The Journal of Guilin—The Dragon King Emerges from Waters

Chapter one

On a midsummer afternoon, as clouds spread across the sky, the Lingui County (now Guilin City) which was a jurisdiction of Guilin State ,Lingnan Prefecture in Tang Dynasty was enveloped in a somber atmosphere. The Li River flowed with sandy stones and bamboo swayed gently, creating a sea of trees that danced with the wind. As the breeze brushed against Liao Tiehu's dark face in Lilong Village, he glanced at the sky and urgently asked his brother Liao Tongniu to row their bamboo raft from the heart of the river towards the dock. Barefooted, they hurriedly ran ashore just as raindrops began to fall from above like countless glimmering swords, causing osmanthus tree branches to scatter on the ground and piercing through red soil and yellow mud fragments. The muddy streams flowed relentlessly into the river, resembling rivers merging into an expansive sea.

The pebbles in the riverbed are readily discernible on a sunny day.However,In the span of a meal, the crystalline water transforms into a majestic "Yellow River," its once tranquil waves now turbid and swirling like a golden ribbon gracefully winding around the towering peaks.

In the Guilin region such unstable and changing climate is a familiar sight. The 22-year-old Liao Tiehu stood tall like an unwavering iron tower upon the wharf, adorned with a bamboo hat and straw cloak that danced gracefully in the wind. Meanwhile, the 11-year-old Liao Tongniu idly extended his palm to capture each water droplet which cascaded from bamboo hat, meticulously counting them one by one: "One, two, three..." As he counted up to number 264, the tempest gradually transformed into a gentle drizzle; The clouds shifted from light ink to a dense, opaque shade, with thunder and lightning persisting.

The Tiehu warrior firmly gripped the hilt of the transverse blade with one hand, while his other hand cautiously brushed against the gourd hanging from his waist, surveying the river flowing upstream.He anxiously awaited the arrival of the majestic dragon boat, a magnificent vessel known as "Jinjiao Daqinglong". Hailing from Bahuzhou Village, which holds utmost significance among the 28 villages of dragon boats in Lingnan District.Today was a day that the Bahuzhou Dragon fleet embarked on a crusade against the demon snake.

The world of Guilin has been plagued by troubles for an extended period of time. In early April, an armed rebellion broke out in Lingnan, leading to the deployment of Guilin State troops to assist the governor and leaving the city deserted. Subsequently, a colossal bicephalous demon serpent suddenly emerged in the river, relentlessly preying on passing vessels. This alarming development caused great distress among merchants who refrained from navigating through this waterway, resulting in a scarcity of sails and worsening living conditions for city dwellers.

The villages on both sides of the Li River had also encountered crocodiles, boa constrictors, and other wild beasts before. In an effort to suppress the snakes, they sang "Fangbing" and organized dragon fleets. However, the elusive snake proved too difficult for the dragon fleets to conquer. Determined not to be defeated, Bahuzhou Village sent their “Jinjiao Daqinglong”boat to fight against the snakes and took vows—“The serpent not be slain, never to come back.”

Chapter Two

The Liao brothers were instructed to the village headman's command, eagerly anticipating the triumphant return of Bahuzhou's majestic dragon fleet. As both Lilong and Bahuzhou pay homage to the revered temple of the East China Emperor, these two villages are bound together as brethren under the auspices of the mighty dragon.

Tieniu, filled with impatience, eagerly burst into song with a beloved nursery rhyme in the village:

- Guilin people, love dragon boat, January to the Dragon Boat Festival.

- Holding weapons and the crossbow, the dragon boat people is the bravest.

- Drag dragon boat, for the race, meet the enemy is not afraid.

- Against the front, Abandon the head, And dance when become the King……

Tiehu cut in, saying, "Hey bro, calm down，your song is full of hostility It's not cool to just randomly kill someone. Sing some softer song."

The dragon boat custom in Guilin during the Tang Dynasty was distinct from other regions. The boatmen often carried weapons on board, and if they encountered enemies, they would engage in combat until one side emerged victorious. After the An Lushan Rebellion, the central government was no longer strong ,so a lot of deposed officials were appointed to Gulin State, and they could not manage these stubborn people of Guilin.

