Li Jing cupped his hands and returned the greeting.
"This humble king greets you, Holy Monk."
"I have long heard of your journey west to seek the scriptures, Holy Monk, but never had the chance to meet you."
"It is truly a blessing to meet you today."
Xuanzang said, "You are too kind, Heavenly King."
Li Jing straightened up.
Nearby, the crimson cloud slowly descended.
The Fire Virtue Star Lord approached from the other side with several divine generals of the Fire Department.
He still held the Red Banner in his hand.
The Fire Virtue Star Lord came before Xuanzang and cupped his hands.
"I am the Fire Virtue Star Lord. Greetings, Holy Monk!"
Xuanzang pressed his palms together again.
"This humble monk greets you, Star Lord."
The Fire Virtue Star Lord hurriedly returned the greeting.
"I am glad you are unharmed, Holy Monk."
"Our fire implements went out of control just now, melting the snow across the mountain and nearly harming you."
He lowered his gaze to the Red Banner in his hand.
The Fire Virtue Star Lord gave a bitter smile.
"The fault lies with my Fire Department's lax oversight."
"I am deeply ashamed."
Xuanzang shook his head.
"This flood and fire both arose from the trials of my journey west. How could I blame you, Star Lord?"
"You led the gods in gathering up the heavenly fire in time and protecting the mountain's living creatures. Thank you for your efforts, Star Lord, and sorry for the trouble today."
After hearing this, the shame on the Fire Virtue Star Lord's face eased somewhat.
"What matters is that you are safe, Holy Monk."
The Yellow River Water Earl and the two Thunder Gods, Deng Hua and Zhang Fan, also came over.
The three approached Xuanzang and bowed together.
"This