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- As such, no matter where I am... When I hold my blade, I feel as if you are right there with me.
- — Kazuha to Aether - "Kaedehara Kazuha: Of Blades and Wine"
Kazuther is the slash ship between Kaedehara Kazuha and Aether from the Genshin Impact fandom.
Canon[]
Inazuma Archon Quests[]
In Autumn Winds, Scarlet Leaves Chapter II: Prologue[]
In Autumn Winds, Scarlet Leaves Chapter II: Prologue, Aether heads to the Guyun Stone Forest, where the Alcor, the flagship of the Crux Fleet, is anchored. Upon his arrival at the ship, he encounters Beidou and an unfamiliar man. Beidou recognizes Aether, having heard of his exploits from Ningguang, and introduces the unknown man as Kaedehara Kazuha, a temporary crewmember.
Beidou mistakenly assumes Aether has come to join "The Crux Clash," a martial arts tournament for renowned fighters that she organizes, which does not require a Vision. When Paimon explains that they are not there for the tournament, Beidou enthusiastically encourages them to join anyway, revealing that the prize is a Masterless Vision provided by Kazuha. She hopes the tournament winner will be able to reawaken it. Aether inquires why the Vision is without a master, and Kazuha explains that when a Vision bearer dies, the light within it fades, leaving behind only the shell. Although its practical application is still uncertain, Kazuha believes that as long as it remains in the world, someone may inherit it. Beidou adds that a Vision is a badge of recognition from the Gods; thus, only an individual of exceptional strength and talent could rekindle it. She views the tournament as a way to uncover hidden tales and hopes to see a Vision glow once more. She then suggests that since Aether does not have a Vision, this is his perfect opportunity to obtain one. However, Aether is primarily focused on finding a way to get to Inazuma. Sensing his determination, Beidou offers to change the prize: if Aether wins the tournament, he can choose between the Masterless Vision or a ride to Inazuma on the Alcor. Aether ultimately agrees and heads to the arena to sign up.
The Crux Clash[]
At the arena, Aether approaches the registration desk, where a crew member named Zhuhan is in charge. Zhuhan is taken aback to see Aether, the hero who helped Liyue fend off an ancient god, joining the tournament. This draws the attention of other competitors and spectators. After Aether proves he does not have a Vision and lists his impressive achievements for formality's sake, he is finally registered and ready for his first match. Aether’s first opponent is Jinyou, who proves to be no match for him, even without using his elemental powers. Beidou watches in awe, knowing Aether won’t regret being introduced as the favorite. Curious about Kazuha's thoughts, she asks him for his opinion, to which he responds that while Aether's performance is impressive, he notices that he exercises restraint, almost as if to protect his opponent from serious harm. Beidou encourages Kazuha to congratulate their upcoming champion, prompting him to think carefully about how to phrase his praise. After a moment, Kazuha turns to Aether and says, “You fought well.” A few moments later, Beidou remarks that more people are joining the tournament now that Aether is signed up, hoping to face him. To conserve Aether's energy, she decides to advance him straight to the semi-finals.
In the semi-finals, Aether faces Rongshi, who Kazuha warns has fought many rounds to reach this point and will provide a greater challenge. While Kazuha believes Aether is likely stronger, he advises him not to lower his guard. Aether confidently replies, "I won’t." Pleased by his resolve, Kazuha encourages him to show he is ready to face the storm ahead. After Aether defeats Rongshi, Rongshi humbly admits that he had no interest in the prize; instead, he joined to test himself against strong fighters. He accepts his defeat gracefully and asks Aether for a rematch in the future. When asked about his next opponent, Rongshi can only say, “They are fast and nimble.” Curious and eager for information, Aether and Paimon decide to consult Beidou for more details. When they reach Beidou, Kazuha commends Aether for his outstanding performance, noting his quick adaptability in the matches. He remarks that his skill is invaluable, and Aether acknowledges his observation, prompting him to explain that he discerned his abilities not just from sight but from the subtle cues of the ground beneath his feet and the rhythm of his breathing. Beidou agrees, mentioning that Aether’s restraint in not using his elemental powers must feel new to him. Aether confirms it is. Paimon then asks Beidou about Aether's final opponent, but Beidou only reiterates the opponent's speed. Sensing Aether's apprehension, Beidou asks if he is worried about overextending himself this time. Aether admits that it is crucial for him and Paimon to reach Inazuma, prompting Kazuha to offer to share more information if he follows him to a quieter spot.
