'm still far from being an expert in storytelling. It'll probably take me some more time to refine my style.

That being said, I want to reassure you: even if it takes me a month, two months, or even longer (hopefully not too long), I will keep writing this fanfic. In fact, I've noticed that in this English version, there are still some readers who are interested in my story. So, a huge thank you for taking the time to read it! I sincerely hope you're enjoying what I write.

I would also love to receive as much feedback and as many comments from you as possible. Any critique, whether positive or negative, is welcome, as I hope to improve my writing through them and bring you more satisfaction.

With that,enjoy the reading.

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Disclaimer: I do not own the copyright for these two franchises. They belong to Square Enix and HoyoVerse respectively.

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Kingdom Hearts III.5: A journey on Teyvat

Chapter 11: New encounters, new bonds (Part 3)

(Genshin Impact OST - Dusk in Mondstadt)

Having left the Angel's Share tavern, Sora, Aether, and Paimon strolled through the peaceful streets of Mondstadt, bathed in the golden glow of dusk. They had finished their preparations for their departure to Liyue, scheduled for the next day. Their bags were filled with the necessary supplies, but there were still a few hours to kill before the sun completely disappeared beyond the horizon.

Sora walked in silence, his gaze lost in thought. Eventually, he broke the silence, glancing back at the tavern they had just left.

Sora: Do you think they'll be okay? I mean, Kaeya and Diluc… There was definitely some tension between them. You could feel it.

Aether nodded slightly, well aware of the complicated relationship between the two men. Before he could respond, Paimon quickly chimed in, floating near Sora's shoulder.

Paimon: Oh, don't worry about them, Sora. That's just how they are. Well, it's more like Kaeya is always looking for ways to mess with Master Diluc, but it's never anything serious.

Sora frowned, still doubtful.

Sora: Really? It feels… more complicated than that.

Paimon shrugged, crossing her arms.

Paimon: That's what Aether and Paimon think too. Apparently, those two used to be brothers and got along… more or less. But something big happened in the past that changed everything. Ever since, they've kept their distance. But, well, it's a family matter. It's not really our place to interfere. Even Jean and Lisa don't seem to know much more about it.

Sora: Really? They were brothers?

Sora pondered for a moment, his eyes drifting toward the sky painted in shades of orange and purple.

Sora: That's a shame… They seem like they have so much in common.

He wasn't trying to compare himself to them, but he couldn't help but think about his own "brotherly" bonds. Familiar faces surfaced in his mind—Roxas, his Nobody, with whom he had shared and felt so much pain and joy. Then Ventus, the boy with a wounded heart, whom he had protected without even realizing it for years. They weren't connected by blood, but the bonds he had forged with them made them as close as brothers in his eyes.

…Could he also consider a certain boy in a black mask as part of that "brotherhood"?

In a low voice, Sora murmured:

Sora: They're not my brothers by blood… but the bond we share is enough to unite us like family.

Aether turned his head toward him, intrigued.

Aether: Did you say something, Sora?

Sora shook his head with a gentle smile, pushing back the nostalgia threatening to overtake him.

Sora: No, nothing. I was just thinking… I hope their relationship can improve, little by little.

Paimon, floating beside him, observed him curiously before speaking up.

Paimon: You seem to care a lot about this whole brotherhood thing, Sora.

She crossed her arms, a mischievous glint in her eyes.

Sora: What can I say? I just want the best for them. After all, family is supposed to support each other, no matter what. Right?

Paimon: If that's all, don't worry too much. Those two are a special case. But don't fret—there are plenty of caring and supportive families out there. Maybe even a little too much for some. Like, for example, Barbara and Jean.

Sora blinked, surprised by Paimon's revelation.

Sora: Wait… Jean and Barbara are sisters? I never would've guessed!

Paimon burst into laughter, crossing her arms and floating proudly as if she held secret knowledge.

Paimon: Really? But if you look closely, there are some similarities, aren't there?

Aether: Aside from their physical traits, they also share the same sense of duty toward Mondstadt. Each in their own way.

Sora thought for a moment, recalling both women. He had to admit, there was something similar in their expressions—a kind of sincere warmth that connected them.

Sora: That's true… Now that you mention it, I can see the resemblance.

His mind drifted back to the previous day. He hadn't really had the chance to get to know Barbara. The sudden appearance of the Heartless had thrown everything into chaos, injuring several Knights of Favonius who were then taken to the church for treatment. Barbara had taken charge of the initial healing, and Sora had also helped relieve the wounded using the healing magic he knew.

A slight feeling of incompleteness washed over him. He turned toward Aether and Paimon.

Sora: Would you mind if we stopped by Favonius Cathedral? I'd like to check on Barbara. I didn't really get the chance to talk to her yesterday with everything that happened.

Aether exchanged a glance with Paimon, then nodded.

Aether: Of course. That way, we can also let her know we're leaving for Liyue tomorrow.

Paimon: And besides, Barbara is always happy to see people. She's got such contagious energy!

Sora: Heh, in that case, what are we waiting for?

They set off, making their way through Mondstadt's cobbled streets. As they climbed higher into the city, the majestic silhouette of the cathedral grew closer and closer. The bells rang, as if welcoming visitors, and a soothing serenity filled the air.

(Genshin Impact OST - Windborne Hymn)

Stepping through the cathedral's entrance, their footsteps echoed softly beneath the high vaulted ceilings. The calm atmosphere was a stark contrast to the turmoil of the previous day, when the injured knights had been brought in after the Heartless attack. Today, everything seemed peaceful.

At the front of the nave, near the altar, they spotted Barbara engaged in conversation with someone the trio immediately recognized.

Paimon: Oh? There's Barbara, and also… ah! It's Jean.

Indeed, the young deaconess appeared to be speaking with the Acting Grand Master and a small group of knights.

Sora: It seems so… And those knights… I suppose they're the same ones who were attacked by the Heartless.

Paimon: You're probably right… Well then, let's go say hi!

Paimon exclaimed enthusiastically, leading the way with her usual energy. Sora and Aether followed close behind. As they approached the group, it was Barbara who noticed them first. Her blue eyes lit up with surprise, and a wide smile appeared on her face.

Barbara: Oh! Sora, Traveler, Paimon! What a nice surprise!

Paimon: Hey, Barbara!

Paimon greeted her cheerfully, floating toward her.

Aether: Hello.

Jean and the knights also turned toward them, Jean's serious expression softening slightly at the sight of the trio.

Jean: Good to see you all again. Were you able to finish all your preparations?

She asked with a small smile.

Sora: Yeah, no problem at all.

Sora responded confidently.

Paimon: What about you, Jean? What are you doing here?

She asked, as curious as ever.

Jean: I came to check on the knights who were injured during the Heartless attack. I wanted to personally make sure they weren't seriously hurt. I'm relieved to see they're doing well. But honestly, I shouldn't be surprised—since Barbara was the one taking care of them, I know I can always trust her.

Caught off guard by her sister's praise, Barbara couldn't help but smile, her cheeks turning a rosy shade, clearly touched by the compliment.

Barbara: It's really nothing, Onee— uh, I mean, Acting Grand Master. It's only natural for me to heal those in need. I'm just doing my job, nothing more.

The trio watched the scene with warmth, their expressions reflecting affection for the two sisters. The bond between Jean and Barbara was a pleasant contrast to the tense relationships they had seen between certain "brothers" before.

After that tender moment, Barbara turned to their visitors.

Barbara: So, what brings you to the church?

Aether: Well, now that we're all set for our departure tomorrow, we wanted to stop by and check in on you.

Aether explained with clear sincerity. Barbara blinked, slightly surprised by the unexpected attention.

Barbara: Really? You came to see me?

Paimon: Of course! Though, it was mostly Sora who wanted to see you in particular.

Barbara turned her gaze toward Sora, her cheeks taking on a faint rosy hue. The young boy quickly responded, slightly flustered.

Sora: Well… After everything that happened yesterday, we didn't really get a chance to talk. Since Aether, Paimon, and I are leaving Mondstadt tomorrow, I figured we should stop by and let you know. That's all.

Sora's explanation seemed to touch Barbara. A warm smile stretched across her lips, and a gleam of genuine joy danced in her eyes. She lowered her head slightly, her cheeks still flushed.

Barbara: Thank you so much… It really means a lot that you took the time to come see me.

She then stepped closer to Sora, clasping her hands in front of her.

Barbara: By the way, I truly appreciated your help yesterday, Sora. The care you gave to the injured was incredibly effective, and they were able to recover much faster. I don't know what we would've done without you.

Sora scratched the back of his head, feeling a bit shy from the praise.

Sora: It wasn't much. I just did what I could, that's all.

One of the knights present stepped forward with a confident stride toward Sora. He placed a hand over his heart as a sign of respect before addressing the young hero.

Knight: You're far too modest, young man. Thanks to your help, we were able to recover much faster. Without your quick intervention, things could have been much worse. We are deeply grateful.

The other knights nodded in agreement, their faces filled with appreciation. Sora, slightly embarrassed, lowered his gaze and rubbed the back of his neck.

Sora: I only did what felt right… I know the Heartless and the devastation they can bring. I simply couldn't stand by and do nothing.

Jean, who had been observing the scene with a calm and kind expression, stepped forward as well. She stood before Sora, her azure eyes filled with warmth and sincerity. Looking directly into his eyes, she spoke with measured grace.

Jean: Regardless, Sora, yesterday's events weren't the best time for formalities, but now, I can properly thank you. So, once again, I sincerely appreciate everything you did. You not only helped heal the knights, but you also protected the city and its people from a threat we still don't fully understand.

She paused, letting her words resonate in the quiet air of the cathedral.

Jean: Mondstadt owes you a great debt. Know that as long as you are here, you will always be welcome. We would be honored to count you among our most trusted allies, just as we do Aether.

Sora, deeply moved by her words, felt a comforting warmth spread through his chest. He clenched his fists, determined never to betray the trust placed in him.

Sora: Thank you, Jean. I'm happy I could help. If Mondstadt ever finds itself in danger again, don't hesitate to call on me. I'll always be ready to help my friends.

A small smile graced Jean's lips, while Barbara, standing beside her, looked at Sora with admiration.

