Chapter 739: Teaching the Monkey (Part 1)

The Dao follows nature, and my dwelling follows my heart's desire.

On Mount Lingtai Fangcun, Li Changshou lay on a rocking chair, basking in the warm sunlight. A faint smile graced his face, which had the appearance of a youthful elder. The great flourishing of the West had nothing to do with him; what did the birth of Jin Chan have to do with him? His only concern was to properly train the monkey and seize the opportunity to plant some strategic setups before the Journey to the West. Orchestrating a confrontation with the Dao Ancestor and the Heavenly Dao at this stage, regardless of his victory or defeat, or whether the calamity of the Journey to the West persisted, held little significance. If he won, there would be peace throughout the world; if he lost, he would flee to the primordial chaos.

Indeed, Sun Wukong was a born powerhouse. It was precisely Sun Wukong’s hundredth day on the mountain. During today’s scripture lecture in the main hall, the monkey was able to sit still and listen attentively, carefully grasping the meaning of the texts. His performance was remarkably outstanding.

Regarding the task of teaching the monkey, Li Changshou had not done much beyond cultivating an atmosphere of equality, freedom, and kindness within the Cave of Slanting Moon and Three Stars. Leveraging his decade-plus of experience in the mortal world, Sun Wukong quickly integrated with his senior and junior disciples. With Li Changshou’s tacit approval, Sun Wukong had already mastered introductory cultivation methods by learning Daoist techniques from his fellow disciples. In just half a month, he had traversed a path that would take ordinary cultivators ten, or even several decades, to complete. At this point, Li Changshou could no longer merely observe; he had to take over and guide him. Otherwise, he would miss the monkey’s ‘golden period’ for rapid growth.

He had numerous ways to give the monkey private lessons. Today, during the scripture lecture in the main hall, he had perfectly set the stage for this. What did he do? He simply went with the flow and gave the monkey a subtle hint.

At that time, after Li Changshou finished lecturing on the Daoist scriptures and methods, he asked the disciples if they had any unclear or difficult points. A few ‘class representatives’ – disciples who usually performed well – spoke up, asking conventional questions about the scriptures. Li Changshou patiently resolved each of their doubts. Wukong, however, could not hold back and finally asked a question.

“Master! Oh, Master, may I ask if the method I am currently cultivating leads to immortality?”

Li Changshou replied expressionlessly, “There is no single supreme method in this world; the Three Thousand Great Daos all lead to the realm of immortality. What matters are your opportunities and destiny.”

How could Wukong not realize this was merely a perfunctory reply? He quickly bowed, kneeling on his prayer mat, and said, “This disciple has no intention of disrespect, nor do I dare to speak lightly of the Great Dao. It’s just, Master, this disciple is dull-witted. I’ve been out for over a decade, yet I haven’t even glimpsed the shadow of an immortal method for longevity. If Master possesses such a method, could you perhaps give this disciple a clear indication, so that I may be at ease?”

“What?” Li Changshou slightly frowned. “From what you say, if I don't possess a method for immortality, you would defect to another sect?”

“How could this disciple dare, how could this disciple dare?” Wukong prostrated himself, kowtowing. “This disciple brought no gifts, yet Master accepted me. I am certainly not such a heartless being! It’s just, Master… I merely wish to know whether immortality is within reach or not. If it’s not, I would first return to Flower Fruit Mountain to arrange things for my monkey kin, and then return to honor Master!”

Li Changshou calmly said, “Do you know how old I am?”

Wukong was momentarily stunned. A senior disciple beside him chuckled, “Junior brother, you came from the mortal realm, so it’s understandable you don’t know our Master’s esteemed title. Master is a great power in this world, walking the Primordial Desolation, revered as an Old Ancestor, and called 'Senior' by all. Though the immortal beings you envy are few, they would have to show utmost respect upon seeing Master. With a single finger, Master could make them vanish into thin air.”

Wukong’s eyes lit up. “Oh? Really?”

