Behind me, shouts and curses erupted as the gang re-focused their attention on me, their initial shock filled with growing anger. I threw a punch at Oliver as he attempted to flank me, landing a solid hit to his side. But his return swing barely missed my head.
"Stop her!" Kyler bellowed, grabbing a nearby crate to use as a shield, attempting to close the distance. It was a desperate move, and I could see the frustration brewing in his eyes; they were quickly losing control of the situation.
I sidestepped the wooden crate as it flew toward me, my heart hammering in my chest. The griffons shrieked from their cages, I couldn't let this opportunity slip through my fingers. With another flick, I unlocked a nearby cage, and the griffons took flight, soaring into the dimly lit space.
They collided with the steel bars, their wings flapping furiously as they regained their balance. Their outburst confused the group, momentarily distracting them, giving me just the opening I needed.