Barbara: It's reassuring to know that people like you and the Traveler are watching over us. Thank you, Sora… Thank you, all of you.

After their conversation, the knights, having expressed their gratitude, respectfully bowed to Jean and the rest of the group before taking their leave.

Barbara turned back to Sora, Aether, and Paimon, her warm smile still present.

Barbara: In any case, it was really kind of you to come see me. If I understood correctly, you're about to leave for Liyue, right? In that case, I truly appreciate that you took the time to let me know.

Paimon: No problem! We wouldn't leave the city without telling everyone first.

At that moment, the sharp sound of heels clicking against the cathedral floor echoed through the vast space. Instinctively, heads turned toward the source of the sound. A female figure advanced with a casual yet confident stride. The dim lighting accentuated her pale, almost grayish complexion, and her short wine-colored hair, streaked with deep red highlights. Her magenta eyes, shadowed by dark circles, cast an unreadable gaze upon them.

She wore a dark headdress reminiscent of a nun's, but the rest of her attire starkly contrasted with traditional religious garments. A sleeveless white turtleneck top hugged her slender figure, while long white gloves covered her arms. A black and red slit skirt revealed her legs, adorned with belts and black fishnet stockings, completed by golden high heels.

A slight shiver ran down Sora's spine. He couldn't help but feel slightly intimidated by the detached and somewhat cold aura this woman exuded. Aether exchanged a glance with Paimon, looking just as impressed.

However, Barbara was entirely unfazed by her presence. Instead, her face lit up with a bright smile as she recognized the newcomer.

Barbara: Oh! Sister Rosaria! Good morning!

The woman named Rosaria came to a halt, arms crossed, scrutinizing the group with an impassive expression.

Rosaria: Barbara… Let me stop you right there. If you're planning to drag me to mass again, you can forget it. I'm not in the mood.

Her tone was nonchalant, almost indifferent.

Barbara: What? I haven't even said anything yet! That's unfair. You talk as if I'm always pestering you about it.

Rosaria responded only with a piercing, knowing look. A look that made it clear she could already see right through the young deaconess's intentions. Barbara averted her gaze, a sheepish smile tugging at her lips, as if she had just been caught in the act.

Barbara: …Or at least, mass wasn't my top priority… for now…

Jean, who had been observing the exchange with amusement, stepped in to ease her sister's embarrassment.

Jean: Good morning, Rosaria-san. You seem more tired than usual. Is something wrong? A problem, perhaps?

Rosaria gave a slight shrug, her expression remaining detached.

Rosaria: Not really. I was just tending to my usual duties, nothing more. I was simply… a bit more invested last night.

She trailed off, her magenta eyes locking onto Jean's with a cryptic glint. A brief but heavy silence settled, as if a hidden truth lingered in the air. Then, her gaze shifted toward the trio she was less familiar with.

Her eyes narrowed slightly, curiosity flickering in them, as she calmly inquired:

Rosaria: And who do I have the pleasure of speaking to?

Aether, accustomed to introducing himself, stepped forward slightly, his voice calm and composed.

Aether: My name is Aether. Nice to meet you.

Floating at Aether's shoulder height, Paimon greeted her in turn.

Paimon: And I'm Paimon! Nice to meet you too!

Rosaria's eyes widened slightly as she realized who they were. She gave a small nod, her tone becoming more relaxed, though still laced with indifference.

Rosaria: Ah, I see... so it's you. The Honorary Knight who saved us from Stormterror. I have indeed heard of you. A young blond-haired boy, always accompanied by a curious little pixie.

Paimon puffed up her cheeks in indignation, frowning.

Paimon: Hey! Who are you calling a pixie?!

Rosaria's gaze then shifted toward Sora, a glint of assessment shining in her eyes. She studied him from head to toe, looking thoughtful.

Rosaria: And you… I don't think I've seen you in the city before.

Caught off guard, Sora rubbed the back of his neck with a slightly sheepish smile.

Sora: Uh… My name is Sora. I just arrived in Mondstadt yesterday.

Rosaria frowned slightly, as if trying to peer into the depths of his soul. But before she could say anything else, Barbara eagerly intervened, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

Barbara: Uh… You're going to scare Sora if you keep staring at him like that. He's not someone suspicious. On the contrary, he was a great help yesterday! When the knights were injured, he used his magic to help us treat them. Without him, I don't know if we would have been able to stabilize them so quickly.

Jean nodded seriously, backing up her sister's words.

Jean: Sora didn't just provide healing. He also took part in the fight and didn't hesitate for a second to protect the citizens. He had barely arrived in Mondstadt, and yet, he acted with rare composure and bravery.

Rosaria's lips curled into a barely noticeable smirk as she continued to stare at Sora. Her once cold and piercing gaze softened slightly, though it still held that characteristic wariness.

Rosaria: Interesting… A stranger appearing out of nowhere, protecting Mondstadt the moment he arrives. Is it a coincidence that he's acting exactly like someone else here?

Her eyes briefly shifted to Aether before returning to Sora. Taking a deep breath, she added in a slightly lighter but still serious tone:

Rosaria: It seems the title of 'foreign hero' is transferable. But don't let it go to your head. Even if there's no shortage of challenges, the most dangerous threats are rarely visible to the naked eye. Don't seek attention just for the sake of recognition.

Sora nodded, determination flashing in his blue eyes.

Sora: I understand. I'm not here for glory or recognition. As long as I can help my friends and protect those in need, that's enough for me.

A moment of silent appreciation followed. Rosaria, seemingly satisfied with his response, let out a quiet, amused scoff.

Rosaria: Hm. A decent mindset—far from those who play the hero just to show off. You might be more interesting than I thought.

Barbara, visibly surprised, blurted out a spontaneous remark, her eyes wide in astonishment.

Barbara: For Sister Rosaria to compliment someone on their first meeting… Sora, you really have a knack for getting everyone to like you!

Rosaria slowly turned toward Barbara, her gaze turning sharp and icy.

Rosaria: Oh? You say that as if I have no interest in people and never give out compliments.

Barbara flushed, lowering her head, her fingers nervously fiddling with the fabric of her robe. She murmured in a small voice:

Barbara: T-That's not what I meant…

An awkward silence settled over them. Wanting to lighten the mood, Sora recalled something Rosaria had mentioned earlier. Taking a discreet breath, he attempted to steer the conversation in a different direction.

Sora: Uh… Earlier, you mentioned your 'usual duties.' That has something to do with your work as a nun… right?

Rosaria's eyes locked onto Sora with an almost unsettling intensity. She studied him for a moment before replying in a low, mysterious tone.

Rosaria: Curious, aren't we? A word of advice, young boy—being too curious won't do you any good, especially when you start prying into the affairs of people like me.

A shiver ran down the young hero's spine. He nervously rubbed the back of his head, searching for the right words. Aether and Paimon exchanged glances, also unsettled by her cryptic response. The atmosphere was growing increasingly tense. Jean and Barbara, on the other hand, couldn't help but feel a hint of sympathy for the trio. They were well accustomed to Rosaria's sharp personality, but for those meeting her for the first time, it was an entirely different experience.

After a brief moment, Rosaria eased the tension, her shoulders relaxing slightly. She sighed, as if granting a rare favor.

Rosaria: Well… Since the two of you helped protect Mondstadt, I suppose I can tell you a little more… just this once.

She crossed her arms, her gaze shifting toward the cathedral's large stained-glass windows, where rays of sunlight filtered through the vibrant colors.

Rosaria: My 'usual duties' are simply making sure that the monsters roaming near the city don't become a threat. Sometimes, it also involves dealing with unsavory individuals who might have bad intentions toward Mondstadt.

Paimon: Really? That sounds more like something the knights would do. Do the sisters of Mondstadt have the same authority as the knights?

Instinctively, she turned toward Jean, who seemed best suited to answer the question.

Jean: Not exactly. Let's just say that Rosaria… isn't exactly dedicated to her role as a nun of the Church. However, even though she constantly complains about her responsibilities, some of the 'tasks' she takes on—she handles them flawlessly.

Unfazed by Jean's subtle compliment, Rosaria continued.

Rosaria: Last night, I was simply hunting down Hilichurls, Mitachurls, or any Abyss Mages lurking around. Nothing more, nothing less… Though this time, let's just say I was a little more invested—especially after what happened yesterday.

Paimon, intrigued, floated a bit closer to her.

Paimon: What happened yesterday?

Rosaria's gaze darkened slightly before responding.

Rosaria: You have a short memory, huh? I'm obviously talking about that swarm of black monsters. Those creatures—I've never seen anything like them before. Their sudden appearance is the reason I decided to intensify my hunt last night.

At her words, Sora felt his thoughts aligning. An intuition pushed him to ask a question, his blue eyes filled with both seriousness and curiosity as he looked at Rosaria.

Sora: Wait… Are you saying you went out hunting those monsters because you wanted to get rid of the Heartless that escaped from Mondstadt yesterday?

Rosaria's eyes narrowed slightly, one eyebrow arching in a mix of surprise and interest. She seemed to weigh Sora's words carefully, a glimmer of thoughtfulness in her gaze.

Rosaria: So those black monsters are called Heartless, huh? Interesting… I didn't know their name. But if that's what you call them, then yes, those are the creatures I was hunting. They're unlike anything I've fought before. What kind of monster can literally sink into the ground itself? They were a pain to deal with. And don't even get me started on the round, chubby ones… My attacks just bounced right off their bellies. It was so frustrating that I ended up freezing them solid, and surprisingly… that actually worked pretty well.

Barbara gasped, her expression filled with worry, eyes wide with surprise.

Barbara: Wait a second, Sister Rosaria! You went out to fight those Heartless all alone, in the middle of the night, without even knowing what they were?

Paimon: That's completely reckless! You can't just charge in headfirst like that!

Jean furrowed her brows slightly, her tone serious and filled with concern.

Jean: I agree with Paimon, Rosaria. I know you're highly skilled, but hunting down unknown monsters is dangerous. We still know so little about these creatures.

Rosaria slowly turned her head toward the trio, her usual cold gaze locking onto theirs.

