Nuwa, however, remained rather composed and said slowly, "An expedition into Chaos is a momentous undertaking.
"If we leave in full force, what will become of the Primordial World's interior? Within Chaos, Hong Jun and the Four Sovereigns are all cunning schemers.
"If we all depart and they seize the chance to launch a surprise attack on the Primordial World, would the foundation of its perfected Three Powers not be destroyed in a single stroke?"
Houtu also said, "Fellow Daoist Nuwa's concerns are entirely justified.
"Within the Primordial World, we have immortal-mortal separation and the four teachings standing side by side, but that does not make it completely secure.
"While we campaign abroad, someone must remain to guard the Primordial World."
At these words, all the Sages in the hall fell into thought.
Campaigning in Chaos and guarding the Primordial World were two sides of the same coin. They had to be weighed properly to ensure nothing went wrong.
Pan Xuan stood at the head of the hall and spoke slowly:
"Your words all have merit, fellow Daoists. The Primordial World is our foundation for waging war in Chaos. If it is lost, even victory will be defeat.
"Thus, before departing, we must first arrange who will guard the Primordial World. In my view, three Sages should remain-"
He paused, his gaze passing over Zhen Yuanzi, Houtu, and Nuwa, then said slowly:
"Fellow Daoist Zhen Yuanzi governs the Earth Immortal Realm and oversees the realms of immortals and mortals.
"Houtu governs the Netherworld and presides over the Six Paths of Reincarnation.
"Nuwa governs the Human Dao and safeguards the Human Race's vitality.
"With these three fellow Daoists each guarding one domain, the order of the Primordial World's Three Powers will be secure beyond all doubt!"
At Pan Xuan's words, all