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Chapter Text

"Once upon a time there was a Sun and a Moon."

"The Sun and the Moon ruled their homes and ruled their people with great justice and love."

"Both of their lives were happy and peaceful."

“The two even received an offer to form a resistance group against the Jade Emperor.”

"Of course, although they were hesitant at first, they later accepted it."

"Everything was peaceful, even better than they thought."

"During the war, this sect successfully achieved victory and became the new emperor."

"But everything has a consequence."

"This war caused the cycle to completely break down."

"That's why the team collected all the stones, including the stone in that power, and even gained a new brother."

"But they didn't know that the Sun would make a great sacrifice as a result..."

"The Moon tried to stop the Sun when it came to sacrifice. But the Sun was so kind-hearted and pure... He made the sacrifice."

"Everyone thought he was dead."

"When the Sun came back again, first the Moon and then the others hugged the body of the unconscious Sun tightly."

"But they didn't know that the Sun had actually died then."

"Madness overtook him. And the Warrior was forced to imprison his King in the scroll."

"The warrior wished things were different, but mistakes made could not be undone... So the Moon worked to make everything okay."

"For the sun..."

When the shadow story ended, the lights in the room changed from purple back to normal.

Two 23-year-old young people sat on the cushions on the floor and listened to the story with interest and curiosity.

The boy sitting on the right was a young monkey with spiky dark brown hair held up by a red bandana. His right eye was chocolate brown and his left eye was golden. The boy was wearing an orange jacket and a white T-shirt with a cute and smiling monkey emblem on the back. And he was also wearing red pants and black shoes.

The girl sitting next to him had short chin-length black hair, two small ponytails, straight bangs, and a highlight framing her face with green on the right side and purple on the left. The back of her hair tapered at the bottom. The silhouette of her hair also resembled a dragon's head. She had pale pink lipstick on her lips and her eyes were green. She was wearing a white shirt and pants, with a picture of a dragon on the shirt, and a turquoise varsity jacket with spring green sleeves and purple and gold trim on the collar. The back of the jacket had an emblem of a slyly grinning monkey.

The monkey telling the story had dark fur covering his body and tail, and tan fur on his body, face, ears and hands. His six ears seemed to be in purple, green and pink colors, giving him a peaceful appearance. It had a furry red marking over its golden eyes, a prominent wing, and bushy black eyebrows. His clothes consist of yellow and black ru, with a black belt around his waist. He wore a brown and gold breastplate crossed to the left and an armored skirt. He wore a red scarf draped over his cloak and black and gold boots.

After putting the shadow lantern in his hand under his cloak, he came to his children and smiled at them in a motherly manner.

Macaque: "How? Did you like the story?"

While Mei nodded excitedly, MK seemed thoughtful.

Mei was a little girl orphaned by during the war. Macaque couldn't bear to leave her there and decided to take her under his wing.

MK, on the other hand, was Sun Wukong's child. After imprisoning him, he learned that he actually had a 2-year-old son and decided to take him under his wing too.

But every time he looked into the boy's eyes, he saw his Sun, and this frightened him even if he didn't want to.

Macaque ruffled both of their hair while laughing at his daughter's excitement.

Macaque: "I'm glad you liked it."

Then, while the six-eared monkey started getting ready, he was also talking to his children.

Macaque: "I need to go to the Celestial Realm and help Azure. As for you two, you can go to Red Son if you two want. If you want, you can take some of the money in my room. You've been a little tired from training lately, this would be a little reward for you."

Mei nodded as she looked at her father with excitement and affection.

Mei: "Of course dad! You're the best!"

Macaque laughed and shook his head as Mei excitedly hugged her father.

Macaque: "It doesn't matter, honey."

When Macaque turned to his other son, he noticed MK nodding and smiling as well.

He couldn't blame his quiet nature, MK loved his father after all and he was just a toddler when he disappeared. This was a really big loss for him.

After Macaque hugged his daughter, he went to his son and ruffled his hair, still maintaining his smile.

Macaque: "Hey kid, why don't you get some money from my room for you two? You two deserve it."

MK nodded at this.

