It's been 5 days since they arrived in Luchland and Aurora couldn't remember a time when she was this happy and relaxed. She found another side of her; a side that could smile all day and joke around with the people around her. She knew it was because of her friend. Offering to house Sasha is turning out to be one of the best decisions she'd ever made. She was thankful for it. And she made that clear to her companion.
"Truly, Sash. Thank you for bringing me with you. I've never been this light-hearted in a very long time." Or ever, she thought.
"You don't have to mention it, Ar. I'm the one most thankful here. You really saved my butt when you offered me housing, you know? I imagine myself still out on the streets if not for you. So, thank you."
Smiling to each other, the two women knew that they found a great friend in one another.
"So, we still have 2 more days till we go back to reality. I really don't want to go back though." Groaning, Sasha sorrowfully said this.
They were currently relaxing in a gazebo within their current accommodation. This time, it's a castle so grand, it's fit for a king. And it seems it really was for a king. They're staying at the summer castle of the last king that ruled this land.
The place was more beautiful than the ones they saw thus far; complete with towers and a garden in the middle with various gazebos and ponds. The area was indeed for royalty. Even their room was astonishing; with a queen-sized bed and a spacious walk-in closet that can be easily used as another bedroom. One can just imagine how the people of the old times lived because they are living it now.
"I agree. This land is the most beautiful place I've seen." Aurora said wistfully.
Sasha suddenly stood up and said, "Then, let's not go back! Let's stay here. We can easily find work here. With your reputation and my charming personality, no one would dare reject us."
That made Aurora laughed. "Of course we can't Sash. You still must finish your internship and I have my research. We can't just uproot ourselves like that. Metropolis might not be a haven like this, but it has amenities that will further our careers in our field." Aurora stated kindly. Even though inside, she wished she could stay, but their reality is not here and they both know it.
"Ugh. Why do you have to be right all the time?"
"Because one of us needs to be." Ara cheekily replied.
Laughing, Sasha could only agree.
"Well, then. Let us continue forth our limited journey through paradise. Shall we, My Lady?" Sasha said bowing and mimicking a lady of the court.
Ara played along and curtsied. "I believe we shall, My Lady"
Walking side-by-side, the two women went back inside the castle to prepare for their next stop.
For their sixth day, they're going to a place called the Arch of the Gods. The area is made of giant pillars of stones forming a circle and at the middle, stood a gigantic stone with carvings in the old language. It's a sacred place of worship during the old times. It's where the priests and priestesses of old would communicate with the gods. So, the surrounding area is full of temples. The place is still held sacred by the locals, so tourists are asked to wear appropriate attire when visiting here.
They changed into robes that looked Greek-like clothing that was worn long ago. Aurora quite liked it because it was light and airy. They were ushered to temples barefoot since it was also required. She felt very peaceful in this place. It seems not only is her heart light but also her soul. It was a new sensation for her and she enjoyed it very much.
"I could imagine myself as a priestess of the gods. It's so peaceful here, I feel it's where I belong" Sasha whispered to her.
"I know what you mean. It's amazing how anyone could leave this place. It takes an iron will to do so." Ara replied absentmindedly.
Sasha just looked at her. She knew that if anyone has that kind of will, it's Ara. Though, she just kept quiet and savored the moment.
**********
"Ooh. I am so exhausted. And I don't mean just physically. I think I'll just take a nap for a while. How about you, A?"
"You go on and rest. We have 2 hours before dinner. I'll just walk around for a bit more."
"Okay, but be back before dinner, okay? Or I'll eat all those pies. Take care" Sasha said while yawning
Shaking her head and chuckling, Ara thought there's no doubt that Sasha would do just that.
"Alright. See you later" she waved to her friend and started for the forest. Since their hotel is nearby a forest, Ara decided to just stroll there. Without any real direction in mind, she went in. She was enjoying the quiet and absently strolling that Aurora didn't see the sign stating the area she was going to was off-limits to tourists.
Usually, she wasn't this absentminded. She never realized this one small action will change her life forever.