The second level describes Sun Wukong's agility and resourcefulness in trying to get the three important treasures of the demon: the "purple gold red gourd," the "jade white jade bottle," and the "golden rope." Here, the author fully demonstrates his comedic talent, vividly depicting the battle of wits between the Monkey King and the lesser demons, leaving a deep impression on the reader. The demon sends two lesser demons with the "purple gold red gourd" and the "jade white jade bottle" to capture Wukong. Wukong transforms into an old Taoist priest with white hair and youthful looks (a bit like "using someone’s own methods against them"), blocking the path of the two lesser demons.
By logical inference, Sun Wukong is not at the same level as the two lesser demons; he could easily take the treasures without much effort. However, such a straightforward approach would make the story dull and uninteresting. More importantly, it doesn't align with Wukong's usual principles. "Not good! Not good! If I just snatch it, it will tarnish my reputation. This would be daylight robbery!" Wukong's reasoning makes some sense.
When the lesser demons ask him where he comes from, Wukong deliberately mystifies them, claiming to be a deity from Mount Penglai, successfully deceiving the two lesser demons. But how can he make the lesser demons willingly hand over their treasures? Wukong again uses his wit and intelligence; he turns one of his hairs into a huge gourd and claims it can contain the sky. Can the sky really be contained? Wukong's idea is indeed bold. Despite his great powers, this is the first time he encounters such a situation. At this point, the readers can't help but feel anxious for Wukong.
However, Wukong is no ordinary being; he goes to heaven and finds Nezha to help. Nezha borrows the black kite flag from Zhenwu at the North Heaven Gate and displays it at the South Heaven Gate, completely blocking out the sun, moon, and stars. Although it's not truly "containing the sky," this "illusion" impresses the two lesser demons so much that they are awestruck. After discussing privately, they decide to exchange their treasures for Wukong's. Wukong's goal is achieved, but he still insists on pulling out another trick. He plucks a hair from his navel, blows divine breath onto it, and turns it into a copper coin, asking the lesser demons to buy paper. For what purpose? It turns out he wants to write a contract to prevent the lesser demons from changing their minds. Reading this part, we can't help but smile at Wukong's cunning nature in playing with the lesser demons.
Soon, Wukong repeats his trick and deceives the nine-tailed fox spirit to get the golden rope. Now, of the demon's five treasures, Wukong already possesses three. It seems that Wukong is about to accomplish his mission.