Returning Home in Glory, Longevity Dao Rhyme Warming the Homeland

Outside the secluded valley at the northern foot of the Hongmeng Mountain Range, crowds of people from all across Hongmeng had long since gathered. The banners of every race stood straight in the wind, colorful streamers covered the ancient trees at the valley entrance, and children clutched garlands woven from spirit fruits as they stood on tiptoe, gazing toward the mist-shrouded depths of the valley with anticipation in their eyes. The elders of the myriad races stood shoulder to shoulder, their expressions solemn, their eyes fixed on the secret realm's stone gate as it slowly closed and prepared to open once more. Every heart bore the weight of concern.

Shen Hao was the first to emerge from the glow of the stone gate. His plain Daoist robe had been steeped in the secret realm's origin spiritual energy and now faintly gleamed with gold. The Longevity Lotus patterns at its hem seemed to have come alive, slowly flowing and shifting. His pace was unhurried, yet every step carried the steady rhythm of one in harmony with heaven and earth. The Longevity Dao Rhyme around him was like a spring breeze; wherever it passed, the plants at the valley entrance grew greener, and even the air became warm and gentle.

"The Common Lord has returned!"

No one knew who shouted first, but thunderous cheers instantly erupted from the valley entrance. The children waved their garlands and ran toward Shen Hao, while the people of every race surged forward, tears of excitement filling their faces. Shen Hao stopped and smiled gently. With a wave of his hand, a soft Dao Rhyme spread outward, lightly steadying the crowd and preventing a crush.

"Fellow townsfolk, sorry for the wait." Shen Hao's voice was gentle yet strong, echoing through every corner of the valley entrance. "On