Fyar ran between the giant crystal pillars.
The ground shook violently behind him. The sound of crystal scales scraping against the sand grew louder, like the noise of a hunting chainsaw. The monster slid fast, closing the distance.
Illya hugged Fyar's neck tightly, her face buried in the young man's shoulder.
"Illya, listen," Fyar said. His breathing was steady even though his legs were moving fast.
"Teleport to the right side of that monster. I will shoot. Right when it freezes, move us directly in front of its belly. Hold on tight."
Fyar jumped to the side, dodging a chunk of crystal shot by the monster from behind.
Crack!
The chunk shattered a crystal pillar on their left. Glass shards scattered.
"Can you do it?" Fyar asked.
Illya lifted her face. Her eyes were focused. She nodded firmly beside Fyar's ear. "I can."
Fyar stopped running abruptly. He turned around.
