Ch. 621A Group Returns to the Eastern Lands, Sanzang Expounds the True Scriptures
Key Plot Points and Events
- Tang Sanzang and his disciples return to Chang'an after obtaining the true scriptures from the Western Heaven.
- Amitabha Buddha bestows titles upon them, but the disciples show little enthusiasm.
- King Tang Li Shimin is presented with the true scriptures, which are blank.
- Jiang Liuer explains that the Wordless True Scripture can foresee the future and deduce fortune and misfortune.
- He performs a divination, revealing four characters at a time, hinting at future events: "Sun and Moon Shine Together" (Wu Zetian), "Danger Upon Encountering Mountains" (An Lushan Rebellion), "Fiery Sun Stands in Peril" (Li Yu's reign).
Character Developments
- Little White Dragon is initially excited about his new title but later feels out of place due to the others' indifference.
- Tang Sanzang and his disciples show little reaction to their enfeoffments, suggesting they have changed or gained wisdom during their journey.
- King Tang Li Shimin is initially excited about Tang Sanzang's return but becomes confused and doubtful when he sees the blank scriptures.
Significant Themes
- The theme of change and growth is evident in the disciples' attitudes towards their new titles and the blank scriptures.
- The theme of the unknown and uncertainty is reflected in the blank scriptures and the future events they hint at.
- The theme of power and its consequences is implied in the divination results, showing the impact of historical figures on the empire.
Character Interactions
- There's a clear contrast between Little White Dragon's excitement and the others' indifference, highlighting the group's dynamics.
- Jiang Liuer's interaction with Sect Master Tongtian shows a hint of reluctance, suggesting a power dynamic or disagreement between them.
- King Tang Li Shimin's interaction with Tang Sanzang and his disciples shows his initial excitement and later confusion, reflecting his role as a ruler trying to understand and adapt to changing circumstances.