The Heartwood Mountains, their peaks often shrouded in a mystical haze, had been Theo's group's sanctuary for the better part of the afternoon. The lingering warmth of the hot springs, nestled in a hidden grotto along the Valley of Serenity trail, still clung to their skin. But as the sun began its slow descent, casting long, ethereal shadows, Theo knew it was time to move.
"Alright, everyone, last dip in the warmth and then we need to pack it up," Theo called out, his voice carrying over the gentle murmur of a nearby stream. He splashed a bit of the mineral-rich water onto his face, a final farewell to the day's relaxation.
Ayia, drying her purple hair with a small towel, chuckled. "You say that like we haven't been talking about leaving for the past hour, Theo. My toes are starting to prune."
