[center][h3]Evening in Al Mamoon[/h3]
[b]Location:[/b] Sandswept Sky - Al Mamoon
Midna’s [@DracoLunaris], Sectonia’s [@Archmage MC], Primrose’s [@Yankee], Yoshitsune’s [@Rockin Strings]
Word Count: 8440 (+10)
 [/center]

The cleanliness next to godliness group headed for their own destination, namly the ‘to die for’ spa. A quick trip across town under the setting evening sun found them at the address of the spa, which turned out to be a small fenced off allotment on an nondescript side road that contained only one thing.  

[color=Aquamarine]”A stone ring? Is this some kind of joke?”[/color] Midna said incredulously, as she hovered over to inspect the plain ring of paving stones sitting in a dusty yard, before spotting a small plaque on the ground sitting just outside the ring that read “To ascend to heaven, please keep all limbs inside the circle.” 

[color=Aquamarine]”Who wrote this? Would it have killed them to be more specific?”[/color] the princess asked, drifting down and setting foot in the center of the ring. 

[color=92278f]”It sounds like a warp of some kind. Although not as elegant as mine.”[/color] Sectonia said, dismissing Midna’s worry nonchalauntly as she got into the circle.

[color=D34C25][i]"To ascend to heaven[/i]..."[/color] Primrose repeated, reading off of the simple sign. After a moment she pinched the bridge of her nose and smiled wryly. [color=D34C25]"It almost sounds like a clever death trap."[/color] 

Surely that couldn't be the case though... could it? Somewhat warily Primrose stepped into the stone ring, looking directly up into the evening sky where there was nothing unusual to be found. If this was some kind of magic circle, it was a very strange one. If this was some kind of joke, the best case scenario would be that the ladies (and Yoshitsune) stood around making fools of themselves. In the worst case... well. She hoped that Sectonia was right. [i]This had better bring us to a spa,[/i] she thought to herself, [i]Gods know I need to relax.[/i]

Midna glanced to and fro impatiently, and was just about to bark another comment when a giant beam of light blassted down into the center of the ring, before reversing direction in a moment and sorting away skywards, taking those within the ring with it.

[hr]
 
[color=Aquamarine]”Goddeses, what the fuck was that!”[/color] where Midna’s next words as the beam travelers found themselves in an identical ring sitting on a small grassy hilltop (or so it seemed) that sported a single pine tree and little else. The land was surrounded by a thick fog, and the only way forwards seemed to be a sturdy looking rope bridge leading out into the mist.

[color=92278f]”... My methods are far more elegant.”[/color] Sectonia said, shaking her head, not having nearly as much vertigo as Midna. 

"That did not feel right," Yoshitsune moaned with his hand on his stomach. "Can we take your way back after we're done?" he asked the bee queen. 

Primrose thoroughly checked herself to make sure that she did in fact have all of her limbs intact after the abrupt teleportation. Finding herself whole, she looked around at the others and the area around them. There was no trace of the desert they'd been in moments ago. 

[color=D34C25]"So we [i]were[/i] transported..."[/color] Primrose eyed the bridge, the only real thing of note in the area that they could see. [color=D34C25]"...let's hope our promised spa is just ahead."[/color] 

With only one way forwards any deliberation would eventually find them following it and so soon enough the team of spa goers pressed into the mist, which thinned dramatically as they crossed the bridge and revealed a building of white stone decorated with marble pillars upon which a large billboard had been place that declared boldly “Paradise found”

[center][img]https://i.imgur.com/SVgUOZn.png[/img][/center]

Also, said building was on a floating island, as was the one they had come from and, looking around so where several others around them, many sporting similar or even grander temples.  

[color=Aquamarine]”... Someone built a spa in the City in the Sky? Or a city in the Sky I guess”[/color] Midna noted, not that impressed having both been somewhere like this before (though that palace had been ruins of an ancient civilisation) and being from a place where everything floated in the sky. Primrose peeked over the edge, but saw nothing besides clouds below them. After flying with Alibaba, or rather 'Necronomicon,' a floating island wasn't much stranger to her. Although, she could see how the notion of a [i]floating[/i] spa might cause anxiety in some, rather than relaxation.

[color=92278f]”Well this isn’t Floralia. I would know if we had a place like this.”[/color] Sectonia said, rubbing her chin, getting thoughts about maybe, maybe taking these floating islands if they’re good should Floralia be nearby.

Entering through the double doors brought them into a central lobby, where lines of angelic toads awaited, who bowed their heads in greeting and then coursed in their distinctly unangelic voices  “Welcome! Welcome to Shangri-Spa!”

[center][img]https://i.imgur.com/S0ZiOP1.png[/img][/center]

[color=D34C25]"Finally,"[/color] Primrose sighed. They hadn't been duped after all, at last they'd made it to the resort - and she was ready for the spa to live up to it's heavenly motif. 

[color=Aquamarine]”Alright now this is more like it”[/color] Midna said, as she drifted through the lines of attendants and headed for the front desk, where the toad manning the desk also welcomed them “Greetings! Welcome to  Shangri-Spa, a palace to rest, reflect, be renewed and now, thanks to the blessing of our lovely Goddess, be restored through the power of hot springs! How may we help refresh you today?” 

