Song You tore the slice of ham into small pieces and placed it in his mouth. He didn’t rush to chew; instead, he let it linger in his mouth and savored the salty, aromatic flavor it released. Once it softened a bit, he began to chew, appreciating the texture of the meat fibers.0

The ham was dry and fragrant, and he didn’t grow tired of it no matter how much he ate.0

He slowed his pace and tore off another piece, then he bent down and lowered his hand to allow the calico cat to stand on its hind legs and take the meat from his hand. The demons, ghosts, monsters and spirits passing by watched them but no longer caused trouble or gathered around.0

As he strolled, he eventually reached the large bonfire in the center of the marketplace. 0

The market was clustered around the fire. This fire was unusual, possessing some strange properties, though it wasn’t a divine or infernal fire capable of burning the heavens or scorching one’s soul. Instead, it guided the mountain demons and spirits and kept away other malevolent beings.0

Near the fire, Song You saw several demons and spirits dressed in official uniforms. Even the ghosts showed no fear of the fire.0

When the distant bear-like and buffalo-headed officials saw Song You, they cupped their hands. Song You returned the gesture.0

The existence of this marketplace was quite extraordinary. Since there had been previous...0