The days are passing. I’m not sure how many have gone by, but I do know one thing: I am utterly and painfully BORED. This iron food and copper drink are not suitable for a king like me-I deserve all the peach trees and wine I desire-because my brilliance doesn’t fuel itself! Also, how incredibly rude is it to trap me-The Great Sage Equal to Heaven-under a mountain where I cannot carry out my authority? Tripitaka should be here to fetch me soon, so I could join his quest to find the ancient scriptures and free myself from this hellhole!
*A few days later*
I have been freed! How nice it is to be back, as I’ve forgotten the looks of my handsomeness, for I have been far too long under that mountain! Not only have I been deprived of my own handsomeness, but I was delighted to use my precious cudgel once again. I did some magic in front of Tripitaka, which I think impressed him. In fact, I skinned a tiger and made myself a rather dashing piece of clothing. I was very pleased with the awed look on Tripitaka’s face, and I think he was even a little jealous of my costume! I would have made one for him, but I think such a craft could only suit a God like myself. I dusted off my old name, Aware-of-Vacuity, and wore it proudly like a badge. It feels wonderful to be back! Hopefully we run into some trouble so I can show Tripitaka what I’m made of. After all, I am the Great Sage Equal to Heaven.
*the next day*
How is it that I, Great Sage Equal to Heaven, have been so unfairly reprimanded by Tripitaka for killing six robbers that would surely have killed us? It was quite amusing, six hairy things approaching us and demanding our belongings? Ha! Had they not known the Godly presence in which they were in? Foolish things. Out of amusement, I let them tap my head a few times with their sad, pathetic sticks before I minced them all with my trusty cudgel. They had the nerve to laugh as I demanded them to bring me their stolen goods and said I would spare their lives. But all is good, for I LOVE when folks underestimate the power of the Great Sage. Now let us get back to Tripitaka-he had the audacity to question my actions that saved him! Spare me the sanctimony! I do what must be done, even if it is often for my amusement. I don’t quite like being scolded, and I certainly DO NOT beg people to have me in their presence, so I flew on away to the clouds, where I’m sure someone will be find me to be the brave hero I am!
Five Element Mountain 