#traveler!reader

the people of mondstadt knew your face — having played a large part in the whole dvalin / stormterror fiasco

and alongside that, they were used to seeing a knight by your side, or you lurking around with some other big faces of the city

but when commissions were accepted and collected alone, tables were occupied by only paimon and you, and you’d take routes way out of you way to avoid certain buildings — the people of mondstadt knew that something was up

diluc was the first to start catching onto your out of the ordinary ways — no longer would you come to the pub or the winery, and he had once seen you turn you back to him and walk the opposite way

not only would he be severely confused, but he’d be somewhat hurt — despite not getting super close with anyone, he had considered you a friend, so seeing you openly avoid him hurt to say the least

he would set aside as much of his work as he could just so he could figure out what had gotten into — and if he had to, he’d work with the knights

speaking of the knights

kaeya would be the next one to truly notice your disappearance and distant behaviour

the other knights were either too deep into their work, or had their hands tied with other things — jean, lisa, albedo being the ones who didn’t notice anything out of the ordinary

when diluc contacts kaeya, he would then go and alert his fellow knights, as well as sending word to people he knew were also close to you

the knights as a whole would be concerned — maybe there was something about your missing sibling that was troubling you, or maybe there was an event that had gotten you down — they didn’t know the reason for your behaviour, but they were worried

razor, who despite not having contact with you regularly, would often spot you out and about — and when he tries to make contact with you and you turn away, he would be so wounded

he not only takes it super personal, but also questions every little interaction he’s ever had with you in the past — maybe he had done something to make you mad, maybe you just didn’t like him

the smaller characters like klee and diona would be both confused and sad — having a new face as prominent as your own was exciting and interesting, so when you started to pull away from mondstadt as a whole, emotions ran high

diona would try to get you to come over after commissions for a meal, maybe even a nice chat, but with a small denial being brushed her way, she would also distance herself

klee would constantly try to be by your side, even when you politely ask her for space — the only way she’ll be leaving you alone is if you down right tell her to leave (if you yell at klee i’ll personally hurt you <3)

bennett would be used to being avoided in all honesty — so you pulling away from him would be normal, yet also hurt a lot — you were one of his only adventuring buddies that bothered to stick around after all

now someone that would connect the pieces quite quickly is venti — he can’t say he can explain how, but by the way you carry yourself and how your aura has been, he knew that there was an important reason behind your actions

so he would reach out to the rest of the people you knew and tell them that whatever was wrong would be found out — you were important to them after all

after being cornered and questioned about the out of the ordinary way you were acting, you would inevitably be forced to explain what was wrong

while some would be shocked at your reveal, others would be saddened at the thought

rest assured that no matter what, the people of mondstadt would always look out for you and care for you, even when the time comes where you must leave — and they will make it their duties to spend as much time with you as they can before the time comes

The day came faster than you had expected. As cheesy as it sounded, it had only felt like yesterday when Raava had first spoken with you and the two of you had merged, but it had been just over four months with air bending training being a subject for every single day. A mix of grueling and fun, because learning how to fly using a glider brought you back to earlier days with your wings, but getting your arse kicked by spinning gates, falling from far heights when you mess up your bending- not as fun.

A sort of leaving party had been held the night before, a great buffet for you hard work and just fun games to play with your newly aquired airbending skills. (Tsering had beaten you 5 against 1 in Airball and even then, you were sure she had given you the last one out of pity)

You were changed in your older clothes this time, pulling on your gloves and boots, looking yourself in the mirror in your room the last time. It was weird, seeing yourself in your travelling attire when for the past few years you had been dressed in the familiar orange, yellow and reds of air culture, it only further settled as a reminder that you were leaving today.

You had successfully held back the tears till this point.

“(Name)” Glancing towards your door, Tsering stood with her hands clasped together, a small smile on her beautiful features “Are you ready?”

“Uh, yes!” Fumbling for your bag, you made your way over “I’m- I’m ready”

“Good, but before that” Pulling something from behind her back, she presented it to you “You earned this”

Sat within her palms was an airbending staff, accompanied by your familiar red sash that you supported on your clothes previous. You stood in awe as the elder airbender tied the sash around you, tightening it gently before grasping your cheek, stroking it softly with her thumb. “I will miss you, (Name)”

Tears finally pushed through, eyes glazing over as you engulfed the woman in a tight hug, face shoved into her chest. “I’ll miss you too, Tsering”

Ten minutes later, you were heading towards the bison, specifically your bison, one you had befriended by accident and now considered one of your lifelong pals. You hadn’t meant to bond with him, only airbenders received bison, but you had stumbled upon the ordeal when exploring and he just didn’t seem to care about anyone else. Tsering had let you have him without much argument and smiled when you named him Viator, something she didn’t quite understand back then but now was a completely different story.

