From Douluo Continent onwards, Glory is invincible.

Chapter 1486 The Xiaoyao Family's Last Counterattack, The Auction's Conspiracy

She, as an imperial princess, was of unparalleled nobility, yet she had to show some restraint before Osmiran. The name Osmiran represented the Yulis family, the empire's primary economic power. If the wealth of the Xiaoyao family was like a boundless, unending river, then the Yulis family was a behemoth whose wealth rivaled that of a nation, their financial power enough to shake the entire empire.

What's even more frightening is that, despite his young age, Osmiran's ruthlessness and tyranny far exceed what most people can imagine. He schemes with the ease and skill of a child playing house, using any means necessary. Some have even said that if Osmiran could give up his collecting hobby, it wouldn't be entirely impossible for him to rule the entire Golden Wind Empire.

However, such an extreme figure is unpredictable in every move he makes. No one knows what astonishing thing he will do next, and this mysterious and dangerous aura makes him stand out among many nobles and celebrities.

At this moment, the person making the offer was none other than Osmilan. He had somehow come down from the VIP room and was lounging lazily in a VIP chair, his expression nonchalant and his demeanor exuding a frivolous air. If someone unaware of his background were to see him, they might easily mistake him for a dissolute scoundrel or a rogue.

But here at the Nightingale Auction House, a gathering place for the elite of high society, who wouldn't recognize the heir of one of the empire's four great families? Osmilan's appearance undoubtedly shocked many present.

Their expressions began to change, and whispers rose and fell. With so many nobles and celebrities gathered together, each person's words created a huge wave of sound, as if to engulf the entire auction house.

Seeing that the situation was getting out of control, the auctioneer immediately swung his gavel and brought it down heavily!

"One hundred thousand gold coins, for the first time!" The auctioneer's voice echoed throughout the auction house. "Is there a higher price?"

His question caused an immediate silence to fall over the entire hall. Everyone was stunned by the price; even the nobles and celebrities from wealthy families couldn't help but show their astonishment. One hundred thousand gold coins was no small sum; even for them, it was enough to make many people hesitate.

However, Osmilan casually quoted this price, as if it were just a number he tossed out off the top of his head. His expression remained nonchalant, his eyes gleaming with a mocking light, as if he were taunting everyone present.

After a brief silence, the crowd began to whisper and discuss among themselves. They were all speculating about the deeper meaning behind the price and why Osmilan had offered such a generous price.

Some people began to secretly plot, trying to figure out Osmilan's thoughts. They knew that although this young man appeared frivolous and carefree on the surface, he was actually very cunning, and every step he took had his purpose and plan.

At this moment, Osmilan seemed unconcerned about the discussions and speculations of the crowd. He remained reclining in his VIP chair, his eyes half-closed, as if enjoying the storm he had stirred up. A meaningful smile played on his lips, making it impossible to discern his true thoughts.

As time went on, the atmosphere in the auction house grew increasingly tense. Everyone awaited the next bid, hoping someone could break the deadlock and challenge Osmilan.

However, to everyone's surprise, no one dared to bid again in the following time. They were all intimidated by Osmilan's imposing presence and unwilling to easily provoke him.

Finally, when the auctioneer raised the gavel again, the entire hall fell silent. Everyone knew that the item had been successfully purchased by Osmilan for a staggering 100,000 gold coins.

Osmilan sat in the spacious and luxurious private room, the soft, comfortable chair behind him exuding confidence and languidness. His gaze casually swept around, finally settling on Lin Fan at the side entrance. Lin Fan stood there, not radiating any particularly powerful aura, yet Osmilan felt an unusual sense of presence from him.

After observing for only a short while, Osmilan noticed the inexplicable tacit understanding and connection between Lin Fan and Suzaku. He secretly pondered that this duo was definitely not simple. Lin Fan seemed to be hiding many unknown secrets, and Suzaku's attitude towards him was also quite special.

Thinking this, a sly glint flashed in Osmilan's eyes. He had always enjoyed playing power games and was adept at seizing opportunities in various situations. Now, this seemingly ordinary Lin Fan had actually piqued his interest. He decided to take this opportunity to play a fun game with the carefree dog-headed man.

"Brother Xiaoyao, let it go," Jin Fei advised from the side, her expression somewhat dejected. "Even if Father himself intervenes, that guy might not agree."

