Saiyuki (最遊記)

| Episode 1 | Episode 2 | Episode 3 | Episode 4 | Episode 5 | Content |

 

Episode 1: Go to the West(はるかなる西へ)

 

In the land of Tengenkyo, the balance of peace and harmony between the humans and demons was going into chaos as an evil wave of energy was passing through land from another land named Tenjiku, located west of Tengenkyo. This evil wave had made the demons lost their humanity and started killing humans for pleasure…

 

In the monastery in Changan, the monks were scolding Son Goku for eating peaches dedicated to the goddess of Mercy, Kanzeonbosatsu. Genjo Sanzo appeared and roughly told Goku to pack up because they were going on a journey. Goku became excited and pestered Sanzo to tell him more. The irritated Sanzo took out a huge white fan and hit him. The other monks whispered among themselves and wondered why did Sanzo take in such a rascal. Sanzo sarcastically commented their gossiping and walked away. Like the monks, Sanzo himself also wondered his reason in taking Goku. He recalled first meeting Goku chained in a stone prison. Sanzo had heard Goku calling his name and decided to take him along with him. At that moment, Goku’s chains crumbled to dust.

At an inn, Sha Gojyo was happily gambling and surrounding himself with beautiful courtesans. His opponent was extremely upset at his loss, suddenly changed into a raging demon and attacked the courtesans. Gojyo stepped in and killed him very easily. Meanwhile, Cho Hakkai was driving his jeep into a forest and nearly crashed into a kid. Luckily, the jeep transformed into a tiny white dragon named Hakuryu, preventing a tragic accident. Hakkai asked the kid if he was all right but shock displayed on his face when he discovered that the kid was a demon. The demon kid tried to bite him but it had no effect on Hakkai. Looking closer, Hakkai could see more demon kids hiding in the darkness. After Hakuryu transformed into a jeep, Hakkai  (not wanting any trouble) quickly sped away.

Somewhere through the woods, Goku collapsed on the ground and started complaining about being hungry. Sanzo hit him with the paper fan again and roughly told him to continue moving. However, Goku insisted to rest and wanted to know why did Sanzo want to catch up with Gojyo and Hakkai. Reluctantly, Sanzo told Goku that the 3 Buddha (from Changan Shayosen palace) had summoned him to go the land of Tenjiku to find out the one causing the evil energy wave. They suspected that someone was trying to revive the demon, Gyumao (a demon who was killed and buried in Tenjiku by a god named Nataku Taishi 500 years ago) through the usage of science and magic. Since it was a taboo to combine science and magic, its results were unpredictable and would cause imbalances in both Heaven and Earth such as the evil energy wave. Therefore, Sanzo had to go the land of Tenjiku and restore the peace and harmony in Tengenkyo. After hearing this, Goku happily accepted the mission.  Sanzo sighed.

Suddenly, out of nowhere, demons attacked the duo. Both Goku and Sanzo fought (with the aid of their weapons: Goku’s 3 jointed Nyoi staff and Sanzo’s spirit handgun that could kill demons) rather stylishly. However, they were overwhelmed by numerous demons. Hakkai and Gojyo appeared and killed them off. Hakkai told Sanzo that they felt something was wrong because they (Hakkai, Gojyo and Goku) were the only ones who had not lost their humanity. The remaining demons saw the demonic control devices on Goku’s head & Hakkai’s left ear and became afraid.

While watching the trio fighting, Sanzo remembered asking the 3 Buddha their reasons for summoning Sanzo to bring Goku, Hakkai and Gojyo along. Though they had the demonic control devices, the demon blood was still strong in them and they may submit to it one day. However, the 3 Buddha replied that the trio was their best option and their past would create a bond between the foursome. Besides, Kanzeonbosatsu was the one who had given the order. Although Sanzo silently obeyed, he felt that he could trust himself. The 3 Buddha then told him to trust his eyes of the heart and reflect on what he should believe.

