(This is just a set-up post to make a later introduction work better. I've already cleared this with Blue, so....)
Unmapped Landmass, Location Unknown
The library door creaked open, and a young man with two-toned hair quickly strode through, kneeling in front of the wizened priest seated at a table at the far end of the room.
"You wished to speak with me, Elder Vision?"
The Elder regarded the man with a warm, almost fatherly expression. "Indeed I did, young Xhai. It would appear the time has come for you to earn your wings at last."
Xhai's eyebrows rose in surprise, and he couldn't help raising his head slightly to try and get a glimpse of the Elder's face. "Really?"
The Elder chuckled at the barely-concealed eagerness in Xhai's tone. "Yes, really. I trust you are aware of the distortions in reality that have been occuring with alarming regularity in recent times?"
Xhai nodded. "Yes, Elder. The other Aspects speak of little else at mealtimes."
The Elder gave a grunt of something akin to disapproval before continuing. "I see. Regardless, we believe we have a rough location for the source of these distortions. They appear to be emanating from somewhere on the mainland. I have spoken with the other Visions, and we have reached the consensus that one of our young Aspects should be given the task of resolving this issue."
This time, Xhai could not keep the surprise from his voice. "Me? I am honoured to be selected for such a task.....but.....I do not know if I am ready for this...."
The Elder's tone was warm, but reproachful. "You think too little of yourself, Xhai. You are young, and still learning the ways of the Aspect, true. But you have great potential, and this will serve to grant you the experience you need to truly realise your talent, of this I am certain. So, Aspect Xhai, your mission is as follows: Travel to the mainland, locate the source of these disturbances, and do whatever you must to silence their threat for good. Do you understand?"
Xhai's head lowered again in a respectful nod. "I understand Elder. I accept this task and swear to dedicate everything I am to ensuring its completion."
The Elder responded with a warm smile. "Well spoken, young hunter. Rest up tonight. One of our Warbirds will take you to the mainland in the morning. I have no doubt that when you return you will have many new stories to share with us." Clasping a fist over his heart, the Elder recited the first part of the Falcon's Creed "May your wings beat strong...."
Mirroring his action, Xhai finished it "....and your talons strike true. Please excuse me, Elder. I must prepare for my journey." Rising, he again gave a respectful bow to the Elder before turning on his heel and striding from the room, eyes glittering with newfound determination.