He looks strong. And he gave you fish. You are sure he will be able to handle the thugs, if you help him just a little bit. You do have built in weapons both on your feet and in your face.

You are not risking your beautiful coat for him but you can help him escape. A little distraction from your side and he might be able to get away.

The fish he gave you was nice, but it was one of those cheap ones, a lot of bones and not a lot of meat. And you were never that close friends anyway. You will leave him to his fate.