All Eyes on the Horizon!

The night passed in the blink of an eye.

At dawn the next day, the sun rose in the east, its golden light breaking through the darkness.

The brilliant morning sun emerged from the horizon, casting golden rays across the boundless sea. Light shimmered over the waves, gentle yet magnificent.

Vast Sea City's harbor was already packed with people.

The imperial guards had sealed off the vast harbor in layers, leaving a broad avenue down the center for the imperial family and officials to pass through.

Civil and military officials of the Spirit Hall Empire stood in orderly ranks along both sides, formally dressed and solemn. Behind them, the powerful members of the Worship Hall had all gathered, their presence imposing.

Qian Daoliu stood at the front in a new imperial robe, straight-backed and tall. Yesterday's panic and excitement had faded from his face, leaving a solemn tenderness. He stared toward the vast horizon of the East Sea, his eyes full of hope.

Beside him stood the Great Enshrined, Qian Xichen, his white hair falling over his shoulders and a sacred golden robe draped around him. His kindly face shone with pride and anticipation.

The seven Pontiff Elders stood to either side, calm and solemn. They had withdrawn every trace of the overwhelming power with which they usually looked down upon the world. All that remained was joy.

Not far away, the leaders of Heavenly God City had arrived in full. Li Chungang stood with his hands behind his back, his sword intent restrained and his manner gentle and composed.

Kong Deming stood quietly, his expression peaceful. Ma Jinyan, Chen Jianjun, Chen Xin, Gu Rong, and the others lined up beside him. Each stood tall and carried an extraordinary air. They had all come expressly to welcome their lord home.