The instant the fiery bolt slammed into the man, his eyes flew open, and his mouth opened in a silent cry. He might have attempted to shamble forward, to bring the dagger to bear against his attacker, but as it were the flames swallowed up the dry cloth wrapped around his frame, and the heat from the magic left him in such a state of overwhelming pain that no attempt could be made by him. He fell forward, defeated by the surprise attack.<br/><br/>The thrill of an easy victory did not have much time for celebration, however; for as soon as the man collapsed, the rune carved upon the ground lit up with a purplish light. The other man's eyes flew open, and without taking even a moment to understand the situation the dagger he bore was swung at the woman, its cruel blade missing the flesh and only succeeding in catching a bit of the cape as she avoided the sudden attack. He stumbled for a moment, limbs stiff from his prior immobility, and taking a moment to look at the interloper who had boldly trespassed upon these grounds.<br/><br/>In the amber and purple light some of the details were lost, but the alluring figure and lovely features of the woman was wholly undeniable. Her silken black hair framed her haughty countenance, with plush lips and stern eyes holding as much beauty as they did arrogance. His eyes drifted down from her face and to enjoy the sight of the sun kissed breasts, barely contained in the red and gold gossamer top, and practically goading him to imagine them bared. From there he looked down her flat, toned midriff to the tantalizing glimpses of upper thigh, all coming together in a form which was undeniably erotic. He cursed that the knife had failed to at least free those breasts, but there was little time for that kind of thought now. All in all the observation lasted only but a moment, for despite his stiffened limbs the robed figure lunged forward again, his knife seeking this mysterious woman who had dared to transgress on the nameless temple.