Interval Event 5: Awkward River Encounter
"Hey, Sango..." Michiru began, his voice carrying a hint of curiosity. "What do you feel like doing today?"
Sango turned her gaze towards the Kururugi boy, her expression contemplative. "I think I'll be doing some laundry. Planning to head down to the river for that."
A smile tugged at Michiru's lips. "Oh, that sounds nice. Well, I could tag along and help you?"
Sango's eyes met his with a gentle smile. "It's alright, Michiru, I can manage it myself. Although," she paused, "I wouldn't mind a hand with carrying the kimonos back here after I'm done."
"Sure thing. I'll be around later then." Michiru replied as he watched Sango away.
A few minutes later Michiru went to look for Sango to see if she was dome doing the laundry as he walked over a small wooden bridge that crossed the river.
"Strange," he mumbled to himself, a hint of concern. "Sango said she was coming here for laundry. Where is she?" Just as that thought left his lips, a startled cry pierced the air. Michiru turned his attention to the direction of the scream and saw Sango submerged in the river, her Hiraikotsu situated at a distance. "Sango!" Michiru's voice was laced with both surprise and guilt. He quickly moved closer, his eyes widening as he realized the situation.
Sango's expression was a mixture of frustration and embarrassment. "You idiot! Look away!"
Michiru stammered, flustered by the unexpected sight. "I-I-I'm s-sorry! I didn't do it on purpose."
Sango's irritation didn't waver. "Whatever! Just look over there!" She ordered.
Michiru felt the heat of his cheeks intensify as he glanced in the direction she pointed. "I'm sorry. I'll just... go now."
As the Kururugi boy awkwardly retreated, Sango's voice took on a more conversational tone. "And hey, don't think I haven't noticed. You're standing there, shocked, but you're still stealing glances."
Kururugi's voice carried a mixture of embarrassment and innocence. "I'm sorry, it's just... well, you're carrying your Hiraikotsu even when you're bathing?"
Sango's response held a touch of nostalgia. "Is that weird?"
Kururugi hesitated before answering. "Honestly, yeah. Considering you're a girl and all."
Sango's gaze held a hint of nostalgia as she spoke. "Really? But it has been with me since I was a little girl."
"I see."
"It's almost like a part of my body now," Sango added, her tone slightly wistful.
Kururugi nodded in agreement. "I can understand that sentiment."
"And, well, how long are you planning to stand there?" Sango asked impatiently as she was still in the water. "I can't get out until you leave."
Michiru snapped back to reality, his face flushing once more. "Oh! Right, sorry!" He said sheepishly his embarrassment visible as he mumbled a final apology before leaving.
Interval Event End