Before the wide-open doors of the Temple, those facing off were divided into four groups.
A band of short goblins, a group of cloaked figures, and a contingent of the International Auror forces.
And Theodore, standing alone in front of the doors.
Theodore concealed a playing card in one hand and held the Bone Jade Wand in the other, pointing it defiantly at those trying to force their way inside.
Four or five goblins lay on the ground, clutching their wounds and howling, while the others glared viciously at Theodore.
The cloaked figures looked on as though enjoying a show, seemingly eager for a fight to break out.
Leading the Auror forces was a scrawny old witch, who warned him in a raspy voice.
"The International Confederation of Wizards should be directing this operation. Young man, I order you to let us through immediately."
Theodore remained unmoved, his cold, haughty gaze full of warning.
An old goblin challenged the elderly witch.
"Councilor Rola, I don't care how you people argue this out. This brat injured my people, and you owe me an explanation. Look at the waves of restriction magic spilling out of the Temple. Hmph! Without our help, you can forget about entering the core area!"
Rola's gaze darkened, and the dense wrinkles on her face deepened. Had Dumbledore not repeatedly made his position clear, she would never have tolerated such insolence from these youngsters.
"Boy, the Curse-Breakers need time to unravel the restrictions. We won't be entering the core area anytime soon, even before your people arrive. There's no need to keep this standoff going."
Seeing that Theodore still refused to budge, Rola felt anger brewing inside her.
In her own country and within the International Confederation of Wizards, she was a witch whose word carried immense weight