Chapter ninety-three
At Jetavana Park he asks the aged about the cause.
At the Kingdom of India he sees the king and meets a princess.
gěigūyuánwèngǔtányīn给孤园问古谈因tiānzhúguócháowángyùǒu天竺国朝王遇偶
How to read this chart:
Monks Discover Vanished Pilgrims
Mercy Cloud TempleMonks realize Sanzang's group has disappeared during the night, sparking communal guilt and reverence for them as a 'living bodhisattva.' The city mobilizes to honor their departure with offerings.
Mountain Journey and Sutra Discussion
Hundred-Legs MountainThe group debates the Heart Sutra's interpretation while approaching a mountain. Wukong's confidence in understanding sutras clashes with Sanzang's humility, creating subtle tension.
Arrival and Hospitality at Jetavana Monastery
Benefactor-of-Orphans Gold-Spreading MonasteryThe pilgrims arrive at a grand monastery, theorized by Sanzang to be the legendary Jetavana Park from Buddha’s era. They are warmly greeted and hosted; Bajie’s enthusiastic eating causes amusement, while Wujing maintains decorum. Sanzang discusses scriptures with the abbot and learns the site’s history, including warnings about centipede spirits in nearby mountains.
Old Abbot’s Vision and the Imprisoned Princess
Benefactor-of-Orphans Gold-Spreading MonasteryAn ancient abbot greets Sanzang and Wukong, describing visions that mark the pilgrims as divine visitors. He reveals a tragic princess, blown to the monastery by fate, who has been imprisoned in Jetavana Park’s ruins, pretending madness but weeping nightly for her parents. Sanzang and Wukong vow to help rescue the princess and restore her to her family.
Departure from Monastery
Benefactor-of-Orphans Gold-Spreading MonasteryThe group prepares to leave at dawn after staying overnight. Bajie grumbles about the delay, and merchants accompany them through Cock-Crow Pass.
Arrival in Indian City
India KingdomThe pilgrims arrive at a fortified city, passing through its impressive gates. Merchants separate from the group as they approach the College of Interpreters' posthouse.
Arrival at the Posthouse
College of Interpreters PosthouseSanzang and his disciples arrive at a posthouse, present their travel rescript for certification, and are hosted by the posthouse clerk. The clerk is horrified by the disciples' appearances but reassured by Sanzang that they have good hearts.
Preparing for the Court Audience
College of Interpreters PosthouseThe group discusses attending a princess’s embroidered ball ceremony. Wukong convinces Sanzang to watch the event discreetly, arguing it may help verify court activity.
The Embroidered Ball Tossing
India KingdomAt the crossroads, the princess throws an embroidered ball that hits Sanzang. Wukong clears the crowd with a display of power after chaotic reactions to the ball’s landing.
Audience with King
Hall of Golden ChimesThe princess leads Sanzang to the court where the king questions him about the embroidered ball incident. Sanzang explains his mission to seek scriptures and apologizes for accidentally being struck by the princess's ball. The king questions why Sanzang refuses to become the royal son-in-law.
The Princess's Vow
Hall of Golden ChimesThe princess declares her vow to marry whoever is struck by her embroidered ball, asserting it as fate. The king agrees to prepare for their marriage and orders officials to summon Sanzang's disciples.
Disciples' Response to Royal Summons
College of Interpreters PosthouseWukong, Bajie, and Wujing joke and bicker over Sanzang’s impending marriage, with Bajie lamenting he missed the chance at the tower and Wujing rebuking his greed. An official arrives with an invitation to attend court, prompting more teasing before the group departs, determined to support Sanzang despite their anxieties.