Jin Fei, as a royal princess, was usually pampered and had never experienced such a setback. She knew Lin Fan was difficult to deal with and understood that taking the Vermilion Bird from him would not be easy. However, Xiaoyao Gou Tou was an extremely proud and competitive person; how could he tolerate losing face in front of a mere Lin Fan?

"No way!" Xiaoyao Gou Tou said through gritted teeth, his eyes flashing with furious fire. "What Her Highness wants, I, Xiaoyao Gou Tou, will do everything in my power to get it for her!"

Having said that, he took a deep breath and raised his paddle again to bid: "120,000!"

The moment the price was announced, a murmur rippled through the auction hall. Many began whispering, debating whether the price was worthwhile. However, for Xiaoyao Gou Tou, this wasn't just about acquiring the Vermilion Bird; it was also about saving face.

Seeing this, Osmilan merely smiled contemptuously. He looked at Xiaoyao Goutou with amusement, as if watching a clown jumping around. Then, he casually raised his paddle again: "Fifty thousand."

This price put unprecedented pressure on Xiaoyao Gou Tou. He understood that Osmilan was deliberately provoking him, wanting to see how far he could go. But how could he give up so easily? This was not only about his reputation, but also about his promise to Princess Jinfei.

"180,000!" Xiaoyao Gou Tou gritted his teeth and made another offer.

However, Osmilan didn't seem satisfied with the price. He snapped his fingers lightly, without even lifting his eyelids: "Two hundred thousand."

This price hit Xiaoyao Gou Tou like a hammer blow, leaving him dazed and disoriented. It far exceeded his budget and even crossed the bottom line of the Xiaoyao family. He knew that if he continued to bid, he would likely face reprimands from the family elders.

But how could he give up so easily? He clenched his fists tightly, his eyes gleaming with unwavering determination. He knew he couldn't be defeated by Osmilan like this. He had to find a way to turn the tide and salvage some pride.

"I..." Xiaoyao Gou Tou opened his mouth, but didn't know what to say. His heart was filled with helplessness and resentment, but even more so with longing and obsession for Lin Fan and Zhu Que. He understood that he was now in a dilemma. But no matter what, he couldn't give up his pursuit and dignity so easily.

Meanwhile, Osmilan grew increasingly smug. He enjoyed watching Xiaoyao Gou Tou's anxious yet helpless expression; it gave him a strange sense of pleasure. He knew he had firmly grasped the initiative in this game, and as long as he continued to apply pressure, Xiaoyao Gou Tou would eventually break down. However, he hadn't anticipated how this game would ultimately end…

The atmosphere in the bustling auction house was tense and exciting. Xiaoyao Gou Tou's face was somewhat gloomy, his gaze fixed on the amethyst jade necklace on the auction stage. Although the necklace was adorned with no spiritual objects, it exuded an indescribable mysterious aura, captivating all who beheld it.

"Brother Xiaoyao, I appreciate your kindness." A gentle voice came from beside him, but it carried a hint of helplessness. "However, we really can't afford to offend that madman. No one has ever gotten the better of him."

Upon hearing this, Xiaoyao Gou Tou frowned, a surge of resentment welling up inside him. "No, I can't swallow this!" His voice revealed unwavering determination. He was determined to possess this necklace, not only because of its mystery and beauty, but also because it represented the glory and dignity of the Xiaoyao family.

"Two hundred and fifty thousand!" Xiaoyao Gou Tou took a deep breath and announced the final price he could afford. The moment the number was uttered, a clamor erupted around him. However, to everyone's astonishment, Osmilan merely chuckled, a disdainful expression on his face.

"No fun at all, getting this angry so quickly." Osmilan said indifferently, his tone full of sarcasm. "Just another kid from the Xiaoyao family, huh~ I'm not playing with you anymore~"

After saying that, he casually announced a new price: "Four hundred thousand!"

This figure was like a bombshell, instantly igniting heated discussions in the auction house. Everyone was shocked by the price; a seemingly ordinary amethyst necklace had been driven to such an astronomical price! Such an achievement, indeed, could only be accomplished by a madman like Osmiran across the entire continent.

The first floor was in complete chaos, while in the VIP room on the second floor, Zhan Hun slowly shook his head. He looked intently at Osmilan, understanding that today's auction had turned into a contest of honor and dignity.

