The Bountiful Lands Of Liyue's Chenyu Vale (Genshin Theory And Speculation)

Welcome, dear readers, to a voyage through the mystical world of Genshin Impact. Today, we embark on an exhilarating journey as we explore the intriguing land of Shenul Vil, located in the northwestern region of Liyue. We've covered this area in a few previous videos, but with its likely release on the horizon, we couldn't resist delving into the enigmatic tales and captivating speculations surrounding this mystical realm. So, without further ado, let's dive into the captivating lore, the unique geography, and the fascinating possibilities that await us in Shenul Vil.

Unveiling the Tapestry of Lore

Before we plunge into the uncharted territories of Shenul Vil, let's first unravel the threads of its lore. Our journey begins with the echoes of an offering artifact set, the legendary sacrificial Jade, and the mesmerizing Jade Fall Splendor story quest, among other sources. Here, we unearth tales of the Herbl Lord, an adeptus of unparalleled wisdom, who once dwelled atop Mount Yao Jun in Shenul Vil.

The Herbl Lord shared her mountain abode with an enigmatic friend, whose name remains shrouded in mystery. However, the real intrigue lies in the story of a tree, nurtured by this friend, whose branches would later be extended across a river by mortals fleeing the chasms of southern Liyue. These wanderers sought refuge in Shenul Vil, their exodus possibly coinciding with the tumultuous Archon War era. A critical revelation here is that Rex Lapis, the divine protector of Liyue, wasn't the original deity of Shenul Vil. The enigma surrounding this forgotten god is tinged with intrigue, as rumors suggest their demise on foreign shores, ultimately paving the way for Rex Lapis to assume control of the region.

Shenul Vil boasts its own unique culture, manifested through the growth of rare tea trees. These tea trees, flourishing in the region's soil, are said to harbor the memories of an age-old promise made beside a cherished tea sapling. This tantalizing reference likely harkens back to the Herbl Lord, her mysterious friend, and the tree that bound their destinies.

Tea, however, is just one facet of Shenul Vil's rich heritage. The region is renowned for its coveted blue-green jade known as Yong Jade. This precious stone was once part of a grand jade altar transported by Shenul Vil's ancestors from the chasms. Yet, their possession of this mystical jade provoked the envy of demons seeking its power to summon sweet rains. In response, the Herbl Lord took decisive action, casting the jade into a river or crafting it into ornate trinkets, which she hid away. Thus, a tradition was born in Shenul Vil, where the people continue to make jade offerings, crafting these exquisite ornaments, resembling symbols of felicitation, as a tribute to their enigmatic past.

But our journey into Shenul Vil's lore doesn't end there. There's one more piece to this captivating puzzle: Chang Shong. Hailing from Shenul Vil, she was once spotted seated beneath a tree atop Mount Yao Jun. This raises questions about her possible connection with the Herbl Lord, a connection waiting to be unveiled.

The Mystical Geography of Shenul Vil

Now, as we stand on the precipice of discovery, it's essential to understand where Shenul Vil lies in the grand tapestry of Genshin Impact's vast world. This fabled land is nestled in the northwestern reaches of Liyue, bordering the regions of Fontaine and Sumeru. It fills the void on the in-game map, teasing a connection with the elusive Baal Harbor in Sumeru. The prospect of these two regions releasing together to complete the map is an exciting notion, indeed.

Shenul Vil's geography is nothing short of breathtaking, featuring majestic mountains and winding rivers. Mount Yao Jun, the very mountain where the Herbl Lord once held her dominion, graces this mystical land. Shenul Vil is known for its humidity, a stark contrast to the arid terrain of Baram. This unique climate, coupled with the region's mystical aura, promises a picturesque and surreal environment.

Within Shenul Vil, human settlements dot the landscape, each with its own unique charm. The quaint Chiang Village, famed for its diverse tea varieties, thrives amidst the verdant hills. From Tian Hung Boha to Ching Floral Tea, this village is a haven for tea enthusiasts. Chiang Village even hosts an annual tea-serving ceremony, using wilted petals from spirits and flowers to prepare their floral tea, and even a delightful Yalon specialty dish called "Do Dip Shrimp" that incorporates the freshly dipped tea from the village.

For those keen to explore this enchanting realm, one can't help but wonder if the village featured in Baiju's story quest cutscene might, in fact, be Chiang Village. If so, we can anticipate a serene and idyllic town nestled amid mountains and waterfalls, replete with lush tea trees and terraced farms. This village might be situated at the very base of Mount Yao Jun, creating a picturesque tableau of serenity.

Another settlement in Shenul Vil is Yong Port, situated across the water from the yet-to-be-revealed Lumos Harbor in Fontaine. It is a place where the people of Shenul Vil gather to worship their ancestors and pay homage to the departed. This port is also where skilled artisans craft exquisite jade ornaments, likely hewn from the coveted Yong Jade. Shenul Vil, it seems, is a realm steeped in rich traditions and the mystique of its ancient past.

Speculations and Exciting Possibilities

As we eagerly await the release of Shenul Vil, our imaginations run wild with the possibilities of new stories and adventures that might unfurl in this captivating land. With the potential for a release in version 4.4, the Lantern Rite festival could serve as the perfect backdrop for the grand introduction of this new region. Picture the lanterns illuminating Shenul Vil's landscapes as they welcome characters like Baiju, Chong, and perhaps even new faces. The festival's grandeur could take on new dimensions as we witness the diverse motivations that draw these characters to the heart of Shenul Vil.

One tantalizing prospect is a second act in Baiju's story quest, delving deep into her past and her mysterious connection with Chong. Shenul Vil, as her homeland, provides the ideal stage for this captivating narrative to unfold. This journey could unearth secrets and forge new bonds, breathing life into the lore of this mystical realm.

Another storyline waiting to be unveiled is the enigmatic tale of the Herbl Lord and the enormous slab of Yong Jade. In Genshin Impact, new locations often come with their own set of world quests. Shenul Vil is unlikely to be an exception. We might embark on a journey to unearth the long-lost history of the deity who once presided over this realm before Rex Lapis took the reins. Alternatively, during the Lantern Rite event, Zhongli might regale us with tales of his past, adding layers of depth to the region's history.

Lastly, let's not forget the intriguing figure of Xiwang, the chasm delver who once mapped the terrain of Chiang Village. Her adventures could become the focus