“Food has been packed for you, along with water, spare clothes and other necessities” Paimon was already sitting upon Viator’s back, munching on what you guessed was something from breakfast, when you jumped onto the bison’s head, stroking through his fur with love. “Be safe, (Name) and please know, you may return whenever you wish”

“Thank you, Tsering. Thank you everyone, you showed me kindness for all these years and treated me as one of your own. I’ll miss you all so much but I promise I will come back” With a commanding ‘Yip, yip’ Viator had pushed himself off the ground “Farewell everyone!”

The younger airbender girls screamed their goodbyes, waving their hands wildly while the older nuns bowed, sending waves once you began to disappear West, towards the mainland of Teyvat.

Finally, your journey began.

-----

“Look, there it is!”

It had taken an entire day, much faster than you had originally expected and you couldn’t have been more grateful for the existence of sky bison. 

From your point, you could see giant cliffs, a small, sandy bay sat beneath them with a path that led deeper into the mainland, your bison following it when you finally hit the shoreline.

“Did Raava say anything about the statues, like, how to even get the power in the first place?”

You shook your head “No, so I’ll just have to see once we find one- woah”

It had taken only five minute to reach a clearing and boy, was it a sight to behold. Cliffs surrounded the area in a crescent shape, the valley holding a plethora of beautiful trees ranging from the famous forest green to autumn time orange. Beyond it stood a city of stone, laid within a sparkling blue lake, Mondstadt you believed. Dead center sat a small isle within the valley, containing just the thing you were looking for.

“That was quick”

Viator grew closer, groaning when you called ‘Yip, yip!’ to drop the lot of you onto the tiny piece of land, Paimon clapping her hands excitedly.

“Oh!” She cried in delight “That’s the statue of the Anemo Archon, Barbatos! He’s the spirit of Air!”

Floating down, you jogged up the statue with your companion following behind, eyeing the tall structure with intrigued eyes when you finally stood before it, glancing around it briefly before Paimon spoke up.

“What now?”

You shrugged “I...touch it?”

“Paimon..agrees?”

Delicate hands reached out, brushing against the golden plaque molded into the botton of the monument when a beautiful glow was produced from the carved diamond patterns, both you and Paimon gasping in surprise as a heavenly sounded resonated through the area, the glow winding up the statue and forming into a beautiful light orb within the hands of the figure head. Slowly, the ball floated down towards you, like a leaf in the wind, then flew into your chest, a feeling of weightlessness flowing through your entire being.

You glanced over yourself.

“Was...that it?”

Paimon huffed “You know, that’s kind of rude to say about the power the Archon just gave you!”

“I didn’t mean it like that-”

A brilliant light flashed before your eyes, blinding you, the whole surrounding scene blurring away. You threw your hands over your face, protecting yourself from the harsh brightness when it faded as soon as it came, the sound of nature that once encircled you now replaced with a deafening silence.

“(Name)”

You turned towards the voice, smiling “Raava”

The spirit flew towards you, you once again lending your hand out only to notice the slight difference within the being.

“You’re bigger” You noted in excitement, watching her wind up your arm “Have I already restored some of your power that fast? If so, this’ll be easy-peasy”

“You mustn't underestimate this journey, (Name)” She spoke with a wisdom that you hadn’t experienced for what felt like lifetimes, your body straightening up in response to her tone “We have only just begun and the road will only grow more treacherous as we push forward. Not everyone will be so supporting in our quest”

A sigh escaped you “Yeah, you’re right, nothing is ever that easy. I wish we had more help though”

“You are not alone in this, (Name)”

“I know, I’ve got you, Pai, Viator-”

“That is not what I meant”

The noise of confusion you made was cut short at the sound of….wind? It grew louder with it second, until the whisper because a magnificent howl, collecting around the two of you before bursting outwards, forms of multiple figures appearing from the darkness.

“Air nomads?” You glanced around at them all “Wait, not just air nomads”

“No, each is an air nomad in their own right” The multiple air nomads eyes snapped opening, revealing a familiar white glow “Not every nomad is in touch with their culture, some fade away, whether that be from their own choice or anothers, while others stick with air custom”

It hit you.

“Past air nation Avatars….” There were so many, you couldn’t keep count! They even faded into the far distance of this mind space! You had known there had been plenty of Avatars but seeing this much was just...wow “But, I don’t get it, the Avatar cycle was destroyed. Wouldn’t the Avatars have vanished? Like in that Water tribe….Korra, like in Korra’s era”

But then again, Tsering had told you that the following Avatar, an Earth Kingdom boy named Genji you believed, had somehow restored the previous Avatars despite the new cycle. No one ever found out how, but no one really cared, they were just grateful for the Avatar.

