King Gesar (about 1038-1119 AD) was a legendary Tibetan hero who was born in Dege County, Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. Later generations called him King Gesar of Ling. According to legend, King Gesar is also the incarnation of the Guru Rinpoche and his wisdom, compassion and power. The Legend from ling King Gesar (about 1038-1119 AD) was a legendary Tibetan hero who was born in Dege County, Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. Later generations called him King Gesar of Ling. According to legend, King Gesar is also the incarnation of the Guru Rinpoche and his wisdom, compassion and power. K i n g G e s a r of Tibet Chapter 12: Danma’s Divine Arrow Kills Little Lusa, and Nangla Charges Alone into the Great Ling Camp Chapter 11: Jue Ru Transforms into a Beautiful Woman Chapter 13: A Palace is Built to Repay the Merchant's Kindness, and the People of Ling Relocate to Mayu to Escape Natural Disasters Chapter 14: Chao Tong’s Fury and Dansa’s Silent Resolve Chapter 15: Chao Tong Hosts a Grand Banquet to Plan the Horse Race, The People of Ling Make Good Wishes to Welcome Joru Chapter 16: The Pearl Maiden Shows Gratitude and Searches for Joru and His Mother, The Divine Son Transforms to Test the Maiden's Hear Chapter 17: With Divine Help, the Thousand-Mile Steed Is Captured; Zumu's Witty Praise for Jang Gapeibu Chapter 18: Testing Zumu's Affection with an Illusion, Confirming True Intentions to Grant the Saddle and Bridle for the Divine Horse Chapter 19: Chao Tong Schemes to Seize the Divine Steed, Dunba Sacrifices the Precious Saddle for the Greater Good Chapter 20: The Horse Racing Festival: Heroes Display Their Might, Seven Women Harbor Different Intentions Chapter 21: Defeating Three Demons, the Divine Heir Rides Across the Racetrack; Testing the Crowd, Jue Ru Probes Loyalty and Betrayal Chapter 22: Winning the Horse Racing Championship and Ascending the Golden Throne, The Lion King Grants Titles to Benefit the Mountain Region. Chapter 23: The Heavenly Mother Commands the King to Practice the True Dharma; The Black Demon Causes Havoc, and Mesa is Captured. Chapter 24: To Save Mesa, the Lion King Vows to Defeat the Demon; Wishing to Keep Her Husband, Zhumu Offers Medicinal Wine. CHAPTER 25: CAMPAIGNING IN THE NORTHERN LANDS, GESAR MANAGES STATE AFFAIRS; BIDDING FAREWELL, QUEEN ZHUMU PLEADS WITH HER LOVED ONE TO STAY. CHAPTER 26: DEVOTED ZHUMU RIDES TO PURSUE THE GREAT KING; THE AFFECTIONATE DIVINE SON AIDS HIS WIFE IN RETURNING TO HER HOMETOWN. CHAPTER 27: TUIBA GAWA CAPTURES THE DEMON KINGDOM'S BEAUTY; ADANAM TEACHES THE SECRET METHOD TO SUBDUE DEMONS. CHAPTER 28: USING STRATEGY AND A TOKEN TO PASS THREE TRIALS; WIELDING DIVINE POWER TO DEFEAT DEMONS AND SUBDUE QINEN. CHAPTER 29: THE CELESTIAL CRANE CARRIES OUT ITS MISSION TO CONFUSE THE SOUL-BINDING BIRD; MESA SPEAKS OF HER RESENTMENT AND POURS OUT HER INNER SUFFERING CHAPTER 30: SETTING A TRAP TO OBTAIN THE DEMON KING'S FATAL SECRET; DEFEATING LÜZAN TO SAVE THE DEMON KINGDOM FROM SUFFERING. CHAPTER 31: THE WHITE TENT KING SENDS FOUR BIRDS TO SEARCH FOR THE BEAUTY; THE BLACK CROW SPREADS SLANDER AND BRINGS CALAMITY CHAPTER 32: THE HEROES OF LING DISCUSS THE CALAMITY BIRD WITH PASSION; THE VETERAN DANMA BRAVELY SCOUTS ENEMY MOVEMENTS CHAPTER 33: DETAILED ACCOUNT OF REPORTING THE CALAMITY BIRD AND RECEIVING REWARDS; DIVINING OMENS OF FORTUNE AND MISFORTUNE, THE DIVINER WOMAN IS PUNISHED CHAPTER 34: Danma Uses Strategy to Cleverly Seize the Hor Horses, Xinba Goes to Battle and Loses His Skull Cap CHAPTER 35: Jiacha Rides Alone to Brave the Hor Camp, Zhumu's Sharp Words Secretly Mock the Darong King CHAPTER 36: Using Illusions, Chao Tong Bravely Enters the Enemy Camp Three Times; Cowards, Fearing Death, Attempt to Rebel CHAPTER 37: Setting a Deadly Trap, They Deceive Yuda into Marching to War; Haunted by a Nightmare, Dasa's Desperate Pleas Go Unheeded CHAPTER 38: Falling for a Treacherous Plot, Yuda Perishes on the Battlefield; Losing His Young Son, the Chief Steward Endures His Grief CHAPTER 39: The Hor Army Invades Ling Gabu; Two Armies Face Off in a Great Battle on the Yellow River Plains CHAPTER 40: Praying to the Spirits, the Ling Army Receives Divine Protection; Bravely Defeating the Hor Army, Jiacha Achieves Military Glory Table of content Description Table of content Description Chapter 1 Click for here for ch1 The People of the Snowy Land Suffer Great Hardships, Praying for the Gods to Descend and Subdue the Demons Chapter 2 Click for here for ch2 Avalokiteshvara Delivers the Teachings on Ox-Tail Continent:The Rakshasa King and the Divine Son Protected by the Heaven of Ultimate Form Chapter 3 Click for here for ch3 The Divine Child Fears Difficulty and Refuses to Descend. The Heavenly Deities Urge Him with Nine Divinations Chapter 4 Click for here for ch4 Seeking the Divination Deity to Resolve Doubts, Eliminate Disasters, Cure Plagues, and Receive the Dragon Maiden as a Reward Chapter 5 Click for here for ch5 A Good Omen Appears, Chief Seeks Dream Interpretation, and the Great Sage Proclaims Prophecy Chapter 6 Click for here for ch6 Avenging a Brother – Gyatsa Leads a Campaign Against the Guo Tribe, and Senlen Wins the Dragon King's Daughter Chapter 7 Click for here for ch7 Jealousy Arises – Jiafei Bullies the Dragon Maiden, Who Is Banished to the Wilderness Chapter 8 Coming soon

The horse race was in full swing. Chao Tong, riding the Yuja horse, was leading the pack, while Joru, on his steed Jiangga Peibu, was trailing behind. Jiacha, whipping his horse forward, occasionally turned back to look at Joru, but Joru paid him no attention. Instead, Joru appeared to be enjoying the beautiful scenery, riding leisurely as if he were on a casual stroll. K i n g G e s a r of Tibet The Legend from ling King Gesar (about 1038-1119 AD) was a legendary Tibetan hero who was born in Dege County, Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. Later generations called him King Gesar of Ling. According to legend, King Gesar is also the incarnation of the Guru Rinpoche and his wisdom, compassion and power. Chapter 21: Defeating Three Demons, the Divine Heir Rides Across the Racetrack; Testing the Crowd, Jue Ru Probes Loyalty and Betrayal The Race, The Monsters, and Joru’s Conflicts The horse race was in full swing. Chao Tong, riding the Yuja horse, was leading the pack, while Joru, on his steed Jiangga Peibu, was trailing behind. Jiacha, whipping his horse forward, occasionally turned back to look at Joru, but Joru paid him no attention. Instead, Joru appeared to be enjoying the beautiful scenery, riding leisurely as if he were on a casual stroll. The grand horse race was unprecedented in scale. As the racers reached the halfway point, Joru instinctively nudged his horse’s side with his legs, and his steed sped up slightly. The other competitors whipped their horses harder, pushing forward with all their might. Chao Tong and his Yuja horse remained firmly in the lead. At that moment, a small cloud resembling a sheep appeared in the sky. Strangely, it began to grow larger and larger, darkening the heavens. A clap of thunder split the sky, and it seemed as though hail was about to fall. Was this sudden change due to the unpredictable mountain weather, or were the gods displeased with the horse race? Neither. It was the work of three demonic spirits from Ayudi Mountain: Tiger-Head, Leopard-Head, and Bear-Head. The Tiger-Head demon grumbled, “Ling Gabu is holding a horse race today. All the human legs bend backward, their knees stick out forward, and their horses kick up dust and manure everywhere. They’re polluting our mountain!” “That’s right! They’re not only shaking the snowy mountains but also ruining the grasslands!” added Bear-Head, speaking clumsily but clearly agitated. Leopard-Head, always sharp-tongued, chimed in, “I don’t understand how the neighboring mountain gods tolerate these humans messing around here. If we don’t teach them a lesson today, anyone will think they can trample our sacred grounds! The merchants, horsemen, nobles, and even poor shepherds will stop offering us tributes. This is unacceptable!” The three demons agreed to retaliate. They summoned their dark army, covered the sky with clouds, and sent thunderbolts to announce their fury. Just as they were about to unleash a hailstorm, they suddenly felt uneasy. Joru had already noticed their actions. How could Joru, the son of the gods, allow demons to disrupt the grand horse race? If the three demons were not subdued, the people of Ling Gabu would suffer endlessly. In an instant, Joru threw his divine lasso into the air, capturing the three demons and binding them in front of his horse. Realizing they were in the presence of a divine child, the demons immediately lost their power. They knelt down repeatedly, begging for mercy and pledging their loyalty to Joru. Joru commanded, “Dismiss the clouds immediately, return to your mountain, and await my orders. From now on, you must not harm humans again. If you disobey, I will not forgive you.” The clouds vanished instantly, and the sunlight became brighter and more radiant than before. A celestial maiden from the Mamei region appeared and presented Joru with three treasures: a crystal vial filled with divine nectar, a key to unlock the treasures of the ancient Hot Mountain, and an auspicious silk scarf adorned with eight symbols. Joru accepted the treasures and resumed the race. Joru’s Encounter with Gulu and Others In an instant, Joru caught up with the hunchback Gulu, who was trailing at the back of the race. Joru, seeing Gulu struggling with his hunched posture, found it amusing and decided to tease him: "I am Joru, standing tall and proud, You are Gulu, bent and bowed. Why don’t we team up for this race, Together we’ll run at the same pace. If we win, we’ll split the prize in two, If we lose, we’ll share the debt too." Hearing this, Gulu became agitated. He looked at Joru, with his poor and ragged appearance, and scoffed at the idea of Joru winning anything. “Team up with him?” Gulu thought. “What he really means is that he wants me to share his debt!” With a stern face, Gulu said, “Don’t even think about it! Gulu isn’t foolish enough to pay your debts for no reason. We’ve already lost hope of winning anything. If the gods help me win, I won’t share it with you. And if you win, I wouldn’t even want your prize, let alone repay your debts! You and I are as incompatible as snow and fire. There’s no way we can work together.” Joru, still smiling, replied, “Gulu, I only mean well. I see you struggling with your hunchback, and I genuinely want to help you. Are you sure you won’t regret your words?” But Gulu laughed mockingly and said, “Help me? Regret? Hah! You don’t know who I am, do you? I, Gulu, am the sacred camel of Ling Gabu. Without me, even the gods would decline. I am the prosperous camel of the land, bringing wealth to all. And I am the lucky camel of Ling Gabu—without me, blessings would wither away. Haven’t you heard the song sung by the people of Ling Gabu?” "The crescent moon bends beautifully, Decorating the azure sky so gracefully. The bountiful grain bends with pride, Filling the barns, feeding far and wide. The rainbow bends across the vast blue, Linking heaven and earth with its brilliant hue. A man bends his back to show his might, A woman bends hers to gain insight. Weapons bend for fierce combat, Roads bend for racers like that." Gulu continued smugly, “Joru, compared to wealthy men, I may not be much. But compared to you, I’m rich! I have nine oxen, nine plots of farmland, nine sons, and nine daughters. In spring and winter, my wine never runs out, and in summer and autumn, my dairy is abundant. How could I ever team up with someone like you? I absolutely refuse!” Joru chuckled and replied, “Gulu, do you think I don’t desire the golden throne and Zumu? Of course, I do. But Zumu is so perfect, and I, Joru, am so poor. The heroes competing for her are all so powerful—I don’t even know what to do. This morning, I heard Zumu say that no matter who wins the prize, it must be shared between Gulu and me. That’s why I told you the truth. When I win, will you really refuse to take your share? Won’t you regret it later? Let me tell you, Gulu, whether I participate in the race or not, the treasures of Jialuo, Zumu as my wife, and the throne of Ling Gabu are all destined to be mine. But since you don’t want to team up, we’ll go our separate ways. Just don’t follow behind my horse. Be careful—it might kick you!” Joru then sang, teasing Gulu further: "A curved blade cuts its wielder’s hand, A bent horn blinds the eye on command. A crooked arm punches its own face, A hunchback’s mouth bites its leg in disgrace. An overturned jar holds no water, A bent rainbow is no robe for a daughter. A twisted body comes from disease, When it flares, it robs your ease. A twisted heart reflects selfish desire, Too much greed turns one into a liar. A hundred climb the mountain steep, The hunchback bends like legs for feet. A hundred stand tall, proud and straight, The hunchback lies as if it’s too late. Brothers race forward with ambition, Gulu rides backward in opposition!" Joru whipped his horse and sped forward. Gulu, furious, trembled with rage. He tried desperately to straighten his back and argue with Joru, but no matter how hard he tried, his hunched back remained. “That wretched Joru!” Gulu thought. “Even if I can’t win the prize, I’ll make sure he doesn’t either!” Enraged, Gulu began whipping his white-faced camel recklessly. The camel, confused and frightened, bucked and swayed, blocking Joru’s path. Joru laughed at Gulu’s foolishness. He gently tapped his horse’s ear. The divine steed understood immediately, kicked Gulu’s camel into a ditch, and swallowed Gulu whole. Inside the horse’s body, Gulu found himself in what looked like a golden temple with glowing red walls and shining statues. Just as Gulu knelt to pray, the horse spat him out, along with a pile of dung, onto the ground. Gulu landed on the dung unharmed. His camel licked his hand, and Gulu stood up, trembling and disheartened. Watching Joru disappear into the distance, Gulu sighed deeply, mounted his camel, and turned back. Joru’s Encounters with Beautiful Oro and Others The divine steed Jiangga Peibu carried Joru forward like the wind, overtaking one excellent horse after another and surpassing group after group of racers. Soon, Joru caught up with one of the three handsome men of Ling Gabu, Oro. Joru, seeing that there was still plenty of time, patted Jiangga Peibu’s neck. The steed immediately understood that its master wanted to chat and slowed its pace. Joru observed Oro closely. Oro was indeed handsome: a glowing forehead, rosy cheeks, pearl-like teeth, and starry eyes. He wore a plain white silk robe and rode a “Tibetan Snow Mountain” horse. He was a striking figure, like a youthful nobleman dressed in radiant silver. Joru admired Oro silently but wondered whether this beautiful young man’s heart was as good as his appearance. He decided to test him. “Hey, handsome Oro, do you know who I am?” Joru called out. Oro was so focused on the race that he hadn’t noticed Joru watching him. Hearing Joru’s voice, he turned and immediately recognized him. “Of course, Joru! The people of Ling Gabu may not know every lion in the land, but no one fails to know you!” Oro replied with a smile. “Oh? Then can I ask you for a favor?” “Of course, just tell me!” Oro answered without hesitation. “Look at the two of us. We are so different! You are so handsome, and I am so plain. You are so wealthy, and I am so poor. We live under the same sky and share the same earth—why should there be such differences? Shouldn’t we be equals? Will you help me become as handsome and rich as you?” Joru asked. He didn’t look at Oro while speaking, but when he finished, he stared at Oro intently. Oro thought to himself: “This Joru is a divine being with great power and wisdom. He is said to be a Bodhisattva who took human form to save all beings. If Ling Gabu is fortunate enough to have him, he could lead not only humans but also gods and spirits. His current disheveled appearance and his song must be a test for me.” “Well… of course, I’m willing to help you. After the race, come to my home, and I’ll share half of my wealth with you,” Oro replied, hesitating only slightly but remaining generous. “But I can’t wait that long,” Joru said. “Then what can I give you right now? Hmm… how about this? I’ll give you my precious ceremonial hat,” Oro offered. Joru, knowing the hat’s extraordinary value, had already seen that Oro’s heart matched his outward beauty. However, he wasn’t sure if Oro truly understood the significance of the hat or if he was just offering it as an ordinary gift. Joru pretended to be unimpressed. “What’s the use of a hat? Can it make me handsome or rich?” “Joru, don’t you know the value of this hat? It’s a treasure from our family shrine. You want to be handsome? Physical beauty doesn’t fill an empty stomach. True beauty isn’t just about appearance—it comes from within. Haven’t you heard the song? ‘Youthful boys are handsome with arms, Without courage, they’re just cowards. Beautiful girls shine in fine clothes, Without wisdom, they’re nothing but fools.’ “This hat may not make you more handsome, but it can give you something far greater,” Oro explained. “Oh? Then tell me,” Joru said, intrigued. “Look at the four feathers on its top—they symbolize the ability to travel unhindered across the land. And look closer: Four sides represent the four great continents, Its eight corners symbolize the eight sub-continents. Fold it, and it lies flat on two sides, Unfold it, and it forms a perfect square. Three tassels hang down gracefully, Guarding you against the Five Poisons and Three Defilements. The four sides, pure white and soft, Wearing it, your heart will shine bright. Six petals of a green lotus, Grant liberation to all beings in six realms. The high ear flaps on both sides, Endless wisdom and knowledge to guide.” “This ceremonial hat suits you perfectly, Joru. Please accept it,” Oro said sincerely. Joru, secretly delighted, took the hat and placed it on his head, tucking his old sheepskin hat into his robe. In return, he gave Oro the crystal vial and the auspicious silk scarf gifted to him by the celestial maiden, wishing Oro even more beauty and wealth. Joru then galloped forward, overtaking more riders. Soon, he spotted the fortune-teller Gunxie Tibu and thought, “Everyone says his predictions are incredibly accurate. Since there’s still time, why not let him read my fortune?” With this in mind, Joru approached Gunxie Tibu and rode alongside him. “Great Fortune-Teller, I’ve heard of your fame. Today, I, Joru, would like to ask for a reading,” Joru said with a smile. “Oh, Joru, what would you like to know?” Gunxie Tibu asked without slowing his horse. “I’ve been wondering—how did the treasures of the Dharma King, the empire of the Jiana Emperor, and the thrones of the eighteen border kingdoms come to be? None of these were won by racing fast horses. Yet here in Ling Gabu, why does the throne depend on having the fastest horse? If your horse is fast, you’re the king. If it’s slow, you’re a slave. Isn’t that strange?” “That’s not a question I can answer,” Gunxie Tibu said with a frown. “I understand. I don’t need you to answer that. I just want you to tell me—will I win the prize?” “Joru, if this were a normal day, I would lay out my prayer mat, calm my mind, and pray sincerely to the gods for guidance. But today, with horses racing and reins snapping, I can only give you a quick fortune. I hope you don’t mind,” Gunxie Tibu said. “Of course! As long as it’s accurate, I will reward you generously,” Joru replied. Gunxie Tibu prayed and cast his fortune while riding. After a few moments, he shouted excitedly, “Joru, this is an excellent omen! The first sign descends from the heavens, Symbolizing the vast sky above. It’s an omen of securing the land, A sign that you will be king of Ling Gabu. The second sign rises from the earth, Symbolizing solid foundations. It’s an omen of peace and prosperity, A sign that you will be a great ruler. The third sign emerges from the ocean, Symbolizing unity and harmony. It’s an omen of family happiness, A sign that you will marry Zumu.” Joru laughed, delighted by the accuracy of Gunxie Tibu’s fortune. He gifted the fortune-teller a pure white scarf as a token of gratitude. Joru’s Feigned Illness and the Advice of the Doctor Joru ran a bit further before suddenly groaning and clutching his chest. His face turned pale, his body appeared weak, and he fell from his saddle, collapsing to the ground. He lay there moaning, “Oh no! I’m in so much pain! It hurts so badly!” At that moment, the renowned physician Gongga Nima happened to pass by. He immediately stopped his horse and asked, “Joru, what’s wrong? Are you sick?” “Yes, Doctor. Eight years of wandering have left me with chronic illnesses. Can you give me some medicine to help?” Joru replied weakly. Gongga Nima hesitated because he didn’t have his full medicine bag with him. While he had some emergency remedies, he wasn’t sure if they could treat Joru’s condition. Seeing Joru in such apparent pain, the doctor felt pity. He dismounted, crouched beside Joru, and asked, “Joru, where does it hurt? Is the pain severe? Let me check your pulse and see if I can help.” The doctor placed his fingers on Joru’s wrist as Joru continued to complain. “Oh, it hurts so much! My upper body feels like it’s burning—like a fever scorching my heart. My waist feels icy cold—like frost stabbing into my bones. My lower body feels like it’s boiling—like hot water searing my skin. Inside, it feels like my heart is breaking apart; outside, my body feels like it’s decaying. Doctor, am I dying?” After listening to Joru and finishing his pulse check, Gongga Nima looked at him with a puzzled expression. “Joru, illnesses are caused by three imbalances: wind, bile, and phlegm. They arise from greed, anger, and ignorance. When these three mix, they cause 424 types of diseases. But your pulse… it doesn’t match your symptoms. You have no signs of illness. Your body is balanced, harmonious, and clear of impurities. Either my diagnosis is wrong, or your pulse is an illusion—or perhaps, Joru, you’re faking this illness. Joru, there’s no need for this. Your pulse is strong, your future is bright, and you will succeed in your endeavors. The prize is already yours to claim.” Hearing this, Joru immediately jumped to his feet, his sickly appearance vanishing in an instant. He smiled, draped a white scarf around the doctor’s neck, and said, “The people of Ling Gabu say you, Gongga Nima, are the most skilled physician. Now I’ve seen it for myself—you’re truly extraordinary! Doctor, I’ll see you again after the race.” Joru mounted his horse and sped off, and in no time, he caught up with the overseer, Wang Rongchacha Gen. Joru called out cheerfully, “Uncle!” “Where have you been all this time? If you don’t catch up soon, Chao Tong will take the throne!” the overseer said sternly, his tone filled with frustration. “Don’t worry, Uncle. That won’t happen. You should know better than anyone—how could the throne, destined by the heavens, be taken by a mere beast? The masters and gods can testify to this. Along the race, I’ve already done many good deeds for everyone. Of course, I’ve also seen quite a lot of excitement,” Joru said, recalling his earlier encounters, especially with the hunchback Gulu, which made him laugh again. “Joru, stop treating this race like a joke. Go now! If you don’t hurry, even the gods won’t help you!” the overseer said, giving Joru’s horse a firm slap on the rear. The divine steed Jiangga Peibu leaped forward like a bolt of lightning, leaving the overseer far behind. Notes Jue Ru: Means "to lift upward" or "to straighten up." Gu Ru: Means "to bend down" or "to hunch over."

