Chapter 268: The Journey of Immortality, the Mysterious Pill (Part )
(Only read Douluo, ignore this chapter)

"Master! Master! I have ploughed all the land in Gao Village!" Zhu Bajie's fat body shook, with a silly smile on his face, shouting loudly, breaking the quietness of the afternoon. He ran to Tang San breathlessly, looking like he was asking for credit. However, when he saw Gao Cuilan standing next to Tang San, his eyes immediately lit up and his mouth opened wide.

Gao Cuilan was dignified and beautiful, with a blush on her face, which made her look even more charming. Zhu Bajie stared at her with a drooling face, and just when he was about to speak, Gao Cuilan hit him on the head with a slap, causing him to cry out in pain and cover his head.

"Bajie! Since you have converted to Buddhism, you should abide by the duties of a Buddhist disciple and stop having any improper thoughts about Miss Gao!" Tang San solemnly warned Zhu Bajie and mentioned Guanyin Bodhisattva at the same time, hoping to intimidate him.

Seeing this, Sun Wukong also jumped over and grabbed Zhu Bajie's ears, and said with a little force, "Bajie, you idiot, if you dare to have such nonsense again, I will pull your ears off!"

"Ouch, ouch, Brother Monkey, please be gentle. I know I was wrong. I will never dare to think about Miss Gao again..." Zhu Bajie screamed in pain, covered his ears with his hands, and begged for mercy again and again.

Gao Cuilan couldn't help but chuckle as she watched this scene. "Saint monk, your disciples are so interesting."

At this time, Grandpa Gao and Grandma Gao returned to the house with their servants. They watched this scene from afar, with awkward smiles on their faces, and did not dare to disturb them. They knew that since Tang San and his disciples came to Gao Laozhuang, there was no more threat from monsters here, and although these monks behaved strangely, they were all kind-hearted and powerful masters.

"Old Gao! Come here!" Sun Wukong suddenly waved and shouted to Gao Taigong.

Gao Taigong was stunned for a moment, then he walked over quickly, "Sun Dasheng, what do you want me to do?"

"It's nothing serious," Sun Wukong said with a smile, "I just want to ask you, are there any other monsters around here? My disciples and I can help you get rid of them."

Upon hearing this, Mr. Gao was overjoyed. "Oh my, that's great! To be honest, there is indeed a monster's lair nearby, and it often comes out to harm the people. If you can help get rid of this scourge, then the people of Gao Village will be very grateful!"

Tang San nodded slightly after hearing this, "If that's the case, then let's go meet this monster. Bajie, Sha Seng, are you ready?"

"We are ready!" Zhu Bajie and Sha Seng answered in unison. Although Zhu Bajie looked lazy just now, he immediately became energetic when he heard that there were monsters to fight.

Sun Wukong scratched his head and said with a grin, "Grandfather, today we three will set out to the West to obtain the scriptures. We will be exposed to the wind and sun along the way, so please give us a vegetarian meal so that we can have the strength to continue our journey."

Hearing this, Master Gao smiled with joy. "Okay! Masters, rest assured, the vegetarian meal has been prepared." He turned and waved to the servants, "Quick, serve the vegetarian meal so that the masters can eat their fill and have enough energy to go to the West to obtain the scriptures."

The servants responded and quickly set up the tables, which were filled with a variety of vegetarian dishes. Steaming steamed buns, fragrant vegetarian dishes, and sweet soups were all available.

Tang San and his disciples sat down and began to enjoy this sumptuous vegetarian meal. Zhu Bajie, in particular, had an amazing appetite. He grabbed a large steamed bun with one hand and began to eat it voraciously. Soon, five large baskets of steamed buns were devoured by him. He then picked up a pot of soup and gulped it down. Then he patted his belly and said with satisfaction, "Ah... I am full now."

Sun Wukong looked at Zhu Bajie's eating and couldn't help but joked, "You idiot, the only thing you can do better than others is eating." Zhu Bajie smiled innocently and touched his big belly, "Haha, I plowed hundreds of hectares of land last night. If I can work, I can eat, right, Master?"

Tang San smiled and nodded, "Bajie's ability is indeed amazing. However, we have to set off quickly." He stood up, straightened his clothes, and pretended to be a monk, "Grandpa, I am going to the west. Goodbye."

