Wind and Fog

Journey to the West 96 Wind and Fog

I hope we reach the Western Paradise soon, ” said the Tang Monk. “ This journey has been very dangerous. ” Bajie nodded. “ Those three demons tried to pickle me! ” Everybody laughed, even Bajie. “ Wukong, what happened to those demons?” asked Wujing. “ Buddha took them away, ” said Wukong. “ I’m sure they were punished. ”

“ Thank you again for saving us, ” said the Tang Monk. Wukong waved his hand. “ It was nothing, Master. Buddha did most of the work. ” The group felt a strong wind blow down from the mountains up ahead. A dark fog filled the sky and then disappeared. The Tang Monk was nervous. “ Wh-what caused that wind and fog?”

“ Relax, Master, ” said Wukong. “ I’m sure it was something harmless—maybe some small demons. I’ll go check. ” The monkey walked up the road and around a bend. He heard laughter and looked up. High above the road, a fat monster was sitting on the edge of a cliff. Several little demons sat next to the monster. Wukong flew up to get a closer look.

The fat monster appeared to be concentrating. Suddenly . . . “ Braap! ” A burp as loud as thunder blew down the mountain. The demons giggled and laughed. “ That was your best burp yet! ” cried one demon. The monster patted his belly. “ Yes, I’m proud of that one. ” “ Show us the fog again! ” said another demon.

“ Coming right up! ” said the monster. He covered one nostril with a finger, closed his eyes, and blew hard. Dark fog poured out of his other nostril. The demons clapped and cheered. The monster smiled and then . . . “ Braap! ” More wind blew down the mountain. There was a roar of laughter. One demon nearly fell off the cliff.