“Of course I will pay the forfeit of a wager fairly lost,” the trickster purred. “Refresh my faulty memory, though. What was the price to be?”

“Your head,” the dwarf said, hefting his axe.

“Just so,” the trickster said. “But whatever did you bring that axe for?”

“Why, to cut through your deceitful neck,” the dwarf said.

“Deceitful, you say? Such slander! I’m not the one trying to alter the terms of the wager,” the trickster said. “I offered you my one and only head, in its entirety… if you wanted to take any portion of my neck, you should have been good enough to specify up front.”

“But how can I take your head without cutting your neck?” the dwarf asked.

“Well, now, when you figure that out, friend, you know where to find me,” the trickster said, and he turned to leave.

“Hold a moment, friend,” the dwarf said. “Since you’re such a good sport, I’ve decided to cut you a break.”

“You know, I rather thought you might,” the trickster said. “And don’t think I won’t remember your kindness.”

“I daresay you won’t forget it,” the dwarf said. “Just because it’s you… I’ll only claim half my prize.”

(Source: fantasyinminiature.com)