“I, as well, am not sure why they are returning” The spirit glanced around before facing you once again, sliding further up to reach eye level “Perhaps it is our connection? Your own spirit? Or maybe it is just luck that they return, but they will help you in your journey, they will be your guides alongside me”

You grinned “Good to know I have more backup”

“(Name)!!!!”

The voice of Paimon echoed around you, concern evident in her voice and you glanced around, trying to find her.

“It is time for you to return, but you can always find us again”

The world around you began to fade, the past avatars disappearing within the darkness along with the spirit.

Paimon sighed in relief when the glow finally dissipated from your eyes, you blinking a few times then glanced towards her with an apologetic smile.

“You can’t just go all Avatar on Paimon like that!” She chided like a mother, waggling her finger at you “Paimon wasn’t sure if what happened was worrying or not!”

“Sorry, Pai, didn’t mean to worry you”

She huffed, floating back to Viator “Let’s just continue on, Paimon thinks we should head over into Mondstadt!”

You hopped onto your bison, patting his head “Why, Mondstadt?”

“It’s the city of Wind of course! Poetry and language flow like the wind, so there must be someone who knows about your brother! At least that what’s Paimon thinks”

“Sounds like a good start, yip- huh?!”

A large shadow cast over you, a bellious roar sounding through the valley, deep, thunderous and strong. Glancing upwards, you both watched as a giant creature, with beautiful blue fathers flew overhead, aimed towards the heart of the forest that laid ahead.

“What was that?!” You cried as Viator groaned in alarm, Paimon looking as spooked as you felt “Paimon!?”

“A dragon! We’ve gotta be careful!”

Dragon? What a weird dragon indeed. You had seen quite a few in your lifetime, exploring different worlds with your brother meant you got to experience a whole lot of different things, dragons were no exception. They differed in different worlds, some violent, some passive, some young and naive some old and wise, but one thing that tended to stay the same was that their appetite was a meaty one and when you glanced down at Viator, you decided to take a cautious step for your furry companion.

“Paimon, stay here with Viator” Opening up your staff, you hopped off your animal and flew in the direction of the forest. Your friend called after you, voice high with panic as she begged you to come back, but you weren’t listening, no, you were focused on keeping the people close to you safe, even if that meant fighting a dragon, which you knew for certain you weren’t ready for.

The forest was practically silent compared to the valley. The sound of life that played within the sun had dimmed with the looming trees of oak, muffling the wind that blew through the perfect path that had been carved through the nature with perfect precision, it’s goal on leading to Mondstadt clear with each tentative step you took that lead to where you had seen the great beast land.

‘I wish I had my sword’ Such words shouldn’t come to a nomad, you knew that to be true, but you had lived through battle after battle with your brother for so long, the weight of the blade, the leather of it’s handle, it had been burned into the skin of your hand many times ago. Guilt boiled within you during your years with the nuns, how could you think of fighting while surrounded by such peaceful people? But then again, you could take a warrior from war, but not war from a warrior.

“Don’t be afraid. It’s alright now, I’m back”

You pushed your back against the nearest tree, glancing around it’s wide trunk at the scene.

The dragon was great, indeed. Coloured in an array of blues, from aquatic to deep ocean, feathers and furs adorned it’s body, tipping the tail, decorating it’s wings, lining it’s belly but ended at it’s claws, replaced with silvery scales that reflected the light of the day. From it’s back, however, protruded two tainted purple crystals, that you could sense, all the way from your hidden spot, held nothing but a dark energy that made your skin crawl. The creature’s sheer size was intimidating enough, especially compared to the boy who stood before it, but those crystals- wait.

Only then did you finally notice, too focused on the dragon to see the small male who held his hands out towards it. Sure, you had heard the voice earlier, but the blue beast’s appearance had overshadowed it, though now, you saw him, clear as day and your thoughts screamed about how such a small, fragile looking human could stand tall before such an intimidating animal-

A shout echoed through the forest, a familiar high shout that made you groan inwardly when the dragon let out an ear piercing shriek, swiping towards the boy only for him to jump back to your relief, snapping his head towards you direction, then disappear in a flashing light, the dragon leaving along with him into the sky with a final roar for extra effect.

You glared back at Paimon, panicked stricken face frozen in terror atop Viator’s head, who had tucked into himself at the appearance of the other animal.

“Really, Paimon?!” Running over, you soothed your bison softly “I told you to stay put! What if that dragon attacked?!”

“Paimon- uh- Paimon….” The spirit stumbled over her words for a few moments, when she noticed something within the short distance of where the dragon had been perched “What’s that?”

On closer inspection, it appeared to be a floating crystal, shaped eerily similar to a teardrop which glowed a crimson red, screaming an aura of negativity and…

“Sorrow” You hesitated when you reached out, but ultimately grasped it between your fingers gently “You can feel it right? That sorrow from it?”

