The Guardian Duel

They were drawn through a kaleidoscope of shimmering colors that felt like a cool wind against their skin on a warm day. The air that swept past their faces tasted salty and sweet at the same time, and when the creamy colors stopped gyrating, the sound of waves lapping rhythmically against the Atlantic shoreline soothed and relaxed their anxiety, a perfect landing, except for the over-crowded beach. A beach ball whizzed through Jonathan’s head—that jarred him back to his senses. “Welcome back to the real world,” he mumbled, stepping over a lady sprawled out on a big towel.