Despite everything, Li Ling kept up appearances impeccably, cupping his hands in greeting with the serene air of an unfathomable master.
Huo Luo looked at Yao Lingxian. "May I ask, fellow Daoist, why young Lingxian is here, and where you intend to take him?"
Li Ling said, "He is a true disciple of my Incense Path. Naturally, I am taking him back to the North Sea."
"Oh?" Huo Luo's expression shifted slightly, and he smiled. "But as far as I know, young Lingxian shares a destined bond with our cult and joined the Divine Dragon Cult twenty years ago. Even his disciples and the other members of the Incense Perception Cult have already changed their allegiance. Your information is ancient history, fellow Daoist."
Li Ling said, "Absurd! How could there be such a ridiculous arrangement?"
Huo Luo said, "Whether it is ridiculous is hardly for you alone to decide. I believe young Lingxian himself would prefer to remain on the Mystic Continent rather than go to the North Sea. Isn't that right?"
Yao Lingxian fell silent at this. For the moment, he genuinely had no idea what to do.
Li Ling said, "Say no more, fellow Daoist. Since you know I am Li Ling, you should also know that the Incense Perception Cult carries my direct teachings. Taking them back is only right and proper. Anyone who dares stop me makes an enemy of me and my Incense Accumulation Sect!"
Huo Luo sighed. "You are mistaken, True Person Li. We also have compelling reasons to keep young Lingxian here. Might you be willing to part with this outstanding disciple and entrust him to us?
"In return, the Divine Dragon Cult has many talented individuals whom you may command as you please."
That was wishful thinking-using a nominal exchange of talent