The crowd was slow to leave after Godwind Academy's match ended.
Many still stood where they were, staring at the crater the Clear Sky Hammer had smashed into the center of the arena. Several academy teachers spoke in low voices, their gazes drifting toward Tang San. The younger generation did not recognize the hammer, but the older generation could hardly pretend they had never seen it.
The Clear Sky Sect had closed its Mountain Gate for years, yet the Clear Sky Hammer remained widely acknowledged as one of the continent's finest tool Martial Souls.
Tang San had barely stepped off the arena when Salas approached with two Spirit Hall Deacons.
"Tang San, a moment, please."
Grandmaster's expression shifted. He stepped to his disciple's side first. "Is there something you need, Platinum Bishop?"
Salas offered a polite smile. "A Competitor possesses Twin Martial Souls. Under the rules, Spirit Hall must verify his identity again. Just a few questions. It won't take long."
Tang San glanced around.
The two Deacons had positioned themselves carefully, blocking the way back to Shrek's viewing area. Near the VIP seats, several gazes were fixed on him, their Soul Power fluctuations kept low.
He was about to speak when a hand reached from behind and settled on Salas's shoulder.
"Verifying his identity?"
Bai Jin stood beside him with a beaming smile. "I'm excellent at that. Name: Tang San. Age: fourteen. Martial Souls: Blue Silver Grass and the Clear Sky Hammer. Shrek Academy Competitor. Verification complete. He can go home for dinner."
Salas's shoulder sank.
He tried to step forward, but his shoes might as well have been nailed to the ground. Bai Jin's hand had used little force, yet the space around them had quietly stretched. Tang San was plainly only half a step away, but Salas