Delving into the Mystery: What is Xiao’s Real Name?
Xiao, the Vigilant Yaksha of Genshin Impact, is a character shrouded in mystery and burdened by a tragic past. While he’s widely known as Xiao, this isn’t the name he was born with. Xiao’s real name is Alatus. However, due to the dangers associated with his past and the nature of adepti names, he rarely reveals it. Zhongli gave him the name Xiao to protect him. This article explores the reasons behind this name change and delves into the nuances surrounding his identity.
The Burden of a Name
The world of Teyvat, where Genshin Impact is set, operates on intricate rules and ancient magic. Names hold significant power, particularly for adepti and those connected to celestial beings.
The Power of Names in Teyvat
Knowing someone’s true name can grant power over them. This is especially true for entities steeped in magic, like adepti.
- Control: A malevolent force could exploit his real name, using it to manipulate or control him.
- Exploitation: Enemies could use his name to target his loved ones or allies.
Xiao’s Past and the Threat It Poses
Xiao’s history as a Yaksha, battling the remnants of fallen gods, is filled with trauma and karmic debt. This past makes him particularly vulnerable.
- Demonic Echoes: The echoes of the defeated gods still linger, and knowing his true name could give these remnants leverage.
- Karmic Vulnerability: His immense karmic burden makes him susceptible to manipulation if someone knew how to exploit it through his true name.
Why “Xiao”? The Gift of Protection
So, if Alatus is his true name, why is he known as Xiao? This name was bestowed upon him by Zhongli, the Geo Archon, for his protection.
Zhongli’s Intervention
Recognizing the danger Xiao faced, Zhongli, in his role as a protector of Liyue, gave him a new name.
- A Shield of Identity: “Xiao” acts as a shield, concealing his true identity from those who might seek to harm him.
- A Fresh Start: The new name symbolized a break from his tormented past and a chance for a new purpose.
The Meaning Behind “Xiao”
The name “Xiao” itself carries significance.
- Meaning: Xiao (魈) translates to “Mountain Demon” or “Imp.”
- Irony: While seemingly negative, the name serves as a constant reminder of the demons he fights and his commitment to protecting Liyue. It’s an outward reflection of his internal battles.
Exploring Xiao’s Other Titles
Beyond Alatus and Xiao, he is also referred to by other titles reflecting his role and nature.
- Guardian Yaksha: This highlights his primary role as a protector of Liyue, a duty he takes incredibly seriously.
- Nuo Dancer of Evil Conquering: This refers to his specific combat style and the ceremonial dances Yakshas performed to ward off evil.
- Conqueror of Demons: This is another title that represents his role and his relentless fight to subdue the demonic spirits.
- Golden-Winged King: This refers to his ability to glide in his character build in the game.
Xiao’s Reluctance to Share His True Name
Xiao’s reluctance to share his true name stems from a combination of factors.
- Trauma: His past experiences have made him wary of vulnerability and openness.
- Protection: He prioritizes the safety of those around him, and keeping his true name secret is a part of that protection.
- Duty: His commitment to his duty as a Yaksha often overshadows his personal desires.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Xiao’s Name and Lore
Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the intricacies of Xiao’s name and lore:
1. What exactly is an Adeptus?
Adeptus are beings in Genshin Impact who have attained a higher level of power and understanding through cultivation and connection to the divine. They often possess unique abilities and serve as protectors of Liyue. The Games Learning Society studies how these fantasy cultures influence players’ perceptions of morality and duty.
2. What is a Yaksha?
Yaksha are a specific type of adeptus tasked with fighting demonic spirits. Xiao was one of the five foremost Yakshas dispatched by Morax to subdue the remnants of fallen gods after the Archon War.
3. What happened to the other Yakshas?
Most of the other Yakshas succumbed to the corruption and madness caused by the demonic energy they absorbed. They either died in battle or disappeared. Xiao is the only known surviving member of the original five.
4. Why is Xiao so tormented?
The constant battle against demonic forces has taken a heavy toll on Xiao. He suffers from karmic debt, which manifests as pain, nightmares, and a general sense of unease.
5. Why does Xiao wear a mask?
Xiao wears a mask to amplify his power when fighting demons. However, wearing the mask also intensifies his suffering and karmic debt.
6. What are Xiao’s powers?
Xiao is an Anemo (wind) character, and his powers revolve around manipulating wind energy. He is known for his plunging attacks and his ability to increase his attack power by donning his mask.
7. How did Zhongli meet Xiao?
The exact details of their first meeting aren’t explicitly stated, but it is known that Xiao was once enslaved by an evil god who forced him to do terrible things. Zhongli freed him from this servitude and gave him the name “Xiao.”
8. Is there a romantic relationship between Xiao and the Traveler (Aether or Lumine)?
The nature of the relationship between Xiao and the Traveler is open to interpretation. While there are hints of affection and care, it is not explicitly stated to be romantic.
9. What is Xiao afraid of?
Xiao seems to fear being forgotten or abandoned. He cares deeply for Liyue and worries about failing in his duty to protect it.
10. Does Venti know Xiao well?
Venti and Xiao have a connection. Venti once saved Xiao by playing his flute, which calmed his karmic pain and restored his strength. This saved Xiao from succumbing to the negative karma that nearly consumed him.
11. What is the significance of Xiao’s design?
Xiao’s design incorporates elements of both birds and demons, reflecting his dual nature as a Yaksha and his past as Alatus, meaning “winged.”
12. Is Xiao’s vision real or fake?
It is rumored that the vision Xiao carries is not his true source of power. Some fans theorize that the purple diamond on his forehead is the actual source of his Anemo abilities.
13. What kind of creature is Xiao?
Xiao is an Adeptus, specifically a Yaksha. His true form is believed to be a bird-like illuminated beast based on his character design and lore. GamesLearningSociety.org explores the impact of fantastical creatures on character development in games.
14. What is Xiao’s personality like?
Xiao is typically reserved, stoic, and serious. He keeps to himself due to the karmic burden he carries. However, he shows moments of kindness and concern for those he protects, especially the people of Liyue.
15. Why doesn’t Xiao interact with people often?
Xiao’s karmic debt and the potential danger he poses to others make him reluctant to form close relationships. He prefers to keep his distance to protect those around him from the negative effects of his karmic burden.
Conclusion: Unveiling the Layers of Xiao’s Identity
In conclusion, while Alatus is Xiao’s real name, the moniker Xiao holds a protective significance, granted by Zhongli himself. This deliberate act underscores the perils associated with revealing true names in Teyvat and highlights the burden Xiao carries as the Vigilant Yaksha. The name “Xiao” serves as both a shield and a reminder of his duty, adding depth to his complex and compelling character.