Generally, if I'm attacking someone and they send me a message simply asking that I stop, I'll stop, especially if they're weaker. Conversely, if they send me a message trying to threaten or intimidate me, I just send three or four more waves their way.

Regarding the OP's concern, I haven't found that the latter is all that common. I've only had it happen a few times. Amusingly, it's usually been people whose Honor level indicates that they don't seem to have any reservations about attacking others. I wouldn't really worry too much about it or let it impede your enjoyment of the game.