Once they reach a secluded area on a southeastern island, Kazuha reveals that he knows about Aether’s ability to harness elemental powers without a Vision. When Aether is unable to respond to his questions about how he learned this, he asks him directly. Kazuha explains that, blessed since childhood with a strong affinity for nature, he intuited his unique ability and his otherworldly essence. He then requests that Aether demonstrate his powers by fighting off some Slimes. After the battle, he assures him that his opponent’s speed will not match his skill and provides him with tips on his opponent's fighting style. Aether thanks him, promising not to underestimate his upcoming adversary. Kazuha humbly replies that he need not thank him; rather, he is grateful for the chance to witness his mastery of the elements, which defies all known principles. Paimon, curious, wonders why Kazuha seems so fascinated by Visions despite having one himself. He responds that he wishes to understand the meaning of Visions to the Gods and the factors influencing their decision to grant them to humans. After apologizing for overwhelming Aether with such complex topics, Kazuha offers to answer any questions he may have about Inazuma. Aether eagerly requests enlightenment, which amuses him. “So, that’s what you’re curious about? Haha, allow me to share,” he replies, providing him with more insights into Inazuma and the Electro Archon. After their enlightening conversation, they return to the arena to prepare for the final match.
Follow the Wind[]
As the final match approaches, however, the challenger does not show up, irritating Beidou. Sensing something amiss, Kazuha suggests they check on the prize and invites Aether to join them. Upon examining the prize box, they discover it is empty—the Vision is missing. Kazuha notes that the culprit must have acted recently and likely hasn’t gone far. He offers to search for the Vision, asserting it is his responsibility, and Aether decides to accompany him. Kazuha reveals that he knows where the culprit is headed and who they are. The culprit turns out to be Fei the Flyer, a Treasure Hoarder, who is taken aback that Aether and Kazuha managed to track him down. He admits that he signed up for the tournament intending to win fair and square, but after witnessing Aether's prowess against Rongshi, he realized he stood no chance. Aether demands he return the Vision, but he initially refuses, leading to a confrontation. The ensuing fight sees Aether and Kazuha overpowering him. Kazuha, ready to threaten Fei, hesitates but ultimately decides to let him go, confiscating the Vision instead.
Kazuha then reveals to Aether that he had known about the theft all along. He had hoped that Fei would be able to resonate with the Vision, as the Gods typically grant them to those who demonstrate great strength and resilience. He asks Aether to give it a try, and he agrees. However, the Vision does not respond to him, so Kazuha continues to hold it. When Aether questions Kazuha about his attachment to the Vision, he shares a painful memory: when the Raiden Shogun enacted the Vision Hunt Decree, his friend, another Vision bearer, challenged her but ultimately lost in their duel. Kazuha had just arrived in time to witness the final moments of that battle. In a desperate act, he snatched the Vision and fled from his pursuers, determined to keep the hope alive that his friend had fought for. He explains that he has heard rumors of Masterless Visions reawakening during his travels, and he is searching for someone who can achieve this. After hearing his story, Aether assures him that he is here to listen if he wants to talk more. Returning to the arena, they learn from Zhuhan that Beidou was summoned by Ningguang regarding the tournament. Kazuha fills Aether in on the details, explaining that by default, Fei is disqualified, which results in Aether being crowned "the champion." Kazuha warns Aether that the journey to Inazuma will be treacherous, especially once they enter the closed nation. He also mentions that the Alcor needs to prepare supplies for the trip and that he will be notified once everything is ready. In the meantime, he plans to travel across Liyue to see if he can find someone to reawaken the Vision, hoping that Aether and Paimon will enjoy their own journeys.
