LGHTNOVELBOOK Chapter 282: Meeting Qian Daoliu
Angel Temple.
An elderly man with snow-white hair, meticulously combed back, stood with an air of dignity.
He wore a long white robe adorned with golden embroidery, featuring an emblem of a six-winged angel, his martial soul.
"They have arrived…"
Murmuring to himself, the old man rose from his seat and strode toward the grand entrance of the temple.
Such esteemed individuals warranted his personal reception.
As he opened the doors, two figures, Golden Crocodile and Zhongli, approached from the distance.
Their pace appeared unhurried, yet each step was perfectly measured.
Within moments, the two arrived at the temple's gates.
Golden Crocodile glanced at Qian Daoliu, slightly surprised.
The Grand Worshipper had actually come to greet them in person?
As a fellow Rank 99 powerhouse, was such formality truly necessary?
Indeed, Golden Crocodile regarded Zhongli as a Rank 99 Limit Douluo rather than a god.
Due to differences in perspective and strength, his worldview diverged significantly from that of Qian Daoliu.
Yet, despite their differing outlooks, he chose to remain silent.
Golden Crocodile cupped his hands in respect and spoke reverently, "Grand Worshipper!"
He did not address him as 'Elder Brother' because, in truth, he was much older than Qian Daoliu.
This simple title already demonstrated his stance.
Moreover, given the presence of an 'outsider,' addressing him as 'Elder Brother' felt inappropriate.
"Second Worshipper, you may return."
Hearing this, Golden Crocodile was momentarily stunned but soon nodded in understanding.
Qian Daoliu was the leader, what he said was absolute.
"As you command, Grand Worshipper."
Before leaving, Golden Crocodile did not forget his duty. He turned to Zhongli and introduced, "Lord Martial God, this is Qian Daoliu, the Grand Worshipper of our Spirit Hall."
"Mm. Safe travels, Second Worshipper."
"You are too kind."
Golden Crocodile did not overthink the matter or ask further questions, he simply departed.
"Lord Martial God, please!"
Once Golden Crocodile had left, Qian Daoliu turned toward Zhongli with deep reverence, gesturing respectfully.
Had Golden Crocodile witnessed this scene, he would have been utterly shocked!
Qian Daoliu, in this moment, resembled a mere commoner meeting nobility.
His sincerity was beyond question.
Yet, he was a Rank 99 Limit Douluo!
Within the Angel Temple, he could even wield divine power, granting him the strength of a demigod!
Even if Tang Chen stood before him, Qian Daoliu would be able to suppress him.
And yet… he was acting like this?
Fortunately, Golden Crocodile had left quickly. Otherwise, he might have accumulated quite a bit of 'shock value.'
Zhongli gave Qian Daoliu a meaningful glance.
This elderly man, whose life had been without blemish, truly embodied the title of 'Son of Light.'
"Grand Worshipper, after you."
Respect given must be returned tenfold.
The two did not linger at the entrance and proceeded directly into the grand hall.
Shortly after, the temple doors closed.
Even a powerful figure like Bibi Dong would be unable to eavesdrop on what was about to be discussed within.
For what Qian Daoliu was about to say, was the most guarded secret of all.
Inside the temple, the scene was far simpler than Zhongli had anticipated.
Apart from a statue of the Angel God, there was only a single prayer mat, testament to Qian Daoliu's unwavering faith.
At his level of cultivation, worldly possessions had long lost their allure.
His only wish was for his descendants to restore the Angel God's divine glory.
For that goal, he was willing to do anything, even sacrifice himself.
"Lord Martial God, I apologize for the temple's modest accommodations," Qian Daoliu said, cupping his hands in respect.
His form of address had changed.
He was done pretending.
He had laid his cards on the table.
He knew, Zhongli was a god!
Hearing this, Zhongli raised an eyebrow slightly but merely looked at Qian Daoliu and nodded in realization.
How strong could a Rank 99 be?
How much divine presence could a demigod exude?
Of course, Qian Daoliu had seen through his identity.
It was within reason.
"A mountain does not need to be tall, so long as an immortal resides there, it shall be renowned."
"A body of water does not need to be deep, so long as a dragon resides within, it shall be sacred."
"This humble abode is not simple at all, where the Angel God is revered, and you stand guard, it is truly a paradise on earth."
Zhongli spoke with a gentle smile.
He held no particular regard for Rank 99 Title Douluo.
In his past battles, he had often misjudged his own strength, leading to unintended destruction.
It was natural that Qian Daoliu had discerned his 'identity.'
Yes, he was a god.
But he was not one of the deities native to the Douluo Continent.
"Hiss—"
Qian Daoliu inhaled sharply.
He had always considered himself a cultured man, yet Zhongli's words shook him to his core.
Indeed, a god capable of composing eternal literary masterpieces, his wisdom was beyond mortal comprehension.
Just a few simple lines had left him enlightened for life.
"The Angel God's Grand Worshipper, Qian Daoliu, greets the Lord Martial God!"
Qian Daoliu knelt on one knee in deep reverence.
It was not that he was unwilling to kneel on both knees, but as the representative of the Angel God, both knees could only be bent before his faith's deity.
One knee, however, was the highest knightly etiquette.
He, Qian Daoliu, could be considered the supreme commander of the Holy Knights!
Zhongli casually waved his hand, and a golden-hued energy lifted Qian Daoliu to his feet.
"I never expected my identity to be discovered by someone I had never met before. As expected of the Angel Douluo."
Zhongli sighed lightly.
For now, he accepted the title of 'god.'
Denying it would be meaningless.
As long as his own followers remained unaware, that was all that mattered.
Qian Daoliu showed no surprise.
His gaze toward Zhongli was filled with unshakable reverence.
Previously, it had only been speculation, but now, it was reality.
He had never imagined that in his lifetime, he would witness a true deity!
This… this was an immense honor!
Yes, throughout his life, Qian Daoliu had never felt envy.
At this moment, all he felt was gratitude!
How many ancestors had longed to witness a god, yet failed?
Yet he, Qian Daoliu, had done so!
A living god.
A true god!
At this moment, he was at a loss for words.
"Lord Martial God, you…"
Before Qian Daoliu could finish, Zhongli waved his hand dismissively and said,
"A god is merely a stronger being."
"You may call me Zhongli."
These words…
They might deceive the people of this world.
But could he, Zhongli, truly be considered 'human'?
He was born a demon god, after all…
Hearing this, Qian Daoliu's eyes flickered with astonishment and slight confusion.
A god, merely a stronger being?
As expected of the Lord Martial God!
His insight was far beyond Qian Daoliu's comprehension.
But to address him by name, was that truly appropriate?
"It doesn't matter. We shall speak as equals," Zhongli added, sensing his hesitation.
After a brief moment, Qian Daoliu nodded.
He had always been a free-spirited man.
Since Zhongli had spoken so plainly, declining would be mere stubbornness.