Wader the Frog
Wader and Scid emerged from the Tor of Shadows, blinking in the bright sunlight. The path ahead was now clear—a beautiful valley stretched out before them, with a shimmering stream winding through it. The winter chill had faded, replaced by the warmth of an early spring breeze. Vibrant grain fields dotted the landscape, swaying gently in the wind.
As they walked along the stream, Wader noticed a small cottage up ahead, smoke curling from its chimney. “Maybe we can find something to eat there,” he suggested, feeling the ache in his stomach.
As they approached, they saw an old woman wearing a faded apron, tending to a garden full of bright flowers and vegetables. She was humming a tune while carefully watering her plants, her hands moving with a grace that belied her age.
“Good day!” Wader called out, waving.
The woman looked up, her eyes twinkling behind glasses perched on the bridge of her nose. “Ah, travelers! Welcome, welcome! I'm Mrs. Tinware, and I've got just the meal you need after such a journey.”
Scid's ears perked up. “Food! I love food!” The chipmunk scampered ahead, eager for a snack.
Mrs. Tinware chuckled, wiping her brow. “You must be starving. Come inside, I've just baked some bread and made a stew with fresh vegetables from my garden.” She turned and beckoned them toward her cozy cottage.
Inside, the smell of warm bread and hearty stew filled the air. The walls were lined with shelves of homemade preserves, and a fire crackled cheerfully in the hearth. The table was set with plates and mugs of steaming tea.
Wader sat down gratefully, savoring the warmth of the room. “Thank you for the meal. It smells amazing!”
“Oh, don't mention it,” Mrs. Tinware said with a grin. “I'm always happy to feed a weary traveler. Besides, you'll need your strength for the next part of your journey.”
“Next part?” Wader asked, his brow furrowing. “I thought we were heading toward the granite mountains. Is there more we need to do?”
Mrs. Tinware nodded, her face growing serious for a moment. “There's a test ahead of you—a test of wit and wisdom. The road through the mountains is fraught with danger, but it's not the wearing of strength that will get you through—it's your mind. There are riddles to solve, and if you answer them wrong, you'll be sent back.”
Wader looked at Scid. “I think we can handle that, right?”
Scid grinned and puffed out their chest. “Riddles? I love riddles! They're like snacks for the brain!”
Mrs. Tinware smiled. “You've got the spirit, I see. Just remember, there's no need to rush. The mountains will still be there when you're ready. And if you're hungry again, I've got plenty more stew and bread for you to eat.”
After a hearty meal and a few stories shared, Wader and Scid made their way back outside, the setting sun casting a golden hue over the landscape. As they walked, the scroll in Wader's satchel began to glow again, and the next riddle appeared:
"Through granite walls and winds that freeze,
The answers lie within the trees.
With wit alone, you'll find your way,
And leave behind the darkened day."
“Well, that doesn't sound too bad,” Scid said, her voice filled with excitement. “Let's go get those riddles!”