Creature World

Amira falls through a portal into a world full of humanoid creatures that shouldn't exist.

Amira’s eyes fluttered. She couldn’t remember anything for a few moments. There was a faint memory of falling, and then nothing. When her eyes opened, she saw she was in some kind of hospital. She sat up to look around.

 There were large clear windows with rounded tops that spanned the height of the wall across from her. The scenery was not familiar, but it was beautiful. A winding river flowed between large mountains. It sat in front of a bright blue sky that was scattered with lovely clouds. The room she was in was light colored with high arched ceilings. There were curtains hung around empty beds, and fancy looking equipment she was unfamiliar with.

 She scanned her body, but didn’t feel any problems. She was in no pain, and lifted the blanket to inspect herself. There were no casts, bandages, or bruises. She was perfectly fine. Except for how thirsty she just realized she was. Looking around she saw a clear glass of water by her bed. She reached for it, gave it a test sniff, and drank it quickly. Once the glass was empty she set it down on the table and wiped her chin dry. Then she heard footsteps coming towards her.

 She turned her head in time to see someone who was, to put it plainly, not human. His skin was light blue and his ears were fin shaped. He had wavy light green hair that went down to his shoulders, and a very lithe appearance. Tall and slim, but undeniably aquatic looking.

 At first she thought he was in a costume, but he looked so real. He was also much taller than anyone she’d ever met before. Maybe the size of a basketball player, but one of the taller ones. She didn’t really watch basketball, but humans that tall were few and far between.

 “Oh good, you’re awake.” He walked over to her, pulled up a chair to sit a few feet away, and smiled softly. “My name is Dr. Abalone. I will be your current health care provider. Are you feeling alright?” She looked at him bewildered for a moment.

 “I’m not sure…are you a tall blue fish man?” He chuckled at her comment and smiled. He found her reaction adorable. “I take it you’re not familiar with this area. What is your name miss?” She looked at him unblinking for a moment.

 He may be shocking to look at, but at least he was very polite. She still hadn’t blinked yet, but she shook her head gently in reply. “I am not familiar with this place…no, and I’m Amira.” He smiled reassuringly. “From the look on your face I imagine this is all very new to you. I know I may look alarming, but I assure you that I wish you no harm. Quite the opposite, actually.”

 He placed his slightly webbed hand over his heart as he spoke. At least, that’s where she assumed his heart was. He was clearly a medical professional. He also seemed to have a natural talent for calming people down. She decided being amiable was the best thing to do right now. Besides, maybe she’d get some information that would be useful.

 She still hadn’t gotten over whatever species this doctor is, but being shocked wasn’t going to get her anywhere. She composed herself briefly with a slight nod. “I’m not sure where I am or what’s going on, but I’ve definitely never seen anyone like you before. Can you tell me what happened?”

 He nodded ready to explain. “Of course. We get what you might call travelers from time to time. Sometimes they come from places similar to our own. Other times they come from places that are more suited for humans.”

She knit her brows confused by his words. So there are other humans here, but what does he mean better suited? “What does that mean? Like I can’t breathe the air? And what do you mean travelers? I don’t understand any of this. I just want to go home.”

 He paused for a moment before looking at her apologetically. “I’m very sorry to tell you, miss Amira. The portal seems to only work one way. But the good news is that the environment is habitable for you. It’s just much more dangerous if you’re not familiar and native with the flora and fauna. Humans are much more susceptible to toxins and whatnot.”

 It was a lot to take in. She was relieved she could breathe the air and drink the water though. But more importantly, what did he mean by portal? “What do you mean by portal? What is that?” She was clearly out of her depth but determined to figure out what was going on.

 He tilted his head in thought and blinked with sideways eyelids. “About a hundred years ago a medium sized portal appeared out of nowhere. At first, it did nothing but open in random locations and then disappeared again. But as we feared someone, ultimately, did come through.”

 “At first the elders weren’t sure of the best course of action. They tried sending her back, but it didn’t work, and then it was gone. The conclusion they came to was to integrate anyone into our society that came from the portal. They had no choice in coming or going, as we soon found out. Therefore, we shall provide them accommodation, and hopefully a new home.”

 “We always find individuals unconscious. Although, we don’t know why. I theorize that the experience of passing through the portal takes a great amount of energy which causes the individual to need great amounts of rest afterwards. Once anyone in need is found they are brought to me for examination, and healing if necessary.”

Amira looked down at her body again, confused if she’d actually gotten hurt. She had the strangest feeling that she had. She swore something happened to her ankle, but when she checked it earlier, it was fine. “When I was brought in, was I hurt?”