Gao Taigong's family came forward to say goodbye. When Tang San said goodbye to Gao Cuilan, he took advantage of the fact that no one was paying attention and gently pinched Gao Cuilan's jade hand. Gao Cuilan's cheeks flushed slightly, and her beautiful eyes sparkled with crystal light, as if she had thousands of words to say, but she didn't dare to speak. She could only bite her lower lip tightly, fearing that tears would burst out.

Tang San looked at Gao Cuilan's pitiful appearance, and a trace of tenderness surged in his heart. But he knew that he was shouldering the important task of obtaining the scriptures from the West, and he could not delay here for too long. So, he took a deep breath, turned around and waved to his disciples, "Let's go, we still have a long way to go."

Zhu Bajie looked at Gao Cuilan in front of him, feeling reluctant to leave, but he still tried to comfort her with his unique honest smile: "Haha, my lady, don't be too sad. When I come back from my journey, we'll have a good reunion." He obviously misunderstood Gao Cuilan's eyes, thinking that her complicated expression was because she was reluctant to let him leave.

Sun Wukong stood aside, watching Zhu Bajie's self-conceited look, and couldn't help himself. He suddenly stretched out his hand, hit Zhu Bajie's head hard, and said with a smile: "Fool, don't be so self-conceited. Go, go!" As he said that, he pushed Zhu Bajie forward. Although Zhu Bajie was a little dazed by the knock, he didn't dare to object loudly, but just complained in his mouth.

At this time, Tang San had already said goodbye to Gao Cuilan and Gao Taigong's family, and was about to turn around and leave. But at this moment, Gao Taigong suddenly stopped them: "Holy monk, please stay! I have prepared some silver as travel expenses for the holy monks to use on the road." As he said, the servants came over with two plates of silver ingots.

Tang San took a look at the silver and waved his hands repeatedly: "Monks travel around and have their own ways to beg for food. These silvers are of no use to us masters and disciples, and may even harm our practice. We absolutely cannot accept these silvers." His tone was firm and sincere.

After hearing what Tang San said, Gao Taigong could not help but stand in awe. He sighed, "The holy monk is indeed a wise monk! Since you are unwilling to accept the silver, I have something that you will not refuse." As he said this, he waved his hand behind him. Immediately, three servants came forward, each holding a brand new monk's robe in his hand.

"The holy monk has been sleeping in the open air all the way, and I don't know how much hardship he has to endure. I see that your clothes are a little worn out. These are three monk robes that the villagers of Gao Laozhuang specially made last night. I hope the holy monk will accept them as a token of our gratitude as the villagers of Gao Laozhuang." Grandpa Gao's words were full of gratitude and respect.

Tang San looked at the three monk robes in front of him, and a warm feeling surged in his heart. He knew that this was the kindness of the villagers of Gao Laozhuang, and it was really hard to refuse. So, he smiled and nodded: "Okay, these monk robes will indeed be useful to us along the way. I am really grateful to Mr. Gao and the villagers for their kindness."

Tang San gently mounted the white dragon horse. The horse seemed to sense his master's mood and neighed softly, as if to comfort him. He turned around and looked at Gao Cuilan deeply. That look seemed to have crossed time and space and was frozen at this moment. Gao Cuilan's eyes were already filled with tears. Those tears made Tang San's heart ache. He quickly turned his head back, not daring to look at her again, for fear that he would be soft-hearted and stay.

"I wish the holy monk a safe journey to the west." Gao Taigong's voice was respectful and sincere, echoing in the morning breeze.

Sun Wukong waved his monkey paw with his usual playful smile on his face, "Thank you, Lao Gao, you'd better go back quickly, we'll set off now." After saying that, he turned over and jumped onto the somersault cloud, looking eager to try.

"Idiot, the burden is yours, I'll be in charge of leading the horse." Sun Wukong suddenly threw the burden he was carrying to Zhu Bajie.

Zhu Bajie was immersed in the sadness of parting when he was suddenly startled by this sudden "heavy responsibility". "Ah? Why should I, an old pig, carry the burden?" He immediately grumbled and wanted to object.

However, before he could finish his words, the quick-handed Sun Wukong grabbed his ears again, "Ouch... Brother Monkey, please have mercy, I'll pick it, isn't it okay for me to pick it?" Zhu Bajie grimaced in pain and begged for mercy quickly.

Sun Wukong let go of his hand and said with a grin, "Haha, you insisted on getting whipped before crossing the river. Why didn't you just say so earlier? Just carry it honestly."

Although Zhu Bajie grumbled in dissatisfaction, he still reluctantly took up the responsibility. Sun Wukong was responsible for exploring the way and begging for food, a task that seemed easy, but in fact required him to be vigilant and attentive at all times.

