A loud shout cut Xuanzang off.
Sun Wukong abruptly stepped forward, blocking Xuanzang behind him.
He raised his chin slightly and looked at the disciplinary ruler.
Baring a mouthful of stark white fangs, he broke into an unrestrained grin:
"Since everything's been made clear, Old Sun accepts this contest of magic!"
"And Old Sun will take the punishment too!"
He turned back and chuckled at Xuanzang, his furry face brimming with certainty:
"Master, just settle down and be our judge. Watch us show what we can do."
"Leave the rough work of magical contests and beatings to us. Don't you get involved!"
Wukong swept a glance toward the others.
Bajie understood at once. Without hesitation, he stepped forward, standing in front of Xuanzang and behind Wukong.
He turned back and gave Xuanzang a carefree grin:
"Brother Monkey's right. We disciples caused this trouble. It has nothing to do with you, Master. At worst, we'll stand there and take a beating."
Before his words had faded, Little White Dragon hurried to Xuanzang's side.
"Forgive my discourtesy, Master."
He reached out with a slender, fair hand, gently caught Xuanzang's sleeve, and drew him back.
"My senior brothers are right. Stand back this time, Master, and leave it to us."
A-Hu moved half a step forward in perfect accord, steadily supporting Xuanzang and spreading his wings to shelter him beneath them.
Little White Dragon let go. With a turn of his wrist, the Silver Spear appeared in his palm. He stepped forward and planted himself firmly to Bajie's left:
"If we fight, we fight together!"
Sha Wujing did not lag behind either. Gripping the Demon-Subduing Treasure Staff in both hands, he strode out and stood to Bajie's right like a wrathful vajra guardian.
Sha Wujing roared in his deep, muffled voice, "My senior