Collei (Genshin Impact)

Who is Collei?

Collei is a character within the Dendro category in the popular game Genshin Impact. Not only a playable character but also a prominent figure in the official manga, she takes on a central role in the storyline. Initially a victim of the Eleazar affliction due to Fatui human experimentation, Collei led a nomadic existence until a fateful encounter with Amber in Mondstadt altered the course of her life. Subsequently, Collei has undergone a transformative journey, breaking free from her past struggles, and presently, she plays the role of a trainee Forest Ranger in the Avidya Forest.

Personality of Collei

The turning point occurs when Amber shields Collei from Barnabas, leaving a lasting impact on Collei. Witnessing Amber’s determination to protect others sparks a realization within Collei, igniting her own desire to safeguard those around her. Following the sealing of her powers by Cyno, Collei chooses to embark on a journey to Sumeru alongside him, driven by a thirst for knowledge about the world.

Encountering the Traveler later, Collei’s growth is evident from her training under Tighnari. A newfound positivity radiates from her as she expresses deep admiration for Amber, whose compassion profoundly influences Collei’s behavior and interests. Inspired by Amber’s benevolence, Collei actively engages in her Forest Ranger duties, striving to be proactive, helpful, and friendly to everyone. Despite persistent challenges with literacy and Eleazar, Collei consciously sheds past pessimism, embracing a forward-focused mindset, determined to give her best in all endeavors.

Collei’s transformation goes beyond her interactions with others; she develops a profound sense of empathy that extends even to gods, challenging her earlier perception of them as forsaken entities. In a moment of reflection, she questions whether these deities, too, experience helplessness. Collei candidly acknowledges the “childish” nature of her previous hatred towards the world beyond the Fatui, expressing genuine remorse for her time in Mondstadt and expressing a desire to apologize.

Despite her enhanced perspective, it’s evident that Collei has not entirely left her trauma behind. While she has overcome bitterness, she struggles to open up about her past, avoiding the topic to sidestep painful memories. Her introverted tendencies lead her to seek solace in solitude, occasionally retreating to a tree hollow where she journals her troubles and frustrations.

Collei’s honesty is a notable trait, albeit one that reveals her struggles. She admits to being a less-than-adept liar, successfully convincing only Amber about her interest in Fatui research. Collei’s vulnerability manifests in panic attacks, breakdowns, and an aversion to physical contact. Notably, an innocent attempt by Paimon to touch her during their first meeting in Sumeru resulted in extreme fear and discomfort, triggering a flare-up of her ailment and rendering her bedridden the next day. These nuanced struggles further humanize Collei’s character, emphasizing the ongoing complexities of her emotional and physical journey.

Appearance of Collei

Collei opts for the medium female model, showcasing distinctive features with her short, tousled light green hair cascading to shoulder length. Complementing her unique appearance, her eyes radiate a striking shade of purple, almost bordering on magenta, adding a touch of individuality to her character design.

For manga

Character stories of Collei

In the vibrant community of Gandharva Ville, the Trainee Forest Ranger, Collei, is hailed with glowing praises such as “helpful,” “bright and sunny,” and “friendly and passionate.” Renowned for her unwavering commitment to forest patrol, Collei extends a warm hand of assistance to anyone in need, transcending societal boundaries.

Despite her outward enthusiasm and positivity, there lingers an air of mystery surrounding Collei. There are hints of a concealed past and unspoken thoughts that she guards closely, not yet ready to unveil to others. As she diligently carries out her patrols in the wooded areas, a tree hollow filled with cryptic notes may catch the eye, or faint whispers might tickle the ears nearby.

Any unexpected encounters with peculiar scenes or hushed conversations are best brushed off as whimsical pranks, akin to those of mischievous Aranaras. For within the sanctuary of a tree hollow lies secrets only it knows — at least for now. The enigmatic charm of Collei adds an intriguing layer to the sunny exterior, leaving room for curiosity and the discovery of hidden tales in the heart of the woods.