Tang San watched the interaction between his disciples and felt a little warm in his heart. Although the journey to the west was full of hardships and unknowns, with these disciples by his side, he believed that he would be able to overcome all difficulties and retrieve the true scriptures.

"My beauty in the east, the Yellow River in the west..." Tang San suddenly opened his voice and sang. Although the lyrics of this song are somewhat worldly, they seem particularly appropriate at this moment. It seems to be telling Tang San's inner emotional entanglement and expectations for the future.

The swallows flying in the sky seemed to be attracted by the song. They circled and chirped in the air, as if they were responding to Tang San's song. The tender grass under my feet began to sprout, the whole hillside was green, the stream gurgled, and the breath of spring was blowing in my face. All of this made people feel a kind of vibrant power.

Two hares startled by Tang San's singing suddenly jumped out of the bushes, running and jumping quickly, as if dancing to the song. This scene made Tang San and his disciples laugh. Although the journey to the west is full of hardships, there are also such beautiful moments worth cherishing.

As the song drifted and the hare ran, the four masters and apprentices continued their journey westward. They knew that there were countless difficulties and challenges waiting for them to face and solve, but the laughter and unity at the moment had given them enough courage and confidence to face everything in the future.

In fact, Tang San was not feeling well either. He looked at the endless road ahead, his heart filled with sadness. He was about to go west, and he really didn't know when he would be able to come back. Those tearful eyes had been lingering in his heart, making him unable to let go.

He took a deep breath, turned his head and looked at the honest yet slightly cunning Zhu Bajie beside him, and asked in a trembling voice: "Bajie, I want to ask you something."

Zhu Bajie was carrying a heavy load of luggage and walking forward. Hearing what his master said, he quickly came to the front of the horse, flapped his big ears, and smiled with a simple face, "Ah? Master, tell me."

Tang San pursed his lips and asked anxiously, "How long have you been in Gao Village?"

Zhu Bajie thought for a moment, scratched his neck, and replied, "Ah... I have been here for three years."

"Three years..." Tang San muttered to himself, and an inexplicable feeling surged in his heart. He then asked: "You haven't been with Miss Cuilan?"

Zhu Bajie sighed and shook his head, "Cuilan won't agree no matter what she says! Although I used to be the Marshal of Heaven, I cannot take a woman's body by force. Alas, Master, when I come back from the journey to the West, I will look for Cuilan to reminisce about the past." When he said this, a dazed light appeared in his little eyes, and it was obvious that he was still thinking about Gao Cuilan.

Tang San saw this, but his heart was filled with mixed emotions. He was silent for a moment, and finally warned: "Bajie, don't ever think about Cuilan again. She... ate the elixir and will soon become a deity. If you continue to pester her, wouldn't you be breaking the Heavenly Law again?" As he spoke, he looked at Zhu Bajie with a murderous look.

Zhu Bajie was frightened by his master's gaze, and felt a chill on his back. He quickly turned around and saw Tang San staring at him majestically, his tone becoming cold. He immediately shrank his neck, not daring to have any improper thoughts. He honestly carried the burden and continued to move forward in silence, but he couldn't help thinking in his heart: Ate the elixir? How is it possible! The elixir is not something as easy to get as the fried beans you usually sell!
However, despite his doubts and reluctance, Zhu Bajie did not dare to say anything more. He knew clearly that his master's majesty and determination could not be challenged, and he also understood that as a disciple he should respect and obey his master's teachings and decisions. Therefore, he could only accept this fact silently and look forward to meeting Gao Cuilan again one day in the future - but by then, things might have changed.

The sun was blazing in the sky, and the heat of the scorching summer seemed to be able to melt everything. In this endless heat, Tang San, his master and his apprentice, and their horse still firmly set out on the road to the west. They traveled by day and slept by night, and although their days were hard, they were also extremely fulfilling.

Along the way, Zhu Bajie carried a heavy load of luggage and was sweating profusely. Sweat rolled down his fat cheeks and wet the ground under his feet. His monk's robe was soaked and stuck to his body, revealing his clumsy but cute figure. Despite this, he still gritted his teeth and persisted, only stopping occasionally to catch his breath.

The white dragon horse carrying Tang San was also sweating profusely. It snorted and moved slowly, and each step seemed so heavy. Tang San sat on the horse's back. Although he was wearing the Five Buddha Crown, he still couldn't resist the summer heat. His face was slightly red, and beads of sweat kept rolling down his forehead, but he always maintained a calm demeanor and silently endured this torment.

