Vision users and you! An exploration of common themes and qualities in wielders of different elements
Vision users and you! Observations of common themes regarding the wielders of different elements
DISCLAIMER: this is not a 'criteria' for who gets what vision. Think of this more as an exploration of patterns in Genshin character design, now that we've got a decent sample size from each element to look at.
Anemo users are, to put it bluntly, nosy bastards. They are always watching and listening, even if it seems like they're just zoning out. While they of course make for excellent spies and investigators, (no secrets are safe from the wind, after all) their natural curiosity and observant nature can also bring them success in fields such as alchemy and mechanics. Although living in Observer Mode has its perks, it does not make for a healthy social life; even the most extroverted of Anemos tend to be wallflowers, finding much more enjoyment in people-watching than actually participating in conversation. As for the introverts, getting them to leave their workshop/office/remote mountaintop for any social gathering is a monumental task that usually requires some degree of threatening, cajoling, and/or promises of snacks; when reaching out to them, don't be surprised if you get nothing but dead air in response.
Like the rocks their powers are derived from, Geo users are stable, dependable, and the least likely to turn and run for the hills when things go south. This reputation for reliability in turn inspires loyalty from their peers; Geo users often find themselves in charge of governments, armies, or criminal enterprises, with many loyal employees/troops/minions rallying around them. In addition to strong leaders and hard workers, Geo users also make great actors- their composure is second to none, and you'd sooner catch them dead before catching them breaking character. Unfortunately, despite being excellent at standing their ground, Geos can be extremely susceptible to pressure from behind; they can often be coerced into performing dangerous, demeaning, or completely insane tasks, especially if they feel their personal pride is at stake. You can't stop the rock, but you can push it forwards a bit if you have the right leverage.
The disposition of an Electro user will vary depending on their relation to their base desires and obsessions- their "inner animal." Some Electro users are embarrassed by the animal, and keep a tight lid on it whenever they're in public. Bottling up all this energy inside makes them very prickly and unapproachable, which is fine because it means there's less of a chance people will discover the army of plushies hiding in their closet. On the other side of the Electro spectrum, there are users who open their souls entirely to the world, shocking others with their erratic and bizarre behavior. They will show you all their limited collectibles and they will explain the lore behind each one, whether or not you asked. Once you accept that they're never going to 'act normal,' however, they can be surprisingly easy to get along with. The most fearsome of all Electros are, of course, the ones in the middle. These users have learned to wield their animal as a tool, knowing when to turn up the theatrics, when to keep a low profile, and when to get just under your skin. Those who carelessly play along with their antics may quickly find themselves the ones being played.
Dendro users want to see people thrive. They will extend a hand to the most broken of souls, seek out cures for those once thought doomed, and develop a comprehensive diet and exercise plan for all their friends. They know you can be better, and they're going to help you be better, until you push past the dirt and weeds and blossom like the brilliant flower that they know you are. Some are so dedicated to helping others that they neglect their own well being, much to the dismay of their friends and family. While these sorts of Dendros are extremely compassionate, their determination to see the best in everyone makes them vulnerable to emotional manipulation. Other Dendros focus on their own growth first, snaking their way through all manner of trials in pursuit of self betterment. Whether it's running errands across the world or a cushy, well-paying desk job, they seek a place where they can put down roots, unfurl their leaves, and bask in all life has to offer.
Of all the different types of vision users, Hydro users are the greatest visionaries (ha.) They are those with both the will change their world, and the social, financial, or political clout to make that change happen. Their beliefs vary- some campaign for the rediscovery of old traditions, while others call for revolution- but they all want to make waves. In their quest to turn the tides, nowhere is off-limits; Hydros will search the stars above, sink to the lowest depths of the Abyss, and even kick down the gates of Celestia if they have to. The scariest Hydro users are the ones who forgo the soapbox and pulpit in favor of pulling strings behind the scenes. These are true masters of social intrigue, who move with equal confidence through the currents of the world's grandest palaces and its filthiest slums. If one of them decides you are an obstacle to their plans for change, it's likely you'll be floating face-down in the river before long.
There are two main strains of Pyro user. The first and most common type are the optimists. They carry a ceaseless, brilliant flame in their soul, and they want to share its warmth with the world in any way they can. With spectacular performances, heart-pumping music, or even something as mundane as having a hot meal and a warm bath ready for you at home, the Pyros are on a mission to make the world just a little brighter with their infinite enthusiasm. Some will argue that there are places where such an attitude is 'inappropriate.' A Pyro optimist will tell you that you can't spell 'funeral' without 'fun.' Of course, not all Pyros are like this. There is a second, less common type- the realists, who know that warmth and light must be defended with force. They drive back the encroaching shadows, getting their hands bloody so that others don't have to. They might not be as outwardly affectionate as the optimists, but you'd better believe they care just as much, if not more.
Cryo users are plagued by ghosts. Some are haunted by their heritage, their lives dominated by the weight of an ancient family legacy. Others believe themselves to be sinners, and seek absolution from pasts stained in blood. Many got cast into the adult world at an extremely young age, and never got the chance to be children. At least one will never get the chance to grow up. Cryo users often feel like perpetual strangers, subject to whispers and frigid stares despite going above and beyond to prove their worth. Even when they are being praised for their achievements, they wilt at the attention- they don't want to be special, they just want to be normal. Don't assume that the Cryos take all this lying down, though- many have dedicated themselves to fighting the demons head-on. They expose corruption, tear apart deeply entrenched and outdated doctrine, aim sledgehammers at their nation's most profitable industry, and even bust literal ghosts. For these 'icebreakers,' it doesn't matter that they might turn the entire world upside down; the ugly truth will be revealed, and the spirits of the past will be put to rest.
