Now, after Wukong rescued the Queen, he returned to the Grand Preceptor's Residence.
The Grand Preceptor was overjoyed to see them. She hurried to pay her respects to the Queen and thanked Wukong and the others for rescuing her.
Yet the Queen herself remained unhappy throughout.
Wukong could not feel happy either.
Everyone asked what had happened.
The Queen told them of the love between her and Ao Tu.
Bajie said, "What did I tell you?"
The Grand Preceptor started to speak, then stopped, utterly unable to understand this.
Tang Sanzang said, "Your Majesty, this was all my fault for failing to think things through, and my disciples' fault for acting rashly. But humans and demons ultimately walk different paths. I hope Your Majesty will put the kingdom first."
The Queen said, "Say no more. Since you rescued me at the Grand Preceptor's request, I have no reason to blame you. Withdraw."
Tang Sanzang said, "Your Majesty..."
The Queen ignored Tang Sanzang and instead told the Grand Preceptor, "As for our kingdom, I will begin making arrangements to pass on the throne over the next few days."
The Grand Preceptor cried out in alarm, "Your Majesty, you must not! You absolutely must not! Your Majesty!"
Tang Sanzang said, "Your Majesty, please think twice!"
The Queen said, "My mind is made up. Once I have passed on the throne, I wish only to return to Pipa Cave and wait for my king to come back."
Just then, Sha Wujing caught up from behind and said, "Eldest Brother, I burned that Demon Cave to the ground!"
Several days later, the Queen ascended the throne once more. Expressionlessly, she stamped the Precious Seal on the Passbook and sent Tang Sanzang and his disciples westward.
Bajie grumbled, "That Queen is so stingy. She