Act III: Omnipresence Over Mortals — The Omnipresent God[]
In Chapter II: Act III - Omnipresence Over Mortals, after Aether exits Tenshukaku, he and Paimon encounter the Resistance, and Kazuha is among them. Suddenly, the Shogun appears, cutting through the space behind Aether with the intent to execute him. In a miraculous turn of events, Kazuha resonates with his late friend’s Masterless Vision. Harnessing the combined power of both Visions, he blocks the Musou no Hitotachi and successfully knocks the Shogun back, saving Aether in the process.
Kazuha's Story Quest — Upon the Plain, a Purple Shadow[]
While wandering around Byakko Plain, Aether and Paimon are confronted by a samurai wielding a sword. After a fierce battle, they manage to fend him off, but the samurai quickly realizes that Aether is not Kazuha. Curious, Aether asks why he is so interested in Kazuha, but the samurai refuses to answer and departs. Aether notices that the samurai fought similarly to Kazuha, prompting Paimon to voice her concern for his safety. Remembering that The Crux is docked at Ritou, they decide to head there to warn him. Upon arriving in Ritou, Aether learns from Chao that Kazuha has been summoned to the Tenryou Commission Headquarters. He makes his way there and finds him in a meeting with Kujou Kamaji. Kamaji explains that Kazuha's clan has been wrongly blamed for past events, leading the Shogun to seek the restoration of their family name and wealth. Kazuha has recently become a topic of conversation throughout Inazuma for having blocked the Shogun's Musou no Hitotachi—an act deemed inconceivable by many. Eyewitnesses reported seeing him use his late friend's Electro Vision, causing speculation that he may have used a Delusion instead. Though Kazuha is intrigued by the prospect of restoring his clan's name, he hesitates to abandon his current life. He then asks Aether and Paimon why they came, and they inform him about the mysterious samurai pursuing him. Concerned for the safety of bystanders, Kazuha decides to investigate the matter alongside Aether, while Kamaji sends an alert to the Tenryou Commission.
Through the Mist, a Name Unveiled[]
Aether and Kazuha head to the Bantan Sango Detective Agency, where Ryuuji is humbled to meet Kazuha in person. However, he is confused by Kazuha’s inquiry about recent assaults. After a moment, Ryuuji recalls that a few days prior, two individuals went missing: Nagato, a collector, and Amenoma Yuuya, a samurai from the Amenoma Clan. Determined to uncover the truth, Kazuha decides to continue the investigation, and they proceed to the Amenoma Smithy to speak with Amenoma Tougo. At the smithy, Tougo expresses his bafflement over his nephew’s mysterious disappearance. He recalls that on the day Yuuya vanished, he gave him a cryptic look and mentioned bringing back a "great gift." He also notes that Yuuya was supposed to meet with Nagato, but a fire broke out at the warehouse that day. Kazuha mentions that Yuuya attacked a friend of his, which Tougo finds hard to believe but acknowledges that it could be linked to Yuuya’s strange behavior. With this new information, they decide to visit the Nagato household to speak with Nagato’s wife, Sachiko.
Sachiko explains that her husband’s obsession with collecting had driven them into debt, leading to heated arguments between them. Aether concludes that they are still missing key information and suggests they investigate the warehouse. Kazuha suspects ulterior motives might be involved, as the sales meeting could have been a catalyst for these events. Upon arriving at the outskirts of the city, they find the warehouse in ruins. Despite the collapse, Kazuha senses remnants of Tatarigami in the area and suspects that it endangered both men. Following the flow of malevolent energy, they confront a group of hilichurls and defeat them, discovering a letter that reveals Yuuya attacked Nagato for his sword and injured him. Kazuha continues to follow the trail to a small island off Inazuma City, where they finally find Yuuya. However, they soon realize that the sword he possesses is infused with Tatarigami and has taken control of him.
