Somehow, the group of men Shahrzad and Khalid had managed to offend numbered seven. Of this seven, three showed signs of obvious injury, while the other four appeared at a loss of pride more than anything else. Not counting money, of course. And money counted for a lot. At the sight of Khalid with his sword at the ready, several of them withdrew their own piecemeal weapons. Without a word, Khalid advanced. “Gentlemen!” Shahrzad cut him off. “This seems a bit—premature. I believe this whole situation can be attributed to a misunderstanding. Please accept my sincere apologies for our part in the
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