Chapter 122 - 119: As long as he remains like arima— he’s safe!
"Excuse me, I'd like a glass of water."
Kanzaki Ryoma's face remained expressionless, but the inferno blazing in his mouth begged for mercy. The heat from the meal was no joke.
Without a word, Mado Kureo gestured to his daughter. Mado Akira stood up and headed to the kitchen, returning shortly with a cup of hot water.
Ryoma stared at the steam rising from the cup and fell into a moment of silence.
Of course, he knew hot water was the most effective remedy for intense spice. But that initial burn, when hot met hot, was going to be hell.
Still, he braced himself and took a slow gulp.
The first few seconds were like swallowing fire. But just as quickly, the sharp edge of the spice receded. He managed to keep his expression composed.
Seeing his reaction, Akira said calmly, "Based on maximum efficiency, hot water neutralizes spice faster. Cold water might feel better, but it prolongs the process."
No surprise there. Akira, like her father, was a workaholic, always focused on function over form. She approached even a simple act like drinking water with logic and calculated precision.
"I know," Ryoma said as he held the cup, "I just needed to mentally prepare."
He took another sip.