Wader the Frog
The glow from the scroll faded, leaving Wader and Scid standing at the peak of the alp, the entire world sprawled before them. The wind howled around them, lifting Scid's fur as they gazed out at the vast lands beyond. It was a moment of triumph—one earned through riddles, courage, and wisdom.
“Well, that was quite the adventure,” Wader said, breathing in the crisp mountain air. “But what now?”
Scid looked up at the sky, her eyes sparkling with excitement. “Now we take what we've learned and make the world better. But we'll need help, right?”
Wader nodded. “I'm sure there are others who could lend a hand, though I'm not sure where to start.”
As if on cue, a newly arrived figure appeared at the edge of the path, stepping out from behind a large rock. It was a tall, imposing figure wearing a wide hat that shaded their face. A worn satchel hung at their side. The stranger waved, their movements quick and confident.
“Ah, travelers!” the figure called. “I am here to offer assistance. You've done well to come so far. I am known as the Deli Master, and I've traveled far and wide. I've seen many places, and now I offer my services in your quest.”
Wader and Scid exchanged a glance. “Deli Master?” Wader asked. “What exactly do you do?”
“Ah, it's a bit unwieldy to explain, but I have many skills. I've trained in both the art of wielding rare knowledge and lending my expertise to those who need it,” the Deli Master replied, his voice rich with confidence.
“Lending? What do you mean by that?” Scid asked curiously.
“I can help guide you through the challenges ahead,” the Deli Master said, “but it will require a lien of sorts—a promise that, once the task is done, you will share the knowledge with others.”
Wader raised an eyebrow. “A lien, huh? That's a hefty promise.”
“Well, it's not quite a DUI, if that's what you're worried about,” the Deli Master added with a smirk. “No need to worry about such trivialities. The promise is simply that you'll use the knowledge you gain for the greater good.”
Wader thought about this for a moment. “That sounds fair,” he said, nodding. “We've learned so much, and sharing it could help others.”
Scid squeaked in excitement. “I'm in! What's next?”
The Deli Master smiled. “Ah, first, let me offer you something useful—a special potion. It's a mix of lye and other magical ingredients. It will help you on your next journey, giving you strength and resilience to face whatever lies ahead.”
Wader hesitated. “Lye? That doesn't sound very friendly.”
“Oh, it's a special recipe I've perfected over the years. I promise, it's safe,” the Deli Master assured them, handing over two small vials filled with a glowing liquid. “Just one sip, and you'll feel invincible.”
Wader took the vial in his hand, feeling the warmth of its glow. “Alright, I trust you. Here goes.”
As they both took a sip, a wave of energy surged through their bodies. They felt stronger, clearer, and ready for whatever the next challenge might bring.
The Deli Master looked toward the horizon. “Now, you must decide your next move. The path ahead is widely known to be full of danger, but also great opportunity. Only you can choose which way to go.”
The scroll in Wader's satchel began to glow again, revealing a final message:
"The end of one journey is but the start,
Now wield your strength, and follow your heart.
The road is open, but your steps must be true,
For the future is yours, awaiting you."
Wader nodded. “Let's make it count, Scid. We've got the tools, we've got the knowledge, and most importantly… we've got each other.”
Together, they turned toward the unknown, ready for whatever lay ahead.