The sky gradually darkened, and Kakarot and the others brought their leisurely hot spring visit to an end, slowly rising from the water.
After their soak, their bodies felt reinvigorated, so light they seemed ready to rise on the wind.
The spring water had nourished everyone's skin to a faint, rosy glow, leaving every inch softer and smoother than ever before.
Even Simba's and Ailik's fur had become silkier, gleaming with a healthy sheen in the dim light.
The relaxation radiating from within made them feel as though every cell was happily stretching and singing.
"Brother, look! Haven't I gotten prettier?"
After everyone left the hot spring pool, Lilith bounded over to Kakarot like a cheerful kitten, wrapped both hands around his arm, and spoke coaxingly.
The corners of Kakarot's mouth lifted slightly as he deliberately teased her. "Have you? Why can't I tell?"
"You're so mean, Brother! I'm not playing with you anymore!" Lilith pretended to be angry, sticking her lower lip far out.
She immediately released Kakarot's arm and ran over to Lina, not forgetting to turn back and glare at him.
Watching this, Lina couldn't help smiling. She narrowed her eyes and teased him.
"Kakarot, do you think we've gotten prettier, then?" As she spoke, she pointed to the beauties beside her, fresh from their baths.
"Hehe! Big Brother Kakarot, have I gotten prettier?"
Vian and Emily held hands as they asked with smiles, their faces full of anticipation.
Yingyue and Iris also stood nearby, smiling at Kakarot with a hint of mischief in their eyes.
Seeing them arrayed before him, Kakarot inwardly sensed trouble. He didn't dare joke anymore and hurriedly put on an appeasing smile.
"Oh, Lilith! I was only joking with you. Of course you're beautiful!
"And Lina, Vian, Emily, Yingyue, Iris, you've all