Jessica, I know that I am probably ten miles away from the bulls-eye, but here's my thought.
The glowing green lights, I thought was the Aurora Borealis. During this time, even today in some cultures, they were a sign of woe, danger and a terrible omen.
I hope that this link will be allowed here. Here are some pictures of the
Aurora. Take a look especially at the greenish ones. They remind me of this scene.
As for the rest of your questions, I have no clue, as I wondered them myself.