How am I meant to level with a friend now?

[Bled]

Not everyone entering this game will have an entire linkshell at their disposal. (..because linkshells in this game currently run about 4 active members)

You know the l2p saying well l2mf (learn to make friends) I have three LS and they are all above 15 active members regularly (no IRL friends in either LS). Occasionally there wont be a well spring of members on at one time, but that's when i knock out the leves, side quests, story quests, behest, assaults, explore, level low jobs, craft, need i go on....

There is a decent amount of content people are just so close minded these days; remember more content is on the way.

Edit: I believe the game supports up to 8 LS's so use that.