But they did not stand on ceremony with Zuo Xiaoduo over the spoils on their side, collecting them directly.
Likewise, Zuo Xiaoduo gathered his own. The two sides kept their affairs as clearly divided as the Jing and Wei rivers, each understanding the other's thoughts very well. For now, neither had gained the other's absolute trust.
After this battle, the number Zuo Xiaoduo had collected rose to four hundred and ninety-seven.
Just then, the leader of the Gao Lineage group opposite him cupped his fists. "Young Master Zuo, we're in dangerous territory, so we need to keep some distance between us. Please forgive us."
"I understand." Zuo Xiaoduo solemnly returned the salute.
"Our strength is nothing remarkable. Staying with you would make too large a target, and I'm afraid we'd only drag you down."
The man continued, "We'll hide nearby. If you encounter danger, just give a long cry, and we'll certainly rush to your aid. We wouldn't dare claim we could break you out of an encirclement, but we can still hold the enemy back and cover your retreat to give you a chance to survive."
"I understand. Thank you for your consideration."
"Take care!"
"Take care!"
The Gao Lineage group left without hesitation. Before departing, their leader glanced around, hesitated, and finally said in a low voice, "Young Master Zuo, watch out for the Wu Lineage."
Zuo Xiaoduo nodded gravely.
The Gao Lineage group headed farther along the route Zuo Xiaoduo was taking, moving very quickly.
In mere moments, they vanished from sight.
Clearly, they had gone ahead to scout the way.
Watching them leave, Zuo Xiaoduo furrowed his brow into three deep lines.
"Have you had a feud with them?" the Sun Venerable, who was following in secret, asked keenly through voice transmission.
"Yes," Zuo Xiaoduo replied