Shenhe and Cloud Retainer: Unraveling the Adeptus Mystery in Genshin Impact
Have you seen the frost-kissed beauty in Genshin Impact? Her name is Shenhe, and she’s not just another character with a polearm. Her story is as captivating as a Liyuean opera, linked to the famous Adeptus, Cloud Retainer. Let’s explore their connection and Shenhe’s background.
Shenhe’s Bond with Cloud Retainer: More Than Just a Master-Disciple Thing
Shenhe refers to Cloud Retainer as “master.” This title shows a deep commitment. Cloud Retainer acts as Shenhe’s guardian and mentor. After a traumatic event in Shenhe’s childhood, she took her in. We’ll discuss that trauma later; it seems everyone in Teyvat has a tragic past.
Shenhe did not start as an Adeptus. She comes from a family of exorcists. A big change occurred, leading her to become Cloud Retainer’s pupil. Officially, Shenhe is only Cloud Retainer’s student. But her skills caught the attention of other Adepti. Imagine being trained by a council of immortals. No pressure at all!
Cloud Retainer taught Shenhe more than just combat. She raised her like a parent. After another traumatic incident involving Shenhe’s father, she stepped up. Picture a crane-like Adeptus caring for a human child. It resembles a fairy tale, filled with elemental bursts and magic.
About that “second daughter” mention in Version 2.4—it’s accurate. Cloud Retainer calls her second daughter in a unique manner. However, she isn’t Shenhe’s biological mother. Their bond is more like mentor and beloved protégé than traditional motherhood. It’s complex but heartwarming.
Shenhe’s True Identity: Human, Cursed, and Exceptionally Composed
Let’s address a common misunderstanding: Shenhe is human. Despite her poise and Adepti skills, she’s not immortal. Many mistake her for an Adeptus due to her grace and associations. Just because you visit a library doesn’t make you a librarian.
Now, the curse aspect. Shenhe was born with the “curse of calamity.” Quite ominous, huh? She claims she’s “fated to bring harm to those around me.” Cheerful indeed! It’s like having a permanent cloud of misfortune above you, which explains her reserved nature.
The Adepti suggested binding her soul with those red ropes she wears. These ropes are not mere accessories; they regulate her darker urges. Think of it as a magical straightjacket but stylish. It shows her commitment to personal safety and community well-being!
Before her transformation through Adepti training, Shenhe lived as a typical child, daughter of exorcist parents. Exorcism clearly runs in her lineage, given her capability to defeat gods later on. But her early years took a tragic turn, shaping who she became.
Decoding Shenhe’s Look: White Hair, Red Ropes, and Crane Vibes
Shenhe’s look is striking, telling its own story. Starting with her hair: that radiant white isn’t natural; it comes from severing ties with the mortal realm. This ritual involved a special comb from Cloud Retainer. With each use, her hair turned white, signifying her dedication to the Adepti.
Bizarrely, Shenhe once sported black hair. Old teasers show this younger version of her. The contrast makes the white hair transformation more dramatic. It underscores the change she underwent upon embracing the Adepti lifestyle.
The red ropes are not only decorative; they are vital to controlling her dark impulses. They symbolize her curse and inner balance. These ropes serve as visual representations of her struggle with herself, elegantly encased in red cords.
Shenhe’s attire resembles a crane intentionally. Her name, “申鹤/Shēn Hè,” includes the character for crane, and it reflects in her design choices. The bodysuit resembles a crane’s slender legs while the loose top mimics its feathery form. This design connects her to Cloud Retainer and the Adepti’s world.
Shenhe’s Backstory: Abandonment, Gods, and Immense Strength
Now, let’s delve into Shenhe’s darker past. At age six, her mother died, and instead of comfort, her father abandoned her. Yes, abandoned! Left in the wilds, young Shenhe was found by Cloud Retainer. It’s a tale of despair turned hope with some very dark beginnings.
However, it gets worse. Shenhe’s father wasn’t just absent; he became malicious after his wife’s passing. A member of the Tianheng Thaumaturges clan, he spiraled into madness and tried to sacrifice Shenhe to a “malevolent god.” Talk about taking despair to extreme levels! This ordeal explains much of Shenhe’s emotional struggles.
Incredibly, little Shenhe didn’t just submit to despair when facing this god. Instead, she fought back bravely for days without food or water. Shockingly, she overcame a god! A six-year-old defeating a deity showcases her immense fortitude.
For those who doubt her strength, remember her ability to lift massive boulders effortlessly. Recall when she carried a giant rock back to Liyue? That strength is far beyond ordinary human capacity. Shenhe embodies power sparked by trauma and wisdom gained through Adepti training.
Shenhe’s Social Circle: Aunt to Chongyun, Frenemy to Xingqiu, and Shipping Galore
Let’s switch gears and explore Shenhe’s social circle with other Genshin characters. First is Chongyun. Players may initially think they are siblings, but Shenhe is actually his aunt! Aunt Shenhe! While there’s an age gap of 3-5 years, she is older but still relatable to her nephew.
Next is Xingqiu. Their relationship is complicated. It seems that Shenhe harbors some disdain for Xingqiu. Why? Misunderstandings, mostly! Xingqiu was simply relaying a joke to the Traveler when Shenhe interpreted it as something worse.
Some thought Shenhe warned the Traveler. Icy glares followed. Internal threats from Shenhe likely simmered. It’s a classic clash of guardianship and mischief. The result? Hilarious moments.
The shipping community thrives here. Shenhe attracts attention for her beauty and depth. Popular pairings include Shenhe/Yelan. Fans call them “Shenlan.” Creative minds in Genshin unite for fun. They imagine romantic tales for beloved characters.
Let’s contrast Shenhe and Xiao. Both are strong, brooding figures. Yet their combat styles differ. Shenhe excels in support roles. She boosts ally damage and triggers elemental reactions. Xiao plays solo, inflicting heavy damage independently. For team players, Shenhe shines. For lone warriors, Xiao is your pick.
Cloud Retainer’s New Role: Meet Xianyun
Did you hear? Cloud Retainer is now playable! Her name is Xianyun. No longer just a wise presence in a teapot. Xianyun is a 5-Star Anemo Catalyst user. Her skills focus on plunging attacks. She enhances them for the entire team. This shifts the game style! Cloud Retainer, or Xianyun, steps beyond lore; she transforms battle.
So there you go. Shenhe and Cloud Retainer share a deep bond, steeped in Adepti wisdom. Their stories offer intrigue for Genshin fans for many years. From a cursed individual with white hair to a playable Adeptus crane-mom, Genshin continues to impress. And those red ropes? More than mere fashion statements.