MK: “Okay, Macaque.”

Then the boy stood up and went to the monkey's room. Macaque started to choose among the clothes his daughter showed him.

===============
When MK entered the room, he started looking for the money and finally found it.

Just as he was about to take the money, he saw a black and slightly green scroll hanging by the drawer.

He tried to ignore it at first, but something seemed to be forcing him to take it.

The boy first looked to see if anyone was coming, and when he realized there was no one, he secretly took the piece of scroll. There was a name written on it.

"SUN WUKONG"

When MK saw this name, he felt as if he knew it.

For a moment, he remembered a blurry memory of his father telling him stories, but then his thoughts were interrupted when Mei called him.

Mei: "Come on MK! We're leaving!"

MK got out of his thoughts and looked at the door and the piece of scroll in his hand. Then he frowned and put the scroll into his jacket.

MK: "I'm coming!"

Then the boy went to his sister.

==============

The two finally arrived at the Bull Family meat shop.

People were afraid of this place opening at first. Because the owner of the shop was basically the great Demon Bull King, who was known for his scariness.

But when people gave it a chance and tried the meat, they said they loved the meat, including its bitter taste, and they went there every day to eat meat.

As always, the front of the food truck was packed. The smell of delicious and mouth-watering meat was coming from the truck.

When the two finally arrived, they saw their red demon friend, who had finished serving the food and was wearing his red trench coat. When he saw them, he immediately came to them and smiled.

Red Son: "Hey, guys! My parents let me leave early in case you two were coming. What do we do now?"

Mei thought as she looked at the money in her hands.

Mei: "Maybe we can go to the arcade! I heard there's a new game out, I'm sure it's perfect!"

When Red Son heard this, his eyes lit up with excitement and he nodded.

Red Son: "That would be absolutely amazing! I've always been curious about that game! What about you, MK?"

When MK realized that the topic had come to him, he snapped out of his thoughts and looked at his demon friend.

MK: "Mhm yes... Sure.."

Red Son and Mei didn't pay much attention to his situation. MK has been this shy and absent-minded since he was little.

Mei: "Okay then... Leeeego!"

Then, Mei quickly grabbed the two children's wrists and ran to the arcade.

When the trio arrived at the arcade location shortly after, Mei and Red Son entered the arcade.

But when they saw that MK was not coming, they stopped and looked at him in confusion.

Mei: "MK? Are you coming?"

MK shook his head negatively.

MK: "No... I'm going to walk a little. We'll meet at the park."

Mei and Red Son reluctantly accepted his decision.

Red Son: "Okay then... Take care."

MK just nodded, and then the two entered the arcade.

==========

MK was walking alone on the street, while looking at the scroll in his jacket pocket.

That name sounded familiar to him, it seemed like it was similar to his father's name.

While the young monkey was lost in thought, he suddenly found himself in a deserted street.

While MK was looking around in confusion, he suddenly heard a little girl's voice.

???????: "You found that thing from Macaque's room, didn't you?"

MK suddenly looked up and saw a little girl sitting on the stairs leading to the roof.

The girl's hair was black, with the top layer wrapped around a jade green bun holder that curled into sharp ends at the ends. She wore blue eyeshadow and a high-collared qixiong ruqun. Ruqun consisted of a white top and a long, flowing black skirt, fastening the right blue collar with two blue bone-shaped buttons.

MK: "Who are you?"

But the girl ignored this and continued talking.

Girl: "Have you ever wished to meet your father again? If so, I understand you."

MK frowned hostilely and then attempted to leave.

MK: "A kid like you can't understand this. Leave me alone. I'm in a terrible mood right now..."

Just as MK was about to leave, the little girl stopped him by speaking again.

Girl: "I... I know what you want to know."

When MK heard this, he turned to the little girl in confusion.

MK: “What do I want to know?”

The little girl smiled proudly and then started talking as she descended the stairs.

Girl: "I know that your father is actually Sun Wukong and that the Sun and Moon in that story Macaque told are Wukong and Macaque. Moreover, your father disappeared 3 years after that sacrifice. On your birthday. And I guess that's when Macaque adopted you, isn't it?"