“You monkey!” Li Changshou was truly exasperated but also amused by this monkey’s brazenness. He flicked his finger lightly at Wukong. Instantly, a few images flashed before Wukong’s eyes, and he felt an ancient, boundless Dao aura, one that had existed between heaven and earth for eons. The stone monkey no longer had any doubts, prostrating himself repeatedly to beg for forgiveness.

Li Changshou said, “Cultivation is not about vying for superiority; it is the path by which beings pursue the Great Dao. Wukong, when you entered my sect, you already embarked on this path. Where you can go and what you can achieve depends on your own grasp. I can teach you methods of cultivation, but I cannot help you overcome bottlenecks. I can teach you to sense the Great Dao, but I cannot place this Great Dao directly into your hands. Therefore, I will not speak to you, or to any of you, about the Dao Realm of immortality or how to achieve it. What you cultivate is the Dao; what you should pursue is your original true nature, returning to your true self, finding freedom and peace, seeking true meaning in the emptiness, and exploring your fundamental self amidst the mists. Do you understand?”

All the disciples bowed their heads in unison, assenting. Wukong also repeatedly cupped his hands.

Li Changshou continued, “Since we have reached this point, let me say a few more words. Wukong, you have been in my sect for a hundred days now. You are sincere and diligent, and I have taken note of it, accepting you as my disciple. Today, I shall impart to you methods of cultivation, and you may make your own choice.”

Sun Wukong chuckled, “Master, whatever you teach, this disciple will naturally learn.”

“Don’t be glib and clever; listen carefully.” Li Changshou gravely stated, “I have a method called the Way of Comprehending Emptiness. It involves understanding the principles of emptiness, constantly correcting one’s true heart, seeing reality within illusion, and discerning illusion within reality. Do you wish to learn it?”

Wukong asked, “Master, how long does this method take to achieve immortality?”

Li Changshou replied, “If your comprehension is deep enough, your cultivation proceeds smoothly without encountering bottlenecks, perhaps five or six millennia might lead to immortality.”

“That’s too long, too long! This disciple was hoping to extend the lifespans of those old monkeys.”

Li Changshou nodded, then added, “I have another method that can illuminate one’s mind and nature, and increase longevity. You only need to constantly meditate and contemplate, comprehending it for three or four millennia. If all goes smoothly, you can achieve immortality.”

“Still too long, far too long!” Sun Wukong’s eyes were filled with anticipation. He first repeatedly apologized, then asked, “Master, is there a method that can grant immortality in just a few decades or centuries?”

Most of the disciples on either side could barely suppress their laughter. One disciple couldn't help but say, “Even if you cultivate demonic arts, it’s impossible to achieve the Dao Fruit of immortality in just a few centuries.”

“Wukong, don’t provoke Master…”

“Hmph!” Li Changshou’s expression instantly turned cold. He sternly commanded, “Wukong, your mind is restless, and you yearn for immortality in vain. Step forward!”

Sun Wukong trembled a few times but quickly stepped forward and knelt before Li Changshou. Li Changshou stood up, casually summoned a wooden whip, and lightly yet firmly struck Sun Wukong’s back three times, admonishing him, “Let this be a warning. Go and reflect on it well!”

Then, Li Changshou’s figure quietly dissipated, leaving the disciples looking at each other. They then gathered around Sun Wukong, scolding him vigorously. They all said Sun Wukong had spoken impertinently and angered the Master. Sun Wukong, however, merely grinned impishly, showing no sign of shame. Instead, they had overlooked two crucial points.

Firstly, the monkey spoke of wanting to quickly achieve immortality to bring his monkey kin to joyful cultivation. This implies ‘when one attains the Dao, even their chickens and dogs ascend to heaven’ – a significant taboo for cultivators. One aspect is the Primordial Desolation tradition that methods should not be lightly transmitted, and the other is that such actions would introduce numerous variables and potential karmic burdens to the sect.

Secondly, when these disciples entered the sect, the Master didn't ask them what methods they wished to cultivate. Instead, he simply presented them with a cultivation method. Yet today, he even offered different choices. Tsk, what blatant favoritism.

