| Aatra found that the use of the muscles that would allow her to talk
had been restored to her. "Um, very impressive," she said. "Are you a powerful
mage or a brilliant scientist, or what?" "I dabble in both magic and science,"
said the old man. "It's so nice to have a visitor so that I can show off
a few of the things I've been working on. Out here in the desert, I rarely
see anyone, so it was a nice surprise when I detected you and your friend
at the oasis, and was able to guide you here."
"Talking about my friend," said Astra, "where is he?" The scientist/mage replied:
|
"He's tied to an operating table at the moment.
I'm afraid I needed an experimental subject. Well, two subjects, actually." 
"He's fine. I'll take you to him." 