After all the demons had been killed, Sanzo told the trio that they were heading to the West.   top

***** 

 

Episode 2: First Game(黄泉への案内人)

 

The goddess of Mercy, Kanzeonbosatsu was told by her servant that the foursome (Sanzo, Goku, Hakkai and Gojyo) had already left for the West. She merely replied that their journey was destined 500 years ago…

 

During the journey to the nearest town, Goku and Gojyo were busily bickering among themselves, annoying Sanzo intensely while Hakkai remained to be the peacemaker. At an inn, Gooku and Gojyo started fighting among themselves for the food. Sanzo, very irritated, took out his white fan and started hitting them. Hakkai politely laughed and thanked the hostess, Houmei for the delicious food that she had cooked. Goku also thanked her. Changing subject, Sanzo asked the host, Houmei’s father about the demons in the town. He replied that the demons used to be peaceful inhabitants. Then for some unknown reason, they became violent and killed quite a number of people in the town. Houmei harshly said that all demons should die and quickly left, crying. Houmei’s father apologized and explained to the foursome that her childhood friend was one of those killed by the demons.

Later, Hakkai analyzed the situation that the humans distrust demons. So far, Hakkai, Goku and Gojyo were the only ones who had not lost their humanity due to their demonic control devices (except for Gojyo). Therefore, it would be best to leave as soon as possible. Then, they heard the sound of cutting wood. They turned around and see Goku chopping firewood for Houmei, who told him about her best childhood friend. She strongly felt that all demons should be killed. Goku was taken back and bluntly agreed with her. Afterwards, Goku joined the trio who warned him not to reveal his true identity. A few minutes, the foursome saw a group of travelers entering the inn, arousing Sanzo’s suspicion. He coldly told the other that though they had to stick together in case of demon attacks, he preferred to sleep by himself. The foursome then went into their individual rooms and sleep for the night.

At night, like Sanzo had anticipated, one of the travelers tried to kill Sanzo in his sleep. After the demon was pinned to the ground, Sanzo threatened to shoot him to death if he did not give the answers that he seek. The frightened demon replied that he was working for Kougaji (who was the son of Gyomao & Resetsugyo; 500years ago, after Gyumao was subdued, Kougaki was sealed in Botou Castle in Tenjiku). Sanzo demanded for more answers about Kougaji’s release. However, he was attacked from behind. It was done by a Spider demoness and she was carrying the unconscious Houmei in her arms.

Meanwhile, a girl entered Gojyo’s room and tried to seduce him. However, Gojyo had sensed her demonic presence and tossed her aside. He then ran into Hakkai’s room and found an unconscious assassin on the floor. The duo proceed on to Goku’s room where they also found another unconscious assassin and a sleepy Goku who though that it was time for breakfast.

Sanzo was held prisoner in a demonic dimension. The Spider demoness decided to kill him based on the legendary rumours that eating monk’s flesh would extend a demon’s life and preserved his youth.  Luckily for Sanzo, the trio ‘rescued’ him (including the unconscious Houmei). The Spider demoness’ subordinates appeared and attacked them. While the trio dealt with them, Sanzo gave a punch right into the Spider demoness’ face, who quickly transforms herself into a huge, ugly spider. At that moment, Houmei awaken and screamed in horror.

The Spider Demoness was suddenly shot in the eye unexpectedly by Houmei’s father, who was holding Sanzo’s handgun.  The Demoness screamed in pain and ate her subordinates to absorb their power that swiftly healed her injury. She then targeted on Houmei & her father. Goku stepped and shield them with his Nyoi staff. The demoness questioned Goku’s intentions to protect even though he was a demon himself. Houmei heard this and was very upset that Goku had deceived her. However, Goku replied that he didn’t care about protecting humans or demons because he liked Houmei’s cooking and wants to protect her. Sanzo instructed Gojyo to help Goku attack the demoness while Hakkai protect Houmei & her father. As for him, Sanzo recited and used the Sutras of Heaven & Earth to restrain the demoness, allowing Goku to gave the final deathblow.  

The next day, the foursome was preparing to leave. Goku was saddened about Houmei’s reaction in discovering the truth about his identity. To his surprise, Houmei appeared and gave him a bundle of lunchboxes, which Goku happily thanked her. While watching the foursome leaving, Houmei regretted not apologizing or thanking Goku. Her father replied that her lunchboxes had already represented them for her.

