Genshin Impact: Who Are the Heavenly Principle’s Four Shades?

In Genshin Impact, you might assume that tales of old gods from long-past eras have no bearing on your usual tasks, but the past is persistently intertwined in this game world. The story of the Four Shades forms the very foundation of Teyvat’s power system. Born from the Heavenly Principles, these entities are the reason for the current workings of the world. As you delve deeper into unraveling Celestia’s secrets, it is inevitable that these ancient figures will grow more significant in our ongoing journey. Knowing their identities isn’t exclusive to lore enthusiasts; it’s about being ready for what lies ahead in our own epic tale.

Key Takeaways

The Four Shades are the ultimate enforcers: Created by the Primordial One, these four beings were tasked with governing the core laws of Teyvat—Time, Space, Life, and Death. They are the direct agents of the Heavenly Principles, making them a power above even the Archons.
The community is solving the mystery: With Istaroth confirmed as the Shade of Time, the identities of the other three are a hot topic for debate. Theories point to characters we already know, like Paimon or the Unknown God, turning the lore hunt into a massive community-wide investigation.
This lore is a preview of what’s next: Understanding the Shades isn’t just for history buffs; it’s your key to predicting future plot twists. Their inevitable return will likely cause major conflicts with the Seven Archons and reveal the deepest secrets of Celestia.

Who Are the Heavenly Principle’s Four Shades?

If you’ve delved deep into the intricate stories of Genshin Impact, you might have encountered references to the Heavenly Principles and their enigmatic emissaries, collectively known as the Four Shades. These entities were born from the Primordial One shortly after its arrival in Teyvat. Their role was pivotal in sculpting the world and setting the fundamental rules of existence, effectively serving as the initial designers of reality. Although many aspects about them remain veiled in secrecy, ancient writings offer a vivid depiction of each Shade’s intended domain of influence.

These Four Aspects were pure manifestations of the Primordial One’s intent, each encapsulating a fundamental principle of the cosmos. As detailed in the game’s text titled “Before Sun and Moon“, they symbolize:

1. Harmony: A balance between order and chaos.
2. Destiny: The unavoidable progression of events.
3. Growth: The evolution and development of life.
4. Time: The continuous flow and cycle of existence.

Time: The most well-known of the group, Istaroth, holds dominion over time and its many currents.
Space: An unnamed Shade who governs the physical dimensions and spatial laws of Teyvat.
Life: A Shade, possibly named Naberius, who oversees the essence of life, growth, and vitality.
Death: A Shade, potentially named Ronova, who presides over the end of life and the cycle of mortality.

In unison, these four entities strived to establish harmony amidst a turbulent realm. However, following the conflict with the Second Comer, their influence in Teyvat significantly diminished. Although we know one by name and can identify the domains of the others, scholars are passionately discussing their current personas and locations. Solving the mystery behind their identities is crucial for grasping the real hierarchy of Celestia and the destiny of Teyvat itself.

First, Who is the Primordial One?

Before we delve into the enigma surrounding the Four Shades, it’s crucial we discuss their creator first. This is like knowing a final boss’ history before encountering his key lieutenants. So, let’s begin with the entity at the pinnacle of Teyvat’s celestial system: the Primordial Being.

In a distant time, an incredibly potent entity originating from beyond our celestial sphere made its way to Teyvat. Often referred to as the Primordial One in-game, you might recognize it by another the Heavenly Principles. This is the supreme force governing both Celestia and the mortal realm below. As an extraterrestrial being, it challenged the initial rulers of the world, the seven mighty Dragon Sovereigns, in a conflict that changed the face of Teyvat forever. Following its triumph, the Primordial One restructured the planet, instating the fundamental principles and order that rule over Teyvat as we know it today.

As a gamer, I can tell you that even the mightiest of us couldn’t handle an entire game world alone, especially after a major revamp. That’s where the Four Shades step in. The Primordial One, our game’s creator, fashioned these four unique entities to act as his direct representatives. Their main job is to keep tabs on the game and preserve the divine order that the Primordial One established. In essence, they are the extensions of the Primordial One’s will, each probably assigned to a specific crucial aspect. When we talk about the Four Shades, we’re actually referring to the direct agents of the most powerful and enigmatic force in our game world.

What the Lore Tells Us About the Four Shades

The majority of our knowledge regarding the Four Shades is derived from scattered tales, chiefly a hard-to-find in-game text. This creates an intriguing atmosphere as it feels like we’re all participating in a collective detective work. Unlike mere minor deities, these four entities are direct offspring of the Primordial One, the first creator god of Teyvat. You might liken them to embodiments of the Primordial One’s intentions, each holding immense power and fulfilling a specific role. They were the original upholders of the “cosmic laws” that rule over our world. Although the facts are hazy, the legends provide us with sufficient hints to begin joining the dots and developing fascinating theories about their identities and activities.

