Guizhong: The Forgotten God of Dust in Genshin Impact

In the vast world of Genshin Impact, few characters have left such a profound legacy while remaining shrouded in mystery as Guizhong, the God of Dust. As we look back in 2025, this enigmatic deity continues to captivate players' imagination despite never appearing in-game as a playable character.

Known by her Goetic name Haagentus, Guizhong was one of the divine rulers of the Guili Assembly in Liyue, which she established alongside Morax (now known as Zhongli) and Marchosius. Her story represents one of the most bittersweet tales in Genshin Impact's rich lore.

The Brilliant Mind Behind the Dust

Guizhong wasn't your average deity. Unlike the mighty Morax with his overwhelming strength, she was characterized by her exceptional wisdom and intellect. She took the form of a young woman with billowing sleeves, long flowing gray hair that faded into cerulean-blue, and a face full of expression – particularly joy – which stood in stark contrast to the more rigid demeanor of adepti like Cloud Retainer.

"She was wicked smart, like Einstein-level brilliant," as many American Genshin Impact enthusiasts would say. Her intellect wasn't just for show either – she was a mechanical genius who created the Guizhong Ballista, designed the Cleansing Bell, and even collected ancient Khaenri'ah technology like Ruin Machines for her research.

The Guili Assembly: A Civilization Built on Wisdom

The name "Guili" itself is a portmanteau of Guizhong and the character Morax used in his name at that time. Together with Marchosius, they established a prosperous civilization north of Mt. Tianheng.

Guizhong's leadership was defined by her Four Commandments:

• "Teach with wisdom, be bound by virtue, fortify the bones, unite in ambition"

She taught agriculture to her people, dramatically expanding their influence. Under her guidance, humans weren't seen as merely "small and fragile as dust" but beings with tremendous potential.

A Bond Beyond Contracts

What makes Guizhong's story truly special in Genshin Impact is her relationship with Morax. Unlike the formal contracts that Morax/Zhongli is known for, their bond was more personal. They first met in a field of Glaze Lilies, where she presented him with a stone dumbbell now known as the Memory of Dust as a mark of their pledge.

"Their relationship was a total vibe," as contemporary Genshin players might put it. Together they complemented each other perfectly – her wisdom and his strength creating a formidable partnership that benefited all of Liyue.

The Tragic End During the Archon War

Unfortunately, like many gods during the brutal Archon War, Guizhong's story ended in tragedy. She perished in a fierce battle that devastated the Guili Plains, with "black dust choking the heavens and a thousand rocks splintering."

Her death scene is particularly poignant – dying amidst her beloved Glaze Lilies, wearing one last lonely smile as she asked Morax to forget about the stone dumbbell she gave him, lamenting the end of their journey together.

Legacy That Endures

Despite her physical absence, Guizhong's influence remains strong in Genshin Impact's world:

1. The Memory of Dust catalyst serves as a tangible reminder of her bond with Morax

2. Glaze Lilies, her favorite flowers, play a key role in the Rite of Parting

3. The Guizhong Ballista still stands at Tianheng Pass

4. Her mechanical genius inspired future generations

Why Fans Connect With Guizhong

Even in 2025, years after Genshin Impact's launch, the community's fascination with Guizhong hasn't dimmed. Fan art, theories, and discussions about her continue to flourish online.

Part of this enduring appeal is the bittersweet nature of her story and how it humanizes Zhongli. In a game where gods often seem distant and all-powerful, Guizhong represents a more vulnerable side of divinity – brilliant but not invincible, wise yet ultimately mortal.

As one popular American Genshin streamer put it: "Guizhong hits different. She's the one that got away – not just for Zhongli, but for all of us players who'll never get to meet her in-game."

Whether HoYoverse will ever explore more of Guizhong's story through flashbacks or special events remains to be seen. But one thing is certain – the God of Dust may have returned to the elements, but her legacy in Genshin Impact continues to shine brightly, much like the Glaze Lilies she so adored.

For those exploring Liyue, take a moment to visit the ruins of the Guili Assembly or gather some Glaze Lilies in remembrance of this remarkable deity whose wisdom helped shape the nation we know today.