The grand horse race was about to begin. The beautiful and lively Malong Grassland was filled with a festive atmosphere. The cuckoos were singing, the larks were chirping, the sky was as blue as a sapphire, and the clouds were as white as silk. The flowers bloomed red, the grass turned green, and the grassland seemed even more expansive than usual. K i n g G e s a r of Tibet The Legend from ling King Gesar (about 1038-1119 AD) was a legendary Tibetan hero who was born in Dege County, Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. Later generations called him King Gesar of Ling. According to legend, King Gesar is also the incarnation of the Guru Rinpoche and his wisdom, compassion and power. Chapter 20: The Horse Racing Festival: Heroes Display Their Might, Seven Women Harbor Different Intentions The Grand Horse Race Begins The grand horse race was about to begin. The beautiful and lively Malong Grassland was filled with a festive atmosphere. The cuckoos were singing, the larks were chirping, the sky was as blue as a sapphire, and the clouds were as white as silk. The flowers bloomed red, the grass turned green, and the grassland seemed even more expansive than usual. The Datang Chamao gathering site was packed with people, as crowded as a sea of heads. Young girls wore their most beloved dresses—ones they rarely wore—and laughed, played, and chased each other like blooming flowers. Even the elderly fathers and mothers, who usually walked hunched over, wore brand-new clothes, stood tall with cheerful smiles, and reminisced about their youthful days, suddenly looking much younger. However, the most eye-catching figures at the event were the heroes and warriors participating in the horse race. Look! Leading the group was the eldest son of the Sewa Ba family of the Upper Ridge, accompanied by his nine brothers. They were like fierce tigers descending from the mountains. All the brothers wore yellow silk robes and rode horses with yellow saddles. Under the sunlight, they looked luxurious and dazzling. Next was the Wenbu family of the Middle Ridge, led by their eight great heroes. They were like snow falling to the ground, their white silk robes and white saddles gleaming like silver under the sun. Then came the Mujian family of the Lower Ridge, led by their seven warriors. They were like a stormy sky filled with rain clouds. Their dark blue silk robes and blue saddles shone like crystal under the sunlight. Beyond them were the warriors of the Right Wing, the Left Wing, and the eighteen tribes of Darong, including the Darwu Mutso Mabu Tribe, the wealthy Jialuo family, and the Yinshan and Yangshan regions of the Danma Valley. Everyone wore colorful silk robes and saddles, and everyone was full of pride and ambition. No one doubted their chances of victory, and no one thought they wouldn't claim the throne. Each prayed to the gods, firmly believing that the gods would favor them. Look at Darong's leader, King Chao Tong, along with his son Dongzan and the warriors of the eighteen Darong tribes. They held their heads high, confident in their victory. To them, the prophecy of the horse race was a divine revelation from the Horse-Headed King to Chao Tong. They believed the gods were protecting them. With the Yuja horse, the fastest horse in Ling Gabu, they thought no other horse could surpass it. The Darong tribe had already claimed the throne in their hearts, considering the race a mere formality. The Rival Lineages and Joru’s Arrival The elder brothers of the Long lineage, who belonged to the senior branch of the family, believed they couldn’t let their status as the first branch be diminished. They thought, “If the gods are just, they will grant the throne to the senior branch.” Full of confidence, they prepared themselves with great excitement. The brothers of the Zhong lineage, who were part of the middle branch, felt that they had been overlooked in the past. They saw this horse race as a chance to claim the throne and bring honor to their branch. The eight great heroes of the Zhong lineage had trained their horses until their coats gleamed like polished jade, ready to run across the grass like the wind. As for the youngest branch, led by Steward Wang Rongchacha, they were confident in their destiny despite their lower standing. Steward Wang often recalled the prophecy made twelve years ago by Padma Totreng, which stated that this horse race was meant for Joru to win. He believed that Joru was destined to ascend the throne honorably. They didn’t believe in Chao Tong’s prophecy about the Horse-Headed King, nor did they boast and shout like Chao Tong and Dongzan. Unlike the senior and middle branches, who were vain and competitive, they quietly prepared, confident that the throne belonged to their branch and that only Joru was worthy of marrying Zumu as queen. But where was Joru? Why hadn’t he arrived yet? Steward Wang and Jiacha scanned the area anxiously, and the brothers of Qiongju also searched nervously for Joru. “Joru is here!” someone in the crowd called out. The crowd stirred with excitement. Finally, someone had appeared who could rival Dongzan and the Yuja horse. Zumu joined her sisters, secretly delighted. She thought, “The Joru appearing before everyone today will no longer be the poor boy of the past but a noble, dignified, and grand Joru — my future husband and the King of Ling Gabu.” Thinking this, Zumu raised her head slightly, radiating the composure of a proud princess and future queen. But when Zumu looked at Joru, she froze in shock. She rubbed her eyes, doubting her vision, but it was indeed Joru. However, he looked entirely different from what she had expected. He wore a tattered, ill-fitting sheepskin hat with a wide brim, an old, torn calfskin jacket with fraying edges, and red boots so worn that his toes stuck out. Even the golden saddle and silver stirrups on his horse were broken and shabby. He didn’t look like a competitor in the race but rather a beggar. The youngest branch’s brothers were immediately disappointed upon seeing Joru’s disheveled appearance. They walked away with slumped shoulders, keeping their distance from Joru as if afraid his bad luck might rub off on them. Only Jiacha and Steward Wang remained calm. They understood that, despite his appearance, Joru was destined to take the throne of Ling Gabu. Yet they said nothing, quietly waiting for the race to begin. Zumu, however, was heartbroken. She couldn’t believe that this ragged beggar was supposed to be her husband. She felt like crying, especially when she saw Joru’s hunched back and awkward demeanor. Just then, a bee flew near her ear and sang softly. Suddenly, Zumu smiled, her expression bright and beautiful. She realized that the Joru before her was merely another one of his transformations. In her impatience, she had forgotten about Joru’s ability to change forms. Chao Tong, on the other hand, was thrilled to see Joru in such a state. He thought, “This is perfect! I have no opponent now. The Darong family no longer needs to worry about losing the throne to Joru.” Feeling both pleased and relieved, Chao Tong was unusually friendly toward Joru on the racecourse. He grew even more convinced that the prophecy of the Horse-Headed King was true. Confident and arrogant, he shouted to the Qiongju brothers, who looked dejected, “Brothers, get ready! Cheer up! The horse race is about to begin.” His tone was filled with pride and triumph. After all, seeing Joru’s embarrassing state and Chao Tong’s smug expression, everyone believed that the day’s winner could only be Chao Tong. The Race Begins and the Dream Conversation At the base of Ayudi Mountain, the warriors lined up side by side, neither ahead nor behind. A long ceremonial horn sounded, announcing the start of the race. One by one, the magnificent horses surged forward like rolling clouds, galloping across the grasslands. Very soon, Ling Gabu’s thirty renowned heroes took the lead: Sewa, Wenbu, and Mujian. Known as the "Three Tigers" within the region and the "Hawk, Eagle, and Wolf" to outsiders, they were the heart, eyes, and soul of Ling Gabu, its pillars and beams. Their horses didn’t just run—they flew. Led by Jiacha, the seven warriors of Ling Gabu were the protectors of the people, celebrated as the seven champions of the land. Commanding an army of 700,000, they were like seven golden mountains, capable of carrying the weight of the earth. Their horses galloped ceaselessly, like rainbows dancing in the sky. At the forefront of strategy and heritage were the four uncles, led by Steward Wang. These wise and knowledgeable elders were the decision-makers for Ling Gabu’s major affairs and the guardians of ancestral traditions. Like the four great rivers of Mount Gangdise, they nourished the land like dewdrops of wisdom. Their horses soared into the sky like wild winds sweeping across the fields. Led by Angqiong Yuyemeiduo, the thirteen young warriors of Ling Gabu formed the army's core strength. They were like thirteen divine arrows, powerful weapons against demonic enemies. Their thirteen horses moved like swirling clouds, roaring like thunder as they charged forward. Meanwhile, columns of smoke rose from Ludi Mountain like misty clouds, enveloping the vibrant racecourse with a mysterious air. On Ludi Mountain, thirteen sacred temples were filled with people offering incense to the gods. Fragrant smoke from cedar and a special wood called “sang” filled the sky. Butter lamps surrounded the sacred altar, their flickering flames creating an enchanting, dreamlike atmosphere. The sound of conch shells echoed as people prostrated themselves, murmuring prayers to the gods and guardians, singing praises to the god of war. The Seven Sisters and Laichong’s Dream On Ladi Mountain, the spectators watching the horse race were just as tense as the competitors. Even the usually lively Seven Sisters were wide-eyed with nervousness, afraid to miss the smallest change in the race. Among the gatherings of Ling Gabu, the Seven Sisters were known for their impeccable style, and no one dressed better than them. But it wasn’t just their beautiful clothes that caught people’s attention—it was their graceful figures, radiant charm, and captivating demeanor. Whenever they appeared, they immediately became the center of attention. Yet the sisters didn’t mind; in fact, they seemed to enjoy being admired. As the horses galloped farther away, Laichong Ruguchaya suddenly remembered something. She leaned over and whispered to Zumu, “Sister Zumu, I had a dream last night. I dreamed that…” “Don’t whisper! If you have something to say, say it out loud so we can all hear!” Zhuoluo Baiganaze teased Laichong with a smile. “Yes, tell us!” The other girls gathered closer, their curiosity piqued. Unable to see the race clearly, they returned to their lively and playful nature. “Alright!” Laichong said with a mischievous grin, her bright eyes sparkling. Feeling proud to have everyone’s attention, she began to sing: "Jialuo, E’luo, and Zhuoluo— With wealth, they’re the Three Uncles. Without wealth, they’re the Three Servant Boys. Zumu, Laichong, and Naze— With wealth, they’re the Three Sisters. Without wealth, they’re the Three Maidservants." The girls burst into laughter at Laichong’s teasing song. Laichong’s Dream and Chaomu’s Outburst “No one wants to hear that,” Naze said, looking annoyed. “Laichong, didn’t you say you had a dream last night? Tell us about it,” Zumu said, not interested in Laichong’s playful rhymes. “Don’t be so impatient! I have to teach you something first, and then I’ll tell you my story!” Laichong replied mischievously. She then began to sing again: "Last night in my sweet dreams, I saw the golden land of Malong. A giant eagle and dragon played in the sky, Lions and tigers raced on the ground, Elephants marched with great strength, And the rainbow arch was even more beautiful. I saw a hero fly into the heavens, With power to shake the earth. He neither reached the sky’s peak Nor touched the ground, suspended in mid-air. I saw in the ancient heavenly lake, The sun and thick clouds competing. Though clouds floated in the sky, The sun’s rays shone across the heavens. I, Laichong, wish for the sun’s warmth, Bringing joy and comfort to all." When Laichong finished singing, she closed her mouth and fell silent. “That’s it?” asked Chaomu Cuo, Chao Tong’s daughter. Laichong nodded, not wanting to say more. “What does it mean?” Chaomu Cuo asked, clearly confused. Not only was she puzzled, but the other girls shook their heads as well. Only Zumu, her mind as clear as a mirror, smiled quietly, keeping her thoughts to herself. “Who can explain my dream?” Laichong asked dramatically, raising an eyebrow. “I’ll try!” said Yuzhen, Steward Wang’s daughter. Unlike Chaomu Cuo’s naivety or Laichong’s playful nature, Yuzhen was quick-witted and sharp. Looking around at her sisters, she began to sing: "The elder branch’s spirit clings to the eagle, The middle branch’s spirit clings to the dragon, The youngest branch’s spirit clings to the lion, Darong’s spirit clings to the tiger. The brothers’ spirits cling to the elephant, If their courage can soar to the heavens And anchor the earth, It’s a sign of unmatched heroism. But hearing Laichong’s dream, Their bravery and skills fall short. The golden throne cannot be claimed by mere horses. The rainbow arching the heavens And the sun and clouds competing in the lake Symbolize Joru’s divine lineage. The clouds disappearing, and the sun shining bright Represent the removal of suffering. The blazing sun rising in the sky Foretells Joru’s ascent to the throne. Its light illuminating the world Means Joru will bring prosperity to all. May the golden sun shine brilliantly, A symbol of Joru’s blessings to the people." When Yuzhen finished singing, Laichong was delighted, and Zumu nodded in agreement. However, Chaomu Cuo reacted like an enraged lioness. She squirmed angrily, her body twisting like a snake, and her hair whipped around like an ox’s tail. Furious, she thought, “The Yuja horse is already recognized as the fastest, and my father’s claim to the throne is certain. How dare these two girls say the throne belongs to Joru? This is outrageous!” Unable to contain her anger, Chaomu Cuo sneered loudly and said: "In a dirty place where dust clouds the sky, No green grass or fragrant flowers can grow. A corrupt official's mind holds nothing but lies, Twisting right and wrong as they please. Arrogant daughters of bad mothers, You lack wisdom and intelligence. Before a wise teacher speaks, A foolish monk blabbers nonsense. Before a wise leader decides, A foolish minister shouts commands. Before knowing the master’s taste, A servant cooks whatever they want. Without even seeing the house’s gate, You’re already scheming to take the servant’s wages. Without knowing where your next meal comes from, You act like the master who owns the dog." Laichong and Yuzhen were stunned into silence by Chaomu Cuo’s incoherent tirade, unable to understand her chaotic thoughts. Just as they were figuring out how to respond, Chaomu Cuo continued her rant: "You say Joru’s poverty is a good omen— Then go ahead and wait for it! You say Joru’s suffering is a good sign— Then go and accept it! You say the beggar Joru is a divine child— Then marry him yourself!" Finally, Laichong and Yuzhen understood why Chaomu Cuo was so angry. Their discussion of the dream and its interpretation had clearly provoked her. Just as they were about to retaliate, Zumu gently tugged on their sleeves, signaling them to let it go. Laichong pouted in frustration, but Yuzhen understood Zumu’s intentions and decided not to argue further. She thought, “Let her see the results of the race. Then she’ll slap her own face with her words.” Chaomu Cuo, seeing no one respond to her, became even more brazen and declared: "The golden throne belongs to the Yuja horse. Zumu belongs to the Chao Tong King. Jialuo’s wealth will go to the Darong family. Ling Gabu will belong to my father’s rule. A real man, a strong horse, or a powerful ox— Without beauty outside, can they have worth inside? Like cooking an empty lung, There’s nothing to chew, and it won’t fill your stomach. Joru looks like a beggar outside, And inside, he’s just an empty stomach. His horse is like a rat, Not running but crawling. Falling behind the others, It looks like it’s pecking at food. Or like a beetle pushing forward with its nose. Even if there are few ribbons for last place, Joru will surely win one!" The sisters ignored Chaomu Cuo’s insults, but Laichong and Yuzhen’s faces flushed red with anger. Only Zumu remained composed, smiling faintly as she continued to observe the race with quiet confidence.