“Yeah, almost like spiritual energy but just...sad, really sad” Frowning, Paimon turned towards you “Paimon feels kinda sad now too”

“Yeah, me too”

A cloth emerged from your pocket with a tug, the crimson glow disappearing under the raggedy brown of the material as you wrapped it carefully before stuffing it a bag on Viator’s back.

“Take care of this, will you bud?”

The animal groaned.

“Thanks”

Hopping down, you grasped Viator’s reins and continued down the dirt path.

“So, Mondstadt?”

It didn’t take long to reach the end of the woodland’s winding path. The once dense forestry parting way to a clear road to that great city that stood proud a few acres away, towering cliffs decorating your left for quite a way while to your right laid the beautiful crystal blue waves of what Paimon called Lake Cider.

A strange name, you had to admit, but your spirit friend’s explanation of the city’s famous winery industry only seemed to make it fit.

“-If we ask around, we’ll find some information! Oh, this city is famous for bards! So we can definitely-”

“Hey, you! Stop right there!”

Another threat?

Caution was thrown into the wind and you raced into action, pulling forth your staff in a defensive stance and ready to protect your companions with every last inch of you. Viator seemed to feel the same, as his large frame grew closer to you, towering in size with a guttural growl that even shook you slightly, bearing giant teeth.

Paimon merely fell behind, cowering away nervously.

‘Wow, thanks a lot Pai-’

A figure flew overhead, leaping off one of the shorter cliff sides and descending down to the dirt before you, rolling for safety then bouncing back up on their feet.

Long, dark brown hair, lively golden eyes, fair skin and covered head to toe in red.

Fire nation perhaps? Nun Tsering did say that descendants were fond of the colour.

“May the Anemo archon protect your stanger-...” She started, face kind but guarded until she fell upon your sash and bison “Ah! You’re an Air nomad! I am so sorry!”

Then she bowed, deep and apologetic and you sent Paimon a side eyed glance when she floated back to your side.

“Mondstadt is the city of wind and considered air nation territory” She whispered, “Monks and Nuns are highly respected, well, everywhere, but much higher here. You’re basically considered royalty”

You nodded in understanding before approaching the girl “Hey, it’s okay! It was an honest mistake! What’s your name? Mine’s (Name). This is my spirit guide, Paimon and my bison, Viator”

The younger woman bounced back up, narrowingly missing your head with her own while she stumbled over herself, finally findinger her words as she saluted (?) towards you all, forming a fist on her chest then being thrown outside, hand flattening by her side “Yes, of course! I am Amber, Outrider for the Knights of Favonius. I would like to personally welcome you to Mondstadt, dear Nun and once again apologise for my rude approach”

“Like I said, it was just a mistake!” Laughing, you bowed “It’s nice to meet you, Amber”

Amber paused for a moment, eyes wide then bowed in return “Likewise, Nun (Name)”

“You don’t need to call me that! I’m only a...nun-in-training, really, so, (Name) is just fine”

“Are you sure? It seems impolite to call you that, even if you’re only in training!”

From the sidelines, Paimon smiled.

The spirit had been informed by Nun Tsering of your inner conflict when you had first stumbled into this world. How hard it had been to open up, how you had struggled to interact with the others nuns, always so closed off and scared, the festering feeling of abandonment brewing a deep rooted fear of interaction, lest any person you may come across would be the next to leave you in the dust, by their own will or not.

When Paimon had first arrived, you had still struggled with that fear, even now if was still visible, if you looked close enough, but she knew she didn’t have to worry as much now, you were doing so much better and seeing you grow more confident made pride bloom in her chest, where her heart would be if she were human.

“Please-” Amber gestured over to Mondstadt, “Allow me to escort you to our city”

“Are you sure? If you’re a knight, you’re probably out here for a reason and I don’t want to get in the way of that”

“Not to worry, my duties have been fulfilled for today, so taking you to Mondstadt wouldn’t be much trouble”

With a smile, you nodded and off your little group ventured.

The walk to the city wasn’t long, no, only 5 minutes at least, filled with friendly chit chatter between you, Amber and Paimon, your bison huffing for your attention like he usually loved to do when your focus shifted. The knight looked ecstatic when you offered her a ride some time, bouncing up and down excitedly then engulfing the beast in a hug.

You liked her attitude, her excitement. It reminded you of simpler times and on a more somber note, of Aether. He always was kinda like the sun, even when you two bickered like normal siblings did, he kept on that lightened aura that just kept you from staying mad at him, a smile surfacing on your face while he cheered in accomplishment, a small tease of ‘You know you love me!’ before you smacked him right around the head and your famous fist fights ensued, the ones you always won.

You missed your squabbles, you his light, you missed him, but you had to remind yourself that this was the start of your journey to finding your brother and you would be reunited one day.

