[the idea is taking shape in his head as he speaks, though it may be a bit too long-term to do them immediate good. the Sutoku Alliance itself reminds him very much of the ragtag group of rogue cultivators and small clans that once banded together with the four Great Sects to overthrow the Wen Clan, at home. at the time, Lan Wangji himself was instrumental in gathering them together -- because he was interested in their strength or their need for help past the power of the name behind them, and because his reputation reflected that. it's one reason why he's just as glad that if any of the factions had to hold his contract, Sutoku was the one that chose to do so.
there are likely any number of groups in the city that aren't currently members of any faction, but could be convinced to lend aid for the sake of keeping the existing powers in balance, even if from behind the scenes...]
no subject
Though, I do not speak of the other factions.
[the idea is taking shape in his head as he speaks, though it may be a bit too long-term to do them immediate good. the Sutoku Alliance itself reminds him very much of the ragtag group of rogue cultivators and small clans that once banded together with the four Great Sects to overthrow the Wen Clan, at home. at the time, Lan Wangji himself was instrumental in gathering them together -- because he was interested in their strength or their need for help past the power of the name behind them, and because his reputation reflected that. it's one reason why he's just as glad that if any of the factions had to hold his contract, Sutoku was the one that chose to do so.
there are likely any number of groups in the city that aren't currently members of any faction, but could be convinced to lend aid for the sake of keeping the existing powers in balance, even if from behind the scenes...]