At the sight of the newcomer, golden light flashed in Wukong's eyes. He immediately sprang off his stool and started forward.
"The Flaming Mountain Earth God?"
Bajie had already hurried ahead to greet him. Draping an arm around the Earth God's shoulders, he laughed. "Earth God, you old rascal! We were just about to look for you, and here you've delivered yourself right to our door!"
As he spoke, however, his eyes settled on the large copper basin atop the Carved-Beak, Fish-Gilled Demon's head.
The Earth God did not dodge him, but merely smiled. "This lesser deity has been remiss. Please forgive me, Elders."
Wukong called from behind him, "Idiot!"
Little White Dragon added, "What's the rush?"
Bajie turned back. "Look at you lot. He's even brought us food! Whatever you want to ask, it can wait until we've eaten."
"Elder Pig is right," the Earth God said. "Please have your meal first."
Wukong raised an eyebrow and went no farther. The Earth God looked at him too. Their gazes met, but neither said another word.
Six-Eared Macaque kept his head lowered. His ears twitched slightly, but he still said nothing.
Xuanzang had already risen. With A-Hu following behind, he approached, pressed his palms together, and bowed slightly. "I, Xuanzang, thank you for bringing us this meal, benefactor."
The Earth God turned toward him, a smile returning to his face. "You are too kind, Holy Monk."
Then he barked at the figure behind him, "Hurry up and serve the meal! What are you standing there for?"
The Carved-Beak, Fish-Gilled Demon entered the courtyard with his head lowered, took the copper basin down from his head, and held it before him.
Steamed buns, cakes, porridge, and Yellow Millet Rice all gave off steam inside the basin.
Bajie grabbed a rice cake