Shen Ping had three bottom lines when choosing a Dao companion when he's in theQi Refinement Level. He would not consider any of these three: high cultivation levels, deep background and unrestrained.
However, he had already established his foundation and was a core member of the True Treasure Pavilion. His status was far from what Qi Refinement could compare to. Most importantly, the Dao Protector, Pei Huoyu, came from the Zhongsheng Continent's headquarters and was powerful.
As long as he did not encounter a Nascent Soul cultivator, there was basically no danger. Therefore, Shen Ping had a new direction after much consideration regarding the requirements of a Dao Companion. Especially regarding Perfected Qiu. He was deeply moved. Even though he was constantly on guard against being arrogant, he had to admit that under the influence of the surrounding connections, he could not return to his previous state.