The guards bowed when you finally entered the city, as did the seemingly grumpy blacksmith you passed, the flower girl, the adventure guild receptionist, the jeweller- everyone and you did the polite thing of bowing back.

“You’re attracting quite the crowd already!” Amber laughed, the many citizens watching your group with wide gazes “It’s only natural though, I’m sure Paimon’s already told you that Nun and Monks are regarded highly in the city of wind!”

“Yup! Paimon made sure it was the first thing she knew!” You were positive the spirit ignored your stink eye, “So, who do we speak with about missing person posters?”

“Well, it’s best to speak with Master Jean, if you come with me I’ll show you the way! Here, I’ll give you a little tour around too!”

“That sounds great!” You glanced back to Viator, who stood patiently beyond the gates and watched you with soft eyes. “Stay here, bud! I’ll come back soon- and with some hay!”

The great beast groaned, waddling off somewhere beyond the gate and leaving the three of you to wander deeper into the city.

With each step you took, you felt as though you were being watched with the familiar sensation of eyes pinpointed onto you, though, it seemed... unwelcoming, their stare burning holes into your form. For a moment you glanced around, Amber and Paimon too distracted with talking to notice your focus shift. It didn’t take long to find the perpetrator, a man with long red locks, a few yards away, glaring at you with arms crossed.

You noted to yourself to look for the man later.

“Hey, isn’t that Barbatos?” Gaze shifting once again, your look upon the grande statue before Mondstadt’s church, a figure akin to an angel with long robes, wings and hands out, cupped towards the sky “You know, Paimon remembers him wearing less clothes”

The knight shared a disturbed look with you.

You didn’t really need that mental image.

“The headquarters is right over here-”

There was an instant shift in the air. 

The sky darkened with malicious grey clouds, hiding away the bright summer’s sun and replacing it with only a layer of doom, the wind picking up harsher undertones.

“The sky…”

There it was again. 

The dragon from the Whispering Woods.

It raced towards the city, circling it’s borders ominously while growling a thunderous and threatening growl before erupting into a blood curdling screech, the noise bringing forth a miniature cyclone along with powerful tornadoes. 

The people of the city screamed in fear, rushing around to escape the attack, parents crying for children, knights ordering for citizens to take cover, animals yowling out their own grievances, utter chaos reigned and you felt panic at the thought of Viator alone, waiting for you patiently where you left him.

“I have to go get Viator!” You were already sprinting back to the gates “I can’t leave him alone like this!”

Amber raced after you.

How had this happened so fast? And why when you had just arrived? What was going!? Only moments ago you were touring the city towards the Knights of Favonius headquarters and now this!

“Paimon thinks that the tornado is getting too close!” She was right, it was practically on your heels! “Hurry! Or we’ll get caught up!”

If only it had been that easy.

Amber had tried, you had seen her panic as you felt the pull of the powerful wind current begin to drag you closer, she had reached out, grabbing your staff with strength only adrenaline could cause, trying hard to keep you grounded but you could see it was for naught, as her feet slipped against the stone and the fear she would also get sucked in plagued you.

You made a rash, last minute decision.

“Get Viator!” Her eyes met yours “And take care of my staff!”

You let go and watched her horrified face as you were sucked into the winding wind.

It was terrifying, you had no idea what way was up and what way was down, left was right and right was left. Paimon was screaming, something you couldn’t hear in your throat crushing fear, curled into a ball and eyes shut tightly, hoping for it to end soon. If only you had your wings, if only Aether was here, if only...

“Ravaa” Your own whimpering could not be heard beyond the screaming of the wind, but you begged that the spirit still heard you. “Please, I’m scared”

A beat passed.

The wind still roared.

Another beat passed.

The screams of citizens still echoed through Mondstadt.

Then another.

“Hey, (Name), wake up already!”

The voice was loud. Super loud. A kind of loud that made your ears ring and ground your teeth together, that kind of loud. By the sounds of it, they were obviously right next to your ear, wailing out your name like the world around you was up in flames, burning away at your surroundings in a harrowing chaos.

But within consciousness, came sense and with sense, awareness of one’s surroundings. You knew that there was no fire, it was certainly warm in your space, but it was from the proud sun that leaked in through your window, particularly weak in the early hours of the morning, nevertheless still just as cosy.

“(Name), come on!!!!”

Your body was jolted by a pair of small hands, shaking you back and forth violently, even when you finally popped an eye open, glaring at the figure with an exhausted frustration.

Hair was white, thick and cropped around her face with dark purple eyes that shone in the early light, small, fair body floating just a few inches above you, hands rocking you violently in an effort to have you awake. Furthermore, She was pouting, cheeks puffed out, eyes narrowed- the whole works and she let out a huff when noticing your stare.

