The Light in Aquala

They all stopped running and skidded to a halt, almost crashing into each other.

Everyone except Jaxx who immediately went running up to the insect who looked up at him and then they both looked up at the woman standing next to them.

She was absolutely beautiful and had the presence of someone with authority, mild and not haughty.

Her Neon Pink hair was just past her shoulders, and her outfit was graceful and understated. The loose white fabric flowed around her, perhaps made from a pure cotton with a satin finish and she had a thin belt made up of jewels around her waist. Her eyes held years of wisdom and seemed to be able to see right through them. Her face was pure white without a line or a wrinkle.

They watched the light being reflected from her gold and emerald dangling earrings, which were moving gently as she looked at each of the women, one at a time. There were purple and royal blue glowing colors coming off of her head, almost like pieces of fabric that was made out of lights, and there were pieces of glowing jewels set throughout her hair.

She had no Neon glow on her face, but her neck was glowing green and her hands had a green Neon glow too, even though her skin was as white as snow.

Rivia, Mara and Lena stood there with wide-eyes, not knowing what to say or do, but just staring in awe at her.

The cricket creature started singing its song again and then Jaxx and it wandered off towards a crystal-clear stream that was flowing behind the woman. The woman watched them go, then turned her attention back to the newcomers.

“Welcome to the Silver Grasslands. My name is Aekka and I am one of the guardians of this home. We are happy to have you here and have been observing you for quite some time.” She smiled warmly and spread her arms wide, in a welcoming gesture.

Rivia wasn’t sure how to take her greeting. “Thank you. My name is Rivia and this is Lena and Mara. What do you mean you have been observing us for quite some time?” She looked towards the others who also had a look of confusion on their faces.

“We saw the flash of light when the portal opened and we saw you arrive. You spotted us and started coming towards us. Before allowing you to approach, we had to make sure of what your motives were.

I sent Crece to you, so we could decide if you are worthy of making your way here. Without the little Creatch, there is no way anyone can reach us, no matter how long they walk for. Almost no way, that is.” Aekka explained as a cloud passed over her face briefly before continuing.

“Once it was decided that you were safe, then you were brought here by Crece’s golden wavelength and now I welcome you. It must all seem quite strange right now, but if you wish, I can explain to you tomorrow after you have washed up, eaten and had a good night’s sleep.”

Mara looked up at that and noticed that the sky was dark with millions of stars showing. It had happened suddenly, without warning and she was fascinated by the way the day instantly became night, something that was obviously specific to this planet.

The area around Aekka was still lit up like day and she realized that it was the *white light emanating from her, along with the Neon green glow that was enabling them all to see.

Lena had heard the words ‘wash’ and ‘sleep’ and was already heading towards Aekka with a big smile. “Thank you so much, you have no idea how wonderful that sounds. We would be delighted to be your guests and we truly appreciate your hospitality.”

Aekka smiled as she shook Lena’s outstretched hand and then Mara’s and Rivia’s hands as they approached.

She whistled to Crece, who immediately stopped playing a fun game of tag in the water with Jaxx and flew to her side.

“Please follow me and I will show you where you can sleep. Baths are being prepared for each of you and clean clothes have been placed on your beds. We will eat in an hour and I will send someone to bring you down to our eating hall.”

With that she turned, gesturing for them to follow, and walked towards the building so gracefully that she almost seemed to float.

Crece flew ahead with Jaxx in hot pursuit, his tail wagging and hitting all of the tall red and yellow flowers as he passed by. Aekka looked back as she walked, saying that it looks like Crece has made a best friend.

“His name is Jaxx and he is just like a big puppy when he feels safe and is relaxed. It is nice to see how at home he already is here. Noctaryn don’t usually adapt to changes so easily." stated Rivia as they all continued into the building through a twenty-foot high, solid wood door that was half a foot thick and reinforced with metal bindings.

“This has to be the most secure door I have ever seen.” commented Lena as she gazed up at it, passing through the slim opening along with the others. “Is this part of this world’s architectural design or is it for keeping out an army?” she continued, jokingly.

Aekka stopped suddenly, turned with a look of surprise, and said that it was for both before continuing ahead.

Mara thought it was very strange to be so worried about security if this was one of the safer worlds.

“Lena.” she whispered. “I’m starting to get a little nervous about this,” she continued as the big doors were pushed shut and locked by no less than four strong men. They were definitely muscular and had the serious bearing of what Mara imagined royal guards would have. “I don’t like the feeling of being trapped.”

Before Lena could answer, Aekka replied from the front of the line that they would be able to leave whenever they wanted and there was no need for concern. No one was a prisoner here.

Mara felt foolish and hoped she hadn’t offended their host.

Aekka then stopped and turned to smile at Mara. “I am not offended, I would feel exactly the same if I were in your situation.”

She then turned to Rivia and smiled gently. “Please make yourselves at home and enjoy your stay. Nia will lead you to your rooms now and I will see you in an hour.” With that she nodded her head slightly and continued down a large, wide hallway to the right.