. . . [Yep these are words he didn't want to hear, but not for the reasons the snakes think.] I'm glad all of you came home safely.

[He gives them both headpets.] And the both of you deserve a soak after handling the difficult task I had given you two. [They seem to like this, tongues flicking with enthusiasm. They're still chilly to the touch, even when they had been under the blankets.

He rather not disturb the two already in the bath, so he'll have to make a little detour to the kitchen and prepare a bowl of warm water for the two snakes. All the while, he can't get Susato off his mind. She nearly died. That can't be sitting well in her mind.]