While on the road, Sanzo & Hakkai talked about Kougaji while Goku & Gojyo were fighting over the food. top

 

*****   

 

Episode 3: His god My god(神のいる場所)

 

In Heaven, a servant asked the goddess of Mercy, Kanzeonbosatsu on her intentions to send the foursome (Sanzo, Goku, Hakkai & Gojyo) to the West on foot. She replied that the journey would strengthened their powers and bonds. In her own opinion, it would be more interesting...

 

Due to the rocky terrain, the foursome was forced to travel on foot. After taking 1000 steps, the weary Goku demanded that to have another round of scissors-paper-stone (whoever loses will have to carry the baggage for the next 1000 steps). Not surprisingly, Goku lost for the 10th time (The reason behind it was because Goku kept on using scissors while the rest used stone. Plus, Goku had not realized his mistake).  The foursome then continued to a Buddha temple named Ganzan. Initially, the monks weren’t going to let them enter but when they saw Sanzo wearing the priestly robes similar to the late Komyo Sanzo, the Sutras of Heaven & Earth and the red Charka on his forehead, they quickly let the foursome in.

While the senior monks talked about Komyo Sanzo who had visited them 10 years ago, Hakkai explained to Gojyo that there were 5 Sutras of Heaven & Earth and those chosen to have them were known as ‘Sanzo’, which was the highest ranking title for any Buddha monk. Afterwards, the senior monks decided to let Sanzo stay for the night. However, they were uncertain about the trio and asked about their background. Sanzo merely replied that they were his servants (much to Goku & Gojyo’s protests).

After dinner, a little monk named Yo showed up and served them tea. Yo confessed his admiration to Sanzo whom he thought that he was the perfect role model for any monks. After Yo left, the trio burst into laughter.

Afterwards, the foursome were playing mahjong, drinking beer and smoking. Yo suddenly burst into the room and demanded to have these ‘unholy’ things removed. He tried scolding the trio for their behaviour but they couldn’t be bothered. Later, they asked Yo if the monks ever encountered a demon. Yo replied that the temple was a holy place protected by the power of Buddha. Therefore, no demon would ever dare come. Seeing the monk’s naivety, Hakkai gravely commented that they should leave as soon as possible.

Later, Sanzo was brought to see the senior monks while the trio was left to themselves. Goku was dreaming of meat while Gojyo was dreaming of cigarettes and women. Hakkai was amused by them. Suddenly, the trio felt a demon presence. Looking out from the window, they saw a demon appearing from a portal. His mission was to kill Genjo Sanzo. Within minutes, the monks were slaughtered like flies. Yo was there, watching the massacre in horror.

Meanwhile, the senior monks were requesting Sanzo to extend his stay at the temple. Sanzo harshly replied that the reason his master, the late Komyo Sanzo refused their offer 10 years ago was because of the Ganzan monks’ selfishness and self-righteousness.  While the senior monks showed their displeasure, a monk appeared and told them the terrifying news.

Yo was about to be the next victim if it weren’t for Hakkai, Gojyo & Goku who were criticizing the assassin continuously. (They had every right to do so since the assassin was completely lousy!) Sanzo appeared from behind and punched him. The assassin angrily said that it was so ironic that Sanzo was claimed to be a holy man even though he had killed thousands of demons. Sanzo used his Sutras of Heaven & Earth and shot the assassin dead.

Yo was completely shocked and felt that Sanzo had violated the rules of Buddhism by taking lives. Sanzo replied that Yo was wrong to feel this way since many of his own fellow monks were killed. If Yo wished to be closer to god, then he should die.