MK was still confused as he listened to her silently.

MK: "What do you mean? Are you saying that Macaque imprisoned my father in this scroll?"

The little girl inclined her head innocently.

Girl: "Who knows? Isn't it your job to search for the answer?"

Then the girl suddenly disappeared, leaving the boy there with questions. His golden and brown eyes stared at both the scroll and the ground.

He didn't know which was right, but there was only one way to find out.

He secretly went to a place where no one could find him. When he looked around and realized that there was no one there, he sighed and took out the scroll. Then, focusing, he waited for the scroll to reveal the person inside and opened it.

At first nothing happened. Just as the boy was about to give up and leave, ink flowed from the scroll

The boy dropped the parchment with fear and saw that the inks had taken a shape.

Then, when the ink took shape, the child was shocked by what he saw.

The monkey in front of him had peach-orange fur, the right part of his eye was golden, and the left eye was blood red. He was wearing a red cloak with a gold breastplate on top, a gold coat skirt with red and turquoise trim, maroon trousers, a red sash belt, and black boots with gold soles. He also wore a small golden headdress with two long red feathers.

??????: "Hmmmm... Where am I?.."

While the monkey was rubbing his eyes tiredly, only one sentence came out of MK's mouth.

MK: "Dad?.."

Chapter Text

?????: "Thank you for your help, brother."

Macaque nodded and smiled at his sworn lion brother, the emperor, who smiled at him next to him.

Macaque: "No problem, Azure."

The lion nodded fondly and then replaced the parchment.

The lion had deep blue skin, shoulder-length spiky orange hair, and the two front strands were tied with purple bands. He had pink eyes, thick orange eyebrows and an orange beard. He also had sharp teeth, a broad chest, and cat-like knees. He wore upturned pauldrons with a gold chest plate cut to expose his mid-navel. His cloak was gold, purple on the back, and had ornate patterns on the ends. Her skirt was purple with gold lining, a gold loincloth, and a belt.

Azure: "I don't know what I would do without your suggestions, Liu'er. Sometimes I wish you had this power."

Macaque rubbed the back of his neck while laughing shyly.

Macaque: "Yeah, but you know. I already have kingdoom to rule in Flower Fruit Mountain, and I don't think my body can handle that power compared to you. I'm dealing with enough power as it is."

Azure's expression turned sympathetic when he realized she was talking about his shadow powers.

Azure: "I understand. Your shadow powers must be hard to deal with."

Then he placed his hand on his sworn monkey brother's shoulder.

Azure: "But I'm sure you can handle it. You're more than capable of that."

Azure smiled softly at him.

After what happened, Azure, like Macaque, had changed.

The old Azure, the one who had his own way and was thirsty for revenge, was gone.

Now he was only concerned with keeping his brothers and the realm safe and helping them no matter what.

He even started to give the shadow monkey the respect he didn't give before and even started to listen to his troubles.

But what happened to Wukong made him both disappointed and sad.

Even though Wukong could be mischievous or vicious at times, he knew that he would never want to harm his brothers or the world.

Azure sometimes thought about what would happen if Macaque and Peng did not trust him, as he said, but this time he gave up when he thought that the world would be destroyed.

Macaque: "I better go. Besides, I wonder what Mei and Xiaotian are doing."

Just as Macaque was about to stand up, Azure stopped him with his soft voice.

Azure: "Don't you want to stay for dinner? Yeah, I know there will be a big family dinner tomorrow anyway, but I don't want to send you away hungry."

Macaque was surprised by this offer, although he should have gotten used to it by now. Because of what happened recently, bir Azure or Iron Fan usually wanted him to stay to eat.

Macaque rejected the polite offer with a soft chuckle. He already had a lot of work to do.

Macaque: "No need, Azure. I'm going to visit the Iron Fan anyway. See you tomorrow."

Macaque bowed and then walked through the doors. Azure first sighed and then took the picture in the frame.

In the picture, the brotherhood was happy as always.

Everyone there except Macaque was laughing at a joke made by Wukong.

While he was looking at old memories with sadness, the voice of an old memory echoed in his head for a moment.

