The whole scene was shocking. The brief look of shock that registered on Valarie's face was a clear testament to the fact that even she had been taken unawares by the masked man's new growth.
But as a seasoned mage who had been tested by battle, Valarie quickly recovered. Like a cobra whose tail had been stepped on, Valarie prepared to strike back with an equally destructive attack.
But once again, her opponent surprised her. The masked man's theme seemed to be unpredictability, Valarie realized this with his next attack.
With the air charged with the unmistakable energy of battle and chaos, Valarie's vision was tinged with red. So, as she looked on, it was almost as if she was watching in slow motion.
The most logical thing at that instant was for the masked man to rush at her with his new ability, but instead, Valarie watched with a mixture of horror, disappointment and fear as he rushed towards her students. She clenched her fists as she immediately moved to counter him.