The people of Ling Gabu were thrilled to see Joru return. "Joru and Guomu are back!" they shouted. "Zumu has brought Joru home!" To the people, especially those from Qiongjü, Joru’s return was a major event, as they had pinned their hopes for the horse race on him. K i n g G e s a r of Tibet The Legend from ling King Gesar (about 1038-1119 AD) was a legendary Tibetan hero who was born in Dege County, Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. Later generations called him King Gesar of Ling. According to legend, King Gesar is also the incarnation of the Guru Rinpoche and his wisdom, compassion and power. Chapter 19: Chao Tong Schemes to Seize the Divine Steed, Dunba Sacrifices the Precious Saddle for the Greater Good Joru’s Homecoming and Chao Tong’s Scheme The people of Ling Gabu were thrilled to see Joru return. "Joru and Guomu are back!" they shouted. "Zumu has brought Joru home!" To the people, especially those from Qiongjü, Joru’s return was a major event, as they had pinned their hopes for the horse race on him. Crowds gathered around Joru and Guomu, greeting them warmly and asking countless questions about their journey. However, all eyes were drawn to the divine horse that Guomu was leading. This was no ordinary steed, and its magnificence left everyone in awe. Among the welcoming crowd, one person was missing—King Chao Tong of Darong. Joru searched for his uncle with his eyes, eager to see him for many reasons. After settling his mother, Joru wasted no time and led the divine horse straight to Chao Tong’s home. Standing outside the door, Joru called out loudly, "Uncle! Joru has come to visit you. Please prepare a feast for me and feed my horse!" Hearing Joru’s voice, Chao Tong came out. However, his eyes were immediately drawn to the divine horse. He stared at the horse with admiration and greed, captivated by its beauty and rarity. After a moment, he turned his attention to Joru and greeted him warmly. "My dear nephew!" Chao Tong exclaimed. "I heard you were back, and I was about to come greet you, but something came up and delayed me. A few days ago, we were discussing the horse race, and even though you weren’t here, I didn’t forget about you! I even saved a feast for you!" Joru noticed the greedy glint in Chao Tong’s eyes as he stared at the horse. He chuckled to himself, knowing that his uncle was already scheming to take the horse. Chao Tong was the type of man who wouldn’t let go of even the smallest benefit, let alone a horse as extraordinary as this one. Sure enough, Chao Tong asked, "My dear nephew, whose horse is this? Where did you get it? I’ve never seen such a horse before!" Joru’s Clever Response to Chao Tong Joru sneered slightly and replied, "When I was exiled, this horse was still in its mother’s belly. How could you have seen it, Uncle? After the old mare gave birth to it, I didn’t have the resources to raise it properly, so I let it roam freely in the mountains. It’s never been trained and looks like a wild horse now. Whether I can even ride it, we’ll have to find out at the horse race." Hearing Joru’s first few words, Chao Tong grew nervous. After all, he had been the one behind Joru’s exile. But when Joru didn’t press the issue and instead talked about the horse as if it were untrained, Chao Tong felt relieved. "Oh, Joru, my good nephew," Chao Tong said, "for the horse race, a steed needs to be strong, fast, tall, well-behaved, and good-looking. From what I see, your horse doesn’t seem to have these qualities, which might put you at a disadvantage. Why don’t we make a deal?" "A deal?" Joru asked, pretending to be curious. "Yes, a trade!" Chao Tong said eagerly. "I have a green-maned white horse, carefully chosen from the best of my herd. It would be perfect for the race. Let’s trade horses, and I’ll even give you some extra compensation if you ask for it." Joru laughed and said, "Trading is fine if both sides agree willingly. But this horse, though wild, is a rare treasure. If I don’t sell it, I can’t train it, but if I sell it, it would be such a waste. If you, Uncle, can cover my mother’s expenses for winter and summer, and give me thirteen bolts of silk, thirteen silver ingots shaped like horseshoes, and thirteen bags of gold, then I might consider it. But even then, your horse must suit me, and my horse must suit you." Chao Tong’s Preparations and Joru’s Visit Chao Tong was overjoyed when he heard Joru agree to trade horses. However, he failed to notice the subtle irony in Joru's words. The next day, Chao Tong prepared an extravagant feast with the finest tea, yak milk from a three-year-old calf, sweet pastries, rich meat and vegetable dishes, fresh fruit, and aged wine. The food filled the tent, piled high in an overwhelming display. In addition, Chao Tong prepared the items Joru had demanded in exchange for the horse: thirteen bolts of silk, thirteen silver ingots shaped like horseshoes, and thirteen bags of gold. Just as Chao Tong was about to send someone to deliver these items, Joru arrived, leading the divine horse. Seeing Joru and the horse, Chao Tong was delighted. He became even more convinced of the prophecy of the Horse-Headed King, believing it to be absolutely true and infallible. Now he was certain: once he acquired Joru’s horse, he could secure victory at the horse race and claim the throne. Chao Tong greeted Joru with a wide smile and said, "My dear nephew, everything is ready for you, and I guarantee you’ll be satisfied. In the past, we didn’t have much time to talk, so today we must make up for it and have a good chat." Joru looked around the tent, filled with food and gifts, and kept his expression neutral. He said, "Uncle, since you’ve prepared all this, I’ll accept it. But there’s so much—how will I carry it all by myself?" Chao Tong quickly reassured him, "You don’t need to worry about that, nephew. I’ll have my steward deliver it to your mother’s tent." He then ordered his steward to take all the gifts to Guomu’s tent immediately. Once everything was taken care of, Joru sat down. "Uncle, if you have anything to say, please go ahead," he said. Chao Tong smiled and replied, "It’s not a command, nephew, but some life wisdom I’d like to share with you as we talk." With that, Chao Tong began to sing: Childhood, youth, and old age Are the three ornaments of life. In youth, with kind and loving parents, Happiness lasts into old age without end. Teachers, disciples, and benefactors Are the three ornaments of spiritual practice. When the teacher instructs and the student practices, Both rejoice in achieving enlightenment. Leaders, ministers, and citizens Are the three ornaments of governance. Virtuous policies inspire loyalty in subjects, And gratitude brings harmony and joy to all. Fathers, uncles, and nephews Are the three ornaments of the tribe's honor. By using wisdom to subdue enemies, Kinship and love bring lasting happiness. Mothers-in-law, daughters, and daughters-in-law Are the three ornaments of a thriving household. When their hearts align, both sides find joy, And peace endures through the years. Relatives, friends, and acquaintances Are the three ornaments of worldly happiness. Mutual benefit brings shared joy, And sincerity leads to endless harmony. The sun, moon, and stars Are the three ornaments of the vast heavens. Their warmth and light bless the world, Together, they remain inseparable in the sky. Clouds, thunder, and rain Are the three ornaments of the great expanse. Together, they nurture and depend on each other, Bringing blessings to the earth below. Seeds, crops, and fruit Are the three ornaments of fertile land. They bring abundance to livestock and humans alike, Flourishing together in beauty and harmony. Fathers, uncles, and nephews Together are the three ornaments of Ling Gabu. By devising wise strategies to subdue four enemies, They enjoy peace and happiness without separation. When Chao Tong finished his song, he looked at Joru warmly. His gaze carried a sense of pride, as though he believed Joru would be deeply moved and grateful for his words of wisdom. Joru’s Sharp Retort Joru raised his eyebrows and said, "Uncle, since you’ve finished speaking, I’ll say a few words myself." He then began to sing: "Children are ignorant and lack understanding, Youth is reckless and without wisdom; Old age brings blindness and shamelessness— Living long with such foolishness is worse than death. Prideful monks seek nothing but power, Disciples break rules and create chaos; Stingy benefactors cling to selfishness, Upholding the Dharma becomes deceitful self-interest. Leaders bury their hearts in money bags, Ministers deceive both their leaders and the people; Innocent citizens are punished unfairly— How can there be joy or gratitude in governance? Fathers and uncles are more cunning than mountains, Brothers’ scheming hearts rot like corpses; Nephews, powerless, are exiled to the outskirts, Subduing enemies or protecting kin proves pointless. Mothers-in-law’s hearts are darker than the void, Daughters-in-law behave wilder than mountain goats; Daughters’ minds are filled with greed, Long-lasting harmony is impossible to achieve. Relatives often end up harboring hatred, Acquaintances turn their faces away in the end; Friends and kin eventually take each other to court— True sincerity is almost impossible to find. The sun sets behind the western mountains, Clouds cover the moon, plunging the night into darkness; Stars are chased away by the dawn, The beautiful decorations of the sky are torn apart. Thick clouds scatter in the wind, The dragon hides, nowhere to be seen; Rain vanishes far away in the sky, Unable to bless the earth with its grace. Grass seeds are eaten by wild cattle, Crops are locked away in storage, Ripe fruits rot on the ground, Flowers bloom brightly but only for a short while. My father, Senlen, is naive and foolish, My uncle, Chao Tong, is full of schemes; I, Joru, have endured great suffering, How could we ever remain together in unity?" When Joru finished singing, he looked at Chao Tong with a mocking gaze, as if to say: Didn’t I answer perfectly? Isn’t this exactly what’s in your heart? Chao Tong’s Frustration and Joru’s Ultimatum Chao Tong realized that Joru was too clever and sharp-tongued, and he knew he couldn’t outmatch him in their exchange. He wanted to scold Joru, but he feared escalating the situation. Instead, he forced a smile and said, "Life is full of joys and sorrows—it all depends on how you look at it. Let’s not dwell on this. Nephew, let’s take a look at the horse instead." Joru replied, "There’s no need to look at the horse. If Uncle is willing to trade it for the Yuja horse, then we’ll talk. If not, there’s nothing more to discuss." "You?!" Chao Tong exclaimed, shocked at Joru’s boldness. How could he possibly give up the Yuja horse? "Uncle, are you unwilling?" Joru asked, deliberately provoking him. "Nephew, don’t joke," Chao Tong replied. "The Yuja horse is a rare treasure of our Darong family. How could I easily give it away to someone else?" "Your Yuja horse is your treasure, and my Jiangga Peibu is not my treasure? Why should I easily give it to you?" "Fine," Joru continued, "trade is a matter of mutual agreement. Since you’re unwilling, take back the gifts you’ve offered." "Taking back what’s already been given? That’s unheard of in this land. Surely, Uncle wouldn’t want to set such a precedent, would he?" After saying this, Joru led his divine steed, Jiangga Peibu, and left without looking back. Chao Tong was so furious that he could barely catch his breath. He resolved to take his revenge at the upcoming horse race. Joru Visits Jialuo's Family Not long after, Joru chose an auspicious day and brought his divine horse to Jialuo’s home. Standing at the door, he shouted loudly, "Hey! Zumu! You said you would prepare a saddle for my horse, give me a whip, and bless the whip with prayers. Now is the time to fulfill your promise!" Hearing Joru’s call, Jialuo Dunba Jianzhan, Zumu’s father, came out to greet him. He quickly prepared a grand seat, laid down silk cushions, and served fine food and delicacies to welcome Joru. He also presented a ceremonial white khata scarf as a gift and began to sing a song to Joru: Inwardly, I am the accomplished Padma Totreng, Secretly, I am the Bodhisattva Vajradhara, Outwardly, I am the fierce Rahula King, My palace lies in the land of Uddiyana. Oh, master of wisdom, Padma Totreng, please observe! If you wonder who I am, In my past life, I was Kubera, the wealth deity. I once offered treasures to Padma Totreng in Uddiyana. I am the father of Zumu, Jialuo Dunba Jianzhan, a man of great wealth. Jialuo, E’luo, and Zhuoluo— Three brothers, all equally rich. One day, the three of us were on the mountain, When a great master appeared out of nowhere. His virtue was as vast as the heavens, His teachings led to liberation. Upon seeing him, I immediately bowed at his feet, And all my worldly thoughts disappeared. I couldn’t clearly see what he carried in front, Nor could I see the treasures he bore on his back. When we met, the master said to me: “The saddle, reins, whip, and cushion— These four treasures are gifts from the dragon king Zonarinchen. They are entrusted to you, Jialuo, for safekeeping. One day, when the son of the heavens descends, A being of great power and wisdom will come to your home. When that time comes, you must offer these four treasures to him. My son, Zhujiyong, is useless— He is certainly not the one destined to descend from the heavens. My daughter, Zumu, is talented and capable, But alas, she is only a woman. I remember when your father chose his bride, He chose the beautiful dragon maiden Guomu. Her strength was as enduring as the mountains she upheld, Her authority as vast as the sky that covers all. It felt like a dream, yet it was real. All the signs point to you, Joru, as the destined one." The towering peaks that reach the sky— They were not arranged for eagles, The black vulture king came because of destiny. The lush green cypress trees that grow tall— They were not grown for cuckoos, The divine bird perched because of fate. The vast oceans that hide dragons and serpents— They were not created for fish to gather, The fish came to swim because of fortune. Jialuo Dunba’s vast wealth, Was not amassed for his own pleasure, It exists because of Joru—it is his source. Wealth is like a treasure, a perfect ring, Blessings are like golden hooks, drawing fortune. The mother’s womb one is born into cannot be chosen, The throne cannot be won by speed alone. A short life cannot be extended by skillful hands, A wicked heart cannot be reforged by a blacksmith. The karma of past lives cannot be contested with a horse, The fate of this life cannot be stopped or changed. If we use wisdom to observe, The throne of Ling and the crown, The husband of Zumu, Are all destined to be Joru by the will of the heavens. Zumu’s Blessings for the Divine Horse When Jialuo Dunba Jianzhan finished his song, Zumu brought out a saddle and whip, presenting them to Joru. She then struck a sacred drum with a six-beat rhythm and sang a song to awaken the divine horse’s abilities: In this sacred place, I pray to the Supreme Saving Mother, Grant me wisdom and clarity to sing this song. This chestnut horse is extraordinary, Its ears are tipped with tufts of eagle feathers, It holds the power to hear in all directions. Strike the divine whip near its ears three times— Too hard, and its hair might break, Too soft, and its true abilities won’t show. Use just the right amount of force, If it has power, let it reveal itself today! This chestnut horse is truly remarkable, Its fierce eyes burn like those of a serpent, It holds the power to see in all directions. Strike the divine whip in front of its eyes three times— Too hard, and its hair might break, Too soft, and its true abilities won’t show. Use just the right amount of force, If it has power, let it reveal itself today! This chestnut horse is truly incredible, Its nose is like the nose of a snow lion, It holds the power to smell and distinguish all scents. Strike the divine whip near its nose three times— Too hard, and its hair might break, Too soft, and its true abilities won’t show. Use just the right amount of force, If it has power, let it reveal itself today! This chestnut horse is admired by everyone, Its tongue is as strong as a tiger’s, It holds the power to taste and discern all flavors. Strike the divine whip near its mouth three times— Too hard, and its hair might break, Too soft, and its true abilities won’t show. Use just the right amount of force, If it has power, let it reveal itself today! This chestnut horse is truly magnificent, It runs like the wind that unfurls a red flag, It holds the ability to sense everything around it. Strike the divine whip at its sides three times— Too hard, and its hair might break, Too soft, and its true abilities won’t show. Use just the right amount of force, If it has power, let it reveal itself today! This chestnut horse is a divine steed, Its heart resembles the radiant palace of the gods, It holds the wisdom of the Great Brahma. Strike the divine whip near its chest three times— Too hard, and its hair might break, Too soft, and its true abilities won’t show. Use just the right amount of force, If it has power, let it reveal itself today! This horse, made of the four great elements, was born to run, But mountains and obstacles block its path, Its ability to gallop has been hidden. Zumu now uses sacred methods to awaken its strength. This horse, with the wisdom of the Buddha, is divine, But the five poisons have clouded its mind, Its ability to discern has been concealed. Zumu now uses sacred words to reveal its wisdom. This horse, with immense compassion and divine power, is extraordinary, But dualistic thoughts have stained its clarity, Its ability to understand has been hidden. Zumu now uses sacred chants to awaken its true potential. The sound of drums echoes across the four directions, Without striking the drum, no sound will come. The divine whip awakens this steed, Revealing its potential for great deeds and achievements. This saddle, woven with the finest wool, Is a treasure from the dragon king Zonarinchen. The soul of the sheep resides in its center. Today, it is offered to your divine steed, Oh, noble Joru, May you ascend to the golden throne, And unite the world as its rightful king. This golden and silver saddle, carved with intricate designs, Was forged with gold at the front and silver at the back. It is a treasure of the sky gods, And holds the spirit of the horse within. Today, it is offered to your divine steed, Oh, noble Joru, May you conquer all demons, And bring blessings to the monks by spreading virtue. This golden bridle is unparalleled, Its gold is of the rarest quality. It is a treasure of the heavenly gods, And holds the spirit of the ox within. Today, it is offered to your divine steed, Oh, noble Joru, May you protect the sinful beings, And lead them out of the endless sea of suffering into paradise. This white conch stirrup, paired with silk ribbons, The dragon tendon girth, and the fine chest straps, Are treasures of the earth gods. Today, they are offered to your divine steed, Oh, noble Joru, May you achieve both martial and intellectual greatness, And bring prosperity to the people, making the nation strong. The bridle is as long as a black snake, The saddle is layered with nine thick layers of brocade, The felt pad is embroidered with eight auspicious symbols, All treasures cherished by humanity. Today, they are offered to your divine steed, Oh, noble Joru, May you protect the people and bring them peace, And rule Ling as its rightful king. This whip, made of fine rattan, Has a handle inlaid with precious gems, With silk ribbons from the sky goddess fluttering on its sheath. It is a treasure of the Jialuo family. Today, it is offered to your divine steed, Oh, noble Joru, May you abandon all ten evil deeds and uphold the law, And spread the ten virtues of the Buddha’s teaching. This long and pure white khata, Symbolizes long life and prosperity, It is a banner of power and a ribbon of fortune. This auspicious khata is presented to you, Oh, noble Joru, May you live as long as the endless khata, Remain untouched by disasters, pure and flawless, And transform the world into a peaceful and prosperous land. May your great achievements be celebrated far and wide. This divine steed is no ordinary horse, It was sent by the heavens to descend to the mortal realm, Born on the peak of Mount Meru. It was captured by Guomu and Zumu, And now it is yours, Joru, to ride across the land. Today, these treasures are offered to decorate your steed, A horse that will surpass all others in the race. Oh, noble Joru, May you inherit the wealth of the Jialuo family, And become the husband of Zumu. May this divine horse’s hooves spin like the wind, May it leave all other horses far behind, May you achieve first place and fulfill your heart’s desire! May your teachers and parents enjoy peace, And may all your wishes come true! This song is no ordinary blessing, Joru, please keep it in your heart forever." After Zhumu finished singing this hymn of praise for the horse, they equipped the fine steed with its saddle and tack, then presented a whip to Jue Ru with great respect. They also gave the whip a beautiful blessing before heading together to the horse racing field.

