Chapter 1683: Chapter 1500: Relaxation Time Part 1
A/N: Wow! Another milestone reached. This volume is slowly closing, Higher World volume will start after this one.
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Maria and Luna emerged from the war council, the weight of the impending conflict still clinging to them like frost. The air in the grand hall, once buzzing with fervent discussion, now held a tense anticipation.
"We need a moment to unwind," Luna declared, her voice low but firm. "Before we send another wave off on a mission, we need to be sharp."
Maria understood. The fight ahead would demand unwavering focus and a clear mind. With a shared nod, they made their way through the labyrinthine corridors of the palace, heading towards the recreational facilities nestled within the heart of the fortress.
The sauna wasn't a simple wooden room heated by coals. This was a marvel of both magic and engineering, designed to offer an unparalleled experience. Stepping through the ornately carved oak doorway, they were greeted by a wave of humid heat that instantly loosened the tension in their muscles.
The room itself was a marvel of polished obsidian, its dark surface reflecting the flickering light of strategically placed enchanted crystals. These crystals, imbued with fire magic, pulsed with a soft, orange glow that cast long shadows across the room. The air hung heavy with the invigorating scent of pine and eucalyptus, carried on a gentle current that whispered through hidden vents.
In the center of the room stood a large, circular pool of lukewarm water, its surface shimmering like a liquid mirror. Surrounding the pool, carved into the cool obsidian walls, were individual seating areas. Each seat was upholstered in a plush, crimson fabric that seemed to mold itself to the contours of the body, offering ultimate comfort.
As they settled onto their respective seats, a wave of relaxation washed over Maria. The icy tendrils of worry that had coiled around her eased, replaced by a comforting warmth that spread through her body. Luna, usually stoic and calculating, leaned back with a sigh, a hint of a smile gracing her lips.
"This is exactly what we needed," she murmured, closing her eyes and letting the heat and the soothing aroma work their magic.
"Perhaps you're right," she admitted, a playful glint in her ice-blue eyes.
"But there's something invigorating about defying expectations, wouldn't you agree?"
Luna couldn't help but smile back. There was a reason Maria was their leader. Beneath her icy exterior resided a playful spirit, one that knew the importance of a brief respite even in the face of looming conflict.
"Indeed," she conceded. "Lead the way then."
Their steps echoed as they navigated towards the pool area. Unlike the stark minimalism of the sauna and cold shower, the pool area was a vibrant oasis nestled within the heart of the fortress. Sunlight, filtered through specially enchanted glass panes, bathed the room in a
warm glow.
The centerpiece of the space was a magnificent pool, its crystal-clear water shimmering invitingly. Lush greenery lined the edges, offering shaded alcoves for those seeking a moment of solitude. In the distance, a gentle waterfall cascaded into a smaller pool, the sound like a soothing melody.
As they entered the room, the scent of chlorine and blooming orchids filled their senses. A few women enjoying a brief reprieve from their training, swam laps or relaxed on plush chaise lounges by the poolside. Their laughter, a welcome contrast to the tension that usually hung heavy in the air, filled the room.
Maria and Luna exchanged another glance, a silent understanding passing between them. This was what they were fighting for - not just the safety of their family, but the joy and camaraderie that filled this haven they had built together.
With a sigh of contentment, Maria shed her towel, revealing the sleek lines of her gorgeous form. Luna followed suit, her movements fluid and efficient. Stepping onto the pool deck, they each picked a spot by the edge, their gazes drawn to the shimmering water. Maria, ever the strategist, used the time to review their plan in her mind, the cool water lapping at her feet. Luna, on the other hand, closed her eyes, letting the sound of the waterfall and the laughter wash over her, savoring this precious moment of peace before the storm.
For a while, they sat in comfortable silence, the pool area offering a much-needed respite from the burdens they carried.