The Post Sky Tipping Era

Li Yi did not scrutinize the divine statue in the temple for long. To him, the statue seemed too weak, the level of cosmic energy it emitted posed no danger to him and wasn’t worth much attention, confirming his earlier judgment about this world’s low level of danger.

Then his gaze turned to the few people inside the temple.

"I am Taiyi, a wandering Daoist. The sky has darkened, and while passing by, I noticed a light in this temple, so I stopped to seek shelter for the night. I hope I haven’t disturbed you all."

Li Yi spoke, bowing courteously. Although he didn’t look like a Daoist, he was indeed a cultivator in reality.

Old Liu was doubtful but quickly returned the bow: "Daoist, you are too polite. I am the guide in this area, everyone calls me Old Liu. In these desolate wilds, ghosts and spirit monsters roam, but this Mountain God Temple worships a Mountain God who can protect travelers. We were delayed on our journey due to ongoing rain and early nightfall, so we stopped here. Meeting a Daoist today is our fortune, how could you disturb us."

"Daoist, come in quickly, warm up by the fire. It’s cold and damp outside, take care not to fall ill."

He invited Li Yi inside the temple, observing him to discern if he was a real Daoist or a spirit monster in disguise.

If he were a mere spirit monster, he wouldn’t dare enter the temple through the main door.

Because the front has the divine statue watching, enough to deter the forest spirits. If a spirit monster wanted to cause harm, they’d sneak inside through windows, back doors, and such, avoiding the statue.