Bab 69: Sacrificial Circle

Listening to the warning, Ben stopped in his tracks, not daring to touch any of his allies. He looked for the source of the voice. I expected some sort of attack or spell, but there was nothing. The only figure in the room, dressed in black, just stood there, holding onto her wand. 

"You can be at ease; although we are not friends, I can assure you we are not enemies as well."

"Not enemies, you say? I will believe your words if you undo your spells on my allies; otherwise, prepare to fight." Ben declared in an angry tone as he summoned the Ancient Spear in his one hand and the Windborn Shoes in his legs. 

In sudden retaliation, the mage too moved to the front of the small shrine and pointed her magical staff towards Ben.

In a bare instant, tension arose in the room, with any of the parties ready to attack at any moment.