The air in the hall grew still.
A little while passed.
The door to the inner room opened.
The old man came in first.
Another man followed him inside.
This man was older still and leaned on a walking stick.
The moment he entered the hall and his eyes fell on Wukong and the others, he stopped in his tracks, his body swaying.
The first old man hurried forward and supported his arm.
"Don't be alarmed, elder brother."
"These elders are not evil demons."
"They are Arhats from the Great Tang in the Eastern Land, journeying to fetch the scriptures."
"Though the disciples look fierce, beneath their fearsome faces lie kind hearts. They are courteous and well-mannered, all fine fellows escorting the Holy Monk on his Journey to the West."
The older man's throat bobbed.
He looked at Wukong first.
Wukong had already risen, putting aside his earlier languid manner, and cupped his hands.
"Venerable benefactor, sorry for the intrusion."
Then he looked at Bajie.
With his long snout, large ears, and broad belly, Bajie also stood and pressed his palms together with a cheerful smile.
"Don't be afraid, venerable benefactor."
"We really are monks."
The old man froze at his words.
Sha Wujing rose as well, pressed his palms together, and said in a deep voice:
"Amitabha Buddha. Sorry for the intrusion, benefactor."
Little White Dragon stood by the door. Though he said little, he too pressed his palms together and nodded, observing every courtesy.
Seeing that their strange appearances were not matched by uncouth behavior, the old man finally breathed a sigh of relief and returned their greetings.
Supporting each other, the two old men walked into the hall and bowed deeply to Sanzang.
Sanzang rose and returned the bow.
"This humble monk greets you both."
"We