Genshin Impact Reveals All Four Shades and Teases Nod-Krai in New Interlude Trailer

Genshin Impact has officially unveiled the identities of all Four Shades of the Heavenly Principles, setting the stage for one of the most pivotal chapters in Teyvat's evolving narrative. Revealed in the latest interlude trailer released on July 9, 2025, this long-anticipated moment signals the approach of an epic confrontation between Celestia’s enigmatic forces and the many factions of Teyvat.

A Clash of Forces: Shades, Fatui, and the Traveler's Fate

The core of Genshin Impact’s story has always revolved around the Traveler’s journey across the elemental nations — a journey that seems destined to culminate in a confrontation with Celestia and the Heavenly Principles. Now, with the Fatui Harbingers on one side and the Four Shades on the other, the Traveler’s allegiance — and ultimate path — remains a mystery.

Introducing Nod-Krai: A New Chapter Begins

As HoYoverse prepares to open the gates of the upcoming region Nod-Krai on September 10, 2025, all signs suggest that this new land will become the central battleground for several long-running plotlines. In a recent behind-the-scenes video, developers hinted that the storyline — dubbed "The Song of the Welkin Moon" — could span an entire year. The tale will reportedly involve major factions like the Hexenzirkel, Fatui Harbingers, and the Knights of Favonius.

Now, the interlude trailer confirms that the Four Shades will also emerge as key players:

• Ronova
• Naberius
• Istaroth
• Asmoday

Each character appears with their own distinct aesthetic and narrative weight, with Asmoday being confirmed as the Ruler of Space, and a unique bond between Naberius and Rhinedottir hinted at in the trailer.

The Palestar Edict and Columbina’s Rebellion

One of the most intriguing revelations in the trailer is the Palestar Edict, a mysterious decree that appears tied to Columbina. The Fatui are seen being summoned back to Snezhnaya and dispatched to Nod-Krai under orders to retrieve her. Whether the directive came from Pierro or the Tsaritsa is unclear, but the trailer strongly implies that Columbina may have gone rogue, pursuing her own motives independent of the Fatui.

Players also catch glimpses of Pierro and Columbina, with the latter rumored to become a playable character during the Nod-Krai chapter.

Paimon and Asmoday: Fan Theory Resurfaces

Longtime fans may recognize a callback to a theory that has circulated since the game’s launch — that Paimon and Asmoday are the same being. The trailer doesn’t confirm this directly, but it does hint that Asmoday has switched sides in the greater conflict and now serves a new master — one she loves more than herself. These cryptic lines have reignited speculation that Paimon may have had a hand in separating the Traveler from their twin.

What’s Next?

The trailer closes with a sweeping look at Nod-Krai’s vast and varied landscapes, suggesting a bold new aesthetic and deeper storytelling ahead. Fans can expect to see more of Nod-Krai and its cast of characters during Gamescom 2025.

With the full cast of the Four Shades now revealed and the Song of the Welkin Moon storyline gaining momentum, Genshin Impact is gearing up for one of its most ambitious arcs yet — one that may finally bring the Traveler face to face with the gods themselves.