Chapter eighty-three
Wukong discovers the elixir’s origin.
The maiden returns to her true nature.
xīnyuánshídédāntóu心猿识得丹头chànǚháiguīběnxìng姹女还归本性
How to read this chart:
Rescue from the Demon-Spirit
After Sanzang is escorted out of the cave, Wukong reveals he was inside the demon-spirit’s belly. He escapes through her mouth by transforming his iron rod into a nail to prop it open, then immediately battles the demon-spirit with his staff.
Discussion and Strategy
Bajie criticizes Wukong’s escape method, suggesting he should have fought his way out. Wujing proposes they help Wukong, and both join the battle.
Fierce Battle and Demon-Spirit's Escape
The three disciples fight the demon-spirit, who, realizing defeat is imminent, transforms her slipper into a decoy and escapes as a gust of wind. She abducts Sanzang and the horse, taking them back into the cave.
Return and Realization
Bottomless CaveThe disciples return to the cave and discover Sanzang is missing. Wukong is distraught, but Bajie encourages him to try rescuing their master a third time.
Second Entry into the Cave
Bottomless CaveWukong enters the cave alone, finds it empty, and discovers a golden incense urn and two plaques honoring Devaraja Li and Nezha. He takes these items, suspecting they are clues to the demon-spirit’s identity.
Wukong's Discovery and Complaint Plan
Bottomless CaveWukong shows the plaques to his companions, deducing the demon-spirit is connected to Devaraja Li and Nezha. Bajie questions the plan, but Wukong drafts a formal complaint accusing them of negligence. He heads to Heaven to file the complaint, leaving Bajie and Wujing to guard the cave.
Wukong Presents His Complaint Before the Jade Emperor
HeavenWukong presents his evidence and complaint to the Jade Emperor, who approves the case and sends Gold Star Venus to summon Devaraja Li.
Devaraja Li Reacts to the Accusations
HeavenDevaraja Li, angered by Wukong’s accusations and past conflicts, attempts to arrest Wukong, but Gold Star Venus intervenes to prevent violence.
Nezha's Homecoming and Rebellion
HeavenA flashback recounts Nezha’s origins: after causing chaos in the water crystal palace, he cuts off his own flesh to repay his parents and seeks Buddha’s help in the West.
Buddha's Revivification
HeavenBuddha revives Nezha with a lotus-root body, granting him divine powers to subdue demons. Nezha later seeks vengeance on Devaraja Li for his past suffering.
The Pagoda's Symbolism
HeavenTo pacify Nezha, Tathagata gives Devaraja Li a golden pagoda as a symbol of Buddha, serving as a reminder to revere Buddha and maintain peace.
Confrontation Over the 'Daughter'
HeavenNezha clarifies that the demon-spirit is not Devaraja Li’s blood daughter, but a spirit who set up the tablets and calls him father by bond. Wukong, still bound, demands justice for Sanzang.
Gold Star's Mediation
HeavenGold Star Venus mediates between Wukong and Devaraja Li, recalling their shared history and suggesting that prolonged litigation would waste time.
Heavenly Council and Decree Returned
HeavenWukong and Gold Star Venus discuss returning the imperial decree. Devaraja Li agrees to deploy troops to subdue the demon, and the Jade Emperor pardons him.
Assembly of Forces at Mount Void-Entrapping
The group assembles at Mount Void-Entrapping. Devaraja Li, Nezha, and celestial warriors prepare to confront the demon-spirit, with Wukong providing details about the Bottomless Cave.
Search of the Bottomless Cave
Bottomless CaveWukong and Nezha lead the troops into the Bottomless Cave, searching for the demon-spirit. The cave is vast and beautiful, but they initially find no trace of her.
Discovery of the Hidden Lair
Bottomless CaveThey discover a hidden small cave where the demon-spirit is holding Sanzang hostage. After a surprise attack by the celestial warriors, the demon-spirit is captured and pleads for mercy, but is taken for judgment.
Return to Heaven
The captured demon-spirit is taken to Heaven to face trial.
Journey Resumes
With the demon-spirit captured, the group resumes their journey westward.