Although joining forces with the Eastern Lands and the other factions would greatly increase their strength, seven or eight factions together would make too large a target and severely limit their mobility. After all, Ling Tian couldn't trust Little Bite to take all those people into the Small World, so he preferred to keep operating as a single faction.
Zhuge Xun was no fool; he naturally understood Ling Tian and his people's advantages. So he hadn't asked them to travel together, but proposed joining forces in another way, one that wouldn't place too many restrictions on Northern Xuan.
At that, Ling Tian's eyes lit up. "That's a good idea. We can keep in touch and share information. That way, Northern Xuan can continue making the most of our strengths, and we can help each other when it matters. It'll benefit us both."
"Heh, I doubt Brother Zhuge wants us operating alongside them." Old Man Ling spoke up. Seeing Dong Ye and the others look puzzled, he explained, "Northern Xuan is a thorn in the side of the Heaven, Earth, and Yellow alliances. If we combine forces, they'll become targets too. That's the last thing they want."
Though Old Man Ling had exposed his true thoughts, Zhuge Xun showed no embarrassment. He smiled. "That's right. The Heaven, Earth, and Yellow alliances are focused mainly on Northern Xuan, which leaves us relatively safe. Of course, that's only until you're wiped out. If you fall, we'll be in danger too, so we won't stand by and let anything happen to you."
"Exactly. Without Northern Xuan, it'll be difficult for you to resist that colossus, the Heaven, Earth, and Yellow alliances." Ling Tian nodded, then mused, "So we'll draw their attention while you make trouble behind their backs. That benefits both sides."
"Haha, it's