In contrast, Sun Wukong seemed much more relaxed. He flew around the three masters and apprentices, sometimes exploring the way ahead, and sometimes returning to ask about the situation. His figure was looming in the scorching sun, as if he was not affected by the hot weather. However, even so, a trace of fatigue could not be avoided on his face.

Tang San wiped the sweat off his face, looked at the rice seedlings in the fields that had been withered by the sun, and couldn't help feeling an inexplicable sadness in his heart. He sighed and chanted: "The scorching sun is like a fire, and the rice in the fields is half burnt. The farmer's heart is like boiling water, and the princes are fanning themselves." Although his voice was not loud, it echoed in the quiet fields, as if telling the suffering and injustice of the world.

Hearing Tang San's recitation, Zhu Bajie immediately stopped. He turned around and complimented: "Master, you are so talented! You can write such a good poem." His eyes narrowed, and seeing Sun Wukong went to explore the way ahead, he took the opportunity to complain to Tang San: "Master, you see that Senior Brother always lets me, Old Pig, carry the burden, and he runs around himself. He is too happy. Can you talk to him and let us switch jobs?"

Tang San narrowed his eyes, looking at Zhu Bajie's soaked monk's robe and sweaty face, and couldn't help feeling surprised. He didn't expect that the summer weather would be so hot that even Zhu Bajie couldn't stand it. He pondered for a moment, then slowly said: "Bajie, the summer heat is really unbearable. You've worked hard carrying the load, I see it in my eyes, and it hurts my heart. When Wukong comes back, I will discuss with him to see if we can let you two switch jobs."

Hearing Tang San's words, Zhu Bajie was overjoyed. He quickly thanked him: "Thank you, Master! Thank you, Master!" A long-lost smile appeared on his face, as if he had seen the beautiful scene of himself getting rid of the burden and moving forward easily.

At this time, Sun Wukong returned from exploring the way. He flew to Tang San's side and reported: "Master, there is a village not far ahead. We can go there to get some vegetarian food to fill our stomachs." After saying that, he glanced at Zhu Bajie's smiling face and couldn't help but feel puzzled: "Bajie, what are you laughing at? So happy?"

"Hehe, nothing, nothing." Zhu Bajie was afraid that Sun Wukong would not agree to change his job, so he quickly covered it up and said, "I just think the weather is good today, and I'm in a good mood."

Although Sun Wukong was puzzled, he did not investigate further. He nodded and said to Tang San: "Master, let's go to the village ahead. I'm starving!" After saying that, he flew forward first.

"Okay! Let's go!" Tang San responded, urging the white dragon horse to speed up. Zhu Bajie also quickly picked up the burden and followed, secretly looking forward to the relaxing time that was about to come.

Since Tang San set foot in the world of Journey to the West, his deep friendship with Sun Wukong has deepened. Not only did he learn advanced skills from this skilled monkey, but he also received a precious gift from Sun Wukong - the Demon-Trapping Tower. This mysterious pagoda has the magical power to trap demons and monsters, and has become Tang San's right-hand man on his journey to the West. As Tang San's chief disciple, Sun Wukong has always been loyal to his master, and he is fearless in the front, whether crossing mountains and rivers or exploring demon caves.

Compared to Sun Wukong's diligence and ability, Zhu Bajie seems a bit lazy. He always tries to avoid labor and sometimes tries to be lazy. However, Tang San can see through all these actions. He knows that although Zhu Bajie is lazy, he is kind-hearted and just lacks some encouragement and motivation.

One day, the four masters and apprentices walked into a dense forest. The sun shone through the treetops, casting mottled shadows. Tang San looked at the winding path ahead and had an idea in mind. He turned to Zhu Bajie and said, "Bajie, I see that it's hard for you to carry the load. Why don't you switch jobs with Wukong and be responsible for exploring the way and begging for alms?"

When Zhu Bajie heard this, his eyes lit up and he cheered, "Great, Master, that's great!" He had long wanted to get rid of the heavy burden of luggage and find an easier job.

At this moment, Sun Wukong turned into a golden light and came in an instant, asking puzzledly: "What's the best?" He turned his pair of golden eyes and looked at Tang San and Zhu Bajie curiously.

Tang San smiled slightly and explained: "Wukong, I think it's too tiring for you to run around all day, begging for food and exploring the way. So I want Bajie to switch jobs with you and let him take charge of these trivial matters."

