As we ventured deeper into the woods, the air became thick with the scent of pine and mystery. I could practically hear the trees gossiping about us, their branches swaying like they were saying, "Look at these idiots."
Ethan pulled out his phone, probably looking for a signal that didn't exist. "I bet there's treasure hidden in here. Or at least some cool magical creature. Maybe a unicorn or something."
"Yeah, because nothing screams 'magical adventure' like getting stabbed by a unicorn's horn," I shot back, rolling my eyes. "But hey, if you see a rainbow trail, you let me know."
We hiked for what felt like hours, and just when I thought we were going to stumble upon Narnia, we came across a clearing. In the center was an ancient stone well, moss-covered and oozing mystery like a bad horror movie.
"Dude, look!" Ethan pointed. "What if that's where the dwarves used to fix stuff?"
"Or where they hid their stash of gold," I joked, approaching the well. I peered over the edge. "Great, just water. No gold, no magical creatures, just... well water."
Suddenly, I felt a tug at the edges of my mind—a faint whisper, like someone was trying to get my attention. I concentrated, hoping it was a sign of my powers kicking in. "Hey, did you hear that?" I asked Ethan.
"Hear what? The sound of disappointment?" he replied, sarcasm on full blast.
Ignoring him, I focused harder, and there it was again—a gentle pull, like a thread weaving its way into my consciousness. "It's coming from the well," I said, leaning closer. "I think… I think it's calling to me."
"Calling you? What is this, a Disney movie?" Ethan laughed, but his voice held a hint of nervousness. "Dude, you're not seriously considering jumping in, are you?"
"Relax! I'm not a total moron—yet," I replied, pulling back from the edge. "But maybe there's something magical down there. Or a clue about the glasses!"
Just as I said that, a flash of light burst from the well, and out popped a tiny figure—like a cross between a fairy and a lawn gnome, complete with a beard and a serious attitude.
"Who dares disturb my slumber?" the little guy shouted, waving a tiny fist. "I was having the most glorious dream about endless pies!"
"Uh, hi! We're just looking for… magic?" I said, trying to sound as casual as possible. "I'm Arion, and this is my best friend, Ethan."
"Magic, you say?" The gnome's eyes sparkled with mischief. "You've come to the right place! But if you want answers, you need to solve my riddle!"
Ethan leaned closer, whispering, "What if it's a trick? Like, what if he just wants to get us lost?"
I shrugged. "We've come this far. What's the worst that could happen? Let's hear the riddle!"
The gnome cleared his throat dramatically. "I have wings, but I'm not a bird. I can move quickly, yet I'm never heard. What am I?"
Ethan frowned, scratching his head. "Uh… a ninja?"
"No, you fool! It's a butterfly!" the gnome exclaimed, facepalming. "You're lucky I'm not a normal gnome; I'd turn you into a toad for that answer."
"Okay, okay! We get it!" I said, trying not to laugh. "So, what's the prize for solving your riddle?"
With a flourish, the gnome produced a small, shimmering vial. "This potion will grant you a glimpse into your future! But be careful—it might not be what you expect!"
"Is it like a fortune cookie but with less soy sauce?" I asked, eyeing the vial skeptically.
"Sure, if that helps you understand it better!" the gnome snapped. "Now, take it and go forth!"
I took the vial, feeling a strange warmth radiate from it. "Thanks, uh, Mister Gnome. We'll… uh, definitely make good use of it."
"Just don't forget to return for my pies!" he called after us as we started to walk away.
"Sure, buddy! We'll bring whipped cream!" I shouted back, shaking my head in disbelief.