Rosaria: And you think it's normal to just let those things roam free? After what I saw yesterday, I couldn't just stand by and do nothing while they had the chance to return and wreak havoc. These creatures aren't ordinary threats—they're far worse than anything I've ever dealt with before.

Jean took a deep breath, controlling her frustration.

Jean: I never said we should just let them roam unchecked. Thanks to Sora, we already know a little more about the Heartless. Right now, I'm working on strategies to protect the city from these creatures. Be patient. Once I've gathered all the necessary information, we'll be able to fight them effectively.

Rosaria: Hmph. You always take your time, carefully planning everything. That's not really my style. I prefer striking at the source of the problem right away.

Sora watched the tense exchange between Rosaria and Jean. Seeing that Rosaria had no intention of taking Jean's cautious approach into account, he stepped forward slightly, taking a discreet breath before attempting to ease the tension.

Sora: In any case, Rosaria, if you really took down some Heartless roaming around the city, that's impressive. Those creatures aren't easy to fight.

He flashed an encouraging smile, hoping to defuse the atmosphere.

Sora: And when Aether, Paimon, and I leave Mondstadt for Liyue, I'll make sure to eliminate any potential threats along the way—especially any Heartless that might appear. That way, Mondstadt won't have to worry about facing too many of them.

Rosaria observed him carefully, her eyes narrowing slightly as if trying to see through him.

Rosaria: You know, Sora, your arrival in Mondstadt coincides a little too well with the appearance of these Heartless. And strangely, you seem to know a lot about them, even though no one here had ever seen them before. I wonder… if you have some kind of connection to all of this.

Sora felt his stomach tighten under the weight of Rosaria's direct question. He rubbed the back of his head nervously, searching for the right words. Before he could respond, Jean stepped in, her voice calm yet firm.

Jean: Rosaria, it's true that Sora is, in some way, connected to the Heartless. But he is also the key to stopping them. Without his help, we wouldn't have known how to deal with this threat.

She met Rosaria's gaze with unwavering determination, her eyes reflecting absolute conviction.

Jean: I know you're used to fighting alone and relying only on yourself, but this time, you can trust Sora. Thanks to him, we have valuable information on how to combat these creatures. Once I've put all the necessary measures in place to protect Mondstadt, you will be immediately informed about the weaknesses of the Heartless and the best way to eliminate them.

Rosaria remained silent, arms crossed, her eyes fixed on Jean with intensity. She let a pensive silence linger before sighing heavily, as if resigning herself to a situation that didn't quite please her.

Rosaria: Hmph... Fine. I'll accept your proposal—this time. But don't expect me to just sit around and wait. You know how I operate.

A subtle, relieved smile appeared on Sora's face. Beside him, Aether, Paimon, and Barbara exchanged knowing glances, sharing the same sense of relief. Jean nodded, satisfied that she had temporarily defused the situation, fully aware that this cooperation remained a fragile truce.

Rosaria slowly pivoted on her heels, leaving the group behind. Her measured steps betrayed an impatience barely contained. Intrigued and concerned, Paimon hurried after her.

Paimon: Hey, Rosaria! Where are you going?

Without stopping, Rosaria turned just enough to glance over her shoulder, her expression cold and unreadable.

Rosaria: Since the Grand Master here insists on trusting Sora, I'm heading back. I've lingered here long enough for today.

Her words struck like a sentence. Jean didn't react, maintaining a composed dignity despite the biting remark.

Timidly, Barbara stepped forward, her soft voice tinged with a sliver of hope.

Barbara: Um... Sister Rosaria... Is there still a chance you might attend mass today?

Rosaria stopped in her tracks. A heavy silence fell, broken only by the whisper of the wind. She turned slowly, her violet eyes locking onto Barbara's with a sternness that nearly made the young deaconess step back. Her gaze was sharp, unwavering.

Barbara lowered her head with a sigh, nervously clasping her hands in front of her. Sora, Aether, and Paimon exchanged uneasy glances, feeling the tension thickening between them.

Rosaria's voice dropped, quieter, almost weary.

Rosaria: I already told you how I feel about these events.

Without another word, she resumed her stride. Her boots echoed against the stone pavement with a steady rhythm. Just before leaving the church, she paused one last time and turned toward Sora and Aether.

Rosaria: Traveler. Sora. From what I understand, you're planning to head to Liyue, aren't you?

The two boys nodded silently. Rosaria studied them for a long moment before speaking again.

Rosaria: In that case, good luck on your journey. Try not to cause any trouble.

Though blunt, her words carried a hidden hint of sincerity. Without waiting for a response, she walked away, her figure gradually fading from view.

A heavy silence followed. At last, Paimon exhaled, breaking the tension.

Paimon: She's really... something else.

Jean, who had been quietly observing, finally spoke, her voice soft but resolute.

Jean: I know Rosaria may seem cold and distant. But beneath that exterior is someone reliable and devoted. She will do whatever it takes to protect Mondstadt and its people—even if she prefers to do it her own way. Just take the time to get to know her as well as we do, and you'll see.

Barbara nodded gently, unable to disagree with her older sister.

A contemplative silence settled over the church. Sora and Aether exchanged glances before casting one last look in the direction Rosaria had disappeared. A quiet thought lingered between them—the hope of seeing her again one day and, perhaps, even fighting alongside her should new threats arise in Mondstadt.

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(Genshin Impact OST - Moonlight in Mondstadt)

Sitting in their room, Sora and Aether gazed at the stars through the open window while Paimon stifled a small yawn. Night had already fallen, and the three of them had returned to the inn. They had spent time with Jean and Barbara, exchanging information and sharing a few comforting words after the day's events. Before parting ways, Jean had once again expressed her gratitude for their invaluable help, while Barbara had sincerely wished them good luck on their journey to Liyue.

By tomorrow morning, a new adventure awaited them in Liyue, but they knew they were leaving behind dear friends and a city that was now safe.

Paimon stretched her arms high above her head before letting out a satisfied sigh.

Paimon: Phew! We met so many people today! Way more than usual, don't you think?

Sora shrugged at her remark, a carefree smile spreading across his face.

Sora: You think so? I don't see the problem. It was pretty fun, wasn't it?

Leaning against the window frame, Aether slowly nodded.

Aether: Maybe, Paimon. Even for us, that was a lot of encounters in a single day.

A thoughtful silence settled between them. Each of them replayed the day in their minds, the faces of the companions they had met flashing through their thoughts.

Klee

Sucrose

Noëlle

Bennett

Fischl

Razor

Diona

Diluc

Barbara

And Rosalia

So many people, each with their own unique and interesting personality.

Paimon: It's crazy when you think about it—all these different personalities! Sora, maybe you have some kind of gift for attracting people, one way or another?

She punctuated her remark with a mischievous smile, her tiny hands firmly planted on her hips.

Sora turned to her, unsure whether he should feel embarrassed or amused by the idea.

Sora: Hmm... I don't know. Besides, you two were here before me. You also have a knack for surrounding yourselves with the right people. Maybe you're the ones responsible for all this, huh?

He flashed her a playful grin. Caught off guard, Paimon blushed slightly, struggling to come up with a comeback. Amused, Aether seized the opportunity to tease her.

Aether: Looks like he got you this time, huh?

Paimon: Eek, I… think I'll just stop here.

Aether chuckled softly before Sora continued.

Sora: Well… even if that's the case, I won't complain. Meeting new people, forging connections—that's what drives me the most.

He placed a hand over his heart, his gaze drifting toward the twinkling stars.

Sora: These connections are what keep me moving forward and help me overcome every challenge. Without the friends I've met while traveling through different worlds, I wouldn't be here today.

Sora's words hung in the air, filled with a touching sincerity. Aether and Paimon exchanged a knowing glance. They understood exactly what he meant. After all, every encounter, every friendship they had formed gave them the strength to keep going too.

In a softer voice, Paimon murmured,

Paimon: Yeah… Maybe it's not so bad to keep meeting new people.

The silence of the night gradually settled around them. Sora, arms crossed, seemed lost in deep thought. Finally, he lifted his gaze toward Aether and Paimon, a newfound seriousness glimmering in his eyes.

Sora: So... tomorrow morning, we're heading to Liyue, right?

Aether nodded, his expression resolute despite the exhaustion evident on his face.

Sora: We're going there to search for your sister, aren't we?

Aether: Yeah. We're hoping to find some clues, even the smallest ones.

Paimon floated closer to their faces, her tone light and cheerful as she added:

Paimon: And since you're coming with us, Sora, we're definitely adding Kairi to our list of people to find!

Paimon's words warmed Sora's heart. Grateful for their unwavering support, he gave them a sincere smile. A brief but meaningful silence settled between them before Aether spoke again, clarifying their mission.

Aether: Our main goal is to meet the Geo Archon in person. If anyone has answers, it's probably him.

She finished her sentence with a hint of uncertainty. At those words, Sora furrowed his brows slightly, raising an intrigued eyebrow. A fleeting image of Master Yen Sid and his warnings about this world crossed his mind.

Sora: The Geo Archon… These Archons, they're the gods of this world, right?

Paimon: Exactly! The Archons are super powerful and… normally known for having all the answers. At least… that's what we've heard.

Sora seemed to weigh Paimon's words carefully before voicing the question that had been nagging at him.

Sora: Do you really think this Archon knows where your sister is?

Aether took a moment to think before responding, his golden eyes fixed on the starry sky with determination.

Aether: Maybe not directly. But even if he doesn't have the exact answer, he might give us clues. The Archons have lived through centuries of history. They must know something about what happened while I was asleep.

Sora nodded, understanding the hope and logic behind Aether's reasoning. After a moment, another question formed in his mind, curiosity slipping into his voice.

Sora: And what about Mondstadt's Archon? If that's the case, you met him too, right? Did he help you?

At that question, Aether and Paimon exchanged a glance full of unspoken meaning. Their expressions betrayed a clear sense of unease. Sora immediately noticed their discomfort, furrowing his brows in confusion.

Sora: What? What did I say?

Paimon scratched the back of her head, averting her gaze slightly.

Paimon: Uh… yeah, we met him. But let's just say…

She hesitated, searching for the right words, while Aether let out a small sigh.

Aether: He didn't really teach us much. He has… his own way of seeing things.

