Strange Tales in Plain Language.

Summary

In "The Examination of the City God," Song Gong, a scholar, is summoned by a minor official to participate in an examination that leads him to become the City God after impressing deities with his essay on morality. He requests nine years to care for his elderly mother, which is granted. After her passing, he prepares for his new role as an Immortal. In "Corpse Transformation," a guest at an inn encounters a female corpse that rises and pursues him. He narrowly escapes to a temple where he recuperates. The next day, a county official discovers the corpse gripping a tree, unable to release herself, indicating supernatural elements at play.

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