As they passed through the windows, in fact portals to other realms of reality as Chris now understood, they looked upon a magnificent scenery. A lush, exotic forest reminiscent of Mediterranean countries, basked in the warm sunlight of an eternal spring or summer. Wonderful beaches with rocks to climb and dive from, as well as yellow sand to lie in all day long dotted with seashells. And the woods looked amazing to step in, with rich fertile grounds. Indeed, Chris could see vines and olive trees grow in the distance, the roots digging in a back rich and fertile soil. Other trees laden with ripe fruits caught his eyes too. And in the distance, near a few little white clouds crossing the horizon, stood a palace with columns and Greek mosaics. This whole setting breathed of an eternal vacation and of the easiness of life, for who should be so lucky as to step onto this wondrous island.
"Here!" exclaimed Chris, forgetful of demanding more details to Beth Anne. "I want to go here!"
"You sure? Because..."
"Yes, I am! Please, send me there!"
"Okay," mumbled Beth Anne, pushing him through the portal, which vanished promptly.
It was his choice, after all. Not her fault he didn't ask for more details. But then again, she still hoped Circe would be nice to him sand that he would not do anything stupid.
Chris stumbled onto the forest floor. He was greeting by wonderful nature-rich scents. He started walking, taking all the many tree and plant species. Ferns, normal and arboreal, flowers, mushrooms trees,... It was all endless. Squirrels chattered and foxes darted away. Yet it was all so beautiful. Chris hoped he was heading towards the palace, or temple, but he was in no hurry to arrive. So when he glimpsed the palace through some trees, he ambled there at a leisurely pace, following a path that became paved as he neared the structure. The palace was indeed grand, made of marble of all colors and of gold, with humongous columns depicting different animals. Chris became frightened as he entered the shade of the temple and saw big cats inside:lions, tigers and panthers. But as he was backing away in comprehensible fright, a voice called out:
"Step closer, young mortal. My pets shall not harm you unless I will it so."
Chris stepped forwards and indeed the felines backed away. He could also see cats, dogs, parrots and even iguanas around. Upon a nice soft couch was sitting in a reclining position was a beautiful woman with dark wavy hair. Pretty young women were attending her, waving fans in her face, bringing her fruits and drinks and making her life pleasant overall.
"It's been a while since a young adventurer has come to these shores," she smiled.
"Who... Who are you...?" stammered Chris.
"I am the sorceress Circe. This island is my land. And these are my nymphs."
"Oh," said Chris.
He could remember the name but not much else. He should have listened more carefully in literature classes.
"Your island is very beautiful. Like you, in fact."
Circe smiled wider.
"What nice words. As a token of my gratitude, I will therefore give yu a choice."
"A choice?" said Chris, worried.
This did not look well at all.
"Yes. As you can see, I do not tolerate male on this island. Human males, that is. So here is my choice to you. You either become an animal, of your choice, and you might keep your sex if you so choose. Or you remain human, more or less, by becoming one of my nymphs. A virgin young woman. So. What shall it be? Note that if I had found rude in any way, I would have seduced you and given you a potion to transform you into a creature of my own choosing, at my own pleasure."
Chris was mortified. But he had to make a choice - and fast!