[color=Aquamarine]”That sounds lovely. Here”[/color] Midna replied, before summoning and sliding over their reward for defeating/saving the resistance [color=Aquamarine]”We have this gold pass? Should cover everything”[/color] 

“Ooh, you came from our new Al Mamoon access point? The Cowlipha already made a generous donation to the spa, so you won’t have to pay a penny. How is her majesty? We haven’t had her visit in a while.” the toad asked, sliding the pass back once he had inspected it and confirmed it as legit.

[color=Aquamarine]”She’s got a cheese related sleeping sickness at the moment I am afraid.. Wait, the ‘Al Mamoon’ access point? Do you have others”[/color]  Midna asked

“We do, and we’re opening up new ones all the time! But before you ask, we are a spa service, not a fast travel service. Having people trekking through here going to and fro would completely ruin the aesthetic, drain the transport system and anger the various merchant guilds and unions to boot” The toad quickly broke off any thoughts of unintended usage, and when Midna attempted to protest about how them using it would be worthwhile because of how important their cause was she was interrupted by a polite cough from a [url=https://cdn.wikimg.net/en/kidicaruswiki/images/b/b9/Strongarm_artwork.png]particularly beefy centurion[/url] who was accompanied by four titchy in comparison [url=https://cdn.wikimg.net/en/kidicaruswiki/images/4/44/Centurion_Artwork.png]bow armed[/url] comrades. The Five of them were hanging out unobtrusively in a guard room found to the right of the desk, but looked prime and ready to deal with any trouble.

Yoshitsune looked them over and, while he thought he could easily take them, chose not to cause trouble for the very friendly service they were getting from the mushroom-shaped people. He did move closer to the larger guard with a soft smile and a respectful bow. "Thank you for guarding this lovely place full of friendly beings."

Sectonia made note of what the caretaker had said. So this wasn’t just a thing of Al Mamoon, but everywhere? Hm.... Even better but this would be a future thing, she wasn’t going to start anything now.

Midna pursed her lip, weighed up the odds, and despite finding them in her favor decided that [color=Aquamarine]”You know what. I just want a bath. What do you have?”[/color] 

The toad, who had looked a little pensive, nodded appreciatively to the muscle (and got a cool thumbs up in return) and was then more than happy to hand her a [url=https://mario.wiki.gallery/images/0/0c/PMTOK_Shangri-Spa_map.jpg]map[/url] of the spa, and then following that up with informing them that “We’ve also got a successive soaker campaign! Here, take this stamp card with you as you visit the springs. If you collect them all, we’ll give you a special prize!” and then sliding said card, which had five spots on it, over the desk to them as well.

[color=Aquamarine]”Huh. Sure, thanks”[/color] she replied, before popping it into storage.

“Also, check out our newly renovated banquet hall once you're done soaking!” the toad added finally, as Midna splayed out the map in front of everyone and asked [color=Aquamarine]”So what one do you think sounds like the best?”[/color] 

[color=92278f]”Hm… Perhaps the nearby one, then the one of bliss. I don’t know how jungle mist is supposed to be appealing.”[/color] Sectonia said, offering her suggestion. [color=92278f]”Now if it was in a flower field under moonlight, name it the spring of dreams or some such, that would be far more appealing.”[/color] She said, giving a bit of an offhand comment and reference Midna wouldn’t recognize her own world’s Fountain of Dreams.

[color=D34C25]"Let's see... 'Sanctuary' sounds nice, but I agree with Sectonia. It seems like the closest one is 'purification.' Number three."[/color] the dancer pointed out. [color=D34C25]"Why don't we start there? A deep, purifying soak sounds perfect."[/color] 

Primrose turned to one of the building's exits, a side door which led out to the rest of the resort's islands judging by the map. [color=D34C25]"Then we can go on to the others if there's time. Frankly I would like to go to the banquet hall sooner rather than later, but first - a bath."[/color] 

Primrose stepped up to the concierge's desk with a question in mind. [color=D34C25]"Are there changing rooms at the springs? And do you happen to launder clothes here?"[/color] 

“Oh, yeah. That’ll be just through the door on your left, and the rest of the spa is through a door on the other end of it. Plus we have complimentary bathrobes you can use there, and we can take care of your outfits while you’re out enjoying the rest of the spa” The desk-toad told them pleasantly, before taking a glance at said battle worn outfits and gave a brief look that said that he thought they needed it. “You’ll find the purification pool right after, and I highly recommend taking that short dip in it.” 

[color=Aquamarine]”Looks like that will be our first stop either way then”[/color] 

[color=92278f]”I would recommend none of you try to sit on my thorax. One slip and it might end very poorly.”[/color] Sectonia said with a laugh as she went into the changing room, leaving the alcremie that was somehow sleeping even though that combat with one of the toads to take care of as the rest of the group soaked.


[center][img]https://mario.wiki.gallery/images/0/01/PMTOK_Shangri-Spa_view_2.png[/img][/center]

About ten minutes later the spa gowers emerged from the entrance building, cleansed of the filth of battle thanks to the spa of purification(who’s stamp had been added to their card), and garbed in pristine white bathrobes that were styled to look like togas. Quick drying and yet also highly porous, they were made specifically to to be bathed in, allowing modesty to be maintained while not getting in the way of the rejuvenating water one bit. This was particularly fortunate for Yoshitsune, as Primrose would have kicked him out of the bath otherwise seeing as they were co-ed. As it were, the four of them could soak together and relax, even if it was a bit of a tighter fit than preferable with one of them being a giant queen bee. 

