[Zhongli listens quietly as Dan Heng talks a little about memories and rebirth. To be washed and born anew every cycle... it's not unlike how Zhongli was, when he came into this world. But the memories came back. And they came for Azhdaha too... for a time. One of his worries is that of Azhdaha being reincarnated again and again, only to remember and then forget, suffering eternally until the end of this planet.

... No, he wouldn't wish that on anyone. And that's why he's looking for a different path than the Black Order would have taken.]

... Thank you for your words.

[He lets out a soft sigh, and for a moment, he looks tired enough to be a few thousand years old.]

The cost of staying is far too great. No... it is better to say that I would pay any price to see Azhdaha freed. But it isn't as simple as letting him walk out the door. He must be rescued, and then he will be awake... and then his fate must be decided.

[He looks at Dan Heng.]

If I proceed with this plan, it will be as if I never existed. The Black Order will not look for me. You will remember, of course, but my place on your family tree will be lost to time.

... That is what I must give if I am to help the others.