Now, because of Bajie's momentary recklessness, the boatman feared his boat would not hold up and refused to ferry Tang Sanzang and the others across.
Tang Sanzang hurriedly said, "Don't be afraid, benefactor. This disciple of mine is clumsy and got flustered for a moment. He certainly won't do it again."
Even after hearing this, the boatman still refused.
Sha Wujing also tried to persuade him with kind words.
But the boatman feared only that his boat would capsize. No matter what they said, he would not relent.
Tang Sanzang had no choice but to say, "Bajie, the benefactor refuses to take you across, and there is nothing I can do. You have always been a good swimmer, so swim across yourself."
Bajie said reluctantly, "You all get to cross by boat, so why am I the only one who has to swim? I won't!"
Wukong said, "Idiot, if you hadn't nearly overturned the boat, why would Master make you swim? Are you going to swim or not?"
Bajie said, "I won't! I won't!"
Wukong said, "You won't? You're asking for a beating!"
Wukong took out the Golden Cudgel.
Bajie hurriedly dodged away.
The sight set the boatman's heart pounding with terror. He repeatedly begged the two to stop, afraid these two strange monks would damage his boat.
Just then, bubbles and waves rose from beneath the water, and a figure emerged.
"Great Sage Sun, Marshal Tianpeng, stop arguing. I'll take you across!"
Hearing this, Wukong looked down and saw that it was the White Softshell Turtle.
Wukong said, "So it's you, turtle spirit. Weren't you serving that demon?"
The White Softshell Turtle said, "I was forced into it and had no choice. Now, thanks to your great kindness, Great Sage, the demon has been eliminated. I would gladly carry