Genshin Lauma: Priestess of the Moon Goddess
After discussing Ineffa's story in the previous article, I believe Travelers have gained a deeper understanding of the new version.
In the Nod-Krai preview PV, the developers primarily showcased the scenery of Hiisi Island, the gathering place of the "Frostmoon Scions"-one of Nod-Krai's core factions-and previewed a new character from this faction - "Lauma, Priestess of the Moon Goddess."
Lauma Meaning
The name "Lauma" is derived from the woodland spirit "Lauma" in Eastern Baltic mythology (referring to the ancient belief systems of peoples in modern-day Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, and surrounding regions). According to legend, the fairy Lauma is the guardian of orphans. Originally a celestial deity, she descended to the mortal world out of compassion for human suffering and chose to share humanity's fate.
Frostmoon Scions Spirit Deer
The PV shows another priestess summoning Lauma for a meeting. The spirit deer is the representative animal of the Frostmoon Scions cult, a fact we already knew when the faction poster was revealed (because the deer symbolizes vitality, and the Frostmoon Scions' design draws from the "Druid" faith in Celtic culture, which is renowned for worshiping natural and life forces).
This PV not only depicts the spirit deer acting as messengers delivering messages among the Frostmoon Scions but also shows Lauma merging with the spirit deer, moving in a half-deer spirit form to ride and move. It remains unclear whether this is Lauma's unique ability or a special travel method shared by all Frostmoon Scions.
"Druidism" is a sect within the Celtic mythological system, and its priests are called "Druids" (Druid, meaning "Oak Sage"). The Druidic sect worships nature, viewing celestial bodies-such as the sun, moon, and stars-as deities. A key sacred ritual involves cutting mistletoe, regarded as a panacea.
The ceremony is held on days tied to the lunar phases, chosen during the full moon, new moon, or the sixth night of a month. The golden sickle used in the ritual mimics the crescent moon's shape, symbolizing the "All-Encompassing Holy Moon that holds the seeds of all things" in Druidism. These elements correspond to the Frostmoon Scions' worship of the Moon Goddess.
The PV footage also shows two unnamed local creatures on Hiisi Island.
After meeting the other priestess, she performed a unique hand gesture toward Lauma-likely a special greeting ritual within the Frostmoon Scions cult (no reference prototype for this etiquette has been identified yet). The PV concluded with Lauma smiling in acknowledgment.
The entire short film, from visuals to music, delivers an ethereal and breathtakingly beautiful experience. The dreamlike scenery of Hiisi Island makes it not only a sacred site for the Frostmoon Scions but also a future hotspot for Genshin Impact photography.
Hiisi Island
The term "Hiisi" in "Hiisi Island" originates from Finnish mythology, initially denoting "sacred places" and later referring to mythological entities like forest spirits, embodying reverence for nature. However, with the spread of Christianity in Finland, the original concept of Hiisi was stigmatized, gradually transforming into purely evil spirits depicted as pagan trolls haunting wilderness areas.
Finally, here is a brief summary of the known background of the Frostmoon Scions faction. They are the last descendants of the legendary lost nation of the "Golden City," Hyperborea. After their ancient civilization was struck down and destroyed by Celestia, the survivors of the Golden City abandoned everything and chose to live in seclusion in remote mountains. Yet, they never forgot their faith in the "Moon Goddess." They also possess a mysterious ancient moon-based ability, which is seen by the world as "magic" and differs from elemental powers.
The history of the Golden City is tied to a suspected Third Descendant-an extraterrestrial traveler-and the first angel. This story is recorded in the artifact "Finale of the Deep Galleries."
Long ago, a highly advanced traveler from beyond the stars, who had once made a pact with Nibelung, returned to Teyvat-now dominated and reshaped by Phanes. Descending into the body of a northern youth, he moved the first angel with love; the two fell in love and united. Together, they raised the banner of rebellion against the Heavenly Principles in the Golden City; yet, with the descent of the Sky Nail, they suffered a devastating defeat. The entire angelic race was subjected to the wrathful and brutal punishment of the heavens. The once-majestic and noble race gradually devolved into the mindless Seelies now scattered across the continent.
Legend says that the people of the Golden City obtained the power of creation-originally governed by Celestia-from an Archangel. Craftsmen of the city-state used the remains of a giant beast (likely a dragon's skeleton) as a foundation, weaving the light of the Frostmoon into flawless flesh to create countless spirits. This should mark the beginning of the Golden City's people's worship of the Moon Goddess.
That's all the information about the new character Lauma. Have you learned more about Nord-Kraj from her background details? Do you like this new character? Don't forget to stay tuned for our articles and fun in-site merchandise!