“Finally!” The small person cried, poking at your cheek “Do you know how deep you sleep!? Paimon’s pretty sure she woke up everyone else in the temple with her yelling!”

“More like screeching.” You sassed, whisking on a drowsy grin “You sound like a banshee, Pai.”

Paimon gasped in offence “You take that back! Paimon sounds nothing like that!”

“Whatever you say.”

Finally, you heaved yourself out of bed, glancing around your room nonchalantly with Paimon yammering on in an outrage, her arms waving around wildly as she spoke.

Raava. The word echoed in your head, resolute and strong as you went about your morning routine, mind focused only on what it could mean. A name? A place? Some sort of item? You had no clue, couldn’t properly fathom it, not with the little information the voice had been giving you. Who even was the voice? Was it this Raava? Also how were you supposed to find...them? You truly were stumped.

But the picture of Aether, of his wide, panic struck eyes, hand reaching out towards you was tugging at your hope. That promise, the words of “I can help you” tugged at your hope. If they could really help you, if you could finally find your brother, you were gonna pursue this and you were going to find your answers.

“Hey! Are you even listening?!”

“Nope” You responded, tying your belt around your attire.

“(Name)!”

Laughing, you patted down your outfit, then grasped Paimon’s hand gently, tugging her closer to your level. “I’m sorry, I’ve just been preoccupied.”

She tilted her head “Is it because of your dream?”

The shock in her words was probably evident on your face because a second later she continued, her face sympathetic “You called out your brother’s name again.”

Oh.

“Are you okay?” A nod wasn’t enough to satisfy her worry “Are you sure? You can tell Paimon!”

“I know, I know.” Patting her hand, you finally pulled away and headed to the door, her following close behind. 

The Eastern Air Temple was a beautiful place. Standing tall and proud within the center of a archipelago, the temple was a ways off from the mainland of Teyvat, mostly secluded from the rest of the world to allow the Air Nomads to practice their way of life peacefully, away from the noise of the other nations, just like the other Air temples.

You had awoken here after your battle with the Unknown God, dazed and weak, the Air Nomads had taken you in and had practically integrated you into the life of Air. It had been coming up to four years, learning the ways of this world, the language, the culture, until 2 months ago, when you had found Paimon, splashing about off the shore of one of the surrounding islands, close to drowning.

You had fished her out yourself, her introducing herself as a spirit of guidance and you had been friends since.

“Hey, Pai, actually” The two of you had been heading to congregate with the other nuns for morning meditation when you had finally found the courage to turn to your partner, her eyes focused onto you when you both paused “Can I ask you something?”

“Of course!” Her hands rested on her hips “You can ask Paimon anything! Except things she doesn’t know, you’d have to ask someone else about that”

Your laugh made her grin triumphantly.

“Well, I don’t know if this is in your knowledge or not, but, I wanted to ask if you know what...Raava is?”

Paimon’s reaction was instant. Her face overfilled with shock and confusion, blinking owlishly at your slowly tensing figure before finally she was able to speak once again.

“Raava” She started, oddly serious despite her constant giddy nature “Was the spirit of light and peace, she kept the world safe from darkness and chaos”

You hesitated before asking tentatively “Was?”

“She was killed 2 thousand years ago”

The words hit you hard.

Raava was dead? The thing, which you had finally found was a spirit, was dead? And had been for 2 thousand years!? Then what happened now!? What did that dream even mean now!? If Raava was dead how could you possibly find her!?

“Are….are you sure?” At Paimon’s nod, you deflated, falling back into the staircase wall with a sigh “Then...what did the dream mean?”

“Your dream? You said it was about your brother!” She chastised, puffing out her cheeks.

“It was! But some voice kept telling me I needed to find this Raava and I-”

“Wait, wait, wait-” Shaking her hands before her, Paimon leaned closer. She still seemed just as serious as previous, though from the light that was gathering in her eyes, she seemed a little...hopeful, like whatever you would next say were like a present for her that you were hiding behind your back “Your dream said to find Raava?”

“Yes, that’s why I asked-”

“Was there anything else?”

You paused “It mentioned that Raava could possibly help me find Aether”

Silence hung for a few moments, Paimon’s face uncomfortably close to yours as you shared intense eye contact. A few other nuns walked past, watching in intrigue as the exchange went on, but not doing much else before Paimon finally reacted, screaming in delight and dancing around you excitedly, as though you had told her you two were having a ten course meal.

“Finally! Finally!” She cried, hooting loudly “She’s finally returned! She’s finally back!”

“What-” You yelped when she grabbed your hand, dragging you in the direction of the meditation area “Paimon! I thought you said she was dead!?”

“I’ll explain later but we need to tell Nun Tsering the news!”

