After the two of them arrived at the Imperial City, Wei Zheng, as before, left the carriage outside the city and they walked into the palace.
When they entered Taiji Palace, which they had visited half a year earlier, Ye Chen immediately spotted the emperor seated on the Dragon Throne and Master Xuanzang standing below.
He and Wei Zheng walked over to Master Xuanzang. After clasping their hands and bowing, Ye Chen looked toward the emperor.
"General Ye, how have you prepared for the Journey to the West over the past six months?" the emperor asked him first.
"Your Majesty, I am ready and can set out at any time. I am only waiting for Master Xuanzang to say the word." Ye Chen bowed again as he replied.
"Good. General Ye, I order you to begin today by accompanying Master Xuanzang on his journey west. You must keep him safe along the way. Can you do that?"
We'll meet Sun Wukong in a few months. Does he really need me to protect him? Ye Chen thought, but kept it to himself.
"I will brave fire and water and spare no effort!" Ye Chen replied with firm resolve. The emperor smiled with satisfaction at his words.
"Good, my loyal subject. I chose the right man. I hope you will take good care of Master Xuanzang on the journey west. When the two of you return with the true scriptures, I will reward you both!"
"Thank you, Your Majesty!" Ye Chen bowed deeply.
"You may rise, my loyal subject." After speaking, the emperor looked at Xuanzang. "Master Xuanzang came to see me yesterday and said that today would be a fine day to travel. My loyal subject, don't blame me for not telling you sooner."
"I wouldn't dare." How could Ye Chen