The villagers looked at each other, then at the twenty or so big men holding swords, and at the anxious Lizheng.
They restrained their eagerness to get close and cozy with the County Magistrate and honestly retreated to the old pagoda tree.
Yet they refused to disperse, raising their necks and standing on tiptoe to look behind.
Seeing the situation stabilize, Song Chongjin gently tugged the reins, squeezed his legs, and his horse slowly walked forward.
The personal soldiers dared not relax, guarding him in the middle, vigilantly watching the crowd.
On the horseback, Song Chongjin cupped his hands and saluted around: "I return home today to visit family, which is a private matter, but I have disturbed the elders and villagers. I apologize! As it's already late today, and the journey has been exhausting, please allow me to go home and rest. I will definitely treat everyone to some simple wine another day to apologize. Does that sound good?"
