Every winter was always the hardest time to endure at Great River Market.
The Lancang River froze over, heavy snow sealed the mountains, and the direct sources of income for most cultivators were cut off.
Moreover, for some independent cultivators living in the Outer City Area, there was even the danger of starving demon beasts wandering out of the mountains to devour people.
But this year seemed somewhat different.
Walking along the streets of the Inner City, Luo Chen was astonished to find the crowds flowing like woven threads, far livelier than they had been in autumn.
Gu Cai Yi thoughtfully explained, "It's because of the Dao Discussion Stage at Fallen Phoenix Mountain."
Luo Chen was quick-witted, and with just a few simple hints from her, he roughly understood the reason.
The opening of the Dao Discussion Stage at Fallen Phoenix Mountain had stirred up a wave of cultivator battles.
Normally, only a few Late Qi Refining Stage experts and family cultivators put effort into competing there.
But as the weather grew colder and the mountains yielded less and less, some cultivators who truly could no longer scrape by finally began considering settling superiority on the Dao Discussion Stage.
As long as they went up and fought once, they received an appearance fee whether they won or lost!
And with Foundation Establishment Cultivators watching over the arena, at least their lives would not be in danger.
If they won, they could gain additional rewards as well—Spirit Stones, pills, Magic Tools, and more.
Thus, Great River Market was instead not so deserted this winter. Everyone was restless and eager to show off their brilliance.
Naturally, Jade Cauldron Sword Pavilion was delighted by this.
From the enormous number of registered cultivators, they could pick out contestants with higher realms and stronger combat