In their minds, they recalled the countless times Mondstadt's Archon had shown himself to be… well, free-spirited—more interested in music and wine than sharing any truly important revelations.

Paimon: To put it simply, he really lives up to his title as the God of Wind and Freedom. He lives his life with so much… carefreeness that he didn't even give us anything truly useful to work with. And Paimon bet that right now, that Tone-Deaf— ahem I mean, I imagine that dear Archon of ours is off somewhere, drinking with a bottle in hand.

She let out a tired sigh, as if the explanation itself had drained more energy than she wanted to admit.

Sora raised an eyebrow, half amused, half incredulous.

Sora: That's… surprising. I didn't think a deity could take it that easy.

Aether: That's one way to put it. But even if his methods are very different from other nations, I can assure you that he'll always keep Mondstadt's safety in mind.

Sora nodded, understanding that there were many ways to protect the ones you care about—even for a god.

Sora: As long as he still thinks about those who believe in him, that's all that matters.

He let his thoughts wander for a moment before turning back to his friends, a determined glint in his eyes.

Sora: In that case, no matter what awaits us in Liyue, I'm sure we'll find something. Whether it's about your sister or Kairi, you can count on my help.

Moved by his words, Paimon puffed out her chest and declared with enthusiasm:

Paimon: Of course! We know we can always count on you, Sora!

Aether gave him a grateful look. The night was calm, but their hearts were filled with hope. Tomorrow morning, a new journey awaited them. Who knew what the future had in store?

---

(Genshin Impact OST - Another Day in Mondstadt)

The first rays of sunlight illuminated the city. The night had passed in the blink of an eye, and now it was time for the trio to head toward their next destination: Liyue. Having left their inn, the three friends walked through the streets, their hearts light yet tinged with a strange melancholy. They knew that leaving Mondstadt meant leaving behind a place where they had created precious memories.

As they prepared to pass through the grand arch marking the city's exit, familiar voices called out to them.

? ? ?: Hey, you weren't planning on leaving without saying goodbye, were you?

At the sound of that voice, they recognized it instantly. Turning around, their suspicions were confirmed. The voice belonged to a certain outrider.

Paimon: Amber!

Amber stood there, a warm expression on her face. Beside her, Kaeya wore his usual relaxed smirk, while Lisa cast a tender, almost motherly gaze toward the trio. Jean, standing tall and dignified, offered them a sincere smile.

Sora: You're all here.

Kaeya: Of course. You didn't think you could sneak out of the city without us noticing, did you?

Sora chuckled softly, amused by Kaeya's teasing tone.

Sora: We didn't want to bother you this early in the morning.

Lisa: Fufufu, oh, it's no trouble at all. Besides, you two are the heroes who saved Mondstadt. There was no way we'd let you leave without a proper farewell.

Jean: Lisa is right. After everything you've done for us, it would've been rude not to see you off.

Amber: Next time you come back to Mondstadt, we'll have already taken care of the remaining Heartless. That way, you'll be able to enjoy everything the city has to offer without any worries!

Paimon: Really? That's so reassuring to hear!

As Amber continued to proudly talk about her beloved city, Sora, realizing he was about to explore a new region, turned toward Jean, a spark of curiosity in his eyes.

Sora: By the way, Jean… Thanks to you and everyone else, I now understand what makes Mondstadt thrive and what makes it unique. Since we're heading to Liyue, is there anything we should know about this region?

Jean, understanding the genuine interest behind his question, gave him a warm look before answering.

Jean: Of course, Sora. I'd be happy to tell you more. Liyue is a fascinating nation, quite different from Mondstadt.

She crossed her arms, pondering the best way to summarize things.

Jean: Unlike the plains and rolling hills of Mondstadt, Liyue's landscape is mostly mountainous, dotted with impressive rock formations. But what truly defines the region is, its harbor—Liyue Harbor.

Lisa then chimed in, her voice soft and almost melodic.

Lisa: The harbor is the beating heart of the region. It's a thriving hub where trade and international exchange flourish. Merchants from all corners of Teyvat gather there.

Kaeya, adding a hint of mystery with his signature enigmatic smile, remarked:

Kaeya: And unlike Mondstadt, where our Archon watches over us from the shadows, in Liyue, the Geo Archon plays a much more central role. But he isn't the only one. The region is also governed by a powerful council known as the Liyue Qixing.

Sora raised an eyebrow, intrigued by the mention.

Sora: The Qixing?

Jean: Yes. They are leaders elected from among the most capable citizens. Together, they manage the region's affairs, including trade and security. Their system of governance is unique and reflects Liyue's pragmatic and disciplined spirit.

Lisa: Here in Mondstadt, order and security are maintained by the Knights of Favonius. In Liyue, that responsibility falls upon the Qixing.

Jean nodded, continuing with a serious expression.

Jean: In fact, I even correspond with one of its members from time to time. Her name is Ningguang.

Sora: Ningguang, huh?

Jean: Yes. She is the Tianquan of the Qixing—one of the most influential figures in all of Liyue. Aside from the Geo Archon himself, she is likely the most respected and well-informed person in the port. If anything significant happens there, she probably knows about it.

Pausing for a moment, she tapped her chin thoughtfully.

Jean: Now that I think about it, perhaps I should've written you a letter of recommendation. It might have made arranging a meeting with her easier.

Sora waved his hand, a confident look on his face.

Sora: Don't worry. If we get the chance to meet her, we just have to explain our situation, right? I'm sure she'll agree to help us.

Paimon crossed her arms, raising a skeptical eyebrow.

Paimon: You say that like it's easy to become friends with someone as important as her.

Sora turned to Jean with a playful laugh.

Sora: Look at Jean. We became friends with her, didn't we?

Caught off guard, Paimon hesitated before relenting.

Paimon: ...Okay, fair point.

The remark amused the group, especially Amber, Kaeya, and Lisa. The latter spoke up with a light chuckle.

Lisa: Like I said, Liyue Harbor is a place where tradition and business blend seamlessly. Expect to see bustling markets, ships loaded with goods from every region, and an organization that, I must admit, might seem a bit rigid at first glance.

Kaeya smirked before adding his own insight.

Kaeya: I've had the chance to visit Liyue on certain missions. It's a major hub for trade between the seven nations of Teyvat. But here's a tip for you three—be careful who you trust there. In a place where business is king, everyone has their own interests.

Sora nodded, processing everything he had just learned.

Sora: I see… Liyue seems completely different from Mondstadt. Everything here is so free and relaxed.

Jean agreed with a nod.

Jean: That's true, but that's what makes Liyue unique. The Geo Archon, known as Rex Lapis, plays a very special role there. Not only does he protect the region, but he's also revered as the god of contracts. Every year, the people hold a ritual to honor his visit, share his wisdom, and receive his blessings.

Lisa added with a wink:

Lisa: It's called the Rite of Descension, during which the Archon descends from Celestia to interact with the people. And if I'm not mistaken, it should be happening soon.

With Jean, Kaeya, and Lisa having finished their explanations, Sora let out a small sigh, as if trying to take in everything he had just learned. A smile lit up his face.

Sora: Oh. Thanks, really. Thanks to you, I think we have a much better idea of what awaits us in Liyue.

Jean responded with a gentle smile, clasping her hands in front of her.

Jean: It was a pleasure to help you. And if you ever need assistance or more information, don't hesitate to write to us. We'll do our best to support you, even from afar.

Kaeya, ever relaxed, leaned casually against the wall of a nearby house.

Kaeya: Take care, heroes. Adventures can be unpredictable, and I'm sure Liyue has a few surprises in store for you. But I have no doubt you'll handle whatever comes your way.

Lisa, on the other hand, placed a finger on her chin, a thoughtful look softening her features.

Lisa: Enjoy the journey. Liyue is a land rich in culture and history. You might end up discovering far more than what you're looking for.

Amber, who had remained silent, suddenly broke the moment with her usual enthusiasm.

Amber: And don't just come back—make sure to tell us all about your adventures in detail!

Paimon, touched by their words, puffed up her chest with determination.

Paimon: Don't worry! With Paimon as the supreme guide, everything will go smoothly!

Sora and Aether exchanged amused glances. And after bidding their final farewells to Jean, Lisa, Kaeya, and Amber, the young Keyblade wielder paused for a moment, looking at the grand arch of Mondstadt standing before them. A thought crossed his mind, and almost instinctively, he softly murmured:

Sora: "May our hearts be the guiding key".

The group froze for a moment, surprised by the phrase that seemed so full of meaning. Aether turned his head toward Sora, intrigued, while Paimon floated in front of him, hands on her hips.

Paimon: Huh? What's with the mysterious phrase, Sora?

Even Jean, Lisa, Kaeya, and Amber exchanged curious glances. Caught off guard by their reactions, Sora gave a slightly sheepish smile.

Sora: Oh, that? It's nothing special. It's an old saying that Master Yen Sid taught me. One day, he said this phrase: "May your hearts be the guiding key".

Sora placed a hand over his chest, a soft, nostalgic glow in his eyes.

Sora: Apparently, it's an ancient motto, something Keyblade wielders would say to each other before heading out on a mission. A sort of mantra to remind themselves that no matter where they go, their heart will always know the way.

Paimon, visibly intrigued, scratched her head.

Paimon: Hmm, that sounds really cool, but… do you actually know what it means?

Sora chuckled softly, shaking his head.

Sora: Not completely, to be honest. But I know it's about following what we feel deep inside, about believing in what we protect. Before every great adventure, we'd say it, like a way to bring good luck.

Jean, touched by this explanation, smiled gently.

Jean: It's a beautiful motto. It reflects a lot of what Mondstadt represents as well—following your heart, living in harmony with your beliefs, and protecting what is dear.

Lisa placed a hand on her chin, pondering the phrase.

Lisa: It's certainly catchy, but more than that, I think it holds great wisdom. The most important decisions often come from the heart, after all.

Amber, ever full of enthusiasm, raised a fist in the air.

Amber: In that case, I'm going to use it too! "May our hearts be the guiding key"… whoa, just saying it makes me want to go on an adventure!

Kaeya, amused by Amber's passion, added in a lighthearted tone:

Kaeya: Who knows, Sora? Maybe this motto will become famous in Mondstadt thanks to you.

