Zhao An nodded slightly, indicating agreement.
"Indeed, that is the case. The second matter I wish to discuss is how we can ensure that this immortal can stay in Zhao Family Village for a longer period."
As soon as the words left his mouth, silence fell over the gathering, with everyone exchanging glances.
"Chief, that is an immortal we are talking about. How could mere mortals like us possibly keep them here?"
"Indeed, if the immortal wishes to leave, would we even dare to stop them?"
"Everyone, let’s not get carried away with fantasies. Whether an immortal is present or not depends on fate and circumstances. Although the immortal may not be here physically, divine beings are watching over us from everywhere in the world. Therefore, I urge everyone to speak cautiously."
Zhao An cleared his throat gently and bowed slightly towards the void, apologizing repeatedly with words of contrition.
With Zhao An's gesture, others realized their earlier remarks had been too presumptuous and began to imitate him, offering their apologies to the emptiness around them.
After the round of apologies, everyone dared not speak carelessly again and cautiously inquired, "Chief, what do you think we should do?"
"Yes, we are all listening to you. Whatever you need us to do, even if it means facing fire and water, we are unafraid."
Zhao An raised his hand to stop their impulsiveness. "Alright, I can't think of a better solution either. Besides, what could an immortal possibly lack? We are merely mortals; what we can offer to an immortal is quite limited."
Upon hearing this, everyone felt a wave of disappointment wash over them. It was indeed true; they were the ones in need of the immortal's presence, not the other way around.
"Does that mean we can't do anything?"
Zhao An shook his head. "Not at all. There are still many things we can do."
"Oh, then what can we do?"
"First, we need to align our hearts and minds."
"What does that mean?"
Zhao An did not explain immediately but instead encouraged everyone, saying, "First, we need to recognize where our strengths lie."
"What are our strengths?"
"This is the first time the immortals have descended to the mortal realm, and this place happens to be their first stop."
"Since the immortals are willing to follow Zhao Yun to Zhao Family Village and even bestow upon us an endless supply of Qing Shui and miraculous healing milk, it already shows that they do not harbor any disdain for us."
"Is it enough that the immortals do not disdain us?"
Everyone looked at Zhao An with questioning expressions.
Zhao An's face showed a hint of anxiety, yet he felt helpless. The Zhao Clan was merely a small family of modest renown; it was already a challenge for the younger generation to receive basic education, let alone grow into capable individuals.
Seeing the confusion on everyone's faces, Zhao An patiently explained, "The fact that the immortals do not resent us indicates that they may not leave Zhao Family Village in the near future. As for how long they will stay, it depends not only on their willingness but also on our earnest efforts."
"I have emphasized before that the immortals possess everything; we have nothing particularly special to offer them. But that does not mean we should remain passive. Although we cannot provide material gifts directly, we can show them the respect and gratitude they deserve."
"From now on, everyone must maintain humility and courtesy whenever they encounter the immortals."
I have already taught everyone the proper greeting. Please make sure to teach your family when you return home, so that when we meet the deities in the future, we can greet them appropriately.
Furthermore, we must pay extra attention when entrusted with tasks by the deities. I have arranged for Zhao Yun to serve closely by their side. In the future, if Zhao Yun conveys the will of the deities, regardless of how important our own matters may be, we must immediately prioritize the affairs of the deities.
Additionally, let us reflect on the miracles brought by the deities over the past two days: Wasabi has delivered the treasure box of Qianchuan, which protects its owner; Divine Armor that shields us; endless Qing Shui; and Holy Lotion that heals all ailments.
If we can allow the deities to stay here longer, perhaps we will receive even more wondrous gifts. Even if one day they return to the heavenly realm, our Zhao Clan will still hold a place in this land thanks to these divine treasures.
Therefore, I hope everyone will refrain from doing anything that might displease the deities. Once we betray them, it would be a rebellion against our Zhao Clan, and I will remove such a person from our family tree, never to be recorded again.
With that said, my meaning is clear. Everyone understands its importance now and responds in unison: "Elder, please rest assured. We will prioritize the deities in all matters."
Yes, I must remind my wife and children to treat the deities with utmost respect. Indeed, the deities have granted us Qing Shui and healed our ailments; if we do not show gratitude, it would be akin to repaying kindness with enmity.
As everyone expressed their determination one after another, seeing their seriousness, Zhao An gently nodded and added: "By the way, I want to inform everyone that in order to provide a better living environment for the deities, I have tidied up the Ancestral Hall and presented it to them. The ancestral tablets have been moved to a smaller courtyard nearby."
In the future, when we honor our ancestors, please remember not to go to the wrong place so as not to disturb the deities.
Upon hearing this, everyone was initially taken aback but then praised in unison. "The elder's actions are correct; the deities should reside in the best place."
"Indeed, elder, our ancestors will not blame you."
"That's right. Although this may seem a bit disrespectful to our ancestors, the Ancestral Hall is dedicated to the deities. If our ancestors are watching from above, they will surely understand."
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