As Elphaba stood at the edge of the camp, staring out at the darkening landscape, she heard a rustling in the bushes. She turned to see a small, furry creature emerge, its eyes shining with a soft, green light.
"Greetings, Elphaba," it said, in a soft, melodious voice. "I've been sent to help you."
Elphaba's eyes widened in surprise. "Who are you?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.
The creature smiled, revealing sharp, pointed teeth. "My name is Fliak," it said. "And I'm here to help you defeat Madam Morrible."
Elphaba was taken aback. She had heard of the Fliak, ancient creatures with magical powers. But she thought they were extinct.
"Why me?" she asked, her voice filled with skepticism. "I'm just a young witch. What makes you think I can defeat Madam Morrible?"
Fliak's eyes shone with intensity. "You have a power within you, Elphaba," he said. "A power that Madam Morrible fears greatly. I've been sent to help you unlock it."
Elphaba hesitated, unsure of what to do. But something about Fliak's words resonated with her. She decided to take a chance.
"Okay," she said, her voice firm. "I'll do it."
Fliak smiled, his eyes shining with approval. "I knew I could count on you," he said. "Now, let us begin your training."
And with that, Fliak began to teach Elphaba the ways of magic, helping her to unlock her true potential and prepare for the battle ahead.
The next day, Fliak took Elphaba to a secluded clearing, surrounded by tall trees that blocked out most of the sunlight. The air was thick with the scent of damp earth and growing things.
"Today, we begin your training in earnest," Fliak said, his eyes glining with excitement. "Are you ready to learn the secrets of the Fliak?"
Elphaba nodded, her heart pounding with anticipation. She was ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.
Fliak smiled, his teeth glining in the dim light. "Then let us begin," he said.