The adepti were also somewhat puzzled.
Since the Geo Archon had not passed away, where exactly was he, and why was there a body of his in the Golden House?
"I already had my suspicions about this when the youngsters came to borrow the Cleansing Bell from me."
Madame Ping thought for a moment before speaking.
"A Ping, stop speaking in riddles. Just tell us what you have in mind!" Cloud Retainer said irritably.
"Hehe, don't be impatient, Cloud Retainer." Standing in midair, Madame Ping smiled and said, "Only those of you here knew that the Cleansing Bell was in my possession. Since none of you told the youngsters, it could only have been the Geo Archon."
"According to what this adeptus says, that Mr. Zhongli who is presiding over the Rite of Parting..."
Ningguang's crimson eyes widened slightly.
"Since he has chosen to become a mortal and live hidden among the people, we should disturb him less."
Madame Ping shook her head, then continued:
"In arranging all this, the Geo Archon may well have intended for us to let go. As guides, we have protected and guided all of Liyue for thousands of years. It is time to leave you to walk this path yourselves."
She turned her gaze toward Ningguang and Keqing, the members of the Liyue Qixing.
"But even so, there was no need to fake his death in front of everyone..."
Keqing was somewhat puzzled.
"Only when the Geo Archon is 'dead' will the people of Liyue stop relying on him whenever they encounter difficulties. So do not reveal that he is still here."
Feeling that she had explained enough, Madame Ping offered those final words.
"Hmph, that man is always impossible to fathom. In a few days, I shall certainly seek him out and give