Taohua awakes with a start. He’s been having nightmares again. The first rays of sun haven’t even begun to shine. He’s inside of an inn for once. He shifts into a half seated position when he hears movement in within the room.

He feels around beside him in the mess of blankets for his beloved. Finding nothing there, he frowns. Loose dark hair spills over his shoulders and the curve of his back. He sighs, unsure of whether he should return to sleep or not.