Ch. 701Causing Heaven and Earth's Anomaly / The Reason Behind the Investiture of the Gods Calamity
Summary
Key Plot Points and Events
- Venerable Kashyapa decides to inform Zhenyuanzi about the sentience of Wuzhuang Temple and the Ginseng Fruit Tree, aiming to improve relations with Zhenyuanzi and avoid blame from the Heavenly Court.
- Zhenyuanzi, unaware of the developments, worries about Tang Sanzang's arrival at his temple due to the celestial and terrestrial anomalies caused by the monk's journey.
- Guangchengzi reassures Zhenyuanzi, attributing the anomalies to Tang Sanzang and Sun Wukong's mischief, and suggests that even if the Ginseng Fruit Tree dies, it can be revived using the Goddess of Mercy's divine water.
Character Developments
- Venerable Kashyapa demonstrates strategic thinking and responsibility in handling the situation.
- Zhenyuanzi shows concern for his Ginseng Fruit Tree and worries about the potential consequences of Tang Sanzang's arrival.
- Guangchengzi displays diplomatic skills, reassuring Zhenyuanzi and avoiding direct answers to sensitive questions.
Significant Themes
- The power struggle between different factions (Buddhism, Daoism, and the Heavenly Court) and their influence on the Journey to the West.
- The potential consequences and importance of the Ginseng Fruit Tree, one of the Ten Great Innate Spiritual Roots.
Character Interactions
- Venerable Kashyapa and Zhenyuanzi: Venerable Kashyapa plans to inform Zhenyuanzi about the sentience of Wuzhuang Temple, aiming to improve relations and avoid blame.
- Zhenyuanzi and Guangchengzi: Zhenyuanzi shares his worries about Tang Sanzang's arrival, and Guangchengzi reassures him, also subtly hinting at the Heavenly Court's lack of involvement in the anomalies.