Zhiqiong is one of the most intriguing non-playable characters (NPCs) in Genshin Impact, particularly known for her involvement in the exploration of The Chasm. As a dedicated member of the Adventurers’ Guild, she plays a crucial role in uncovering some of Liyue’s deepest secrets and pushing the boundaries of knowledge about the Underground Mines. Although she is not a playable character, her presence in the storyline leaves a lasting impact, especially through her involvement in important quest chains. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into Zhiqiong’s background, her crucial role in The Chasm, her personality and relationships, and the mysteries surrounding her disappearance.
Zhiqiong – Background and Affiliation
Zhiqiong is a human female NPC from the nation of Liyue, affiliated with the Adventurers’ Guild. She actively participates in an expedition known as the Chasm Exploration Team, where she serves as the official map maker. Her role is integral, as she is responsible for charting and documenting the dangerous Underground Mines of The Chasm, an area laden with mysteries and hidden dangers.
Her adventurous spirit and strong resolve make her one of the boldest characters involved in The Chasm’s investigations. Unlike many of her peers, Zhiqiong possesses an insatiable curiosity that compels her to venture into riskier and uncharted territories.
Zhiqiong – Role in Quests
Zhiqiong plays a key role in two significant quest chain events in Genshin Impact: The Chasm Delvers and the Valor’s Afterglow quest lines. These quests center around the exploration of the Underground Mines and ultimately lead to her puzzling disappearance.
The Chasm Delvers Quest Chain
In The Chasm Delvers quest line, Zhiqiong acts as one of the main guides for the Traveler, inviting them to explore and unlock the mysteries of the Underground Mines. She often takes the initiative in venturing into perilous locations and encourages the adventurers to do the same.
Throughout this quest, players witness her fearless nature, as she continuously takes risks to further uncover the unknown. Despite warnings from her peers, she remains determined to push forward, leading to a growing tension between herself and other members of the expedition team.
Valor’s Afterglow Quest Chain
In its direct sequel, Valor’s Afterglow, Zhiqiong is tasked with setting up beacons in The Chasm, further solidifying her dedication to exploration. This quest chain marks her final moments in the game, as her story takes a mysterious turn.
By the end of Valor’s Afterglow, Zhiqiong leaves behind a final letter detailing her discovery of a deeper and unknown path within the mines. However, the Traveler is unable to locate this path, sparking speculation about her fate and what she may have uncovered.
Zhiqiong – Personality and Traits
Zhiqiong exhibits a strong and determined personality, often putting her sense of adventure above personal safety. She is deeply motivated by the fear of being forgotten and hopes that her contributions to The Chasm’s exploration will solidify her legacy.
Her strong-willed approach to exploration sometimes puts her at odds with her colleagues. While her fellow team members, such as Jinwu, express concerns for her well-being, Zhiqiong remains steadfast in her ambitions. Her dynamic with the Traveler also reflects this quality, as she constantly pushes them to investigate deeper layers of The Chasm.
Zhiqiong – Interactions and Relationships
Zhiqiong builds notable relationships with other members of the Chasm Exploration Team. She gets along with Jinwu, who is responsible for the safety and maintenance of the equipment used in the Underground Mines. However, her relationship with Clitopho is more complicated.
Unlike Zhiqiong, Clitopho has a different approach to adventures, and their differing ideologies often lead to clashes. While Clitopho is seen as opportunistic, Zhiqiong remains committed to the pursuit of understanding and discovery.
Zhiqiong – Disappearance and Speculations
One of the biggest unanswered questions in Genshin Impact revolves around Zhiqiong’s disappearance. After the conclusion of the Valor’s Afterglow quest chain, she is nowhere to be found, with only a letter left behind. The letter speaks of a deeper undiscovered path within the mines, yet no one, not even the Traveler, is able to find it.
This has led to several fan theories regarding her fate:
- Trapped in The Chasm – Some speculate that Zhiqiong ventured too far and became trapped, unable to return.
- Discovered a Hidden Realm – Others believe she may have uncovered a hidden truth, leading to her current absence.
- Kidnapped or Taken by a Greater Force – Given The Chasm’s connections to Khaenri’ah and other unknown forces, some theorize that Zhiqiong may have encountered something beyond mortal comprehension.
Despite her disappearance, players hope that future updates will shed light on her whereabouts and whether she will make a return to the game.
How to Complete Zhiqiong’s Quests
For players looking to fully experience Zhiqiong’s story, they must complete the following:
Step 1: Start The Chasm Delvers Quest
To begin, players need to unlock and initiate The Chasm Delvers quest chain, which involves assisting the Chasm Exploration Team in their research endeavors.
Step 2: Follow Zhiqiong’s Guidance
During the quest, players will frequently interact with Zhiqiong as she provides guidance on the ongoing investigation and exploration of The Chasm.
Step 3: Complete Valor’s Afterglow
The final quest series requires finishing Valor’s Afterglow, where Zhiqiong plays her last role before disappearing. Pay close attention to her final message left for the Traveler.
Frequently Asked Questions About Zhiqiong
Who is Zhiqiong in Genshin Impact?
Zhiqiong is an NPC from Liyue who serves as a map maker for the Chasm Exploration Team. She plays a major role in The Chasm Delvers and Valor’s Afterglow quest chains.
What is Zhiqiong’s role in The Chasm Delvers?
She invites the Traveler to join the Chasm Exploration Team and provides guidance in uncovering the mysteries of The Chasm’s Underground Mines.
What happens to Zhiqiong at the end of Valor’s Afterglow?
She disappears after leaving a letter hinting at a deeper path within the mines that has yet to be discovered.
Is Zhiqiong a playable character?
No, Zhiqiong is an NPC and is not currently available as a playable character.
Will Zhiqiong return in future updates?
There is no official confirmation, but her unresolved fate leaves room for potential future appearances.
Why is Zhiqiong’s disappearance significant?
Her fate remains a major mystery and might be tied to larger story developments within Genshin Impact.
Who are Zhiqiong’s allies?
She works closely with Jinwu but shares a complicated relationship with Clitopho.
What motivates Zhiqiong to take risks?
She has a strong desire to be remembered and to push the boundaries of exploration, which often leads her into dangerous territory.
What is the significance of her final letter?
The letter hints at an unknown path that the Traveler cannot find, fueling speculation about what she may have uncovered.
Can players find Zhiqiong after completing the quest?
No, after Valor’s Afterglow, Zhiqiong is not seen again in the game.
Conclusion
Zhiqiong is a fascinating character whose contributions to The Chasm’s story highlight the dangers and rewards of unyielding curiosity. While her fate remains uncertain, her legacy as a relentless explorer lingers in the game’s lore, prompting speculation and anticipation for future updates. Whether or not she returns, Zhiqiong’s journey in Genshin Impact remains one of the most enigmatic and thought-provoking narratives in Liyue’s history.
Source: ZaFrostPet
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