"Oh, come on, Azure. I was the one who gave you that idea! How could you forget me?"

Azure shook his head to get rid of the memory and put the picture in his hand aside.

He didn't know what that demon's plan or purpose was. Or why he believed in them and started this in the first place.

But when he found them, the first thing he would do was punish them for what happened.

With a sigh, Azure returned to his throne and sat down, continuing to watch over the Mortal Realm.

============

As Macaque walked through the palace corridors, he could hear the voices of his other brothers in the dinning room.

Yellowtusk: "Peng, can you stop drinking so much?! You'll get yourself drunk before dinner!"

Peng: "I don't care! I'm bored and I want to drink Celestial Beer!"

Yellowtusk just sighed as Peng drank the glass in their hand hungrily.

Macaque looked at them secretly and incomprehensibly, then, just as he was about to leave, he saw Mei and Red Son communicating with him astrally.

The shadow monkey was confused about this.

And the even more confusing point was the worried looks of the kids.

Macaque: "Kids? What happened? Are you okay?"

While Macaque started to worry, Red Son and Mei looked at each other and then started talking.

Red Son: "Would you like to come to the steakhouse? We need to talk to you about something..."

Macaque was a little concerned by this, but then nodded.

Macaque: "Okay. Wait for me there calmly."

Macaque then cut off communication and left via the portal.

============

"WHAT DO YOU MEAN HE LOST?!"

The children still looked worried as Macaque screamed in panic and concern. Iron Fan was trying to comfort him.

Iron Fan: "Brother, calm down."

Macaque sighed heavily as Iron Fan seated the shadow monkey back into place.

Macaque: "How exactly did you two lose him?"

Even though the 23 year old youngs swallowed hard, they started to explain.

Mei: "W-We went to the arcade for the new game. MK seemed a little upset, but we thought he was his normal self! When he said he was going to the park, we didn't say anything and let him go."

Red Son: "But when we went there, he wasn't in the park. We thought he had gone home and we went to Flower Fruit Mountain. When he wasn't there, we looked everywhere, but he wasn't there!"

While Mei and Red Son explained what happened with fear and concern, Macaque sighed and stood up.

Macaque: "I'm not angry with you. Come on, help me find him. Maybe we'll find him before it's too late."

The children shook their heads and left. Iron Fan turned to his sworn brother.

Although they didn't exactly get along at first after the war with the Celestial Realm, it turned out that the two of them had a lot in common, and even became closer after what happened to Wukong.

Iron Fan: "Do you want me to help you?"

Macaque shook his head solemnly.

Macaque: "No. You take care of the truck here, DBK will come to you when he is done."

Although Iron Fan objected at first, she knew how stubborn her brother was, so she had to agree.

Iron Fan: "Okay. Take care. I hope you find Xiaotian safe and sound."

Macaque just nodded and then left.

==============
MK was in a secret shelter with his father.

While Sun Wukong ate the food given to him with appetite, MK was still confused, but on the other hand, he was happy to see his father again.

Wukong: "Ohhh my Buddha! I haven't eaten in so long that I forgot how amazing this tastes!"

Wukong let out a deep, relieved sigh as he finished the meal, then turned his red and gold eyes to the monkey boy.

Wukong: "Thank you for getting me out of there. Even though I don't know who you are or why you released me..."

As skepticism appeared on Wukong's face, MK realized that he had not explained himself. He looked away as he rubbed the back of his neck shyly.

MK: "Well... This may sound a little crazy, but... I am your son, Qi Xiaotian."

As Wukong looked at his son in surprise, he frowned at first as if he didn't believe it, but then when he remembered his son's 2-year-old self, he thought it was possible.

MK: "I understand if you don't believe it! It's been years and-"

Wukong hugged his son tightly, a loving smile on his face as he breathed in his scent.

Wukong: "I missed you so much, son..."

MK was surprised by the hug at first, but then he hugged his father tightly too, his fingers gripping the fabric of Sun Wukong's cloak tightly as he held back his tears.

Wukong: "Shhhh... It's ok, my little sun... It's ok..."

