After the court deliberation ended, Executive Zhong returned to the Radiant Wonder Dao Palace. Daoist Cen had long been waiting there. Standing with his hands tucked into his sleeves, he said, "Brother Zhong, you have returned. How did this court deliberation go?"
Daoist Zhong entered and said, "The court has agreed to add continents and expand protectorates. They are currently still discussing which Protectorate Offices to expand. Once the matter is settled, I will seek a position as Profound Chief for you, Daoist."
As he spoke, he made an inviting gesture. Daoist Cen nodded and went with him into the inner hall, where they took their seats. A Daoist attendant promptly came forward with clear tea.
Daoist Zhong said, "Brother Cen was once an Executive, so taking up a term as a Profound Chief should not be difficult. But whether you can achieve sufficient merit in that position will depend on you."
Daoist Cen said, "Then Cen will need a place where merit can be built and accomplishments made. I have been away from Celestial Xia for too long and do not understand the situation here. Does Brother Zhong have any advice?"
Daoist Zhong pointed ahead, and a map of Celestial Xia immediately appeared before them. It showed not only the current thirteen Upper Continents, but also listed the more than one hundred surviving Protectorate Offices.
He said, "I had already considered this proposal to add continents and expand protectorates. In my view, if this is done, these Protectorate Offices ought to be included."
As he spoke, more than ten Protectorate Offices on the light screen flickered to life, roughly scattered in all directions. He continued, "But if one wishes to accomplish something, only these two hold the greatest promise."
He pointed to two of the Protectorate Offices in turn.