The light streaming through the door crack seemed to be the only beacon of hope in the otherwise hellish arena.


    Hurry, theres not much time, Bryson urged quietly, his eyes fixed on the countdown on the screen, calcting their steps with precision.


    As they neared the door, a cacophony of footsteps and the tter of metal echoed from the other end of the corridor.


    Hannahs eyes narrowed, signaling for everyone to take cover.


    They pressed against the door, holding their breath in tense anticipation.


    Whos there? The piercing voice shattered the silence.


    Several masked men d in ck, armed to the teeth, emerged from the shadows.


    Their attire bore a striking resemnce to that of the man who had been apanying Hannah and Bryson, causing Hannahs heart to constrict with apprehension.


    The situation was far more tangled than she had initially thought; not only were there wild beasts to contend with, but these ominous figures as well. Brysons grip on her hand tightened reassuringly, his gaze steely as he confronted the strangers.


    Who are you? he demanded.


    It seems our game has new yers, one of the masked men muttered under his breath, his voiceced with unease.


    You three, step out!manded the leader, his electric baton sizzling in the tense air.


    At that moment, Hannah noticed the masked mens wary nces flicking behind them, as if they too were on alert.


    A n quickly took shape in her mind.


    She murmured her strategy to Bryson, who nodded in agreement.


    Wereing out, but dont misinterpret our intentions.


    We simply wish to leave this ce, Hannah dered, stepping forward with her hands raised in a gesture of peace, her eyes, however, sparkled with a sharp intelligence. The men, although suspicious, eased their stance slightly, rxing their tight circle.


    However, their focus intensified upon spotting the man apanying Hannah and Bryson.


    If youre not here to im bounties in the arena, then who is he? one demanded.


    The man at Hannahs side took a hesitant step back.


    They have already in the crocodile-dragon! They have amassed more points than you.


    ying more beasts will not tilt the bnce in your favor! he dered, gesturing emphatically.


    In twenty minutes, we can leave.


    You cant win! he added, his tone defiant.


    The masked men exchanged wary looks, their response chilling. Eliminate them! Their points will be ours! But just as tension peaked, Hannah raised her voice.


    Wait! she interjected, her eyes locking onto the gang leader with a challenging stare.


    How about we strike a deal? The leader paused, taken aback by Hannahs calm demeanor and unexpected proposal in such a grave situation.


    Oh? And what makes you believe you hold any leverage topel us to spare you? he sneered, his baton crackling ominously.


    Its simple.


    I offer you our points, Hannah proposed slowly, her words heavy with implications.


    The others exchanged doubtful nces, skepticism etched on their faces.


    We were merely sent here to survive.


    We have no interest in points or rewards! Hannah continued, her voice firm.