The Profound Sun Sword Lord stepped forward twice and laughed heartily.
His words were courteous, but his eyes held a measure of scrutiny.
Clearly, he wanted to see just how capable this young Alliance Leader, whose fame had spread throughout the surrounding regions, really was.
Su Ming spoke calmly.
"You're too kind, Profound Sun Sword Lord."
"Forgive me for arriving unannounced."
The two exchanged a few pleasantries.
The Profound Sun Sword Lord stepped aside.
"Alliance Leader Su, please come inside so we can talk."
"Please."
The group entered the great hall.
They took their seats, hosts and guests in their respective places.
Disciples served spirit tea.
The Profound Sun Sword Lord lifted his cup and took a sip.
Then he spoke leisurely.
"What brings Alliance Leader Su here amid his busy schedule?"
He was asking a question he already knew the answer to.
Su Ming sneered inwardly, but his expression remained unchanged.
"You should already know, Sword Lord."
"I've come about the Weird Resistance Alliance."
"The abnormalities are invading, sweeping through our lands like a blade splitting bamboo."
"When the nest is overturned, how can any egg remain unbroken?"
"I hope to join forces with the Profound Sun Sword Sect and resist our common enemy."
The Profound Sun Sword Lord set down his cup, pretending to deliberate.
"Elder Feng has already told me about the alliance."
"It isn't that our sect is unwilling to help."
"The truth is... our hearts are willing, but our strength falls short."
He sighed, putting on a troubled expression.
"As you know, Alliance Leader Su, our Heavenly Profound Immortal Domain covers a vast territory."
"Defenses must be stationed all along our borders."
"Our forces are already stretched thin."
"And our sect's resources aren't plentiful, either."
"If we divert troops to your territory, our own defensive