Snake Lance Douluo's Fright and Gu Yue's Family

Spirit Hall was powerful and ambitious. The subsidies it paid Soul Masters already gave it an enormous advantage and reputation. If Grandmaster joined Spirit Hall as well, its influence in the Soul Master World would undergo a staggering transformation. When the time came, a single call from it might rally hundreds of Soul Masters.

"Fortunately, the First Prince was sharp enough to recruit Tang Shan and Su Yuntao first. If they had come into contact with Spirit Hall's inner circle, and Spirit Hall had noticed their connection to Grandmaster, the consequences would have been unthinkable."

The auction had long since begun, but Ning Fengzhi had no interest in the items on offer. Relief was written all over his face.

"They'll find out sooner or later."

Sword Douluo also recognized the unseen danger Tang Shan might bring. He said gravely, "The Thousand-Year Second Ring is one thing. Any major faction willing to spend enough could raise someone with one. But as far as I know, not a single faction has managed to cultivate a Thousand-Year First Ring. Once Tang Shan's achievement becomes known, Spirit Hall will certainly take notice. Then it's only a matter of time before they discover his connection to Grandmaster."

Ning Fengzhi tapped the armrest of his ornate chair. His gaze was sharp and intent.

"We'll keep it hidden as long as we can. It mustn't come out yet. We need to buy the First Prince time and strengthen Tang Shan's sense of belonging to the Heaven Dou Empire. And the fact that the First Prince encountered Tang Shan—could it be that destiny favors him? It seems I must propose becoming his teacher to His Majesty as soon as possible. I can't wait any longer."

"If Tang Shan's true background comes to light, it may tempt some of