The next day, the foursome continued their journey. Yo showed up and requested Sanzo to teach him mahjong when he visit the Ganzan temple the next time. Sanzo promised that he would remember. Yo smiled and thanked Sanzo for enlightening him. top

 

*****   

 

Episode 4: Crimson(茜色の涙)

 

While traveling, Hakkai’s jeep drove over a stone that caused the foursome to crash into a river. Instantly, Goku & Gojyo argued over the incident. Sanzo became irritated and pushed them into the water. A girl (named Shunrei) was so happened to pass by & witnessed the foursome’s amusing antics. She uncontrollably burst into laughter. Then, she invited the foursome to her house…

 

Inside the house, Shunrei’s Aunt Pan pampered the foursome with food. She thanked them for making Shunrei smile since the departure of her boyfriend. It turned out that Shunrei’s boyfriend was a demon and he had left Shunrei some time before the day that the demons lost their humanity. Since then, Shunrei had been cleaning his clothes and room while waiting for his return. Though the foursome felt uncomfortable wearing Shunrei’s clothes (since theirs were still wet), Aunt Pan felt that Shunrei allowed them to use it because the foursome could have reminded her of her boyfriend, Jien. At the sound of the name, Gojyo gave a shocked look. Seeing this, Goku asked Gojyo if he was all right. Gojyo merely evaded the question and left.

While Shunrei was folding clothes, Gojyo asked her if she had a photo of Jien. Unfortunately, Shunrei didn’t have one. Upset, the crying Shunrei rebuked Gojyo’s thoughts about Jien. Though he was a demon, he was a kind and gentle person. Gojyo apologized and told her that he had no ill wishes against Jien. Then, he revealed to her his own identity.

In another room, Hakkai & Sanzo told Goku that Gojyo had an older stepbrother named Sha Jien. Though they both shared the same father (a demon), Gojyo’s mother was human while Jien’s mother was a demon. Furthermore, it was rumored that a half demon half human child would bring disaster upon his family.  

The next day, an old man told Aunt Pan about demons lurking in the forest. One of them was said to have silver hair. Shunrei heard this and immediately headed to the forest. Panicked, Aunt Pan awoken the foursome and begged them to bring Shunrei back. Gojyo prayed for Shunrei’s safety because he disliked women crying. The reason behind it was that the tears reminded him of stepmother who had brought him up. Whenever she looked at Gojyo, she would start crying. Gojyo felt that his appearance was a constant reminder of his father’s unfaithfulness towards her. Then one day, Gojyo’s stepmother decided to kill him. Though frightened, Gojyo closed his eyes & thought that it would be the best if he were dead. To his horror, when he opened his eyes, he saw Jien, standing over his dead stepmother’s body, crying. After that incident, Jien left without a trace.

Suddenly, a scream was heard. The foursome rushed over to the scene. While Goku & Gojyo attacked the demons, Sanzo & Hakkai stood watching. Surprisingly, the demons had no idea who Sanzo & the others were. So, the foursome decided to leave since the demons were probably low-class fighters. Still, Shunrei asked the demons if they knew a silver-haired demon named Jien. Goku smiled with relief at the words ‘silver hair’ (because Sha Jien doesn’t have silver hair). Sadly for Shunrei, the demons had no idea who Jien was. Heartbroken, she fainted.

The foursome decided to leave once more. Feeling insulted, the demons commented on Gojyo’s red hair and eyes (these are the signs of a half demon half human). Goku, Hakkai & Goku warned them to be careful with their words. The demons sneered & proceed on bragging about the humans that they had killed yesterday. Instantly, Gojyo had them off killed.

In the evening, Shunrei awoke only to find out that the foursome had already left. Aunt Pan told her that the foursome were going on a journey to the west where they will bring back the world to its normal state. Also, Gojyo promised her that Jien would return to Shunrei.

In Tenjiku, the mastermind of the revival of Gyumao, Gyokumen Koshu (one of Gyumao’s mistress) told Kougaji that she wanted the world in exchange of Gyumao’s revival. She also wished Kougaji would address her as his mother since his own mother was turned into stone by a spell. In another room, Kougaji punched his fist into the wall, swearing that he would do anything to set his mother free just as long as it would get rid of the arrogant Gyokumen Koshu. top

 

*****   

 

Episode 5: Pure Assassin(美しき暗殺者)

 

Kougaji was very angry over the loss of his fellow demons that were sent as assassins by Gyokunmen Koshu. While struggling with his hesitation to ally Gyokumen Koshu, Yaone offered to kill the foursome…

Yaone analyzed that the foursome would stop Yamatoya Restaurant for a rest. With her skill in medicine, poison, explosives and her disguise as a waitress, she would be able to mix poison in their food. Despite Kougaji’s warnings about the foursome’s unpredictable character, Yaone insisted to kill the foursome. The only problem she had was that her looks were attracting the perverts. One of them decided to sexually harass her. Out of nowhere, a flying ashtray hit right on the pervert’s head, knocking him unconscious. Yaone looked up and saw the foursome (especially Goku waving at her). While taking their orders, Yaone observed that the ashtray on their table was missing…

The foursome had a mini discussion about Kougaji’s assassins, knowing full well that demons don’t liked to be ordered around. In addition, they still no clue about who was the mastermind behind the revival of Gyumao.

