She stood atop the crumbling stone steps that led to nowhere, the jasmine scented wind blowing her hair and flimsy gown.

He crouched at the foot, blood dripping from a deep gash across his forearm sweat flowing freely down a pain encrusted face. He called to her. She did not hear or did not react.

He inhaled deeply and started the climb. As he reached the third or fourth step those below crumbled away, negating retreat. He called her name again. She smiled gently and he found more within himself to continue the infinite climb and claim his goddess.