[ He was hoping he'd say that, truth be told, but he didn't want to suggest it lest he inspire his charge—his housemate, his friend—to push himself too far. There's a glint of warmth in his eyes as Konstantin offers. ]

You are less worn out than most of the kids here. [ Sick, yes, but not weary or useless in the way he's implying, however jokingly. ] It'll take a lot of water. It should go faster if one person is manning the stove, I think.

[ He finally holds his teacup up to his lips and hazards a sip; it's hot but tolerably so by now. ]

This is good. You make tea well. Like I remember.