After a long and eventful expedition, Xuán Zàng and his three omnipotent followers – Monkey, the simian god, Friar Sand, the incarnation of a river spirit, and Pigsie, a creature half man, half pig – reached their destination. Two of the Buddha’s most dutiful disciples, tall, thin Ananda and short, stout Kasyapa, were guarding the sacred scrolls. ‘Oh, Devout Ones,’ cried Xuán Zàng, ‘we have arrived from afar, full of spiritual hunger for the key to Enlightenment. Please grant us the knowledge of the holy scrolls.’ Xuán Zàng waited in vain. Ananda and Kasyapa stood motionless in front of him. ‘Oh, Sage Ones,’ cried Monkey with annoyance in his voice, ‘we have suffered many privations to come here. Please reward us with the Light of Knowledge.’ Friar Sand stretched himself in a huff, preparing for battle. Pigsie, impatient as ever, made a move to reach the trunks behind the two disciples. Ananda stood firm, obstructed him and broke his silence. ‘The Buddha’s Knowledge does not come cheap, oh honourable pilgrims.’ Pigsie was astounded.
