**A Boiling Isles Invitation**

Six months had passed since Belos' defeat, and Luz Noceda was walking home from school with her friend Vee on a sunny Friday afternoon. As they strolled along, Luz asked Vee if Masha, Sam, and William were free to hang out. "Hey, I was thinking, Amanda's going out of town this weekend, and I was wondering if Masha, Sam, and William are up for something," Luz said, her golden brown eyes sparkling with excitement. Vee smiled, her expression mischievous. "Actually, Masha and I are going out on a date, so I won't be able to join you guys." Luz's face lit up with a smile. "That's great! I'm glad you two are spending time together. I was thinking of heading to the Demon Realm to help them rebuild the isles. It's been a while since the defeat, and I think they could use some assistance." As they approached the Noceda residence, Luz noticed a group of friends gathered inside. She quickened her pace, curiosity getting the better of her. Upon entering, they were greeted by Camila, who was chatting with Amity Blight, Willow Park, Skara, and Viney. Luz's eyes widened as she took in the gathering. "What's all the commotion about?" she asked, her voice cheerful. Amity turned to Luz, a calm smile on her pale face. "Hexside's out for the weekend, and we were thinking of inviting you to a Boiling Isles lake lacuna day, if you're not busy." Luz's eyes lit up, and she nodded enthusiastically. "That sounds amazing! I'd love to join you guys." The group erupted in cheers and excited chatter. Viney, with her confident body language and playful expression, advised Luz, "Don't bring a swimsuit, okay?" Luz's brow furrowed in confusion. "Uh, what? Why not?" Willow, with her open and inviting demeanor, chimed in, "We'll explain later, Luz." Vee, who had been quietly observing the conversation, said, "I should get going, I have to get ready." Luz turned to her, "Wait, Vee, you're a basilisk, can't you just shapeshift into something?" Vee rebuffed, her expression casual, "No way, I'm not shapeshifting in public, Luz." As the group made their way to the Remodeled house in the forest that Camila had bought, Luz couldn't help but wonder what was going on. They arrived at the house, and Luz turned the knob on the portal door. It powered up, and a speaker voice boomed, "Welcome to the Boiling Isles, please watch your step." As they stepped through the portal, Luz asked again, "Seriously, why did you guys tell me not to bring a swimsuit?" Amity explained, her golden eyes sparkling, "The Boiling Isles lake rules have 'optional clothing'." Luz's eyes widened, and she raised an eyebrow. "Optional clothing? You mean, like, nude beaches?" Skara, with her expressive face, chimed in, "Well, when you put it that way, Luz...yes. And there are hot springs near the lake, too." Luz's curiosity was piqued, and she asked, "So, you're saying we might see some...ahem...natural scenery?" Willow nodded, her green eyes shining. "And we'll have the lake all to ourselves. It'll be a blast!" Skara added, her voice energetic, "We're all swimming naked, Luz. It's going to be a wild time!" Luz's face went bright red as she processed the information. She couldn't help but wonder what she had gotten herself into. With a nervous laugh, she followed her friends into the unknown, ready to take on whatever adventures the Boiling Isles had in store for her.