Having received some help from other spa workers, his wheels and engines were encased with a protective plastic that sealed water tight just below his knees. Not understanding the technology himself, other than how he'd been able to use it, he was grateful for the assistance and knowledge that these mechanical pieces could not safely be submerged. He was also glad for the robe as he wasn't sure how the ladies would've reacted otherwise. 


A wooden bridge led them across into the central island hosting a water fountain, from which the other 4 hotsprings could be reached. Number 6 and 4 on their map were reachable by simple bridges, and the formerly secret number ?’s by a simple trip through a tunnel to the west. The final spa, the one labeled jungle mist, hung to the northwest, and seemed to have an entire sprawling jungle going along with it that might make reaching it an ordeal on top of its benefits being rather unclear.

Finally, to the north where bowser’s flying castle had once crashed, the old banquet hall had been rebuilt, (or simply replaced wholesale by Galeem), by a grand [url=https://i.imgur.com/yitQ4sv.png] temple[/url] to the goddess Palutena, though by the smells if italian cuisine wafting down from it, it was clear that it still served the purpose of the structure whose position it had usurped.

A pair of other business had been set up in the area as well that weren't on the official map: a small item market on the west side of the central plaza, while down below the spring of bliss was a door to a secluded minion coffee shop, which was 100% not stealing hot water ment for the spa above it.

[color=D34C25]"This place is really beautiful,"[/color] Primrose remarked. They'd have to tell the others about it when they had the chance so they could experience it for themselves. It was hard to tell the time, but she didn't think they'd been soaking for that long in the Spring of Purification. She placed one hand on her hip, the other gesturing slightly as she spoke to the other three.

[color=D34C25]"Well, I am feeling much better. I wouldn't mind visiting another spring,"[/color] she said, despite mentioning earlier that she was planning to head toward the banquet hall. That was indeed her plan, but one more soak couldn't hurt. [color=D34C25]"After that, you can find me at the banquet hall. I am a bit curious to see the 'Spring of Rainbows,' but I don't think I'd want to fill out that whole card... "[/color] she smiled lightly at the non-humans, pinching at her own skin, made slightly more pale by the spirit she'd absorbed earlier. [color=D34C25]"I don't know about you two, but human skin gets prune-like with too much moisture."[/color] 

[color=92278f]”A Queen does not ‘prune’ in the water.”[/color] Sectonia said, having an exoskeleton instead of skin. [color=92278f]”Maybe we should find you an insect like spirit for you to absorb so you don’t have to worry either?”[/color] Sectonia said with a cackle.


The mere suggestion nearly wiped the smile from Primrose's face, but she thought she recognized some humor in the queen's voice and responded in kind. [color=D34C25]"I'll have to pass. I don't think I would look very good with a shell."[/color]

[color=Aquamarine]”Can you even feel anything through all that? Isn’t it like always having armor on?''[/color] Midna asked

[color=92278f]”I can feel things just fine.”[/color] Sectonia said. [color=92278f]”How else would this spa be enjoyable? I can keep myself proper with my antillions.”[/color] 

"As enjoyable as the first spa was, I'm ready to eat something myself," Yoshitsune interjected with a slight bow. With that, he walked to the banquet hall, giving a soft smile and small nod to every guard he passed. The ladies waved him off before continuing their conversation.

[color=D34C25]"Let's stop at that shop on the way out too,"[/color] she suggested. With connections outside of just Al Mamoon, it might have had some interesting things for sale. And if they accepted gold or leaves for currency, then Primrose still had some to spare. 

[color=Aquamarine]”We could do that,”[/color] Midna said, somewhat doubtful what they sold would be useful. They probably had soap and stuff, she thought, and then took back the thought about the shop not being useful. [color=Aquamarine]”As for the stamps, I assume they don't demand the card back when we leave, so we could always check out the others with, well the others''[/color] Midna pointed out.

[color=Aquamarine]”When it comes to which one we try today… you suggested the spa of bliss right? That sounds simply divine to me and it isn't… all the way over there''[/color] she waved a hand over at the distant jungle.

[color=92278f]”Let's see if it brings bliss shall we? So far they have at least kept up on the appearance front. And yes that one.. Well I suppose I can fly us over there but it doesn’t sound refreshing.”[/color] Sectonia said. [color=92278f]”Hm… they should have some renewable items as well. Magic does wonders for keeping your appearances over the mundane.”[/color] mentioning the shops. She wasn’t sure either way, but this place was fairly high class.

The spring of bliss was indeed a lot more conveniently located, just a quick trip up the bridge would take them to that particular hotspring, and its fold and crease smoothing [url=https://mario.wiki.gallery/images/thumb/8/82/PMTOK_Spring_of_Bliss.jpg/800px-PMTOK_Spring_of_Bliss.jpg]pink waters[/url] over which they’d have almost free reign, baring a trio of [url=http://static2.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20081118162650/earthbound/images/6/66/MrSaturn.png]mr saturns[/url] paddling in one corner, enjoying the hot spring that was reminiscent of a similarly pink pool back in their home vally.