After Joru tamed the thousand-mile divine steed, Jiangga Peibu, the three of them immediately set off to return to their lodging. Zumu, after praising the divine horse, firmly believed that it would win the horse race and that Joru would undoubtedly become her husband. Because of this, she began treating Joru and Guomu like family, feeling assured that her future was secure. K i n g G e s a r of Tibet The Legend from ling King Gesar (about 1038-1119 AD) was a legendary Tibetan hero who was born in Dege County, Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. Later generations called him King Gesar of Ling. According to legend, King Gesar is also the incarnation of the Guru Rinpoche and his wisdom, compassion and power. Chapter 18: Testing Zumu's Affection with an Illusion, Confirming True Intentions to Grant the Saddle and Bridle for the Divine Horse Joru Tames the Horse and Teases Zumu After Joru tamed the thousand-mile divine steed, Jiangga Peibu, the three of them immediately set off to return to their lodging. Zumu, after praising the divine horse, firmly believed that it would win the horse race and that Joru would undoubtedly become her husband. Because of this, she began treating Joru and Guomu like family, feeling assured that her future was secure. The three should have returned home peacefully and without issue, but Joru suddenly thought about Zumu’s past relationship with the handsome youth of Jaga. This stirred irritation in his heart. Seeing Zumu’s cheerful and excited demeanor, Joru couldn’t help but feel the urge to test and tease her. Joru said to Zumu: "Although the thousand-mile horse has been captured, it hasn’t been fully trained yet, and it’s still without a saddle or bridle. If I ride it now, I could fall and die. If I die, wouldn’t that be your fault, Zumu? I think it’s better for my mother to lead the horse from behind while you and I go ahead. But if you ride your horse while I walk with a stick, I’m afraid I won’t be able to keep up with you!" Zumu trusted Joru completely and never suspected that he was teasing her. "Alright then," said Joru, as he casually mounted Zumu’s mule, Tromu. He rode ahead leisurely, swaying back and forth, while Zumu followed on foot without a single complaint. Joru’s Trick with the Demon Deer (Part 2) As they walked, a deer appeared on a nearby mountain, peeking at them. Pretending not to see it, Joru whispered to Zumu: "That creature is the demon deer, Pengla Ruoqiong, from the Yin Mountains. It’s eyeing us. Sing a song to distract it—it can understand songs. While it listens, I’ll use a rope to capture it." Zumu looked at the deer and noticed it was different from ordinary ones. Suspicion crept into her mind: "Could this be one of Joru’s tricks? How could there be a deer on such a mountain? Even if there is one, catching it shouldn’t be difficult. Why does he insist that I sing?" However, since Joru had asked, she couldn’t refuse. After a moment of thought, Zumu began to sing: "On the mountain path of the Yin Mountains, Stands a demon deer. It wants to leave but cannot, Joru has already set his sights on it. I, Zumu, think of its musk and venison." Before Zumu could finish her song, Joru had already lassoed the deer’s neck. However, the deer was surprisingly strong. It dragged Joru forward and charged straight at Zumu. The rope in Joru’s hand tangled around Zumu, and she struggled to free herself. Zumu Kills the Deer In desperation, Zumu grabbed a stone and struck the deer once. To her surprise, the deer collapsed instantly and died. Zumu was startled and couldn’t believe her eyes. She thought to herself: "How did such a large deer die from just one hit? How could I, a young woman, have the strength to kill it with a single blow? Seeing the deer dead, Joru became upset. He said, "Zumu, subduing this demon deer was my responsibility. Why did you kill it first? You even said you were thinking about its musk and meat. I didn’t expect such a beautiful woman to be so greedy and materialistic. The people of Ling Gabu clearly don’t know the real you. I’ll make sure to tell them about your flaws." Zumu Agrees to Joru’s Request "Joru, please don’t say such things. Killing the deer wasn’t my intention, but now that the demon deer is dead, what do you want me to do?" Zumu wasn’t afraid of hardship or death, but she feared losing her reputation. She thought, My good name has already spread across Ling. How can I allow Joru to ruin it by exposing my flaws? Joru noticed Zumu’s fear of losing her reputation and took advantage of the moment to make a request. "Well, in that case, if you agree to do something for me, I’ll keep this a secret." "Tell me," Zumu replied. "As long as it’s something I can do, I promise to agree." "This is a very simple matter for you," Joru said. "I need you to borrow two treasures from your father’s treasury. The first is the golden bridle, called ‘Wish-Fulfilling Jewel,’ and the second is the golden whip, called ‘May All Be Accomplished.’ These two items will perfectly equip the divine horse for the race." "Joru, I agree," Zumu said. She knew that taking these two beloved treasures from her father’s treasury wouldn’t be an easy task. However, for the sake of her reputation and Joru’s victory, she felt she had no choice. She believed her father would eventually agree. The two of them stopped speaking and continued walking in silence. When they reached a place near Magaling Lalonggongma, Joru suddenly began hitting Zumu’s mule, Tromu, with his stick for no apparent reason. Tromu, never having been subjected to such harsh treatment, panicked. The mule reared up on its hind legs, then bolted forward in a frenzy, quickly disappearing over a mountain pass and leaving Zumu far behind. Zumu’s Shock and Fear Zumu was heartbroken and distressed to see Joru beating her beloved mule, Tromu. She was about to stop him when the mule suddenly disappeared over the mountain pass, out of sight. Zumu ran as fast as she could to catch up. When she finally crossed the mountain pass, she was met with a horrifying sight that froze her in place. Joru’s head was lying next to a rock, staring wide-eyed at the sky. A short distance away, an arm, still clad in a robe sleeve, hung from a small tree. Not far from the tree, a booted leg was lying on the ground. Scattered across the area were Joru’s entrails—his flesh and organs were a bloody mess. The gruesome scene was unbearable to look at. Zumu had never seen such a horrifying sight in her life. She was so afraid of blood that she couldn’t even watch animals being slaughtered at home. Just moments ago, Joru had been alive, asking her for the bridle and whip, and now he was in pieces. What had happened? Zumu turned her head and saw that Tromu was standing nearby, covered in sweat. One of Joru’s legs was hanging from the stirrup. Terrified, Zumu looked around for Guomu, but there was no sign of her. Despite her fear, Zumu forced herself to remain calm. She collected Joru’s head, arm, and leg, and placed them together. However, no matter how much she tried to close Joru’s wide-open eyes, they wouldn’t shut. She remembered hearing from elders that people who die with unresolved matters are unable to close their eyes in death. "Joru," Zumu said, tears streaming down her face, "I know you couldn’t rest in peace because your great ambitions were unfulfilled. This is why you can’t close your eyes. It’s all my fault. I didn’t stay close enough to you. It’s my Tromu’s fault for running too fast. But why, Joru—why did you beat my poor Tromu so harshly?" Zumu’s Grief and Decision As Zumu carefully arranged Joru’s body, she couldn’t stop blaming herself. Joru’s unblinking eyes seemed to stare directly at her, as if accusing her. Zumu thought, People say that the dead shouldn’t be allowed to see the affairs of the living. I can’t let Joru’s open eyes follow him to the underworld. With no other choice, Zumu sprinkled a handful of ash into Joru’s eyes and used white stones to build a small grave for him. After burying Joru, Zumu knelt before the grave and began to cry uncontrollably. "Joru," she sobbed, "I, Zumu, thought that with the divine horse and its saddle and bridle, you would win the horse race and secure a future for me. Now I see that in this life, your great ambitions will never be fulfilled. Since you’ve passed away, what’s the point of me living in this world? Joru, if your spirit resides in the heavens, please wait for me. If we can’t be husband and wife in this life, we’ll reunite in the afterlife." Zumu Attempts to Sacrifice Herself After crying her heart out, Zumu mounted her mule, Tromu, and headed toward the poisonous waters of the Black Sea. When she reached the shore, she dismounted, clasped her hands together in prayer, and looked to the heavens. "May the heavens bless me, Zumu, and Joru’s soul, so that we may ascend together to the Pure Land of the West," she prayed. After finishing her prayer, Zumu prepared to leap into the turbulent black waters. The waves surged violently, roaring as though they wanted to swallow everything in their path. Zumu covered her eyes with her sleeve, squeezed her legs against Tromu’s sides, and urged the mule forward into the sea. But to her surprise, Tromu refused to leap forward. Instead, the mule backed away, as though something was pulling it away from the water. Zumu thought, Could it be that Tromu doesn’t want to follow me into death? Well, if that’s the case, I’ll let Tromu return by itself. At least it can take the news to Guomu. Zumu patted Tromu’s neck and said, "Tromu, my beloved mule. If you don’t wish to follow me, then return to Ling Mingbu. Now that Joru is dead, I, Zumu, no longer wish to live in this world. My heart and Joru’s are united, in life and in death. He has already gone ahead to the Pure Land, and I, Zumu, must follow him. My wish will be fulfilled, and though death is painful, it is also a blessing. Tromu, I hope you return safely, and I wish my father and mother health and happiness." Hearing Zumu’s heartfelt words, Tromu retreated even farther. Zumu, puzzled by the mule’s behavior, dismounted. When she looked back, she was shocked to see Joru standing behind Tromu, holding onto its tail. Zumu let out a startled cry and fell to the ground in disbelief. Realizing that this was all one of Joru’s tricks, Zumu couldn’t help but burst into laughter through her tears. Joru Teases Zumu Further Joru, seeing Zumu laugh, grinned mischievously and said, "Ah! What a fine Senzhang Zumu! There’s a saying: ‘The stag cries when it’s overwhelmed with joy, The owl laughs when it’s in unbearable pain, The old wolf worries about meat when it’s too full.’ “So, Senzhang Zumu, what about you? Are you laughing because your family is wealthy? Or is it because your power and privilege are too burdensome? If not, why were you trying to jump into the Black Sea? If you think dying is more peaceful, why were you so afraid that you covered your eyes? What’s the point of that? Covering your eyes doesn’t block out reality. "The people of Ling Gabu all know that you’re beautiful and kind-hearted, but do they know that you’re afraid of death? I should tell them everything about you." "You—you…!" Zumu stammered, unable to form a response. Joru continued teasing her. "I wasn’t even dead! Yet you filled my eyes with ash and buried me under stones. What was that about?" At first, Zumu didn’t want to respond, but when she heard Joru’s words, she became both angry and flustered. "Joru! How can you say such things? I acted out of good intentions, but now you’re accusing me of being heartless? I thought you were truly dead. I was shocked and scared, which is why I was so grief-stricken. How was I supposed to know that you were playing tricks and teasing me? How can you tell these things to the people of Ling Gabu?" Zumu’s Shame and Confession Joru, seeing Zumu’s reaction, continued teasing her. "It’s just in my nature to joke around and lighten the mood. Don’t take it so seriously. If you don’t want me to tell anyone, I won’t—but you’ll have to lend me two things!" "What do you want?" Zumu asked. "As long as I can do it, I’ll definitely lend it to you." "Of course," Joru replied. "I want the floral-patterned golden saddle from your family, and the square nine-section felt blanket. Only with these two items can I properly decorate my divine steed for the horse race." "Don’t worry, Joru," Zumu said confidently. "I will make sure you get them!" Zumu readily agreed. The two of them continued walking for a while until they reached the Seven Sand Hills, the very place where Zumu had once met with the Jaga minister, Berga. On one of the large stones nearby, there were still clear markings from that encounter. When Zumu saw the stone, her heart raced wildly. She hurriedly urged Joru to keep walking, but Joru insisted that he was tired and wanted to rest for a while. Zumu, unable to push him too hard, reluctantly sat with him, though her heart was filled with unease. Joru leaned against the stone in a casual manner, and his posture was identical to that of the handsome Jaga youth. Zumu’s face turned pale as she began to realize what was happening. Her cheeks flushed red, then turned pale again. She was filled with panic, but Joru seemed entirely unaffected. He appeared calm and even closed his eyes, as though he were about to fall asleep. Zumu, seeing his relaxed demeanor, was slightly relieved. Suddenly, a swarm of tailless rats appeared, squeaking and running around Zumu and Joru. The rats surrounded them, moving chaotically in all directions. One particularly large rat, with a white silk ribbon tied around its neck, stopped in front of them. The ribbon was the very one Zumu had once gifted to Minister Berga. The rat spoke: "I am Tunga Barimi, the Great Minister of the Tailless Rats. Today, I have come to meet Joru. This nine-knotted white silk ribbon was a gift from Zumu to Minister Berga, and it was tied with three vows. The minister gave it to me before he left and asked me to deliver a message to you, Joru." The rat cleared its throat and began to sing: "If you entrust all your wealth to a horse, One day, you’ll be left a beggar. If you give your heart entirely to a woman, One day, you’ll be doomed to loneliness. If you overly cherish the horses you raise, One day, they’ll kick you to the ground. If you love your children too much, One day, they’ll treat you as an enemy. If you hoard food and treasure excessively, One day, your life will be lost for it. If you believe too strongly in a woman’s chastity, One day, you’ll find yourself betrayed. Zumu, with beauty but no sense, Fluctuates like the weather—hot one day, cold the next. A woman like this, used as a wager, Will surely lead Joru astray." After finishing the song, the rat threw the white ribbon toward Joru and scurried into a nearby hole. The rest of the rats quickly disappeared along with it. Zumu’s Humble Plea and Joru’s Forgiveness Joru looked at Zumu’s pale face and, feeling triumphant, said, "Ah! I thought I knew the kind of person you were, but who would’ve guessed that you’d do something so scandalous? I’m sure that rat wasn’t lying. Let’s head home, and we’ll talk more about this there." With that, Joru tucked the white ribbon into his robe, stood up, and walked away. Zumu was so frightened and ashamed that she didn’t even have the strength to explain herself. She couldn’t think of any justification for her actions. Her mind was in complete turmoil, tangled like an unsolvable ball of thread. With no other choice, she silently followed behind Joru, leaving her fate entirely in his hands. As they continued walking, they approached the spot where Zumu had encountered the black figure and the black horse earlier. Suddenly, they heard the sound of a bee humming. The buzzing sound was soft and melodious, gradually becoming clearer. To Zumu’s surprise, the bee began to speak. "Joru," the bee said, "do you see the golden ring on that flower over there? That’s the ring Zumu gave to Pelri Nyima Khyentse as a keepsake. I stole it for you." Joru immediately walked over to the flower, picked up the ring, and held it up to the sunlight. The golden ring sparkled brightly in the light. "Ah," Joru said smugly, "it really is a Galo family ring. This golden ring would look better on your hand, Senzhang Zumu. But how could you simply give it away so easily?" Holding the ring, Joru walked straight to Zumu and held it up to her. "Zumu, isn’t this ring yours?" Zumu’s Shame and Confession Zumu was so ashamed that she didn’t have the strength to reply. She simply lowered her head in silence, unable to meet Joru’s gaze. Joru sighed dramatically and said, "You, the beautiful and renowned Senzhang Zumu, famous across all of Ling Gabu, have managed to create so many shameful incidents just on this short journey. Who knows how much more trouble you’ll stir up in your lifetime? I must report this to the Chief Minister and Jiacha and also tell your father. What kind of upbringing did he give you to make you so bold and reckless?" At that moment, everything became clear to Zumu. The black figure, the handsome youth, the tailless rats, and even the bee—all of them were transformations created to test her. She realized how shallow and naive she had been, unable to distinguish truth from illusion. Her actions, born of ignorance, had disappointed Joru deeply. Thinking of her past interactions with Minister Berga and her flirtatious behavior, Zumu was overcome with shame. Tears streamed down her face as she fell to her knees before Joru. "Joru, my most honorable and wise Joru," she pleaded, "please listen to my confession with compassion: 'To sin unknowingly is the nature of sentient beings. To sin knowingly is to stray from the Buddha’s teachings.' "In the past, I acted out of ignorance and made mistakes. Now I understand them, and I deeply regret my actions. "I was wrong to be captivated by the guest from Mayulongdo, Minister Berga. I was wrong to fail to distinguish truth from illusion in the rainbow of your transformations. I was wrong to let my restless heart and wild thoughts lead me astray. In my delusions, it was your bridle that kept me from falling. "My mind, like a wild elephant, ran rampant in the past. From now on, I vow to follow your heart unwaveringly. "I, Zumu, make this solemn pledge to you now and also offer my blessings: First, may your wisdom be as vast as the ocean. Second, may you never abandon or despise me. Third, may you display your power and ascend the throne as king. Fourth, may the people of Ling Gabu live in happiness and prosperity." Zumu’s Redemption and the Divine Horse’s Preparation Zumu, overwhelmed with shame, hung her head low, unable to respond to Joru. Her silence only seemed to encourage him, and he sighed dramatically. "You, the beautiful and renowned Senzhang Zumu, praised across all of Ling Gabu, have already caused so much scandal just on this short journey with me. Who knows how much more trouble you’ll stir up in your lifetime? I must report this to the Chief Minister, Jiacha, and your father. How has he raised you to become so bold and reckless?" At this moment, everything became clear to Zumu. The black figure, the handsome youth, the tailless rats, and even the bee—all of them were transformations created to test her. She realized how shallow and naive she had been, unable to distinguish truth from illusion. Her actions had disappointed Joru deeply. Thinking of her past with Minister Berga and her flirtatious behavior, Zumu became even more ashamed. Tears streamed down her face as she fell to her knees before Joru. "Joru," she pleaded, "O honorable and wise Joru, please listen to my confession with compassion: 'To sin unknowingly is the nature of sentient beings. To sin knowingly is to stray from the teachings of the Buddha.' "In my ignorance, I made many mistakes in the past. Today, I finally understand and deeply regret my actions. I was wrong to be captivated by the guest from Mayulongdo, Minister Berga. I was wrong to fail to distinguish between truth and illusion in the rainbow of your transformations. I was wrong to let my restless heart and wild thoughts lead me astray. In my delusions, it was your guidance, your bridle, that kept me from falling. "My mind, like a wild elephant, ran rampant in the past. From now on, I vow to follow your heart unwaveringly. I, Zumu, make this solemn pledge to you now and also offer my blessings: First, may your wisdom be as vast as the ocean. Second, may you never abandon or despise me. Third, may you display your power and ascend to the throne as king. Fourth, may the people of Ling Gabu live in happiness and peace." Joru, hearing Zumu’s heartfelt confession, was secretly pleased, but he maintained a calm demeanor. He said, "What you’ve said is not bad. Recognizing your mistakes and correcting them leads to true virtue. My heart, Joru’s heart, is free from illusions, and your heart, Zumu, is now free from errors. Errors and illusions must be clearly distinguished. Errors will vanish, just like a rainbow fades after the rain." Hearing these words, Zumu realized that Joru had forgiven her. Her heart filled with joy, and she became even more certain that Joru was her destined husband—there could be no other. At that moment, Guomu arrived, leading the thousand-mile divine steed, Jiangga Peibu. Seeing the divine horse, Zumu immediately thought of something. She turned to Joru with a smile and said, "You don’t need to say a word—I’ll make sure to get you the whip and bridle to complete the set for your divine horse." Joru couldn’t help but laugh, his face lighting up with joy. Zumu, too, smiled brightly, her face glowing like a blooming flower. Even Guomu, who didn’t quite understand what had just happened, couldn’t help but smile when she saw how happy Joru and Zumu looked.

After a long period of rest, Zumu finally recovered. She carefully thought about Joru’s request: K i n g G e s a r of Tibet The Legend from ling King Gesar (about 1038-1119 AD) was a legendary Tibetan hero who was born in Dege County, Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. Later generations called him King Gesar of Ling. According to legend, King Gesar is also the incarnation of the Guru Rinpoche and his wisdom, compassion and power. Chapter 17: "With Divine Help, the Thousand-Mile Steed Is Captured; Zumu's Witty Praise for Jang Gapeibu" Zumu Prepares to Catch the Divine Horse After a long period of rest, Zumu finally recovered. She carefully thought about Joru’s request: “If I don’t capture that horse, there seems to be no other way. Joru is a man of extraordinary abilities, and if he says such a horse exists, it might actually be real. As the saying goes, ‘If you don’t have treasures of your own, how can you find them in the mountains?’ But if it really does exist, it must be an extraordinary divine horse. What does it look like? If I don’t ask clearly and search blindly, wouldn’t that be a wasted effort?” So, Zumu composed a song to ask for the features of the wild horse: "Joru, the divine son, has given me this task, To capture a divine horse from the wild. But animals belong to their owners, And Guomu would never steal a horse. Wild mules cannot be ridden, Wild oxen cannot be tamed. How could I take another’s horse home, And feel shame riding it afterward? This horse is no mountain mule, This horse is not among the usual herds. It resembles a mule but is not a mule, Wandering freely in the wild lands. If it is a gift from the gods, It will naturally come to Joru’s hands. If it is a treasure of the dragon king, It will surely come to Guomu’s home. To find something, you need its name, To retrieve something lost, you need its features. What are the characteristics of this horse? What is its color and how can it be recognized? Please, Joru, tell me clearly, So I can fulfill your command." Joru replied with a smile, “Zumu, you’re right. Without knowing the horse’s features, you won’t be able to catch it.” He then sang a song, describing the origins of the horse and its current location: "My dear mother, who raised me, Beautiful and wise, oh Zumu, listen well! Fields, seeds, and rainwater, Must all come together to grow crops. Arrows, strong bows, and steady hands, Are all needed to defeat enemies. Joru, Guomu, and Zumu, Only together can we capture the divine horse. The horse’s homeland lies in the holy lands of Maza, On the sacred peaks of Bangle Mountain. It is my destined steed, born alongside me. Its father is Garbo, the divine stallion, Descended from the celestial horses of the east. Its mother is Mada Jormo, A mare born into the wild herds. Its body is not light red but deep crimson, Its fur glistens like polished gemstones, Its ears are tipped with eagle feathers, And its hooves have wind-like swirls. It stands out from all other horses, With nine unique features that you must remember: Its forehead resembles a falcon’s, Its neck looks like a weasel’s. Its face is like a goat’s, And its jaw is as delicate as a rabbit’s. Its eyes are like a frog's, And its pupils shine like a serpent’s. Its nose is soft like silk, And its ears are pointed, adorned with feathers. It has eighteen powerful tendons, And twenty strong joints. This horse is no ordinary creature. It can fly to the skies and speak human words. Among thousands of horses, none are like it. Only with the help of the gods and Guomu’s skills Can this divine horse be captured." Guomu and Zumu Capture the Divine Horse After listening to Joru’s explanation, Guomu and Zumu set out to capture the divine horse, with the assistance of heavenly gods, dragon deities, and protective spirits. When they arrived at the Mulanmu mountain pass, they gazed upon the Bangle Mountain slopes. Some wild horses roamed freely on the mountain peaks, while others grazed on the valley's lush grasslands. Looking closer, they spotted the extraordinary divine horse! It had a tail like jade, a mane as green as emeralds, and fur that shimmered like red rubies. Its coat sparkled with rainbow-like hues, and its hooves danced with an unceasing rhythm. From the front, it resembled a "Rigma," standing tall and proud. From behind, it looked like an eagle swooping down for its prey. Its legs were as agile as a fox’s, with patterns on its skin resembling the flowing movement of fish. Its powerful thighs were well-defined, and its chest resembled the delicate build of a songbird. Each of its four legs had a unique swirl of hair, and its proportions were perfectly balanced. The horse had thirteen distinct abilities, hidden like a gathering of eagles. Upon seeing the horse, Zumu turned to Guomu and sang: "Oh masters, gods, and protectors, I offer you my humble song. This here is the sacred Mulanmu pass, A place of great beauty and renown. Look toward the mountain ahead, Like