Chapter forty-one
Sun Wukong is defeated by fire.
Zhu Bajie is captured by demons.
xīnyuánzāohuǒbài心猿遭火败mùmǔbèimóqín木母被魔擒
How to read this chart:
Discovery of Fiery Cloud Cave
Fiery Cloud CaveWukong and Bajie arrive at a remote cave marked 'Fiery Cloud Cave' and confront a group of small demons guarding it. Wukong threatens to destroy the cave unless they release their captured master (Sanzang).
Capture of Sanzang
Fiery Cloud CaveSanzang is stripped, hog-tied, and prepared for steaming by Red Boy’s demons. The confrontation with Wukong and Bajie interrupts the ritual as news of their arrival spreads.
Confrontation with Red Boy
Fiery Cloud CaveWukong claims kinship with the Red Boy due to their bond with the Bull Demon King and demands Sanzang’s release. Their dialogue turns hostile. Red Boy prepares for battle with a fire-tipped lance.
Battle Between Pilgrims and Red Boy
Fiery Cloud CaveA fierce battle ensues between Wukong’s iron rod and Red Boy’s lance. They engage in a prolonged battle. Bajie observes that the demon is defensive but does not counterattack, while Wukong is skillful. Bajie intervenes with his rake, forcing the demon to flee.
The Demon's Fire Trap
Fiery Cloud CaveThe Red Boy uses a fire-based attack, summoning flames from five carts to trap Wukong and Bajie.
Bajie flees in Fear
Roaring MountainBajie, overwhelmed by the fire, runs away in fear.
Wukong's Retreat
Roaring MountainWukong attempts to fight through the intense heat but is forced to retreat.
Devising a Plan with Wujing
Roaring MountainAfter Wukong and Bajie regroup, Wujing suggests using water to counter the fire. They plan to seek aid from the Eastern Ocean's Dragon King to extinguish the flames and rescue their master.
Requesting Aid at the Eastern Ocean
Dragon Palace of the Eastern OceanWukong arrives at the Dragon King's palace to request water for extinguishing the demonic fire. The Dragon King summons his brothers Aoqin, Aorun, and Aoshun for assistance.
Battle with Red Boy
Roaring MountainWukong engages in a fierce battle with Red Boy, who uses fire attacks. Despite their preparation, the Dragon Kings' rain fails to extinguish the demon's true samadhi fire and worsens the situation by intensifying the flames.
Smoked Monkey
Roaring MountainWukong is injured by smoke from the fire, triggering a fatal collapse into icy water.
Wukong's Apparent Death
Roaring MountainWukong faints after inhaling smoke and is found lifeless by Wujing.
Reviving the Almost Dead Monkey
Roaring MountainBajie revives Wukong using massage. Wukong regains consciousness but laments his failure.
Planning a Rescue Mission
Roaring MountainThe group discusses seeking help from Bodhisattva Guanyin to rescue their master. Bajie volunteers to travel.
The Demon King's Deception
Fiery Cloud CaveThe demon king prepares a leather bag to capture Bajie, planning to cook him. He monitors their movements and intercepts Bajie on his journey.
Deceptive Encounter with the Demon
Roaring MountainThe demon transforms into Guanyin to deceive Bajie. Bajie bows respectfully, falling for the illusion and recounts their master's abduction.
Bajie Tricked into Fiery Cloud Cave
Fiery Cloud CaveBajie is lured back to the cave, where he is captured in a leather bag and threatened with being eaten.
Wukong and Wujing Discuss Bajie's Disappearance
Roaring MountainWukong senses trouble and suspects the Red Boy has captured Bajie. He insists on investigating despite his injuries, while Wujing expresses concern.
Wukong's Sneaky Infiltration
Fiery Cloud CaveTransforming into a cloth wrapper and then a fly, Wukong evades capture by the demons guarding the cave and infiltrates it to investigate.
Wukong Hears Bajie's Vows of Resistance
Fiery Cloud CaveWukong overhears Bajie's defiant ranting from the leather bag and resolves to rescue him after hearing the demon-spirit's threats.
The Six Commanders' Mission
Fiery Cloud CaveThe Red Boy sends six commanders to invite his father to the cave, promising him a meal of the captured Sanzang.