Unraveling the Contract: How Zhongli Lost His Gnosis in Genshin Impact
Zhongli, the Geo Archon also known as Rex Lapis or Morax, relinquished his Gnosis through a meticulously planned contract with the Tsaritsa of Snezhnaya, facilitated by the Fatui and its Harbinger, Signora. This wasn’t a loss in battle or a forced surrender, but a deliberate act designed to test Liyue’s independence and transition it into an era where humans managed their own affairs without divine intervention. It was a move steeped in symbolism, reflecting Zhongli’s deep understanding of contracts and his ultimate faith in humanity.
The Contract to End All Contracts
The Foundation: Millennia of Guidance
For millennia, Rex Lapis had guided Liyue, shaping its culture, economy, and defenses. He was a powerful, revered figure whose strength was undeniable. However, he also recognized the potential for stagnation that came with absolute reliance on a single, immortal being. Liyue, despite its prosperity, was ultimately dependent on his wisdom and power. Zhongli believed that true progress could only be achieved through independence and self-reliance.
The Catalyst: A Desire for Independence
Zhongli’s desire to step down stemmed from a deep-seated belief in the potential of humanity. He felt that Liyue needed to prove its ability to thrive without his direct intervention. He sought a way to gracefully transition Liyue into an era of human rule, fostering self-sufficiency and growth. This was a complex and risky endeavor, requiring careful planning and a willingness to relinquish his own power.
The Negotiation: The Tsaritsa’s Offer
The Tsaritsa, the Cryo Archon of Snezhnaya, sought to collect all the Gnosis’ from the other Archons, presumably for a grander purpose that remains shrouded in mystery. She dispatched her Harbinger, Signora, to secure the Geo Gnosis. Instead of resorting to force (though she certainly was prepared to), Signora offered Zhongli a contract. This contract, as Zhongli described, was “the contract to end all contracts.”
The Terms: A Calculated Exchange
The terms of the contract were simple, yet profound: In exchange for his Gnosis, the Tsaritsa would ensure that no contracts bound Zhongli any longer, freeing him from his duties as the Geo Archon. This allowed him to step down without causing chaos or breaking his existing commitments. The “fake death” of Rex Lapis served as a catalyst to test Liyue’s response to a crisis without its god.
The Execution: Signora’s Acquisition
After meticulously planning the events surrounding Rex Lapis’s supposed assassination, Zhongli arranged for Signora to retrieve the Gnosis. The elaborate “Rite of Descension” was orchestrated to solidify the narrative of his death, further convincing the citizens of Liyue that they were now on their own. Signora appeared to claim the Gnosis, fulfilling her end of the bargain and marking the end of Zhongli’s direct rule.
The Aftermath: Liyue’s Independence
A Test of Resilience
The “death” of Rex Lapis served as a trial for Liyue. The Liyue Qixing, the governing body, were forced to step up and lead the nation through a period of uncertainty. The Traveler’s intervention also played a crucial role in proving Liyue’s ability to face external threats without divine assistance.
A New Era for Liyue
With Zhongli free from his Archon duties and the Liyue Qixing taking the reins, Liyue entered a new era. The nation began to embrace its independence, fostering innovation and self-reliance. The people of Liyue proved capable of navigating challenges and shaping their own destiny.
The Bigger Picture: The Tsaritsa’s Agenda
Zhongli’s decision to relinquish his Gnosis is not an isolated event but part of a larger narrative involving the Tsaritsa and her quest to gather all seven Gnosis’. The true nature of her plan remains a mystery, but it’s clear that it poses a significant threat to Teyvat. Understanding Zhongli’s motivations and the consequences of his actions is crucial to understanding the overarching storyline of Genshin Impact. As educators explore the world of Genshin Impact, they can use resources from the Games Learning Society to analyze the narrative, characters, and world-building aspects. Educators and researchers can find more about GamesLearningSociety.org and their mission on their website.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why did Zhongli want to give up his Gnosis?
Zhongli believed Liyue had become overly reliant on him. He sought to foster independence and self-sufficiency by stepping down as Archon and allowing humans to govern themselves. He felt they could only grow if they were forced to.
2. Did Zhongli regret giving up his Gnosis?
There’s no explicit indication that Zhongli regrets his decision. He orchestrated the entire event with meticulous planning, suggesting he believed it was the right course of action for Liyue’s future.
3. Was Zhongli forced to give up his Gnosis?
No, Zhongli willingly relinquished his Gnosis as part of a contract with the Tsaritsa. It was a carefully considered decision, not a forced surrender.
4. Did Zhongli lose his powers after giving up his Gnosis?
While the Gnosis was a source of considerable power, Zhongli retained significant abilities even after relinquishing it. He continues to demonstrate his elemental prowess and mastery of Geo.
5. What chess piece did Zhongli’s Gnosis resemble?
Zhongli’s Gnosis is modeled after the Rook chess piece.
6. Why did the Tsaritsa want the Gnosis?
The Tsaritsa’s motives remain a central mystery in Genshin Impact’s storyline. She seeks to collect all seven Gnosis’, suggesting a grand plan to challenge Celestia, the realm of the gods.
7. How did Signora obtain Zhongli’s Gnosis?
Signora obtained the Gnosis by fulfilling her end of the contract with Zhongli. She presented the agreed-upon compensation, allowing her to claim the Gnosis as per their arrangement.
8. Did Venti try to warn Zhongli about the Tsaritsa?
There is no indication that Venti explicitly warned Zhongli. Each Archon had their own reasons for their decisions, and Venti’s laid-back approach might have led him to believe Zhongli had everything under control.
9. How did the people of Liyue react to Rex Lapis’s death?
The people of Liyue were initially shocked and saddened by Rex Lapis’s supposed death. However, they eventually rallied together, showcasing their resilience and ability to adapt to the new circumstances.
10. Who is the Hydro Archon of Fontaine?
The current Hydro Archon of Fontaine is Furina, also known as Focalors.
11. What is the significance of the “Contract to End All Contracts”?
The “Contract to End All Contracts” symbolizes Zhongli’s desire to break free from his Archon duties and allow Liyue to govern itself. It signifies a transition from divine rule to human leadership.
12. Is Zhongli hiding anything about the contract with the Tsaritsa?
It is possible that Zhongli holds back certain details of the contract, perhaps to protect Liyue or to further his own objectives. The full extent of the agreement remains somewhat ambiguous.
13. How has Liyue changed since Zhongli stepped down?
Liyue has become more independent and self-reliant since Zhongli stepped down. The Liyue Qixing have taken a more prominent role in governance, and the nation has embraced innovation and economic growth.
14. What role does the Traveler play in Liyue’s transition?
The Traveler’s intervention in Liyue’s affairs, particularly during the crisis following Rex Lapis’s “death,” helped demonstrate Liyue’s ability to face external threats without divine intervention. The Traveler acted as a catalyst, aiding Liyue in its journey toward independence.
15. Will Zhongli eventually reveal his true intentions regarding the Gnosis?
The ongoing storyline of Genshin Impact suggests that Zhongli’s motivations and the true nature of his contract with the Tsaritsa will be further explored in future updates. The secrets surrounding the Gnosis and the Tsaritsa’s plans are likely to be gradually revealed as the game progresses.