While you still have some daylight left, you suggest taking a quick break to visit the town's beaches. After all, you haven't had many opportunities to actually enjoy the island's scorching weather.

Honourshine: "It certainly has been warmer than I imagined it would be. I suppose we could cool down for a little while."

Moonflower: "Ooh, let's do that!"

Tsu-Ko: "An interlude, is it? Then I might as well give you some privacy. Just say my name whenever you need me again, alright?"

You nod, and thank Tsu-Ko for her invaluable help thus far.

Tsu-Ko: "Count your blessings."

And with that, the sprite vanishes into a colourful shower of magic sparkles once more, letting you and your friends enjoy some alone time together in this foreign land.

You follow the southern road down to the beach area, and as you pass the docks, you catch sight of some of the ship's crew enjoying their evening. You exchange some waves from afar, then hook back northward, and walk along the sandy shore.

Before long, you leave the sounds of civilization behind, keeping only the crashing waves of the ocean, the gentle rustling of leaves, some exotic birdsongs, and the strident buzzing of cicadas.

Moonflower: "Hey, this is kinda like that magic spa we went to in Canterlot, remember? Maybe I shoulda packed some beach toys."

You grin, and ask Moonflower if those beach toys include Apple Basket.

Moonflower: "Heehee...! Have you ever been to a magic spa, Honourshine?"

Honourshine: "I think I know which one you mean, but no. Spas aren't really my thing."

Moonflower: "Oh yeah, I guess that makes sense. Ooh, is that why Blazer got so good at givin' massages?"

Honourshine: "Did he, now...?"

You are sitting on the beach, watching the waves come and go as you chat, when a strange sensation washes over you. Your vision begins to dim — or so you think, until you notice your companions looking around, confused.

In mere moments, the land is shrouded in shadow. The bright blue skies darken to a starry expanse, the horizon bordered by a golden aura, while a giant moon eclipses the sun and lights up like a crystal ball. The birds fall silent.

A gust of wind follows close behind the darkness, blowing the day's heat away until the air is refreshingly mild. Within seconds, the night has fallen. Slowly, crickets begin to join in the nightly woodland song.

Honourshine: "That was... sudden."

Moonflower: "Look! There's only one moon now, and it's super big!"

You take a look around, and find that indeed, the moon shines much brighter than you are used to. Although it is now night, you can see well enough in the moonlight. In the distance, the town's many lamps have been lit, burning an amber glow.