Snezhnaya – The Land of Frost and Ambition

Snezhnaya is a cold, northern nation defined by its icy landscapes, political power, and ambition. It is ruled indirectly by the Cryo Archon, the Tsaritsa, who is both enigmatic and powerful. The nation is home to the Fatui, a militaristic and politically influential organization that plays a major role in Teyvat’s global affairs. Snezhnaya is characterized by ambition, cunning, and a focus on influence, contrasting with the freedom of Mondstadt and the wisdom of Sumeru.

Snezhnaya is dominated by snowy tundras, icy mountains, and frozen coastlines:

  • Harbor Cities: Trade hubs where Fatui operations and diplomacy are concentrated.

  • Icy Tundras: Harsh, frozen lands inhabited by hardy locals and dangerous wildlife.

  • Mountains and Glaciers: Provide natural defenses and challenge adventurers with treacherous terrain.

  • Fatui Headquarters: Locations linked to the organization’s political and military activities, though many are hidden or secretive.

The region’s frozen beauty is both breathtaking and perilous, reflecting the harsh and ambitious nature of its people.

  • Snezhnaya’s society is shaped by hierarchy, strategy, and political ambition.

  • The nation’s citizens and nobles respect strength and influence, and the Fatui exerts significant control over domestic and international affairs.

  • Snezhnaya places importance on loyalty, resourcefulness, and resilience, often through indirect governance rather than open rule.

  • The Tsaritsa, though rarely seen by her people, is revered and feared, and her pursuit of “saving Teyvat” drives much of Snezhnaya’s actions.

Natlan – The Land of Fire and Passion

Natlan is a nation deeply tied to the Pyro element, characterized by volcanic landscapes, lush jungles, and warrior cultures. It is ruled by the Pyro Archon, who embodies war, courage, and strength, reflecting the nation’s fiery spirit. Natlan is known for its fierce independence, passionate people, and tribal traditions, making it a vibrant and untamed part of Teyvat.

Natlan’s geography is dramatic and diverse, shaped by fire and tropical climates:

  • Volcanic Mountains: Active volcanoes dominate the landscape, creating hot springs, lava flows, and dangerous terrain.

  • Lush Jungles: Dense forests and rivers provide habitats for wildlife, sacred sites, and hidden ruins.

  • Tribal Villages: Communities of warriors and hunters, preserving traditions and cultural rituals.

  • Pyro-themed Sites: Natural and mystical locations imbued with elemental fire energy, often tied to ancient legends and rituals.

Natlan is a dynamic and visually striking region, with a raw, natural beauty shaped by fire and heat.

  • Natlan’s society values strength, bravery, and passion, with people often living in harmony with nature while respecting warrior codes.

  • Fire symbolizes life, courage, and vitality, influencing daily customs, rituals, and festivals.

  • Tribal traditions are strong, including ritual dances, ceremonial battles, and elemental worship.

  • The people respect the Pyro Archon and follow their guidance in spiritual, social, and martial matters.

Fontaine – The Land of Justice and Innovation

Fontaine is a nation inspired by France and is heavily associated with Hydro, water, and the principles of law, justice, and technology. The region is ruled by Focalors (also called the Hydro Archon), who oversees the legal system and ensures that the nation maintains order, fairness, and progress. Fontaine is known for its advancements in machinery, judicial institutions, and maritime trade, making it one of Teyvat’s most technologically and culturally advanced nations.

Fontaine is largely coastal, with rivers, canals, and harbors shaping much of its landscape:

  • Fontaine City (Capital): A sprawling metropolis filled with courts, libraries, and research institutions. The city’s architecture reflects a blend of classical elegance and technological sophistication.

  • Industrial Districts: Areas powered by Hydro energy, including factories and water-driven machines.

  • Rivers and Canals: Fontaine’s waterways serve as transportation routes and hubs for commerce and trade.

  • Maritime Regions: Coastal and offshore areas support shipbuilding, fishing, and trade with other nations.

The region is urban-focused, with advanced engineering and Hydro-powered infrastructure, making it visually distinct from more natural or mountainous regions like Mondstadt or Liyue.

  • Fontaine’s society revolves around law, fairness, and accountability. Citizens value justice, and disputes are often resolved through formal legal systems.

  • The Hydro Archon is deeply involved in governance, influencing both the judiciary and technological development.

  • The nation has a reputation for innovation, particularly in machinery, elemental Hydro technology, and engineering.

  • Fontaine balances civil order with artistic and intellectual pursuits, including music, literature, and advanced scientific research

 

Sumeru – The Land of Wisdom

Sumeru is a vast and diverse nation in Teyvat, renowned for its pursuit of knowledge, learning, and wisdom. It is the center of scholarship, philosophy, and intellectual advancement, and is ruled by Nahida, the Dendro Archon. The region is deeply inspired by Middle Eastern, South Asian, and desert cultures, blending deserts, lush rainforests, and advanced academic institutions.

Sumeru is geographically diverse, divided mainly into rainforest and desert areas:

  • Sumeru City: The capital and intellectual hub, home to the Sumeru Academia, libraries, scholars, and research institutions.

  • Rainforest Region: Dense jungles with ancient ruins, hidden treasure, and unique flora.

  • Desert Region: Arid landscapes, nomadic settlements, and sand-swept ruins of ancient civilizations.

  • Kshahrewar Mountains: Rugged peaks surrounding the desert, hiding secrets and ancient relics.

  • Vanarana and Other Hidden Villages: Remote settlements of scholars, mystics, and sages.

Sumeru’s landscapes are vibrant and full of puzzles, elemental challenges, and lore-rich exploration opportunities.

  • Sumeru is famous for valuing wisdom above all, making it a hub for scholars, philosophers, and adventurers seeking knowledge.

  • The Sumeru Academia is the largest educational institution in Teyvat, offering research in science, alchemy, elemental magic, and philosophy.

  • Knowledge is seen as both a tool of power and a sacred duty, but access can be restricted, and politics sometimes influence academia.

  • The society values debate, critical thinking, and discovery, though tensions exist between traditional mystics (Adepti-like scholars) and modern scientists.