After hearing this, Sun Wukong felt warm in his heart. He felt the care and understanding of his master. However, he was diligent and skilled by nature, so he naturally did not take the hard work seriously. He waved his monkey paw and said, "Master, you are worrying too much. I am not tired, not tired. I don't need to change this job, I don't need to change it."

Zhu Bajie was anxious when he heard this, fearing that this hard-won opportunity would slip away. Just as he was about to speak, he was stopped by Tang San's gesture. Tang San said to Sun Wukong: "Wukong, actually it is like this. I have just discussed it with Bajie, he feels that the job of carrying the luggage is not easy. So it is the same for us to switch, and Bajie is also very willing to switch. Let's try it for a few days, maybe we can get some new gains."

After hearing this, Sun Wukong pondered for a moment, and finally nodded his agreement after seeing Zhu Bajie's eager eyes and Tang San's firm attitude. Zhu Bajie was overjoyed to see this, and immediately threw down his luggage, eager to go out and beg for alms. "Oh..." Sun Wukong raised his eyebrows slightly, and the light of wisdom flashed in his fiery eyes. He instantly understood Tang San's intention, and a playful smile hung on the corner of his mouth, "Okay, Master, then let's change a few days, so that Bajie can also experience my work."

When Zhu Bajie heard this, he was immediately delighted, as if a heavy burden had been lifted off his shoulders. He hurriedly handed the baggage to Sun Wukong, smiling, "Hey, hey, Monkey brother, I'll leave this baggage to you, haha." After saying this, he breathed a sigh of relief, as if he had already seen himself free and at ease.

Sun Wukong took over the heavy baggage, but his face showed no sign of strain. He pointed forward and said to Zhu Bajie, "Bajie, there is a family ahead. Go ahead and get some vegetarian food so that we can taste your cooking skills."

"Oh? All right!" Zhu Bajie picked up the nine-toothed target, his fat body twisted with his steps, his big ears fluttered, looking quite funny. He was in a good mood, humming a little tune, and walked forward quickly.

Sun Wukong looked at Zhu Bajie's back as he walked away and laughed. He picked up the luggage and although it was heavy, he walked easily and even limped to amuse the white dragon horse. The white dragon horse seemed to feel the relaxed atmosphere and automatically followed behind Sun Wukong.

"Master, do you think that idiot thinks that my exploration and begging are too easy, so he wants to switch jobs with me?" Sun Wukong joked, while not forgetting to show off his intelligence to Tang San.

Tang San smiled and nodded in praise: "Haha, Wukong is so smart! You are worthy of being the Great Sage Equaling Heaven! In fact, I also think it's good to let this idiot experience your work. As the saying goes, 'You don't know how difficult it is until you experience it.' Let him personally experience the hardship of your exploration and begging for alms, maybe he will appreciate your efforts more."

The master and the disciple smiled at each other and continued to move forward. Although Sun Wukong was carrying a heavy burden, his steps were still as light as flying. In the distance, Zhu Bajie was also humming a little tune as he walked further and further away, starting his new journey of begging for alms.

Tang San is well aware of his great responsibility as a leader. He not only has to lead his disciples to the West to obtain scriptures, but also has to coordinate the relationship between them. This time, letting Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie swap tasks is part of his management strategy. He hopes that this way Zhu Bajie can appreciate Sun Wukong's hard work and dedication, thereby enhancing their understanding and unity.

As the sun moved, the group gradually approached the family. Sun Wukong put down the luggage, wiped the sweat from his forehead, and said to Tang San: "Master, wait a moment, there will be vegetarian food later."

Soon after, Zhu Bajie returned with a full load. He was holding several tightly packed lunch boxes in his hands, with a proud smile on his face. This experience of begging for alms made him deeply realize how difficult it was for Sun Wukong, and made him cherish this hard-earned food even more.

"Master, Monkey King, come and have a taste!" Zhu Bajie opened the lunch boxes one by one and placed them on the ground. Immediately, the aroma filled the air, making people salivate.

Tang San and Sun Wukong sat down to enjoy the sumptuous vegetarian meal, their hearts full of satisfaction and relief. This experience of exchanging tasks not only made Zhu Bajie realize Sun Wukong's hard work, but also made the relationship between the three of them more harmonious and harmonious. It was really an unexpected gain!
At this time, Sun Wukong picked up the load and walked in front, with a satisfied smile on his face. He turned to Tang San and said, "Haha, Master is right! It's right, this idiot should experience the difficulty of exploring the road and begging for alms." After that, he laughed and continued to move forward.

