Demons Coveted A Bei, but Wukong Refused to Become a Grand-Disciple (Two Chapters in One)

"Amitabha. This humble monk never said he was a mortal," A Bei answered Sun Wukong, holding one palm upright.

Then he urged his horse onward, continuing to eat the unfinished grilled fish.

Sun Wukong blinked and caught up again, calling to A Bei, "Even if you're not a mortal and aren't afraid of these bandits, what about demons? Aren't you afraid of demons either? State Preceptor, let me tell you, there are plenty of Great Demons along the road from the Great Tang to the Western Heaven. Every last one is vicious beyond measure. You might know a few spells, but you haven't ascended yet. You're absolutely no match for them. Only with my protection can you make it there safely. Have you heard a word I've said?"

"This humble monk heard you. But we are neither kin nor friends, benefactor. Having you protect me the entire way would weigh on my conscience. Hmm, how about this..."

Sun Wukong hastily asked, "How about what?"

"Besides being the Great Tang's State Preceptor, this humble monk is also the abbot of the White Bear Temple. I have a disciple there named Xuanzang. I could accept you as his disciple on his behalf. From now on, you would be my grand-disciple. That way..."

"You want me to be your grandson?!" Before A Bei could finish, Sun Wukong bristled from head to toe, gripping his Golden-Banded Staff and shouting at him.

A Bei nodded. "That would give you a proper reason to travel west with this humble monk."

"Why don't you acknowledge me as your grandmaster instead?" Sun Wukong pointed back at himself and demanded.

A Bei gave him a long look, ignored him, and rode past him.

Sun Wukong turned to watch A Bei recede into the distance. This time, he did not