The Red-Eyed Monster

Adrian took a shaky step back, his breath ragged, his eyes darting between Colin and the ground. His bravado had crumbled, replaced by raw fear and pain.

Every trainee, staff member, and veteran watching from the stands sat in stunned silence. How could someone so young and unassuming possess such overwhelming strength and presence?

Adrian took another unsteady step back, his foot slipping slightly on the scorched ground. Colin tilted her head, a mockingly curious expression crossing her face.

"Oh no," she said, her voice tinged with false concern. "Am I losing my sight? You keep getting farther away even though I haven't moved. Let me verify it."

She stepped forward once, her movements calm and slow. Adrian flinched hard, nearly tripping over himself in the process.

"Careful," Colin said, her tone sweetly mocking.