The Goddess has paused her task to look at Merlin with a touch of concern, with empathy. Gently, she asks, "Is that the reason for your change in demeanor?"

Were it merely a lack of flirting, she wouldn't even be asking. Without knowing how long its been, she can't put an exact number on how long they've been having sex, but of course the depth and level of flirting would naturally conform itself. Yet, Merlin's brusqueness is beginning to make sense, and Melinoë feels slightly foolish, if not guilty, for failing to put the pieces together.