The white dragon horse quickly caught up, carrying Tang San steadily. The sun was setting, and the sky was full of colorful clouds. Although the weather was still as hot as a steamer, the master and his disciples were in a relatively relaxed mood.

As they walked, Sun Wukong joked, "Haha, Master, I wonder if that idiot has found a place to stay? Has he begged for some vegetarian food?" He was referring to Zhu Bajie, the guy who always found ways to be lazy.

After hearing this, Tang San smiled slightly and answered uncertainly: "Didn't you just say that there was a family up ahead? Bajie should be going there to beg for food!" He looked into the distance, also thinking about Zhu Bajie's situation.

"Let's hurry over and take a look." Tang San suggested.

"Okay, Master, let the white dragon horse run, and I will follow behind." Sun Wukong said, gently patting the white dragon horse's neck, signaling it to speed up.

The white dragon horse galloped forward quickly. About a hundred meters away from the house, they found Zhu Bajie. He was lying in a grass pit by the roadside with his head tucked in, snoring. It turned out that this lazy guy didn't look for a place to stay or a meal, but just found a comfortable place to sleep.

When Sun Wukong saw this, he was immediately furious. He dropped his baggage and rushed forward, stretched out his hand and grabbed one of Zhu Bajie's ears and pulled it hard. Zhu Bajie screamed in pain and opened his eyes in a daze.

"Idiot! I told you to go to the front to beg for food, but instead you stay here and sleep!" Sun Wukong scolded angrily.

Although Zhu Bajie was grimacing in pain, he had not yet fully woken up. He even asked in a daze: "Ah? Really? My father-in-law is here?" Obviously, he was still dreaming of returning to Gao Laozhuang to be a son-in-law.

When Sun Wukong heard this, he was even more furious. He increased the strength of his hand and pulled Zhu Bajie's ear hard. Zhu Bajie finally came to his senses and saw clearly that it was Sun Wukong who was pulling his ear.

"Hey... Brother Monkey, be gentle... be gentle!" Zhu Bajie grimaced in pain, trying to reduce the strength of Sun Wukong's hands, "Where is Master? Where is Master?" He began to look around, looking for Tang San.

Sun Wukong loosened his hand and pointed at Tang San who was sitting on the white dragon horse. Zhu Bajie looked at him and immediately lowered his head in shame. He knew that his laziness was discovered by his master and senior brothers again.

Tang San looked at Zhu Bajie's ashamed look. Although he was a little angry, he was more helpless and sympathetic. He knew that although Zhu Bajie was lazy, he was essentially a kind and somewhat lovely guy. Therefore, he did not blame Zhu Bajie too much, but just sighed softly and said: "Bajie, the journey to obtain scriptures is long and arduous, and each of us needs to work hard to move forward. I hope you can remember this lesson and don't be lazy again in the future."

"How dare you ask Master? What did we say just now? We asked you to go ahead and explore the way and beg for alms, why are you sleeping here?" Sun Wukong angrily pulled Zhu Bajie's big ears and almost lifted him up. Zhu Bajie screamed in pain, but Sun Wukong had no intention of letting go and dragged him all the way to Tang San.

"Master, tell me what to do! This idiot is so unreasonable. He makes me so mad." Sun Wukong threw Zhu Bajie to the ground and said angrily.

Tang San looked at the scene in front of him, frowning slightly. He called out coldly, "Bajie." Although his voice was soft, it carried an unquestionable majesty.

When Zhu Bajie heard his master's call, he was so frightened that he immediately knelt down in front of the white dragon horse and kowtowed, begging for mercy: "Master, I was wrong, I was really wrong, please forgive me this time!"

Tang San jumped down from the white dragon horse, his movements were light and steady. Although he could not compare with super masters like Sun Wukong and Zhu Bajie, after a period of training and Sun Wukong's guidance, his skills had made great progress. At this moment, he was completely different from the weak scholar before.

Tang San walked up to Zhu Bajie and asked calmly, "Bajie, Master ordered you to go ahead to explore the way and beg for alms. Tell me, what did you do?" Although there was no anger in his words, it was full of majesty.

Zhu Bajie raised his head slightly and secretly glanced at Tang San. Seeing that his face was calm but his eyes were sharp, he felt even more uneasy. He stammered, "Master, I... I went to the family in front of me, originally thinking of begging for alms, but the old man pointed at my nose and cursed me as soon as he saw me, and told me to get out of here. He didn't listen to anything I said, and his attitude was very bad, so... so I had to come back..."

