Genshin Impact’s newest animation unveils the story behind Arlecchino’s title, “Father.”
Since its 2020 launch, Genshin Impact by HoYoverse has captivated the world with its expansive anime-style open world and dynamic elemental magic combat system. The game continues to evolve, introducing players to new characters and deepening its lore with every update.
The animated short “The Song Burning in the Embers” has recently illuminated Arlecchino‘s dark and poignant backstory, revealing why she is referred to as “Father” by those under her care.
The animation introduces us to a young Arlecchino, whose real name is Peruere, under the harsh tutelage of “Mother” in the House of the Hearth. Here, orphans are groomed through brutal competition to become formidable warriors, aiming to emerge as the singular “King” by defeating their peers.
As they grow into their teenage years, the fatal trials dictated by “Mother” begin. In a devastating turn, Arlecchino is forced into a tragic confrontation with Clervie, who, fatally wounded, leaves Arlecchino with a heartrending farewell, “You will be… a great ‘King.’ I’m sorry… …Thank you,” before succumbing to her injuries.
Consumed by grief and anger after her friend Clervie dies in her hands, Arlecchino confronts “Mother,” who coldly dismisses the innocence and kindness of the children as weaknesses. Arlecchino defies “Mother’s” cruel philosophy in a climactic battle and emerges victorious, ending the tyrannical reign over the House of the Hearth.
Arlecchino’s actions catch the attention of the Tsaritsa of Snezhnaya, who pardons her crimes and anoints her as the new Harbinger, bestowing upon her the legacy and the burdens of “Mother” and being called the cursed “Knave.”
Determined to redefine this role, Arlecchino chooses the title of “Father,” symbolizing a new era of leadership. She vows to be the mentor she never had—strict yet fair, protective yet challenging—beginning this commitment by taking in a young orphan named Freminet.
In a stark contrast depicted in the animation, Arlecchino rejects the manipulative tactics of the former “Mother,” who used affection as a facade for cruelty.
One chilling quote from the previous Knave: “A bird tied down will never fly the nest. You are no exception. Let your ‘Mother’ guide you, and you shall become the one true ‘King’!” exemplifies the twisted philosophy Arlecchino strives to leave behind, which is why she chooses to be “Father.”
Arlecchino adopts the title of “Father,” aiming to embody a figure who is both strict and unfeeling, honest in her toughness, and genuinely invested in the welfare and strength of her charges, without the deceitful tenderness of her predecessor.
Arlecchino’s evolution from a pawn in a cruel game to a “Father” seeking to protect and uplift symbolizes her profound growth and a clear break from the manipulative “Mother.”