VIAJE AL OESTE Las Aventuras del Rey Mono cap 11

Chapter 11: The Return of Taun

Taun's Resurrection and Reflection on Life

• After traversing the underworld, Taun returns to life following an offering of melons and other fruits. Liyuan remarries, marking a passage of 100 years where life's efforts are likened to mere foam and smoke.

• The relentless toil of termites symbolizes the illusion of life; however, practicing virtue is suggested to prolong life in ways unknown to us. Those who embrace goodness will find divine assistance.

Encounter with the Imperial Guards

• In a moment of confusion, Taun feels surrounded by imperial guards inviting him to join a hunting party. He accepts but soon finds himself alone in desolate fields after they vanish.

• Hearing someone call out "Emperor of the Tang," Taun turns to see a man adorned in white silk with strange black strips and a rhinoceros horn at his waist.

Meeting the Former Prime Minister

• The man, glowing in holy light and wearing boots suitable for walking among clouds, introduces himself as a former Prime Minister now working closely with the king of Lades.

• Upon meeting this figure, who has come to welcome him, Taun expresses regret for his delayed arrival.

A Message from Ween

• The man explains that he rushed over after learning about an accusation against Taun regarding the spirit of the dragon from Ching River. This led to orders for arrest by King Chin Cuang.

• He identifies himself as Tsue Yue, having served as magistrate before becoming vice president of rites. His role now includes judging souls in the city of death.

Discussion on Friendship and Duty

• Delighted by Tsue's presence, Taun thanks him for coming despite difficulties caused by his own actions. He mentions Ween as one of his main collaborators who sent a letter through him.

• Tsue reads Ween's letter expressing respect towards him while reminiscing about their brotherhood and lamenting their long separation due to distance between realms.

Plea for Assistance

• Ween shares gratitude for past kindnesses from Taun while acknowledging that he has only been able to offer sacrifices during festivals since their last meeting.

• He expresses deep appreciation for being remembered by Taun despite their separation across worlds filled with light and darkness.

Urgency Regarding Emperor’s Fate

• Ween informs that their esteemed Emperor has died unexpectedly and urges action so that he may return to life again through intervention at the tribunal.

• After reading Ween's heartfelt plea, Tsue expresses admiration for Judge Weichen’s recent actions against an old dragon which benefited his children posthumously.

Invitation from Young Messengers

The Journey to the City of Shadows

Arrival at the City

• The protagonist, Taun, notices a grand city with a golden inscription reading "the region of the Shadows, door of the Spirits" as he enters. This sets a mystical tone for his journey.

• As they proceed, Taun encounters spirits including former Emperor Liyuan and his deceased brothers who demand vengeance against him, creating an atmosphere of tension and confusion.

Description of the City

• The city features magnificent architecture with green tiles and colorful mist enveloping its highest points, indicating a vibrant yet eerie environment.

• Ornate doors adorned with jade and gold nails lead into spaces filled with incense smoke and radiant curtains that resemble storm rays, enhancing the otherworldly ambiance.

Guardians and Signage

• Fierce bull-headed warriors guard one side while horse-faced guardians protect another, emphasizing the city's duality between beauty and danger. Numerous golden signs hang throughout, including one marking "central door of hell," hinting at deeper themes of mortality and judgment.

• As Taun observes this peculiar place, he hears sounds associated with divine incense and jade belts as he descends stairs preceded by torchbearers. This sensory detail enriches the narrative's immersive quality.

Meeting the Ten Kings

• Upon entering a significant hall known as "the treasure hall of darkness," Taun is greeted by ten kings from the underworld who invite him to take an honored seat—a gesture reflecting their respect despite their different realms.

• Despite their insistence on honoring him due to his status in the world of light versus their existence in darkness, Taun humbly declines this honor out of respect for their roles as spirit kings. His modesty highlights his character depth amidst supernatural circumstances.

Accusations Against Taun

• King Chinan accuses Taun of failing to save a dragon's life when promised; this accusation introduces conflict regarding responsibility and moral obligations within leadership roles across realms.

• In response to accusations about not preventing an execution ordered by Judge Weichen due to unforeseen circumstances during dreams, Taun explains his efforts were thwarted despite good intentions—showcasing themes of fate versus free will in governance decisions.

Reflection on Life Span

• The ten kings reveal that they have long known about Taun’s impending death recorded in "the book of death," which adds layers to discussions about destiny and preordained paths within spiritual beliefs surrounding life cycles in this universe.

Return to the Realm of Light

The Journey Begins

• Taun's case has been reviewed, and he is to be sent back to the Realm of Light. He expresses gratitude as the ten kings order his escort back to the world of the living.

• Taun inquires about the fate of those in his palace; the kings respond cryptically that all will age significantly except for his younger sister, who may not live long.

