The group had left the village in the morning, but by nightfall, no one had returned.
The Zhao Family clansmen grew anxious with waiting. In the middle of the afternoon, they sent two more people to the county seat to see what was going on.
But these two cousins were like meat buns thrown at a dog—gone for good.
It wasn't until well after dark that Zhao Jing and his group finally returned, shrouded by the night.
Chen Wanqing and Mrs. Zhao didn't have time for detailed questions; they quickly ushered everyone in to eat.
In truth, the men had already eaten in the county seat. Chen Wanqing's mother had personally bought them food and delivered it.
Each man got a bowl of mutton soup and three griddle cakes, along with two large platters of side dishes. They ate until their mouths were glistening with oil, feeling absolutely wonderful.
