Sounds to me like you're heading in the right direction.
Asking questions during meditation may not result in answers that you can see or hear; there are many forms of perception, and on an energetic level information can come in many forms.
Did you know that the octopus has the same kinds of cells in its skin as we have in our eyes? One theory is that, because of this, the octopus 'sees' with its skin. Exploring and perceiving spiritual/energetic reality, in my experience, involves a different set of senses. The most clear and profound perceptions, for me, occur in a way that is difficult to describe; words are insufficient. Kind of the way I'd imagine it would be difficult to describe the experience of 'seeing' with one's skin.
When I'm focusing exclusively on spiritual/energetic reality, I too ensure that my space is well protected. When I first started doing this, for the most part I entered my protected space only with the intent to observe, and I did my best to carry no expectations with me other than the expectation that I would learn something. It helped me a LOT when I learned how to observe without mentally describing what I was perceiving. The descriptions can be made later; while I'm exploring spiritual reality, words just get in the way of the experience.
As you continue to explore, I'm sure your spirit community will reveal themselves to you.
I hope you'll continue to share your experiences with us here, k. Pretty exciting stuff!