The team sprang into action, grabbing what they could from the crates and making their way back toward the exit. But the enemy was already upon them, armed and ready for a fight.
Alexei found himself face-to-face with a burly thug, his expression twisted into a snarl.
The man lunged at Alexei, a knife glinting in his hand.
Alexei dodged to the side, his reflexes honed by years of combat training. He countered with a swift punch to the man's gut, followed by an elbow to the face.
The thug staggered back, blood streaming from his nose.
The coppery scent of blood mixed with the salty air, creating a nauseating aroma that hung heavy around them.
But Alexei had no time to celebrate.
Another attacker was already closing in, this one wielding a metal pipe.
Alexei ducked under the swing, his instincts taking over. He grabbed the attacker's arm, twisting it sharply until he heard a satisfying crack.