Late at night, when all was quiet, Li Changshou rested. Within the Cave of Slanting Moon and Three Stars, a shadowy figure crept stealthily, finally darting to the window of Li Changshou's high-end cave dwelling, where it softly called out, “Master, Master.” It was indeed Sun Wukong. Seeing no movement inside, Sun Wukong carefully pushed open the window, tiptoed in, and knelt beside Li Changshou’s bed. Without a word, he first kowtowed several times.

“Master, I wonder if you meant for this disciple to come see you here in the dead of night.”

“You rascal, you’re not entirely foolish after all.” As he spoke, Li Changshou quietly activated the immortal energy barrier around the area. He sat up from his bed, gazing at the monkey kneeling before him. Sun Wukong also looked up, meeting his gaze, his eyes still as bright and clear.

Li Changshou said, “Rise. There’s no need for so much formality from now on.”

“Thank you, Master, thank you, Master,” Sun Wukong said repeatedly. He spoke quickly, with a habit of repeating short phrases, as if afraid others wouldn't hear him.

Li Changshou said, “Since you have understood, I can certainly impart to you the immortal method you desire. But Wukong, before I teach you the immortal method, I will first ask you a few questions, and then we will establish three rules, how about that?”

“This disciple will follow all of Master’s arrangements.”

“Good,” Li Changshou said with a gentle smile, stroking his beard. “First, regarding why you cultivate the Dao: besides seeking eternal life and joyful freedom, do you have any other intentions?”

Sun Wukong replied, “This disciple has no other aspirations; I simply wish to master immortal methods so that my monkey kin can also live forever.”

Li Changshou gently asked, “Are your monkey kin very important to you?”

“This disciple has neither father nor mother, and knows nothing of the seven emotions and six desires.” Sun Wukong’s expression was slightly crestfallen, but he quickly feigned his usual cheerfulness. “But those children call me their Great King, so I naturally cannot abandon them.”

Li Changshou said, “Do you know that even if you bring back immortal methods, most of your kinsmen would not even be able to cultivate to the Nascent Immortal stage?”

“Well… at least there would be a chance, rather than no chance at all.” Sun Wukong chuckled, “Master, have you ever been a Great King?”

“No, I haven’t. What’s it like?”

“Quite free and easy.”

“Hahaha!” Li Changshou chuckled, stroking his beard. “Very well, I will give you some cultivation methods for demonic beasts. However, you must not publicize this matter, and what I impart to you must never be easily transmitted to others.”

“Thank you, Master! Thank you, Master!”

“Rise,” Li Changshou said. A whisk appeared in his hand. With a gentle sweep, Sun Wukong was nudged onto a prayer mat beside the bed, settling down with a thump. Li Changshou did not hold back. He produced the cultivation manual given by the Dao Ancestor and guided Sun Wukong to quickly grasp the basics and solidify his Dao foundation.

A truly private lesson. This was, in fact, one of the few opportunities for Li Changshou to have close, direct contact with the stone monkey. Li Changshou carefully observed the monkey’s aptitude, and soon felt a bit sour. This monkey’s aptitude was so extraordinary it could make an ordinary Golden Immortal’s Dao heart collapse! However, cultivation ultimately required steady progress, step by step. Giving the monkey private lessons like this would become the norm subsequently.

The three rules established were also quite interesting. These were the rules Li Changshou set for Sun Wukong to follow: do not harm fellow disciples, do not flaunt your divine abilities or magical powers, and do not tell anyone about your own cultivation. Sun Wukong naturally understood that the cultivation method imparted to him was quite different from the methods his senior and junior disciples practiced.

And Sun Wukong posed a profound question: “Master, why not impart this wondrous method to my senior and junior disciples as well?”

Li Changshou hummed lightly a few times, then gravely said, “Do you perhaps feel that this is somewhat unfair?”

“This disciple feels… it is indeed a bit unfair.”

“But you are the beneficiary of this unfairness.”

“It’s still a bit unfair,” Sun Wukong said puzzled. “Master, this cultivation method of yours couldn’t possibly have been tailor-made specifically for me.”

