Compared with the accounts, the negotiations between Master Duo and Master Hu were clearly much simpler. Because Master Hu's demands weren't complicated: he just wanted the forces outside to realize they were outmatched and back down. He was willing to pay a little in provisions and money to make that happen.
Master Duo could also see just how badly Master Hu wanted to avoid this fight.
Given Master Hu's personality—he never let himself be taken advantage of—he should have been furious after several of his scouts were killed. Yet he planned to swallow the insult and was even willing to pay to send the troublemakers away. That was completely out of character for him. It showed just how desperately he wanted to lie low and grow stronger.
"Heh, Master Hu, have you thought about this? If someone killed several of your scouts and you paid them to leave your territory, would you be willing to go?"
Master Hu answered without thinking. "I definitely wouldn't."
"Exactly. If even I wouldn't go, people out there certainly won't be willing to."
Master Hu smiled ingratiatingly. "That's why we need your reputation, Master Duo, and the prestige of your Treasure Tree Clan bloodline."
"If you want to invoke the name of my Treasure Tree Clan, there's no need to pay them. Paying them would show that you fear them, and only make them even less willing to leave. But have you considered that even if you drive this group away, another will come along?"
Master Hu said, "Give me a few months, and our forces here will definitely grow stronger."
Clearly, he needed time to lie low and build up his strength.
Master Hu's body trembled slightly. He immediately understood what Master Duo meant.
"Attention! The enemy has retreated into the mountain."
Master Hu's