Sora laughed as well, shaking his head softly.

Sora: If it helps people remember what truly matters, then why not?

Aether crossed his arms, thinking about the phrase.

Aether: "May our hearts be the guiding key"… It really does have something comforting about it. Like a reminder that no matter where we go, we'll always find our way.

Paimon: Yeah, not bad at all! But Paimon still prefer being the one to guide you, you know!

Everyone burst into laughter at that remark, the mood lightening as the trio finally prepared to set off.

Sora: Thank you for everything. Not just for what you did today, but for everything you've done since we arrived in Mondstadt. You've been there for us, and we'll never forget it.

Aether nodded, a warm smile on his lips.

Aether: You've been valuable allies, but more than that, friends. We'll come back one day—that's a promise.

Jean: And we'll be here to welcome you with open arms. Take care, all three of you.

Sora, Aether, and Paimon turned to face the archway marking the exit from Mondstadt. They paused one last time, glancing over their shoulders.

Paimon: See you soon, Mondstadt. And see you soon, all of you.

With that, they walked away, their silhouettes gradually fading into the horizon as the first rays of sunlight illuminated the path toward Liyue. The four left behind watched them go, each with a different expression—Jean, filled with pride; Kaeya, intrigued by what the future held for them; Lisa, serene and confident; and Amber, overflowing with hope and excitement.

Amber: You think they'll be okay?

Jean nodded, her gaze fixed on the horizon.

Jean: I'm certain of it. Together, they're strong.

Kaeya: And I'm curious to see just how far their adventure will take them.

Lisa, casting one last glance toward the archway, murmured softly.

Lisa: Good luck, my dear adventurers.

And with those words, Mondstadt returned to its peaceful rhythm.

---

(Genshin Impact OST - The Edge of the Prairie)

Sora, Aether, and Paimon walked along the path leading to Liyue, the surrounding mountains and rolling hills stretching endlessly beneath a clear sky. The fresh air, filled with the promise of adventure, sent a thrill of excitement through Sora.

Sora: Finally, a new destination! I can't wait to see what Liyue has to offer.

He grinned widely, clenching his fists with enthusiasm.

Sora: Traveling to different worlds is always amazing, but staying in one place for a while, getting to know the land and its people… That's going to be a whole new experience.

Aether nodded, his gaze fixed on the horizon.

Aether: That's true. Every region has its own history, its own traditions. That's what makes traveling so fascinating.

Paimon, floating in front of them, crossed her arms with a determined expression.

Paimon: Then let's not waste any time! We need to get to Liyue as soon as possible! Who knows, maybe we'll find some clues there to help you find your lost friends!

Sora chuckled at Paimon's enthusiasm.

Sora: Yeah, but taking our time to enjoy the journey is important too, you know.

As they continued walking, Sora suddenly stopped, his eyes widening slightly.

Sora: …

He turned his head, scanning the area as if searching for something.

Aether: Sora?

Paimon pivoted toward him, visibly concerned.

Paimon: What's wrong?

Sora slowly shook his head, looking puzzled.

Sora: I… heard something. A voice.

Paimon took a small step back, an exaggerated look of panic crossing her face.

Paimon: A voice?! Don't tell me it's… a ghost?!

At that, Aether shot Paimon a doubtful look. Before Sora could answer, a light breeze began to swirl around them. It quickly grew stronger, forming a spiraling wind that encircled Sora, lifting his brown locks and making his hood flutter.

Sora: What the…?

The trio watched in astonishment as the wind formed a perfect circle around Sora. It almost seemed alive, dancing around him before rising gently into the air. The breeze condensed into a shimmering whirlwind before rushing off toward the east.

Paimon: Uh… can someone explain what just happened?!

Sora stared in the direction the wind had taken, a determined glint in his eyes.

Sora: Maybe this wind… is trying to guide us.

Paimon looked at him, puzzled.

Paimon: Guide us? You seriously think that weird thing is some kind of sign?

Sora: Yeah. I don't know why, but I feel like it's connected to the voice I heard.

Paimon let out a loud sigh before finally shrugging.

Paimon: Fine, but if this leads us into a trap or some kind of ghost, you're taking full responsibility!

Aether remained silent, a thought crossing his mind—an intuition. He had a feeling he already knew who might be behind this.

Sora didn't wait any longer. His curiosity and excitement took over, and he broke into a run, following the wind's path.

Sora: We won't know unless we check it out!

Paimon quickly floated after him, making sure not to lose sight of him.

Paimon: Hey! Wait for us, Sora!

Aether sighed lightly before running after them, staying on alert.

The trio continued following the mysterious wind's direction, with Paimon floating slightly ahead while darting quick glances around.

Paimon: Wait a second… The direction we're heading… isn't this leading us straight to Windrise?

Sora narrowed his eyes and looked ahead. Sure enough, he could see the massive, majestic tree standing proudly in the distance, its branches spreading a lush canopy like a giant umbrella.

Sora: That's true… That's the same tree I saw yesterday.

He slowed down slightly, his gaze drifting into his memories.

Sora: I didn't really get a chance to admire it yesterday. I was too busy fighting the Heartless with Amber…

Aether, meanwhile, silently observed the place they were approaching. A certain certainty was reflected in his eyes.

Aether: If this is where we're being led, then I already know who's waiting for us.

(Genshin Impact OST - Pure Sky)

After a short walk, they finally arrived beneath the colossal tree of Windrise. Its enormous foliage blocked the direct sunlight, creating a vast, soothing shade where the gentle rustling of leaves echoed in the air. The place felt almost sacred, as if time itself slowed down, allowing visitors to fully appreciate its serenity.

Sora: Whoa… This tree is even more impressive up close.

He looked up, admiring the towering structure.

Sora: There's something special about this place… It feels almost alive.

Paimon: Hey, look over there!

She pointed toward a statue standing proudly nearby. The mysterious wind that had guided them now swirled around it, as if signaling that they had reached their destination.

Sora stepped closer to the statue, intrigued. Looking up, he noticed a stone figure at the top, posed in a familiar way, resembling the enormous statue he had seen in Mondstadt.

Sora: What's this statue?

Aether took a step forward, crossing his arms as he answered calmly.

Aether: It's a Statue of The Seven.

Paimon, floating around Sora, added in her usual tone.

Paimon: There are a few of these statues scattered across the land to show The Seven's protection over the world.

Sora examined the statue more closely, noticing the intricate details in the sculpture.

Sora: So, I guess this one represents the Anemo Archon?

Paimon: Exactly! Each region has its own statues that honor the Archon who protects it. Just as a reminder, Mondstadt's Archon is Barbatos, the Anemo Archon.

The atmosphere grew livelier as Paimon, floating beside Sora, suddenly seemed to remember something important.

Paimon: Oh, right, Sora! Did you know that Aether got his Anemo powers from a statue just like this one?

Sora turned to Aether in surprise.

Sora: Really?

Aether gave a small nod, his expression calm.

Aether: Yeah, it's true.

To prove his words, he stepped forward and placed a steady hand on the base of the statue. Immediately, a soft turquoise light shimmered around him. The patterns on his outfit began to glow, resonating harmoniously with the statue. The wind around them stirred slightly, as if responding to his silent call.

Sora watched the scene, mouth slightly agape.

Sora: That's… incredible. And honestly, really cool!

Paimon: Right?! But don't go thinking just anyone can gain a power like that so easily!

Aether: Paimon's right. This isn't something just anyone can do.

Sora crossed his arms, pondering over what he had just witnessed.

Sora: I believe you. In my case, I had to train hard to use magic with my Keyblade. And even then, most of the time, the spells just kind of came to me naturally… like I instinctively knew them after facing strong enemies.

Aether nodded, his gaze drifting off into thought.

Aether: Well, I can't exactly explain how I do it either. But if I had to guess, I'd say it's because…

He hesitated for a moment, his expression uncertain.

Sora: Because what?

Paimon: Because Aether not from this world to begin with, right?

Sora looked at Aether with a mix of surprise and curiosity. Aether, on his part, remained calm, as if he had expected this revelation. However, Sora accepted it with surprising ease. To him, it almost seemed normal.

Sora: Oh, that explains a lot. Now I get it.

He paused for a moment, his mind racing. A bold yet intriguing idea had just formed.

Sora: If we follow that logic… does that mean I could gain powers like yours by touching the statue?

Paimon's eyes widened in shock, while Aether crossed his arms, deep in thought.

Paimon: Huh?! Wait a second! You mean you could wield Anemo powers like Aether?!

Aether: It's an interesting hypothesis. After all, no one really knows how these statues react to those who aren't from Teyvat.

Sora shrugged with a confident grin.

Sora: Well, there's only one way to find out, right? Worst case, nothing happens.

Paimon, looking nervous, waved her arms frantically.

Paimon: Nothing to lose?! What if it causes some weird reaction or something?! You already wield the Keyblade, don't you?!

Sora: Well, it wouldn't be the first time I've been through something strange like this.

Aether glanced at the Statue of the Seven, thoughtful.

Aether: I have to admit, I'm curious to see if your theory holds up. You've already proven that you're not like everyone else.

Paimon: Ugh, fine… but if something goes wrong, don't say Paimon didn't warn you!

Sora stepped toward the statue, a hint of excitement in his eyes. He slowly reached out, hesitating for a brief moment before placing his hand on the stone base—right where Aether had touched it moments earlier.

For a moment, nothing happened. Then, a faint vibration pulsed from the statue, accompanied by a soft, shimmering light across its surface. The wind around Sora stirred gently, brushing against his clothes and hair. A strange sensation coursed through him—like a flowing energy, making his body feel lighter, freer in movement.

Pulling his hand away, Sora smiled in amusement. Intrigued, he extended his hand again, trying to sense any change. Mimicking Aether's stance when using his powers, he attempted to summon a small vortex similar to his companion's. But nothing happened.

Sora: Well, it didn't exactly give me Anemo powers… but I definitely felt something. Maybe that means something?

Paimon: Hmmm… Maybe it's because you're not exactly like Aether. Even if you're both from other worlds, there must be differences, right?