"Alright, bro," the Tieniu thought, and as he paddled in the water and started singing:

- Lilong Village, four dragons, has an imposing manner and militant bearing.

- Bahuzhou Village, Three Green Dragon, brothers with one heart for glory and disgrace.

- Bai Shiqiao, the old yellow dragon, is a man of high moral character and high prestige.

- .. beat the snake, kill the snake, picked the snake skin and made a soup to drink.

The Teihu couldn't help but chuckle and said, "My dear brother, why did you alter the words?"

"Because it's a blast!" the Tieniu held the Tiehu's pant leg and said. "Hey bro, when we can board dragon boat ?"

"Tell me something else."

"Brother, they all say I am the son of coffin makers and full of a lot of bad luck. They believe the Dragon God will keep away from me. Is it really true?"

The Tiehu's face showed disappointment, unsure of what to say. Due to this so-called taboo, Tiehu didn't get the chance to become the boatman who on the dragon boat this year. The only thing he could do now is bring his brother to wait the dragon boat which come from other village at the riverside.

After a long silence, the Tiehu has to trun subject and asked his small brother: "Brother, have you learnt the Dragon Boat etiquette?"

"I got all the items down."

“Could you recite a particular piece?”

“Which period”?

"Start with the call by dragon boat, recite !"

“In Guilin customs: the individual who is over 60 years old is entitled as Seniors'in Longchuan Family, while those under 60 years old address each other as 'big brother' and refer to themselves as 'little brother', regardless of their age. In certain villages where the Dragon Mother is worshipped, community members address each other as 'big sister' and refer to themselves as 'little sister'……”

The Tieniu was deeply engrossed in reciting the etiquette, and unconsciously three pillars of incense had be burnt, far overrunning the agreed time, however the dragon boat of Bahuzhou had not appeared yet.

The Tieniu is feeling a bit tired and yawned, then asked: "Brother, why haven't they come yet "

“I don't know”.

"Brother, do you think they can defeat the serpent?"

Hum... I'm not sure it's a good outcome.

"This is not what you said last time." The Tieniu did not notice that the Teihu's face was getting more and more serious, and he shouted with a pout, "You clearly said last time that the big green dragon boat in Bahuzhou is long and big, and can afford 60 strong men (rowers in the dragon boat).The leaders, the second leaders, the drummers, and the gong-players all have military experience. All of them possess exceptional martial arts skills and are proficient in wielding swords, bows, and arrows so they will be able to hit the ground running”

"I forgot."

After noticing his brother's distracted demeanor, the Tieniu grew even more frustrated.

“Hmm, you also mention that the Bahuzhou 's big green dragon boat is incarnated from the god of Lishui river and It can kill monsters and demons effortless.”

“Look, calm down! It's coming!"Tiehu face was abruptly severe, as if he was afraid that something bad was going to happen.

The Tieniu had a closer look at the river, beholding a multitude of debris which is floating upstream, such as shattered tree, lifeless swine and bovine, and... the remnants of a charred dragon boat? The triangular flag with black and white edges of Bahuzhou village! These propellers were scattered over！Rowers were frozen into ice sculptures! The river is tainted with crimson, Large and small whirlpools are constantly blewing the blood wave against the dragon boat.

At this moment,a large one-horned snake head emerges from the water, its body is black and white. A resplendent jewel is adorned with the serpent's head,a wooden head of the dragon boat is being held in itsmouth and this wooden dragon head is the "opening dragon" which from “Jinjiao Daqinglong”boat from Bahuzhou village. Meanwhile, another identical snake had also appeared, with a bloody head in its mouth.

The snake noticed the two brother-Tiehu andTieniu on the shore. The left snake clenched its teeth, tearing apart the wooden dragon head. Meanwhile, the right snake tossed the bloody head into the sky and blow it off by its tail which raised from the water. As the head traced a parabola, it landed in front of two brothers. Both snakes opened gigantic maw,a half smile on their face,and swayed their bodies with a shrewdly significant air,This is a blatant provocation!

