[Zhongli's not trying to break out of the hug. If anything, he lets himself relax into it a bit more, and rests his chin on Dan Heng's shoulder.]

I have the knowledge to prove it, but they would not believe my birth year for a moment.

[The humor is appreciated. It's just enough to stave off that sadness a little longer. Maybe when he's alone with Venti he'll let himself crumble at the edges.]

I'll be here for you as well, though I am beginning to think that you need me less and less as the years wear on.