After the two had this moment, Wukong broke the hug and stood up, smiling at his son.

Wukong: “You remember those chaos stories I told you, right?”

When MK remembered the stories, his eyes lit up with excitement like a little child and he shook his head.

MK: "Yes! And you said that if there was chaos, everyone would be free."

Wukong ruffled his son's hair as he nodded proudly.

Wukong: "Yes, kid! You remember correctly."

While MK was giggling at this, a question mark suddenly appeared in his mind.

MK: “Ummm… So how do we do this?”

Wukong grinned darkly, his eyes glowing even more red and gold.

Wukong: "Don't worry kid, I know someone who can help."

When Wukong and MK turned to the shadow in front of them, the shadow's eyes glowed orange and it grinned.

Chapter Text

Macaque first searched for MK all over the Flower Fruit Mountain, but could not find it.

When he learned that the scroll had also been stolen there, he more or less put the pieces together in his mind, and this caused him to panic even more.

Macaque then informed Azure about MK and the missing scroll, and then sent the Azure Celestial Guardians and their brothers to begin a search throughout the Mortal Realm.

But hopes were slowly fading.

It was as if the kid had disappeared, there was no trace of him anywhere.

Moreover, the fact that Sun Wukong's scroll had been stolen was not heartening at all.

While the search was still going on, Mei and Red Son must have gotten tired so they stopped in front of a shop.

Mei was still very regretful, her brother was missing because of her and there was a chance they wouldn't be able to find him.

Mei was barely holding back her tears as she got off the bike, her body was shaking.

When Red Son noticed this, he went to the girl with concern and hugged her.

Red Son: "Hey... Shhh... It's over... It's over... It's not your fault and we'll find him... Don't worry..."

Mei continued to cry as she tried to find comfort in her red demon friend's embrace.

Then Red Son noticed a noodle shop in front of them, with a sign showing a pink pig making noodles and the words "Pigsy's Noodles" written on it.

Red Son: "Look, maybe we can get some rest here."

Mei also looked at the shop, nodded, and then the two of them went in.

Inside, a pig was making noodles while a bespectacled person and a blue giant were playing checkers.

The person who made the noodles was a round-shaped, short pink pig. He had whiskers on his cheeks and head. He seemed to be the same age as Tang. And he was wearing a white chef's jacket with a brown towel around his neck, black pants, and a white chef's hat.

Compared to the big blue giant playing checkers, he was a grown man with straight black hair combed to the side, much larger than him. He wore round, gold-rimmed glasses. His eyes were also caramel brown. The man was wearing a changpao, white on the left side and red on the right side, with gold buckles in the middle. He was wearing a red scarf and black boots.

The big blue giant was a large, muscular guy. His skin was blue and he had an orange beard and mohawk. He had a necklace with several pink orbs hanging around his neck, white pants, and pink and white shoes.

As Red Son and Mei sat down, Pigsy handed them the menu and gave them the warm smile he always gave his customers.

Pigsy: "Welcome to Pigsy's Noodles! How can I help you?"

While Red Son was perusing the menu, Mei was wiping the remaining tiny tears from her eyes. She was too upset and tired to eat anything right now, so she let her ginger friend choose.

Red Son: "Ummm.... can we have 2 bowls of Zha Jiang Mian please?"

Pigsy nodded as Red Son paid in advance, then began to prepare the meal.

????: "I won!"

The two were shaken by the sudden shout of victory and turned around.

While the man with glasses was smiling at himself with joy and pride, the blue giant was congratulating his friend with a sincere smile on his face.

Sandy: "Congratulations, Tangy. You beat me again."

Tang let out a proud laugh as the blue giant rubbed his shoulder.

Tang: "Oh of course, my dear Sandy. I am a genius. And also... You will also pay for my noodles today."

While Tang was eating the bowl of noodles next to her, Sandy kept her warm smile and nodded.

When they saw the two intruders staring at them, Tang stopped eating and Sandy waved at them.

Sandy: "Oh, hello!"

Mei and Tang locked eyes for a moment as Red Son shyly waved his hand at the blue giant. Then Tang's eyebrows rose, as if he recognized the girl.

