The jade waters lay deep and still, reflecting the flow of morning and evening.
The great hall was silent as the grave. The juniors in the side hall did not know the gravity of the occasion, but the Purple Mansion cultivators understood etiquette and propriety.
Ao Qian's expression turned solemn. He was the first to prostrate himself on the ground, calling out:
"Greetings, Ancestor!"
At his cry, the Purple Mansion cultivators present bowed their heads and followed him in obeisance, saying in unison:
"Greetings, Dragon Lord!"
Within the boundless sea, ten thousand fathoms deep, only a fleeting glimpse of scales and claws passed across the crystalline canopy overhead, yet it cast an immense black shadow.
Brilliant golden arcs of lightning spread, flowing like fiery trees laden with golden blossoms. Not the slightest thunder sounded, yet a chill gripped every heart, leaving no one daring to entertain stray thoughts.
After a long while, the wondrous signs faded. Ao Qian slowly straightened and smiled at the many Purple Mansion cultivators in the hall.
Naturally, the Dragon Lord could not possibly visit the Water Palace in person. Merely swimming a circuit through the deep sea and allowing those below to glimpse his form was already an immense favor.
Ao Qian would preside over the ensuing banquet in full. Narrowing his slender eyes, he climbed step by step to the throne on the raised dais, then turned and spoke with a soft chuckle:
"The Ancestor has received the goodwill of all my fellow cultivators. His lordship has instructed me to Xie you all. There is no need for further ceremony."
Not everyone could withstand the pressure of a Golden Core cultivator. Hearing the River-Confluence Dragon King speak, the Purple Mansion cultivators present visibly relaxed, straightening their backs as a little Birth returned to them.