a king seated upon a throne. The Chinese call it 'Dongqing Nian Nian,' And the Tibetans name it 'Bangle Mountain.' Clouds swirl around its peaks, Green grass covers its slopes, Flowers bloom brightly at its base, Competing in beauty and fragrance. This is where the divine horse resides, Hiding among the wild white-mouthed horses. It plays with hundreds of mares, Frolics with countless foals. Its tail and mane dance with the wind, Its fur shines with rainbow colors. Sometimes it appears, sometimes it vanishes, Creating illusions and countless mirages. Above, a majestic eagle spreads its wings, Behind it, a lion roars with pride, And in front, a tiger leaps fiercely. Its eyes, heart, and legs, Shoulders, cartilage, and ribs, Are as strong as a gathering of hawks. This is no ordinary horse; It has the power to fly to the heavens, And it understands human words. Among thousands of horses, None can compare to this divine creature. Its unique traits are etched in my mind, But capturing it will require the help of gods and protectors, And the skill of Guomu, my dear mother." Guomu Captures the Divine Horse Following Zumu's guidance, Guomu spotted the divine horse and was filled with joy. She thought to herself: "Capturing this divine horse will require more than just effort. Without the blessings of the gods, the power of the Three Jewels, and the karmic connections of past lives, it would be impossible for me to catch it. Since my son Joru said the horse is intelligent and can even speak human language, I should also sing about its connection to Joru while praying to the gods and the Three Jewels. Perhaps the horse will understand." With this in mind, Guomu sang a prayer in the auspicious six-tone melody: "At the crown chakra of supreme bliss, Sits the master, Padmasambhava, Along with the divine East Joro Garbo. Please, come quickly to help me, Guomu, And cast the celestial lasso to capture the divine horse. At the throat chakra of enjoyment, Sits the deity Hayagriva, Guiding beings with true prophecies. Please, come quickly to help me, Guomu, And cast the celestial lasso to capture the divine horse. At the heart chakra of Dharma, Sits the divine protector Nagasri Vichu. Please, come quickly to help me, Guomu, And cast the celestial lasso to capture the divine horse. At the navel chakra of transformation, Sits the countless formless dakinis, Along with the goddess Tara Viga. Please, come quickly to help me, Guomu, And cast the celestial lasso to capture the divine horse. At the secret chakra of bliss, Sit the many protective deities, Along with my own son, Joru. Please, come quickly to help me, Guomu, And cast the celestial lasso to capture the divine horse. Oh gods and protectors, lend me your strength. Together, let us catch this divine horse, And place the lasso's end in my hands." Then, Guomu turned her attention to the horse and continued singing: "Oh divine horse, listen carefully! I have a few words for you: A sharp arrow, sleek in its golden casing, Is a hero's adornment. But if it fails to strike the enemy, Its sharpness matters not. A brave and cherished son, Is regarded as a treasure in the world. But if he cannot protect his kin, His existence matters not. Lush green fields are adorned by crops, Making the land more beautiful. But if the harvest cannot be reaped, Blossoms matter not. A divine horse, like you, Adorns the mighty Mount Meru. But if you are not saddled and ridden, Your speed matters not." The Divine Horse's Song After finishing her song, Guomu stepped forward. The other wild horses scattered in all directions, but the divine horse stayed behind. It showed affection toward Guomu, looking joyful, and neighed loudly as it sang: "If you do not know this place, It is the famous sacred Bangle Mountain. If you do not know who I am, I am the messenger sent by the gods. The celestial spirits regard me as a treasure, And I am the one who determines the fate of all horses. I am the king of horses, Jang Gapeibu is my name. Guomu, listen carefully, I have a few words to say to you: Without taming wild beasts, They cannot become domestic animals. Without hard work and ambition, Dreams will vanish like bubbles. Without good fortune, wealth is hard to gain. Without karmic ties, children cannot grow. I, the king of horses, Spent three years in Nama Xiong, Three years in Kuruja, Three years in Yuzhi’e, And three years grazing on Bangle Mountain. For twelve springs, I have endured hardship. In summer, I had no shelter from rain. In winter, I had no blanket to keep warm, The howling winds pierced my bones. In spring, I had no food to fill my belly, I was hungry and miserable. Twelve long years I have waited, Longing for a saddle and bridle that never came. Twelve years have passed like flowing water, And no master has come to seek me. I have never been adorned with a fine saddle, Nor have I ever rested in a warm stable. My mouth has never tasted exquisite food, And all my hopes remain unfulfilled. I have never heard Joru’s name, Nor have I seen Guomu’s face. Now, I am old and weary, Unable to be trained or fulfill my destiny. If seeds are not sown in spring, How can crops be harvested in autumn? If cows are not fed in winter, How can butter be churned in spring? If horses are not trained in times of peace, Where will steeds be found in times of war? I cannot stay here to suffer, Nor will I roam the world to help mortals. If Joru does not regret losing me, I would rather return to the heavens. If you understand my song, it will sweeten your ears. If you do not, I have no regrets." After finishing its song, the divine horse prepared to take flight, spreading its wings like an eagle soaring into the sky. Realizing the urgency, Guomu focused all her attention on praying to the gods and spirits. From the clouds above, countless gods, dragon deities, and celestial spirits descended, as numerous as dust illuminated by sunlight. Leading them were Joru’s divine siblings—East Joro Garbo, Naga Vichu, and Tara Viga. They cast a celestial lasso around the horse’s neck and handed the other end to Guomu. The gods scattered auspicious flowers, created rainbows in the sky, and revealed countless miraculous signs. Guomu successfully captured the divine horse. Slowly, she descended the mountain, thinking: "This divine horse is truly extraordinary. It understands human emotions, Speaks human words, And has wings to soar through the heavens. No other horse in the Ling Kingdom can compare." Turning to Zumu, Guomu asked: "Oh Zumu, from the wealthy Jara family, Your family has thousands of fine horses, And every noble in Ling owns an exceptional steed. Have you ever seen a horse like this?" The Divine Horse's Escape and Song After Guomu finished her question, she was about to sing a song praising the divine horse. However, the horse's abilities had yet to be fully demonstrated, and it was not yet the right time for Zumu to offer her praise. Suddenly, the divine horse became frightened by the thought of being captured. With a powerful leap, it soared into the sky like an eagle spreading its wings. Guomu clung tightly to the horse’s neck, hanging on like an ornament. As the horse ascended higher into the air, the lands of Jara, Jaga, Persia, Tibet, Jiang, and the Demon Kingdom clearly appeared beneath their feet. At that moment, the divine horse neighed loudly and sang: "Oh gods of bliss residing within my body, Oh dakinis flowing through my veins, Oh Buddhas who guide my soul, Please watch over me, And help me fulfill my mission to benefit all beings! If you do not know this place, It is the celestial realm where birds soar freely. Look below at the beautiful lands! There lies the sacred Jaga Eagle Mountain, Like an eagle resting on the ground. There lies the holy Mount Emei of Jara, Like a great reclining elephant. There lies the sacred Wutai Mountain, Like the crown of five Buddhas. And there lies Mount Kailash, Like a crystal vase of enlightenment. These are the four sacred mountains of the southern continent, Majestic and revered by all. That place, where clouds shroud the peaks, Where day becomes as dark as night, Is the Muba Chuchu Mountain in the north. That mountain, where black braids sway like dancers, Is Jowo Langri Mountain in the far north. That fortress, sharp as a black iron stake, Is the Demon Stronghold of Sharulangmu City. It is also called Bangnaka Ruogu Jiao. It is where Joru will subdue demons, And where I, the divine horse, will benefit all beings. Please, Guomu, remember it well! If no one in Ling praises me, If Guomu does not sing my virtues, Then I cannot stay in the Ling Kingdom. I would rather return to the celestial heavens. If you understand my song, it brings sweetness to your ears. If you do not, I have no regrets." At that moment, the divine horse performed a miraculous act, transporting itself to the Five Peaks Mountain in the mainland, where Joru was already waiting. Guomu and Zumu Deliver the Divine Horse to Joru Joru lightly struck the divine horse three times with his whip. The horse swayed and dashed forward, ultimately flying back to the summit of Bangle Mountain. When Guomu landed on the ground, she was overjoyed to take hold of the horse and began leading it down the mountain. Seeing this, Zumu quickly exclaimed, "Guomu! Since we’ve already captured the horse, let’s hurry and deliver it to Joru. Once the horse is handed over, our mission will be complete." As they spoke, the two women led the horse toward Joru. However, before they could reach him, the horse broke free and ran directly toward Joru. Despite their efforts, neither Guomu nor Zumu could catch it again. Zumu, alarmed, shouted, "Joru! Joru! The horse is running away!" Joru, calm and composed, said to Guomu, "Mother, let go of the rope. This thousand-mile steed is destined to be with me. Today is the day of our fated reunion—it will not run away again." Guomu thought to herself, What my son says is true. Based on past experiences, I cannot capture this horse with my strength alone unless divine power intervenes. With this realization, she released the rope, letting it fall onto the horse’s back. The divine horse, upon seeing Joru, ran toward him with affection, like a child reuniting with its mother. Joru gently stroked the horse for a long while, took hold of the celestial lasso, and then turned to Zumu, saying: "Ah, Sister Sonam Zumu! Now the celestial thousand-mile horse is mine, and it’s time to head to the Ling Kingdom. In the past, my mother and I were unfamiliar with horses. But you, as a daughter of the wealthy Jara family and the owner of countless fine steeds, must be well-acquainted with the thirty steeds of the Ling brothers. Please examine this horse and tell me: Does it rank as superior, average, or inferior? Can it stand alongside the brothers’ steeds? What are the advantages of ordinary horses, and what unique traits does this one possess? Please share your thoughts." Zumu’s Song of Praise for the Divine Horse Zumu, born into wealth and the owner of nine herds of fine horses, naturally knew how to distinguish the qualities of horses. From a young age, she had learned from her father about the traits of excellent steeds. Thus, she began to describe the characteristics of ordinary horses and the unique traits of the divine horse, singing in the Nine Lions Six Variations Melody: "I pray sincerely to the Three Jewels, May my words today come true. Joru, son of Guomu, I have a few things to tell you. As Tibetans say: "If one does not understand the guru’s virtues, Worshiping is like smearing butter on a rock. If one does not comprehend the teachings, Chanting scriptures is no different from a parrot’s mimicry. If one does not know their origins, They are like a monkey lost in the forest. If one cannot distinguish treasure from stone, They are like a stranger lost on the road." Without understanding the traits of fine horses, One might mistakenly call an ordinary horse a steed. Good horses are divided into four types: Jining, Mukeng, Bodu, and Dowa. Among them, Dowa horses are the best when long-bodied. Bodu horses are excellent when sturdy. Mukeng horses are praised for their strong build. And Jining horses are admired for their lightness. The best Dowa horse is like the rising sun, Its four sides built as if perfectly aligned. The middle Dowa horse resembles a drawn string, Loose on the outside but tight within. The lowest Dowa horse is like an iron ox, Its body long but its skin thin. The appearance of a horse falls into three categories: A phoenix-shaped face is the finest, A goat-shaped face is average, And a deer-shaped face is inferior. The legs of a horse fall into three categories: Cow’s legs rank first, Deer legs come second, And goat legs are the least desirable. The teeth of horses fall into seven categories: First, like a wild mule’s teeth, wide and deep—this is the best. Second, like a white-faced yak’s teeth, slightly crooked. Third, like a sheep’s teeth, white and fine. These three types of teeth belong to the best horses. Fourth, like a tiger’s fangs, sharp and long. Fifth, like a camel’s teeth, drooping outward. Sixth, like a pig’s teeth, with rough bumps all over. These three types of teeth belong to inferior horses. Seventh, like a riding horse’s teeth, with narrow grooves—this is average. The quality of a horse’s coat falls into five categories: First, like a deer’s coat—coarse and long—this is the best. Second, like a tiger’s coat—short and strong. These two types of coats are ideal. Third, like a fox’s coat—soft and long. Fourth, like a bear’s coat—short and rough. These two types of coats are the worst. Fifth, like a donkey’s coat—neither soft nor strong. This is considered average. The hooves of horses fall into seven categories: First, hooves shaped like wooden bowls. Second, edges worn smooth like copper petals. Third, short, upright hooves resembling iron pig hooves. These three types of hooves belong to the best horses. Fourth, curled edges with no indentation in the center. Fifth, flat hooves with no heel. Sixth, hooves that are round and smooth with no edges. These three types of hooves are inferior. Seventh, hooves that are four-curved and three-straight—these are average. The structure of a horse’s bones and joints is critical: The topmost joint is the neck. A neck with round, evenly spaced vertebrae is excellent. The middle joint is the spine. A spine with three slightly curved segments is ideal. The lowest joint is the hoof. Short, thick hoof bones are considered superior. Behind the ears is the skull. A lower skull is better than a higher one. Behind the tail is the rump. A higher rump is better than a lower one. The calf should resemble the udder of a pregnant mare. A flatter shape is better than a protruding one. The top of the head should be straight and thick. A higher head is better than a lower one. The mane should flow like white silk. Longer is better than shorter. Upright manes resemble pillars reaching to the sky. Taller is better than shorter. The throat and neck should be stretched taut like a ribbon. A longer neck is more desirable than a shorter one. The collarbone should house small lungs, Smaller lungs are better than larger ones. The outer ribs should house the kidneys. Protruding ribs are better than sunken ones. Rounded ribs gathered beneath the chest are ideal. The abdomen should have symmetrical ribs. The lungs should be wide and spacious. The liver should be small and compact. The intestines should be thick and strong. The heart should be thin and light. These internal organs define a fine horse. A large head needs a crown. Large ears resemble a hat on the head. Small legs need shoes. Hooves should look like sturdy, well-fitted footwear. The first of the sixteen vertebrae Should be able to hold a liter of barley. The space between the eyes and ears should be hidden. The top of the head and the nose should be narrow. The mane should be neatly tucked between the shoulders. The four limbs should appear as though carved, Resembling four lambs standing apart. Now let me describe five types of swift horses: First, a hawk-chested, bull-shouldered horse, Which can herd a group of horses with a whip. Second, a horse with upright manes and a sharp snout, Which can lasso wild oxen even at night. Third, a horse with an arched waist and wide flanks, Which can crack a deer’s skull with its bite. Fourth, a rabbit-headed, round-nosed, buckwheat-eyed horse, Which can snatch a rabbit from the mountains. Fifth, a horse that leaps like a tiger or a rat, Which can chase the clouds and catch the moon, Racing faster than even the birds of the sky. Next, I’ll describe four types of long-distance horses: First, the ‘Jajang Wu Ba Paibo’ horse, Which can gallop a hundred miles without sweating. Second, the ‘Tongjang Zhu Gu Bai Xie’ horse, Which can travel a thousand miles tirelessly. Third, the ‘Chijang Ka Wa Gang Bo’ horse, Which can gallop ten thousand miles without fatigue. Fourth, the ‘Benza Chang Ba Ben Deng’ horse, Which can cover a hundred thousand miles with ease. This divine horse is unlike ordinary ones. On its head are seven animal-like features: First, the forehead of a yak. Second, the eye sockets of a frog. Third, the fierce eyes of a viper. Fourth, the snow-white nostrils of a lion. Fifth, the lips of a tiger. Sixth, a tuft of eagle feathers near the ears. Seventh, the lower jaw of a stag. These seven features make up the perfect steed. Additionally, every fine horse has eighteen tendons, Each unique and unlike those of ordinary horses. The tendons resemble the following: Like crows crossing necks, They are found on the horse’s forehead. Like a tiger’s embrace, They are found on the back of the head. Like a water-filled stomach, They are found on the cheeks. Like a fish swimming, They are found along the ribs. Like a jade dragon drilling through, They are found in the horse’s armpits. Like heaps of wool, They are found on the top of the head. Like a pig’s nest, They are found on the horse’s thighs. Like a bag of barley, They are found on its shinbones. Like a coiled thread, They are found on the inner thighs. Like a drum, They are found on the belly. Like thick fingers, They are found along the tail. This divine horse possesses every single one of these traits. It is perfect in every way. Its coat shines brighter than rubies. It races like a shooting star. It was born from the deity Hayagriva. Those who ride it will not fall into hell, But instead will ascend to the heavens. This horse is the very embodiment of liberation." Zumu's Continued Praise for the Divine Horse At this point, Zumu paused for a moment, thought deeply, and then continued singing: "To praise ordinary horses in such a way would not be right, This divine steed truly deserves such admiration. Oh, how happy I am! A thousand-mile horse, how miraculous! A divine steed from the heavens, praised by all. Among the thirty fine horses of the Ling Kingdom, There is Dongzan’s jade-hued Iron-Blue Horse, Said to have the strength of a great roc bird. But this ability is not so special, For it is merely an animal’s natural instinct. There is Chaxiang Danma’s ‘Divine Silver-Grey Steed,’ And Chaotong’s mount, the ‘Black-Tailed Jackal.’ These are said to understand human emotions and speak human language. While all praise them as extraordinary, It is not worth being amazed, For clever animals can also mimic speech. Yama Sendha’s ‘Thousand-Mountain Charger,’ Jiacha’s ‘White-Shouldered Phoenix Horse,’ And the Grand Chief’s ‘Mule-Headed Chestnut Steed’ Are all said to have the abilities of a thousand-mile horse. Yet, there is no need for astonishment. Their outward appearance and inner nature, Are no more than what ordinary animals possess. But your divine steed is truly exceptional. Though it has the body of an animal, Within it lies the heart of a Buddha. It was born from the deity Hayagriva. Seeing it ensures one will not fall into hell. Riding it will carry you to the heavens. Such an extraordinary divine steed, To see it today is truly rare. What I have witnessed firsthand is even more astonishing: It was captured by heavenly gods, dragon deities, and celestial spirits. The lasso used to capture it was a miraculous celestial rope. In the sky, it has wings to fly, On the ground, it has hooves to gallop. It is as gentle as a domesticated horse, Yet such a magnificent steed is hard to find in this world. When it flies, it spreads its wings through the nine heavens, Even a great roc cannot match its height. When it runs, it races as fast as the wind, No steed in the Ling Kingdom can compete with it. Joru, your red rabbit-like divine steed, Is truly a thousand-mile horse that chases the wind and rides the clouds. Now that the divine horse is in your hands, Joru, quickly return with me to the Ling Kingdom. Winning the horse race will be as easy as turning your hand. Your divine steed will certainly take first place. With this horse, Joru will undoubtedly ascend to the throne, And Zumu will always belong to you. Oh, divine steed! Every word of Zumu’s praise is true. Ling Gabu needs you, And my entire life depends on you! If you understand my song, you are truly fortunate. If you do not, I will not explain further. Joru, please remember this in your heart." The divine steed’s past karmic connection with Zumu made her praise perfectly fitting. After hearing her song, the divine steed felt deeply joyful. It stood obediently by Joru’s side, waiting for its master to mount its back. It was ready to carry Joru to victory in the horse race. Notes Lhagma: A type of giant sacred pillar.