1st character story

In the pursuit of knowledge, literacy serves as the gateway to wisdom, yet Collei finds herself at the foot of the mountain of knowledge, just beginning her ascent. Upon her arrival in Gandharva Ville, even the usually outspoken Tighnari expressed hesitation, questioning whether she had entered the wrong door and inadvertently enrolled in preschool courses.

Despite the initial uncertainties, Collei eventually became a trainee, with Tighnari gathering an extensive array of books and documents to aid her literacy journey. Ranging from children’s literacy encyclopedias to academic papers, Collei’s reading repertoire expanded. However, her penchant for fairy tale picture books from Mondstadt remained a constant, chosen for their simpler language and abundant illustrations, allowing her to glean meaning even when unfamiliar with certain words.

As the curriculum demanded more than children’s books, Collei sought extracurricular reading materials. Travelers passing through Avidya Forest introduced her to the concept of “light novels” in Inazuma, enticing her with the promise of engaging narratives and a balance between readability and depth.

Eager to explore this new genre, Collei returned to her dormitory after a forest patrol with the latest volume of “Onibudou.” Excitement filled her as she embarked on what she hoped would be a captivating all-nighter. The plot’s allure, featuring phrases like “My sealed power!” and “The lonesome avenger!”, held her in its grip throughout the night, leaving her tossing and turning under her quilt until dawn. The enthralling world of “light novels” proved to be a compelling addition to Collei’s literary ventures, offering a welcome challenge and a source of immersive fascination beyond her usual readings.

2nd character story

In the mystical realm of Teyvat, a peculiar saying resonates, often invoked by those grappling with profound shame or embarrassment: “I just wanted the tree to open up and swallow me.” Collei, pacing through the woods, quietly utters this phrase, freshly acquired from the pages of a book.

Prior to her return to Sumeru, Collei made a heartfelt promise to a cherished friend – to evolve into an exceptional doctor, equipped with profound medical skills to alleviate the perpetual anguish endured by those in physical and mental torment.

However, wishes are fleeting; realizing them demands years of unwavering dedication. The recent examination once again cast Collei against the stark reality of bridging the gap between aspirations and actualities.

Overwhelmed with uncertainty, she grapples with the daunting task of confiding in Amber about her struggles. The prospect of seeking her master’s assistance in crafting a letter further compounds her unease, as voicing concerns about academic challenges and the need for emotional support feels like an insurmountable hurdle.

Fate intervenes when a tree hollow, seemingly appearing in response to her muted musings, emerges along her patrol route. A sanctuary of sorts, it beckons her to share her burdens, even if the thought of consulting an Aranara – a practice relegated to childhood tales – feels like a regression. Yet, the darkness within the hollow transforms into a formidable fortress, providing a respite from the external pressures that weigh heavily on Collei’s shoulders. In this unexpected haven, she finds temporary refuge, contemplating the complexities of her journey and the delicate balance between vulnerability and growth.

In the quiet introspection of her nature, Collei, an innate introvert, grapples with the challenge of presenting a flawless exterior. Despite her earnest efforts to emulate the outgoing and sunny disposition of Amber, she finds it impossible to mask the underlying weariness and loneliness that shadows her.

Seeking an outlet for her emotional burden, Collei turns to the hollow, pouring out the accumulated negativity that clung to her since returning to Sumeru. In this act of vulnerability, she unburdens herself, embracing the sanctuary provided by the empty hollow.

Days later, Tighnari, intrigued by Collei’s frequent patrols in a specific area, investigates her recent forest routes. To his surprise, he discovers elevated test scores accompanying her repeated journeys. Pondering the intriguing correlation, he muses to himself, wondering if Collei has found an unconventional means of enhancing her academic performance amidst the trees.

Acknowledging her unique approach, Tighnari decides to preserve that particular patrol route for Collei, allowing her the space she seems to have found solace in. With a nod to her resourcefulness, he assigns other Rangers to alternate routes, recognizing that sometimes unconventional methods can lead to unexpected, positive outcomes.

