VIAJE AL OESTE Las Aventuras del Rey Mono cap 10

Capítulo 10: El Anciano Rey Dragón

Introducción a los Personajes

• Se presenta al Primer Ministro Wey, quien envía una carta a un funcionario de la muerte.

• Mención de dos personajes principales: un pescador llamado Changzhou y un leñador conocido como Litín, que viven cerca del río Chin en las afueras de Changan.

Encuentro en la Taberna

• Ambos personajes, a pesar de sus humildes oficios, son intelectuales autodidactas que dominan la lectura.

• Después de vender sus productos, se encuentran en una taberna y beben juntos hasta embriagarse.

Reflexiones sobre la Vida

• Changzhou expresa su opinión sobre la búsqueda de fama y fortuna, sugiriendo que es un esfuerzo vano que puede llevar a la perdición.

• Argumenta que su vida tranquila en las montañas es preferible a los riesgos asociados con el deseo de reconocimiento o riqueza.

Debate sobre Naturaleza y Placer

• Litín responde afirmando que no hay comparación entre sus puras aguas y las altas montañas azules de Changzhou.

• Cita un poema Tzu para ilustrar cómo ha encontrado paz y satisfacción en su vida simple junto al agua.

La Belleza del Entorno Natural

• Changzhou continúa defendiendo su perspectiva sobre la serenidad del agua frente a las montañas.

• Litín también cita poesía para resaltar la belleza efímera de las estaciones y cómo cada una tiene su propio encanto.

Conclusión del Debate

• A pesar de sus diferencias, ambos hombres valoran profundamente lo que les ofrece su entorno natural.

Reflections on Life by the Water and in the Mountains

The Fisherman’s Perspective

• The fisherman describes a carefree life, collecting dry wood and enjoying personal freedom, where he sells what he desires at prices determined solely by his will.

• He contrasts his life with that of his brother, emphasizing that living by the water is more pleasurable than in the mountains, supported by a poem that celebrates nature's beauty.

• The tranquility of the river is highlighted as it reflects the sky; fishing brings joy and satisfaction, showcasing a deep connection to nature.

The Woodcutter’s Counterargument

• The woodcutter argues that his mountain life offers greater fulfillment despite its challenges; he cites another poem to illustrate this point.

• He acknowledges some merits of mountain living but insists it provides unique joys not found near water, such as solitude and self-sufficiency.

• His daily routine includes cutting wood for warmth in winter while enjoying freedom from societal pressures.

Contentment in Simplicity

• The woodcutter expresses pride in his simple lifestyle, which allows him to return home to family after work without concern for material wealth.

• He finds happiness in small pleasures like sharing meals with loved ones and resting comfortably at home after a day’s labor.

Leisure Time Comparisons

• The fisherman claims that leisure moments are more abundant for him compared to the woodcutter's life filled with labor.

• He shares a poem reflecting on peaceful moments spent teaching his son skills related to fishing while enjoying calm waters.

A Call for Collaborative Poetry

• Both characters recognize their discussions have been framed through poetry; they consider creating longer collaborative poems to explore their contrasting lifestyles further.

The Life of a Fisherman

Reflections on Temptation and Scandal

• The speaker expresses a steadfast refusal to succumb to malicious gossip, emphasizing a life free from scandal.

• He describes fishing alone in serene mountain streams, finding companionship only in the wind during successful catches.

Family and Simplicity

• The speaker shares his simple joys, trading fish for wine with his wife and enjoying meals prepared by her.

• He highlights the importance of family, mentioning how they work together to mend fishing nets and support each other.

Contentment in Nature

• A deep appreciation for nature is evident as he finds joy in the tranquility of moonlit nights and the company of birds.

• His heart is not burdened by desires for wealth or fame; instead, he cherishes peace of mind and sustenance from his labor.

Seasonal Changes and Daily Life

• The speaker notes the cyclical nature of life through seasons, expressing contentment with daily routines like fishing and woodcutting.

• He enjoys seasonal delicacies prepared by his wife while remaining unaffected by extreme weather conditions.