"Looks like that Osmilan guy is determined to take it from me today," Zhan Hun muttered to himself. His eyes gleamed with starlight, revealing an indomitable spirit.

"How can that be?" Zhan Hun grinned. "I, Zhan Hun, am not someone to be trifled with!" His voice wasn't loud, but it was full of confidence and determination. Usentan, who had come upon hearing this, also stared intently at Lin Fan, his whole body trembling! He knew Zhan Hun's character; once he made up his mind, he would never give up easily.

Lin Fan, standing at the side entrance of the Nightingale Auction House, was experiencing a completely different feeling. He stared blankly at the obese man with a playful look in his eyes—Osmiran. This was the first time he had felt the immense allure of money so closely. In this prestigious and elegant setting, Osmiran, like a tyrant in the world of money, ignored all hostility and recklessly squandered his wealth and power.

"So it's Lord Osmilan!" Lin Fan thought to himself. "No wonder he spends money like water." He had witnessed Osmilan's domineering and arrogant attitude during the auction and deeply understood the enormous influence that money could have in this world. This feeling filled Lin Fan with anticipation and longing for the future, and at the same time strengthened his determination to work hard.

But Osmilan and Xiaoyao Gou Tou showed no signs of giving up. They seemed to be using this method to demonstrate their determination and strength to each other. The surrounding audience was also captivated by the fierce bidding, holding their breath and waiting for the final result.

However, just when everyone thought the auction was about to end in Osmilan's victory, an unexpected voice suddenly rang out: "Five hundred thousand!"

Everyone turned to look in the direction of the voice, and saw a young man dressed in fine clothes walk out from the crowd. He looked at Osmilan and Xiaoyao Gou Tou with a smile, "Since you two like this necklace so much, then I'd like to join in the fun."

The young man's appearance instantly shattered the balance of the auction, causing the previously calm auction house to erupt in excitement once more. Everyone was speculating about his identity and background, while also anticipating what kind of changes he would bring to the bidding process.

Osmilan and Xiaoyao Gou Tou exchanged bewildered glances, neither of them having anticipated such an unexpected turn of events. However, given the circumstances, they had no choice but to grit their teeth and continue bidding, hoping to finally acquire the necklace they had long coveted. Thus, a new round of competition began, and the atmosphere in the auction house reached an unprecedented climax.

In the bustling auction hall, the atmosphere gradually heated up. One precious item after another was displayed, causing ripples of excitement among the attendees. However, the most eye-catching item was the amethyst necklace, its crystal-clear appearance and captivating luster drawing countless admirers.

Suzaku sat in the corner, her gaze inadvertently sweeping over the necklace, a strange glint in her eyes. Just then, she heard whispers beside her, seemingly discussing a familiar name.

"Do you know him too?" a voice asked softly.

Zhuque turned her head and saw a familiar face beside her. She nodded slightly, her expression quite complicated, and replied, "Yes, he is Osmiran. He has immense wealth behind him, is arrogant, and has an extreme style. In the capital's circles, very few dare to challenge him directly."

At this point, a hint of helplessness flashed in Suzaku's eyes. Although she despised Osmiran's extravagant and arrogant behavior, she had to admit that he certainly had the right. The Yulis family, as one of the four great families of the empire, possessed undeniable influence and power. In contrast, her own Cang family had gradually declined in recent years, a world apart from the Yulis family. Thinking of this, Suzaku felt even more dejected.

Just as the two were talking, the climax of the auction finally arrived. The amethyst necklace was brought to the auction stage, with a starting price of 300,000 gold coins. This price was undoubtedly an astronomical figure for ordinary people, but those present were all powerful and wealthy people from the capital, and they all raised their paddles to bid, making the scene extremely intense.

Suzaku also silently watched the auction. She saw Osmiran raise his paddle with a mocking expression, increasing the bid by fifty thousand, then one hundred thousand each time. Under his lead, the price of the necklace quickly climbed, soon breaking the four hundred thousand gold coin mark.

"Four hundred thousand, three times!" the auctioneer shouted, his face flushed, his voice brimming with excitement. With his gavel, the entire hall erupted in enthusiastic applause and cheers. Osmilan's obese face also revealed undisguised smugness. He glanced around, his gaze finally settling on the distorted, furious face of the carefree dog-head.

