As Mu Ye appeared outside the Body Sect's mountain gate, the lingering glow of the setting sun cast a tragic golden-red sheen over the sect that had lain silent for so many years.
The gate was ancient and unadorned, even somewhat dilapidated, as though recounting the years of restraint and seclusion.
Yet when that figure, tall and straight as a pine, bearing the dust of travel and an invisible pressure, stepped onto the stone stairs one step at a time, the entire sect seemed to ignite in an instant.
"The Sect Master has returned!"
No one knew who shouted first, their voice trembling with excitement. Then, like a boulder dropped into a still lake, crowds surged forth from every direction and instantly surrounded Mu Ye.
The disciples' eyes shone with fervor and worship. Even the elders, who were usually sparing with words, could not conceal their excitement.
The air seemed to freeze, leaving only heavy breathing and stifled sobs. Every gaze was fixed on Mu Ye, so blazing that they seemed almost capable of melting him.
They looked at his slightly weary yet still resolute face, at the steady bearing of a powerful man faintly revealed beneath his travel-worn robes. An emotion called hope began to grow wildly in every heart.
Mu Ye's gaze slowly swept over one familiar or unfamiliar face after another. He could clearly feel their weighty expectations and the humiliation they had suppressed for years.
He said nothing more, merely giving a slight nod. His eyes revealed an unwavering determination. Parting the crowd, he walked with steady steps straight toward the deepest part of the sect, toward its most sacred and most silent building—the Patriarch Hall.
The Patriarch Hall had been modeled after its design from ten thousand years ago. Its doors were heavy and ancient,