Wisdom vs. Folly

• Reflecting on wisdom, he contrasts it with foolishness, suggesting that true pleasure lies in simple tasks like chopping wood or fishing.

• The conversation shifts towards respect for nature's elements as both men recite songs celebrating their connection to land and sea.

Farewell Between Friends

• As their paths diverge, there’s a respectful farewell filled with concern for each other's safety amidst natural dangers like tigers.

Disagreement on Safety Perceptions

• Li Ting challenges Changzhou's confidence about safety while fishing, arguing that danger lurks everywhere.

Superstitions and Predictions

• Changzhou defends his belief in omens from an oracle who predicts favorable outcomes based on offerings made by him.

Trusting Intuition

A Mysterious Prophecy and the Dragon King

The Encounter and Revelation

• A conversation occurs between a fisherman and a woodcutter, discussing a fortune teller in Changan who never fails. This information is overheard by Jacques, who rushes to inform the Dragon King.

• Jacques expresses alarm about the potential danger posed by the fortune teller, revealing that he overheard discussions of how the fisherman consults this seer for guidance on fishing.

• The fisherman’s reliance on the fortune teller raises concerns for aquatic beings, as it could lead to their demise if they continue to be caught without caution.

The Dragon King's Fury

• Enraged by this revelation, the Dragon King contemplates killing the fortune teller but is persuaded by his family and advisors to reconsider his approach.

• His advisors suggest that instead of violence, he should disguise himself as an intellectual to investigate further before taking any action against the supposed threat.

Transformation and Disguise

• After some contemplation, the Dragon King agrees with his advisors' plan. He transforms into a learned scholar dressed in white robes, showcasing an imposing presence.

• As he walks towards Changan's West Gate Street, he exudes confidence and wisdom while praising Confucius and virtuous leaders from history.

The Fortune Teller's Gathering

• Upon arrival at Changan, he finds a crowd gathered around a man—revealed to be the fortune teller—who speaks of fortunes based on zodiac signs.

• The fortune teller predicts good luck for those born under certain signs while warning others of impending misfortunes based on astrological influences.

Observations Inside the Tent

• The Dragon King enters the tent where intricate calligraphy adorns the walls. He observes various divination tools indicating that this man possesses great knowledge in astrology and fate.

• Notably skilled in multiple divination techniques, including crystal balls and classic texts like Kuo Tzu; he demonstrates profound understanding of cosmic laws governing life events.

• The fortune teller appears omniscient regarding past events and future occurrences; his abilities provoke concern among divine entities due to their extent.

Introduction to Master Johansson Chan

• Identified as Johansson Chan—the uncle of an official astronomer—he is well-regarded throughout the kingdom for his expertise in various arts related to divination.

• After formal greetings with Johansson Chan, who invites him to sit down for tea, curiosity arises when asked about upcoming weather conditions.

The King's Bet with the Diviner

The King's Challenge

• The king insists on a specific prediction regarding rain, stating that clouds will gather at the hour of the dragon and rain will fall in precise amounts.

• The king offers 50 bags of gold to the diviner if his predictions are accurate but threatens severe consequences if he is wrong.

The Diviner's Predictions

• Upon returning to his mansion, the king discusses his encounter with ministers, confirming that he believes the diviner is a fraud despite his claims.

• The diviner predicts not only when it will rain but also how much, specifying 48 drops per square meter.

Doubts and Revelations

• Ministers mockingly question how someone could predict such details accurately, suggesting that it solely depends on the king's control over weather.

• A celestial messenger arrives with an order from the emperor for rain to be prepared exactly as predicted by the diviner.

Consequences of Accuracy

• The king realizes that every detail in the emperor's order matches what the diviner had foretold, leading him to feel defeated and astonished by this knowledge.

• He expresses disbelief at having been outsmarted by someone who understands natural laws so well.

Plans for Retribution

• Ministers propose a plan to discredit the diviner: if rain does not occur precisely as predicted, they can dismiss him easily.

