Waves rose and fell, and the seawater shifted from darkness to deep blue. The Vast Origin Water Palace stood quietly on the seabed, radiating bright light.
The water palace was not particularly lavish. Its construction was restrained, ancient in style and simple, with few extravagant adornments. The turtle minister led Xu Xuan toward the palace, while the aquatic creatures on either side knelt in unison, not daring to steal a glance.
Inside, dragon patterns adorned white jade pillars and beams, with several clusters of blue coral set beside them. Pearls the size of human heads hung from the ceiling, shedding a lustrous glow.
A heroic-looking young man stood in the hall. Wooden horns grew from his forehead, and white scales covered his neck. Exquisite, dark wave patterns adorned his white robes. His presence was unfathomable, already joined as one with the entire sea.
"The noble blood of South Mist has finally arrived. I've been waiting quite some time."
Dragon Prince Lanqing looked at Xu Xuan, his gaze darkening almost imperceptibly before turning to genuine delight.
Hearing the other man address him as being from South Mist, Xu Xuan formed a few guesses, but said little for now. He merely asked in a deep voice:
"Why have you summoned me here, Dragon Prince Lanqing?"
Xu Xuan discreetly examined the water palace, but sensed nothing extraordinary. He turned his gaze to Dragon Prince Lanqing instead. The other man's horns resembled ancient wood, and his scales were white. Perhaps this was the difference between their two lineages.
"Come inside, and we'll talk."
Dongfang Lanqing laughed heartily and led Xu Xuan farther into the palace. They took their seats together, both dragons sitting to the side. The principal seat, carved from precious jade, remained empty. Presumably, it belonged to the Dragon King.
"Youdu, you