Deep inside the temple, novitiate priestess Nephinae kneels in prayer in the center of the ritual chamber. Golden braziers encompass each of the marble columns surrounding the room, lighting up most of the chamber and covering the room in warm oranges and dancing shadows. A magical incantation is carved directly into the stone surface of the room, constantly glowing blue with eldritch energy as she prays to her goddess.
"Oh Yiena, Goddess of Shelter, please... help us...."
The novice priestess gives a heartfelt plea as she kneels upon a silver rug, arms stretched out on the ground with the palms up in a reverent posture. She's dressed in a pure white vestment that covers her, her long blonde hair flowing free down the back. Her bare feet are crossed atop the smooth floor as she stares blankly into the darkness where the light of the braziers cease.
"I pray you will hear me," she begs, tears forming in her eyes as she recalls the tragedy in her kingdom. She knows the goddess is there, after all, only divine power makes it possible for Nephinae to cast the healing spell that she recently learned. But ever since the orcs invaded, people have found less reason to be faithful, feeling little support from the higher order. However, as a newly vested priestess-in-training, Nephinae still feels devoted with all her heart. She continues her prayer, "Please, send a hero to save your people."
As the elven girl prays, she doesn't notice that the incantation in the floor has started glowing again, a faint blue aura emanating from beneath her feet. Further, despite her faith, Nephinae is shocked by what happens next. The elf hears a gentle voice in her head, a divine voice speaking in the language of magic itself.
<I hear you, my child.>
Nephinae suddenly stops praying, looking around the room. "M-Mistress Talia? Jaeda?"
<No, I am not they. My name is Yiena. I am the patron deity of your land.>
Nephinae trembles as she realizes it wasn't someone playing a trick on her, never expecting to actually hear the voice of the goddess herself.
<My child, forgive me for failing to defend your lands from this threat,> Yiena apologizes sadly, <but I had to gather my power.> As far as Nephinae knows, no one, EVER, has actually heard the voice of the goddess. But something in her heart, her soul, assures the elf that she is hearing Yiena speak.
"M-My G-Goddess! I'm so s-sorry!" Nephinae blubbers, trying not to fall down onto the floor in prostration. But the voice sounds amused in her head.
<Do not apologize, my child. It is I who failed to show myself in time to prevent such suffering. You were loyal to me, and for that I shall protect you.>
Yiena's words comfort Nephinae, giving her renewed courage. She wipes her face as she nods. "I will do whatever you ask of me, Goddess! I will keep believing in you."
<Yes, my child. I will summon a hero from another world to aid you. Listen well, Novitiate Priestess Nephinae. Will you serve your goddess and provide as a companion to my champion?>
"A hero from another world... Yes!" Nephinae agrees immediately, eager to help in any way she can.
<Very good, my child. A human man, a soldier, will be summoned to the chamber. Even though he is from another world, his power will be immense. Use him to rally your people and lead them against the orcs. Your efforts will be vital in stopping their invasion of your homeland.>
"Of course! I swear on my life!" Nephinae swears without hesitation.
<It is done,> Yiena says with finality. But then suddenly, she adds one last addendum. <Oh, he's going to have lots of baby-making sex with you, try to endure, my