Shitou pursued his doctoral studies abroad and after gaining some fame, he naturally acquired a group of followers.
There was no doubt, Shitou was exceptional, from a good family background, with strong personal capabilities, involving in various fields of research including arts and sciences, martial arts, medical techniques, marksmanship, and intelligent machine manufacturing.
Of course, some of these research areas were his private interests, and some were official.
Protecting his compatriots was a natural impulse, and as the country's power grew, the perception of its people abroad gradually shifted.
Shitou made quite a few friends, many from home, but also quite a few from abroad.
Mostly, they were like-minded individuals. Besides his family, Shitou didn't let anyone know he was to enlist at the age of eighteen, but his returning home was certain.
