"Revered one, you have returned!" they cried, their voices echoing through the temple grounds.
The Abbot was the first to approach, his eyes wet with emotion. "Amitabha… The heavens are merciful. Welcome home, Lin Mu."
Lin Mu smiled humbly. "It is good to see you again, Abbot."
The news spread swiftly, carried by monks, messengers, and spiritual birds. Within a day, every sect, clan, and empire in the Silent Lotus World knew that Lin Mu; their savior, the one who had slain the Ephemera Tree had fully recovered.
An entire week of celebration was declared. Cities held festivals, sects lit lanterns, and even the reclusive Immortal clans sent tributes to the Silent Lotus Temple. The temple itself became the heart of festivity.
A grand banquet was arranged on the third day. Tables carved from white jade stretched across the temple's inner courtyard, and immortal lights floated like stars above them.
Lin Mu's companions all gathered there.