After hearing this, Tang San raised his eyebrows slightly, obviously not completely convinced by Zhu Bajie's explanation. He looked at Zhu Bajie deeply, then said slowly: "Bajie, you have followed Master for a while, you should know Master's temper. I don't want you to lie to me."

When Zhu Bajie heard this, he was so frightened that his whole body trembled, and he kowtowed like crazy: "Master, I am telling the truth! I really didn't lie! That old man really kicked me out..."

Sun Wukong snorted coldly, "Humph! This idiot is always lazy. He must be trying to be lazy so he made up such an excuse."

Tang San waved his hand, signaling Sun Wukong to be patient. After thinking for a moment, he said, "In that case, let's go to that family together. Wukong, you lead the way." After saying that, he turned around and walked towards the white dragon horse to get on.

Sun Wukong responded and quickly rushed to the house. Tang San rode on the white dragon horse, and Zhu Bajie quickly got up from the ground and followed. The group soon arrived at the door of the house.

This is a typical farmyard, with adobe walls covered with vines, making it very quiet. The door is half open, and the sound of dogs barking and children laughing can be heard from inside, making it very lively.

Sun Wukong went forward and knocked on the door gently and shouted loudly: "Is there anyone inside? We are the pilgrims from the Eastern Tang Dynasty who would like to stay here for one night and have some vegetarian food."

Soon the gate was opened and an old man poked his head out. He looked at the people outside the door with a puzzled look on his face: "Who are you? What's the matter?"

Tang San hurried forward and saluted, saying, "Old man, we are from the Eastern Land Tang Dynasty seeking scriptures. We passed by here and would like to stay here for one night and have some vegetarian food. I wonder if you can help us?"

The old man looked embarrassed after hearing Tang San's words: "Oh, I'm so sorry, our family really doesn't have any extra room for you to stay. As for the vegetarian meal... We are not rich here, so we really can't offer you anything good..."

After hearing this, Sun Wukong was displeased and said, "How can you say that, old man? We are monks and we won't eat your food for free! Besides, we are just staying for one night..."

"Wukong, don't be rude!" Tang San interrupted Sun Wukong and turned to the old man and said, "Since your family is in trouble, we can't force you. May I ask if there are other families nearby where we can stay overnight?"

The old man thought for a moment and said, "If you walk a short distance along this road, there will be a small village where there should be people willing to let you stay overnight." After saying that, he pointed to a small path ahead.

"Thank you for your guidance, old man!" Tang San thanked him and took his disciples along the path the old man pointed out. Soon they arrived at the small village and found a family who was willing to let them stay overnight.

After this experience, Zhu Bajie also deeply realized his mistakes and expressed his sincere apologies to Tang San and Sun Wukong. He also vowed to work harder to complete the tasks assigned by his master and no longer be lazy. Tang San also patiently taught his disciples and hoped that they could unite as one to complete the great cause of obtaining scriptures.

Sun Wukong was so angry that he scratched his head and cheeks, and his golden hoop in his hand was ready to hit Zhu Bajie at any time. However, at this moment, Tang San reached out his hand in time and stabilized Sun Wukong's golden hoop that was about to fall.

"Wukong, be patient." Tang San's tone was serious and steady. He turned to Zhu Bajie, frowning, obviously very disappointed with his disciple's laziness. He took a deep breath, and then said to Bajie solemnly: "Bajie, I see that your determination to follow me to the west is not strong. If you continue like this, I'm afraid it will delay our journey. Why don't you go back and let me and Wukong go to the west to obtain the scriptures."

Tang San's words were like a heavy bomb, instantly exploding in Zhu Bajie's heart. His originally lazy eyes suddenly became panicked, as if he was sobered up by a cold water. He suddenly raised his head and looked at Tang San, his eyes full of disbelief and pleading.

After Tang San finished speaking, he turned around and prepared to mount his horse to continue their journey to the west. However, just as he was about to mount his horse, Zhu Bajie suddenly burst into tears. The cry was desolate and sad, as if he had lost the most precious thing.

"Hey... Master..." Zhu Bajie cried and shouted, and even squeezed out a few tears. He quickly got up and hugged Tang San's legs, as if he had grabbed the last straw to save his life. He cried and said, "Master, since I have listened to the teachings of the Bodhisattva, of course I will do my best to protect you to the West. Master, I was wrong... You can hit me and scold me, but I will never dare to do it again next time."