Tang: "Are you Mei, Six-Eared Macaque's daughter and MK's sister?"

While Mei nodded positively, she tried hard not to cry again and tried to stay strong.

Mei: "Yeah, that's me."

Tang looked around for MK but couldn't find him.

It was strange, the kid usually visited this shop every day and listened to his stories and ate free Pigsy's Noodles. Sometimes he would even go to the harbor with Sandy.

But now instead of the kidd, his sister and his friend were here.

Tang: "Ummm... Didn't MK come with you?"

The duo were a little surprised by this question, they didn't seem to be expecting this question from the man.

While Mei took a deep breath and tried to calm herself down, Pigsy gave them their orders, but due to Tang's question, she also started to worry about the monkey boy.

Pigsy: "Yes, it's a little strange that he didn't come today. He usually comes here every day and eats noodles. I even cooked his favorite dish on time, but he didn't come."

The two were surprised to hear this.

So, instead of hanging out with them, MK went and hung out at a noodle shop?

As strange as this may sound, it was the truth.

While Mei shook her head negatively, she sighed and began to speak.

Mei: "He lost..."

The three were surprised to hear this and shouted at the same time.

"WHAT?!"

Mei and Red Son hugged each other while shaking badly, then Pigsy asked her question as Sandy and Tang approached their arrows.

Pigsy: "How exactly did he disappear?!"

Mei and Red Son looked at each other, and then Red Son began to explain.

==============

Azure had gathered his siblings, and as they gathered at the table, they were talking about both the missing monkey boy and the piece of scroll that Sun Wukong was trapped in.

Iron Fan: "Do you really think the kid might have stolen it?"

Peng was still relaxed as they picked up a glass of wine.

Which made Macaque hate him even more.

Peng: "I can expect. Wukong is his father anyway, and he was generally a quiet, strange child anyway."

While Macaque clenched his fists, he growled at his brother, and DBK pulled his brother away from the bird and towards himself to calm him down.

DBK: "It's not worth fighting, Mihou."

Macaque let out a sigh as he tried to calm himself down, then sat back down.

After the fight had calmed down, Azure turned to his brother, a worried look on his face.

Azure: "Brother, did you find where they are?.."

Yellowtusk shook his head negatively.

Yellowtusk: "Unfortunately no. But if MK really stole the scroll and freed Wukong, all three of them should be gathering materials to free "him" by now."

Macaque looked at his brother in disbelief.

Macaque: "That's not right! Xiaotian would never do something like that!"

Shadows darted around him for a moment as Macaque's eyes glowed purple and the room turned an ominous shade of purple, then as Azure, DBK, and Iron Fan tried to calm their brother down, the room returned to its original state and the shadows retreated back towards the black ape.

Mei: "Dad?"

When Macaque turned back, he saw that he had brought his daughter, his niece and three friends with him.

Macaque: "Mei? What are you doing here and who are they?"

While the brotherhood was looking at the newly arrived guests with curiosity, the team immediately went to them, Tang had a scroll in his hand.

Tang: "I don't know if it will help you, but if you want to find the ingredients before them, I think I know where they are."

As Tang opened the parchment, everyone looked at what was written on the parchment.

==============

In a secret hideout, Wukong gave his son new clothes while the Nine-Headed Demon looked at the orange hologram of Hund in front of him.

MK's red bandana now had a golden crown shape on it, just like his father's crown. He was wearing a white, sleeveless tangzhuang with gold lining and a cloud design, a red belt and black trousers. There was a cute monkey symbol on the back of his outfit, just like his old jacket.

MK: “Woah!”

While MK looked at him with admiration, Wukong laughed affectionately at his situation.

Wukong: "It suits you very well, son. I always knew you would grow up to be handsome like me!"

They both laughed as Sun Wukong ruffled his son's hair.

Until the cough of the 9-headed snake demon broke the moment.

When Wukong realized that his teammate was calling him, Wukong stopped playing with his son and went to him.

Wukong: "Is everything ready?"

Xiangliu showed a hologram of 5 objects in front of Chaos God Hundun.

