Chapter sixty-eight
In the Scarlet-Purple Kingdom, Sanzang discusses past lives.
Wukong demonstrates healing an arm broken in three places.
zhūzǐguótángsēnglùnqiánshì朱紫国唐僧论前世sūnxíngzhěshīwéisānzhégōng孙行者施为三折肱
How to read this chart:
Arrival and Exploration of Scarlet-Purple Kingdom
Scarlet-Purple KingdomThe pilgrims arrive at the moated Scarlet-Purple Kingdom, debate its identity, and explore its lively streets, attracting curious stares from the citizens.
Seeking Hospitality
College of InterpretersThe pilgrims seek lodging at the College of Interpreters, where officials greet them and provide modest accommodations and food.
Audience with the King
Scarlet-Purple KingdomSanzang requests an audience to certify his travel rescript. The king inquires about the Tang dynasty and his own illness, prompting Sanzang to recount Wei Zheng’s role and the quest for scriptures.
Market Errands Lead to the Royal Proclamation
College of InterpretersThe pilgrims prepare tea and rice but lack seasonings, so Wukong persuades Bajie to go to the market.
Wukong Steals the Royal Proclamation
Scarlet-Purple KingdomWukong finds a crowd gathered around a royal proclamation seeking a physician, uses magic to become invisible, steals the proclamation, and hides it in Bajie's bosom while Bajie sleeps by the wall.
Bajie Discovered by Palace Guards
Scarlet-Purple KingdomPalace guards and eunuchs search the crowd, discover the missing royal proclamation in Bajie's bosom, and confront him about the theft.
Confrontation at the College
College of InterpretersThe palace guards escort Bajie to the College of Interpreters to confront Wukong, who admits to taking the proclamation and agrees to heal the king, earning the officials' respect.
Wukong is Invited to Heal the King
Scarlet-Purple KingdomEunuchs and palace guards report that Wukong claims he can cure the king, prompting the king to send officials to invite Wukong personally.
Wukong's Bold Entrance at Court
Scarlet-Purple KingdomWukong arrives at court, boldly declares himself, frightening the king and drawing criticism from the officials for his rudeness.
Wukong's Medical Approach and Defiance
Scarlet-Purple KingdomWukong recites medical principles, earning the royal physician's approval, and is allowed to use the 'Dangling a Thread' technique to take the king's pulse.
Wukong's Magical Preparation in the Palace
Scarlet-Purple KingdomSanzang scolds Wukong, who insists he can handle the situation. An attendant invites Wukong into the palace, where he pulls three hairs from his tail and transforms them into golden threads.