-----

Nun Tsering was one of the leading nuns of the Eastern Temple. She stood tall amongst the rest with long, beautiful grey hair that was tied in traditional nomad fashion and kind grey eyes that seemed to put every single person she talked to at ease. The woman had taken the role as your teacher and friend, a respectful woman that you had grown to care for during your time within the temple, she even knew about your past, with your brother, with the unknown God, everything.

So, when the two of you had finally arrived for morning meditation, Paimon claiming urgency, she guided you two away from the other nuns for a private chat without needing much else.

“So, what was so urgent, you two?” She mused as you walked in the gardens “You looked as though you had been chased by a swarm of lemurs”

Paimon got to it first, eyes wide with excitement “Raava has returned!”

That stopped Tsering right in her tracks.

Paimon went to continue but you stopped her with a motion of your hand, looking upon your master’s surprised face with lacking confidence. “Paimon is getting ahead of herself, but, I did have a dream about finding her, a voice told me I needed to find Raava, that she could help me find Aether, but...I don’t know…”

Your spirit friend huffed but once again she was stopped, this time by Tsering, who bore an expression of significance. “The voice, did it say anything else?”

“I, uh-” You thought back to the dream, to your brother, to the voice “It mentioned something about a journey but it didn’t specify much other than it being….our journey.”

Her eyes widened.

“Tsering-”

“Follow me.”

Once again, you were taken to an entirely different place within the temple, practically running after Tsering’s rushed steps with Paimon right behind, the two of you sharing a look of confusion until you had finally reached a door, with the pattern of the air surrounded by some weird contraption. The nomad was quick to send a blast of wind into two tubes, a large creak of the wood echoing all around you as it opened, revealing to you a giant room, filled with an abundance of statues, every single one different from the last.

“Woah!” Paimon cried as you entered, flying around to examine each with interest “These are the past Avatars!”

“Avatar? What’s that?” Following Tsering to the center, where the statues began to spiral into the middle, to where a single one that stood, you became more and more confused “Tsering, what’s going on?”

The Nun looked upon the statue with an emotion you couldn’t decipher, brushing away at the statue’s shoulders with a special care before she finally spoke “(Name), many eons ago, before the Archon wars, before the nations- any of the nations, there was a man named Wan.”

Wan….Why did it feel like you knew that name?

“He was the first Avatar.” She explained, “A man held the power of the four elements.”

“...but you told me a person can only bend one element?”

She finally turned to face you “Normal humans can only wield one element, but Wan wasn’t a normal human.”

Within the sanctuary, among the many statues, Tsering told the story of the Avatar. From Wan’s mistake, to his journey with Raava, to fighting and sealing Vaatu and the Avatar cycle. For hours, you sat, listening to your master as she spoke of the tales of the Avatars, all the way up until the Archon Wars, to…

“Avatar Ly was the last Avatar.” Looking up at the statue from your spots on the floor, Tsering bowed her head in respect “She was born into the violence of the Archon War and pledge to the people that she would be the one to stop this conflict once and for all.”

“Let me guess” You started, feeling your heart squeeze painfully “She died while in the Avatar state.”

The nun nodded solemnly “She was killed in a battle between Morax and Osial. She had to sacrifice herself in order to protect Liyue, but she could only use the power of the Avatar state to do so and it resulted in the death of Ly, Raava and the end of the Avatar cycle. It was said that Morax was burdened with much guilt over her death and erected a statue in her honour on Mt. Tianheng so that Liyue would forever know their saviour”

You took everything in with a breath, absorbing the information when Paimon finally cut in, her silence through this entire predicament a weird contrast to her usual self. “But, what does the Avatar have to do this?”

Actually, you had been wondering this as well, though kept silent during Tsering’s explanation, waiting for her to explain.

Her face was unwavering “I believe that Raava has chosen (Name) to be the next Avatar”

Your expression was comical, a mix of unbelieving and confused, trying to comprehend her words while Paimon openly gawked, shaking her arms and flying around like a headless chicken, babbling.

“But that’s crazy! (Name)’s not even from this world, forget about being a bender! Why would she pick (Name) to be the new Avatar!?”

You huffed “Thanks Paimon.”

“You’re welcome!”

“I know it’s hard to understand.” Tsering sent you a sympathetic smile “But it would make sense as to why Raava would reveal herself to you.”

“Reveal herself? But I haven’t even met her yet!” You cried incredulously.

“But (Name), you have. Who else would have spoken to you within your dream?”

She did have a point.

You cast your head downwards.

“I know this sounds rude but...I don’t want to be the Avatar, I don’t have time for a responsibility like that. I have to find my brother, I need to find this Unknown God too, I can’t just…”

You hated how the words came out, how it all sounded, but it was the truth. You didn’t want this power, you didn’t want that responsibility, you were already starting your own journey, now healed from your battle and understanding this world, you were soon to be on your way to find your brother and get your own power back.