As the young master of another prominent family, Xiaoyao Gou Tou was usually arrogant and domineering. But at this moment, facing Osmiran, he seemed utterly powerless. He gritted his teeth, his eyes blazing with fury as he stared at Osmiran, seemingly wanting nothing more than to pounce on him and tear him to pieces. However, he also knew that he was no match for Osmiran. In terms of both wealth and strength, he was far inferior to him.

Osmilan seemed to enjoy the feeling of trampling his opponent underfoot. He chuckled wickedly as he walked up to Xiaoyao Gou Tou and said in a mocking tone, "Young Master Xiaoyao, long time no see~ You look even more handsome!"

The carefree dog-headed man snorted angrily, his face extremely ugly. He suppressed his rage and coldly asked, "Lord Osmilan, you flatter me. But I don't understand why a 'big' man like you would compete with me for that amethyst necklace worn by a woman?"

Osmilan burst into laughter upon hearing this. He patted Xiaoyao on the shoulder and said in a feignedly intimate tone, "Young Master Xiaoyao, you don't understand, do you? This necklace may look like it's worn by a woman, but its value goes far beyond that. I have my reasons for buying it. As for you, consider it a small gift for me! Hahaha!"

After saying this, Osmilan turned and strode away, leaving Xiaoyao Gou Tou trembling with rage, utterly helpless. Zhuque, too, witnessed the ugly face of the powerful and the vast disparity between families in this farce. She sighed deeply, her resolve to improve her strength and revitalize her family strengthened even further.

Born into a prestigious family, Xiaoyao Gou Tou had been instilled with strict upbringing and a strong sense of social status since childhood. At this moment, although he was filled with anger, reason prevailed. He knew perfectly well that in such a noble setting, any impolite behavior could become fodder for gossip. More importantly, if he lost his composure here, even if he could remain calm on his own, he would certainly face his father's severe reprimand upon returning to the family, and it could even result in a significant loss of face for the family.

At this moment, Osmilan's slightly mocking voice rang out: "Well, you'll find out soon enough~" His tone was nonchalant, as if he were oblivious to Xiaoyao Gou Tou's anger. After speaking, his gaze swept across the crowd, finally settling on Princess Jinfei. His eyes held a chilling depth, sending shivers down one's spine. He gently shook his head, a half-smile playing on his lips, and slowly spoke: "Your Highness, may I ask what brings you to this unauthorized departure from the palace?"

Princess Jinfei's originally haughty demeanor involuntarily softened under Osmilan's sharp gaze. Although she was usually arrogant and conceited, she had to be cautious in front of this powerful figure who held the power of impeachment and a pivotal position in the empire, fearing that her words and actions would become a weapon for his attack. Jinfei was secretly on guard, but she tried her best to remain calm on the surface, attempting to respond to any situation with composure.

"Lord Osmilan, how did you know I left the palace without permission?" Jinfei retorted, her voice tinged with a stubborn refusal to admit defeat. She didn't want the other party to see through her thoughts so easily, especially in such a public setting.

Upon hearing this, Osmilan burst into laughter, his laughter filled with sarcasm: "Hahaha, Your Highness's behavior is known throughout the country. Such childish behavior as leaving the palace without permission is not a first or second time for you." As soon as he finished speaking, the surrounding air seemed to freeze for a moment. Everyone held their breath, awaiting Princess Jinfei's reaction.

Princess Jinfei's face instantly turned ugly. Just as she was about to lash out, Osmiran changed the subject and said in an almost teasing tone, "Uh... please let me guess the purpose of your trip, okay?" His eyes gleamed with cunning, as if he had already seen through Princess Jinfei's true intentions.

Princess Jinfei froze, her anger about to erupt abruptly halted by Osmiran's words. She looked uneasily at Osmiran's mischievous grin, her heart pounding. Her purpose in coming here was indeed to register for the Divine Martial Arts Tournament. However, her father, the Emperor, firmly opposed her participation, believing it would be beneath the dignity of the royal family. But Princess Jinfei was stubborn and unwilling to admit defeat; the more she was forbidden to do something, the more determined she became. Now, being exposed so openly by Osmiran, she couldn't help but feel flustered.

"First, you need to register for the Divine Martial Arts Tournament, don't you agree? His Majesty doesn't want you to participate, but you insist on doing so." Osmiran pressed on relentlessly, each word like a heavy blow to Princess Jinfei's heartstrings. His words were full of mockery and provocation, as if he were deliberately trying to provoke this proud princess.

