[Zhongli remains for a moment, letting Dohalim get comfortable before he stands up to follow, though he just settles on the edge nearby, for now. the question, and its inevitable origin of worry, are hardly a surprise... and he smiles faintly before he speaks again.]

Of course. That would be true, if you didn't dismiss me wholesale, even without our contract. [a hand comes to rest on one of Dohalim's shoulder, light and unobtrusive.] For now, do you need anything? I will fetch some water for you, you'll likely need that later.