[ Zhongli looks...conflicted, of course, the entire time he's looked this way but now more than even Guizhong can notice it plain as day in his eyes. His facial features remain ever stoic as he sits down across from her. It's an arrangement that they've had once before, so many years ago, though the table is not made of stone as one would normally have it. ]

There is not much to hide, I'm afraid. I was not expecting to...see you here. It's been a long time since we have crossed paths and I...still remember everything from our time together.

[ A frown as he looks back at Guizhong, his expression serious. ]

I never knew what to say if we ever encountered one another again. But now the impossible has happened and I am still at a loss. [ A pause. ] I am sorry, truly, for being unable to protect you. It was my duty at the time and I failed to uphold it and due to my failure, you and our people suffered greatly.

[ He looks...tired somewhat and not at proud or refined as he normally should be. He looks more human than he ever possibly would. ]