"Many thanks, Daoist, for standing guard over me." Gao Xian cupped his hands to Zhi Zhen in thanks.
No matter how close the two were, thanks still had to be spoken when called for. How else would others know if you did not say it?
Sincere gratitude was an excellent form of communication. It could better deepen the bond between both sides.
Zhi Zhen smiled. "Senior Brother passed the tribulation as easily as drinking water; there was no need for anyone to guard you. Yet by watching Senior Brother overcome the tribulation, I learned a great deal.
"If anyone should give thanks, it ought to be me thanking Senior Brother."
"Two hundred years apart, and Daoist's words have only grown sweeter..."
Seeing how earnest Zhi Zhen was, Gao Xian found it inappropriate to continue exchanging pleasantries. He made a joke instead, drawing a radiant smile from her as well.
Zhi Zhen was incomparably beautiful, but she dressed entirely in men's clothing. The splendid, majestic attire instead concealed her beauty.
Gao Xian's heart stirred. It had been a long while since he and Zhi Zhen had discussed the Great Dao. Now that his cultivation had advanced greatly, it was the perfect time to cultivate the Great Dao together with her.
Seeing the gleam in Gao Xian's eyes, Zhi Zhen felt that something was off. Before she could ask, Gao Xian had already taken her delicate hand. "I have only just passed the lightning tribulation, and my Yang Spirit has suffered grave harm. I ask Daoist to lend me a hand."
Zhi Zhen did not reject dual cultivation, but neither was she especially keen on it.
Between her and Gao Xian, they were more kindred souls walking the same path of the Great Dao, comrades who fought shoulder to shoulder. Feelings between