Chapter 950: Divination
The commendation decree clearly stated that it was to be announced throughout the Daoist Order, so the army camp had to conduct a public reading as well. Thus, a small ceremony was held. Daoist priests, Spirit Guards, and Daoist Priest Kindreds of the fourth rank and above gathered as witnesses. Great Sage Zhang Qihan personally read the decree, and Qi Xuansu went on stage to receive the award.
After handing the decree to Qi Xuansu, Zhang Qihan praised, “Tian Yuan can truly be called the foremost achiever in battle among the disciples of the eighth generation—the leading hero of many commendations.”
At once, applause broke out from the crowd.
The commendation decree came in two forms. One was the official written document, consisting of a heading with its reference number, the main body, and the closing signature. It listed the recipient’s main achievements, the details of the commendation, and expectations for his future.
The other was a simplified version that only had a few lines, suitable for display. Its title was simple—the Golden Tower Council Commendation Decree. Then, on a new line, the content read, “Awarded to Qi Xuansu for making outstanding contributions in the Fenglin campaign.”
This was followed by the signature of the Golden Tower Council’s Chief Omniscient Sage, Pei Xuanzhi. Dated March 3rd, 43rd year of the Jiushi Era.
Qi Xuansu first looked toward Zhang Yuelu, who smiled at him while clapping, communicating without words.
Li Changge and Yao Pei were the first to step forward and congratulate Qi Xuansu, displaying magnanimity.
Then came Li Tiangang and other figures of real authority. In the past, they could still treat Qi Xuansu as a junior due to their higher status. Now, whether they were willing or not, they had to regard him as an equal.
Lastly, people like Xu Kou, Lu Yuting, Han Yongfeng, and Qian Daren came forward, not to offer congratulations but rather to pay respects.
After all, Zhang Yuelu was not the only one who could see the three-step approach. The Daoist Order never lacked discerning eyes, and many had already sensed it.
The Daoist Order prided itself on equality, but in this world, there was no true equality with hierarchy and stratification embedded deep within the fabric of society.