[center][url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BiH89-fn7ZM]soundtrack[/url][/center]

[url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BiH89-fn7ZM]“[img]https://i.imgur.com/7o01BSr.png[/img]”[/url] one of them said in their (what Midna would describe as) unique accent, to which the princess replied with a [color=Aquamarine]”sure, yeah, thanks''[/color] before floating over the pool and settling in on the opposite corner front hem, lowering herself into the water with a sigh. 

[color=Aquamarine]”Oh wow it feels almost… silky? That’s… well it's very weird and very nice.''[/color] she commented, before waving the others in/over to join her. 

Primrose slipped into the water a few feet away from the Twilight Princess, sinking down until only her shoulders and head were above the water. She tipped her head back to lean against the marble lining of the spring so that her hair - tied up high on her head in a ponytail - would stay relatively dry.

[color=D34C25]"Mm, it's nice,"[/color] the dancer agreed. [color=D34C25]"It has a nice scent too."[/color] 

She looked between the two toad statues, pouring red and blue streams of water into the pool. Apparently that was how the spring got it's light pinkish color, an appealing shade to be sure.

The princess had no concerns for her hair, and indeed seemed to have the exact opposite plan as she removed the fused shadow that she hadn't changed out of. That she removed it (propping it up on the side of the bath) and then undid her own pony tail meant that she was (quite literally) letting her hair down for the first time since they’d met. 

Sectonia soaked much like she did before, needing to lay down in the water instead of sit due to her size. Even so, she couldn’t cover her entire lower half, needing to roll occasionally to get the best soak. [color=92278f]”From a desert town to someplace actually good. I just figured everything in this combined world was going to be horrible.”[/color] Sectonia said, giving her input as she lazily lounged in the water. 


Midna lay back and floated in the water with just her face exposed to the air for a little while, her new tail lazily flicking under the water, before saying [color=Aquamarine]”Goddesses, what a day. I don’t know about you, but I can't wait to get out of the desert, even if it means freezing my ti-'[/color] she paused as she caught and then correct herself  [color=Aquamarine]”tail off up that mountain''[/color] she lifted a hand out of the water and lazily waved in the direction of the summit who’s peak rivled their own cloud bound bathing spot. Primrose let her eyes slip closed, chuckling at Midna's near slip of the tongue. 

[color=92278f]”I already have some solutions for the cold. I am not the biggest fan of it either. But I won't be freezing ‘my wings off’”[/color] Sectonia said, making it clear she heard Midna’s little tongue slip and was ‘playing along’ but far more regally.

[color=D34C25]"The familiarity of the desert has long worn off,"[/color] the dancer said in way of agreement, [color=D34C25]"it's only been two days, but a change of pace would be nice. No more towns with a food motif for starters..."[/color] 

[color=Aquamarine]”Watch as the snow turns out to be ice cream''[/color] Midna joked, before smacking her lips and wondering if they could get their hands on that delicacy. It would certainly be a most welcome treat to contrast the desert heat below. Then she had a thoughtful look and sat up to be more sociable and asked [color=Aquamarine]”So this is like your home then. Or down there I mean. How do you live an entire life sweltering under the sun like that?''[/color] 

[color=D34C25]"It's hell, but you learn to cope after a while,"[/color] Primrose said. She didn't move a muscle, even as she continued speaking. [color=D34C25]"Though I didn't spend quite my entire life in the Sunlands, I didn't grow up there."[/color] It had been frustrating for the dancer when she first realized she'd spent the majority of her life wallowing in Sunshade, but she told herself it had been worth it after she'd finally caught the crows' trail. Despite living there for so many years, she had never considered it to be 'home' - although at times she hardly felt that Noblecourt was her home anymore either. 

Not wanting to speak in depth about her story at this point, after all even though they'd survived some deadly situations together the three ladies had still only just met, Primrose was quick to follow up with a question of her own. [color=D34C25]"I would not mind hearing more about your homes. The point of view of a princess and queen sounds interesting."[/color] 

[color=92278f]”I for one can’t understand how you could even live in this sand trap. The only thing I’ve found useful here is the sand itself, but only for the glass it makes.”[/color] Sectonia said. And while Primrose was being cagey about her home, even though there probably wasn’t much to talk about, she wanted to know what went on in Floralia, which Sectonia was glad to share. 

[color=92278f]”Floralia is a beautiful kingdom, and run far more efficiently than what we see here.”[/color] Sectnonia said. Flipping to sit up a bit and even though her lower half was being soaked, she still towered over Primrose . [color=92278f]”Floralia is a series of islands in the sky. We have beautiful fields of flowers between our major districts. As you caught earlier our entertainment district is dedicated to the performance arts, which tends to be in the form of clowns or artwork itself. We even have a living painting as one of our exhibits. Although we do have a food district where much of the area is made of food like that village before, but with more honey and biscuits than frosting. We have our residential, forest, and mining districts all connected by elegant railways that give a great view of the flower fields, although we only have access to marble and volcanic minerals in Floralia.”[/color] 

While so far Sectonia could only sing praises about her kingdom, the next section even she knew they were lacking, so she put on the best front she could, but the other girls could tell even she knew this area needed growth. [color=92278f]”And of course we can make mechanical marvels in our industrial zones, although I wouldn’t be surprised if this world had even better technology that could be more elegant...”[/color] 

But that was only a small lul in her singing her own praises, as she finished with. [color=92278f]”And of course my palace, Made of wonderful stonework, crystals, flowers, and under an eternal moonlit sky thanks to my magic. All with an active military ready to assist where needed.”[/color] Sectonia concluded, curating her words to really sell her kingdom. At some point during Sectonia’s speech Primrose did open her eyes again, giving the queen her polite attention. Given Sectonia’s focus on elegance and beauty, she had no doubt that Floralia was a gorgeous kingdom. 