• The king agrees and prepares to manipulate conditions so that only 40 drops fall instead of 48.

Confrontation with the Diviner

• After orchestrating events to ensure less rainfall than promised, the king angrily confronts the diviner about his failed predictions.

• Despite accusations of being a fraud, the diviner remains calm and unafraid, asserting he has done nothing wrong.

The Dragon King's Plea for Mercy

The Encounter with the Master

• The speaker recognizes the Dragon King, not as a mere literary figure but as a powerful entity who has defied cosmic laws by altering time and weather.

• The Dragon King experiences panic upon being confronted about his actions, feeling vulnerable and pleading for mercy from the master.

Acknowledgment of Guilt

• The Dragon King admits to his wrongdoing, realizing that what he thought was harmless fun is actually a grave crime against celestial order.

• Johansson Chang informs the Dragon King that he must face execution unless he seeks clemency from Emperor Tan.

Urgency in Seeking Clemency

• In desperation, the Dragon King rushes to plead for mercy from Emperor Tan, knowing he must act quickly due to impending judgment.

• As night falls, imagery of nature sets a somber tone while the Dragon King prepares for his crucial meeting with the emperor.

Transformation and Humility

• The Dragon King transforms into human form to approach Emperor Tan respectfully, demonstrating humility by begging for his life.

• He reveals his identity as a dragon and explains that disobedience has led him to seek forgiveness from the emperor.

Assurance of Safety

• Emperor Tan reassures the Dragon King that he will not be harmed and encourages him to leave without worry.

• Grateful for this reprieve, the Dragon King departs swiftly from the palace, relieved yet contemplative about his fate.

Morning Ritual at Court

• After waking up from a dream about dragons and justice, Emperor Tan prepares to meet with ministers amidst fragrant incense filling the air.

• Officials engage in ceremonial rituals while vibrant colors adorn their attire, setting an elaborate scene before Emperor Tan's arrival.

Grand Entrance of Emperor Tan

• As courtiers chant praises during his entrance, an atmosphere of reverence envelops the court with floral scents wafting through.

• The emperor arrives in an opulent procession surrounded by nobles and generals dressed in red, symbolizing power and authority.

Ministerial Assembly

Dreams and Decisions: The Emperor's Dilemma

The Emperor's Strange Dream

• The emperor recounts a peculiar dream where he meets a man claiming to be the Dragon King of the River Chin, who reveals he has disobeyed heavenly orders and faces execution by Judge Weizen.

• The emperor expresses surprise at the absence of his summoned subject, Waiting, suggesting that perhaps dreams hold more truth than expected. He is advised to keep Waiting close to fulfill his promise.

Preparations for Execution

• Delighted by the prospect of saving the Dragon King's life, the emperor summons Judge Wey, who had been studying celestial movements when he received an order from the Jade Emperor to execute the old dragon.

• Judge Wey prepares meticulously for this significant task, bathing and fasting while sharpening his magical sword in spiritual purification.

Audience with the Emperor

• Despite not attending court that day, Judge Wey is summoned urgently by an official. He humbly presents himself before the emperor and seeks forgiveness for his absence.

• The emperor forgives him due to his esteemed service and invites him into private discussions about state matters after other ministers depart.

Chess as a Metaphor for Strategy

• During their discussion, the emperor requests a chessboard to play against Judge Wey, emphasizing strategy in governance akin to chess tactics.

• As they play cautiously following classical chess principles, they discuss how chess develops discipline and prudence in decision-making.

Strategic Insights from Chess

• Key strategies are highlighted: protecting one's strong pieces while maintaining flexibility; prioritizing advantageous positions over individual piece safety.

• Emphasis on survival during numerical disadvantage versus capitalizing on advantageous situations illustrates broader themes of conflict management.

Reflections on Victory and Defeat

• Acknowledgment that even with initial advantages in chess (and metaphorically in life), one can still face defeat if complacent or unstrategic.

• Understanding opponent behavior—such as regrouping forces or abandoning territory—can signal intentions crucial for strategic planning.

