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When Sun Wukong failed to defeat the Green Bull Demon, he sought aid from Tathagata Buddha. Though aware of the demon’s origins, Tathagata withheld this knowledge, fearing Wukong’s indiscretion. He dispatched Arhats instead of intervening personally — even when they too proved ineffective.
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Having escaped the perils of thorns and entangled tree spirits, the pilgrims continued westward. Soon winter came to an end, and spring returned, spreading its presence everywhere. The master and his disciples preferred the languid fragrance of flowers and the soft comfort of meadows.