[color=92278f]”I’ve gathered a few things from our twilight princess here, but never a full story. Let us see what your place is like, Midna.”[/color]

[color=Aquamarine]”Unless you want to be turned into beasts or drifting spirits, devoid of bodies, I am afraid there will be no seeing my home''[/color] Midna informed her, a touch dower now [color=Aquamarine]”That was a lovely sales pitch, I’m sure the visar will love it if you can figure out a way to link your home to here, or down below rather, but the nature of my realm and my people means we are far more… isolationist, by choice and by nature both”[/color]

[color=Aquamarine]”The world of light and the world of twilight do not mix well. The rest of my kind can not survive under the light of the sun, and I am only able to due to divine intervention. You’d need the same to visit without losing yourself to the realm’s dark power”[/color] she shrugged [color=Aquamarine]”so I could tell you about about how the sky is bathed in the hues of an eternal sunset, or of our cities floating in the void powered and protected by the light of the sols, or the centuries long peace it has endure if you discount the last few fucking years where things got nasty for a bit before I kicked fucking zant off of my thrown. Twice! Place wasn't good enough for him and he tried to take over the world of light instead the bastard”[/color] she said, going on an angry tangent before coughing and getting back on track  [color=Aquamarine]”What I mean is it’s nice, beautiful even despite its limitations, but you’ll never visit so I amn’t going to give you some kind of tourism sales pitch for it”[/color]

[color=92278f]”Seems like you and your people should come to Floralia, unless moonlight also causes you to burn? If anything, things aren’t so drab and a fight for survival.”[/color] Sectonia said, still selling her kingdom. [color=92278f]”Only issue would be space, but I’m sure with this world here, it wouldn’t be too difficult finding more land...”[/color]

[color=Aquamarine]”Hey now, we’re fine thanks. Practically a utopia. Like I said the only time anything went wrong, once our ancestors stabilised everything ages back, was when Zant messed it all up,”[/color] Midna replied defensively, before actually thinking over what had been said and replying that [color=Aquamarine]”Your offer’s nice, but the moonlight is still light. And even if it did work, or I did find some place my people could visit, this world isn’t exactly going to be around for long so there's not much point in making plans about it.”[/color] 

[color=92278f]”What makes you think the worlds will separate upon the death of the glow ball?”[/color] Sectonia said. [color=92278f]”To bring multiple different worlds together like this is no small feat of magic, and I don’t think magic is keeping them held together.”[/color] This did make Sectonia ponder though. [color=92278f]”Although I do wonder just how big this place is.  Popstar wasn’t that large overall, but there was an entire galaxy to grasp… Is it the same here but on a much larger scale, or is this a single planetoid?”[/color]

[color=Aquamarine]”If it doesn't go automatically then we find a way to put it back manually. That’s just what you do, and I am speaking from experience here as someone who was involved in basically this exact situation but with all of time rather than all of the worlds being smashed together.”[/color] Midna explained matter of factly. She’d actually done it twice if you counted her permanently severing the worlds of light and twilight from one another  [color=Aquamarine]”but also yes, I agree, this can't be, well, everything ever. At least on this ring anyway, there might be more world beyond the horizon,”[/color] she actually peaked up out of the water when saying that, perring across the world, but due to cloud cover was unable to see what might lay beyond the edges of the map they had briefly seen all the way back at Alcamoth, before sitting back down and concluding  [color=Aquamarine]”but if all of Galeem’s guardians are here then, well...”[/color] she left her worry unspoken.

[color=D34C25]"Ladies..."[/color] Primrose's voice gently made itself know after a few moments. She sat up, crossing one leg over the other. [color=D34C25]"This is hardly relaxing talk, hm?"[/color] 

The dancer didn't seem offended, in fact she smiled lightly at the other two. In their down time, which they hadn't gotten nearly enough of before now, Primrose had considered the nature of the world they found themselves in too. She thought that putting everything back the way it was would be the best thing for everyone, and assumed like many others that once Galeem was defeated things would just naturally go back to normal. But deep in her heart the words of the Master of Masters resonated. Not only were several worlds cobbled together, but timelines as well - and there were people in this stitched together world that would raise spirits, and bring them back to life... There were a lot of questions she had, and some borderline blasphemous plans, and it meant seeing them through before putting things back the way they were.

Of course, she didn't mention it out loud though.

[color=D34C25]"It's been interesting to learn about so many different places and things, so thank you,"[/color] she said. Slowly she stood up, stretching her arms over her head. [color=D34C25]"I think I'm getting near to that 'pruney' state though."[/color] 

[color=92278f]”Yes, best not to oversoak. After all, we have a few more of these springs to visit. Perhaps a bit of food. If this place keeps up its appearance, things here should be better than what the others were going to.”[/color] Sectonia said, squeezing the water out of her fluff and making sure it was proper.

