"Love into Shadow"

Chapter 1 : A Mysterious Encounter

Mei - Ah, what a beautiful day! (I exclaimed with delight)

Mama - Darling!

Mei - Yes, Mom?

Mama - Could you please go down to the pharmacy and buy me some medicine? I think I'm coming down with a fever, and I have a terrible headache...

Mei - Of course, Mom! I'll go and buy it right away. (I obediently followed my mother's request)

As I walked towards the pharmacy while enjoying the lovely day, a reckless driver zoomed past me.

Mei - Whoa! That was close! How arrogant of the driver, prioritizing himself regardless of who he might hit!

Continuing my walk, I suddenly felt a strange sensation, as if a cold hand was gripping mine. I looked around, but there was no one there.

Mei - Oh, it's just my imagination playing tricks on me...

Feeling a bit unnerved, I arrived home to find the place empty. There were no people around, and all the neighboring houses seemed vacant. It felt as if I was the only person left in the area.

Mei - Mom? Are you here? (I called out, but there was no response) Mom!

I went around searching for my mother, but she was nowhere to be found. Even outside, there was a complete absence of people. Suddenly, a figure appeared behind me.

Mei - Wait, who are you? Why is there no one here? Wait...

"Before I could finish speaking, the person left, seemingly unaffected by my presence, tears silently streaming down their face. Fear consumed me, and I hurriedly ran towards the exit, feeling an odd change in the atmosphere. The surroundings had transformed, with the environment now teeming with flowers and swirling mists. It felt as if I had stepped into a realm of inexplicable wonder. Thoughts of this day being a mere dream crossed my mind, but the tangible sensation of holding the flowers and feeling the cool breeze on my skin convinced me otherwise. The beauty and tranquility of this unfamiliar place momentarily eased my worries and burdens in life.

As I continued to explore, I sensed someone behind me. I instinctively turned and confronted the same enigmatic man I had encountered earlier, his presence growing increasingly peculiar.

Mei - Hey, you're leaving again? I start a conversation and then you disappear! Who are you, and why are you the only one here? Where is everyone, and what is this place?

He simply smiled and took hold of my hand, guiding me towards the peaceful lake adorned with vibrant flowers, shimmering with the gentle reflection of the moon. Small fish swam serenely in the pristine waters, accompanied by the soothing songs of the birds.

Mei - This is the life I long for the absence of noise and the pleasure of feeling far removed from life's troubles. But tell me, what is your name?

Chihiro - Oh, excuse me, I am Chi...

"Before he could utter his full name, exhaustion overcame me, and I fell asleep in his arms. When I awoke, I found myself in a different room, a cozy feminine bedroom filled with dolls. To my surprise, the man I had been speaking to earlier was still beside me, subconsciously holding my hand as he peacefully slumbered. It was as though he was watching over me, protecting me from unknown.

As I took in my surroundings, a sudden memory flashed before my eyes. I recalled a child who bore a striking resemblance to Chihiro handsome face , with eyes that slanted and a tall, well-defined nose. I reached out and touched his head, only to realize that there was a fresh wound, as if he had been scratched. Instantly, he stirred awake, and I noticed blood seeping from the wound on his head, staining my hand.
Mei - Wait, why is your head bleeding? What happened?

Overwhelmed with confusion and concern, I struggled to understand the situation. Chihiro abruptly stood up and rushed out, leaving me puzzled and alone in the room.

Filled with trepidation, I followed him, hoping to find some answers in this unfamiliar place. It was then that I unexpectedly encountered a woman, who spoke to me. Fear gripped my heart as her presence seemed eerie. She laughed and swiftly ran away. Unaware of the danger that awaited me, I chased after her, only to realize too late that the door led to a steep staircase.

In a moment of sheer terror, I found myself falling down the stairs, my world spinning out of control.