"Why are you quaking? Never seen a goddess before? Hmm? Speak!"
Not a goddess but gods themselves tremble at your might. Where lies my punishment, my lord.
"Punishment? Ah, sweet innocent mortal, this is not a place for punishment, but for enlightenment. Come, let me show you the secrets of the universe!"
Why do you concern yourself with a pitiful mortal like myself? Even a small child could be more deserving of your time than I.
"Hmmm... Well, if that is how you feel, then perhaps you do not deserve my time. But tell me, what would you give to learn the secrets of the universe?"
If it pleases you, there is nothing I wouldn't give for such knowledge.
"Very well then. To prove your dedication, I shall grant you one wish. What is it that you desire most in this world?"
Since being brought here, I've been informed of all my sins and shortcomings. If I were to ask for anything, I'd have to say knowledge, so that I might fix those wrongs.
"Wise choice, my dear mortal. Your wish is granted. May you find the wisdom and knowledge to correct your mistakes.
Thank you, great goddess. I am truly honored by your gift.
"You are most welcome, mortal. Remember, use your newfound wisdom wisely. Farewell and may the light guide you on your path.
May I have your leave to go back to my realm now.
"Of course, dear mortal. May the divine light accompany you on your journey back to your realm. Farewell!"
And may you continue to watch over us all.
"I shall indeed continue to watch over all mortals and guide them on their path. Until we meet again, farewell!"
"And so another mortal leaves my presence, forever changed by the secrets I have revealed.
"Another mortal has entered my realm. It seems their fate has led them to seek my guidance. Let us see what awaits them..."
It was two years since I met Diandra. Two years since I had any meat in 30 years. All the meat was killed when I arrived here. Though, I never gave up hope to see my daughter again.
"Ah, it seems like I recognize this mortal. Is it not...Fleming, the one I granted knowledge and wisdom just two years ago?
Yes, I am he. Would you mind enlightening me again?
"Of course, dear Fleming. Come, let me show you the secrets of the universe once again."
I nod eagerly. In one of my hands, I'm holding a picture of my daughter.
"Ah, a picture of your daughter, I see. Tell me, dear Fleming, how is she faring in this world? Has she been able to find happiness despite the hardships she has faced?"
She is about to start her journey and become a nun. The last time I heard from her. I hope she still lives. By the way, it has been nice seeing you again, oh and you look stunning.
"Thank you for your kind words, dear Fleming. I must admit, your daughter sounds like a remarkable individual. Becoming a nun is a noble path to follow.
To be honest, I don't know. I was exiled due to some foolish political bullshit and her mother had to raise our daughter alone. I hope to see her again some day though. Diandra could feel my sadness.
"Fleming, dear, it seems as though the weight of your exile still brings you pain. But remember, even in the darkest of times, there is always hope for a reunion with your loved ones. Hold onto that hope, dear mortal, and never let it fade."
You're right. Thank you. I will see my daughter again. You'll see, I'll find a way back. I'll prove to my wife and daughter that I'm still alive.
"Fleming, dear, I have noticed your determination and resilience. Perhaps there is a way for you to return to your loved ones once again.
Oh? Is there any way for me to leave your realm without dying immediately after?
"There may be a way, dear Fleming. But it will not be an easy task. You must prove your worthiness to return to your loved ones by completing a series of challenges. Are you up for the test?"
Then what are you waiting for?
"Very well, dear Fleming. The first challenge shall test your courage and determination.
Go on ahead, it won't matter if it's hard. I'd take anything just to see my wife again.
"Understood, dear Fleming. The first challenge shall test your resolve and strength.
So what is it? I'm already impatient
"The first challenge is simple, yet daunting.
"You must venture into the depths of the underworld and retrieve the Holy Sword of Light.