Merit Golden Light fused into his body, and the swelling in Xuanzang's red eyes finally subsided a little. Yet his spirits remained low, as though his soul had been hollowed out.
He touched the torn monk's robe that Scorpion Demoness's "Ten Thousand Ants Gnawing at the Heart, Bone-Softening Itch" had shredded, recalling that terrifying moment when he had nearly lost his chastity. Grief and indignation surged within him.
"Wukong... your master... needs... some peace... Find somewhere... without female demons..."
Sun Wukong, barely holding back his laughter, said, "Rest assured, Master! The road ahead will surely be smooth! Old Sun will clear the way!"
Zhu Bajie rubbed his belly. "Exactly, exactly! Better yet, let there be a melon patch so Old Pig can calm his nerves! That demoness just now... tsk tsk... she really had some fire! What a pity..."
Sha Wujing silently nodded, warily scanning their surroundings.
The four master and disciples, along with the horse, traveled for another month or so, still carrying the exhaustion of having narrowly survived disaster.
The mountains ahead gradually leveled out, and the woods grew lush and verdant. Everything looked peaceful.
Xuanzang's tightly wound nerves finally relaxed a little.
"Amitabha... At last... peace..."
Before his words had faded!
Dust billowed across the official road ahead!
A troop of riders, banners fluttering, blocked their path!
At their head stood a general of truly imposing bearing!
Behold that general:
Upon his head: a phoenix-winged golden helm gleaming beneath the sun!
Upon his body: Chain Mail of Golden Armor!
Over it: a crimson battle robe embroidered with round floral patterns!
At his waist: a Lion Belt set with fine jade!
Upon his feet: tiger-head battle boots standing firm on cloud-patterned soles!
His face resembled a red date, and his crimson beard flowed in the wind!
His eyes