The Wind Rises (3)

Ye Jingxuan stood behind the crowd, his teeth itching with frustration.

Acting? He clearly remembered the stench that had rushed at him when the wolf demon pounced, the cold gleam on its claws, and the terror of his heart nearly leaping out of his throat—how could any of that have been acted out?

He opened his mouth, wanting to argue, but seeing the villagers' half-believing, half-doubting looks, he swallowed his words again. He had no proof, only his own memories, and under the Daoist's gentle explanation, even the children's words seemed to have become "playful nonsense."

Just then, the Daoist suddenly raised a hand and made a casual gesture toward the stone mill in the open space by the courtyard gate. Everyone's vision blurred. When they focused again, a half-man-tall blue-glazed ceramic jar had appeared in the previously empty yard.

A piece of bright red silk sealed the mouth of the jar. The morning breeze lightly lifted one corner, and a sweet, clear fragrance of wine instantly spread through the air, drifting into everyone's noses and making them sniff involuntarily.

Those who knew their goods recognized it at once—it was Peach Blossom Wine personally brewed by the Peach Blossom Immortal! In previous years, only during the annual festival would the Immortal bestow a small jar, to be shared among the village elders and children. They said drinking it could strengthen the body and prolong one's life.

Over the past few years, the villagers had indeed suffered far fewer headaches and fevers, proving that what the Immortal gave them was truly good stuff. But now, the Daoist had brought out an entire jar at once!

The Daoist stepped forward and personally lifted the red cloth from the jar. The pale pink wine inside swayed gently beneath the morning light, as though