Chapter 358: Unifying the Northwest Continent
The many leaders present found Lüxin's decision appealing. The rise of the Sky Alliance was unstoppable, and it was better to join willingly than be forcibly subdued later. Especially now, as a group of defeated soldiers, they were very tempted, particularly their disciples, who were already loyal to Xiao Ze. Many of them likely wanted to leave their original sects and join the Sky Alliance.
"Haha, if the Heavenly Snake Mansion is willing to join the Sky Alliance, we will certainly welcome you with open arms!" Xiao Ze said, satisfied with Lüxin's cooperation. Lüxin had already agreed to join the Sky Alliance on behalf of the Heavenly Snake Mansion; it just hadn't been made public due to Xiao Ze's considerations. Now was the perfect time to formalize their inclusion, which might encourage other factions to join as well. After all, the remaining factions were those unwilling to collude with the Lion Ming Sect and should still hold some sense of righteousness.
"To be honest, Alliance Leader Xiao, I share the same thoughts as Leader Lüxin and also wish to join the Sky Alliance," said an elderly man in black, bowing to Xiao Ze. "The Northwest Continent is vast, but its forces are scattered, unable to form a top-tier power. Even a disaster like the Lion Ming Sect is enough to wipe us out completely."
Lei Qiao also spoke, her recent experience leaving a deep impression. "Joining the Sky Alliance could help us consolidate our power and resist top-tier threats, eliminating dangers like the Yunlan Sect and the Lion Ming Sect."
The leaders continued discussing the benefits of joining the Sky Alliance, reaching a consensus without Xiao Ze having to persuade them. "Alliance Leader Xiao, will you accept us, these remnants of defeated soldiers?" Lei Qiao asked with a self-deprecating smile.
"There's no need to belittle yourselves. I welcome you all to the Sky Alliance. The forces in the Northwest Continent are too scattered, making them vulnerable to groups like the Yunlan Sect and the Lion Ming Sect. If we unite, we can crush them as soon as they emerge," Xiao Ze said.
The leaders nodded in agreement. "I suppose we should start calling you Alliance Leader now," Lei Qiao said with a smile. The other leaders also bowed, respectfully saying, "Greetings, Alliance Leader!"
"No need for formalities. We're all members of the Sky Alliance; let's interact normally," Xiao Ze said.
After concluding their discussion, the remaining members of the Lion Ming Sect were also eliminated. The coalition members, ignoring the bloody ground, lay down laughing, relishing their vengeance against the cannibalistic monsters for their fallen comrades and loved ones.
The leaders exchanged glances, then one by one spoke up. "All disciples, listen! After discussing with the Sky Alliance Leader, we have made a significant decision!" Upon hearing their leaders, the coalition members quickly stood up, attentively awaiting orders. The leaders then turned to Xiao Ze. "Alliance Leader, please announce the news," Lüxin said with a smile.
"Very well," Xiao Ze said, stepping forward. "I have discussed with your leaders the possibility of you all joining the Sky Alliance. What do you think?"
The coalition members were stunned, hardly believing their ears. They had often wished during the battle that Xiao Ze were their leader. The azure sea domain surrounding them provided immense security, making them feel under Xiao Ze's protection. "We are willing!!!" they shouted, their excitement and enthusiasm palpable. "Greetings, Alliance Leader!"
...
When Little Doctor Immortal, Queen Medusa, and Qing Lin arrived, they were puzzled to see so many Sky Alliance members. After learning what had happened, they smiled with delight. This was Xiao Ze's creation, and they were glad to see the Sky Alliance thriving.
Knowing these were new members, Medusa and the others merged them with the existing Sky Alliance forces and set off for the central region of the Northwest Continent. However, their journey revealed scenes that saddened the original Sky Alliance members: miles of scorched earth and countless bones. The once-prosperous central region was now desolate, and it would take years, if not decades, to recover fully.
Due to the destruction wrought by the Lion Ming Sect, the Sky Alliance expanded rapidly, encompassing most of the Northwest Continent in less than six months. Even the remaining areas sent messages of submission, uniting the entire continent under the Sky Alliance's control.
Back at the Sky Alliance headquarters, Xiao Ze gazed at a large map of the Northwest Continent on the wall, showing the alliance's reach over nine regions. "Now we just need to manage this well and guard against interference from the Soul Hall to maintain peace," he said.
Qing Lin approached, handing him a cup of tea. "Young Master Xiao, Sister Medusa and Little Doctor Immortal will be back soon."
"Thank you. You've all worked hard," Xiao Ze said, taking a sip of tea. The three women had helped manage the alliance's affairs, lightening his load. Medusa handled external matters while Little Doctor Immortal and Qing Lin managed internal affairs.
"Otherwise, I'd be overwhelmed," he said, patting Qing Lin's head. She smiled. "It's my duty to help you, Young Master Xiao."
She then handed him a scroll. "Young Master Xiao, the Pill Tower sent a message. The three elders seem to want you to return."
Xiao Ze was taken aback. "It's been a while since I left the Pill Tower. No wonder they're calling me back," he said with a hint of guilt.
(End of chapter)