"But then again...
"If this matter is handled beautifully, perhaps it will catch the president's eye. I could use this chance to climb another step higher and obtain more resources."
"But if I botch it, or run into danger, even my life may not be safe."
"The heavens are vast and the earth is broad, but my own life matters most.
"If it truly comes to that, I can simply give up this department head position. There's no need to gamble my life on a future."
Thoughts like these...
Surged wildly through the minds of every departmental heavyweight.
Each harbored their own thoughts, and the hall fell into silence for a time.
A moment later, The Nascent Soul True Lord from the Spirit Medicine Department, clad in a dharma robe embroidered with images of pill furnaces and Spirit Medicine, was the first to lose his patience. He rose to his full height, stepped forward, and stopped.
He respectfully offered the Half Venerables seated above a half-bow, Then, with a hint of caution in his voice, asked, "Elders!
"As disciples of the Cultivator Association, we naturally ought to obey the president's decree without a second word.
"However, I have one doubt in my heart, one that concerns the safety of this reconstruction. I hope you will not begrudge me an explanation!"
The next instant, A cool, concise voice came from the thrones above. It carried the majesty of a Half Venerable, devoid of any superfluous emotion.
"Speak."
At this, the head of the Spirit Medicine Department no longer hesitated. Straightening his back, he declared loudly, "From the information I have gathered through many channels, the president did not spend much time pursuing that mysterious evil cultivator who invaded us before returning to Sea Suppressing Immortal City.
"Thus, I boldly ask: did