Chapter Three

The Tieniu sat on the steps of the bamboo hut, gently covering his mouth with his hands, shedding silent tears. Old Lizheng had asked him to take care of the stranger who lay unconscious in the bed, so the usually boisterous beast refrained from shouting as he normally would.

Three days ago, he cried and hurriedly ran back to the village to report. These people who are preparing Dragon Boat Festival to see the bloody head of Bahuzhou' leader—Shuisheng , be frightened, quickly took the sword, gun and bow, under the leadership of the old Lizheng rushed to rescue Tiehu. Although three miles wasn't too far away, upon arrival they discovered that both the Tiehu and snake were missing. Despite the old Lizheng's efforts to track down any traces left by the snake, heavy rainwater had washed them away completely.they searched along two or three miles upstream only to come across a dying stranger...

"Hey little brother, hey little brother..." The Tieniu heard someone calling out to him. He quickly wiped away his tears and rushed into the house, asking eagerly: "Big brother, are you finally awake? Just wait here, I'll go get help." He was about to inform the old Lizheng but was stopped as the man gently held his hand.

- “Where is it?”

- "Lilong Village, Guilin State."

- “Who are you?”

- "I am LiaoTieniu, the youngest son of the coffin maker in this village, you could call me Tieniu, Would you like some water, Big brother? I will offer some water to you."

The Tieniu wanted to take the small bowl, but after considering for a moment, he opted for the large celadon bowl that the whole family rarely used. He filled it with water and extended it towards the stranger. Then he filled the small bowl with some osmanthus cakes that he had prepared for the Dragon Boat Festival. The stranger eagerly devoured the food, causing theTieniu to salivate.

- "What a pleasant surprise to see you, my big brother! Our village is hosting a dragon boat banquet these two days, inviting some esteemed brothers from neighboring villages to join us in discussing our plan to eradicate the poisonous snake menace. It would be delightful if you could partake in this joyful occasion!"Oh, by the way, may I ask where are you from , big brother?"

- "My name is Jiang Wu, and I'm from Yongzhou."

- “There are a lot of people who are living in our city, some of them are rich merchants who are running ships, and there are also some refugees who are fleeing famine. Oh, yes, they still don't know you're awake. I'm going to go and ask them."

Jiang Wu again pulled the Tieniu and said, "Wait. You have been poisoned by a snake. If you don't get treatment, you will die."

- "Snake venom? I don't feel anything."

- "Look at your hands."

The Tieniu looked down at his left hand, nothing was different. Then he looked at his right hand, and suddenly he began to cry. His right palm had turned purple and black without his feeling, and a black liquid rushed from his forearm to his arm along the veins. The stranger took out two sharp teeth from nowhere and stabbed the acupuncture points on the Tieniu's right arm. The black blood flowed from the sharp teeth, corroding several small holes in the wooden floor, and the Tieniu's arm was recovered to normal.

- "It's okay, it's okay. Tieniu doesn't cry! Doesn't shed a tear!" Jiang Wu removes the fangs, crouches down, and embraces the Tieniu, gently caressing his back of head.

The Tieniu, with tears in his eyes, asked, “ what are these?” as he pointed to his fangs."

- "This is the poisonous tooth of the strange snake in Yongzhou. The Royal Hospital will collect the pickled strange snake meat two time in a year, but they don't know that this snake tooth can take a thief to catch a thief and can dissolve the venom of of all kinds of snakes."

Suddenly a loud voice came from outside the bamboo house: "Sir . Good skills, maybe you are the snake catcher in Yongzhou?"

It was Lizheng, the old man from Lilong Village . He has a little lame in his left leg, his hair is white as snow, and he is a tall man, half a head taller than the other villagers.g GivingJiang Wu a fist salute.

Jiang Wu stood up and proudly declared, "The grand old man is absolutely right. I am honored to be the fourth generation of Yongzhou snake catchers appointed by the court." He is tall and slender like a bamboo pole, towering over the old Lizheng, which earned him admiring murmurs from the villagers.