The time and route for the horse race had been decided, and everyone in the Ling tribe now knew about it. But what about Joru, who had been exiled? Steward Wang constantly worried about Joru and his mother, Gyacha often dreamed of meeting his younger brother, and the people of Ling also hoped for their return. K i n g G e s a r of Tibet The Legend from ling King Gesar (about 1038-1119 AD) was a legendary Tibetan hero who was born in Dege County, Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. Later generations called him King Gesar of Ling. According to legend, King Gesar is also the incarnation of the Guru Rinpoche and his wisdom, compassion and power. Chapter 16: The Pearl Maiden Shows Gratitude and Searches for Joru and His Mother, The Divine Son Transforms to Test the Maiden's Hear The Search for Joru and His Mother Begins The time and route for the horse race had been decided, and everyone in the Ling tribe now knew about it. But what about Joru, who had been exiled? Steward Wang constantly worried about Joru and his mother, Gyacha often dreamed of meeting his younger brother, and the people of Ling also hoped for their return. Most importantly, Joru needed to know about the race so he could return, participate, and claim the throne. But who could be sent to deliver this message? Without the right person, Joru and his mother would never return. And if Joru didn’t come back, who could defeat Chao Tong and expose his scheme? The old steward was deeply troubled and couldn’t think of the right person to send. While he was racking his brain, Gyacha and Danma came to see him. The steward thought, “Perhaps they have an idea?” Indeed, Gyacha and Danma had come to offer a suggestion. They said that the only person who could successfully bring Joru and his mother back was Senjang Zumu, the Pearl Maiden. The steward’s eyes lit up with excitement. Why hadn’t he thought of this before? He immediately instructed Gyacha to go to the Jara family and explain the situation to Senjang Zumu. She must be persuaded to invite Joru back. A Plan to Bring Joru Home Gyacha and Danma arrived at the Jara family’s pasture and met Senjang Zumu and her father, Jara Dunba Jianzang. The father and daughter were already talking about the upcoming horse race. Dunba Jianzang said, “Joru and his mother were never in the wrong. They should never have been exiled from Ling. Now, at this critical moment, it is the right time for them to return.” Zumu’s thoughts wandered to the past, and she remembered the role she had played in Joru’s exile. She had once witnessed Joru transforming into a ferocious, man-eating figure and had reported it to Steward Wang. This led to the exile of Joru and his mother. Ever since then, Zumu had felt guilty, regretting her actions. She thought, “If I hadn’t reported what I saw, they would never have been banished. But what’s done is done—nothing can change the past.” She silently prayed, “Steward Wang, please send the right person to bring Joru and his mother back. If Joru doesn’t return, Chao Tong will win the race, and I will have no choice but to marry him. But Chao Tong is despicable—how can I marry such a man?” Zumu, the reincarnation of the White Tara Goddess, was noble, honest, clever, and brave. She was loyal and virtuous, with a strong sense of morality. She was admired throughout Ling for her beauty, intelligence, and kindness. Her slender figure was like a graceful bamboo, her face as radiant as the full moon, and her eyes as clear as crystal water. She was adorned with exquisite jewelry, including amber, turquoise, coral, and sapphire, and wore robes of fine silk trimmed with otter fur. Her every movement exuded grace and elegance, and she was regarded as a flawless gem. Zumu Sets Off for Joru and Faces Challenges Zumu’s hair was parted neatly on both sides, with a phoenix-shaped braid rising in the middle. To keep her thick hair in place, she wore rare amber on the right side, while turquoise and coral ornaments tied her small braids securely. Around her neck, she wore a dazzling cat’s-eye necklace adorned with red coral beads, green turquoise prayer beads, and a ruby-encrusted protection amulet. On her wrist were sapphire bracelets, and her fingers bore golden rings that shone like sunlight. She wore a cloak made of brocade trimmed with otter fur, and her silk boots were embroidered with three rainbows. Zumu’s natural beauty, enhanced by her luxurious attire and radiant jewelry, made her appear more stunning than ever. She outshone blooming lotuses, and even the sun and moon seemed dim in her presence. Her beauty was so captivating that even ascetics might feel desire, and even the King of Hell would submit to her. This is why the Ling tribe had chosen her as the prize for the horse race—her allure was undeniable. For the heroes of Ling, regardless of status or age, the desire to win Zumu far surpassed the desire for the throne or treasures. When Gyacha and Danma arrived, Zumu and her father, Jara Dunba Jianzang, warmly welcomed them. After hearing their purpose, Danma, fearing that Zumu might refuse, brought up the reason for Joru and his mother’s exile, which made Dunba lower his head in silence and left Zumu feeling ashamed. Sensing the awkwardness, Gyacha comforted them, saying: “There’s an old saying: ‘It’s better to give treasures to the river than to let them fall into the hands of enemies.’ At this critical moment in the fight for the throne, we must bring Joru back. He is a saintly warrior and will surely defeat Chao Tong and win the prize. Only then can the people of the Tibetan region be free from disaster, and only then will Zumu find peace of mind. Right now, only Zumu can bring Joru and his mother back—they will trust no one else.” Gyacha’s words made sense, and Dunba nodded repeatedly in agreement. Zumu, deeply moved, looked up at Gyacha and said: “Great hero of Ling, Gyacha, brother of Joru, do you know the pain in my heart? Since the day Joru was exiled, I have known no joy—only sorrow. Even the six holy remedies cannot cure the pain in my heart. If my journey can bring Joru back, I will risk my life to succeed.” Gyacha and Danma were surprised by Zumu’s immediate and heartfelt agreement. They were moved by her sincerity and devotion, and they blessed her, wishing her great success on her journey. The First Test of Zumu's Courage The next day, Zumu, like an angel, rode her beloved horse, Zhomichongru, bringing along the supplies and food she needed for the journey. Alone, she set off for the Mamei region. At the same time, Joru, who was living in Mamei, had a premonition that Zumu would be arriving. He said to his mother, Guomu: "Mother, today Senjang Zumu from the Jara family is coming to our house. I must go meet her." Before his mother could respond, Joru had already vanished. That day, as Zumu rode through the eastern valley of Sunrise Mountain, she found herself in a desolate wilderness. The vast expanse was eerily quiet, and there was no sign of human life. Suddenly, the sky darkened, and Zumu thought the weather was about to change. She urged her horse to move faster. Out of nowhere, a man dressed in black on a black horse appeared, as if he had flown from the heavens or risen from the earth. He held a black spear and blocked her path. The man said nothing but gazed intently at Zumu. He studied her beauty in detail: her delicate body was as graceful as a bamboo reed, her face glowed like the rising moon, her rosy cheeks looked as though they had been painted, and her large, watery eyes stared back at him in terror. Her long, glossy black hair was adorned with amber, turquoise, and coral ornaments. Around her neck hung a necklace of agate beads and a ruby-encrusted protection amulet. Her wrists sparkled with sapphire bracelets, and her fingers wore rings of gleaming gold. Her maroon robe, trimmed with otter fur, and her silk boots, embroidered with rainbow-like patterns, completed her stunning appearance. The man’s face was dark as coal, and his eyes bulged like copper bells. His fierce and terrifying expression made Zumu’s soul nearly leave her body. Yet, to her surprise, the man didn’t attack or say anything; he simply continued to stare at her. It was puzzling. Zumu steadied herself and was just about to speak when the man finally broke the silence: "If you don’t know this place, It is the Jewel Valley of Jiaqing. If you don’t know who I am, I am Bari Nima Genzan, renowned and feared. My left side is iron, my right side is copper, My arms are bronze, my body is steel, my head is gold. I eat the flesh of my enemies as food, Drink their blood as wine, Take their treasures as spoils of war. Whatever I say, I do, Mercy is a concept I do not know. Oh, beautiful maiden, Your figure is as graceful as a celestial goddess, Your adornments sparkle like stars. Wealth and beauty rarely come together, So why are they both found in you? Which noble family do you come from? Which clan is your husband’s? It seems we are destined to meet, Otherwise, why would fate bring us together here? Here are three paths for you to choose: The best option is to become my wife, And keep your precious jewelry with you. The second option is to become my lover, But you must leave your horse and ornaments behind. The worst option is to return home naked. These are your choices. Decide." Hearing these words, Zumu was certain she could not escape. She thought to herself, “How can a virtuous maiden become the wife of a bandit?” She resolved to die rather than submit. Oddly, this thought gave her courage, and she closed her eyes, waiting for the end. However, after some time, nothing happened. When she opened her eyes, the man was still staring at her, motionless. Zumu’s will to live rekindled, and she said to the bandit: "If you want my jewelry, you can have it. If you want my ornaments, take them. But my horse is not yours to take. I cannot be your lover, and I will never be your wife. If you are truly a man of honor, Please show mercy to a helpless woman. I have an important task to complete—I must bring Joru back." As she spoke, tears rolled down her cheeks. Bari Nima Genzan almost laughed out loud. He softened his tone, as though comforting a child, and said: "Alright, alright, I won’t take you away, beautiful maiden. However, you must deliver the treasures you promised me here on the morning of the seventh day. For now, I’ll let you go. But to prove your honesty, you must give me the gold ring on your hand." He then asked her: "You mentioned Joru in your song. Who is this Joru? Is he a beast, or perhaps just livestock?" Zumu replied: "He is a man. The people of Ling mock him, calling him names like 'Joru,' 'Rat-Eater,' 'Sniveling Brat,' and 'Crooked Neck.' He is peculiar—worship him as a god, and he becomes a demon; place him among demons, and he resents the gods. He rejoices when the rich starve and laughs when heroes are bitten by dogs. Though born of noble blood, the son of King Senlun, He has become a beggar by choice, abandoning his fortune. He fights mice for grass and eats ginseng fruit to survive. He is my mission; I am here to bring him back." She then removed her gold ring and handed it to Bari Nima Genzan, agreeing to meet him in the same place seven days later. They parted ways. Encounters with the Handsome Stranger Joru held the gold ring in his hand, thinking to himself: "This is the first meeting gift between me, the Great Lion King Gesar, and Queen Zumu. I must treasure it." Once the black-clad man and his black horse disappeared without a trace, Zumu continued her journey. The sky cleared, and the desolate wilderness vanished. In its place, she saw seven figures atop a sand hill known as the Seven Sand Mountains. After the fright she had just endured, Zumu was overjoyed to finally see people. She urged her horse forward, hoping to meet them. As she approached, she saw seven men and their horses resting. The leader of the group reclined leisurely against a large rock, while the others were busy unpacking supplies, boiling water, and preparing food. Zumu’s eyes fell upon the leader, and she froze in her tracks. He was the most handsome young man she had ever seen. His skin was smooth and fair like the flesh of a conch shell, his cheeks glowed as though brushed with rouge, and his attire was luxurious. His posture was dignified, and he sat there smiling pleasantly, as if he hadn’t noticed Zumu’s presence. Zumu’s heart was captivated by the sight of this beautiful youth. She forgot her purpose, her mission, and even herself. She stood there, staring at him with wide eyes, unable to move or speak. The young man, however, seemed completely oblivious to her. He played idly with a piece of dry grass in his hand and paid no attention to the renowned beauty of Ling who stood before him. After what felt like an eternity, Zumu snapped out of her trance. She felt a wave of humiliation unlike anything she had ever experienced. In this young man’s presence, she felt less significant than the piece of grass he held. Embarrassed, she turned her horse to leave. Just as she was about to go, the young man spoke: "If you don’t know who I am, I am Borga, a minister of Jiaga. I am passing through here on my way to Ling to propose marriage." Hearing these words, Zumu halted. "A marriage proposal? Who is this young man planning to marry?" Her heart raced, and her face flushed. This did not escape Borga’s notice. He said teasingly: "I’ve heard of Senjang Zumu’s beauty, And of Dunba Jianzang’s wealth. I wonder if the rumors are true, And if I might marry her." Hearing this, Zumu’s earlier feelings of inferiority vanished. She touched her coral hair ornament and golden amulet, thinking, "So my reputation has spread even to Jiaga! Even they know of Zumu of Ling. Thankfully, the bandit didn’t take my jewelry earlier—only my gold ring. But that’s no matter." She straightened her posture and lifted her head proudly, listening as the handsome minister continued: "An ideal woman is like a goddess, Blessed with fortune and longevity. An average woman is like the moon, Her favor waxing and waning with power. A lowly woman is like a sharp blade, Skilled in stirring conflict and hatred. An ideal woman is like a good medicine, Beneficial to all who know her. An average woman is like crystal, Her value depends on the circumstances. A lowly woman is like a poisonous flower, Deceitful and unfaithful to her partner. There are more women than grass on the mountains, But a true companion is rarer than gold. I don’t lack gold; I lack a soulmate. Oh, maiden, I have traveled far to this place. Oh, maiden, I don’t want Zumu—I only want you!" Zumu’s Joy and Sorrow Zumu felt both joy and sorrow. She was flattered that her beauty had captivated this proud prince, but she was also disheartened—"Are all men so fickle, falling for one woman after another? He doesn’t even know who I am, yet he’s ready to abandon Zumu for me. What a handsome yet unfaithful man!" Her sadness, however, was quickly overwhelmed by her pride. She could hardly contain herself. Though she tried to hide her delight, her eyes sparkled with affection. She felt proud of her beauty and thrilled by the young man’s admiration. Her restraint melted away, and she smiled openly, saying in a confident tone: "Atop the Seven Sand Mountains of Mamei, Stands a treasure of the white stone cliffs, Known as the magnificent spirit vulture With six full wings—that is me. Midway down the Seven Sand Mountains, Lies a treasure of the snowy peaks, Known as the majestic white lion With a lush green mane—that is me. At the base of the Seven Sand Mountains, Stands the treasure of Ling, Known as the radiant and graceful Zumu, Her youthful beauty gathered in one being—that is me. Swans live in the sacred Mapham Lake, And would never abandon their waters. Minister, if you long for Senjang Zumu, How could you let her go so easily? Zumu has become the prize of Ling’s horse race. Whoever has the swiftest steed may win her hand. If you cannot compete in the race, Even paving the ground with gold won’t win Zumu. Bamboo from the southern forests, Feathers of the white-headed vulture— Their strength depends on the glue binding them, And harmony makes them fit for a quiver. Clear water from the Tibetan highlands, Red flowers from Jiaga’s southern fields— Their fragrance depends on the temperature of the water, And harmony makes them a divine elixir. Minister Borga of Jiaga, If you wish to marry Zumu, You must come to Ling and compete in the horse race. Only the victor may claim me as his bride." Zumu Proves Her Identity After hearing Zumu’s words, the Jiaga minister seemed doubtful that this woman before him was truly the famous Senjang Zumu. He asked suspiciously, "A stranger’s face is unfamiliar. How will you prove that you are Zumu?" Zumu hesitated briefly, then brought out the longevity wine she had prepared for Joru. The bottle was sealed with the wax stamp of the Jara family, making it the perfect proof of her identity. The Jiaga minister saw the wine bottle and said, "I must taste this wine to believe you." To prove her words, Zumu opened the bottle without hesitation. She intended to pour a small amount into a cup for him to taste, but to her surprise, the wine seemed enchanted. It flowed straight into the Jiaga minister’s mouth, leaving not a single drop behind. Zumu was astonished. She had only meant for him to take a sip and then return the bottle, but now it was empty. Was this a sign from the heavens, blessing their union? A Test of Zumu’s Loyalty The Jiaga minister drank the wine, and his cheeks became rosier, his youthful glow even brighter. He looked more handsome than ever. Declaring his intentions, he said, "I must leave immediately to compete in the horse race. I will win—I am certain of it. But I don’t want the throne or wealth; I only want Zumu. Once I win her, I’ll bring her back to Jiaga. The Jiaga palace is far better than anything in Ling." Zumu was enchanted by this beautiful young man. She leaned close to him and whispered sweet words of love. To ensure they would never forget this moment, they carved a mark into a large rock nearby. The minister placed a crystal bracelet on Zumu’s wrist, and Zumu tied a white silk ribbon with nine knots as a keepsake for him. They promised to meet again at the horse race before reluctantly parting ways. What Zumu didn’t know was that the black bandit she had met earlier and the Jiaga minister she had just parted from were both Joru in disguise, testing her faithfulness. And she had fallen for it. Zumu's Shocking Encounter with Joru's Illusions Zumu crossed a small mountain, only to see another one of similar size ahead. What frightened her was the scene on the slope—countless burrows of tailless rats, and in front of each burrow sat a figure that looked exactly like Joru. Terrified by this bizarre sight, Zumu froze, unable to move forward. She hid behind a large boulder to collect herself. After a while, she peeked out and saw that all of Joru's duplicates had vanished. There was now only one Joru, busy skinning a large tailless rat. Gathering her courage, Zumu stepped out from behind the rock and shouted "Joru!" three times. Joru looked at her frightened expression and remembered her affectionate words to the Jiaga minister. He decided to punish her as a lesson. Pretending to mistake her for a ghost, he picked up a stone-throwing device and chanted: "Welcome to Mamei, Where tailless rats run wild. The land belongs to the rats, And the power to demons. Since Joru arrived here, He has ruled the fates of demons. Joru is the sworn enemy of rats, And all ghostly creatures are subdued. Ghost maiden, why have you come to Mamei? I'll knock out your teeth, Rip out your hair, And banish your soul beyond the mountains. Then you'll know Joru's power!" With that, Joru flung a handful of dirt at Zumu. Magically, her teeth fell out, her hair was torn away, and her head became bald and shiny like a brass bowl. Overwhelmed by pain and humiliation, Zumu collapsed onto the ground, crying bitterly. Joru ignored her and walked back home. He told his mother, Guomu, "Mother! Zumu has arrived at our home. She was surrounded by fierce ghosts and demons, but I’ve subdued them all. Now she’s crying by a large rock outside." In reality, Joru had performed this act to cleanse Zumu of any ill fortune and negative energy before welcoming her into their home. But Zumu had no idea and felt deeply wronged. Guomu’s Consolation and Joru’s Plan When Guomu heard that Zumu had arrived, her heart was filled with both joy and concern. Hearing that Zumu was crying, she rushed to her side and found her sobbing uncontrollably. Zumu recounted the hardships she had faced on her journey, including losing her teeth and hair because of Joru. Guomu looked at her pitiful state and felt sympathy for her. She scolded Joru in her heart while comforting Zumu: "My dear child, don’t be sad. Come with me to our home. My mischievous Joru loves to show off his powers. These small injuries are nothing to worry about! I’ll have him restore your beauty, and you’ll look even better than before." Guomu helped Zumu into their home. When Joru saw her, he pretended to be surprised and said: "Oh my! So it was Zumu who came! I thought it was a ghost. How silly of me! But since you’ve come, why didn’t you come straight to the house? Why were you shouting outside so loudly? If you didn’t want to see me, why did you come to Mamei at all? And if you had just said 'I am Zumu,’ none of this would’ve happened!" Zumu didn’t know whether to laugh or cry. She explained everything, including the command from the royal general to bring Joru and his mother back to Ling for the horse race. She said: "The king ordered General Jacha to find you and your mother to compete in the horse race and win the prize. I traveled all this way without fear of demons or hardship. But you mistook me for a ghost and made me look worse than one! How can I return to Ling now? How can I face anyone?" Hearing this, Joru chuckled to himself. "Return to Ling? She probably just doesn’t want to see that handsome Jiaga minister anymore," Joru Restores Zumu’s Beauty After hearing Zumu’s plea and seeing her pitiful state, Joru couldn’t bear to tease her further. He said seriously, “Restoring your beauty is not difficult, and I can even make you more beautiful than before. However, there’s one thing I need you to do for me first.” “Don’t just say one thing—even if it’s ten or a hundred, I’ll do it!” Zumu was desperate to rid herself of her ghostly appearance. Joru continued, “This task is not easy. I need to participate in the horse race, but I don’t have a suitable horse.” Zumu replied quickly, “That’s not an issue. Your father’s stables have a hundred fine horses. Just pick one!” Joru chuckled and said, “Among my father’s hundred horses, is there any that can rival Choton’s famous Jade Horse?” At this, Zumu hesitated. “Well… no…” Joru smiled. “The horse I need is not among my father’s herd. It’s a one-of-a-kind treasure, a divine steed neither tame nor truly wild. It resides in the herd of a hundred wild horses. Only my mother, Guomu, and you can capture it. No one else can.” Joru looked at Zumu with hopeful eyes and said, “So, I need your help.” Zumu, though not timid by nature, felt unsure of her abilities. “A wild horse… me… am I capable of this?” Joru reassured her, “You can do it! Horses can understand human words. If you can’t catch it, call out to my brothers, and they will use the Sun-and-Moon Divine Rope to help you.” Zumu nodded, though her heart was still uneasy. She agreed to help. With Zumu’s promise, Joru immediately began the ritual to restore her beauty. He entered a deep meditative state, clearing his mind of all distractions. Following ancient traditions for blessings and prosperity, he chanted a sacred song to summon the gods and bestow their blessings upon Zumu: "Oh gods of the thirty-three heavens, Come today to help me, Joru! My elder brother, the phoenix-headed god, Full of joy and laughter, Lives in the celestial realm. Gather the radiance of divine maidens, And grant Zumu unparalleled beauty! My younger brother, the dragon-bodied deity, In his crystal palace, Residing in the depths below, Bring forth the voices of dragon maidens, And grant Zumu a silver tongue! My sister, the eagle-feathered goddess, With her enchanting eyes, Dwelling in the space between heaven and earth, Bring fortune and blessings from all lands, And grant Zumu wisdom and grace! Divine protectors and guardians, Hear my call today. Let Zumu’s face shine brighter than the moon, Her beauty surpassing the lotus flower! Let her hair flow like black silk, And her voice echo like sweet melodies. Let her beauty conquer all who see her, And let her be the pride of Ling!" When Joru finished his chant, he gently touched Zumu’s head and face. Instantly, her hair grew back, thick and glossy like a raven’s feathers. Her teeth were restored, white and flawless. Her face became radiant like the moon, and she appeared even more beautiful than before. Guomu handed Zumu a mirror. Seeing her reflection, Zumu blushed and shyly covered her face, overwhelmed by her restored beauty. Zumu’s Final Trial in Joru’s Home After recovering from her initial shock, Zumu began to observe her surroundings. She noticed that Joru and his mother lived in a small tent patched together with rags. The inside of the tent was dirty and smelled unpleasant. Zumu felt extremely out of place and stood outside, hesitant to step inside. Joru noticed her reluctance. Without saying a word, he glanced up at the sky and summoned the Eight Dragon Kings. Thunder roared, lightning struck, and hailstones began to fall. The heavens and earth seemed to merge in chaos, and Zumu had no choice but to rush into the small tent for shelter. Once Zumu was inside, Joru stopped the storm and brought out food for her. He prepared a feast of tailless rat meat and ginseng fruit, ingredients blessed by divine forces. Zumu, exhausted from her long journey and the many trials she had endured, was starving. She didn’t bother to ask what kind of food it was. Without hesitation, she devoured everything Joru had set before her. In no time, the plates were empty. But soon after, her stomach began to churn uncomfortably. She vomited everything she had eaten, covering the tent with foul-smelling waste. Joru remained calm. Despite the mess, his actions had a deeper purpose. Through this ritual of purging and cleansing, Joru was preparing Zumu to become part of his life. From this day forward, the land around their home would prosper, and its people would thrive.

