Amala's Heritage

Hidden Treasure

Salama woke up excitedly, her heart pounding with anticipation for the day ahead. She double-checked to ensure she had packed her luggage for the trip. She brought along the blueprints and designs from their previous projects. As she was finalizing her preparations, her phone rang. It was the company's driver, Mr. Ingham. "Are you ready to be picked up, Salama? I'm waiting outside your apartment," he said. Looking at her packed bags, Salama replied, "Yes, I'm all set. I'll be right down." Rushing to grab her things, she felt excited for the important day ahead.

Andrea hurriedly got dressed, opting for her most comfortable outfit. Once she confirmed that she had all her essentials, she dashed to the nearby store to pick up a bag full of snacks for her upcoming long drive. Her handbag was overflowing with sour, spicy, and sweet snacks.

Salama carefully explained the route to the driver, ensuring he understood how to reach Andrea's apartment. Meanwhile, Kainoa, who resided quite a distance away, embarked on a bus journey to join Andrea at her apartment. Just as the driver executed a turn, they caught sight of both Andrea and Kainoa standing patiently by a bus stop.

Andrea and Kainoa settled into the comfortable car seats as they journeyed to Kanan. Mr. Ingham provided a brief overview of the trip, informing them that the drive was approximately 340 kilometres and would take about 5 hours to reach their destination. He assured them to relax and said he would point out any interesting sights along the way. The group set off, ready for the adventure that lay ahead.

Kainoa put on a soothing playlist, the gentle melodies filling the car and creating a relaxed atmosphere. Andrea and Salama chatted away, catching up on recent events and sharing their excitement for the upcoming trip. As the car glided down the highway, they laughed and reminisced, their voices blending harmoniously with the music.

Ingham slowed down his car as they approached the beautiful water. The grasslands had transformed into a breathtaking sight as the river elegantly flowed through the landscape. "Take a look at the place on the edge of the river," Ingham pointed out, "as it converges, you see the place it cordoned off and the buffer zones. There's a treasure hidden there."This caught Kainoa's attention. "Treasure? What treasure?" he asked eagerly.

The car fell into a peaceful silence as they all pondered the mystery of the hidden treasure. Salama, Andrea, and Kainoa exchanged curious glances, trying to comprehend the gravity of Mr. Ingham's words. The notion of a treasure more valuable than gold and diamonds seemed surreal, yet the sincerity in the driver's voice hinted at something remarkable. "Ingham, what do you mean by a treasure hidden here?" Salama inquired, her curiosity piqued. With a knowing smile, 

Mr. Ingham began unravelling the tale of the elusive treasure as the car continued its journey along the picturesque landscape. "It's a treasure so extraordinary that its worth surpasses material riches," Mr. Ingham elucidated. It is said to possess the power to bestow great prosperity and harmony upon those who discover it, but only those with pure intentions may look at its splendour." 

Thousand of years ago, this place was filled with drought, and a girl came and changed everything. She prayed intensely, asking for the river to flow borderless, limitless and endless, and free. Her prayers were so pure and sincere that they moved the powers that be, and the river began to flow again, bringing life and prosperity to the land. From that day on, the people of this place have revered and respected the land, recognizing the girl's selfless act. The legend of the girl and her prayer has been passed down through generations, and it is believed that those who understand and honour her legacy may find the true treasure of prosperity and harmony in this very land.

As Salama, Andrea, and Kainoa listened intently, Mr. Ingham continued, "It's the most beautiful coral reef; it's the colours of the rainbow." Kainoa's eyes widened in amazement at the revelation. "A coral reef?" he echoed, his mind racing with images of vibrant underwater ecosystems. "Yes," Mr. Ingham affirmed, "this hidden treasure is not of material wealth but of natural beauty and wonder." The reef, teeming with life and vibrant colours, represented the power of pure intentions and deep connection to Iris, just as the girl's act had done centuries ago.

Salama eagerly asked, "I'm curious; what's the name of this beautiful river we're admiring?" Ingham smiled knowingly, "Ah, the river's name is quite special. It connects to your name, Salama. It's a reflection of your name. You see,  the Girl's name was Amala, and the name of the river is  Amala's River."