Unpacking the “Before Sun and Moon” Texts

Our main source for information is the in-game book titled “Before Sun and Moon,” which can be found within Enkanomiya. This text reveals that following the defeat of the Seven Sovereigns, the Primordial One split itself into four radiant reflections. These reflections were assigned as representatives and guardians for the newly formed world. It’s intriguing to note that their duty wasn’t merely to enforce rules; they were also granted the power to adjust them when needed. This indicates a degree of autonomy and intelligence beyond mere servitude, leading many in the community to speculate about their real identity and alliances, as their role remains somewhat mysterious.

Meet Istaroth: The One Confirmed Shade

In Teyvat’s chronicles, there is only one Shade whose presence can be unequivocally acknowledged – Istaroth, revered as the Goddess of Moments or Time, or simply Kairos. Her imprint has been subtly interwoven through the fabric of Teyvat’s history, though often unacknowledged by name. The folk of Mondstadt once honored her together with Barbatos, and she was instrumental in aiding the people of Inazuma by cultivating the Sacred Sakura. Istaroth’s mythology hints at her ability to control time and space, making her an extraordinarily potent entity that has been working covertly for countless millennia. Her reality affirms that Shades are not mere figments of imagination but have tangibly impacted the world we traverse.

The Great Debate: Who Are the Other Three Shades?

Following the revelation that Istaroth belongs to the Four Shades, fans of Genshin Impact are abuzz with theories regarding the identities of the remaining three. According to the game’s lore, these Four Shades are mighty entities acting as messengers for Celestial Principles. Each one symbolizes a distinct aspect of reality, ensuring harmony within the world. With only Istaroth’s name unveiled thus far, players are left to decipher hints from in-game texts, item descriptions, and mysterious conversations.

This enigma has evolved into one of the most contentious discussions among mythology aficionados. Who might wield a power second only to the Primordial One? The list of contenders spans from familiar characters to figures cloaked in ancient lore. Is our floating ally more than meets the eye? What about the elusive deity that ambushed us at the start of our quest? Or could the solution be hidden in a forgotten story about three sisters who once governed the night sky? The theories are numerous, and each one boasts its own fervent following. Let’s delve into the most prominent ones to see which ones carry the most credibility.

Could Our Emergency Food Be a God? The Paimon Theory

As a devoted fan, I can’t help but ponder the intriguing theory that has been right under our noses all along. The enigmatic Paimon, who tags along on our adventures and claims friendship with ease, seems to be shrouded in mystery. Fans have long wondered if her mysterious past and sudden arrival hint at a more significant role. Could she possibly be one of the Four Shades? The evidence is intriguing, even convincing. Her appearance incorporates motifs similar to those seen in Celestia, and her name, like many gods in Teyvat, stems from the Ars Goetia.

The group has noticed that despite her limited knowledge, she possesses a great deal as well, leading the Traveler with an almost intuitive sense of navigation. If she is a Shade who’s forgotten her past or lost her abilities, it could account for her innocent demeanor while suggesting a hidden power waiting to be reactivated.

Connecting the Shades to the Unknown God

The God we don’t know, the one who split up the Traveler twins and left us in Teyvat, is also a strong possibility. This deity functions as an enforcer of cosmic rules, which fits perfectly with the role of a Shade. Shades are supposed to be messengers, and this unknown God definitely conveyed a severe warning to the Travelers for disregarding the world’s laws. Her title, “Preserver of Cosmic Laws,” strongly suggests that she is part of this divine hierarchy.

This theory implies that the Four Shades might not all be as benign as Istaroth seems; instead, the Unknown God could symbolize a strict, unyielding facet of reality, such as “Order” or “Law.” Her association with the Celestial Principles is unmistakable, making her a strong candidate for one of the vacant positions.

Are the Three Moon Sisters Involved?

To fully understand this theory, we need to delve into the ancient history of Teyvat, focusing on the tale of the Three Moon Sisters – Aria, Sonnet, and Canon. These celestial beings shared the sky’s rule in a perpetual cycle of creation, destruction, and renewal, until a catastrophic event occurred. Their narrative revolves around crucial themes of life, demise, and temporal change, which bear striking resemblance to the core principles that the Shades are designed to symbolize.

It’s possible that since we need three distinct Shades and there are three of them, they might have been the initial bearers of these titles. Alternatively, they could have collectively symbolized a single Shade. The fact that Istaroth is the Shade of Time aligns intriguingly with the sisters’ tale, hinting at a possible power struggle or transition in Teyvat’s ancient history. The stories about the Three Moon Sisters are incomplete, opening up many possibilities for interpretation.

Why This Ancient Lore Matters for Your Adventure

Instead of delving into ancient tales without purpose, consider that in Genshin Impact, the past continues to influence the present. The saga of the Primordial One and the Four Shades isn’t merely a tale found in old books; it shapes Teyvat’s current political and mystical terrain significantly. By comprehending these powerful entities resembling gods, you gain an advantage in predicting where the main narrative might be heading. Think of this knowledge as having inside tips on the cosmic events unfolding over thousands of years.

