Yes, it lies in the fact that he is a formal disciple of the Longevity Sect.
In his previous life, this Liu Tao was a bona fide, salaried public servant with a secure job.
Whereas he, Chen Dengming, considered himself socially experienced and capable, but his age was an obstacle─wanting to get into public service, he found age restrictions preventing him from even taking the examination.
Fortunately, there might be a loophole with the Changchun Sect.
The absence of a precedent doesn't mean one cannot be set; everything is within human control.
...
Five days later.
In a residential area within Everjoy District, territory of the Changchun Sect.
Chen Dengming had just set himself up in Everjoy District. He politely brought along some gifts to visit his neighbours.
While visiting a Li surnamed cultivator living next door, he subtly added a pretty ornamental magic Artifact hairpin to his gift.
"Hehe, Friend Gao, you need not be so polite."