Zargon swiftly reformed as The Red assumed a more human visage, and quickly considered his opponent. The speed at which his hastily attempted portal was dismantled was something to consider indeed; it meant his opponent was capable of wounding at a deeper level. Indeed, this was the situation he had desired to avoid; even being a demon of seniority, he was not invincible. [i]But neither is he...[/i]

He considered his options. He could dissipate into spiritual form and flee; that would be viewed as cowardly, but could be practical in maintaining full strength. Or he could fight, potentially eliminating or scarring his opponent, yet at possible damage to himself - something he wished also to avoid in light of other threats at home. He opted for the latter.

He could not let his opponent gain the advantage; being on the defensive would weaken him greatly. he responded to The Red's taunt by unleashing a raw barrage of demonic thoughts, turned to energy with his right hand, intended not to harm, but distract and temporarily blind, at best confuse - while the other hand called to him his sword. He assumed a crouch as he was doing so, so he could move quickly in case his opponent attacked before he was prepared. He only barely noticed Tirraian; the energy would come in her direction by the volume he sent out, but was not concentrated at her.