Zhu Bajie's crying became louder and louder, and his tears fell like beads from a broken string. Tang San looked at this usually lazy disciple, who was now crying bitterly, and his heart was moved. He began to wonder, did this pig monster really regret it? Or did his tear glands become particularly developed?

Meanwhile, Sun Wukong was still standing aside, snorting. He snorted coldly and turned his head away, obviously unwilling to pay attention to Zhu Bajie. In Sun Wukong's view, this lazy junior fellow was not worthy of sympathy at all. He was more like a good employee who was conscientious and responsible, and hated those sneaky behaviors.

Tang San took a deep breath, he knew he couldn't just let Zhu Bajie continue to be lazy. So, he deliberately dragged out his voice and said: "Okay, Bajie, you did make a mistake this time, but Master can't hold you accountable. How about this, you stay for the time being..."

Hearing this, Zhu Bajie's eyes immediately flashed with a thief's light. He looked at Tang San nervously, afraid to miss every word that his master would say. He didn't know what conditions his master would say, but as long as he could stay and continue his journey to the west to obtain the scriptures, he was willing to pay any price.

Tang San looked at Zhu Bajie's nervous and expectant eyes and couldn't help laughing in his heart. He knew that although this disciple was lazy, he still had a kind heart deep in his heart. So, he continued: "But you must agree to one condition from Master: From now on, you are not allowed to be lazy and sleep again! Otherwise, Master will really let you go back."

Zhu Bajie heaved a sigh of relief when he heard this. He nodded and agreed quickly, "Yes! Yes! Master, don't worry! I will never be lazy and sleep in again! I will definitely protect you on your journey to the West to obtain the scriptures!" After saying this, he even looked at Sun Wukong deliberately, as if to assure him that he would change his ways.

Tang San turned to Sun Wukong, waved his hand, and said, "Wukong, let's go to the front and take a look at that family." Sun Wukong nodded, his eyes revealing a clever and sharp look.

Seeing Tang San getting on the white dragon horse, Sun Wukong immediately urged the dragon horse gently, and in an instant, they arrived at the quiet courtyard on the side of the road. The courtyard wall was shaded by green trees, which seemed particularly quiet.

Tang San got off the horse, and Sun Wukong took the reins. Although Zhu Bajie was reluctant, he had no choice but to put down his burden. The three of them and the horse stood quietly under the green shade, as if they were afraid to break the tranquility.

Tang San leaned on his nine-ring staff, slightly adjusted his cloak made of rattan and bamboo strips, and slowly walked towards the gate of the courtyard. He saw an old man in a short shirt, leaning on a bamboo bed, chanting Buddhist mantras.

Tang San didn't dare to interrupt loudly, but just called softly: "Donor, greetings." The old man jumped up when he heard the voice, quickly straightened his clothes, walked out of the door and returned the greeting: "Elder, sorry to meet you. Where are you from? What do you want to see me for?"

Tang San replied: "I am a monk from the Tang Dynasty in the East. I am going to Leiyin Temple to worship Buddha and seek scriptures under the imperial decree. Now it is getting late, and we hope to stay in your house for one night. I hope you can give us some convenience." When he said this, his expression was quite pious, as if he was repeating a sacred scripture.

However, the old man waved his hand and shook his head, saying: "You can't go. It's difficult to obtain the scriptures in the West. If you want to obtain the scriptures, go to the East." These words shocked Tang San. He pondered for a moment, a shy look appeared on his face, and he didn't know how to answer for a moment.

Sun Wukong was watching from the side, and he couldn't hold back any more. But he still held back his impulse and didn't immediately step forward to argue. Seeing this, Tang San hurriedly said to the old man: "Old donor, we monks have come from afar, just hoping to have a place to rest in the wind and rain. If your house is too small to sleep, we can also sit under the tree for a night and won't disturb you at all."

After hearing what Tang San said, the old man's eyes flashed with hesitation. He looked at Tang San and Sun Wukong, and then glanced at Zhu Bajie and White Dragon Horse beside him, as if he was making a difficult decision.

At this time, a middle-aged woman came out of the house. When she saw Tang San and others outside the door, she smiled kindly. She walked to the old man and said softly, "Dad, it's not easy for these monks to come from afar. Let them stay at our house for one night."

The old man listened to the woman's words and nodded, and the wrinkles on his face seemed to relax a little. He said to Tang San: "In that case, then you can come in. It's just that our house is simple, I hope the elders will not despise it."