Yaone appeared and placed their dishes on the table, hoping that they would die of the poison as quickly as possible. But she was sexually harassed again. Hakkai stepped in and rescued her. Angered, one of the perverts pushed their table over, spilling the food to the floor. Goku was immediately upset and started to beat them up (Gojyo joined him for the fun) while Sanzo & Hakkai stood by watching. Soon, the restaurant was in total chaos. Yaone slumped onto the floor, feeling very disappointed with herself. Hakkai quietly told her that she wasn’t the cause of the fight. It was just that they couldn’t stand women being sexually harassed.

Upon hearing this, Yaone remembered the day she first met Kougaji. Apparently, Yaone was supposed to one of the 100 Eye Demon’s women. Kougaji saw her and ordered that she should be left with him. He told her that 100 Eye Demon will eat his own women as soon as he gets bored with them. His reason for taking her in was not to save her but her skills in medicine had made her worthy enough to serve him.  Yaone remembered promising Kougaji that she would serve him forever. However, why was she hesitating to kill the foursome? After all, any enemy of Kougaji was hers as well.

The foursome finished their mini workout with the perverts. Then, a green mist covered the room. Hakkai sensed a drug in the mist & tried warning the others not to breathe in. However, they instantly lost conscious. Yaone removed the bangle (a demonic control device) on her arm and transformed into her demon form. Seeing Hakkai was still conscious, she attacked him. Unfortunately for her, Hakkai proved to be a better fighter than her. Desperate, she held a remote control, saying that she had planted a bomb in the restaurant. Strangely, nothing happened when she pressed the switch. It turned out that Hakkai had already found & deactivated the bomb some time ago.

Yaone slumped to the ground, and felt that she had disgraced Kougaji terribly. Then, she had an insane idea of committing suicide. Drawing a dagger close to her neck, Yaone had this uncanny resemblance of Hakkai (Gono)’s late wife, Kana, who had also committed suicide by stabbing herself with a dagger.  Hakkai rushed forward to stop her but was surrounded by red flames that flew up onto a rooftop. It turned out to be Kougaji (who had taken Yaone into his arms). Goku and Gojyo (who had recovered) had a futile mini fight with him. Still, the distraction had allowed Sanzo to sneak up from behind and had his gun aiming at Kougaji’s head. Kougaji replied that he wished to fight them someday at another location as the area was heavily populated with civilians. Sanzo agreed. After seeing them teleporting, Hakkai replied that at least they knew that Kougaji’s charismatic leadership was the cause of the demons’ loyalty to him.

At another place, Yaone apologized for her failure and wanted to pay for it with her life. Kougaji chided her and reminded her of the promise she had made to him. Under no circumstances, should she be allowed to die. Yaone nodded her head and promised to be with him till the day she died.

At an inn, Hakkai was looking out of the window, thinking. Sanzo appeared and told him if he wishes to pursue his revenge, then he should go. Hakkai replied that though he hadn’t forgotten about the day they met (which was 3 years ago), he felt that it was his destiny to be with them. Before he could say more, Goku & Gojyo burst into the room, demanding to be exchange places with Sanzo or Hakkai (because both of them refused to be in the same room together). Feeling very annoyed, Sanzo scold them while Hakkai playfully teased Sanzo playing the role of a father

*****   

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Season 1

| Episode 6 - 10 | Episode 11 - 15 | Episode 16 - 20 | Episode 21 - 26

Season 2

| Episode 27 - 30 | Episode 31 - 35 | Episode 36 - 40 | Episode 41 - 45 |Episode 46 - 50|