Why did Raava pick you?

A warm hand was placed upon your shoulder and you looked up at the nun, uncertain.

“I know you are afraid, (Name), I can sense it from you, but you mustn’t” Her other hand came to rest on your cheek, wiping away the small tears that had gathered in your eyes “Raava is a kind spirit, if she has chosen you then there must be a good reason, you just have to ask.”

“But how?”

The nun smiled, leaning back to take a meditating stance. You followed.

“Close your eyes, focus and clear you mind.” Her voice was smooth and kind “If Raava was able to speak to you within your dream, it means that she is already with you, you just have to find her.”

“That….doesn’t really make sense.”

Her chuckle made you smile “It will, now focus.”

The sanctuary was very quiet, the only sound produced from the room was from the wind that flew in from down the hall, soft, almost inaudible, but you could hear it’s silent howl through the room, feel it surround the three of you as you meditated, feeling it’s calming effect wash over you.

Everything around you seemed to fade as time went on, the feeling of Tsering and Paimon disappeared entirely, the blow of the wind no longer cooled your skin, nor did it’s voice caress your ears, no, everything felt like...nothing and with that, you opened your eyes, only to be greeted with what you had sensed, nothing.

“Huh?” You span around, breaking your position to search for you friends in a panic, anxiety growing within the pit of your stomach “Hello!? Tsering!? Paimon!? Anybody!?”

No, no, you didn’t want to be alone. You couldn’t be alone. Someone had always been with you for so long, there was always a presence beside you, but no there wasn’t and you felt helpless, scared, desperate, a hopeless flurry of emotions.

You didn’t want to be abandoned again.

“They have not abandoned you, (Name).” 

That voice.

“And you are not alone.”

Her voice.

Your span back around, watching as a lightly slowly approached you, bright and calming.

“I am here with you.”

“Raava.” You breathed, unconsciously cupping out your hands towards her, letting her settle into your hold as you brought her closer to you almost protectively “You’re Raava.”

“Yes.”

Managing a small smile, you laughed “You’re smaller than I imagined.”

Her laugh surrounded you, warm, loving, bright and...peaceful. The spirit was different that you imagined, she felt like...a light within the darkness, pun not intended, but she felt as though she was a way out, like she was here to save you from your own unintentional prison, from your despair. She made you feel...safer, not entirely safe, but most definitely safer.

“(Name), I first want to thank you.” You furrowed your brows “Your spirit, it’s divinity, you were able to bring me back from death. I have returned because of you.”

“But I lost my power?”

“Before your power was lost, when you had visited our world, your’s and your brother’s power had brought forth enough light to save me. It would have taken another 8 thousand years for me to return, so for that, you have my thanks.”

The words lightened your entire being, bringing forth a teary eyed smile. You knew for sure, had Aether been here, he would have been the one in tears, he was soft like that, gratitude filled him with such a happiness that always seemed to rub off onto you too.

You missed your brother so much.

“But, I still require your help.” The spirit flew from your hands, reaching your eye level “I still do not have my full power, there had not been enough time after death to return me to my former self and I need your help.”

“What, how?”

Images flashed in your mind, statues, multiple states, all with a different figure carved into it’s pinnacle. “The statues hold the power of the Archons within them, if we were to find them, I would be able to use a fragment of their power to restore my own strength. So, will you help me once more, (Name)?”

It wasn’t a difficult question, but it did lead to a difficult answer. You wanted to help her, you wanted to help restore her former glory, but you already had your own mission, you had to find your brother, you wanted to find your brother and you couldn’t do that if your time was invested in helping Raava.

However, thinking back to your dream, you remembered her words, her promise.

“Raava, you said before, in my dream, that you could help me find my brother, is that true?”

“It is.”

Your heart skipped a beat.

“(Name), in return for saving my life, for bringing me back, I want to repay you and if that is to help find your brother, then that is what I will do.” She seemed to shine brighter, the light filling the area, reflecting off your eyes. “Merge with me, (Name), help me restore my strength and we will find your brother, together.”

You gasped, leaning you hand out once again only to stop short “If we merge, I’ll become the next Avatar, won’t I?”

“That is correct.”

“But I can’t even bend.”

“The power of the elements still resides within me.” She replied “It is weak, but it will be enough. Once I am back to my full strength, you will have the power of a true Avatar.”

That was all you needed. Finally, your hand made contact with the spirit, her light growing along with yourself until the void had vanished, leaving a blinding shine throughout the space.

Tsering and Paimon watched as your eyes finally snapped open, glowing a brilliant white that echoed through the room before they faded, staring at the two before you with a giddy grin.

Paimon cheered while your master smiled, her hand returning to your shoulder