Conclusion of Their Game

• Both players remain engaged until 1:45 PM without significant advantage gained; however, fatigue sets in as Judge Wey unexpectedly falls asleep during their match.

The Execution of the Dragon

The Emperor's Regret

• The protagonist expresses deep remorse, feeling unworthy and asking for forgiveness after a perceived grave insult to the emperor during a game.

• As they prepare to continue their game, chaos erupts outside with ministers arriving in distress, presenting a severed dragon head as evidence of an unusual event.

• The ministers explain that they found the dragon's head falling from the sky while conversing, prompting questions about its significance.

The Revelation of the Dragon's Fate

• The emperor learns that the dragon was executed by his servant while he slept, leading to disbelief over how such an act could occur without his awareness.

• The servant explains that his spirit executed the dragon due to disobedience to heavenly orders while his physical body remained unaware at the chessboard.

Consequences and Reflection

• The execution is described in detail; despite being bound and trembling, the dragon awaited its fate as decreed by celestial authority.

• The emperor feels both satisfaction for having capable ministers and sorrow for failing to save the dragon from its tragic end.

Nightmares and Guilt

• That night, haunted by visions of the executed dragon pleading for mercy, the emperor grapples with feelings of defeat and guilt over his inability to intervene.

• He experiences intense emotional turmoil as he dreams of confronting consequences related to his decisions regarding the dragon’s life.

Divine Intervention

• A Taoist priestess appears amidst turmoil, using her powers to drive away malevolent spirits associated with the deceased dragon.

• This priestess is revealed as Bodhisattva Guanyin sent on a mission from Buddha; she intervenes just in time to protect the emperor from further distress caused by vengeful spirits.

Aftermath and Unrest

• Following these events, panic ensues within the palace as officials are disturbed by reports of ghosts and spirits haunting them throughout the night.

The Emperor's Strange Illness and the Haunting Spirits

The Doctor's Diagnosis

• The doctor expresses concern over the emperor's health, noting that his pulse is extremely irregular, alternating between weak and erratic.

• He predicts that the emperor will die within a week, alarming the ministers who are present.

• The emperor shares his unusual experience of being attacked by ghosts, which he describes as strange and terrifying.

Ministers' Reactions and Suggestions

• One minister suggests keeping watch outside the emperor’s door to protect him from these ghostly disturbances.

• Two imperial officials prepare for their vigil, donning impressive armor that symbolizes their readiness to defend the emperor.

Night Watch and Its Effects

• The guards maintain a vigilant watch but do not encounter any supernatural occurrences during their night shifts.

• After several peaceful nights, the emperor feels grateful for their protection and allows them to rest while he sleeps soundly.

Artistic Solutions to Fear

• To alleviate his subjects' sleeplessness, the emperor orders portraits of the guards in full battle attire to be painted and placed at his door.

• Following this measure, there are no incidents reported for several nights until strange noises return on the fourth night.

Escalating Tensions and Final Preparations

• The emperor informs his ministers about disturbing sounds coming from behind the palace that threaten his sanity.

• A suggestion is made to station another guard at the back entrance; this plan is accepted by the emperor.

• Way Qian takes up position at the back door dressed heroically with a sword known for slaying dragons but still faces increasing pressure due to ongoing disturbances.

The Critical Moment of Tyson's Life

The Encounter with Way

• Tyson, feeling resigned to his fate, prepares for the end of his life after a critical illness. He expresses that he has reached a point of no return.

• Way offers encouragement and presents a letter intended for Schatz Wait, one of the judges in the underworld, suggesting it could help Tyson regain his life.

• Way explains Schatz Wait's background as a close friend of Tyson’s deceased father and highlights his current role as a judge responsible for the records of the living and dead.

• Upon hearing about the potential assistance from Schatz Wait, Tyson feels hopeful and carefully stores the letter before passing away.

Mourning and Ceremonies

• Following Tyson's death, there is widespread mourning among royals and officials who don black attire to honor him. The imperial coffin is placed in the Hall of the White Tiger.