Princess Jinfei's heart skipped a beat, and her expression grew increasingly unnatural. She wanted to deny it, but the words wouldn't come out. Osmiran was telling the truth; her purpose in coming was indeed to participate in the Divine Martial Tournament. However, as a princess, how could she easily admit to her willful behavior? So, she could only steel herself and stubbornly say, "Lord Osmiran, you're really joking." After saying this, she could almost feel the slight heat rising on her cheeks—a complex mix of embarrassment and shame at having her lie exposed.

Osmilan paid no attention to the reactions around him, laughing to himself with a sly glint in his eyes. He spoke slowly, his voice tinged with amusement: "Next, let's have our carefree young master 'buy' something at the Nanding Auction House." As soon as he finished speaking, the atmosphere in the auction house became somewhat awkward.

Xiaoyao Gou Tou stood not far away, his eyes twitching slightly. He sensed the provocation in Osmilan's words, and a surge of anger welled up inside him. However, he knew this was not the time to lose his temper, so he suppressed his anger and tried his best to keep his expression calm.

Osmilan seemed to enjoy this game of testing others' limits. He continued leisurely, "Young Master Xiaoyao is really something, handsome and rich. What's a few pennies to him for Her Highness the Princess? However, I also really like this amethyst necklace. I'm sorry, Your Highness, I'm afraid I'll have to disappoint you, hahaha~"

After saying this, Osmilan burst into laughter, completely disregarding his image. His laughter echoed throughout the auction house, as if deliberately provoking them. Just as the two were about to erupt in anger, he turned and left with a flourish, leaving behind a plump but somewhat smug silhouette.

Jinfei watched Osmilan's departing figure and stomped her foot angrily. She gritted her teeth and said, "That despicable Osmilan, one day I'll make you regret your foolish actions today!" Her voice was full of anger and determination, as if she already regarded Osmilan as a future enemy.

At this moment, Xiaoyao Gou Tou's face had turned ashen. He clenched his fists, seemingly trying his best to control his emotions. Jin Fei glanced at him, a hint of worry in her heart. She bit her red lips, ultimately choosing silence and saying nothing more.

The intermission of the auction had finally arrived, but before the guests could fully relax, the auctioneer on stage waved his hand again, signaling for silence. With an air of lingering enthusiasm, he announced loudly, "Distinguished guests, at Miss Nightingale's request, we will be intermission with two rare items. Please be patient, the excitement is about to continue!"

Upon hearing the news, many people, though reluctant, still turned their attention to the auction stage. They knew that every auction at Nightingale Auction House never disappointed, especially the rare items auctioned midway through the day. The atmosphere in the auction house tensed once more, everyone hoping the upcoming auction would bring even more surprises and gains.

Meanwhile, Osmilan had already left the auction house. Standing in the shadows outside, a smug smile played on his lips. He knew his actions had successfully angered Jin Fei and Xiaoyao Gou Tou; the game seemed to be getting increasingly interesting. He looked forward to what would happen next, anticipating even more fun and satisfaction in this game.

Meanwhile, the auctioneer began introducing the first item to be auctioned. It was an exquisite jade artifact, crystal clear and radiating a soft glow. The auctioneer spoke eloquently about the jade's provenance and characteristics, attempting to build tension. The guests below the stage began to whisper among themselves, discussing the value of the piece and the likelihood of a successful bid.

The auctioneer slowly retrieved a blue book from the audience. The book exuded an ancient and mysterious aura, as if it held boundless wisdom and secrets. He held the book high in the air, his face beaming with a smile, his eyes gleaming with cunning and anticipation. He glanced around at the guests, sensing their renewed curiosity.

"Ladies and gentlemen," the auctioneer finally spoke, his voice loud and infectious, "this is no ordinary beginner's manual for spiritual masters. Its owner was a young man from the far east. If you are interested in the profession of spiritual master, or intend to develop in this field, then please listen to my detailed explanation."

These words silenced the previously whispering and distracted guests, who immediately focused their attention on the auctioneer. They knew that any item offered for auction must be extraordinary. The profession of a spirit master, in particular, inspired awe and longing.

However, amidst the group of attentive guests, Xiaoyao Gou Tou suddenly felt a chill. He abruptly turned his head, looking towards the appraisal room. In that fleeting glance, he saw two familiar figures—Lin Fan and Zhu Que. A surge of anger welled up within Xiaoyao Gou Tou; those two damned bastards were actually here too!

