Dongchan Temple.
Chen Xuan and Bai Chuan, who originally planned to just pay their respects and leave, ended up joining a long line due to a Q/A session being hosted by the resident monks.
They queued from early morning until nearly noon, before it was finally their turn.
"When it's your turn, make sure to donate the incense money first, then ask the Master your questions."
Bai Chuan handed Chen Xuan $20 cash and quietly reminded him.
Although providing answers is free, a donation box sits beside the table for visitors to contribute.
"But if I donate first, won't the Master just adjust his guidance based on this $20 I have tipped?"
Chen Xuan disagreed, stating, "Why don't we chat first, then donate? This way, the Master won't know how much I'm going to tip, and he'll have to bring his A-game."
"Do you think we look like we're going to tip a lot?"