In the Hall of High Heaven, the deliberations were drawing to a close.
Haotian returned to his throne. His gaze swept over the assembled ministers before finally settling on Yellow Dragon. After a moment's consideration, he spoke:
"Yellow Dragon, I have given much thought to inviting the great powers of the Primordial World to this Flat Peach Banquet, and I still believe you are the best choice to oversee it. You are a Saint's direct disciple and have ties with many of them. With you approaching them...!"
"Your Majesty." Before Haotian could finish, Yellow Dragon cupped his hands and interrupted respectfully. "Thank you for your trust."
"However, putting me in sole charge would make it seem as though the Heavenly Court had no one else capable of handling the task."
A faint stir ran through the hall.
Haotian raised an eyebrow, somewhat surprised.
Yellow Dragon remained composed as he continued, "I am willing to take full responsibility for inviting the Saints' disciples. As for the other great powers of the Primordial World...!"
He turned toward Donghua Sovereign, who stood at the head of the left-hand ranks, and smiled slightly. "I suggest that Donghua Sovereign invite them."
Haotian turned a thoughtful gaze toward Donghua Sovereign.
Yellow Dragon explained, "Having the Sovereign approach them would both observe the proper courtesies and demonstrate the Heavenly Court's sincerity."
Donghua Sovereign froze briefly at those words, then smiled wryly.
He opened his mouth as though to say something, but when he saw Yellow Dragon's confident expression, he merely shook his head without speaking.
After a moment's thought, Haotian slowly nodded. "Yellow Dragon has a point. Donghua, what do you think?"
Donghua Sovereign drew a deep breath and cupped his hands. "Since Your Majesty trusts me, I shall do my utmost. But...!"
He glanced at Yellow