Prompt: Write a short story about a man who discovers a magical portal
Response:

John had always been drawn to the strange anomalies that dotted the landscape of his small town. But deep down, he knew that there was nothing really mysterious or exciting about them. That is, until one day, when he stumbled upon a large, arcane-looking portal. Okay, so maybe there was a bit of excitement buried deep inside him after all.

Upon entering the portal, John found himself suddenly transported to an exotic land filled with towering forests, sparkling rivers, and soaring mountains. He was also immediately confronted by a menacing figure dressed in a flowing, black robe. The figure said nothing, but merely placed a hand on John’s shoulder and sent him on his way.

Since that fateful day, John has returned to the portal periodically, each time discovering something new and extraordinary about his new home. He’s even begun to refer to it as the “Magic Portal” and wouldn’t trade it for the world.