As the first rays of summer sunlight filtered through the window, casting a warm golden glow across the room, Lightning stirred, slowly drifting into consciousness. Her surroundings were unfamiliar, the soft embrace of a comfortable bed beneath her feeling strangely alien. Blinking away the haze of sleep, she sat up abruptly, her heart pounding with confusion.

This wasn't Amy's house. No familiar trinkets were adorning the room, and no scent of freshly baked pastries lingered in the air. Finding herself in the familiar bed of the temple she was addressed—with a heavy sigh Lightning pushed herself upright releasing a few cracks in her shoulders then swinging her legs over the edge of the bed, her resolve softening with each moment.

Awaiting servants sprang into action. With silent efficiency, they attended to her needs, even when she hadn't said anything at all. It was obvious she forgot that Eden had a schedule for everything.

The sound of running water filled the chamber as one servant prepared a luxurious bath, steam rising invitingly from the surface.

Water spilled over the limestone pool, filling the air with the intoxicating scent of lavender and jasmine. In the corner, a rock waterfall featured a steady stream of water into the tub. Smooth marble adorned the walls and floors, polished to a mirror-like sheen that reflected the warm glow of the sunlight streaming through the open room as steam rose.

'Being on the surface reminds me why I never found such luxury appealing.'

As Lightning stepped into the soothing warmth of the bath, she felt the tension in her muscles begin to melt away. The fragrance mingled with the steam, enveloping her tranquility of the water's sound. It was a rare moment of respite amidst the chaos of her thoughts.

Letting out a sigh dipping her head back into the water soaking her quills—floating on her back and allowing herself to drift. Glimpsing up at the ceiling, a painted fresco above displays the stories of the beginning of Eden.

Closing her eyes, allowing herself to become immersed. The water's zero permitted gravity the weight to be let off her back

Once she emerged from the bath, refreshed, her servants were ready with her chosen attire. Surveying herself in the mirror, clad in garments befitting her status, yet this climbing feeling couldn't be helped—a sense of detachment.

On the surface, her clothes were practical and casual. The option of mixing and matching was almost a lost feeling. Being back in her formal attire felt nearly restrictive given the significant contrast in the material used in Eden compared to the Surface.

Gazing out amongst her village a tired expression fell on her face.

—

Outside, the world seemed to be awakening with a renewed energy. Birds sang melodious tunes, their chirps mingling with the rustle of leaves in the breeze. The distant hum of activity from the village below hinted at a bustling day ahead.

As the morning sun peeked over the horizon, casting its golden light across the land, Lightning dashed through the winding paths towards the grand outdoor pavilion that served as the cafeteria centered between each land. The air was filled with the crisp scent of pine as morning dew dripped from their branches.

Approaching the entrance of the pavilion, Lightning marveled at its grandeur. Greek columns rose majestically, supporting a decorative ceiling adorned with intricate patterns. Lanterns hung from the rafters, casting a warm glow that danced across the dark wood floors.

Berry bushes lined under each column for decoration with a gravel path leading to the entrance with inviting warmth.

She entered the spacious dining area, greeted by the sight of five majestic thrones-like chairs positioned in front of a lavish buffet spread. Each chair represented one of the Elemental Holders, a reminder of balance and harmony.

The buffet gleamed with an array of tantalizing breakfast options of this week's voted choice, from fresh fruits and Dosa. Lightning's mouth watered as she approached the feast, her stomach rumbling in anticipation.

Poor girl almost forgot how much Eden spoiled her.

Others started to slowly trickle in. Many from different lands by how they dressed and talked. Many even were of the same mobian animal race as their Holder.

First came the Fire representatives, their presence announced by the warm glow that seemed to surround them. They strode in confidently, dressed in hues of red and orange that mirrored the wrapped flames of their Holder. Mainly mobians that could withstand desert climates. Their voices crackled with energy as they exchanged hearty greetings, their laughter ringing out like the crackling of a bonfire on a cool evening.

Next came the Earth delegates, grounded and steady in their demeanor. They moved with the grace of mountains, their attire adorned with earthy tones and natural textures. Given their Holders are twins it made sense to be seen in pairs. As they entered, they exchanged nods of recognition with those around them, their voices deep and resonant like the rumble of a distant thunderstorm.

Following closely behind were the Water emissaries, their arrival heralded by the gentle sound of flowing streams. They glided into the gazebo with fluid movements, dressed in shades of blue and turquoise that shimmered like the surface of a tranquil lake. Scaly and humid creatures. Their voices were melodious and soothing, carrying the rhythm of waves crashing against the shore.

Lastly, the Air envoys arrived, breezing in with an airy lightness that seemed to defy gravity. They wore garments that billowed and danced with every movement, mirroring the ever-changing patterns of the sky. Birds always had the fastest commute. Their voices were as light and airy as a gentle breeze, carrying snippets of conversation like whispers in the wind.

As Lightning sat amidst the bustling breakfast scene, she couldn't shake the feeling that all eyes were on her. Whispers and glances followed her every move, causing a knot of unease to form in the pit of her stomach. Unaccustomed to such scrutiny, she shifted uncomfortably in her seat, the weight of their collective gaze bearing down on her.

