As we made our way back through the woods, the weight of the vial in my pocket felt heavier with each step. "So, what's the plan with that potion?" Ethan asked, glancing sideways at me.
"Honestly? I have no idea. It could be a total scam, or it could be life-changing. Either way, it's not like I'm going to be boring and not try it," I said, feeling that rush of excitement building again.
Just then, we stumbled into a sunlit glade, and my breath caught in my throat. Standing there was a girl with long, flowing silver hair and piercing blue eyes—like she had just walked out of one of Grandma's stories.
"Whoa," Ethan whispered beside me. "Is this the part where we get enchanted or something?"
The girl turned to us, her expression a mix of curiosity and caution. "You're not from around here, are you?"
I stammered, trying to sound suave. "Uh, nope! Just two guys looking for magic and… uh, adventure?"
She raised an eyebrow, clearly unimpressed. "Well, you've found both. I'm Lyra, a healer from the nearby village. What brings you to the enchanted woods?"
Ethan nudged me, clearly sensing my awkwardness. "Arion here just inherited some magical glasses and—"
"Wait! You have the glasses?" Lyra's eyes widened, and suddenly, all the sass faded from her voice. "Those are powerful. You have to be careful."
"Yeah, I figured that out," I replied, rubbing the back of my neck. "But I also have this potion from a gnome that's supposed to show me my future."
Her eyes sparkled with intrigue. "A potion? That could be dangerous. You should let me help you."
"Help me? You mean like… assist in my quest for epic magical powers?" I asked, trying not to sound too hopeful.
She nodded, her expression softening. "I can guide you. But we need to be cautious; there are dark forces at play in these woods."
"Great! Just what I wanted—an epic quest with a mysterious healer. This is officially my favorite day," I said, grinning like an idiot.
"And I'm officially part of your entourage," Ethan chimed in, pumping his fist in the air. "Just like Robin! But, like, way cooler!"