3rd character story

When it comes to practical exams, particularly those focused on “surviving in the wilderness,” Collei emerges as an exceptional performer. In the untamed jungles of Sumeru, where venomous creatures and lurking dangers abound, her competence as a Forest Ranger shines through, showcasing her thorough preparation for the unpredictable challenges of the wilderness.

While her literacy skills may lag behind her peers, hindering performance in written tests, Collei compensates with a practical and creative approach. Employing ingenious techniques such as wrapping thorny vines around her boots for enhanced traction or utilizing the toxic sap of poisonous mushrooms on hunting traps to maximize efficiency, she navigates the jungle with a blend of resourcefulness and adaptability.

Her unique survival skills extend beyond navigation, as she successfully extracts those lost in the woods, aids those accidentally poisoned, or assists those struck by wild beasts. Those who experience Collei’s rescues marvel at her distinctive yet reliable techniques, moved not only by her proficiency but also by her genuine kindness and boundless enthusiasm.

Facing grave dangers, enduring scarcity of food and supplies, or even comforting hysterical travelers, Collei radiates warmth in every circumstance. Unfazed by scars and indifferent to hunger, her primary focus remains offering assistance to those in need.

Yet, amid her impressive skills and altruistic endeavors, one peculiar aspect raises eyebrows – her unconventional crisis recipes. Willing to consume fireflies without hesitation or use crushed Zaytun Peach pits to replenish her energy, Collei’s approach to sustenance sparks curiosity and amusement among onlookers.

Encountering Collei inevitably prompts speculation about her past. What experiences could have shaped this seemingly innocent girl into one who views the wilderness as her home? The mystery surrounding her background adds an intriguing layer to the enigma that is Collei.

4th character story

Before her return to Sumeru, Collei traversed the vast expanse as a wanderer, a journey marked by the absence of a designated destination. This odyssey began amidst charred ruins or perhaps even earlier, when she grappled with a debilitating disease, and it seemed destined to extend endlessly into the abyss of total darkness.

Her companions, those who had fled with her from the ruins, faced a harsh fate. Lost in the ceaseless sandstorms or consumed by divine remains, they succumbed to the unforgiving circumstances. Ailing and cursed, they sought refuge in uninhabited jungles and wilderness, where Mother Nature, both merciful and cruel, offered no rejection due to their illness yet provided no respite despite their cries.

As her comrades faltered, those who endured shared valuable lessons, honing their survival skills in the most desperate of situations. However, when Collei’s final companion could no longer press on, she learned a stark lesson: the perilous cost of reaching out to others.

Their backs against a cliff, both utterly exhausted, the distant roar of a beast echoed. In a twist of fate or narrow passage, her sole remaining companion inadvertently sent her tumbling off the cliff. Panic-stricken, Collei managed to cling to a fragile twig, extending her hand and pleading for assistance.

Yet, in a moment pregnant with complexity, her companion gazed at her before escaping without hesitation. The predatory instinct of the approaching beast, however, allowed Collei to go unnoticed, desperately hanging onto the precipice.

Quietly retracting her hand, she clung to the fragile branch as the sounds above faded away—no more beastly roars, no more cries of her companion. While understanding the choices made, Collei harbored no resentment, acknowledging the uncertainty of her own actions if faced with a similar decision.

In that solitary moment, one unwavering thought crystallized in Collei’s mind: whether to extend a helping hand or seek assistance, she vowed, “I will never reach out to anyone again.”

5th character story

During a specific year’s Ludi Harpastum in Mondstadt, Collei once again found herself connected with another through the simple act of touching hands.

The city adorned itself with a dazzling array of lights and lanterns, the streets teeming with festive crowds as the sky gradually darkened. The lively stage performances added to the celebratory atmosphere.

Amidst this spectacle, a girl clad in fiery red seized Collei’s hand, leading her out of a cramped wooden box and into the bustling crowd. Around them, people cheered and applauded contestants engaging in games of hoops and slingshots.

