A while later, after everyone had had enough of this mountain valley lake, they gathered their stuff and prepared to continue on their trail. After all, they had only walked half of the trail so far.
This trail was called the 'Valley of Serenity' because at the end of it, the hikers would find beautiful natural hot spring pools inside a mountain valley.
The group, refreshed by their interlude at the mountain valley lake, resumed their trek. The well-trodden ribbon of trail continued its ascent, the scent of pine still prominent. Ayia, Shizuka, and Kaori had the most experience in hiking, so they assumed the role of guides in this hike with their friends.
"Alright, everyone, stick together!" Ayia called out, her voice bright and clear. "This next section gets a little steeper."
Shizuka adjusted her backpack. "Just take it slow. We've got plenty of daylight. It's not even midday yet, and the sun will set only after 7 pm today."
