Unveiling the Past: Xiao’s Forgotten Name and Untold History
The character Xiao, a stoic and powerful adeptus in Genshin Impact, is known for his dedication to protecting Liyue. But before he was known as Xiao, he bore another name, one steeped in history and suffering. So, what was Xiao’s old name? His original name, the one he bore as a Yaksha tasked with subduing demonic forces, was Alatus. This name, now rarely spoken, represents a significant part of his past, a past marked by enslavement and trauma.
Alatus: The Yaksha Before Xiao
The Five Foremost Yakshas
Long before he adopted the name Xiao, Alatus was one of the five foremost Yakshas dispatched by Morax (also known as Zhongli) to combat the residual curses left by fallen gods after the Archon War. These Yakshas were powerful beings tasked with quelling the demonic spirits that plagued Liyue. The other Yakshas were Bonanus, Bosacius, Indarias, and Menogias. Together, they were a formidable force.
Enslavement and Trauma
The story of Alatus takes a dark turn. Before his service under Morax, he was enslaved by an unnamed god. This enslavement was brutal, forcing Alatus to slaughter innocents and devour their dreams against his will. The weight of this trauma and the immense karmic debt he accumulated significantly shaped the character we know as Xiao today. The pain and suffering he endured under the unnamed god are the root of his aloof personality and internal struggles.
The Meaning Behind the Name “Alatus”
The name Alatus itself holds significance. It translates to “winged,” which aligns with several elements of Xiao’s lore. His true form is believed to be that of an illuminated beast, potentially a bird, further reinforcing the “winged” connotation. This name also connects to the Yakshas’ roles as protectors and bringers of order, often depicted with avian features in various cultures.
The Name “Xiao”: Protection and a New Identity
Zhongli’s Intervention
After enduring years of torment, Alatus was liberated by Morax, the Geo Archon. As part of this liberation and to protect him from the lingering influences of his past enslavement, Morax granted him the name Xiao. This name signifies a new beginning and the chance to break free from his former identity.
The Significance of “Xiao”
The name Xiao (魈), which translates to “Mountain Demon,” might seem ominous, but it carries deeper meaning. It represents his role as a protector, a force that safeguards Liyue from the dark forces lurking within. The name is also intentionally devoid of the grandiosity associated with his past as Alatus, perhaps a way to allow him to blend more easily within the mortal world. Additionally, “Xiao” has other meanings in Chinese, such as “dawn,” “little,” and “reverent of the elderly,” all adding layers to his character.
Why the Name Change?
The change from Alatus to Xiao wasn’t merely a renaming; it was a symbolic act of rebirth and protection. The act of taking on a new name was a deliberate effort by Zhongli to shield him from the karmic burden associated with his time under the unnamed god and to provide him with a sense of anonymity within Liyue.
The Reluctance to Reveal Alatus
Xiao’s hesitance to reveal his true name, Alatus, to others further emphasizes the painful past it represents. It is a name he associates with trauma and pain, and thus he prefers to keep it hidden from all but those closest to him.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Xiao a human?
No, Xiao is not human. He is an adeptus, a magical being of extraordinary power, and an illuminated beast. His true form is speculated to be that of a bird or bird-like creature.
2. What is an Adeptus?
An adeptus is a term for beings of immense power and magical capabilities in Genshin Impact, often associated with Liyue. They are usually immortal and have a unique connection with the world around them.
3. Who is Zhongli to Xiao?
Zhongli, the Geo Archon, is essentially Xiao’s benefactor and the one who granted him the name Xiao. He liberated him from enslavement and tasked him with protecting Liyue. They have a close relationship, bordering on a father-son dynamic.
4. What is Xiao’s Yaksha alias?
Xiao’s Yaksha alias is Alatus. This is the name he was known by as one of the five foremost Yakshas before he was given the name Xiao.
5. What is a Yaksha?
A Yaksha is a powerful being tasked with combatting demonic forces. The five foremost Yakshas were assembled by Morax to quell the remnants of the Archon War.
6. Why does Xiao wear a mask?
Xiao wears a mask to control and manage his karmic debt. When donned, the mask amplifies his combat abilities while simultaneously increasing his suffering. He uses it to protect Liyue.
7. Is Xiao’s true form a bird?
While his true form has not been definitively revealed in the game, the lore suggests that Xiao is an illuminated beast, and the strong association with the Garuda, a giant golden winged bird, strongly implies his true form is that of a bird or bird-like being.
8. What color is Xiao’s hair and eyes?
Xiao has dark green/teal hair and amber-brown eyes with a gradient design.
9. How old is Xiao?
As an adeptus, Xiao is over 2000 years old.
10. Is Xiao in love with Aether?
The game has hinted at a romantic connection between Xiao and Aether, particularly through specific in-game quests and poems. It’s left up to player interpretation, but their relationship is highlighted as having a strong emotional bond.
11. Who voices Xiao?
Xiao’s English voice actor is a female voice actor. She perfectly captures Xiao’s melancholic personality.
12. Why is Xiao so short?
Xiao’s short stature could be attributed to his trauma, enslavement, and torture as Alatus. It’s theorized that his growth was stunted during this period.
13. Does Venti know Xiao?
Yes, Venti and Xiao share a connection. Venti once saved Xiao from the effects of his negative karma by playing his flute.
14. What is Xiao’s relationship with the other Yakshas?
Xiao was part of a group of five foremost Yakshas, but the other four, Bonanus, Bosacius, Indarias, and Menogias, have all perished or been lost. He is the last remaining Yaksha from that original group.
15. What is the meaning behind Xiao’s tattoo?
Xiao’s tattoo, which resembles a vermillion bird, is thought to represent the southern direction and is linked to the mythological creature. It is another visual clue to his potential bird-like nature.