The sword introduces itself as a prized weapon from an Isshin smith, who had fled to Snezhnaya after failing to fulfill the Shogun's tasks. It had begun to possess people in a bid to return to Inazuma and prove itself as the ultimate weapon lost by the Shogun. The sword expresses its intention to possess Kazuha, believing that defeating him would showcase its strength, especially since Kazuha survived against the Shogun's Musou no Hitotachi.
After a fierce battle, Kazuha tells the sword that it has no chance of prevailing against the Shogun, as its values conflict with those of the Isshin Art. The sword, undeterred, threatens Yuuya’s life. Kazuha proposes a wager: he will allow the sword to possess him to test its strength in a real fight. If Kazuha’s perspective proves correct, the sword must abandon Yuuya, and the sword agrees. Kazuha decides to test this in battle by clearing the ronin at the Takatsukasa Clan's former secret hideout, instructing Yuuya to follow them silently.
Ere the End, a Glance Back[]
Arriving at the hideout, Kazuha begins to dispatch the ronin. He notes that the sword’s lack of maintenance has made it harder to use and that it has been trying to emulate him instead of truly controlling him. After defeating a Kairagi, the sword loses its Tatarigami essence, prompting Paimon to remark that it now looks like a "piece of junk." Just as they begin to discuss the sword's condition, Murayama and two Nobushi arrive. Kazuha swiftly defeats them, and the sword realizes its mistakes, apologizing for its actions. Wanting to make amends, it releases Yuuya, who agrees to a duel with Kazuha. Kazuha ultimately prevails. Kazuha reveals that the sword wishes to visit the smithy, and they return together, where Tougo is overjoyed to see Yuuya back. He learns about the entire incident and expresses regret over the sword’s troubled existence. Tougo also mentions that Ryuuji and others found Nagato badly wounded but alive. Kazuha explains that the sword wishes to possess him once more but decides instead to relinquish its consciousness and be reborn anew as the Kagotsurube Isshin, its original name. After discussing the sword’s fate and Kazuha promising to support them in their journey, they decide to return to Kamaji.
At the Tenryou Commission, Kamaji informs them that the situation has been resolved and that the Commission has decided not to charge Yuuya with any crimes. Kazuha introduces the new sword to Kamaji and declines the offer to stay in Inazuma, not wanting to get entangled in the conflicts between the Shogunate and the Sangonomiya Clan, despite Kamaji's intentions being benign. Nevertheless, Kamaji offers Kazuha the Shogunate's assistance should he ever need it. When Paimon asks where he plans to go next, Kazuha simply replies that he will follow wherever the wind takes him.
Quotes[]
- “But in Liyue, besides Captain Beidou, you are the only friend I have.”
- — Kazuha to Aether - "Tuned to the World's Sounds"
Fanon[]
Kazuther is one of Aether's most popular ships in the Genshin Impact fandom, thanks to the popularity of 4NEMO. While there are many who support Kazuther, the ship often finds itself overshadowed by more mainstream pairings such as Xiaother, Venther and Scaraether. On Kazuha's side, ships like KazuScara and Kazuyaka tend to dominate discussions and fanworks, but this doesn't prevent them from enjoying the dynamics between Kazuha and Aether. Fans of Kazuther often envision their dynamic as a "Friends to Lovers" narrative, where the deep bond and mutual respect they share gradually evolve into something more romantic. This angle adds a layer of emotional depth to their relationship, making it relatable to many. Currently, there are over 351 romantic works for Kazuther on Archive of Our Own (AO3), showcasing the creativity and passion of its supporters and besting Aether's sister's counterpart, the KazuLumi. These works range from lighthearted fluff to more serious explorations of their connection, demonstrating that, despite the overshadowing popularity of other ships, Kazuther still holds a cherished place in the hearts of its fans. As the Genshin Impact community continues to grow, there's always the potential for Kazuther to gain more recognition and appreciation among fans.
Fandom[]
FAN FICTION
- Kaedehara Kazuha/Aether tag on AO3
