“How…” You trail off staring at the spectacle before you. After some seconds you gather yourself. “Have you seen an old man passing by recently? He is my travel companion.”

“Heh, lad. There are old men all around you! You need to be more specific.” Grinning from ear to ear, it’s quite clear he sees how dumbfounded you are at the situation.

“His name is Maldred. He wears a long flowing dark brown robe, has long white hair and a long white beard to match. His eyes are blue and he’s constantly smoking on a pipe.”

The man thinks for a moment and replies. “Hmm, can’t say we’ve met such a fellow here.” He pulls out a chair for you.

“Why don’t you join us for our dinner meanwhile, let us help you look for this Maldred meanwhile.”