Chapter 99

Chapter 99

With two Epic-grade equipment pieces, Qin Han could defeat most Profession holders of the same level. The attributes of Epic-grade equipment could improve alongside the owner's strength. Although their stats were only slightly higher than ordinary Dark Gold Equipment, the true power of Epic-grade gear lay in their innate skills. When used at critical moments, these skills could turn the tide of battle. In his past life, many had jokingly referred to Epic-grade equipment as "Little Unique Treasures."

"Thunder Domain? Energy-storing skills like this are rare and cumbersome to use, but the more demanding they are, the greater their power. Since we're at Thunder Lake, I might as well charge it up now for emergencies!"

Qin Han picked up the Red Flood Demon Armor and collected all the gold coins scattered on the ground. Then, he rummaged through his backpack for a sturdy rope, tying one end to the plate armor and the other to Nightmare's leg.

"Nightmare, I have a task for you. Take this armor for a stroll in Thunder Lake and make sure it absorbs as much lightning energy as possible. Got it?"

Nightmare snorted loudly, its crimson eyes brimming with displeasure. Its expression seemed to say, "A noble steed like me, reduced to walking low-tier equipment? How degrading!"

Qin Han coaxed, "Do a good job, and I'll treat you to braised beef later. Ah, you have no idea how delicious it is! Mmm!"

Before he could finish, Nightmare bolted away as if afraid Qin Han might change his mind.

Qin Han rubbed his nose with a dry chuckle, then composed himself into a dignified stance and turned toward the Altar.

At the Altar, the commoners grew restless at his approach. After all, this was the man who had slain the High Priest—someone far beyond their league. Many turned to flee, but then Elder Lei removed his helmet, wiped away his disguise, and raised his voice.

"Fellow islanders! I am Lei Ao Tian, an elder of our clan. Many of you have seen me before. I long knew the High Priest was a Monster Beast plotting to destroy our Thunder Poison Island, so I sought Young Hero Qin's aid. Now that the High Priest is dead, our island is safe at last. Should we not welcome our great hero, Young Hero Qin?"

Beside him, Li Yang clenched his fist and thrust it into the air, leading the chant: "Long live Young Hero Qin!"

"Long live Young Hero Qin!"

The crowd, as if possessed, echoed the cry.

"Long live Young Hero Qin!"

Qin Han, who preferred to keep a low profile, forced himself forward despite the overwhelming reception. With a wave of his hand, silence fell. He glanced at Li Yang, whose fist was still raised, and muttered, "You always manage to come up with something new, don’t you?"

Misinterpreting the remark as praise, Li Yang beamed inwardly, already brainstorming new ways to please Qin Han in the future.

Qin Han swept his gaze over the crowd. "Elder Lei and Lan Xin will stay. The rest of you, disperse."

To the people of Thunder Poison Island, Qin Han's words now carried more weight than an imperial decree.

In just a short while, the entire Altar was completely deserted, leaving only the Sword Dojo's mistress, Lan Xin, and Elder Lei. At this moment, Lan Xin had already been freed from her restraints. With the High Priest dead, the mental influence over her had vanished. Yet, the thought of the absurd things she had done during these past days filled her with unbearable shame.

"Qin... Young Hero Qin, can I not go back? After committing such acts, how could I ever face my husband again?"

Qin Han replied, "You were under mental control—you had no choice. You can't blame yourself, and your husband will understand. Besides, the High Priest is dead now. You have no support left here, and you’ll surely have to move out of the golden house. Those who once served you won’t be around anymore. Do you really want to go hunting in the mountains with them, or marry some rough-handed hunter and spend your days washing clothes and bearing children?"