Ye Rong truly hadn't expected Jiang Chen, without any prior warning, to give them such an earth-shattering surprise.
It was true he had spared no expense to recruit Jiang Chen. He'd even given away the Fourth-Refined Spirit Artifact, the Dayu Bow.
But today, Jiang Chen had not only returned his investment but also repaid it with interest. And this return, five spirit artifacts combined couldn't compare.
Spirit artifacts were lifeless things; with money, one could always buy them.
But this pride, this feeling of vindication, and the honor of being appreciated by the old master—these were things no amount of money could buy.
Just as incredulous were Tian Shao and Ling Qianli.
Tian Shao was alright; he had dealt with Jiang Chen before and knew him somewhat, suspecting this young man's background was far from simple and that he frequently made astonishing moves.
Ling Qianli was encountering Jiang Chen for the first time and had been quite resistant to him earlier. Yet, this seemingly casual gesture from Jiang Chen had stunned the entire audience, overwhelming all others!
Initially, when Jiang Chen presented the wine pot, he'd claimed it was a joint gift from three people. Tian Shao hadn't commented, but Ling Qianli had felt a bit humiliated.
However, being a man of some responsibility, in that situation, he couldn't exactly disclaim everything. All he could do was grit his teeth, share Jiang Chen's fate—both glory and disgrace—and endure the mocking laughter alongside him.
But now, with a sudden turn, the previous humiliation and laughter had become an immense source of pride, transforming into the finale treasure that eclipsed everyone else!
Even the typically composed Ling Qianli couldn't help but feel a spark of pride. He was a proud man who had always craved recognition and to be held in high regard.
Therefore, on the path of martial arts, he was exceptionally persistent, seeking only to stand above others and be looked up to.
And in this moment, he truly experienced the feeling of being looked up to.
Although this feeling wasn't something he had earned himself, he couldn't help but find it intensely satisfying.
Even the most reclusive person, deep down, yearned to be acknowledged, respected, and looked up to. Ling Qianli was no exception.
Tian Shao chuckled, "Brother Jiang, I've inadvertently basked in your glory once more. I won't compete with you for the chance to question the old master later."
"Hehe, we're brothers, why be so precise about things?"
Tian Shao hastily waved his hands, "Forget it, forget it. I'm a military man; whether I ask the old master or not, it doesn't matter much. You're young and promising—if you get some guidance, your future will be boundless."
Ling Qianli felt somewhat awkward, his heart in a turmoil. He knew that while Jiang Chen had previously stated the credit belonged to the three of them working together, he, Ling Qianli, couldn't brazenly claim a share of this merit.
To put it bluntly, they were just along for the ride.
Yet, Ling Qianli was genuinely tempted. Although he hadn't previously imagined having the chance to pose a question to the old master, now that the opportunity was right before him, he was indeed moved. He had hit a certain bottleneck in his martial arts path, always just one step away but unable to cross it.
If he could take that step, he would break through his cocoon and transform.
So, he hesitated, biting his lip lightly. Ultimately, his pursuit and persistence in martial arts overcame his reserve, and he stammered, "Jiang Chen, can... can we discuss one thing?"
"No problem," Jiang Chen waved a hand. "I have no questions of my own. If you want to ask, you can have both chances."
Jiang Chen genuinely had nothing to ask. Theoretically, his past self had far too much knowledge. Even if the old master was an immortal monument of the Tiangui Kingdom, the idea of him guiding Jiang Chen was nothing short of absurd.
"What?" Ling Qianli almost doubted he'd heard correctly.
"Brother Jiang, you..." Tian Shao also felt stunned.
Jiang Chen gestured dismissively. "I said it before: if we're brothers, don't be so polite. How about this, for fairness, you each get one question."
According to the treasure-presentation rules, the winner received two opportunities to seek guidance. Dividing them between Tian Shao and Ling Qianli seemed just right.
"Brother Jiang, you really have nothing to ask? The old master is the Protector Spirit King; his cultivation is at the very pinnacle of the Spirit Realm. If you could receive just a few words of guidance..."
"No need. I have my own path," Jiang Chen said calmly.
Tian Shao was about to say more when Consort Dan, on the stage, spoke with a smile, "Everyone, let us invite the old master to address us all!"
The audience below erupted in cheers and enthusiastic applause.