Aether: That's possible. These statues might react differently depending on the individual.

Sora crossed his arms, still intrigued.

Sora: Maybe it's because I already use a form of wind magic… That could explain why I didn't feel a major change when I touched the statue.

Aether and Paimon exchanged glances before nodding.

Paimon: Hmm… That could be a good theory. After all, you already use that Keyblade to cast all kinds of spells, don't you?

Aether: It's plausible. Your connection to your magic might be interfering with what the statue was trying to transfer to you… or maybe even enhancing it.

Sora pondered for a moment longer before, in one fluid motion, summoning his Keyblade.

Sora: There's only one way to find out. I'll try using one of my wind spells. You two should step back.

Paimon blinked, suddenly wary.

Paimon: Wait! Are you sure this is a good idea?!

Aether placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder.

Aether: Don't worry. I'm sure Sora knows what he's doing.

Gently taking Paimon's hand, he guided her back to a safer distance. The duo moved away as Sora closed his eyes, focusing intently. He took a deep breath, raising his Keyblade above his head in a confident motion.

Sora: I'll start with Aeroga. It's already a pretty strong spell, but if that statue somehow amplified my magic without me realizing…

With a swift circular motion, he lowered his Keyblade, activating the spell.

Sora: Aeroga!

A powerful vortex of air instantly formed around him. However, to his great surprise, the magic was far more intense than expected.

Sora: Huh?! What the—?!

The usual mini-vortex had been replaced by a swirling cyclone. Though smaller than a hurricane, it was strong enough to shake the leaves of the giant tree and lift debris off the ground.

Sora: This isn't normal!

The cyclone seemed uncontrollable, surpassing even the strength of Aeroga's most advanced form. The wind, spiraling with force, was pulling in everything nearby.

Paimon: Hey! What's going on?!

Completely caught off guard, Paimon flailed her arms desperately, trying not to be swept away. But her small size and light weight worked against her.

Paimon: Sora, stop it right now! Paimon gonna get blown away!

Aether, though surprised himself, reacted quickly. He grabbed Paimon by the waist and planted his feet firmly into the ground, struggling to withstand the force of the wind.

Aether: Sora, try to control your spell!

Sora, gripping his Keyblade tightly with both hands, fought against the unexpected intensity of his own magic.

Sora: I'm trying! But… it's way stronger than I expected!

Meanwhile, at the entrance to Mondstadt, the cyclone was visible from miles away. Lawrence and Swan, the stationed guards, watched the scene in shock.

Lawrence: What the… a cyclone?! Here?!

Swan: It's coming from the direction of Windrise. It must be an elemental anomaly… or something else.

Lawrence: Should we go notify the Acting Grand Master?

Back near the statue, Sora felt his strength wavering under the pressure of the energy. He planted his Keyblade into the ground, using it as an anchor, and focused all his might on dissipating the spell. Little by little, the cyclone lost its intensity, the wind weakened, and the air returned to calm.

Silence fell over the clearing, broken only by the rustling leaves settling back into peace. Sora collapsed to his knees, exhausted but with a relieved smile on his face.

Sora: Well… I wasn't expecting that.

Paimon flew toward him, arms crossed and an irritated expression on her face.

Paimon: What was that?! A miniature cyclone that could've swept everything away—including Paimon! You could've been more careful!

Sora: Heh heh… Sorry about that.

Aether, on the other hand, remained calm but clearly impressed.

Aether: That spell… It was way stronger than what you described.

Sora nodded, still deep in thought.

Sora: Yeah. Maybe it's the statue. Maybe it's amplifying my powers in a way I don't fully understand yet.

Paimon, still wary but intrigued, glanced at the statue.

Paimon: If that's really the case, we'd better be careful next time. Who knows what else it might trigger?

Sora slowly got back on his feet, his Keyblade still in hand, his gaze fixed on the statue. He seemed lost in thought, the recent events swirling through his mind. He furrowed his brows, thinking out loud.

Sora: The power of that spell surpassed anything I've ever done before. Could it be… Aeroza?

Paimon: Aeroza? What's that?

She tilted her head to the side, clearly intrigued.

Sora: According to what I've learned from Master Yen Sid, Z-level spells are the most advanced forms of magic. They go far beyond what even an experienced magic user could normally hope to master.

He paused, his expression turning more serious.

Sora: Master Xehanort, for example, used Stopza. That spell was on a completely different level.

Aether: So these spells are reserved for a select few, right?

Sora: That's right. Master Yen Sid told me that only those who have become Keyblade Masters can hope to use them. And even for them, it takes years of rigorous training and a perfect mastery of their bond with their Keyblade.

Paimon: Wait a second… You're not a Keyblade Master yet, are you?

Sora shook his head with a slightly sheepish smile.

Sora: Not yet, no. I still have a long way to go. But what just happened here…

He gripped his Keyblade slightly, his eyes narrowing in deep thought.

Sora: If that really was a Z-level spell, then it can only mean one thing: this statue must have had something to do with it. It amplified my wind magic exponentially. Otherwise, how could I have cast such a spell when I'm not even a certified Master yet?

Paimon tapped her chin with her tiny finger, adopting a thoughtful pose.

Paimon: Hmm… So, what do we do now?

Sora: If I really can use Z-level spells, then I have to learn how to control them. Without mastery, they could end up causing more harm than intended.

Paimon: Sounds like a solid plan. Because honestly, I don't want to get caught up in your cyclone again.

Aether, who had been quietly observing the scene up until now, finally spoke with a calm demeanor.

Aether: Sora… Are you sure the blessing of the statue only granted you this power boost?

Sora shrugged slightly, glancing up at the statue with a thoughtful expression.

Sora: Hard to say. I feel a certain lightness, like something inside me has changed. But I don't know yet how it might manifest…

As Sora remained lost in thought, a clear and cheerful voice suddenly rang through the air.

? ? ? : Well, that was quite the entertaining show!

Sora's head snapped up, pulled from his thoughts.

Sora: That voice…

Paimon jolted slightly in the air.

Paimon: Hey, wait a second… I know that voice!

Aether remained still, but his gaze hardened slightly. He seemed to recognize the speaker, though he didn't display the same level of surprise as Paimon.

The voice echoed again, this time accompanied by a light chuckle.

? ? ? : Heh, it was interesting to see you play with the wind like that. I don't think I've ever seen anyone manipulate the Anemo element in that way before. Keyblade Masters sure are something.

Sora furrowed his brows, scanning his surroundings before looking up. That's when he saw the figure speaking.

Sora: It's you?!

Perched on one of the massive branches of the tree was a young boy Sora had met before, dressed in green and idly strumming a lyre.

Sora: Venti!

Venti: Yahoo! Good to see you again, Sora.

The young bard grinned widely, waving at them in greeting.

Paimon: The tone-deaf bard?!

Venti: Ah, Traveler, Paimon, we meet again.

Still taken aback, Sora watched as Venti straightened up casually on the branch. Then, to everyone's surprise, the bard suddenly leaped into the air. At first startled by his action, Sora quickly noticed a gentle gust of wind surrounding Venti, slowing his descent. He landed gracefully in front of the trio, the breeze dispersing in a soothing whisper.

Venti: Ta-da! How's it going?

Sora: What are you doing here, Venti?

The bard tilted his head slightly, a mischievous smile on his lips.

Venti: Oh? Can't I pay a visit to some friends? I knew that the Traveler and Paimon were planning to head to Liyue, but I wasn't expecting you to be with them too.

He paused briefly before putting on a mock pout and continuing.

Venti: Besides, that was kinda mean of you, you know? Not telling me about something like this.

Sora: Ah… Uh… I guess you're right, so… sorry?

He awkwardly ran a hand through his hair, clearly caught off guard by the remark. Before he could explain further, Paimon stepped in.

Paimon: No need to feel guilty, Sora. If Paimon know this tone-deaf bard well, even if we had gone looking for him, we'd probably have found him passed out drunk somewhere. Is Paimon wrong?

Venti ran a hand through his hair in a manner similar to Sora, feigning embarrassment.

Venti: Oops, guess I got caught?

Paimon: See?

Venti: But I was being sincere! I really did want to see you, Sora.

Sora: Really?

Venti: Of course. I wanted to properly thank you. After all, you and Aether helped protect Mondstadt from that assault… What did you call them again? Ah, yes—Heartless. That's why I wanted to express my gratitude.

The young bard then flashed a warm smile.

Venti: Thank you for keeping our beautiful city safe, where joy and laughter still dance with the timeless melody of the wind. I'll make sure your courage is sung about for generations to come in Mondstadt.

Feeling a bit overwhelmed by Venti's sincere yet grand praise, Sora glanced away slightly.

Sora: Well… thanks. But, you know, you don't have to go that far. I don't think what we did deserves that much praise. For me, what matters is making sure no one gets hurt, not seeking any kind of recognition.

Venti gently shook his head, his usual playful demeanor giving way to something more solemn.

Venti: On the contrary, Sora. It's important for people to understand the dangers threatening Mondstadt, just as it's essential to acknowledge those who fight to keep them safe.

His gaze grew more serious, his words carrying a rare weight.

Venti: That's even more true for me, because I need to be aware of the changes that will unfold in this world from now on.

Intrigued, Sora furrowed his brows, trying to grasp the meaning behind those cryptic words.

Sora: What exactly do you mean by that?

A silence settled in, broken only by the whisper of the wind as if time itself had paused. Venti, usually so carefree, hesitated before answering, as if carefully choosing his words. Then, a playful yet gentle smile lit up his face.

Venti: Ah, that's right… You're the only one here who doesn't know yet. When we first met, I introduced myself to you as Venti. But today, I'd like to introduce myself by my true name.

Sora: Your true name?

Venti took a step forward, placing a hand over his heart with a theatrical grace. A light breeze rose around him, making his hair and cape flutter.

Venti: Yes. Allow me to introduce myself again. My name is Barbatos.

Sora felt his heart skip a beat. That name—he had heard it before from his friends in Mondstadt.

Sora: Wait, Barbatos!? But that name…

Venti nodded softly, an enigmatic smile playing on his lips.

Venti: Yes. That is the true name of the Anemo Archon. In other words, the one standing before you is none other than the real Anemo Archon.