He turned around, staring coldly at the Spirit Master's Manual. A chilling smile played on his lips, as if he were already plotting a scheme against Lin Fan and Zhuque.

Spirit Masters, this noble and ancient profession, hold a pivotal position in the world of martial arts cultivators. They are renowned for analyzing divine battles and assessing the levels of martial arts cultivators. Although fewer in number than martial artists, their status is far higher. This is because a famous Spirit Master often attracts a large number of martial arts cultivators, becoming someone they eagerly seek to befriend.

Local powers, in their efforts to win over these powerful cultivators, often seek entry points through Spirit Masters. A novice Spirit Master can identify at least hundreds of divine battles and assess all levels below the Battle King. Their existence is undoubtedly an extremely valuable resource for powerful cultivators eager to find divine battle partners.

Intermediate and advanced spirit masters are even more formidable, possessing unfathomable strength and knowledge. They are often taken along by powerful cultivators who attempt to explore dangerous areas, becoming indispensable partners and advisors.

As the importance of the Spirit Master profession has become increasingly apparent, various countries have begun to prioritize the training of Spirit Masters. They hope to enhance their overall strength and influence by popularizing the knowledge and skills of Spirit Masters. Therefore, knowledge about Spirit Masters is being disseminated widely in various ways, and writing is one of the important avenues for this.

The blue book in the auctioneer's hands was clearly a precious secret record of knowledge about spirit masters. It not only documented the basic knowledge and skills required for novice spirit masters, but also likely contained the unique insights and experiences of that young man from the East. For those aspiring to become spirit masters, this was undoubtedly an extremely valuable treasure.

"Ladies and gentlemen," the auctioneer continued, "the owner of this secret manual was a gifted spiritualist. In his short life, he performed countless miracles and left behind this precious manual. Now, it is right before your eyes. If you aspire to become a spiritualist, or wish to learn more about this profession, then don't miss this opportunity."

As the auctioneer finished speaking, the atmosphere in the room instantly became tense. Everyone stared at the blue book, their eyes gleaming with fervent desire. They knew that this secret manual not only represented boundless wisdom and opportunity, but could also be the key to changing their destiny.

Meanwhile, Xiaoyao Gou Tou was even more excited. He had always harbored a great interest and ambition in the profession of Spirit Master, and seeing this secret manual only strengthened his resolve. He not only wanted to acquire this manual, but also to use this opportunity to demonstrate his strength and determination to Lin Fan and Zhuque. He wanted to make them pay the price for their actions in the future!

The market is flooded with a dazzling array of Spirit Master manuals, ranging from low to high price, making it difficult to distinguish the genuine from the fake. This leads many cultivators who fail in PvP and turn to Spirit Mastership to inadvertently fall into traps of counterfeit goods, wasting considerable time and money in their search for the true path. In this chaotic market, however, the Nanding Auction House has earned the trust of numerous cultivators through its consistent reputation and credibility.

Inside the Nightingale Auction House, the atmosphere was both lively and solemn. On the auction stage, a seemingly ordinary beginner's spiritual master's manual lay quietly, yet it exuded a mysterious and alluring aura. This manual was unlike any other auctioned before; it was the first mysterious work to be publicly auctioned by the Nightingale Auction House.

"Distinguished guests, what makes this beginner's guide to spiritual mastery so special?" The auctioneer stood on the stage, a confident smile on his face, and slowly began to speak. "Actually, I only need to provide two pieces of information, and you will be able to understand its secrets."

The auctioneer paused, glanced around, and seeing everyone intently awaiting his next move, his smugness grew even stronger. Then, he dropped his first bombshell: "Firstly, the author of this beginner's guide to spiritual master secrets is named Divine Art Source."

As soon as the words were spoken, a murmur arose from the crowd below. Divine Source? This name was unfamiliar to most. However, to those with a deep understanding of the world of spirit masters, this name was like a bolt from the blue, deeply shocking.

"The source of divine magic? Could it be that legendary master spirit master?"

"Impossible! How could his secret manual be here?"

"If it's true, then the value of this secret manual is immeasurable!"

