"Biff?" I gasped in shock "How..."
The dwarf cocked his head and snarled with contempt "Who?"
A polite cough drew our attention and we turned to see a wizard standing nearby, leaning on his staff. He wore crimson robes and had a long white beard. His eyes were shaded by the wide brim of his hat but there was a definite twinkle to them.
"A drow!" spat the dwarf, "Ya brought me here to rescue a stinking drow!"
"Now, now," chided the wizard "let us not judge a person on the colour of their skin, but on the quality of their hearts." The dwarf grumbled but didn't object. "Now," added the wizard, "Please be so kind as to help the young lady up." The dwarf rolled his eyes and hefted the corpse off my lap.
"Thanks," I mumbled as I clambered to my feet.
"I believe these are yours?" said the wizard, handing me my swords.
"Than-" I began. I paused, the sight of the wizard's face shocking me. "Gramps?" I cried.
"I'm afraid you must be mistaken young lady," he chuckled, smiling coyly.
"B-but," I stammered, "You look just like my grampa."
"He looks just like my granpappy too," growled the dwarf.
"I assure you I am not your grandfather my dear," he smiled, placing a reassuring hand on my arm, "But I might have some answers. I believe you have a certain item on your person?"
"I-," I began, starting to reach for my belt.
"No, at least not here," he whispered, grasping my hand. "In due time I will explain, but I think it would be best if we move on from this place."
I looked around at the carnage around us and nodded in agreement.
"Come along," instructed the wizard, striding away down the alley. I shared a look with the dwarf and followed.