 He nodded gently. “You had a sprained ankle and some light bruising, but nothing serious.” She knew she was right. Her memory was still foggy, but her intuition told her even without proof. She didn’t see anything before, so she moved the blanket to inspect her ankle again.

 There was nothing there. Both of her ankles were perfectly fine, and she didn’t even see any bruises. How long had she been asleep? She looked back at the doctor. “Was I out long enough to fully heal?” He smiled at her holding in his chuckle this time.

 “No, you’ve only been asleep for a few days. I healed you.” He smiled at that last part and stood, gently walking towards the foot of her bed. “May I?” He held his right hand in the direction of her right foot.

 She nodded in approval even though she was unsure about what was about to happen. He lightly placed his hand over her ankle, and a soft light peeked out of the space between their skin. It felt warm and tingly. Overall, she found it to be a pleasant experience.

 A moment later the light faded, and he removed his hand. “Good news, you are completely healed!” He clasped his webby hands together in front of his chest and smiled. “I love a job well done.” That last part he said to himself.

 Amira was amazed at his ability. It seemed like magic, but if it was a different world then who knows what’s possible here? “Was that magic?” She couldn’t help it. She had to know how he did that.

 He perked up at her words. “Did you say magic? I’ve heard that word before. By any chance, are you from Earth?” She was caught a bit off guard by that and sat up a bit straighter.

 “Wait, didn’t you say there were humans here? Aren’t they from Earth?” He, in turn, was caught off guard by her lack of common knowledge. “Well, there are humans from many different places. Earth is just one habitat suitable for terrestrial life. I didn’t realize your region was so isolated, oh goodness.”

 Amira was dumbfounded. Maybe her planet wasn’t the most advanced, but this almost made her feel like she was from the past. She couldn’t help feeling awfully alone all of a sudden. “How do you know about my home? Have you met someone from there before?”

 He looked somber for a moment. “I did, but I’m afraid she’s passed on now.” She was disappointed to hear that, but at least she knew she wasn’t the only one who’s ever come from Earth. “You seem sad about it. I’m sorry if it’s a sensitive topic.”

 He gave her a halfhearted smile at her thoughtfulness. “It’s alright. Her name was Adelaide. She was the first one to come through the portal.”

 “She was given a home to a high standing official, and over time became a beloved member of the community. She passed just a few years ago. I must say It’s rather exciting that you’re from Earth as well. I think you’ll be very popular here.”

 She was surprised that the first person to come here was from Earth, but if that’s the pattern then she might never again meet another human from her home as long as she lives. She gulped at the thought but kept up hope that the other humans were like her.

 “If it’s all the same to you. Could you please not tell anyone I’m from Earth?” He tilted his head slightly. “Are you sure?” She nodded. “Yeah, I don’t really like dealing with too many people. I’d rather keep a low profile.”

 He understood and agreed to respect her wishes. “I will keep this information to myself. Please inform me of anything, at any time, you wish to remain private. Doctor patient confidentiality is very important.”

 “Also, I would like to take this opportunity to explain a few things about this place. We’ve established this as all new to you so I will give you some detail to help you with some of the culture shock.”

 “There are various clans throughout our lands. Each one belongs to a separate family. You might think they look like your native animals in some ways. I am an aquatic species. Others are Avian, mammalian, reptilian, or even fiendish.”

 “There are many families, and each clan is host to multiple species. Usually similar species live together, but it’s not mandatory. We also have animals like you. They’re not humanoid or sentient like us, but we pride ourselves on our respect for all living things.”

 “Like I said earlier, we get travelers. We’ve noticed for some reason only women come through our portal. But we have word from the Westlands that they have a portal that only transports men through!”

 “Anyway, this started happening about a hundred years ago. The elders were at a loss for what to do when lives became at risk. It didn’t take long to realize the travelers were going to keep coming so we developed a system.”

 “Those of us with the means and resources would offer respite to those who lost everything and needed food, shelter, and protection. Once I’m confident, they are healthy, and of sound mind, I will then speak with the elders. Afterwards there will be a meeting where it is decided which family they will live with.”

 He gestured towards her as he spoke, indicating she would be the newest person to be ‘re-homed’. She couldn’t help but feel a bit like an animal herself at the moment. Once he finished, she furrowed her brow and squinted at him. “So…I’ll be…like…a pet?”

 He made a face that seemed like he didn’t entirely agree with her, but he also didn’t argue. “Well, we don’t exactly see it that way, but I suppose it’s a similar concept. We do expect you to be a functional member of society, but your needs will be met no matter what.”

 He smiled in an attempt to reassure her. He had the same conversation quite a few times. Some took it better than others, but he was the first interaction individuals had in his world. He liked to make a good impression. He had a naturally calming presence that helped with the transition after all.

