Zhunti's words were ignored outright. No one listened to him at all.
Though embarrassed, Zhunti continued, "Since none of you have any objections, then it is settled."
Silence still filled the hall.
After a moment, Qing Xuanzi rose and said:
"Master, the position of Heavenly Emperor is extremely important. Rather than appoint one immediately, why not postpone the investiture? We can choose a living being to act as interim caretaker, then formally appoint them once they prove capable."
Hongjun nodded. "Good. This method will work."
Hongjun also knew that this was the best response under the circumstances.
Otherwise, even if they selected a Heavenly Emperor now and gained the Heavenly Dao's recognition,
there would be no way to prevent Folo from converting that person later. Having an interim caretaker was much better; at worst, they could appoint someone else.
They could formally invest the Heavenly Emperor after the Buddhist Tribulation had passed.
As long as someone managed the Heavenly Court, the prehistoric world would not descend into chaos for the time being.
Besides, so many Sages were watching over it.
At that moment, Zhunti immediately seized the opening. "In that case, Maitreya may serve as the interim caretaker of the Heavenly Court."
The Sages had unexpectedly all chosen to ignore him, but Tongtian could no longer stand it.
He said bluntly, "Zhunti, decide your own Heavenly Court yourself. There is no need to seek our approval. Go back and establish your Heavenly Court. Stop being an eyesore here."
"Yes, yes, Zhunti. Look, since you so kindly asked for our opinions, I'll speak for everyone. We approve of the candidate you proposed for the Buddhist Sect's Heavenly Court."
Zhunti's face turned the color of pig liver. Damn it, I was talking about the prehistoric Heavenly Court! What Buddhist Sect Heavenly Court?