[ The notion of differed perceptions isn't strange to him; only that he intentionally dictates how others see him, both to impress his divinity and also to conceal it when necessary. ]

Your theory seems sound to me. You are close to many people's hearts.

[ Perhaps it too is a test of the mortal's purity of heart, though he doubts that Ahmi would turn away those who were not devout to the divine. Liyue also had its fair share of impious individuals who were nevertheless treading the same path as Rex Lapis did; for the betterment of their nation.

He places his left hand behind his back and his right arm poised in a thoughtful gesture; a quirk that many who know him are now accustomed to seeing ]

I take on my current appearance as a form of retirement from my duties.

[ As much as he is dutiful, there was still a limit to what he could tolerate without rest. Six thousand years is long enough. ]