[color=Aquamarine]”Fine fine,”[/color] Midna agreed, somewhat grateful for Primrose ‘s intervention into their royale ‘discussion’ because it had not been a particularly relaxing one, all things told. To many bad memories and conflicting ideals [color=Aquamarine]”How about we catch up with Yoshitsune?”[/color] she suggested, floating up out of the tub and marvaling slightly at how the robes they wore dried almost immediately upon exiting the water, the spa’s pink waters evaporating away in mere moments.

Said waters. Intended to smooth and wrinkled paper in the realm they belonged in, had had an interesting effect on the bathers. Primrose’s concern about pruning due to staying in overlong turned out to be unfounded, and indeed the opposite had occurred, the waters having smoothed out any wrinkles and remostuirised up any dry skin, the latter being the greatest of a blessings after being exposed to the hot dry desert over the past two days. It was a pleasant surprise.

The three of them headed for the banquet hall, and found within a lovely mediterranean restaurant, which certainly was a step above the joint the other group had went too, but by no means the highest class place in the world, who’s menu was mostly founded on the triad of wheat, olive oil, and wine. An angelic toad greeted them at the entrance and directed them through the room (a lovely airy affair, where round marble tables, surrounded by comfy Chaise Lounge chairs upon which a few other guest where reclining while enjoying their meals, sat among the columns of the temple in between which a refreshing breeze blew and the evening sun shone through basking the hall in its gradually reddening rays) to the table Yoshitsune had taken up residence, where the man was conveniently just coming to the end of a starter.

[color=Aquamarine]”Couldn’t wait for us huh?”[/color] Midna joked, before stealing an olive from a complimentary dish of them at the center of the table, her eyes widening a little at the taste  [color=Aquamarine]”salty”[/color] that she hadn’t expected at all. [color=D34C25]”That would be the brine. It looks like an olive, usually they are kept in salt water.”[/color] Primrose peered over the dish, taking a few herself. [color=D34C25][url=https://octopathtraveler.fandom.com/wiki/Olive_of_Life
]"Useful little fruits."[/url][/color] 

"Apologies, ladies, but I was too hungry to wait," the samurai replied sheepishly. 

The ladies took their seats and were quickly provided with another 3 menus, from which to order from. By the standards of most of the other group there was nothing particularly exotic on offer in the list of foods on offer, but for a quadrant of people who had no idea where ‘the mediterranean’ was the helpful toad (who admittedly didn't know where that place was either, but did know what the food from it was like at this point) was onhand to explain whatever dishes from the lands around that sun kissed sea caught their fancy.

Primrose went with a chicken bowl with rice, tabbouleh, red cabbage and pickled radish. When she handed her menu back to the winged Toad with a smile, it's face pinkened slightly and it quickly went over to collect from the other two newcomers to the table. 

Sectonia, not too familiar with this type of food, asked for something that was sweet, or if that wasn’t available, savory but without a salty taste. The olives really didn’t leave a good taste in her mouth. It wasn’t that she was against spices, but more it just tasted like ocean, and sea spray wasn’t very flattering. 

Minda meanwhile, having never even been close to an ocean let alone having gotten a taste of it, went for some seafood for the novelty of it, which resulted in her ordering some greek stewed octopus and olives in tomato sauce with pasta based on the waiter’s suggestion.

Before the toad left, he turned to Yoshitsune with a smile. "Your order should be here in just a couple minutes." The samurai merely nodded with a smile of his own in reply. 

While they waited, Primrose laced her fingers together and rested her chin on the back of her hands, elbows propped on the table. Now that they were reunited with Yoshitsune, Primrose asked him if he was enjoying the place for some light conversation.

"Yes," he nodded with a smile, "the beings here are very friendly, much more so than my home, and the guards seem a bit happier to patrol than to actually stop or prevent any problems. I do wonder how strong they are. I wonder if I could convince one to spar with me."


[color=Aquamarine]”Having two guys battling it out might take away from the relaxing atmosphere of the place”[/color] Midna joked, before shrugging and saying [color=Aquamarine]”But if that’s something that calms you down, then go for it. Just be careful not to trigger their Gleeming, yes?”[/color] 

[color=92278f]”Two clowns putting on a show however might be decent entertainment.”[/color] Sectonia mused. [color=92278f]”But something tells me the mushroom people aren’t much one for comedy.”[/color]

Midna gave her a little look that made it clear that she felt that the clown part of that comment was pretty uncalled for. Primrose stifled a surprised chuckle, taking a sip of one of the glasses of water that had been left at the table. She composed herself quickly before speaking again. [color=D34C25]"I imagine entertainment here would be of the music variety. Harps, singers..."[/color] she trailed off, looking towards a couple of toads chatting by the door to a staff area. [color=D34C25]"...hopefully professional ones."[/color] 

[color=92278f]”They seem to be competent, if a bit intimidated by us. Can’t blame them, it is rather imposing to be in the presence of such a beautiful queen.”[/color] Sectonia replied, catching where Primrose was looking.

"Most places I've been to where the guards live in or near the complex they're guarding have a small training area," the samurai sighed through gritted teeth. "It wouldn't be a public brawl. I'm smarter than you give me credit for."