In each unexplored territory and encounter with an Archon, they abide by guidelines established by the Celestial Principles. The Shades were initially tasked with enforcing these rules. As the Traveler delves deeper into Teyvat’s mysteries and uncovers secrets of Celestia, it is likely that these ancient beings will emerge from obscurity to take center stage. Understanding their identities and what they symbolize will aid in deciphering future plot developments, character intentions, and the destiny of Teyvat. This isn’t mere backstory; it serves as a guide for upcoming events.

How the Shades Could Shape Future Quests

The Four Entities aren’t mere historical artifacts; they were designed to be potent messengers of Celestial Doctrines. Their existence hints at their potential involvement in upcoming narratives, serving as mentors, adversaries, or cosmic entities we must deal with. Each Entity might embody a fundamental principle – such as Istaroth’s association with time – so quests may involve directly manipulating these elements. For instance, there could be a quest where you collaborate (or compete) with an Entity to change a timeline or reestablish the equilibrium between life and death in a particular area. The Four Entities are the cornerstone for comprehending the fundamental rules of this world, and future quests will likely compel us to engage with them.

The Impact on Celestia and the Seven Archons

In Teyvat, the Celestial Guidelines serve as the highest authority, yet it’s the Seven Earthly Rulers who oversee day-to-day affairs. This establishes a familiar power structure: who truly wields control? The Spiritual Agents, being emissaries of the Celestials, might seem to uphold Celestia’s dictates, potentially setting them against an Archon. It’s worth noting that in this world, rules can be flexible, and a divine intervention by a Shade could spark widespread turmoil in a nation. This opens up possibilities for thrilling adventures where we may need to navigate the aftermath of a confrontation between an Archon and a Shade, testing the very fabric of the order we’ve grown accustomed to.

What’s Your Theory?

Here’s where the real excitement unfolds! Genshin Impact’s storyline offers tantalizing hints to set us off, but the rest is largely left for each of us to decipher. The enigma of the Four Shades stands as one of Teyvat’s greatest riddles, and everyone has their own interpretation of its significance. We can’t wait to learn about your perspective on it!

It’s clear that the Four Shades were designed to represent the Heavenly Principles, yet they possess the ability to alter the rules when required. In real-world application, does this mean they are covertly assisting specific characters or manipulating events unseen by us? Or could it be that they are engaged in a more intricate and prolonged strategy we’re not fully aware of yet? Now that Istaroth has been identified as the Shade of Time, the question remains: might one of the remaining Shades (Life, Death, or Space) be concealed among the characters we already know, operating under our very noses?

Frequently Asked Questions

As a gamer, I’d put it like this: “Hey, is the Primordial One and the set of Heavenly Principles the same entity? In the world of Teyvat, it seems that the ‘Primordial One’ is the name for the being who defeated dragons, shaped our world, and is essentially the ruler. The ‘Heavenly Principles’, on the other hand, are the laws and divine order this ruler established. You might think of them as the rules by which this world operates. Interestingly, the Unknown God refers to herself as the ‘Sustainer of Heavenly Principles’, indicating she upholds these rules. So, you could say the Primordial One is the boss, and the Heavenly Principles are its guidelines.

Intriguingly, we’re only familiar with a single entity referred to as a Shade. Our knowledge primarily stems from an old text belonging to a long-lost civilization. Istaroth, the Time Goddess, is referenced in various historical documents across Teyvat, making her identity undeniable. As for the other three Shades, they appear to have slipped into obscurity, possibly due to voluntary disappearance or a massive event. The scarcity of data surrounding them has sparked countless speculations within the community about their current identities.

To read the Before Sun and Moon book, you’ll want to explore the Enkanomiya region in Inazuma. This book is obtained as a reward for completing a collection quest. You’ll need to search for five separate books hidden across the area. Once you’ve found them all, speak with the NPC Ema at the Dainichi Mikoshi to get the complete text. It may require some effort, but experiencing the lore up close is definitely worth it!

Instead of categorizing the Shades as good guys or villains, it appears they function more like embodiments of natural forces. For instance, Istaroth has assisted both in Mondstadt and Inazuma, suggesting a benevolent side. However, if the Unknown God is a Shade, her behavior was clearly hostile towards the Traveler. It seems their morality isn’t straightforward; it may depend on whether one upholds or defies the laws they were designed to uphold.

What’s puzzling about Paimon theory is why she seems so frail and forgetful if she’s a Shade. Most people believe that she’s in a very weakened state, possibly because of punishment from Celestia, an injury from a past battle, or her own choice to limit her power and memories for some reason. It’s possible that her current form is just a disguise or the result of a past event, leaving her with only remnants of her true identity and abilities.

2025-07-14 15:30