Offering Gratitude

• Taun offers melons and other fruits as a token of gratitude upon reaching the Realm of Light, which pleases the ten kings. They express their appreciation for this gesture.

• The kings mention they have melons from various regions but lack those from the south, prompting Taun's promise to send them once he returns.

Navigating Through Shadows

• As they prepare to leave, Taun notices they are taking a different route than before and questions whether they are lost; the judge reassures him that this is intentional.

• The judge explains that they are avoiding areas associated with reincarnation traps by taking a longer path through darkness. This revelation causes Taun some doubt but he continues on their designated route.

Encountering Perilous Terrain

• They come across a towering mountain shrouded in dark clouds, which worries Taun; he asks if they can safely cross it. The judge attempts to calm him by affirming their guidance through this treacherous area.

• As they ascend, Taun finds the mountain steep and difficult compared to others he's encountered, noting its terrifying nature even within such a dark realm.

A Desolate Landscape

• The mountain is devoid of life or beauty; only thorny bushes shelter demons and twisted rocks house monsters, creating an atmosphere filled with despair and abandonment.

• There is an eerie silence throughout as no animals inhabit this place—only cold winds and persistent black mist hint at lurking evil entities nearby.

Crossing into Hellish Realms

• Upon crossing over from the mountain, they arrive at a location filled with numerous rooms where cries of anguish echo painfully—a place identified as "the hell of eighteen folds."

The Consequences of Greed and the Journey Through the Underworld

The Punishment of Greed

• The text describes how greed leads to horrific consequences, with individuals bound in chains for their sins against nature and humanity.

• Those punished experience extreme suffering, tormented by demons wielding long weapons, highlighting the severity of their transgressions.

• It is emphasized that both vice and virtue eventually receive their due recompense; time reveals all actions to the gods.

Encountering Demonic Soldiers

• Taung encounters a group of demon soldiers who show respect by bowing down, indicating a hierarchy even among the damned.

• They cross a golden bridge leading to another silver bridge where just travelers pass, contrasting with the horrors seen on the other side.

The Bridge Without Return

• A description of a terrifying bridge filled with turbulent waters symbolizes an insurmountable barrier between life and death.

• The bridge is perilous, lacking safety measures while being surrounded by chained demons eager to consume anyone who dares cross it.

Eternal Suffering

• Spirits condemned to eternal struggle are depicted as desperate beings fighting against iron dogs and serpents that prey on them.

• Their plight evokes deep compassion as they are trapped in this state forever, illustrating themes of despair and hopelessness.

Arrival at the City of Death

• Taung arrives at the city where he hears voices announcing Lee Shermin's approach, which fills him with dread.

• He encounters a swarm of spirits demanding their lives back, showcasing their violent deaths and unfulfilled desires for redemption.

Seeking Redemption through Generosity

• The judge explains that these spirits suffer from hunger and cold due to their lack of possessions after violent deaths; offering them help could turn them into allies.

The Journey of Souls and the Path to Enlightenment

Distribution of Wealth Among Spirits

• The Grand Marshal distributed silver and gold coins among the spirits, as instructed by the judge, who emphasized using them wisely.

• The judge urged the spirits to allow the Great Father of the Tang to continue his journey, promising a funeral ceremony in his honor upon reaching the world of the living.

Crossing into the Realm of Light

• After a long journey, they reached a crossroads known as "the six paths of transmigration," witnessing countless souls on clouds.

• Various beings were observed, including monks and animals, all destined for their preordained paths beneath the wheel of transmigration.

Understanding Transmigration and Virtue

• The Emperor was advised to share these observations with others in the realm of the living; enlightenment allows for deeper understanding.

• The judge explained that good deeds lead to rewards such as immortality or noble rebirth while vices result in demonic transformations.

Importance of Virtuous Living

• Eler de Losan expressed awe at how virtuous actions prevent illness and promote well-being.

• Emphasizing kindness and charity is crucial; those denying retribution are blind to reality.

Final Instructions Before Departure

• The judge guided them towards nobility's path but could not accompany them further; he reminded them about honoring forgotten souls upon returning.

• He warned that any failure to uphold virtue would lead to unrest in their governed region.

Transition Back to Life

• The Emperor committed to following all recommendations from the judge before parting ways emotionally.

• As they began their journey back, an urgent reminder was given for haste back home before time ran out.

Mourning in Tang Dynasty

• Upon returning, significant figures gathered at Eastern Palace mourning for a deceased emperor alongside discussions about public announcements regarding his death.

The Return of the Emperor

The Discussion on Immortality

• A minister sarcastically questions the purpose of discussing immortality, referencing a proverb about the impossibility of reviving the dead.

