Chapter 18:The Dao Of Unexpected Visitors

### Chapter 18: The Dao of Unexpected Visitors

Li Wei had just finished his second sermon at the Temple of Universal Dao. The turnout had been surprisingly decent, with a diverse group of people showing up. From skeptical college students to elderly neighbors looking for something new, the crowd was a motley mix.

As he wrapped up the sermon, his Dao System buzzed with another notification:

"New Mission: Expand Your Congregation by 50%."

Li Wei groaned inwardly. "Expand the congregation? Easier said than done."

Zook floated over, cheerfully oblivious to Li Wei's apprehension. "Great job, Li Wei! Everyone seems really interested."

"Yeah, but now we need more people. How am I supposed to convince even more folks to join?"

Before Zook could respond, the temple doors burst open and in walked a group of individuals who looked completely out of place. Leading them was a tall man with slicked-back hair and a suit that screamed "shady businessman."

"Excuse me, are you the guy who started this new church?" the man asked, his tone a mix of curiosity and skepticism.

Li Wei stepped forward. "Yes, that's me. How can I help you?"

The man extended a hand. "Name's Chen. I run a local business and heard about your... enterprise. Thought I'd check it out."

Li Wei shook his hand, albeit cautiously. "Nice to meet you, Chen. What kind of business do you run?"

Chen smirked. "Let's just say I deal in opportunities. I'm always on the lookout for new investments."

Li Wei couldn't help but feel a bit uneasy, but before he could respond, another notification from the Dao System popped up:

"Potential High-Value Follower Detected. Engage with Caution."

He cleared his throat. "Well, Mr. Chen, the Temple of Universal Dao is open to all. Our teachings encompass wisdom from all paths to help people find their way."

Chen looked around the temple, his eyes lingering on the makeshift altar and the eclectic group of attendees still milling about. "Interesting. I might stick around and see what this is all about."

As Chen and his entourage settled into the pews, another visitor entered the temple. This one was an elderly woman dressed in traditional attire, her eyes twinkling with a wisdom that made Li Wei feel like he was in the presence of someone truly special.

"Welcome," Li Wei said, approaching her with a bow. "How can I assist you?"

The woman smiled warmly. "I am Madame Liu. I've heard whispers of your new temple and came to see if the Dao truly flows through here."

Li Wei led her to a seat and began to speak about the universal principles of the Dao, weaving in stories and teachings from various traditions. As he spoke, he noticed Chen listening intently, his earlier skepticism giving way to genuine interest.

After the service, Madame Liu approached Li Wei. "You speak with a sincerity that is rare. I would like to support your temple."

Li Wei's eyes widened. "Thank you, Madame Liu. Your support means a great deal."

Chen, who had been hovering nearby, stepped forward. "I have to admit, you've got something special here, Li Wei. Maybe there's a way we can work together to... expand your reach."

Li Wei's Dao System buzzed with another notification:

"Potential Business Partnership Detected. Proceed with Caution."

Li Wei smiled. "I appreciate the offer, Mr. Chen. Let's discuss how we can collaborate while staying true to the teachings of the Dao."

As the evening came to a close, Li Wei felt a sense of accomplishment. Not only had he attracted more followers, but he also found unexpected allies in Madame Liu and possibly even Chen. His temple was growing, and with it, his mission to spread the teachings of the Dao was becoming a reality.

As he locked up for the night, Zook floated over, beaming with pride. "You're doing great, Li Wei! The temple is really starting to come alive."

Li Wei nodded, feeling a renewed sense of purpose. "Thanks, Zook. We've got a long way to go, but I think we're on the right path."

With the support of his growing congregation and the guidance of his Dao System, Li Wei knew that whatever challenges lay ahead, he was ready to face them with humor, wisdom, and an ever-expanding circle of unlikely friends and followers.