"I might have to." Huaisang sits up eagerly enough when the tea and food appears. "As happy though I am to be here with you, I am not used to these hours." He yawns, eagerly helping himself to tea and closing his eyes blissfully at the taste of it. When he opens his eyes again, his smile is bright and sweet, as playful as ever. "For the view and the company, I'm willing to make the effort."

The early morning light on the lake is absolutely beautiful, cresting the lotus blossoms with pinkish light, and Huaisang takes a moment to admire it before offering the next topic of conversation. "What do you propose for our itinerary today?"