Chapter 236: A Single Man is a Nation

Seeing the confusion on her grandfather's face, Zhang Wenshuan understood that it was only natural for Zhang Ziyi to be unclear about what had happened in the small world.

She then patiently explained the situation to her grandfather in detail.

During their rigorous training in the small world, Lin Qian not only tailored specific cultivation techniques for each of them but also provided various miraculous elixirs to enhance their bodies and cultivation.

These practices not only strengthened them but also helped them unlock hidden potential that had yet to be realized.

Without Lin Qian's guidance, it would have been impossible for them to advance a minor realm in just five months.

Furthermore, Lin Qian crafted soul-armor garments for them, which were not only highly protective but also stylish. Zhang Wenshuan's own dress, for example, was designed using the same technique as Ye Xin's Starry White Gown, allowing it to emit a faint blue glow, giving it a beautiful, radiant appearance.

Of course, the quality and material of Zhang Wenshuan's dress couldn't compare to the Starry White Gown.

After listening to his granddaughter's explanation, Zhang Ziyi was stunned as he looked over at Lin Qian. He was amazed by Lin Qian's abilities, wondering just who this young man was to possess such remarkable skills.

Zhang Ziyi knew his granddaughter wouldn't deceive him, so her words must be true. In that case, they had indeed profited immensely from Lin Qian's help.

"In that case, it seems we should express our gratitude to Lin Qian properly," Zhang Ziyi mused, pausing for a moment before saying, "I'll send word back to the clan and have them prepare additional manuscripts to copy and gift to him."

Zhang Wenshuan nodded in agreement. "Also, Grandpa, keep an eye out for any manuscripts that mention something called 'Refining the Body.'"

"I'll keep that in mind."

Zhang Wenshuan wasn't the only one making such requests. Zhang Zide and Li Yunfeng also brought up the search for manuscripts related to refining the body when they met with Zhang Tianxin and Zhou Yian.

This was the small favor Lin Qian had asked of them.

After all, with the immense help Lin Qian had provided in their cultivation, it was only right for them to return the favor in some way. During their five months of training, they had come to understand just how much Lin Qian had contributed to their growth.

Their hearts were filled with gratitude, so the first thing they did after leaving the small world was to assist Lin Qian in finding the refining techniques he sought.

"Lin Qian, my young friend, I truly didn't expect you to bring such a pleasant surprise," Zhang Tianxin said, his excitement evident as he approached Lin Qian.

As one of the teams entering the Ancient Human Ruins, every bit of strength each individual possessed was crucial.

Given that no one knew what lay within the ruins, and external observers would have no way of monitoring the situation inside, those who entered would have to rely entirely on themselves.

There was a high likelihood of encountering life-and-death crises inside.

Therefore, any increase in strength before the journey meant a higher chance of survival and a better opportunity to seize the fortunes within.

And Lin Qian's contribution wasn't just a small improvement—it was a tremendous leap. How could Zhang Tianxin not be pleased?

The elders of the clan who had come along were similarly astonished, praising Lin Qian endlessly.

Afterward, the group gradually dispersed, and Lin Qian returned with Zhang Nianxin to the Eastern Branch Clan's residence in the holy city.

Along the way, Zhang Nianxin filled Lin Qian in on what had transpired since the tournament.

The results of the three skill competitions were as follows: the main clan took first place in refining, the Northern Branch Clan surprisingly won first place in alchemy, and the Western Branch Clan emerged victorious in formation mastery.

After the tournament concluded, most forces remained in the area, awaiting the Treasure-Betting Event, which was still being organized. It was expected to take place before the Ancient Human Ruins event.

As for Wu Chunshan, despite his unsuccessful attempts to meet with Lin Qian and Zhang Nianxin's continued cold reception, he eventually left early, empty-handed.

"However, he did leave a message for you before he departed," Zhang Nianxin said, his expression serious.

Lin Qian raised an eyebrow in curiosity. "What did he say?"

"'Pushing someone too far leads to regret,'" Zhang Nianxin relayed Wu Chunshan's exact words to Lin Qian.

After hearing this, Lin Qian chuckled coldly. "Then I must apologize. My intention is to push him too far, and I'm hoping he'll take action."

"This…" Zhang Nianxin looked worried.

Seeing Zhang Nianxin's concern, Lin Qian reassured him with a smile. "Don't worry. I'm not afraid of whatever he might do. In fact, I'd welcome him to try something in Linhai State."

Zhang Nianxin couldn't say anything more, given Lin Qian's confident demeanor.

A few days after returning to the Eastern Branch Clan's residence, Zhang Ziyi and Zhang Wenshuan visited. Their purpose was twofold: first, to express their gratitude to Lin Qian for helping Zhang Wenshuan advance; and second, to discuss the growing relationship between Zhang Qi and Zhang Wenshuan, much to the amusement of Lin Qian and Ye Xin.

Two days later, Zhang Tianxin and Zhou Yian visited together, with Zhang Zide and Li Yunfeng in tow.

Their visit, much like Zhang Ziyi's, was to thank Lin Qian for his assistance.

Zhang Tianxin, in particular, presented Lin Qian with a generous gift of several tens of thousands of manuscripts.

In addition, Zhang Tianxin increased Lin Qian's tournament points to 500, allowing him to exchange them for whatever he wished.

Lin Qian wasted no time converting all his points into soul crystals, sending them to the Hua Xia Empire for future use and as capital for the Treasure-Betting Event.

Earning soul crystals was now one of Lin Qian's top priorities!

The Ancient Human Ruins event, a grand occasion of monumental significance, might be slightly delayed as formation masters from various factions continued to struggle with the ruins' entry formations. However, according to Zhang Tianxin and Zhou Yian, their progress was far from promising.

"For now, all we can do is expand the entrance and allow more young talents to enter. Monitoring the situation inside is impossible," Zhou Yian sighed, addressing Lin Qian and the others. "Once you're inside, be extremely cautious. The greatest danger may not be the ruins themselves, but the other talents entering with you."

"Indeed," Zhang Tianxin added with a solemn nod. "With so many forces, both human and sea clans alike, gathered in one place, betrayal and treachery will be rampant. If you die inside, there may be no way to identify the culprit."

Hearing this, everyone grew serious, except Lin Qian, whose eyes gleamed with unexpected excitement.

The outside world couldn't observe what happened inside?

In that case, once inside the Ancient Human Ruins, Lin Qian could freely unleash the full power of the Hua Xia Empire!

In that ancient land, who could possibly stand against him?

Lin Qian—a single man was equal to an entire nation!