Midna flushed slightly at being called out [color=Aquamarine]”yeah I know I know [i]I[/i] was just kidding,”[/color] she insisted [color=Aquamarine]”I’m sure all you will need to do is ask”[/color]

Just then, primrose’s prediction/concern looked to be both coming true as the toads she had spotted wheeled a set of instruments onto a center stage, though one's a bit more diverse than anticipated. Fortunately for everyone involved, one of the little shrill voiced mushroom people did not take center stage, but instead a hero dressed in green who, after waving to a certain perpetually dower looking witch sitting off in one corner, began by singing a [url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a2uIglIc1AY]gentle melody[/url] for his first act, before doing a [url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EorC2eAcV58]love song[/url] followed by, of all things, a  sea shanty about coffee drinking pirates.

The concert atmosphere preclude much in the way of meaningful talk as it went on, and soon enough the party’s meals had arrived, first Yoshitsune’s chicken and rice and then a few minutes later Midna and Primorses’ ordered pasta and rice arrived along with a Honey-glazed roast lamb with potatoes that had been prepared for Sectonia, with an emphasis on the honey for her sweet tooth.

With a small bow, the samurai thanked the waiter before turning to his food. He clapped his hands together with a slightly more formal bow, speaking quickly, "itadakimasu," and began eating as if he were a noble. Given his company, that probably saved him some more snide comments, and instead what he got was a simpel cultural one of [color=Aquamarine]”What does that mean?”[/color] from Midna before she tucked into her pasta.

"The most basic translation," he nodded, "is 'thank you for the food,' or 'let's eat,' because it has no literal translation to any other languages I know."

Midna finished chewing her first bite, swallowed, made a little sound of satisfaction and then after a polite number of moments had passed said [color=Aquamarine]”Huh, interesting. Well then, itadakimasu to you as well”[/color] with a little toast of her wine, before resuming her meal.

Sectonia didn’t say anything unlike Midna, just giving a curt “yes yes.” as she tried her new food. The potatoes were not much to her liking, as they tasted a bit too earthy for a vegetable ‘now only if this was more of a paste…’ she thought. The queen was fine with the lamb. Almost tasted like a wooled waddle dee, but instead this had flavor. Although due to her size, this meal didn’t really fill her up all the way.

While Midna didn't use it entirely correctly, Yoshitsune wasn't going to correct her right then and risk embarrassing the princess. 

The rest of the meal passed pleasantly, accompanied by the music of the bard and a bit of inconsequential smalltalk, and which was followed by some lovely dessert (Chocolate Souffle for Midna. Sectonia got a honey glazed cake piece, which was more up her alley compared to the potatoes. Yoshitsune merely settled for a small, custard filled cake, and their dancer decided to decline.)

Clean, fed and varying levels of intoxicated, the spa squad found their way to the central plaza as the sun set below the horizon and the stars came out above, where only one final obstacle stood in their way. Commercialism.

“HI! Welcome to the Shangri-Spa gift shop and item store!” the toad greeted them from his open air stall  “can i interest you in some memorabilia?  Our soap collection? Or are you here for our more mmmmm combative paraphernalia?” He gave them a conspiratorial eyebrow wiggle to which Minda raised an eyebrow and then nodded, prompting him to glance to both sides as if checking for anyone watching (despite being in full view of the guards and staff) and to then pull up a sheet and unveil a small collection of gear on a second stall (which booked 0 reaction from said guards and staff). 

[hider=Shop inventory:]
A [url=https://i.imgur.com/73ZsCzP.png]sleepy sheep[/url] which could summon a herd of sheep that can cause enemies to fall asleep, but could only do so once. 25g 
A carton of [url=https://i.imgur.com/wjJgDaf.png]egg bombs[/url] egg based grenades. 30g for a box of 6
A pair of [url=https://i.imgur.com/1ammzgT.png]freindship bracelets[/url]: slightly increase speed and power. Increases it a fair bit more if two friends wear them near each other. 55 each
A gerbil sized [url=https://i.imgur.com/DcLGoNd.png]heal puff[/url] which will slowly heal its owner. The simple minded magical construct needs to run around to generate the energy to do this however, and is not good at threat avoidance, so needs to be looked after in combat situations. 140g
A [url=https://i.imgur.com/9ZaLZpc.jpg]Code 1[/url] yoyo which can actually be [url=https://i.imgur.com/jJ2NDPF.gif]weaponised[/url] as well as being usable for tricks. 60g
A [url=https://i.imgur.com/VsgFtUE.gif]Magic Conch[/url] which when blown drains mana and fires large bubbles that can knock enemies into the air when they burst. Tricky to aim due to the projectiles floating upwards after being launched. 210g
A [url=https://i.imgur.com/6EV5tnz.png]Yew wood Lute[/url] which if played, fires a stream of weak green waves of music that pierce foes (but get weaker with each one pierced) if played properly, also grants light life regen to nearby allies. 85g
An [url=https://i.ibb.co/k6gY0cc/Angel-Halo-old.png]angel halo[/url], which does nothing but float over the wearer's head. Glows in darkness but does not emit enough light to see by. A cute souvenir. 40g
A [url=https://i.ibb.co/6XrMTRv/Critter-Shampoo.png]critter shampoo[/url] that changes the color of summoned minions when paired with a dye. 10g
A [url=https://i.ibb.co/Yf0ZD2R/Special-Charm.png]special charm[/url] that increases the luck of the wearer by a small amount. 20g
And, [url=https://i.ibb.co/JzHjM4c/Soap-icon.png]soap.[/url] It's just soap. Smells nice. 1g.
[/hider]

