Joy pointed to a pile of rocks near the trees. "I'll throw one to distract them. When they go check it out, we'll run for the gate. Don't stop. Don't look back."
Kyra's heart pounded in her chest as she crouched, ready to sprint. Joy picked up a rock, tossed it hard, and it landed with a thud on the other side of the clearing. The guards turned instantly, moving toward the noise.
"Now!" Joy grabbed her arm.
They ran, feet pounding against the ground as they raced toward the gate. For a brief moment, the fog seemed to protect them, but then one of the creatures turned back. Its eyes locked onto them, and it let out a deafening roar.
"They've seen us!" Kyra gasped, pushing herself to run faster.
"Keep going!" Joy shouted.
