"We pay our respects to Your Highness the Crown Prince!"
As the Carp King and the others cried out in unison, their voices surged like ocean waves, raising a mighty swell of sound that echoed across the lakebed.
Seeing this, Wang Baishun hurried forward and said with a smile:
"Now, now! There's no need for such formalities. Please, rise."
His voice was warm and gentle, inspiring goodwill almost despite oneself.
The Carp King and the others slowly rose, but their movements were somewhat stiff. They were clearly in awe of Wang Baishun's status.
Seeing this, Wang Baishun hastily explained:
"This is merely one of my external incarnations, sent here specifically to gain experience. So please continue to call me Young Master Wang!"
His tone was relaxed, as though his status meant little to him.
After hearing this, the Carp King and the others replied in unison:
"We shall do as you say, Young Master!"
Yet the ease they had shown before had vanished from their faces, replaced by a measure of restraint and reverence.
After all, Wang Baishun was the crown prince of a colossal power in the Xuanhuang World. His status was incomparably exalted, far beyond that of people from minor factions like theirs.
Wang Baishun seemed to notice their unease and said with a smile:
"Little Clan Chief, River Clan Chief, your clans must have some members whose cultivation talent has reached its limit, leaving them little room to improve.
"How about having them follow me to compete for opportunities in this Secret Realm?"
He paused, then continued:
"After all, the struggle for opportunities will inevitably cause heavy casualties.
"If disciples blessed with outstanding strength and talent take part and meet an untimely end, it would be far too great a pity.
"Besides, fighting for opportunities in