She tried to brush off the feeling, focusing instead on her meal and the rhythmic chatter around her. But the whispers persisted, growing louder and more insistent with each passing moment. Lightning's discomfort deepened, a sense of vulnerability settling over her like a heavy cloak.

Just as she felt on the verge of retreating into herself, a familiar voice broke through the haze of unease. "Mind if I join you, Lita?"

Relief flooded through the Lightning Holder as Rahki took the seat in front, her presence a comforting shield against the prying eyes of the crowd. With her easy smile and contagious energy, she effortlessly shifted the focus away from the critics, drawing attention to their lively conversation and shared laughter.

Typically neither Elemental Holders are supposed to address each other by their real names for the sake of the Heralds possibly being near. Yet given none has seen the Heralds even need food to function despite being of some organic nature there was no cause for concern for them appearing at meal times.

Rakhi's presence exuded a vibrancy that seemed to ignite the air around her. With fur the color of molten flame, she bore the regal stripes of her tiger heritage. Her gaze, piercing and intense, was framed by striking blue eyes that seemed to sparkle with an inner fire, reflecting both her fiery spirit and her gentle wisdom.

Around her ears, she wore delicate lotus ties, their petals a vibrant contrast against the rich red of her fur. Each tie is braided. Despite her imposing appearance, there was a warmth and kindness in Rakhi's demeanor that drew others to her like moths to a flame.

"So, Lightning," Rakhi began, her eyes sparkling with curiosity, moving her flowing saree, crafted from silk adorned with Eden patterns by the lush flora and fauna of her homeworld,  "How was the surface vacation? Any exciting adventures?"

Lightning chuckled softly, grateful for Rakhi's ability to lighten the mood. "Oh, you know, the usual," she replied, taking a sip of her tea. "Watch from afar, don't get involved, and return safe and sound."

Retreating to her plate of food. Judging by the selection it appeared that Rakhi got her vote for food this time.

Rakhi glanced over at Lita, noticing the distant look in her eyes as she recounted her time on the surface. "Lita, you seem a bit distracted," she remarked with a playful grin. "Did you encounter any particularly captivating storms up there?"

Lita's gaze snapped back to the present, and she hastily shook her head. "Oh, no, nothing like that," she replied, her voice slightly faltering. "Just the usual routine, you know."

But Rakhi wasn't convinced. "Hmm, I don't know," she said teasingly, bangles around her wrists of polished brass gently tinkling when leaning in closer. "There's something in your expression that tells me there's more to the story."

Lita shifted uncomfortably in her seat, hesitating for a moment before finally relenting. "Well, okay, maybe I did meet someone," she admitted, her cheeks flushing slightly. "But it's not a big deal."

Rakhi's eyes lit up with curiosity. "Aha! So there is a story after all," she exclaimed, the excitement palpable. "Tell me, what's this guy like? Is he as mysterious and intriguing as the storms you chase?"

"We didn't have much time together anyway, and even if we did, there's no way he'd accept what I am," Lita stated, slouching in her seat.

Rakhi's expression softened, sensing the weight of Lita's words. "I see," she murmured sympathetically. "It sounds like there's a lot on your mind, Lita. Just know that whatever you're going through, you don't have to face it alone. I'm here."

Lita smiled at Rakhi with a thankful expression. "I know I can. By the way," giving a sudden grin, "Has Calder still been sending you those lotus seeds?"

Rakhi rolled her eyes in disgust, "That egotistical gecko never stops pulling my tail."

—

Lita's workspace was nestled within the heart of the temple, a chamber alive with the crackling energy of lightning and the hum of raw power. The walls were adorned with carvings depicting storms and bolts of lightning, their jagged lines pulsating with a faint, ethereal glow.

A circular dais of polished marble stood at the center of the chamber, where Lita conducted her commune with her attendants. Runes etched into the surface.

Surrounding the dais were clusters of crystal formations, their surfaces sparkling with electricity that danced and arced between them in mesmerizing patterns.

Above, a domed ceiling stretched overhead, its surface adorned with intricate mosaics depicting thunderclouds and bolts of lightning that seemed to crackle with life. Lanterns hung from golden chains, casting a warm, flickering light that danced across the chamber like distant lightning on the horizon.

In one corner of the chamber, a series of tall windows offered glimpses of the stormy skies outside, their panes rattling with the rumble of distant thunder. Lita often found interest in watching the tempest rage beyond the safety of the village border.

Lita sighed heavily as one of her servants placed yet another stack of papers on her desk, the weight of her responsibilities pressing down on her like a leaden cloak. She glanced wearily at the parchment, filled with reports and requests that seemed to multiply.

She stared at the endless stream of paperwork debating on possibly just dumping it all in the pool. Letting out a sigh casting her gaze out amongst the village below, where life carried on in its rhythm, far removed from the confines of her duties.

She watched villagers go about their daily routines, their laughter, and chatter drifting up to her like echoes from another world. The sight filled her with a bittersweet longing, reminiscent of her childhood.

It was nice while it lasted, Lita pushed it aside, reminded once again of the weight of her responsibilities.

With a heavy heart, Lita turned back to her work, pushing aside her desires and focusing on the task at hand.