Sectonia didn’t find many of these items that interesting, neither for herself or any of her minions that she could think of. Plus she was kinda broke all things considered unless they were to buy magical crystals. So she floated nearby as she waited for the others to do what they were going to do. Primrose hummed lightly as she browsed, mildly amused at the Toad’s theatrics of pulling up their “secret” stock. There were quite few items, from the more mundane to the exotic, but there was a rough aesthetic they all shared. She could certainly see the use of some and the novelty in others. [color=D34C25]"Hmm..."[/color] 

Midna, as equally broke as Sectonia, did the same, content with window shopping before having a thought and said [color=Aquamarine]”So, we have this gold card”[/color] she said, flashing the reward they had gotten before asking [color=Aquamarine]”Don’t suppose that gets us a discount?”[/color] 

“Not from the secret store. Or the regular store. Sorry, Spa’s gotta cover cover your expenses somehow you know” the toad replied, to which Midna gave a ‘this is acceptable/understandable’ shrug, which got her a smile before the toad continued that “it does however get you a free sample of our soap selection!” before sliding across a set of four pixel art themed scented soaps [url=https://i.imgur.com/obrKjmF.jpg]soaps[/url], each color based off of one of the 4 non rainbow spas.

[color=D34C25]"How cute, thank you,"[/color] Primrose said, picking up the star-shaped soap with the little eyes on it. If anything was to be brought back from here, it had to be soap, and here they had some free of charge. She glanced over the offered items once more before gesturing to the sheep... sticker? It seemed to be made of paper, but it was cute and the dancer thought it might come in handy, not just offensively. She turned to the other three to get their thoughts.

[color=D34C25]"I still have a small sum of leaves and the coins from Al Mamoon's market, if anything seems too useful to pass up..."[/color] she offered.

[color=92278f]”Only the bracelets catch my eye, but as you know, I can’t wear them.”[/color] Sectonia said, waving one of her floating hands. [color=92278f]”...Not many things on popstar can use them, come to think of it.”[/color]

Primrose gave the items Sectonia pointed out another look. [color=D34C25]"Friendship bracelets, hm?"[/color] For some reason the pair of bracelets gave Primrose a weary feeling. Her current companions were well on their way to becoming friends, but the dancer felt she repelled by the idea of wearing that specific jewelry. It was a silly, nonsense feeling, but even so Primrose didn’t speak up about them one way or the other.

Looking at the bracelets himself, Yoshitsune began thinking. "These bracelets have done sort of magic properties, right?" he asked the toad, to which the shopkeeper affirmed and gave them the abstract of their abillities. "Midna, I believe I could purchase these for us if you'd like." He then turned to Sectonia and smiled softly. "Is there anything you'd like? I could set the halo being a good addition to your already beautiful crown."

[color=Aquamarine]”For you and me?”[/color] Midna replied, a touch surprised before deciding she was maybe reading a bit to much into it and saying [color=Aquamarine]”If you wanted an excuse to be around me more you just had to say so swordboy~”[/color] mock-flirtingly before looking thoughtful about the prospect for a moment and then more seriously/genuinely adding [color=Aquamarine]”Actually you never got to do your sparing with the guards right? How about you hit me up before we leave town or on the train ride tomorrow and we can go at it? I need to practice with Mao’s sword anyway, and I’m sure a swordsman like you is full of tips and advice”[/color] 

"Sounds like a plan," the samurai smiled.

[hider=for Primrose]
[url=https://i.imgur.com/73ZsCzP.png]Sleepy Sheep[/url]: A small bit of enchanted paper depicting a somewhat abstract and round sheep. One time use. Pass a little bit of magic through it will expand to be sheep sized, though still perfectly flat, before baaing and summoning a herd of its kin from the realm of dreams. All of the sheep will then charge forwards towards and then past a target or group of targets, causing them to fall into a deep (but entirely mundane) sleep, before all of the sheep, including the sticker, return to the realm of dreams.
[/hider]

[hider=Yoshitsune and Midna]
One each: [url=https://i.imgur.com/1ammzgT.png]freindship bracelets[/url]: A simple metal bracelet sporting a heart shaped emblem made from a red stone. When worn the two ‘lobes’ each gain their own stylized icon representing the two people wearing the matched bands. When the bands are close together (so in the same general area such as a room, small building or garden) each half of the stones will glow softly, with the light intensifying the stronger the bond is between the two wearers.

At a base the band increases damage by 5% and movement speed by 6% even when the wearers are not around each other, but it can raise it by up to a maximum of 15/18% respectively for incredibly close friends. This the current owning pair most certainly are not, but they still gain a decent 7.5% damage and 9% movement speed boost, and could easily raise this to a pleasant 10%/12% by spending a bit more time with/around each other.

Comes with an instruction pamphlet that attempts to translate the glow intensity to various stages of friendship (from simple acquaintances all the way up through BFFs and Ace life partners) and effect efficiency, but fails to deliver the above information to the wearers particularly effectively.

The bracelet can also prevent the wearers from being forced to fight each other via various mind control or enrage effects, the effectiveness of this effect again being based on how close they are.  
[/hider] 

Clean up, well fed, shopping done and free soap received, the spa squad headed back down to