She casts a shield spell... with unintended consequences

Even with her bikini nullifying the effects of the poison, Marie knew the Mandragora would still pose a threat. It has countless vines that could lash out like whips, could shoot thorns, and some say it even had psychic abilities. It would be best engage in battle fully prepared.

Marie begins chanting, casting a shield spell that would surround her entire body, wishing she could have used it earlier to stave off all the wandering hands on the journey here. But the spell only lasted an hour and was quite draining; she had needed to conserve her mana for offensive spells as well.

".... sha-kam! -oof!" Marie finishes chanting just as someone comes rushing out of the forest. Marie's staff falls from her grasp as the body collides with hers, knocking her to the ground.

"Get off me!" the mage shouts, getting a her first good look at her assailant. He had a handsome face with a shaved head, broad chest, and muscular arms... and was completely naked. "Eeek!" Marie screeched. "Why are you naked??"

"I was meditating under the waterfall, when a couple of mischievous nymphs decided to steal my robe!" The man shouts, blushing slightly. "I was running back to the monastery when I ran into you!" He tries to pick himself up, but his eyes suddenly fill with fear and anger. "What did you do to me, you witch! And why are you nearly naked? Are you trying to seduce me, you - you... seductress!!"

So this man is a monk, Marie realizes. One who forgoes traditional weapons and armor, but trains their body to become an incredible fighting machine. They also abstain from many worldly pleasures such as meat, and sex. In horror, Marie also realizes that he must have collided with her just as she finished her shield spell - trapping him inside with her! The protective sphere was meant for one - leaving the mage and monk very little room to maneuver as they struggle to regain their footing.

"Turn off your shield!" The monk shouts.

"I-I can't!" Marie stammers, blushing as she feels his bare leg rub against hers. "It's a timed spell that lasts an hour. The only thing that can get in or out are my fireballs."