- "You snakes catcher, right?" The Tieniu eagerly grabs Jiang Wu's wrist and asks, "Jiang big brother, how many snakes have you caught before? Can you even catch the double-headed snake that killed Shuisheng big brother and my brother Liao Tiehu?"

- "Be polite" said by the old Lizheng to Tieniu and apologized to Jiangwu,saying, "Sir, this boy who named Tieniu lost his parents at his early age and had no one to guide him. He has become unruly. However, he has a brother named Tiehu. At the same day I found you, the two brothers encountered the snake demon,Tiehu asked him to go back and report while he bravely faced the monster alone. Although we haven't found his body yet, I'm afraid.”

- “May I inquire, Lizheng, if Tiehu is a strong young man who is wearing a straw hat and wielding a broadsword?”

- "Yes, sir, Have you seen the Tiehu?"

- "He was a brave man, but me, Jiang, couldn't save him."

- The Tieniu holds Jiang Wu and shouts: "Jiang big brother, you tell me quickly, what happened to my brother?"

- "He was poisoned and taken away by the snake demon. but don't worry, with my understanding of the snake, it will not kill the Tiehu brother immediately, Instead, it will first give him detoxification."

- “Why it will do like this”

- “The monster is being belligerent and spiteful and enjoys playing games with people. It patiently waits for Tiehu to awaken and regain strength to engage in another round of play, repeatedly teasing its prey. Eventually, when theTiehu becomes exhausted and loses his fighting spirit completely, the monster will useits two snake heads to gently separate his body into halves and consume him.”

- "Brother Jiang, can you help my brother? Please." Tieniu repeatedly kowtow and held byJiang Wu . The Tieniu had no time to dry his tears, pointing to the sky and scolding: "**** demon snake, when I grow up, I will cut off your two skulls as chamber pot , grilled your skin, and stewed dragon and phoenix soup with your meat..."

Jiang Wu looked at Tieniu is gnashing his teeth, for a moment did not know what to say.

- "Sir, have you ever dealt with the snake?" asked by the old man,Lizheng

Jiang Wu bowed and said, "I am ashamed to admit it. I came to Guizhou to hunt the snake. On that day, I encountered the snake and it captured Tiehu brother, so I bravely stepped forward to fight. However, I was taken aback by its ferocity - it could breathe out fire and spit ice! Its scales were as tough as copper and iron, each of them contains deadly poison. Even its breath could poison people without any perception. Alas, I couldn't defeat it and ended up being struck by its tail. If not for the antidote from my heirloom, I would have been turned to a pool of blood." He coughed uncontrollably before vomiting two mouthfuls of blood. The old man Lizheng and the Tieniu quickly helped him lie back on the bed.

All villagers sighed wistfully, wept bitterly, and held their wrists in distress. Someone sorrowfully asked, "Should we allow this snake to continue terrorizing the world?" Everyone had their own opinions but couldn't reach a consensus.

- "Solution? There have some solution," Jiang Wu paused, then said slowly, "Do you still remember when the snake escaped and there was a purple lightning followed by three white ones in the sky?"

His words reminded them of the previous day when they ran through the rain and witnessed thunder rumbling across the sky. Initially, a vibrant purple bolt of lightning struck something, followed by three white bolts igniting a fire in the forest. Upon reaching the location pointed by the Tieniu, they discovered a large patch of partially melted ice and all the ice were stained with a lot of fresh blood and black blood.The rain had not yet extinguished the flames.

- "After me was injured by the snake, I almost died in mouth of it. Fortunately, one piece of purple lightning hit the snake and three piece of white lightning followed, although not hit, but also will scare away the demon snake. In a trance, a fairy preached a thousand miles, saying that the evil demon had been badly wounded and was unable to cause trouble for the time being. He also told me how to deal with the demon snake."

- The Tieniu said, "Hey Brother Jiang, could you tell us the solution?"