• Suddenly, a voice emerges from a coffin, startling officials and ladies present, indicating an unexpected twist in the narrative.

Reactions to the Voice

• The attendees exhibit extreme fear; their physical reactions are described as losing energy and becoming flaccid like spring buds.

• Many women faint while men remain petrified with fear, creating a chaotic atmosphere reminiscent of destruction.

Courage Amidst Fear

• Only a few individuals muster courage to approach the coffin and address the voice, pleading for it to stop terrorizing them.

• They assure that they are there to help and encourage calmness amidst panic.

The Emperor's Experience

• The emperor expresses his harrowing experience escaping malevolent demons while nearly drowning in a river.

• A minister suggests that he is still under some influence from the dead and orders medicine to restore his spirit.

Recovery and Reflection

• After three days in death's realm, the emperor returns to life; this event is poetically noted as significant compared to historical changes in kingdoms.

• Upon waking, ministers return dressed in vibrant colors after mourning, signaling hope and renewal following his resurrection.

The Emperor's Majesty Restored

• The emperor wakes refreshed after sleeping soundly through the night; he adorns himself with royal attire that symbolizes his authority.

• His presence commands respect as he prepares to address his ministers who eagerly await news of his awakening.

Addressing His Ministers

• Upon gathering all ministers, he invites them to present any matters needing attention after his long absence.

• Ministers respectfully inquire about why he was dormant for so long and what caused him to awaken at this moment.

Encounter with Death

The Journey to the Underworld and Return

Encounter with the Judges

• The protagonist delivers a letter from We Chen to Judge Shue, leading to an audience with the ten kings of the underworld.

• The reason for this summons is revealed: a complaint from the Dragon of the Ching River regarding a broken promise that led to his execution.

• After explaining his side, assurances are given that his case will be dismissed by a tribunal of three judges; it is confirmed he still has 20 years left on Earth.

The Ten Kings' Decision

• The ten kings order Judge Shue and Grand Marshal Chou to return him to the living world after he promises offerings of melons and fruits in gratitude.

• As they depart, they encounter hell where traitors and wrongdoers suffer various tortures, including fire and chains; this sight proves overwhelming for the protagonist.

Crossing Through Death's City

• They pass through the City of Death, encountering bandits who demand money for passage; Judge Shue guarantees their safe passage.

• The protagonist borrows gold from Sian in Onan province, satisfying the spirits guarding their path.

Return to Life

• Upon reaching a crossroads of transmigration, Marshal Chou throws him into the river Way as part of his return journey to life.

• His return is celebrated by ministers who inform Emperor Taichung about what transpired.

Acts of Virtue by Emperor Taichung

• In response to these events, Emperor Taichung declares a general amnesty for prisoners and grants them time with their families before execution.

• He also commits to caring for orphans and frees over 3,000 maidens from his palace, marrying them off honorably.

A New Era of Virtue

• Under Taichung’s rule, virtue flourishes in society; comparisons are made between his reign and those of legendary rulers Yao and Shun.

• A new decree emphasizes that personal gain leads only to punishment while selflessness brings happiness both now and in future lives.

The Sacrifice of Li Chuan

The Call for a Volunteer

• A request was made for a volunteer to deliver fruits and melons promised to the Shadow region. This followed an earlier decree where Taun sent gold and silver to settle debts with Sian Liang.

Li Chuan's Tragic Backstory

• Li Chuan, from the wealthy Chun Chou region, volunteered for this perilous mission after his wife, Lichu Elen, committed suicide out of guilt for giving away a gold hairpin as alms to a monk.

• Overwhelmed by remorse and left with two crying children, Li Chuan decided to abandon everything in hopes of helping others by delivering the melons to the underworld.

Preparation for the Journey

• The emperor summoned him to the Golden Pavilion, where he was adorned with two melons on his head, given money in his sleeves, and administered poison before embarking on his journey.

Encountering Demonic Guardians

• Upon arrival at the Spirit Gate, Li Chuan was confronted by demon guardians who questioned his identity and purpose. He explained that he came on behalf of Emperor Tangun to deliver fruit to the ten kings of the underworld. The demons then changed their demeanor and escorted him respectfully.

Meeting King Yama

• In front of King Yama, Li Chuan presented the melons as gratitude for their hospitality towards Emperor Tangun. King Yama expressed satisfaction upon receiving them and inquired about Li Chuan’s background. He learned about Li Chuan's sacrifice due to his wife's death and his commitment to help others through this act.

Reuniting with Lichu Elen

• Moved by their story, King Yama called for Lichu Elen’s spirit who appeared shortly after being escorted by demon guards; thus reuniting husband and wife in the Palace of Death. They thanked the ten kings for their kindness during this reunion.

A Twist of Fate: Life After Death