By this time, most of the villagers had arrived, and they were chatting in groups of threes and fives.
Generally, there were only two uses for the threshing floor: tax collection and conscription.
But now was neither the time for taxes nor conscription, so what was the reason for this gathering?
When almost everyone had arrived, the village elder stood on the temporary platform and announced, "Everyone remain quiet, stand still, no talking, and do not move around without permission."
The noisy crowd quieted down, not because of the elder's words but because of the four sword-wielding officers.
They had always treated those from the Government Office with a blend of respect and avoidance.
Especially since the front two officers had their large swords placed against one man's neck, their faces fierce, looking rather intimidating.
What exactly were they trying to do? Could they give a clear explanation?
This way, at least they could spare themselves the needless worry!
