The two of them traveled together, which significantly increased their safety. Even if they were to fight, they wouldn't feel uneasy.
For example, if they encountered a clawed demon, the old lady could join forces with Ma Lin to eliminate it, but if the old lady or Ma Lin were alone, they would try to avoid challenging it.
Ma Lin had a leather shield, a magical item, which was considered top-notch at this level. In fact, all of Ma Lin's equipment was quite strong, so the old lady was happy to see it and felt that the mission would be much easier.
