The Timepony's Journal

Chapter 12 - Radiance

Twilight closed the book as she heard Radiance walk down the stairs, rubbing her tired eyes.

"Oh, you're awake. Are you feeling any better?" Twilight asked with a nervous smile.

"Yeah, I'm fine. Better but not exactly great. I've got a thumping big headache."

"How about we go for a walk? Maybe that'll take your mind off of the stress."

The outdoors was just about the same as it was the day before with crisp autumn air and a slight chill in the breeze. It was peaceful but the city square often toned out the silence. Twilight racked her mind for different areas of relaxation. The spa was a likely option but it was often overused, maybe something a little more unconventional. They were already heading in that direction so she might as well bring it up.

"So, have you ever been to Ponyville Spa before? That is if you can remember."

"No... I don't think I have. I'm not even entirely sure what a 'spa' is. They don't have them where I'm... from."

Radiance stumbled back nearly fainting again, the mental strain taking a toll on her body. Luckily Twilight had a shoulder to lie on.

"No worries, I'll help you there," Twilight said as they continued onwards.

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"You sure she shouldn't see any medical assistance?" asked Lotus the co-owner of Ponyville Spa along with her sister Aloe.

"Well we'd have to schedule an appointment in advance for that, you're usually more accepting of walk-ins like this."

Radiance sat in a chair propped up against the wall, trying to slowly process the things that swamped her mind. There was no doubt that Twilight would be able to help her, but would it be enough? She rubbed her temples in circles to get rid of the dull yet aching pain that resided in her skull. Back at the front desk, Twilight looked over her options on the post board next to the counter.

"If you're looking more for mental relaxation, we have a special therapy open soon. The next opening is in ten minutes so it's a bit of a wait."

"Oh, that's nothing compared to some of the other things on the list. Some need reservations in advance."

"Yes, the sauna is rather booked these days. Ponies just waiting in line for ages for half an hour. That usually happens with the high demand treatments."

After the wait, Radiance was taken into a dim room lit by lavender-scented candles. A red cushioned bed sat at the center of the room surrounded by lilacs and hydrangeas. Her hooves quietly clicked on the cold floor as she approached the bed, lying down on her back comfortably. Aloe put a record onto the player in the corner, the crank ticking as the springs inside wound up to begin the spin of the turntable. A soft and relaxing melody drifted out from its speaker while a bucket of cold water was splashed onto a pile of steaming rocks, making a soft crackle and pop while the steam rose into the air. The room was set for a long rest of meditation, removing all other interference from the outside world.

None of the troublesome noise or thoughts existed inside these four walls, just the music, delightful scents, and a pure aura of calm. Taking a deep breath in Radiance began to drift towards unconsciousness. Every second she lulled closer and closer to sleep.

"Now just close your eyes and think of your happy place," said Aloe before finally closing the door behind her.

Her senses dulled becoming calmer and calmer. It was a feeling like being detached from her body and just letting everything go. Time slowly drifted away as Radiance finally entered her first deep sleep in a long while.