In a dimly lit chamber deep within the Temple, Rhodes sat with his eyes closed, surrounded by seven small vials of potion, each glowing with a different colored light. Two mages stood nearby, channeling subtle energies to enhance the potions' effectiveness.
"The soul damage is extensive," one mage remarked quietly to the other. "Whatever he encountered out there—"
"We don't discuss that," the second mage interrupted firmly. "Master Kaecilius was clear."
Rhodes appeared not to hear them, his focus entirely on the healing process as he methodically consumed each potion in a specific sequence.
As the final vial—a brilliant amber liquid that seemed to contain motes of golden light—touched his lips, the door opened silently.
Kaecilius entered, his face betraying concern and urgency. "The Aurors have made contact with one of our own. We've been compromised. I fear we may not have much time."
Rhodes opened his eyes, which momentarily gleamed with the same golden light as the potion before returning to normal.
"Then we should prepare," he replied, rising to his feet with newfound steadiness. "The Ancient One foresaw this confrontation, but even she cannot predict its outcome."
Kaecilius nodded gravely. "The question remains: are they truly our enemy, or merely misguided in their pursuit?"
"Does it matter?" Rhodes asked, a new edge to his voice. "Either way, they threaten the work we've devoted ourselves to. The barriers grow weaker each day. If the Temple falls before we complete our task..."
He let the implication hang in the air between them.
"Then we must ensure it doesn't," Kaecilius concluded firmly. "Rest while you can, Rhodes. I fear we'll all need our strength in the days to come."
As Kaecilius turned to leave, his hand drifted to the amulet concealed beneath his robes—an artifact that would allow them to activate the Sanctum prematurely if necessary. They had planned to wait for optimal conditions, but circumstances were rapidly forcing their hand.
The dance of hunter and hunted was accelerating toward its inevitable collision.