Xuanzang and the others nodded at these words. This family sounded fairly kindhearted.
"Masters, you should eat soon, or the food will grow cold," the woman said with a smile.
"Then thank you, benefactress."
Since they were being so hospitable, how could Xuanzang refuse?
"After we finish eating, we will repay you in some way. For instance, if there is any work you need done, we can help you with it. Or we can gather herbs from these mountains and give them to you as thanks," Xuanzang added.
"Master, you are too polite. We do not do these things expecting anything in return."
"This humble monk naturally knows that you expect no repayment. But we monks cannot simply eat for free either. Otherwise, if all monks in the world behaved this way, going out to beg for alms and eat others' food without contributing any labor, then they would merely be a group of people wasting grain.
"If one day, everyone in the Three Realms became monks, then tell me, who would farm and produce food? Without food, how could all living things survive?
"Therefore, this humble monk must offer you some recompense. I absolutely cannot gain something without working for it and eat free meals."
Xuanzang looked at the woman and spoke earnestly.
The woman was slightly taken aback, looking at Xuanzang before her in surprise. She had not expected him to say such things.
"Master, you truly are different from ordinary monks. Since you insist, I shall agree," the girl said with a smile.
Xuanzang nodded as well and prepared to accept their meal.
"Master Xuanzang!"
Goku's voice rang out from the air.
He swiftly flew over, landing before Xuanzang as he looked toward the woman.
Goku had been searching all across White Tiger Ridge without finding any