Li Changshou chuckled, “This method came into being before your birth. It cannot be cultivated by those without a formidable physical body, nor by those without an abundant primordial spirit. Within this place, you are the only one capable of crossing such a threshold.”

Only then did Sun Wukong accept this explanation. On the very first night of his private lessons, Sun Wukong formally embarked on his cultivation journey. From that night onward, his cultivation surged rapidly, layer by layer. The ultimate cultivation accelerator? Just look at Hongjun, busy at Zixiao Palace!

As Li Changshou had instructed, Sun Wukong did not boast about this to anyone. This made Sun Wukong quite uncomfortable, having to suppress his excitement. But for the sake of the Dao Fruit of immortality, Sun Wukong had to endure and suppress it. Every few days, he would secretly seek out Li Changshou under the cover of night. His cultivation realm rapidly advanced, and there was no risk of any mishaps.

In this manner, time flowed unnoticed on the mountain, and the river of years passed without incident. In the blink of an eye, more than sixty years had passed. During these sixty years, Li Changshou took time to travel once, finding places to plant dozens of strategic setups, thus ‘not forgetting his main business.’ Although the Heavenly Dao observed this place incessantly, its focus was on the monkey, not on him, Patriarch Subhuti.

Between heaven and earth, winds ceased, clouds stilled, and all was calm and peaceful. No major events occurred. The mortal realm in Nanzhou remained stable. The Great Shang Dynasty of centuries past was rarely mentioned, and when it was, it was mostly with criticism. For instance, Di Xin was now reviled in the mortal world as a great tyrannical ruler, even given the pejorative posthumous title of 'Zhou,' with numerous crimes attributed to this King Zhou. However, the true situation for Di Xin was that he was a leisurely immortal deity in the Heavenly Court, living a carefree and joyful life with Daji. Though he didn’t win, it wasn’t much of a loss either.

The Heavenly Court also developed steadily. Its Heavenly Soldiers and Generals did not expand infinitely but maintained a stable level, as Li Changshou had advised. Batches of elite soldiers and powerful generals were always better than a multitude of incompetent ones. The Three Thousand Worlds remained largely stable. The Lin Tian Hall and the Immortal Alliance became the Heavenly Court’s left and right arms, assisting it in governing the Three Thousand Worlds. However, the reputation of these two forces among cultivators had gradually become ‘tainted.’ This was, in fact, unavoidable. Order inevitably restricts individual freedom, and excessive freedom, in turn, can shatter order. To the beings of the Three Thousand Worlds, the Lin Tian Hall and the Immortal Alliance represented order. Cultivators, feeling uncomfortable under their influence, naturally did not show them favor.

Returning to Mount Lingtai. In just sixty years, the monkey’s cultivation reached the late True Immortal realm. Of course, the monkey at this time didn’t know what 'true spirit imperishability' meant; he simply followed Li Changshou’s guidance, progressing through one realm after another. The latent spiritual energy within him had been awakened, propelling him steadily towards the realm of immortality. Beyond just his Dao realm, in these sixty years, the monkey had learned various combat techniques and divine abilities. The Seventy-Two Transformations were officially mastered, and cloud-somersaulting was effortlessly within his grasp.

Such rapid progress by the monkey inevitably caused a pang of envy among the disciples on Mount Fangcun. For instance, today, before Li Changshou was about to begin his lecture, a male disciple stepped forward to report that Junior Brother Wukong had been in the sect for a long time but still retained his monkey appearance, refusing to transform into a congenital Dao body. Li Changshou merely smiled and shook his head, watching Sun Wukong playing with several disciples in the mountains. He slowly said, “No matter. He can choose his own path and Great Dao, and how he wishes to live. Disciple, your heart is no longer at peace.” The disciple showed shame on his face, bowed, and hastily withdrew.

Li Changshou appeared thoughtful, then calculated with his fingers, and soon let out a soft chuckle. To play it safe, he would arrange for this male disciple to go on a journey tomorrow, to prevent any ‘teaching accidents’ from occurring. He was serious about teaching the monkey. He had finally figured out how to handle the last major plot challenge…