On the 10th day of the Tiger Month, as the sun crowned the mountains with gold, thirty heroes of Ling gathered in Darong at Chao Tong’s invitation. Among them were eight great heroes, seven warriors, and three generals, all accompanied by their respective entourages. Rows of fluttering banners and glimmering helmets created a majestic and awe-inspiring scene. K i n g G e s a r of Tibet The Legend from ling King Gesar (about 1038-1119 AD) was a legendary Tibetan hero who was born in Dege County, Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. Later generations called him King Gesar of Ling. According to legend, King Gesar is also the incarnation of the Guru Rinpoche and his wisdom, compassion and power. Chapter 15: Chao Tong Hosts a Grand Banquet to Plan the Horse Race, The People of Ling Make Good Wishes to Welcome Joru Heroes Gather for the Grand Banquet On the 10th day of the Tiger Month, as the sun crowned the mountains with gold, thirty heroes of Ling gathered in Darong at Chao Tong’s invitation. Among them were eight great heroes, seven warriors, and three generals, all accompanied by their respective entourages. Rows of fluttering banners and glimmering helmets created a majestic and awe-inspiring scene. Chao Tong’s loyal servant, Akui Tabasolang, carried out his master’s orders and addressed the gathered heroes. He announced that Chao Tong had received a prophecy from the Horse-Headed Deity and declared that a grand horse race would soon be held. He asked the guests whether the 15th day of the month would be a suitable date for the race. “What will the winner of the race receive?” asked Gyacha Xiega. “You haven’t understood yet? The prophecy is clear: the seven treasures of Ling, the throne, and Sangjang Zumu will all be the stakes for this horse race!” Akui Tabasolang replied confidently, shaking his head. Like his master, he firmly believed that the victory would undoubtedly belong to Darong’s Jade Horse. Once Chao Tong became the King of Ling, Akui imagined himself being promoted to a high-ranking position, though he wasn’t sure what title he might receive. To ensure everyone understood, Akui began singing: “An old proverb says: Many seek beautiful women, but few succeed. Many hope for bountiful harvests, but few are blessed. With arrows, horses, and dice, we compete, Many crave the prize, but few win. Sangjang Zumu is Ling’s beauty, The throne is Ling’s power, The seven treasures are Ling’s wealth. Only through swift horses can they be won. Whoever’s horse runs the fastest Will win and fulfill their desires. Heaven’s will and men’s hearts align, But if you lose, don’t despair.” The Guests Understand Chao Tong’s Intentions Gyacha, Senda, and the other brothers quickly understood Chao Tong’s intentions. He wanted to use the horse race as a legitimate and honorable way to claim Ling’s golden throne, secure the power to rule over Ling, and win the hand of the beautiful Sangjang Zumu. Although the guests understood Chao Tong’s motives, they were dissatisfied with his methods. However, they couldn’t openly refute his self-righteous arguments. Instead, they turned to the chief steward, Wang Rong Chachagen, to see how he would respond. The steward had been pondering how to counter Chao Tong’s scheme. Suddenly, he recalled a prophecy from the gods made to him over a decade ago: “At the age of twelve, a boy will win the stakes of a horse race, like the golden sun rising over the eastern mountains.” Remembering this prophecy, the old steward’s face lit up with a smile. He said: “Oh, Akui Tabasolang, you’re absolutely right. Winning the stakes of a horse race is the most honorable and fair way to claim the throne, treasures, and Sangjang Zumu. Everyone knows that Sangjang Zumu is extraordinarily beautiful, and the Jara family is incredibly wealthy—there’s no comparison. Let’s follow the prophecy and set them as the stakes for the horse race.” After a pause, he continued: “However, in the dead of winter, with snow covering the mountains and icy winds sweeping the valleys, holding a horse race now is dangerous. On frozen ground, heroes could fall off cliffs, and horses could injure themselves. I suggest postponing the race to a later date. For now, let’s invite everyone in Ling, regardless of status, to a grand feast on the 15th. We can discuss the details of the race during the banquet.” Preparations, the Grand Feast, and Chao Tong’s Hidden Agenda Gyacha understood the intention of Steward Wang Rong Chachagen. Delaying the date of the horse race was meant to give Joru enough time to be notified and prepare. Understanding this, Gyacha nodded in agreement. There were only five days left until the 15th day of the Tiger Month. Even so, Chao Tong felt the wait was too long. He wished the horse race could take place immediately, and he hated that the 15th would be spent discussing details at the banquet instead of holding the race. The sooner the horse race happened, the sooner he could ascend to the throne, claim the seven treasures, and marry Sangjang Zumu. In Chao Tong’s mind, these five days felt longer than five years. Restless and impatient, he spent these difficult days making arrangements. He worked tirelessly to ensure the banquet would be as grand and luxurious as possible, intending to display his wealth and cleverness. Chao Tong also harbored a secret thought, one he had never shared with anyone: through this banquet—essentially a preparatory meeting for the horse race—he hoped to gain the favor of the people. This, he believed, would make it easier to rule the Ling tribes once he became king. Finally, the 15th day of the Tiger Month arrived. The guests who came to the banquet were numerous, filling the area with life and energy. There were uncles and elders as dignified as Mount Sumeru, aunts and sisters-in-law as steady as a frozen sea, young men as sharp as bamboo arrows ready to be launched, and young women as beautiful as summer flowers. All of them crowded toward the grand tent of Darong. The scene was so lively that it overwhelmed the chief seating arranger, the Grand Arbiter Weimala. He was busy assigning seats according to the status of each guest within the Ling Kingdom. Standing in the center of the commotion, he sang to invite the guests to their seats: “Oh Sodog, deity of Machen Mountain, Gods, dragon spirits, and deities of blessings, Weimala, the Arbiter, calls for your aid today! This place, near the Darong Fortress, Is called Gongga Rewa, the gathering site. The great tent of Chixiong Guomu Is the hall where discussions will take place. If you do not know me, I am Weimala, the Arbiter. Today’s weather is full of joy and celebration. First joy: all brothers have gathered in harmony. Second joy: the prophecy brings auspicious blessings. Third joy: heroes discuss the horse race. Fourth joy: the Darong family hosts the feast. Fifth joy: a grand celebration is held. By my hand as Arbiter, I shall assign every seat.” On the silver chairs with silk cushions, the four noble sons shall sit: Gyacha Xiega Serpa Nipendaya Wenbu Arubasen Mujang Renqing Daru The noble sons are invited to take their seats in order. On the thick cushions in the center, covered with silk: Uncle Steward Wang The Wrathful King of Darong King Senlun Kama Langka Senxie Guru Jianzang Dunba Jianzang Garu Nima Jianzang Naru Taba Jianzang The four men named Jianzang are invited to take their seats, and all other uncles and elders are also invited to join. On the thick cushions on the right, covered with grass leopard-patterned hides: The Chief of Darong, Sipan Garde Qujiong Bena Dongqu Lubu Dapan Bala Senda Adong Chaxiang Danma Jiangcha Bagui Niancha Adan Dongzan Langdu Aban Guibo Nima Wuzhu The heroes are invited to take their seats in order. On the thick cushions on the left, covered with tiger-patterned hides: Miqin Jiewa Dongben Ceze Jiaben Segangmen Yuya Gongbu Serpa Buqiong Cangba Eru Dazong Eru Shencha Eru The three men named Eru are invited to take their seats, and all others are asked to sit according to their rank. On the thick cushions in the right corner, covered with leopard-patterned hides: Rongcha Lobu Lata Angqiong Yuye Meiduo Jialuo Buya Zhujie Jiao Aba Seda Wa Kongba Buye Jiacha Jiana Chief Sensen Wenbu Jiangchi Angqing Muba Xiega Jiangzha The brothers are invited to take their seats in order. On the thick cushions in the left corner, covered with white bear-patterned hides: Lingqin Daba Solang Aba Buye Ban Jue The impartial judge Dapan I, Weimala, the Arbiter The divine doctor Gongga Nima The fortune-teller Gunxie Tibu The astrologer Lawu Yangga The magician Kaqie Mima Family and friends are invited to take their seats in order. On the silk cushions in the back right: Sangjang Zumu of the Jara family Laichong Lugu Chaya The steward’s daughter Yuzhen Zhuoluo Baiga Nazhe Chaxiang’s daughter Zhenzhen Yata’s daughter Saicuo The daughter of Darong, Chao Mucuo The seven beauties of Ling are invited to take their seats first, and the other women of Ling are invited to sit in order. On the silk cushions in the back left: The Tibetan consort Zaxi Lacuo The Han consort Naga Zhuoma The Khare consort Sucuo The Pachin consort Gecuo The mothers and aunts are invited to take their seats. On the long, single-layered cushions: The young noble Michong Kade The servant Guoqu Baji Danyu Akui Tabasolang Qixie Buye Guru All are invited to take their seats in order of age. At the highest point of the white ceremonial tent, no invitation is needed; the master will find his own seat. “Today is a joyous feast, I invite everyone to sing a song. Welcome the beauties to dance a tune. Uncles and elders, let us discuss with joy. May the blue sky not envy this life. May the earth not resent this gathering. May Tibet not exaggerate this event into disaster.” Guests Feast and Chao Tong Sings His Hidden Agenda Once the Grand Arbiter had seated the prominent and wealthy individuals of Ling, the remaining guests were left to sit wherever they liked. People feasted on fruits, meats, and snacks that tasted like heavenly nectar, and drank wine and tea that flowed like rivers. After eating and drinking to their hearts’ content, the young men sang joyful songs while the young women danced gracefully to the music. As everyone enjoyed themselves, Chao Tong, the King of Darong, stood up and began explaining the purpose of the banquet. He recounted the prophecy delivered by the Horse-Headed Deity and the joy the upcoming horse race would bring. He then sang to the crowd: "Among thirty heroes, No matter how skilled, ranks must be set. Among the many tribes of Ling, The people need a chief to lead them. This horse race will settle it— The winner shall be king and lead the people. In my white tent, All are equal, regardless of status. From the noble sons to the poorest beggar, Everyone has the right to compete in the race, Everyone has a chance to claim the throne. How fast a horse runs Depends on the water and grass it has overnight. How strong a hero is Depends on his lifelong training. Whether the horse wins or loses Determines the rise or fall of one’s destiny. When should the race be held? Should the track be long or short? Let us discuss these matters, brothers!" Chao Tong, though hiding his ulterior motives, spoke with a honeyed tongue. He was eloquent, able to twist black into white, square into round, and death into life. His song made it seem as though he was advocating for fairness and equality, giving everyone an equal chance to win. The gathered heroes, not detecting any ill intent behind his words, began discussing as instructed. Steward Wang and Gyacha Advocate for Joru Steward Wang Rong Chachagen did not want to expose Chao Tong’s scheme because he believed in the prophecy given by the gods—that Joru would win the horse race. However, he noticed that in this grand gathering of Ling’s people, Joru and his mother were nowhere to be seen. If Joru wasn’t informed about the race, how could he win? Wouldn’t that allow Chao Tong’s plot to succeed? Thinking of this, Steward Wang stood up and said to everyone: “Judging from the movement of the stars in the sky, the seasonal changes on the earth, and the prophecy of the gods above, there is no reason not to hold this horse race. However, I suggest that every member of the Mubudong family, no matter whether they live in the upper or lower regions of Ling, must be informed. Otherwise, if someone later complains that they weren’t notified and demand a share of the stakes, it will cause unnecessary disputes. As the saying goes: ‘A foolish woman churns frozen milk in winter— She won’t get butter and will only freeze her hands. A foolish man races horses on frozen ground— He won’t flatten the earth and will only injure himself.’ Also, it is unreasonable to make the people of Ling travel great distances in the cold to watch the race—they may not say it aloud, but they will harbor resentment. Furthermore, in such conditions, even the best horses cannot perform well. In the warm months of May or June, when the grass is lush, it will not only be the best time for the race but also a joyful experience for everyone watching.” The steward’s implication was to delay the race and give Joru time to prepare and return. Gyacha Xiega understood this but felt it wasn’t appropriate for the steward to say it outright. So, Gyacha stood up and said: “This horse race, proposed by Uncle Chao Tong and approved by Steward Wang, is a major event. As the saying goes: ‘Though a leg of lamb is small, it still belongs to the sheep. Though a colt is small, it still belongs to the steed. Though a person is small, he is still his uncle’s nephew.’ The royal descendant of the Mubudong family—my younger brother, Steward Wang’s nephew, and the son of Mother Guomu—is still a part of Ling’s royal lineage. Though he has been exiled, he is still your nephew, Uncle Chao Tong. Guomu is the daughter of the Dragon King and the queen of King Senlun. She and her son are treasures of Ling. When the horse race determines the throne, treasures, and Sangjang Zumu, how can we not invite him? If Joru is not included, the people of my branch will refuse to participate in the race or compete for the stakes.” Joru’s Absence and Chao Tong’s Manipulations Gyacha continued, his voice filled with both passion and frustration: “Right now, my poor brother Joru lives in exile, far from his homeland. He has no wealth, no position, and no home to call his own. He shelters in caves, struggling to survive. He fights with dogs over bones and competes with chickens for scraps of grain. In his current state, how could he possibly dream of winning a horse race or claiming any prize? Yet, here we are, gathered for a feast as brothers, and not even the lowest seat has been reserved for him. Isn’t this going too far? Am I wrong to say so? Please, everyone, weigh my words in your hearts!” Hearing the words of Steward Wang and Gyacha, Chao Tong’s heart burned with anger. He thought to himself: “That wretched Joru! He’s nothing but a lowborn fool, unfit for the world. Even his mother, Guomu, was rotten to the core when she carried him in her womb. Yet, Steward Wang keeps fawning over him, and Gyacha won’t stop clamoring to have him brought back to participate in the race. But what’s the point? Joru lacks the cunning to win anything. That twelve-year-old brat couldn’t possibly claim victory in the race. Even if the prize were handed to him, he’d likely push it away with his tongue. And if, by some miracle, he won the race, he’d probably give away the throne, the treasures, and Sangjang Zumu to someone else. The people of his branch family overestimate him, and Dansa speaks of him as if he’s some divine figure. They’re mistaking brass for gold—Joru doesn’t even value himself.” Feigning agreement, Chao Tong said aloud: “Gyacha Xiega, you’re right. As the noble son of King Senlun and the blood relative of Guomu, Joru’s absence from this feast is indeed regrettable. But it’s not my fault he hasn’t been invited—it was your branch family’s responsibility to call him. Now, what’s most important is deciding the route and timing of the horse race.” The Race Route Debate and Settling Plans Chao Tong’s son, Dongzan Langdu Aban, could no longer keep quiet. He blurted out arrogantly: “If our Ling Kingdom’s horse race route is too short, we’ll be ridiculed. If the race isn’t grand enough, we’ll be shamed. To make this race famous across the world, the starting point should be at Jiaga and the finish line at Jiana.” The other brothers found Dongzan’s words boastful and ridiculous. Senda, from the middle branch, responded sarcastically: “Oh, if you want to hold a world-famous horse race, then the starting point should be in the sky, and the finish line in the depths of the sea. The stakes should be the sun and the moon, and the people of Ling should watch the race from the heavens.” The gathered brothers and people burst into laughter. Senda’s sharp wit was too much for Dongzan, whose face turned red with embarrassment. The veins on his neck bulged, but he had no response. Gyacha Xiega stepped in to calm the crowd. He proposed a practical plan that satisfied everyone and even saved Dongzan from further humiliation. Ultimately, the group agreed on Gyacha’s suggestion: The starting point of the race would be Ayudi Mountain. The finish line would be Gure Stone Mountain. Prayers and incense offerings would be held on the summit of Ludi Mountain. The people would gather on Radi Mountain to watch the race. The event would take place in summer when the weather was warm, and the grass was lush. Steward Wang, seeing that a general plan had been settled, worried that Chao Tong or other heroes might later go back on their word. To prevent this, he said: “For such an important matter, I fear it might stir discord among the brothers. Let us ask the Grand Arbiter and the impartial judge, Dapan, to sing a song of fair judgment to finalize the decision.” Arbiter Dapan’s Song of Justice At this moment, the Grand Arbiter had completed arranging the seating for the banquet. The impartial and highly respected judge, Dapan, understood that Steward Wang’s suggestion was directed at him. With a cheerful and melodic tone, he sang a song of judgment to finalize the decision: "First, we invite the celestial god Brahma, Second, we invite the wise deity King Gezhuo, Third, we invite Zouna Renqing, the Dragon King of the Seas, May they bless the people of Ling today! Though I, Dapan, serve as the mediator, Power is only granted by three conditions: First, blessings and authority determined by past lives, Second, fairness and integrity as steady as a ruler, Third, inheriting a role from father to son. This year’s horse race in Ling, All necessary conditions have been met: Gentle sunlight shines upon us, The earth is warm, and the air is moist, Dragons roar in the sky, Rain descends gently from the heavens. Green meadows are covered in blooming flowers, The summer season is perfect for the event. All the brothers of Ling will race, And Joru must not be excluded. We should send someone to invite him. Whether he wins the prize or not depends on his fate. This horse race in Ling will be a grand spectacle, A rare event in history. Such joyous news should be spread So the whole world can know. Let us see who will claim victory in the race, Holding the divine spear and arrow to win the prize. The seven treasures, not previously described in detail, Shall now be explained one by one: The golden throne that commands the three realms, The incomparable beauty, Sangjang Zumu, The seven treasures passed down by the Jara family, The twelve scrolls of the Jilong Sutra, The Dragon King’s black grand tent, The wooden fortress of Dazong, The twelve thousand households of Ling’s people. From the highest-ranking Steward Wang To the humblest beggar Gulu, Whoever has the skill may claim these prizes. This is the decision of the uncles and elders. The thirteen spiritual masters of Ling, Led by Gunga, Gejie, and Taben, Will pray to the gods for blessings. We will burn incense and worship the war gods. May the warhorses remain unharmed, May the brothers be free from insult or injury. The key points have been stated clearly, But let me leave a few reminders: Public virtue is like the crescent moon on the third night— Though not yet full, it will grow brighter and rounder. Private desires are like the full moon on the sixteenth night— Though round, it will inevitably wane and darken. Power is but an ornament of the world, Too precious to gamble in a horse race. Everyone wishes to keep it for themselves, But selfishness will only cause disputes. If Ling is divided by conflict, There will be no peace, And the horse race would be better left undone. Whether or not one wins depends on fate, Not on the speed of a beast. If one is not destined to rule, Even the fastest steed will fail. These words may seem unreasonable, But they are heartfelt truths, not mere jest. This year’s horse race in Ling, Is both the will of the heavens and the wish of the people. May the prophecy of the northern deity come true, May all desires be fulfilled! May the spiritual masters bestow their blessings, May the deities remove disasters! May the guardians protect great achievements, May the local spirits ensure peace and safety! May joy and fortune fill everyone’s hearts. My words are spoken with good intentions, Let the people of Ling remember them well!" Heroes Accept the Decision, but Hidden Thoughts Remain People always admire those who are fair and just, and this is an undeniable truth. After hearing Dapan’s judgment, all the heroes agreed that it was reasonable. They expressed their determination to follow the decision and happily returned to their respective tribes. As the saying goes, “A decision made by someone wearing a sheepskin cannot be overturned by someone wearing a tiger’s skin.” However, there were three individuals with their own private thoughts and hidden plans. First was Gyacha Xiega. While he didn’t desire the prize or the throne for himself, he worried that Dongzan might win the race and claim the stakes. He secretly resolved: “I must remain vigilant. As long as the courage of the heroes hasn’t completely dwindled, I cannot let Chao Tong’s scheme succeed.” Next was Chao Tong, the King of Darong. He was deeply worried: “If Joru returns to Ling, the consequences will be disastrous. I must do everything in my power to prevent Joru from joining the brothers in the race.” Finally, there was the poor beggar Joru. He was utterly destitute, worrying about his lack of fine clothing, treasures, or any means to participate in the race. Notes Burning Sang: "Sang" is a Tibetan term referring to sacrificial offerings, often made from juniper branches or aromatic shrubs. "Burning" is the verb, so "Burning Sang" means burning incense as an offering to deities.

As Gesar entered the demon land, the soul bird of the demon king Luzan also arrived, landing atop the Nine-Spired Fortress on Soul Mountain. The fortress shook with a loud noise. Hearing this, Luzan exclaimed, “What has happened to my mighty Soul Mountain?” K i n g G e s a r of Tibet The Legend from ling King Gesar (about 1038-1119 AD) was a legendary Tibetan hero who was born in Dege County, Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. Later generations called him King Gesar of Ling. According to legend, King Gesar is also the incarnation of the Guru Rinpoche and his wisdom, compassion and power. CHAPTER 29: THE CELESTIAL CRANE CARRIES OUT ITS MISSION TO CONFUSE THE SOUL-BINDING BIRD; MESA SPEAKS OF HER RESENTMENT AND POURS OUT HER INNER SUFFERING The Soul Birds and Meza’s Hope As Gesar entered the demon land, the soul bird of the demon king Luzan also arrived, landing atop the Nine-Spired Fortress on Soul Mountain. The fortress shook with a loud noise. Hearing this, Luzan exclaimed, “What has happened to my mighty Soul Mountain?” Queen Meza, who had been captured and brought to the demon land, spent every moment praying that one day Gesar would come to rescue her from misery. Any unusual occurrence in the demon kingdom gave her hope that her king had arrived. Seeing Luzan’s unease, Meza quickly poured him a large cup of wine and said sweetly, “Oh, my king, this is just the soul bird landing on the mountain. It is a sign of good fortune for us to grow old together.” Despite his suspicions, Luzan couldn’t resist Meza’s gentle persuasion. He allowed the soul bird to remain on the roof and stayed in the fortress to drink and celebrate with her. Soon, Meza’s own soul bird, the white crane, also arrived. Meza feared the demon bird might sense Gesar’s presence in the demon land and harm him. The white crane landed beside the demon bird on the mountain and began to speak: “Oh, Demon Bird King, have you arrived? Are you the soul bird of the demon king? I am the soul bird of Meza, the queen of Ling Gabu. We are kin—you are the nephew of the great Garuda, And I am the descendant of the white crane. Today, fate has brought us together. You are the vital bird of the demon king, Always ready to save him when called. I am the vital bird of Queen Meza, Here to tell her to forget the Lion King of Ling Gabu. The king of Ling is no longer in power— Chao Tong now rules Ling Gabu. That foolish son of the Dragon Girl is hunting rabbits In the desolate Yellow River plains, Doing nothing of importance. Let us, as loyal birds, protect our masters. Let us ensure their safety and accompany them On this Nine-Spired Soul Mountain. The demon kingdom is at peace, And we should each return to our homes. You to the western realm of Jaga, To the serene palace of the great ocean. And I to the crystal city of White Mountain in Ling Gabu.” The demon bird replied, “White crane, your words make sense. It’s true we are kin, and I am fortunate to meet you. I am the soul bird of Luzan. From his birth until now, I have come here three times. Each time I landed on this mountain, Luzan and his minions welcomed me with cheese and fresh water. Why is it that this time I am ignored? I foolishly believed the words of the yellow water duck, who said that the son of the Dragon Girl was coming to the demon land to take Luzan’s life. But it seems I worried for nothing. Since everything in the demon land is peaceful, let us part ways here.” The demon bird flew away without looking back. The white crane, reassured that the demon bird believed peace still reigned in the demon kingdom, also left, returning to Ling Gabu. The Reunion of Gesar and Meza At this moment, the five-headed demon Qin’en, carrying out the task Gesar had assigned to him, arrived at the Nine-Spired Palace of the demon city. There, he saw the demon king Luzan and Queen Meza sitting leisurely together. As soon as Luzan saw Qin’en, he asked, “Ah, my loyal minister! How is your health? Are the black and white livestock safe? Are all parts of the kingdom peaceful? Are there no enemies causing trouble?” Qin’en bowed respectfully to Luzan and Queen Meza before replying slowly, “Your Majesty, I humbly report that all is peaceful in the kingdom. No enemy dares to make trouble. Thanks to your protection, my health is excellent as well.” The demon king nodded but sniffed the air suspiciously. “My minister, I seem to smell the scent of a human. Did you bring it here?” Luzan, being an experienced demon king, immediately noticed something unusual. “How could that be?” Qin’en replied hurriedly, fearing further questioning. “Your Majesty, I tend to the sheep every day. Yesterday, a white sheep fell ill, so I slaughtered it. Perhaps some blood or the smell of mutton remains on me.” “Hmm, perhaps so,” Luzan said, half-believing him. “You’ve traveled far today. Sit and rest. I’ll go out for a patrol. Meza, keep our guest company for a while.” Saying this, Luzan left the room. Qin’en knew Luzan was still suspicious, but this gave him a chance to talk to Meza. “Ah, Queen Meza,” he said as soon as Luzan was gone, “yesterday, a merchant from Jaga passed by. He claimed to have come from Ling Gabu.” “Oh? What did he say?” Meza, who had been lounging indifferently, suddenly perked up at the mention of Ling Gabu. Qin’en noticed her excitement and thought to himself, Gesar’s journey was not in vain—his queen still longs for him. Pretending to speak casually, he said, “He said that Ling Gabu no longer has a king. Gesar has been dead for over a year.” “What?! What did you say?!” Meza’s composure shattered. Since being captured by Luzan, she had lived in luxury. Luzan, captivated by her beauty, neglected his other queens and spent all his time with her, indulging her every whim. Meza wore the finest clothes, ate the most delicious foods, and was treated with utmost care. However, there was one rule: she was forbidden to think about Ling Gabu or mention its name. Though surrounded by wealth, Meza secretly longed for her homeland and her king. Now, hearing that Gesar was dead, she could no longer hide her emotions. Seeing Meza’s distress, Qin’en softened his tone. “Perhaps I misheard, or the merchant misspoke. If you like, I can bring him here for you to question yourself.” “Fine,” Meza said. “Bring him to the rear palace. But make sure Luzan doesn’t find out.” “Understood,” Qin’en replied and left. When Qin’en returned to Gesar, the Lion King had finished eating meat, drinking wine, and preparing leather. Qin’en joyfully reported his conversation with Meza. Gesar immediately threw down the bone he was holding and followed Qin’en to meet his queen. Meanwhile, Meza was in turmoil. She had always hoped that her king would one day rescue her, but the thought that he might already be dead filled her with despair. If what the merchant says is true, I have no will to live. But if it’s a lie… I’ll have the five-headed demon eat him for spreading such nonsense! While Meza was lost in thought, Qin’en brought Gesar into her chamber. Loudly, Qin’en pretended to scold him, saying, “Jaga merchant, the queen has questions for you. You’d better tell the truth!” Then he bowed to Meza and left the room. Meza stared at the “Jaga merchant.” His face seemed familiar—too familiar. Gesar also gazed at Meza. Her beautiful headdress couldn’t hide her pale face, and her luxurious clothes couldn’t conceal her frail figure. She looked much thinner than she had when she was in Ling Gabu. Slowly, Gesar removed the merchant’s disguise, revealing his Lion King attire. Meza, in turn, removed her demon queen garments, leaving only a simple white dress. The two embraced tightly, and Meza began to cry softly. Gesar, too, shed tears. Suddenly, Meza pulled away and cried out, “Don’t deceive me, you old demon! You’ve transformed into Gesar to trick me again! I know Gesar has been dead for over a year. Today, I’ll end my life!” With that, she ran toward a pillar, intending to end her suffering. Gesar, quick as lightning, caught her and held her close. “Meza, my queen, what has happened to you? How could you not recognize me? I’ve crossed mountains and rivers, enduring countless hardships to find you, and you mistake me for the demon king!” “Are you truly the Lion King?” Meza asked, still doubtful. “Do you not believe me?” “Then answer this…” Meza began asking Gesar questions about the unique features of Ling Gabu. Gesar answered each one perfectly. Finally, Meza was convinced that the man before her was indeed her beloved Lion King. Overcome with emotion, she quickly removed the demon kingdom’s jewelry and clothes, changing into the attire of Ling Gabu. Only then did she dare to approach Gesar again, embracing him tightly and weeping bitterly.

