"Everyone stay calm," one of the emissaries barked, scanning the room. "We're looking for thieves and traitors. Hand over anyone who opposes the Warlord!"
Panic erupted in the tavern as people scrambled to hide, but Alex and his friends found themselves cornered. "We have to get out of here!" Wei urged, looking for an escape route.
"Not without information," Lianhua insisted, her voice steady despite the chaos.
"Quick! We can use the back exit!" Lila shouted, grabbing Alex's arm and pulling him toward the rear door.
As they dashed through the tavern, one of the emissaries spotted them. "There they are! Don't let them escape!" he shouted, lunging forward.
"Go! I'll hold them off!" Lianhua said, drawing her sword defiantly.
"No way! We can't leave you!" Mei protested.
"Trust me! I'll catch up!" Lianhua insisted, her eyes fierce with determination. "Now go!"
With a heavy heart, Alex nodded, forcing himself to move. They sprinted through the back door, Lila leading the way.