Among the many characters in Genshin Impact’s lore, few are as mysterious as Istaroth. Known as the Shade of Time, she has shaped the world since the earliest days of Teyvat. Her presence spans over Mondstadt, Inazuma, and Enkanomiya, yet her worship has faded from public memory.Her history and fragments of power intertwine with those of the Anemo Archon, Venti. In-game texts also suggest she may have other emanations, possibly manifesting as different figures across eras. Understanding Istaroth’s influence offers insight into the hidden connections between time, fate, and storytelling in Genshin Impact.Istaroth’s role in Genshin Impact loreIstaroth, also called Tokoyo Ookami and Kairos, is the Ruler of Time and one of the Four Shades created by the Heavenly Principles. She has been worshipped under many titles, including the God of Moments, the Thousand Winds of Time, and the Undying Wind. Her influence predates the Seven Archons, with followers in both Mondstadt and Enkanomiya.Istaroth in Teyvat Chapter Interlude Teaser The Gods' Limits (Image via HoYoverse)In the world’s earliest era, following the fall of the Seven Sovereigns, she played a role in shaping the new order. During Enkanomiya’s isolation, she remained the only divine figure to answer their prayers. Over time, her worship vanished, yet fragments of her legacy survive in phrases like “winds of time” and ancient temple carvings.Istaroth and Mondstadt’s history in Genshin ImpactBefore Venti became the Anemo Archon, he was a wandering Anemo spirit with no divine power. His fate changed after meeting Istaroth at the Thousand Winds Temple. Hearing his wishes, she granted him a fragment of her authority. This gift helped him grow stronger during the Archon War, eventually allowing him to lead the rebellion against Decarabian.Thousand Winds Temple in Mondstadt (Image via HoYoverse)In the early days of Barbatos’ rule, Mondstadt’s major clans worshipped both Istaroth and the Anemo Archon. Their rituals took place at a clifftop facing the eastern sea, possibly the Thousand Winds Temple itself. However, historical suppression by the Lawrence Clan erased much of her presence from public knowledge. Over time, most Mondstadters believed Barbatos to be their only deity.Traces of Istaroth’s presenceIn Inazuma, Ei speculated that Istaroth had a hand in the Sacred Sakura’s planting. This act may have involved time manipulation, a hallmark of her domain. Yae Miko implied that these happenings were linked to destiny and fate, highlighting Istaroth’s hand in pivotal historical events.Dainichi Mikoshi in Enkanomiya (Image via HoYoverse)Enkanomiya preserved her worship longer than anywhere else. Known there as Tokoyo Ookami, she was honored through ceremonies and symbols, such as the Light Realm Sigils. She imparted to Aberaku the knowledge needed to construct the Dainichi Mikoshi, restoring the cycle of day and night to the submerged realm. To her followers, she represented the undying wind, a force that endured even in darkness.Istaroth and Venti's connection in Genshin ImpactIstaroth and Venti share thematic and symbolic ties. Both are linked to wind, stories, and the passage of time. While Venti is associated with carrying tales, Istaroth is seen as the one who nurtures and shapes them. Their early connection, through the fragment of power she gave him, suggests he may be one of her chosen agents or emanations in Teyvat.Interestingly, they also share the same voice actors in all languages, hinting at an intentional parallel. This connection could suggest a more significant narrative role for Venti as a potential extension or partner of Istaroth’s will.Other possible emanations of Istaroth in Genshin Impact The emanations of Istaroth, her fall, and the waiting for her return. by u/Polstead in Genshin_Lore Many player theories believe that the book “Springs of Hidden Jade” introduces a golden-eyed girl who may be tied to Istaroth. Legends portray her as the daughter of time, a messenger from the ocean’s depths, and a being regarded as both mother and child. Mythological parallels link her to moon goddesses, solar chariots, and water spirits.These descriptions align with Istaroth’s domain over time and her possible ability to manifest through different forms or “emanations.” The Moon Sisters of Teyvat’s ancient myths, named Aria, Sonnet, and Canon, may also be part of this pattern. All share connections to storytelling, song, and celestial cycles, which are all elements tied to Istaroth’s legacy in Genshin Impact.When will we see Istaroth in Genshin Impact?Several quests and lore entries suggest Istaroth’s return may be inevitable. The creation of the Sacred Sakura, the imagery of time’s threads, and her lasting presence in forgotten parts of Teyvat hint at a destiny yet to unfold.Sacred Sakura in Inazuma (Image via HoYoverse)Phrases like “an ancient tale comes whisked in the wind” hint at her cyclical nature, with stories returning to life across ages. If her emanations still walk the world, Istaroth may already be present in hidden forms, waiting for the right moment to act.Istaroth remains one of Genshin Impact’s most influential yet forgotten figures. From granting Venti his earliest powers to guiding the people of Enkanomiya, her hand can be seen in events that shaped nations. Whether as the Shade of Time, the thousand winds, or through her possible avatars, Istaroth’s legacy continues to weave through Genshin Impact’s story.