These consisted of a ring, curtain, lantern, mirror and a seal.

Xiangliu was smiling coldly as he showed these.

Xiangliu: "Once we find these... We will finally achieve our goal."

As Wukong looked at the objects, his eyes flickered orange for a moment before he grinned.

Wukong: "Okay then... Let the real game begin."

Chapter Text

The Celestial Realm was cloaked in an uneasy silence. At the grand table, Azure, Yellowtusk, Tang, Pigsy, Sandy, Red Son, Macaque, Iron Fan, and Demon Bull King sat deep in thought. Their faces were marked with worry and fear as they contemplated the dual threats of the Chaos God Hundun and the disappearance of Sun Wukong's scroll, as well as the missing MK.

Peng, under Azure's command, carefully placed the Chaos Ring into a clawed case and swiftly issued orders to strengthen its security. They returned to the group shortly after.

Peng: "This won't hold the ring for long. Wukong or Xiangliu will come back to steal it."

Azure, seated at the head of the table, nodded solemnly in agreement.

Azure: "You're right, brother. We must act quickly. There's no time to stop Wukong or Hundun. We need a plan."

Macaque sat in silence, his eyes fixed on the table. The thought of his old friend's fractured soul returning and the chaos and destruction it would bring weighed heavily on him.

Iron Fan, understanding the turmoil within him, gently squeezed his hand and offered a silent nod. The room was thick with uncertainty and tension.

Yellowtusk: "His return will only make things worse. If he approaches the city, he’ll destabilize everything."

Mei, trying to remain optimistic, gestured to the artifacts displayed in the scroll.

Mei: "Alright, guys! All we need to do is find these cursed and dangerous items and stop all this chaos, right?"

A moment of silence followed before Tang abruptly stood, slamming his hands on the table.

Tang: "It's not that simple, unfortunately. These artifacts are hidden in cursed and treacherous places, and retrieving them will be incredibly difficult. Plus, we don’t have time to spare."

Red Son's face had paled with worry. His crimson eyes reflected his fear that everything was spiraling out of control.

Red Son: “Yeah, we can’t waste any time. We need a real plan—now.”

Suddenly, the palace began to shake violently.

As the group held onto one another to keep their balance, Tang’s sharp scream echoed through the room.

Pigsy: "WHAT NOW?!"

Macaque rushed to the window, as if he already understood what was happening. Peering outside, he caught sight of golden energy rippling through the city. He knew exactly who it belonged to.

Macaque: "Wukong..."

The group froze at the name, a collective dread settling over them.

It was as if everyone in the room had stopped breathing at once. The return of Wukong spelled doom for them all. Their faces were painted with horror and indecision.

Azure shut his eyes tightly, drawing a deep breath.

Azure: “He’s attacking the city. We must stop him. Quickly.”

Iron Fan, with a calm demeanor born of experience, turned to Mei, Tang, Sandy, Pigsy, and Red Son.

Iron Fan: “You stay here. We’ll handle this.”

The group nodded reluctantly. Just as the others were about to leave, a shadow shifted in the corner of the room, revealing a pair of glowing blue eyes.

??????: "I’m coming too—if you’ll permit me, Emperor Azure."

=================

Chaos had overtaken the city. The sky was bathed in golden light, as Sun Wukong’s immense energy rippled through every corner. His presence was a tidal wave of fear washing over everyone. What had started as a peaceful day had quickly descended into a living nightmare with Wukong's arrival.

With a single swing of his golden staff, Wukong cleaved a massive building in half. The structure collapsed with a deafening crash as people in the streets screamed and scattered in every direction. Roads cracked open, stone and asphalt splitting apart. Golden energy surged from the ground to the sky, leaving a path of utter destruction in its wake.

Wukong’s eyes were dark, his consciousness seemingly buried deep within. His focus lay solely on annihilation. A chilling smile crept across his face, and every step he took fractured the earth beneath him.

Wukong: “How fragile this place is… Just as fragile as it was before I was locked away.”

Slamming his golden staff into the ground, he unleashed a wave of energy that shattered windows throughout the city square. The flying shards melted into golden dust before settling on the ground.

