The Dragon King

Journey to the West 6 The Dragon King

What’s wrong with our swords and spears?” asked the gibbon. “ They’re fine for normal monkeys and apes, ” said Wukong. “ But I am very powerful. I need a much heavier weapon. ” The gibbon thought for a minute. “ A dragon king lives at the bottom of the Eastern Sea, ” he said. “ Maybe he has a weapon you can use. ”

“ That’s a good idea, ” said Wukong. “ I’ll be back soon! ” He said a quick spell so he could breathe underwater. Then he dived into the stream. He swam to the ocean and went deeper and deeper. Soon he arrived at a large palace. The Dragon King and the Dragon Queen were sitting at a table, having tea. The Dragon King looked over when Wukong walked in.

“ Who are you?” asked the Dragon King. “ I’m king of the Fruit and Flower Mountain, ” said Wukong. “ My name is Sun Wukong. ” “ It’s nice to meet you, ” said the queen. “ Would you like some tea?” “ No, thank you, ” said Wukong. “ I need a heavy weapon because I’m as strong as a god. I want one of yours. ”

“ Well, ” said the Dragon King, “ I suppose I could find a weapon for you. ” The Dragon King looked at a turtle soldier. “ Find a heavy weapon for Sun Wukong. ” The turtle went out of the room. He soon came back, slowly dragging a huge sword. He dropped the sword and then fell down, out of breath.

Wukong picked up the sword with no trouble at all. Swish! Swoosh! He waved the sword through the air, pretending to fight. “ This sword is too light, ” said Wukong. “ Find me a better weapon! ” “ This monkey is rude, ” the Dragon Queen whispered to her husband. “ You’re right, dear, ” the Dragon King whispered back. “ Let’s find him something quickly so he’ll leave. ”