The shock of the revelation made Sora take a step back, his eyes widening.

Sora: Seriously?

He immediately turned to Aether and Paimon, searching for confirmation from them.

Sora: Did you guys know about this? Aether? Paimon?

Looking uncomfortable, Paimon averted her gaze, scratching the back of her head awkwardly.

Paimon: Ah! Uh… it's possible that… yeah.

Aether crossed his arms, his expression remaining calm, though slightly guilty.

Aether: It's not that we wanted to keep the truth from you, but we thought it wasn't the right time yet to reveal his identity.

Paimon: Yeah, yeah, that's it! Besides, he's the one who asked us to keep it secret. The tone-deaf bard wanted his identity to stay hidden.

Sora let out a slow breath, processing the information as it came. He didn't feel any anger toward his friends, only deep surprise.

Sora: Oh! Don't worry. I'm not really mad, you know. I get it. I'm just… surprised, that's all.

After a moment of thought, he asked another, more composed question.

Sora: Are there others who know about this?

Paimon: Yeah, Grand Master Jean and Master Diluc.

Sora cast one last glance at Venti—or rather, Barbatos—still struggling to process this revelation. The Anemo Archon himself was standing before him… and yet, he was still the same carefree, laughing, and playful bard.

But why now? Why reveal the truth to him at this precise moment?

The wind picked up slightly, as if the answer was floating in the air, elusive. Sora furrowed his brows and voiced the question that had been burning inside him.

Sora: But… why tell me all this now? Why reveal your identity at this exact moment?

Venti crossed his arms and lifted his gaze to the sky. His usual cheerful expression had grown more serious—almost melancholic.

Venti: Because as one of the Seven, I can feel that Teyvat is on the verge of change.

Sora raised an eyebrow at his remark.

Venti: I don't know yet if this change will be for the better… or if it will mark the beginning of a new era of chaos. But what I do know is that the winds whisper warnings I can't ignore.

His gaze locked onto Sora, piercing, as if trying to read his soul.

Venti: These dark creatures… these Heartless, as you call them. They appeared out of nowhere. Never before had I heard of such a threat. And yet, I have lived for centuries. Now, they are here, spreading their darkness over our world.

Sora pressed his lips together. He understood exactly what Venti meant. Ever since he had traveled between worlds, the Heartless had followed him like a shadow. Wherever he went, the threat either preceded or pursued him. It wasn't a coincidence—it was his fate as a Keyblade wielder.

Venti: As an Archon who values freedom, I have always chosen to let Mondstadt's people live freely, allowing them to handle their own destinies without my direct intervention. But in the face of this new threat, I could no longer just stand by and watch.

He paused, then his playful smile returned.

Venti: Until the day you appeared before me.

Sora looked at him in surprise.

Venti: Two days ago, when we first met, you declared that you would take responsibility for this threat. Those words piqued my curiosity… and gave me a reason to watch you more closely.

A shiver ran down Sora's spine as he recalled that moment.

Venti: By the way, do you remember when you had to face that massive swarm of Heartless that appeared in Springvale?

Sora nodded.

Sora: You mean the attack of the Demon Tide? Of course. That's impossible to forget.

Venti: Well… I helped you.

Sora blinked, caught off guard.

Sora: What?

The bard chuckled softly before explaining.

Venti: When that tide of Heartless swept over Mondstadt, threatening to consume everything… do you remember how you and Aether managed to reach the city in time?

Sora thought for a moment, then his eyes widened slightly.

Sora: Wait… that wind…

A memory resurfaced. That day, as he rushed to intercept the Demonic Tide, a sudden, powerful gust of wind had lifted him and Aether, carrying them at an incredible speed straight to Mondstadt's gates. At the time, he had chalked it up to luck. But now…

Sora: …That was you. You were the one who helped us reach Mondstadt?

Venti tilted his head slightly, his smile widening.

Venti: Exactly.

Aether, who had remained silent until now, spoke up, confirming the bard's words.

Aether: It's not the first time he's done that. During the Stormterror incident, Venti also helped me fly to chase after the dragon and try to stop him. I'll never forget that feeling… the sensation of being carried by a guiding wind.

Venti twirled his lyre between his fingers before adding:

Venti: And that's not all. When that… Demon Tide headed for the Church of Favonius…

Sora tensed slightly upon hearing those words. He remembered that moment vividly. He, Aether, Jean, and Lisa had fought together against an endless wave of Heartless. Just as a massive shadowy creature was about to crush the church beneath its weight, an invisible wall of wind had risen, stopping the attack at the last second.

Sora: That barrier… that was you too?

Venti closed his eyes, letting out a lighthearted laugh.

Venti: Who else could it have been?

Sora crossed his arms, trying to take it all in. From the very beginning, Venti had been there, watching over them from the shadows, ready to step in if things got out of hand. This carefree bard, who always seemed more interested in wine and music, was in truth the Anemo Archon, and he had been fighting alongside them long before they realized it.

The wind blew through the city once more, carrying with it a message that only Venti seemed to understand.

Venti: Do you understand now, Sora? The wind is always watching… even when it doesn't speak.

Sora took a deep breath before offering a small smile.

Sora: Yeah… I think I'm starting to understand.

He looked at Venti, and for the first time since they met, he no longer saw just a carefree bard. He saw the Anemo Archon, a silent guardian watching over Mondstadt and its people… and in a way, watching over him as well.

For a moment, Sora got lost in thought. The idea that Venti, despite his divine status, chose to observe and protect his people without directly intervening intrigued him. It reminded him of another figure he knew well—Hercules.

He, too, was of divine nature, though only half. They were alike and yet different. Hercules, the active hero, never hesitated to fight on the front lines. Venti, on the other hand, watched from the shadows, shaping fate like an invisible breeze. Two different ways of acting, but the same goal—to protect those they cared about.

Sora then flashed a sincere smile and met Venti's gaze.

Sora: Venti… Thank you. For everything you've done. Thanks to you, we were able to defend Mondstadt. And now that I know I can count on you, I hope you'll keep watching over us.

The bard blinked before bursting into laughter, as if the words amused him.

Venti: Of course! You can call on me anytime you need a little gust of wind in your favor.

He playfully waved his hand, sending a swirl of fallen leaves dancing around them.

Venti: But tell me, Sora… Now that I've shared my true identity with you, I think it's only fair that I learn a little more about you too.

Sora raised an eyebrow, intrigued.

Venti: I know you're special, much like the Traveler here. These events unfolding… and those yet to come… I have a feeling they're all connected to you in some way.

Sora immediately understood what he meant. After all, Venti had just revealed who he really was. It was only fair to do the same in return.

Sora: Alright. I'll tell you everything.

He took a deep breath, gathering his thoughts. Then, he began his story.

From the day he left his home island to discovering the infinite worlds beyond. From his encounters with Donald and Goofy to his battles against Ansem, Organization XIII, and Xehanort. He spoke of the Keyblade War, the fall of the New Organization XIII, the battle against Master Xehanort, and the role he played in maintaining the balance between hearts and darkness.

As he recounted his journey, Aether and Paimon, having already heard this tale before, listened without surprise. But Venti, on the other hand, was completely captivated by his words.

Time passed without them realizing. Sora shared his adventures with genuine passion, while the wind gently swirled around them, as if whispering answers to Venti's unspoken questions.

When Sora finally finished, silence settled between them. Venti closed his eyes, taking in everything he had just heard.

Venti: …You truly are one of a kind, Sora.

He opened his eyes, a curious gleam shining in his gaze.

Venti: I already held you in high regard… but now that I know your story, I can say without hesitation that you are truly extraordinary.

The bard sighed and let his gaze drift toward the horizon.

Venti: Thanks to you, I now understand the true nature of these Heartless. They're not just creatures that appeared at random… but manifestations of darkness, controlled by those who know how to manipulate them.

He tapped his chin thoughtfully.

Venti: This Organization XIII… if they are still operating in the shadows, then I'll have to be more vigilant than ever.

His mind wandered to a recent memory.

Venti: Speaking of which… something has been bothering me.

Sora lifted his head, intrigued.

Venti: Do you remember the mission you went on with Amber in Windrise to eliminate the Heartless?

Sora nodded.

Venti: That day, I felt something. A dark presence… watching you.

A chill ran down Sora's spine.

Venti: Back then, I couldn't quite identify it. But if I compare it to what you just told me… and to the appearance of that dark figure after your battle against the Demon Tide…

He fixed Sora with a piercing gaze.

Venti: …Then it's possible that it was one of the members of this New Organization XIII you spoke of.

A heavy silence fell over the group.

Aether: We talked about it with Jean and the others. It's not impossible…

Paimon, a little panicked, waved her arms.

Paimon: Wait!? You mean they've been watching us this whole time!?

Sora: It wouldn't surprise me. That's how they operate. Hiding in the shadows, observing us, waiting for the right moment to strike…

He clenched his fists.

Sora: If one of them is here, then I can't just ignore it.

Sensing the atmosphere growing tense under the weight of these revelations, Venti decided it was time to lighten the mood. He flashed a mischievous smile and leaned forward slightly.

Venti: You know, you're much stronger than you think. If these individuals are truly behind all of this, then I'm certain of one thing…

He cast his sparkling gaze at Sora and Aether.

Venti: I wouldn't have any reason to worry if it's you two who plan to stop them.

Sora and Aether exchanged surprised looks. Paimon, on the other hand, puffed out her chest proudly.

Paimon: Of course, you can count on them! Aether and Paimon have been dealing with catastrophic situations since Dvalin!

Sora, touched by this show of confidence, nodded with a sincere smile.

Sora: Thanks, Venti. That really means a lot.

Then, he hesitated for a moment before asking the question that had been burning in his mind.

Sora: By the way… since you're an Archon, you must have seen a lot of things, right? Have you, by any chance… met Kairi?

Venti's expression grew a bit more serious. From everything Sora had told him, he immediately understood that this Kairi was the main reason for his journey here. Just as Aether was searching for his sister, Sora was traveling this world in search of the one most precious to him.

Unfortunately…

Venti: Hmm… Sorry, Sora, but from your description, I don't think I've ever met this girl. Not in this era… nor during my rare visits to Teyvat in the past.

