CHAPTER SIX HUNDRED AND THREE – A HOSTILE VILLAGE

For a moment, the two men stared each other down, the celebration continuing around them oblivious to the brewing confrontation. Then, with a roar of rage, Yuri released Jasmine and lunged at Sergei. What followed was a brief but brutal scuffle. Despite his injuries, Sergei fought with the desperation of a man protecting not just Jasmine, but their very lives. Yuri had size and strength on his side, but he was hampered by his drunkenness. The fight drew attention quickly. Villagers gathered around, shouting and gesticulating. Some tried to pull the men apart, while others egged them on. Jasmine heard Ivan's voice, bellowing for order, but it was lost in the chaos. Finally, several men managed to separate Sergei and Yuri. Both were bloodied and panting. Sergei swayed on his feet, his face twisted in pain as he put weight on his injured leg. The crowd was divided. Some villagers berated Yuri for his behavior, while others glared at Sergei and Jasmine, muttering darkly about outsiders