Siduri Returns

"Is the heat to your liking, Ritsuka?"

A chill went up Ritsuka's at the flat tone of her voice. She was right behind him. He could see her sandals at the edge of his vision.

"O-oh, um, yes, thank you, Siduri." Ritsuka was too slow in covering up, the clear water having exposed his little willy.

Siduri giggled.

His heart sank.

Siduri was composed, kind, and well-spoken. She didn't let emotion overrun her face or decisions. He didn't believe she was the type to give a half-suppressed laugh at a man's most vunerable, most sensitive part. There was already a veil on her mouth and adding a hand stiffled her reaction entirely.

Ritsuka could barely hear the quiet giggle, even though he was so close. But it was undeniably there.

Her head shaking slightly, Siduri said, "Have the gods cursed you?"

"N-no, it's just...cold," Ritsuka replied.

"I see." Siduri smiled. She did not believe him in the slightest.