These seemingly trivial games left Collei puzzled. Their childish nature seemed incongruent with the skills required for hunting in the wild. However, the red-clad girl reveled in the festivities, cheering at each triumph and generously distributing her won prizes to children.

Perplexed, Collei ventured to a quiet corner, picking up a slingshot to test her abilities. Surprisingly, one of her more than ten shots found its mark at the edge of the target.

Excitedly turning to share her success, Collei realized the girl in red had already departed.

Undeterred, Collei dedicated herself to practice, familiarizing herself with the sounds of drawing a bowstring and releasing darts. Over time, her skills improved until she seldom missed a shot out of ten.

With every pull of the bowstring, Collei recalled the thrill of hitting the target on that memorable night. She cherished the warmth of the girl’s hand, remembering how, amidst the crowd, it felt as warm as the sun.

Vision

The rain fell relentlessly, and a deluge of rocks, earth, and debris obstructed Collei’s path back.

In the midst of the downpour, Collei kindled a bonfire near the cliff, attempting to provide warmth to the shivering girl huddled beside her.

This river valley lay a full day’s journey from the woodlands typically patrolled by Collei. Alone, she might have braved the elements and returned despite the rain. However, the presence of a cold and hungry child, lost in the woods for an extended period, changed the situation. Collei had no choice but to wait.

The girl appeared pale, her forehead burning with fever, and she incessantly murmured her mother’s name.

Collei vividly recalled the girl’s mother, who had urgently sought help in Gandharva Ville. The anguish on her face, the silent plea for someone else to bear the suffering instead of her daughter – it was a familiar expression to Collei.

The family had been part of a caravan crossing the river valley. During a campsite rest, the playful daughter had ventured into the deep forest, unbeknownst to the caravan. When her absence was noticed, frantic searches proved futile.

In desperation, the mother returned to Gandharva Ville, seeking assistance. Now, in the midst of the rain-soaked valley, Collei found herself awaiting a break in the weather, determined to help reunite a worried mother with her lost child.

Recently, Tighnari found himself tied up in city meetings with other Forest Rangers, leaving a critical situation demanding immediate attention. Collei couldn’t afford to wait for their return, and the heavy rain ruled out relying on search and rescue dogs.

Without hesitation, she grabbed her essentials – pack, bow, and arrows – and plunged into the forest alone.

Amid the occasional growls blending with thunder and rain, Collei was reminded of unsettling memories from her past – memories she had long sought to avoid.

As the rain persisted, Tighnari received the news and rushed over without pause. Along the cliff, traces of a fierce battle unfolded. Fallen beasts lay scattered in the distance, while Collei and the girl slept peacefully, leaning on each other.

Tighnari’s heart tightened. Collei, he knew, lacked the capability to achieve this alone, unless she had tapped into a power best left dormant.

Realizing the potential consequences for Collei’s well-being, Tighnari felt an urgent need to contact General Mahamatra. This newfound strength, akin to drinking poison to quench thirst, could exacerbate Collei’s condition.

The footsteps of Tighnari stirred Collei awake. Motioning for silence, she gestured to the sleeping girl beside her.

Worriedly, Tighnari questioned, “Collei… Did you…”

Collei shook her head, slowly releasing the clenched fist that had marked a night of vigilance.

“Master, I’ve grown stronger! I won’t let anyone’s efforts go in vain. From now on, I’ll protect everyone.”

In her hand glowed a Vision, a silent testament to the newfound strength that had surfaced within her.

1. ^{DICTIONARY ENTRY} Genshin Impact. (n.d.). Collei. In Fandom. [Fandom]
2. ^WEBSITE Rose, D. (2022, September 26). Genshin Impact Collei team – the best team comp. PCGamesN. [PCGamesN]
3. ^WEBSITE IGN Contributors. (2022b, September 29). Collei Banner, Skills, Talents, and Constellations. IGN. [IGN]