 She listened, but it all sounded pretty unbelievable. She was a bit worried about what was in store for her. He made living here sound pretty damn good. Almost too good. She was still suspicious, but what could she do right now? She decided to keep playing along.

 “You said there would be a meeting. What is that about?” He nodded. “Yes, the meeting. After we finish speaking, I will inform the Elders of your status. Don’t worry, I won’t tell them anything you don’t want me to.”

 “Once they’re updated, they will alert the proper families to come and speak with you this afternoon.” She raised her eyebrows slightly. “That seems pretty fast. That’s in just a few hours.”

  He looked at the clock on the wall to verify the time before smiling at her again. “We like to be efficient. Also, this area is temporary. It’s strictly for healing so it’s important to rotate those who have been properly cared for.”

 “The meetings are usually fairly quick, but there will be subsequent meetings periodically. We need to make sure you adjust well, and that the family you live with complements you well. If not, the proper adjustments will be made.”

 “If you don’t have any more questions, we can now move you to the much more comfortable waiting area. There will be food. I’m sure you’re hungry, and fresh clean clothes.” She looked down at what she was wearing. She assumed it was a hospital gown, but it was comfortable like a nightgown.

 The fabric was breathable, and she found it to be very similar to a wrap dress. It was a lovely light purple and secured tightly on her left side. “Oh, can I get my clothes back?” He nodded before standing up again.

 “Of course. They will be waiting for you in the next area. There will also be a selection of clothes we provide in your size. The clothes we find you in are tested for contaminants and then laundered if deemed safe. It’s very rare they’re not, but your measurements are taken, and there will be new clothes for you to choose from if you wish.”

 This whole place seemed too good to be true, but what choice did she have? She’d have to just wait and see. If she needed to escape, it was important to learn her surroundings. “Am I going to the waiting room now?”

 He walked over to the table beside her bed and pulled out a pair of slippers for her to put on. He set the shoes on the floor by her bed and stood up. “Unless you have any more questions or concerns?” She shook her head no before swinging her legs over the edge of the bed and slipped her feet into the shoes.

 “Alright then, if you will please follow me.” He waited for her to stand before leading her away from the beds. They exited through large, arched double doors that came to a point on top. The whole place looked so soft and elegant.

 They took a left, and the hallway they entered also had the same large windows on the left wall. The right wall displayed a row of closed doors. Dr. Abalone led her to the end of the hallway where they then took a right. The next hallway opened up into a large closed in courtyard.

 There was a round pavilion in the center that took up almost all the open space. The rest of the room was filled with luscious, beautiful plants. All kinds Amira had never seen before. Some were huge. Some were tiny.

 Some had flowers. Others were just leaves, but all of them made her jaw fall open in awe. The temperature was very nice. Warm, but not hot. A breeze flew by brushing her hair over her shoulder. She closed her eyes for a moment to feel it wash over her.

 They reached the other side moments later. She snapped her attention back to the next hallway. It was different from the others. The carpet was a vibrant red instead of the calming blue, and cream colors of the previous wing.

 The windows were smaller and more rectangular, and so were the doors. It was completely different from the other areas. The color scheme was red and gold. It was warm and elegant, but fierce at the same time.

 The Doctor stopped when he reached another set of double doors. These doors were bigger, and very fancy. The shape reminded her of the hospital windows. Rounded at the top but not pointed. They also had the most intricate and detailed carvings on them.

 Their beauty didn’t take away from their structure though. They still looked very thick and sturdy. It appeared they were made of solid gold, and there were dragons carved into them. They faced each other on either door. One was snarling while the other was peaceful. There were also a few different types of plants, but the carvings all flowed perfectly into each other.

 They were interwoven but not tangled. She noticed one particular vine seemed to be important. It was a large part of the carving, and the dragons were holding onto it. The door was beautiful but intimidating in its size and craftsmanshift. The doctor knocked and a moment later the doors opened revealing a tall, beautiful woman.

 She had a human skin tone, but Amira noticed she had dark blue horns coming out of the top of her head. She also had entirely blue eyes. There was no white in her eyes at all. She did have pupils, but the color faded from bright blue in the center to darker blue at the edges.

 It wasn’t as shocking as seeing the doctor for the first time, but she still wasn’t prepared for it. She thought the woman did look nice though. Her hair was a lovely dark red that fell to her shoulders in stylish layers.

 The doctor pointed his open hand at Amira. “Hello Ackri, this is Amira. She is our newest traveler. Please assist her as best you can.” Ackri turned to face her with a pleasant smile.

 “Of course. Please, right this way miss.” She stepped back slightly, opening the door wider while extending her hand to show the way. “We will take very good care of you.”