K i n g G e s a r of Tibet Dana (Yapu) Monastery Dana Monastery is also called the "Ling Kingdom Monastery" because of its connection to the legendary Tibetan hero King Gesar. While many scholars believe Gesar is a mythical figure, people in the Yushu region firmly believe that Gesar was a historical figure and that he once lived in Dana Monastery. place that Connected with King Gesar Dana (Yapu) Monastery Dana Monastery is the only Yeba Kagyu monastery in Qinghai. The Yeba Kagyu tradition was founded by Yeshe Zhepa, a disciple of Phagmo Drupa. Later generations of followers honored him as "Sangye Yeba." In 1171, during the Southern Song Dynasty, Yeshe Zhepa built Yapu Monastery in the Kham region, which later became known as Yeba Monastery, giving rise to the Yeba Kagyu tradition. Dana Monastery is also called the "Ling Kingdom Monastery" because of its connection to the legendary Tibetan hero King Gesar. While many scholars believe Gesar is a mythical figure, people in the Yushu region firmly believe that Gesar was a historical figure and that he once lived in Dana Monastery. The monastery houses many relics said to belong to Gesar and his generals. King Gesar in The Epic of King Gesar was a follower of the Yeba Kagyu tradition. In the Yeba Hall, the lower right quarter is dedicated to Gesar and is called the Gesar Hall. In the center of its east wall stands a 9-meter-tall statue of King Gesar, flanked by statues of his generals, Jiben and Jacha, which are slightly smaller than the central Gesar statue. In front of the Gesar statue, there are swords said to belong to Gesar and Jacha. On the southern side, there are various belts said to belong to Gesar's queen, Zhuomo, including the most precious one made of conch shells. The walls display weapons, armor, and clothing believed to belong to Gesar and his 30 generals. There is also brocade khatas donated by the 9th and 10th Karmapas to the Gesar statue. On both sides of the west wall's door frame are sculptures of Queen Zhuomo and her sister Naichong, with the walls adorned with animal skins (tiger, leopard, bear, etc.) said to have been used by Jacha to transport tea from inland China. In another small chapel of the Yeba Hall, there is a "Papen" scripture believed to have been recited by Gesar himself. On Longbao Mountain, west of Dana Monastery, there are many stone formations at the peak, including stupas believed to be the burial sites of Gesar and his generals. These stupas are in the Gelug style and have Tibetan inscriptions in various colors, though many have become unreadable due to weathering and animal activity. Inside some stupas are small clay statues, usually in four colors: the largest are white, followed by light red, dark red, and the smallest are black. Each clay statue bears Sanskrit inscriptions similar to the six-syllable mantra. Unfortunately, most of the Gesar relics in the monastery were destroyed during the late 1960s to mid-1970s. Today, only a few items remain, including a felt hat, shield, helmet, fragments of armor, scripture pages said to belong to King Gesar, 30 small white conch shells from Queen Zhuomo's conch belt, and a few items from the generals Danma and Nang'e.

Chaotong, the Lord of Mayu, crossed the mountain and unexpectedly stumbled upon the Hor army, consisting of the twelve black-and-red divisions, training their forces. K i n g G e s a r of Tibet The Legend from ling King Gesar (about 1038-1119 AD) was a legendary Tibetan hero who was born in Dege County, Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. Later generations called him King Gesar of Ling. According to legend, King Gesar is also the incarnation of the Guru Rinpoche and his wisdom, compassion and power. Chapter 36 Using Illusions, Chao Tong Bravely Enters the Enemy Camp Three Times; Cowards, Fearing Death, Attempt to Rebel. Chaotong’s Encounter with the Hor Army Chaotong, the Lord of Mayu, crossed the mountain and unexpectedly stumbled upon the Hor army, consisting of the twelve black-and-red divisions, training their forces. On the right wing was the White Tent army, with white helmets and banners that seemed to blot out the sky. On the left wing was the Yellow Tent army, their yellow helmets and banners filling the heavens. In the center was the Black Tent army, with black helmets and banners stretching across the earth. Behind them were three Flower Tassel regiments from the Benba tribe, three Green Tassel regiments from the Riba tribe, three Iron Blue Feather regiments from the Garwa tribe, three Water Pattern Tiger Stripe regiments from the Nianjia tribe, and three White Cloth Leopard Tail regiments from the Gengga tribe. Additionally, the Chabao, Chaxiao, and Dunba tribes had nine white and black tassel regiments. At the front, the Sinba warriors led the Blood Tassel Regiment. They shot arrows that rained down like hail from the sky. Long banners fluttered in the wind, weapons filled the air, and men and horses covered the grasslands. The sight terrified Chaotong, leaving him trembling and speechless. He was so overwhelmed that he fainted on the spot. After a while, Chaotong regained consciousness and nervously spoke to his horse: “Oh, my black-maned bow-backed horse, look down there! The Hor twelve-division army is as numerous as the stars in the sky. There’s no way we can go any further. They look like they’re coming straight for us. Let’s hurry back home!” The horse replied calmly, “They are not coming this way. They’re just training their soldiers. Wait a bit, and everything will be fine.” After some time, all the Hor divisions returned to their camps. The ground grew quiet, with only wisps of smoke rising from the cooking fires. Chaotong, regaining a bit of confidence, said to his horse, “Perhaps they saw me, the great and furious Lord, and didn’t dare to advance any closer!” However, deep down, he thought: With so many soldiers, who knows what great things they could accomplish? How did Jiacha and Danma dare to charge into such a massive camp and come back with so many horses? They must have used some cunning tricks. The horse, sensing Chaotong’s cowardice, teased him, saying, “Back in Ling, you wore armor in front of your uncles and packed food in front of your aunts, boasting about your bravery. Now, if you can’t achieve anything, you’ll surely lose face. Even I, a mere animal, feel embarrassed for you. Aren’t you the one who was so good at pretending back in Ling—turning green stones into pine resin and yellow brass into real gold?” The horse’s half-mocking, half-encouraging words gave Chaotong an idea. Using his knowledge of illusions, he disguised himself as Jiacha, closed his eyes, and let his horse charge into the Hor camp. Though his heart pounded with fear, he managed to grab a small herd of horses and bring them back to Ling Gabu. Chaotong’s Deception and Capture At the Hor camp, Sinba Meruze immediately recognized Chaotong’s disguise as Jiacha. Remembering the words of the seer, he chose not to expose him. The other Hor leaders, however, were dumbfounded watching the “courageous Jiacha” return to attack again. Yet, none dared to send troops in pursuit, unsure of what to do. Chaotong drove the stolen horses to a valley and entrusted them to his own horses for safekeeping. Then, riding a fine chestnut horse he had just taken from the Hor camp, he disguised himself as King Gesar. He boldly rode to the Hor camp, thrust his whip diagonally into his saddle, crossed his legs atop the saddle, and sat in a meditative “vajra pose.” With a voice that shook the heavens, he shouted at the White Tent King: “You dare to oppose Ling Gabu? You dare to challenge me, King Gesar? You deserve punishment! I will drive away countless herds of your fine horses. If you wish to stop me, let the White Tent King come himself so we can discuss face-to-face whether the two nations should break apart entirely or if peace can still prevail. Think carefully, White Tent King!” The White Tent King, terrified by the imposing figure of the “King Gesar,” did not dare utter a word. He quietly whispered to his Black Tent and Yellow Tent brothers, “It seems we’ve encountered a great bandit today. Just stay quiet and let Gesar do whatever he wants.” Taking advantage of their fear, Chaotong managed to steal another herd of fine horses and added them to the ones he had already taken. At this point, his horse, the “Black-Tailed Jackal,” said to him, “It’s time to return to Ling Gabu. A wise man knows when to seize the moment and retreat. A prudent woman knows how to balance meals. A clever merchant knows when to close a deal. Let’s not overstay our welcome. We’ve gained enough; it’s time to go home.” But Chaotong, emboldened by his success, refused to stop. “How can I leave now?” he exclaimed. “Look at those Hor warriors—they’re terrified of Jiacha and Jue Ru, a couple of black-faced brats who eat tailless marmots and wear stolen calfskin coats. The White Tent King is so scared he won’t even step outside his tent! If I, the great Chaotong, step forward and roar like a tiger, I’ll scare him into fainting. If I can steal three herds of horses, as the saying goes, ‘When there’s oil on the surface of the bowl, there’s sure to be richness at the bottom.’ Not only will I have food and drink, but my reputation as a brave warrior will spread throughout Ling Gabu!” Despite his horse’s repeated attempts to dissuade him, Chaotong was determined. Left with no choice, the horse carried him back to the Hor camp. Chaotong’s Arrogance and Capture Chaotong arrived at the Hor camp, his eyes glowing red, his mouth twisted, and his face contorted. He began shouting boastful threats at the White Tent King: “Hey! Hey! White Tent King, Since the time of Hor’s King Tomo, The Hor and Ling nations have always been at peace. There has never been a war between us. But you young fools, Act recklessly, Like wild colts running aimlessly. Your red banners fill the battlefield. Are you chasing someone who killed your father? If not, then why are you running around like this? Is your Yellow Hor claw trying to grasp The sacred valleys of Ling? Let me tell you: With one swing of my blade or one arrow from my bow, I’ll take your head, White Tent King! I’ll make the waters of your Hor Wuji River flow backward, And your horses’ corpses fill the valleys. If I don’t turn your Achin grasslands into a wasteland, Then I, the Horse-Head King, have no power. Then I, the Lord of Mayu, am worth nothing! Do you hear me, White Tent King? Quickly offer tea and gifts, Lay down your saddles as offerings. If you don’t act now, Misfortune will soon come your way!” Chaotong’s Escape and Capture Upon seeing that the intruder was Chaotong, the Lord of Darong, the White Tent King was unimpressed. Chaotong’s reputation for cowardice was widely known, and the White Tent King thought to himself, If I feared even Chaotong, how could I call myself a hero? Five highly skilled Sinba warriors immediately armed themselves and rushed out from their respective camps. Faced with this formidable display, Chaotong’s earlier bravado vanished. He quickly turned his horse around and fled. As Meruze gave chase, Chaotong grew desperate. He threw away his helmet and armor, eventually abandoning his horse, and ran frantically into a ravine. He disappeared into a marmot hole, leaving only half a footprint behind. The Sinba warriors followed his tracks to the marmot hole. Peering inside, they saw Chaotong’s hair and beard trembling like blades of grass in the wind. His dirt-covered face revealed two glowing green eyes that flickered nervously. Drawing his golden blade, Meruze shouted, “Chaotong! How dare you compare your goat-like beard to the mane of a white lion? How dare you match the howl of a fox to the roar of a heavenly dragon? You’ve overestimated yourself! And now, you’re hiding in a hole? I’ll cut your body into pieces and cast your soul into hell! Is there anything you’d like me to tell your family before I end this?” Terrified by Meruze’s words, Chaotong crawled out of the hole on trembling knees. From his protective charm box, he took out five lengths of red silk khata scarves and a crystal reliquary with five peaks. Offering them as gifts, he kowtowed nine times to Meruze, as reverently as one would to a spiritual master. “Great Sinba, mighty as Mount Sumeru,” pleaded Chaotong, “even if you take my life, it won’t help Hor’s cause. Please spare me! I’ll surrender to the White Tent King and devote my entire being to Hor!” Chaotong’s Humiliation Before the White Tent King Meruze considered the situation. If I don’t kill this man today, who knows what kind of trouble he’ll cause when he meets the White Tent King? He raised his blade, ready to strike, but the other Sinba warriors began arriving at the scene. Realizing he couldn’t act impulsively, Meruze tied Chaotong up with a black rope, rolling him into a ball, and secured him to his “Black-Tailed Jackal” horse. They escorted him to the White Tent King’s camp. The White Tent King’s grand tent was a majestic sight. On either side, banners, ceremonial weapons, and musical instruments were displayed with grandeur. In the center of the tent, the White Tent King sat upon a golden throne. To his left and right, the Yellow Tent King and the Black Tent King sat on silver thrones. Behind them stood Sinba warriors, their red tassels fluttering in the wind. At the entrance, rows of armored soldiers held weapons, standing in solemn formation. At a distance of one arrow shot, Meruze untied Chaotong and placed him before the White Tent King. Chaotong, trembling like a leaf in the wind, offered a khata scarf and a golden reliquary and said, “Oh great White Tent King of Hor! I, the Lord of Mayu, Chaotong, surrender my life and all I possess to you. I bow to the White Tent King and devote myself to the Sinba warriors.” His teeth chattered, his body shook like a leaf, and he collapsed to the ground in terror. The White Tent King, disgusted by Chaotong’s cowardice, nevertheless saw him as a useful tool. Suppressing his contempt, he addressed Chaotong: “The Hor army will march to Ling Gabu. We will kill all the men, Destroy all the cities, Seize all the wealth, Take all the women, And spread our heroic deeds far and wide. Chaotong! Do you think my vision can be achieved? The thirty heroes of Ling Gabu— How strong are they, truly? The nephew of the Guo tribe, Gesar, Is said to have gone north to Yar Khang. What news is there of him now? I will raid Ling Gabu for treasure. I will capture the beautiful Zhumuo. Quickly, Chaotong, give me your best plan! You, Lord of Mayu, Chaotong, And I, White Tent Tiger-Hat King— The two of us are united in heart and mind. Before the gods, let us swear an oath: When Ling Gabu is conquered, I will be the Hor Achin King, And you will be the Eastern Mayu King. I will marry my daughter, Princess Gamucuo, To you as your queen. Between heaven and earth, We will stand like a tiger and a lion, side by side. When Gesar returns to Ling Gabu, We will face him together. Surely, we will destroy Jue Ru! Sinba Meruze, come quickly! Untie the black rope binding the Lord of Mayu, Chaotong. Let him sit on a flowered cushion. Bring him the finest yak meat, And the tenderest mutton ribs. Serve him strong tea and fine wine. Today, gaining Chaotong is like gaining Ling Gabu itself. In time, the plans of Yellow Hor will succeed. You will all see this soon enough!” Chaotong’s Continued Betrayal and Ling’s Growing Suspicion After the White Tent King completed his dramatic speech, the quick-handed Sinba warriors untied Chaotong and seated him on a luxurious leopard-skin cushion. They brought him fine wine, strong tea, and a platter piled high with yak and mutton. Shaken from his earlier ordeal, Chaotong greedily ate and drank, gradually regaining his composure. Once finished, he wiped the grease from his lips and began reporting to the White Tent King. He meticulously described the situation in Ling Gabu, detailing the strengths and weaknesses of its various tribes, and suggested strategies for an invasion. When Chaotong concluded, the White Tent King beamed with delight and said, “Everything you’ve said perfectly matches my vision. Once I conquer little Ling Gabu, your power, Chaotong, will be as vast as the sky. If you doubt me, just wait and see. I’ll now select fifty horses from the twelve Hor tribes for you. It’s no big deal—these animals will eventually return to their tribes anyway.” The two sealed their pact by making a blood oath. They drank hot blood and ate raw meat together, laughing and talking as if they were lifelong allies. Chaotong then revealed his plan: “Tomorrow, I will provoke the Chief Steward’s son, Ang’ou Yuda, into raiding a herd of horses. Let him steal them first, and then send two or three of your bravest Sinba warriors to pursue him. No matter what, they must take his head and strip his helmet tassel. Once this is done, the Chief Steward will feel as though a bucket of ice water has been poured over his heart. He will never again consider defending the cities. Within three years, Hor will achieve total victory. If this plan fails, and Ling’s merchants and farmers unite under the Chief Steward to fortify their strongholds, then even after nine years, Yellow Hor may lose countless soldiers and still fail to conquer them!” The White Tent King nodded enthusiastically, fully agreeing with Chaotong’s devious plan. To reward him, he sent Meruze to select horses for Chaotong. Meruze deliberately picked 300 of the worst horses—those with missing manes, broken tails, and sores on their backs—and gave them to Chaotong. As the sun began to set, Chaotong herded these horses back to Ling Gabu. Dansa’s Warning and Ling Gabu’s Growing Distrust The next morning, as sunlight spread across the land, Chaotong began distributing the horses among the tribes of Ling Gabu. However, he deliberately excluded the Chief Steward and Jiacha. His wife, Dansa, observed his actions and couldn’t hold back her criticism. “Lord Chaotong,” she said, “are these horses ones you truly captured yourself? Or were they simply given to you by others? Not a single one of them is fit for riding. If you distribute such poor horses to the people, it will only bring shame upon you and may even spark unnecessary disputes.” Chaotong, who had always found Dansa’s words irritating, became even more annoyed. He thought of the promises made by the White Tent King—power, wealth, and the hand of a beautiful princess. These thoughts deepened his resentment toward Dansa. “You foolish, filthy woman!” Chaotong snapped. “Nine thick ropes couldn’t tie you down, a full bucket of yogurt couldn’t satisfy you, and even double-wide doors couldn’t contain you! If there’s any gossip or trouble, it’s all because of your big mouth!” Ignoring her advice, Chaotong distributed the horses among the various tribes. As expected, his actions immediately aroused suspicion among the people of Ling Gabu.

K i n g G e s a r of Tibet Ronggo Monastery Located in the northwestern part of Dege County, near G215 between Dege County and Shiqu County, at an altitude of approximately 3,700 meters. It is about 90 kilometers from Dege County town. place that Connected with King Gesar Axu Grassland Although the leaders of Ling in Dokham have historically supported many monasteries, Ronggo Monastery has always been regarded as the most esteemed monastery of Lingtsang. This is because Ronggo Monastery was originally King Gesar’s palace, also known as the "Lion-Dragon-Tiger Palace" (Senjong Dazé). The location of the palace aligns with the descriptions in the epic of King Gesar. In Tibetan history, the Tertön master Chögyal Lingpa is renowned as an outstanding historian. His biography includes a story about him rebuilding the old palace of Lingtsang. At that time, Tertön Chögyal Lingpa believed that rebuilding the palace was crucial for maintaining world peace, despite some ministers thinking it would be a laborious and demanding task. Chögyal Lingpa identified the old palace at Ronggo Monastery as the "Lion-Dragon-Tiger Palace" built by King Gesar and emphasized its significance. Ultimately, the descendants of King Gesar followed Chögyal Lingpa's suggestion to rebuild the old palace. They resided there and regarded it as King Gesar's ancestral temple, preserving it and passing it down through generations. The "King Gesar Museum" at Lingtsang Ronggo Monastery currently holds a collection of precious historical artifacts. These include valuable relics from the descendants of King Gesar's family, such as items belonging to King Zanshan. Among them are imperial fabrics and brocade offered by Ming Dynasty emperors, which have been perfectly preserved, as well as ceremonial brocade used in the monastery. The museum also displays King Gesar's personal vajra (ritual weapon) and the invincible battle flag, both of which bear witness to the glorious history of the Lion-Dragon-Tiger Palace.