Hunter

If the Hunter's words had caused the voices in the inn to drop to a whisper, the mage's response left only a stunned silence.

There were a dozen people in the common room, and all of them understood the dire situation they were in. They might not know who would prevail in a battle between the mages and the Hunter, but there could be little doubt that regardless of the victor, any hapless bystanders were in mortal peril.

Arran had different worries, however. He might not be in any real danger, but escaping such a battle unharmed would certainly draw attention. And attention was something he definitely did not need.

Yet the mage seemed resolved to stand his ground. Even if there was fear in his eyes, his jaw was firm, and he showed no signs of backing down despite his obvious terror.

Had his cause been a better one, Arran might have been impressed with his bravery. But as it was, he was merely astonished by the man's stupidity.