Just as everyone was discussing this, the auctioneer spoke again, dropping a second bombshell: "Secondly, the Divine Source holds a position in the world of Spirit Masters that is akin to that of the Prophet of the Hidden Divine Hall!"

Upon hearing this, the entire auction house fell silent. The Prophet of the Hidden Divine Hall was a supreme being in the hearts of all cultivators, a pinnacle figure in the world of Spirit Masters. And yet, the Source of Divine Arts could be compared to him? This was simply unbelievable!

However, the auctioneer's words were like a pebble thrown into a calm lake, creating ripples. Those who had initially harbored doubts were now filled with astonishment. Then, astonishment turned into eagerness, and their distinguished faces radiated an intense desire to bid!

Seeing the crowd's reaction, the auctioneer was secretly pleased. He knew that these two pieces of information he had revealed were enough to double the value of this beginner-level spirit master's manual. Without further ado, he announced the starting price: "Starting bid, ten thousand gold! Let's begin!"

As the auctioneer finished speaking, the entire auction house erupted in excitement once more. Ten thousand gold coins—while not an astronomical sum for everyone present—was just the starting price for a beginner's spiritual master's manual! However, when considering the significance and value behind this manual, everyone felt that the price wasn't excessive.

"Fifteen thousand gold coins!" Someone eagerly raised their bidding paddle.

"Twenty thousand gold coins!" another voice followed closely behind.

"Twenty-five thousand gold coins!" The bidding price continued to climb, with everyone wanting to acquire this precious secret manual.

Inside the auction house, the atmosphere reached a fever pitch. Everyone's eyes were fixed on the beginner-level spirit master's manual on the auction stage, as if it were the key to unlocking the pinnacle of spirit mastery. The auctioneer stood aside, smiling as he watched everything unfold, secretly calculating how high the final price would be.

As the auctioneer's voice faded, the entire auction hall fell into a brief silence. Lin Fan stood in a corner, feeling his muscles involuntarily tense, as if awaiting some important moment. He turned to look at Zhu Que beside him, only to see her slender, jade-like hands gripping his arm tightly, with a force so great that it caused him slight pain.

From Zhuque's trembling hands and solemn expression, Lin Fan deeply understood what it meant to be filled with anxiety and fear. She was worried that the price might be too high, resulting in no one showing interest, since it was of great significance to them.

However, this tense atmosphere didn't last long. Just as Lin Fan was feeling uneasy, a loud voice suddenly broke the silence.

"Twelve thousand!" A wealthy elderly man with purple hair stood up and quoted the price without hesitation. His voice revealed his determination to win, which invigorated everyone present.

Lin Fan and Zhuque exchanged a smile, a weight finally lifted from their hearts. The price had exceeded their expectations, but the auction had only just begun, and they still hoped to see even higher bids.

Sure enough, as soon as the old man finished speaking, another middle-aged man in a silver robe followed up with a bid: "Fifteen thousand!" His voice was steady and powerful, as if he were secretly competing with the old man with purple hair.

"Sixteen thousand!" The purple-haired old man was not to be outdone and immediately raised the price.

"Eighteen thousand!" The middle-aged man in the silver robe continued to bid without backing down.

However, amidst this joyous atmosphere, a cold gaze remained fixed on Lin Fan. It was Xiaoyao Gou Tou; ever since discovering Lin Fan's presence, his already burning rage had been filled with hatred. He couldn't accept that the enemy he had been searching for was here, and participating in the auction in such a high-profile manner.

Xiaoyao Gou Tou clenched his fists, his knuckles turning white from the force. He gritted his teeth, wishing he could rush forward and tear Lin Fan to shreds. But reason told him that now was not the time to act impulsively. He had to remain calm and wait for the right opportunity to deliver a fatal blow to Lin Fan.

Jin Fei, who was standing nearby, noticed Xiaoyao Gou Tou's unusual behavior. She frowned slightly and asked softly, "Brother Xiaoyao, why are you staring at that mysterious boy? Is there anything special about him?" Jin Fei's voice was gentle and concerned, trying to soothe the anger in Xiaoyao Gou Tou's heart.

But Xiaoyao Gou Tou didn't answer her question immediately. He took a deep breath, trying to calm himself. After a long while, he slowly spoke, his voice filled with boundless hatred: "That Sword God Lin Fan is the opponent I've been searching for. He inflicted upon me unprecedented humiliation and defeat. I swear, I will make him regret ever being born!"