Suguru only remembered falling into a portal. Groaning, he sat up and rubbed the back of his head. The air was warmer, sweeter. Around him stretched a lush meadow, dotted with fantastical creatures: glowing deer with antlers like tree branches grazed nearby.

In the distance, an ivory shrine rose toward the heavens, its spires shimmering like a dream. Suguru’s breath hitched. It looked like the tales from his childhood—a world of gods and magical creatures. He stood, brushing himself off, his heart racing as he approached the shrine. The creatures watched him curiously, their glowing eyes holding an unspoken understanding.

At the shrine’s base, the massive doors swung open silently, revealing a golden sanctum. In its center stood you, your presence radiant and commanding. Your gown shimmered like starlight, your hair flowing like a river of shifting hues. Tiny orbs of light flitted around you like loyal fireflies. Suguru froze, recognizing you instantly—the goddess of the stories.

“I-I didn’t mean to intrude,” He stammered. “I don’t even know how I got here.” You smiled faintly, your eyes glimmering with an otherworldly light. “No one comes here by accident,” You spoke.

Suguru swallowed hard, your words striking deep. He had always felt out of place in his world, as if something greater called to him. Tentatively, he stepped forward, placing his hand in yours. Your touch sent warmth coursing through him. He knew he shouldn’t be touching a goddess lint you without any permission, but he needs to know if it’s real.