Haotian listened but did not rush to answer.
After a brief pause, he casually waved a hand and set up a barrier around them. Then he turned his gaze toward the assembled celestial officials.
"Everyone."
"Rather than spending your days idly in the Heavenly Court, with no hope of advancement..."
"Why not find somewhere else to go?"
After Haotian said this, all the celestial officials present changed color in alarm.
"Immortal Haotian, you... what do you mean by that?"
One official asked nervously.
Haotian did not hide anything. He briefly explained to the assembled officials his plan to establish the Western Heavenly Court.
After hearing him out, all the officials grew solemn.
After all, though they held idle posts in the Heavenly Court, they enjoyed a comfortable, carefree life.
But Haotian was clearly asking them to betray the Heavenly Court.
If this came to light, it would surely provoke the wrath of the Heavenly Court's ruler, Emperor Venerate.
Emperor Venerate was a newly ascended Saint. His wrath was more than they could bear!
Seeing the officials hesitate, Haotian smiled faintly and continued:
"I won't hide anything from you."
"Behind this plan, we have the support of two Saints from the Western Teachings."
"If you're willing to join, then once the Western Heavenly Court is established, I'll give you important positions and let you wield real power."
"Moreover, I can promise you that the resources you receive then will be far greater than what you have now!"
"This is a rare opportunity. If you miss it, you may never get another."
Haotian paused, waiting for the officials to make up their minds.
The officials exchanged glances, uncertain what to do.
At first, they had thought Haotian was being utterly reckless.
But when they heard that two Saints from the Western Teachings