Dragon’s Chance Plot

Anyone could become wealthy overnight thanks to Shiou-Tsu. The dragon offers a chance to all without exception, including you!

The Malevolent Usurper

Every creature in the Celestial Empire knew of the dragon named Shiou-Tsu. This mighty being seized the governor’s pagoda, casting him and his entourage into exile.

Of course, the governor attempted to reclaim his castle, but to no avail! Shiou-Tsu incinerated him along with the vassals who had defended their lord.

The Emperor’s Rival

Initially, the dragon proclaimed himself the new governor and then suddenly declared himself the ruler of the surrounding villages and towns, advising the Emperor of China to go to hell and not to meddle in his little realm. Naturally, the sovereign attempted to expel and eliminate Shiou-Tsu, but the dragon proved immortal, like all dragons!

Ultimately, the sovereign had to recognize the small empire. He even felt genuine relief that Shiou-Tsu did not wish to annex more land. Furthermore, the dragon could have claimed the throne, and it was uncertain who would then rule the Celestial Empire…

Generous Gifts for the Right to Live

Shiou-Tsu demanded offerings to be presented to him. Elders of the villages, mayors, and other authorities sent entire convoys of gold to the dragon’s pagoda.

At times, he requested precious gems, magical artifacts, and virgins. And he received everything he desired, indulging in boundless power within his empire! It was rumored that the dragon was merely entertaining himself, trying to experience what it was like to rule over the human world.

A Chance for Everyone

Years passed. Shiou-Tsu grew bored and wished to amuse himself by giving anyone a chance to become wealthy. However, the price of a mistake was death…

The dragon invited all who wished to gain riches to his castle. All one had to do was solve a riddle!

Riddles of Life and Death

But it turned out to be far from simple, despite how enticing it sounded from the dragon’s toothy maw inviting all to test their luck. Many tried to decipher the dragon’s riddle, yet none succeeded—no one returned… those who made a mistake were simply devoured by Shiou-Tsu. Grasping the unfortunate with his enormous claw, the fiery creature would consume the hapless individual, savoring their death cries.

No one knew what riddle the dragon had devised. Meanwhile, the brightest minds of their time came to him: philosophers, historians, doctors, mathematicians, and other learned individuals who were seven spans ahead of the rest. Not a single dreamer wishing to acquire some dragon treasures ever returned…

The Time to Choose Has Come

Shiou-Tsu called upon everyone without exception, giving each a chance. Among them was a farmer named Kui Tan, who seized the dragon’s invitation. He entered the pagoda and requested an opportunity. The dragon, personally greeting his guest, commanded him to enter the garden and seek him among the statues.

Kui Tan obeyed. In the garden, he saw statues of a phoenix, a fish, a turtle, and a lion. An inner voice urged him to touch the one that housed the spirit of Shiou-Tsu. Kui Tan thought carefully before making his fateful choice and placed his hand on the turtle’s head.

The Lucky One Who Could Walk Away

The statue expelled the dragon’s spirit, which spat forth a small heap of gold. It offered Kui Tan the chance to play again and test himself against more difficult riddles, but he declined. The poor farmer was perfectly content with the gold he had won.

Of course, greed urged him to continue, but Kui Tan knew it was the worst advisor. He thanked the dragon and returned home alive, unharmed, and happy; otherwise, the farmer would have likely met the same fate as the greedy ones who could not stop in time!