A stage for the Imperial Jade Championship had already been set up in Golden Market, on an open space not far from the entrance. The area had originally been quiet and deserted, making it perfect for use as the Imperial Jade arena.
Everyone also arrived at Golden Market with their own goals and all manner of contestants.
"Momo Rolls, wonderful cakes, come take a look!"
"Big buns, little dumplings—you'll never forget them after one bite!"
"Qiongshi Bird Skewers for sale!"
With the massive influx of people, the closed shops in Golden Market all reopened for business. Even some antique shops began receiving customers, while the vendor selling Flaming Strong Tea returned to his old spot and started calling out his wares.
"You call this tea? Isn't this just liquor?"
"Have you ever seen tea that can be lit directly with fire?"
Some particularly picky customers questioned whether Flaming Strong Tea was even tea at all.
"If it doesn't get you drunk, it's tea. If it gets you drunk, it's liquor. You're speaking so forcefully right now, so tell me—are you drunk?"
The Flaming Strong Tea vendor smiled at the difficult customers and asked. Thinking it over, they had indeed drunk several cups and did not feel drunk at all.
It was not just here. Customers and shop owners were chatting everywhere else as well, and Golden Market was gradually becoming lively.
At the Imperial Jade Championship venue, a Golden Market Chamber of Commerce employee stood on the stage as the host.
"Welcome, everyone, to the first Imperial Jade Championship! I'm your host, Susan."
A female Golden Market staff member smiled as she introduced herself.
"I'm Xiao Hei. Everyone can call me Little Blackie."
The male host with the center-parted hair grinned cheerfully.
"With the general's permission and the help of