Sora lowered his head slightly, a hint of disappointment appearing on his face. But he didn't let himself dwell on it for long. He knew this journey would be long and filled with obstacles.

Sora: …I see. Thanks anyway.

He quickly regained his enthusiasm.

Sora: In any case, I plan to head to Liyue. Maybe she's there. And in the meantime… I'll take down every Heartless that crosses my path!

Venti nodded but hesitated for a moment.

Venti: Since you're heading to Liyue, there's something I need to tell you.

Sora raised an eyebrow.

Sora: Really? Ah! Jean and the others already warned us about Liyue and its leaders.

Venti shook his head lightly.

Venti: Yes, yes… but what I want to tell you is about something else. And Aether and Paimon already know what I'm talking about.

Sora turned to his two companions, intrigued. Aether looked away slightly, while Paimon scratched the back of her head, visibly uneasy.

Sora: Wait… There's something else you forgot to tell me?

Paimon fidgeted, searching for an excuse.

Paimon: Ahaha… Well… you know, A LOT of things have happened, so of course, we might forget some details…

Sora sighed.

Sora: I feel like I'm never going to be fully in the loop…

Venti then continued, crossing his arms with a more serious expression.

Venti: Shortly after the crisis with Dvalin, an incident occurred. Something that happened directly to me.

Sora looked at him with a questioning expression.

Sora: Something that happened… to you?

The bard nodded, then declared in a light tone, though with a mysterious smile:

Venti: I was attacked.

Sora: …Wait!? What!?

The young man widened his eyes, unable to believe what he had just heard.

Sora: Hold on, hold on… You were attacked?

Venti: Well, I usually avoid direct conflicts… But yes.

Sora: But… who would dare attack you? I mean, you're an Archon… aren't you?

Venti's gaze darkened slightly.

Venti: A woman… who calls herself Signora.

Sora narrowed his eyes.

Sora: Signora? Never heard of her. Is she supposed to be famous?

Venti let out a sigh, looking exasperated.

Venti: Oh, she is. But not for good reasons. She's one of the Fatui Harbingers.

Sora opened his mouth, then froze.

Sora: The… Harbingers of what?

A long silence fell. Aether and Paimon exchanged a glance before sighing in unison.

Aether: It's true that we also forgot to tell him about this…

Paimon: That's starting to be a lot of information we should've given him, huh?

Paimon took a deep breath before turning to Sora, arms crossed.

Paimon: Alright, listen up, Sora. Signora isn't just anyone. She's one of the Fatui Harbingers, and the Fatui are a… very influential and dangerous organization from Snezhnaya.

Aether: They hide behind a diplomatic front, but in reality, their ambitions are far darker. They don't hesitate to use force or manipulation to achieve their goals.

Sora furrowed his brows. He was already familiar with the manipulations of Organization XIII. It didn't surprise him that another group used the same tactics, even if he wasn't thrilled about it.

Sora: So, they pretend to be officials, but in reality, they're enemies?

Venti: Hehe… You could say that. Let's just say their agenda goes far beyond what a normal person could imagine. And one of their secret objectives… was to get their hands on something that belongs to me.

The bard paused before continuing in a more serious tone.

Venti: An artifact called the Gnosis.

Sora tilted his head, intrigued.

Sora: The Gnosis? What is it, exactly?

Venti: It's a relic granted to the Archons by Celestia. It's a powerful artifact, directly tied to our divine nature. As the Anemo Archon, it once allowed me to exert an even greater influence over my element… and also gave me a unique connection to Celestia.

Sora: And Signora stole it from you… Is that right?

Venti: Exactly. There's a reason she holds the title of the 8th Harbinger. The Eleven Harbingers are the most powerful members of the Fatui. These individuals have been given god-like executive authority by the Tsaritsa of Snezhnaya, and with it, strength surpassing that of other mortals.

Sora: The Tsaritsa of Snezhnaya…?

Venti: Yes. The Tsaritsa who reigns from the Zapolyarny Palace. She is one of the Seven. In other words, she is the Cryo Archon. And the one person that the Fatui Harbingers all answer to.

Sora: Really? But why would the Cryo Archon want to steal your… what was it called again… Gnosis?

Venti: Who knows… The Seven don't always get along well, but still — I never thought that she would plot to steal another archon's Gnosis...

Hearing these explanations, Sora couldn't help but grow even more concerned. These Fatui… their methods eerily resembled those of Organization XIII. Sure, he doubted they sought to plunge worlds into darkness, but the way Aether, Paimon, and Venti described them made it clear they were willing to do anything to achieve their goals. And these Eleven Harbingers… they seemed similar to the members of Organization XIII, holding clear authority over their entire faction.

Venti spoke again, his tone more serious:

Venti: That's why I'm warning you. If you're traveling with Aether, there's a good chance you'll cross paths with these individuals sooner or later. The Fatui stop at nothing to accomplish their objectives, and from what we know… they'll also be after Liyue's Gnosis.

Sora: So you're saying that the one who holds Liyue's Gnosis might also be targeted?

Venti: Most certainly. I know Morax's reputation—the Archon of Liyue. I doubt he'd let his Gnosis be taken so easily. He has always been a wise and farsighted god.

Sora clenched his fists. He had just realized that not only did he have to watch out for the Heartless and Organization XIII, but now he also had to keep an eye on these Fatui. Still, worrying too much wasn't in his nature. He could only accept this new reality and keep moving forward, as he always had.

Sora let out a long breath, taking in everything Venti had just revealed. He had learned far more than he ever imagined when coming to Mondstadt. After a moment of reflection, he lifted his head and offered a sincere smile.

Sora: Venti… thanks for all your advice. Really. I don't know what's waiting for us in Liyue, but thanks to you, I feel like we'll be better prepared.

The bard responded with a smile, waving his hand through the air as if brushing away an invisible cloud.

Venti: Don't thank me too soon! If I told you all this, it's not just so you'd be ready for battle.

His expression softened, almost dreamy. He raised his eyes to the sky, watching the clouds drift slowly under the caress of the wind.

Venti: Sora… and you too, Aether… You, travelers from beyond the stars and unknown worlds, here's one last piece of advice. Your shared journey will be filled with hardships. But despite the new dangers that may arise, you must never forget the meaning behind your quest.

He paused before looking them straight in the eyes, his usually carefree gaze carrying an unexpected depth.

Venti: This world… is full of mysteries. There are so many things to understand, so many truths hidden right before our eyes.

The way Venti spoke curiously reminded Sora of another man—Ansem, the Seeker of Darkness. He still remembered how Ansem described the worlds, urging others to uncover their mysteries, to look beyond appearances.

But where Ansem had been driven by his thirst for knowledge and the power of Darkness, Venti was entirely different. Despite his status as an Archon, he didn't seem to seek power. He simply observed, letting the wind carry his gaze wherever it needed to go, never forcing destiny.

And yet… he still found his own answers. Perhaps they were far wiser and more accepting than Ansem's.

Venti: The birds of Teyvat, the songs and the cities, the Tsaritsa, her Fatui and the monsters, both ancient… and new.

He paused, a hint of gravity in his voice, suggesting that he was referring to the Heartless.

Venti: They are all part of your journey. Each of these elements may offer you an answer. You must remember that the destination is not everything. So before you reach the end, keep your eyes open. Use the chance to take in the world around you... and understand it.

Aether: Venti…

Sora and Aether exchanged glances. These words, though poetic, made sense. Sora, in particular, reflected on his past journeys. He had lost count of how many times he had rushed headfirst toward a goal without taking the time to truly observe what was around him. Maybe it was time to start seeing things from a different perspective.

Aether: I think I understand what you mean…

Sora: Same here. Thanks, Venti.

Venti suddenly burst into laughter and waved his hand dismissively, as if brushing away the solemn atmosphere.

Venti: Great. So that's that for the Anemo Archon's admonishments! Back to Venti Time!

Paimon let out an exasperated sigh.

Paimon: You mean "The tone-deaf bard"…

Venti feigned indignation.

Venti: Now, now, Paimon! That's not very nice! You shouldn't reduce a talented artist to just his bad habits!

The group burst into laughter, lightening the mood. Finally, Venti gave them one last wave before stepping back slightly.

Venti: Go on, now. You've got a long journey ahead of you! Take care in Liyue, and may the wind guide you toward new adventures!

Sora, Aether, and Paimon nodded. Without further delay, they set off, leaving the city of wind behind.

Venti watched them disappear into the distance, his smile gradually fading as his mind drifted into deeper thoughts. Ever since the incident with Signora and the loss of his Gnosis, he had suspected that the Tsaritsa wasn't doing this at random. She had a plan—a grand design for this world. But with the arrival of the Heartless, everything had become even more unpredictable.

If those creatures continued to sow chaos, Teyvat's situation would only grow worse. Worse still… what if, in some way, they interfered with the Tsaritsa's ambitions?

No… he didn't even want to consider it. He already knew what answer that would lead to—an even greater turmoil than the one already looming over this world.

And then, there was something else.

That presence he had sensed… The so-called survivor of Organization XIII, whose shadow still loomed over them…

Closing his eyes, he let the wind brush against his face.

Yes… Teyvat was on the verge of changes unlike anything it had seen before.

Perhaps even greater than the upheavals of the Archon War five hundred years ago.

---

Finally, it's done! There was so much to cover in this chapter.

Moreover, this marks the end of the Mondstadt Arc… or at least, if it can really be called an arc. In the end, the main takeaway from this arc is Sora's arrival in the world of Teyvat. He arrived just after the Dvalin/Stormterror crisis and had the opportunity to meet all the important characters of Mondstadt (or at least, almost all of them). And of course, his meeting with Aether. I had to come up with parts of the story in an original way, and I found that introducing the Heartless as a new threat was the most logical solution. You could even consider all of this as part of Genshin Impact's "Interlude" quests.

As for what's next, the upcoming chapters will focus on the Liyue arc. This should be a bit easier to write since I plan to mostly follow the original game's storyline. Well, I say "mostly" because even though I'll be using the main story, I think I can still add some original scenes. I hope you'll enjoy this idea.

With that, I'll see you soon for the next chapter!