The Bodhi Tree swayed gently, shedding a leaf.
It brushed Wukong's forehead.
Ever so lightly.
The corners of Wukong's eyes, which he had just wiped dry, reddened again.
He looked up at the tree's canopy of green leaves.
"Again?"
The Bodhi Tree shook its branches and leaves.
Its leaves rustled.
Wukong raised a hand to touch his forehead and smiled softly.
Bajie stood beside him, holding it in for a long while, but finally failed.
A snort of laughter escaped him.
Wukong turned to glare at him.
"Idiot, what are you laughing at?"
Bajie hastily sucked in his belly and waved his hands.
"Nothing, nothing."
"A gust of wind just got into Old Pig's throat."
Little White Dragon stood to one side, drew his spear back against his chest, and said:
"Eldest Brother, I was watching closely. He was definitely making fun of you."
Bajie turned to look at him.
"Tsk, Little White, you've changed. You've even learned to tattle!"
Little White Dragon looked away.
"I learned from you."
Bajie's nostrils flared with indignation.
"When have I ever tattled?"
Little White Dragon did not answer.
Sha Wujing watched them with a guileless smile.
Wukong turned back to the Bodhi Tree.
The leaves were rustling.
At last, the corners of his mouth stirred.
"Don't worry."
"This time, I'm not walking alone."
A branch dipped an inch.
The tip of a leaf paused before his forehead, then drew back.
Wukong patted the tree.
Then he suddenly turned and ran toward Bajie, shouting:
"Idiot!"
"Stand still and let me kick you a couple of times to blow off steam!"
Bajie's expression changed drastically. He threw down the Rake and ran.
"Only a fool wouldn't run!"
"Master! Bodhisattva! Are you going to do something about this?"
**"Brother Monkey's bullying me! Sun Wukong's going to