Journey to the West 038: The Pilgrims Meet the Dragon King of the Eastern Sea

The Arrival at the Eastern Sea

As Tripitaka and his disciples continued their journey, they reached the Eastern Sea, a vast and treacherous body of water that separated them from the next part of their journey. The sea was known for its unpredictable storms, powerful currents, and dangerous creatures that lurked beneath the surface.

The group knew that they needed to cross the Eastern Sea to continue their journey westward, but they were aware of the dangers that lay ahead. Wukong, ever resourceful, decided to seek the help of the Dragon King of the Eastern Sea, a powerful ruler who controlled the waters and the creatures of the sea.

The Dragon King’s Challenge

Wukong traveled to the underwater palace of the Dragon King and requested safe passage across the Eastern Sea for himself and his companions. The Dragon King, impressed by Wukong’s bravery and determination, agreed to help, but he imposed a challenge.

The Dragon King set three tasks for the pilgrims to complete, each designed to test their strength, intelligence, and loyalty. If they succeeded, the Dragon King would grant them safe passage across the sea and provide them with protection during their journey.

The Tasks of the Eastern Sea

The first task was a test of strength, in which the pilgrims had to lift and carry a massive stone that blocked the entrance to a sacred underwater temple. The stone was enchanted and weighed more than any mortal could lift. Wukong, using his magical staff and incredible strength, managed to lift the stone and clear the path.

The second task was a test of intelligence, in which the pilgrims had to navigate a labyrinthine underwater cave filled with traps and illusions. The cave was designed to confuse and disorient even the most experienced travelers. Wukong used his keen senses and knowledge of magic to guide his companions safely through the cave.

The third task was a test of loyalty, in which the pilgrims were tempted by the Dragon King’s treasures and promises of power. The Dragon King created illusions of wealth and power, hoping to see if the pilgrims would abandon their mission for personal gain. However, Tripitaka and his disciples remained steadfast in their commitment to their journey, rejecting the temptations and proving their loyalty to their cause.

The Dragon King’s Reward

After successfully completing the three tasks, the Dragon King was impressed by the pilgrims’ strength, intelligence, and loyalty. He granted them safe passage across the Eastern Sea and provided them with a magical pearl that could calm the waters and protect them from harm.

The Dragon King also offered his blessings for their continued journey, ensuring that they would be protected from the dangers of the sea. Grateful for the Dragon King’s help, the pilgrims set sail across the Eastern Sea, knowing that they had earned the favor of a powerful ally.

Crossing the Eastern Sea

With the Dragon King’s blessings and the magical pearl in their possession, the pilgrims safely crossed the Eastern Sea. The journey was not without challenges, as they encountered storms and sea monsters, but the magical pearl and the Dragon King’s protection guided them through the dangers.

The successful crossing of the Eastern Sea marked another significant achievement in their journey, and the group continued westward with renewed determination.

Continuing the Journey

After overcoming the challenges of the Eastern Sea and earning the Dragon King’s favor, the group pressed on, knowing that their journey was far from over. The experience had tested their strength, intelligence, and loyalty, but it also reinforced the importance of perseverance and commitment to their mission.

This chapter emphasizes themes of strength, intelligence, loyalty, and the importance of earning the favor of powerful allies—values that are central to Journey to the West and resonate in modern adaptations like Black Myth: Wukong, where characters must rely on their abilities and the help of others to succeed.