(To clarify, I imagine Franklin & Co are following Maloof, but hugging the right-hand wall, steering clear of the balrog trap. Perhaps they are moving in single-file formation.)
Franklin reclaims all of his magic items (especially his ring of invisibility) before continuing on. "We should definitely put some distance between us and that balrog," he agrees (heading back to the elevator then east & north).
"One last thing then we'll be out of your hair: Is the balrog dormant or active? Is it confined to its lair, or out on the loose, wandering the halls?" (This is Franklin's concern.)
Franklin listens carefully how the Enchanter reacts to mention of Ozminster and Thoth.
When there is a convenient lull in the conversation he chimes in, "Also I was wondering if you have any magic items for sale? Any potions that would make me a better fighter, that sort of thing?"
Franklin is wearing his armor. He is carrying his magic sword and shield. He leaves his gold and magic items behind with the main party. He hesitates for a moment before handing the ring of invisibility over to Aldbane. Then he heads south with Maloof. He doesn't say much and keeps a wary eye as he ...
Franklin volunteers! He has pretty good saving throw vs spells. He'll bring his magic sword (since it's presumably of no use to a magic user) but will leave the rest of his magic items behind with the potential rescue party.
That sounds like a good plan. Franklin was starting to get the feeling of being a pawn caught in the middle of the wizards' feud. Maybe the enchanters know some way to flip the script.
OOC: Let me put it this way. Franklin's hobbet sense of "fairness" is whispering, we should either walk away and not pick sides in this rivalry, or kill both wizards and take all their treasure. But killing one wizard at the other's bidding, feels like we are stooping to their level and r...