Chapter twenty-nine
Freed from peril, River Float arrives at the kingdom.
With royal favor, Bajie ventures into the forest.
tuōnànjiāngliúláiguótǔ脱难江流来国土chéngēnbājièzhuǎnshānlín承恩八戒转山林
How to read this chart:
Disciples' Battle with the Demon
Current-Moon CaveBajie and Wujing battle the Yellow Robe Demon for over thirty rounds, unable to prevail due to the demon's strength. They are secretly aided by the Six Gods of Light and Darkness, the Guardians of Five Quarters, Four Sentinels, and Eighteen Guardian-Spirits, who ensure the disciples' survival because Sanzang's fate is not yet sealed.
Sanzang Meets the Princess in Captivity
Current-Moon CaveSanzang, bound and weeping for his disciples, is approached by Princess Hundred Flowers' Shame, who reveals her identity and tragic captivity for thirteen years as the demon's wife. She offers to save Sanzang if he delivers a letter to her parents, the king and queen of Precious Image Kingdom, and writes the letter before freeing him.
Princess Convinces the Demon Husband
Current-Moon CaveThe princess tricks the demon by claiming a dream about a divine vow, emotionally manipulating him to spare Sanzang as fulfillment of her vow to feed monks. She persuades the demon to let Sanzang go out the back door, ensuring his safety.
Escape and Reunion
Current-Moon CaveBajie and Wujing, released by the demon, find Sanzang hiding in thorny bushes behind the cave. They reunite, and Sanzang vows to deliver the princess's letter to her parents as they escape together.
Arrival at the Precious Image Kingdom
Precious-Image KingdomThe group travels, bickering and blaming each other for their ordeal, and eventually reaches the prosperous city of the Precious Image Kingdom. They rest at a post-house, marveling at the city's beauty and recalling the Tang court.
Audience at the Precious Image Court
Precious-Image KingdomSanzang seeks an audience with the king, presents his travel rescript, and requests certification. He delivers the princess's letter, which deeply moves the king and court.
Princess's Letter of Sorrow
Precious-Image KingdomThe princess's letter is read aloud, recounting her abduction during the Festival of Immaculate Heavens, her forced marriage, and her plea for rescue.
Court's Desperation Over Princess's Abduction
Precious-Image KingdomThe king is distraught and weeps loudly; the officials are also overcome with grief and prostrate themselves, urging the king to desist from sorrow. Officials admit their inability to fight the demon and suggest that Sanzang's disciples, as holy monks, should subdue the demon and rescue the princess.
Discussion and Invitation to the Disciples
Precious-Image KingdomSanzang explains his disciples' abilities and their unusual, fearsome appearances; the king laughs and sends a golden plaque to invite them to court despite their looks.
Arrival of Ugly Disciples Causes Shock
Precious-Image KingdomBajie and Wujing arrive, bowing once before standing erect, shocking the court with their grotesque appearances and behavior. The king is frightened and falls from his throne, but recovers after Sanzang's explanation.
King Consults Monks on Demon Subjugation
Precious-Image KingdomThe king asks Bajie and Wujing about their demon-subduing abilities; Bajie boasts, demonstrates his transformation by growing to giant size, and defends his muckrake as a weapon. The king offers wine and blessings, and after a royal farewell, Bajie and Wujing soar on clouds toward the demon's cave.
Departure for the Current-Moon Cave
Precious-Image KingdomThe king anxiously begs Sanzang to stay, fearing for his safety, but Sanzang explains he cannot fly and remains at the palace.
Battle at the Cave Entrance
Current-Moon CaveBajie and Wujing arrive at the cave, break down the door with Bajie's rake, and confront the demon king, demanding he release the princess. A fierce battle ensues, with divine weapons clashing and accusations exchanged.
Bajie's Retreat into the Brambles
Casserole MountainAs the battle drags on and Bajie tires, he pretends to flee into the brambles, leaving Wujing to fight alone. Bajie hides in the thorns, listening with his ear out, avoiding the fight while chaos continues outside.
Wujing's Capture by the Demon
Current-Moon CaveWith Bajie gone, Wujing is left to face the demon alone and is quickly overpowered. The demon captures and binds Wujing, leaving him vulnerable as the chapter ends.