- Jiang Wu said, "Is there a mountain, which called Multicolored mountain ?"

- "Yes, it is in the northeast corner of the city, on the west bank of the Li River, about thirty miles away from here."

- "Is there a Mingyue Peak on the Multicolored mountain?"

- “It truly is ”

- "Is there a cave which located at the eastern side, just a few steps away from Mingyue Peak?"

- "Yes, we have to pass by there every year when we take the dragon boat on the Dragon Boat Festival."

- "That's it." Jiang Wu smiled, "The immortal told me there has a camphor tree with dragon shape is at entrance of the cave and it is more thousand years old , only a few strong men can hug thick it" That ancient camphor tree is the real body of the demon snake. Now ,We are fighting is only the body of the demon snake , as long as its real body is not destroyed, we can not beat it. The best solution is to burn the camphor tree on the first day of May and then the magic power of the demon snake will be dissipated immediately,at that time the snake will be no different from an ordinary one."

The old Lizheng was overjoyed and requested everyone to prepare the meal. At this moment, several neighboring villages that had a long-standing relationship with Lilong Village arrived. The dragon boat team from Baishishuo Village gracefully navigated through the waterway, rowing the magnificent golden horn old yellow dragon boat towards the shore. Other villages chose to travel by land and carried a roast pig adorned with red cloth to offer it as incense at Donghua Dijun Temple.

Whether as the host or the guest, all parties lined up with a flag bearing the word "courtesy" in hand. They bowed and saluted while singing the special "greeting song" of the Dragon Boat people. Following the song, the main guests entered the table one by one, gathering in a temporary "soldier hall" shed by the river to enjoy themselves through drinking and singing...

Late at night, the river breeze swept away the heat of the day, and it was much cooler outside than inside. Jiang Wu looked around. The villagers were either lying on a table or lying on the ground after eating and drinking enough. Old Lizheng was lying in the pavilion on the wharf by the river. The Tieniu was putting his head on Old Lizheng's big belly and talking vaguely in his sleep.

Jiang Wu walked slowly to the edge of the water, stepping on the pebbles on the bank. He picked up a stone and said to himself, "The couples in Guizhou are quite interesting."

Suddenly, his expression became cold, a hoarse voice from his mouth spit out: "Jiang Wu, why do you want to save that little bastard? Is it just for that piece of osmanthus cake?"

- "Hmm, Snake King, you monster can speak human language, but do not have human feelings. Being killed by you is really a great shame and disgrace of my life.

- "Who made you inferior?You were a weakling in life, but in death you'll still be at my service. When I tell you to lie, you lie. Tell you to kill, you have to kill."

Jiang Wu suddenly snorted, hitting his forehead with a pebble, but his body was entangled by a strange force, involuntarily dropped the stone.

- "Don't take me all down with you,Without my power, your soul would be scattered immediately. Why save the kid? If you do not have a reasonable explanation, I will now use your appearance to kill, let the world know that the Yongzhou snake catcher family has come out of a crazy monster, ha ha ha."

- "Hum, King Snake. You don't have to be so hard on me. You have been hit hard by the Daomen thunder method, your vitality is so damaged that you cannot sustain yourself, and if you unfortunately confront the Taoist priest who saved the Tiehu, you will be defeated. Won't it be a good idea to lie dormant and rest in the trust of mortals? Besides, once those foolish men and women destroy the ancient camphor tree, the spirit of the Water Dragon that you fear most will never be able to return to his place."

- "You mortals are still too cunning to be guarded against!"

Jiang Wu coldly said: "Shut up, someone is coming."

- "Brother Jiang, are you talking to yourself by the river?" The Tieniu came over rubbing his sleepy eyes. Before JiangWu answered, he suddenly jumped up and said excitedly: "No, you won't be angry but want to throw into the river?" No, no, no. My brother says a man should be humble in victory and gracious in defeat. Let's beat the snake together, you don't throw into the river, okay? All right?"

Jiang Wu shook a little, squatted down to stroke Tieniu's head and said: "Don't cry, listen to you."