400

He watched in growing alarm as the guards began to close in. Chief, having reached a dead-end alleyway, was surrounded. Three guards, their faces grim and determined, blocked his escape. One of them raised a hand, and a shimmering net of magical energy materialized, ready to ensnare the fleeing ratman. Rattan's heart pounded in his chest. He had to do something.

Without thinking, he darted out of the shadows, letting out a high-pitched squeak that drew the attention of both Chief and the guards. "This way!" he yelled, pointing to a narrow opening between two buildings, a passage barely wide enough for a single person to squeeze through.

The guards, momentarily distracted by Rattan's sudden appearance, hesitated. It was just the opening Chief needed. With a powerful roar, he charged forward, smashing into the guard holding the energy net. The magical construct dissipated, and Chief, using his momentum, pushed past the stunned guard, creating a narrow gap.