Suddenly, a bright light appeared in the sky. Cold and tranquil, it exuded a silver and blue glow that clashed with Wukong’s golden energy, bringing an eerie stillness to the battlefield.

The Moon Goddess had arrived.

Chang’e’s figure, bathed in moonlight, stood in stark contrast to Wukong’s chaotic aura. She held a slender bow, the crescent moon patterns on her attire shimmering as her icy blue eyes locked onto Wukong.

Chang’e: “Monkey King... Have you returned to spread chaos again? Or are you the harbinger of this world’s end?”

Wukong turned to face her, his dark eyes deepening with an unreadable intensity. Smirking, he took a step forward.

Wukong: “Ah, the Moon Goddess. I should’ve expected you’d show up. Tell me, how’s your husband doing? I heard things aren’t going so well—”

Chang’e swiftly drew her bow, forming a radiant arrow of energy. She loosed the arrow, which grazed Wukong’s cheek as he narrowly dodged it.

Chang’e: “There’s no point in asking you to stop, is there? That means it’s my job to stop you.”

She released another arrow, its radiant light striking Wukong and creating a powerful explosion. Yet, Wukong raised his golden staff, effortlessly deflecting the attack. The resulting shockwave spread across the battlefield, but Wukong’s smile never faltered.

Wukong: “Is that all you’ve got, Chang’e? I’m disappointed.”

He swung his staff, releasing a wave of golden light that surged toward Chang’e. She leapt gracefully into the air, evading the strike. However, when the attack hit the ground, it left a massive crater, demolishing the surrounding buildings.

Chang’e’s expression was resolute as she prepared another attack. This time, three luminous arrows shot out of her bow simultaneously, curving midair to strike Wukong from different angles.

Wukong conjured an energy barrier with his hands. The arrows struck the barrier and burst into brilliant flashes of light before dissipating. With the barrier gone, Wukong lunged toward Chang’e.

Wukong: “Did you really think you could stop me? Too much time has passed, Chang’e. The old hero is gone!”

Caught off guard by Wukong’s speed, Chang’e barely managed to summon a shield of moonlight to block his staff. The impact sent her flying backward, though she landed gracefully on her feet.

Chang’e: “You may not be the hero you once were, but remember—you’re still not god, Wukong.”

Wukong, his eyes dark and unrelenting, lunged at her again. Chang’e, unwavering, raised her bow once more. The clash of light and darkness lit up the sky as the people below watched in helpless terror. Among them were the former Brotherhood and Macaque.

Macaque: "We have to help her..."

Just as he was about to rush into battle, Azure stopped him.

Azure: "Not now, Macaque... Not yet."

Macaque hesitated but realized Azure was right. He turned his gaze back to Wukong, watching the battle with grim determination.

=================

The radiant halls of the Heavenly Realm seemed peaceful, but tonight, a dark plan was unfolding.

MK, cloaked in a mantle gifted by Xiangliu and wearing a monkey mask to conceal his identity, moved stealthily through the intricate corridors of the palace. His heart pounded with a mix of excitement and dread as he made his way toward the chamber where the Chaos Ring was secured.

Avoiding the guards with practiced ease, MK finally reached the door. Inside, the ring was locked in a heavily enchanted vault. He carefully followed the instructions he had been given, working to dismantle the spell.

Meanwhile, Mei, wandering through this part of the palace, noticed a shadow moving in the distance. Narrowing her eyes, she decided to investigate.

Mei: "Who’s there? What are you doing here?"

As MK unlocked the vault and grabbed the ring, he froze, sensing someone behind him. Mei’s sharp voice cut through the tension.

Mei: “Hey! I asked you a question. Did you come here to steal—"

MK broke the silence, but his voice was altered, making it unrecognizable to Mei.

MK: "What does it look like I’m doing? I’m taking it to someone who truly deserves it."

Mei’s eyes narrowed in suspicion. She stepped forward.

Mei: "Deserves it? That ring only brings destruction! I don’t know who you are, but let it go!"

MK shook his head.

MK: "I’m sorry. You can’t stop this."

At that moment, Mei unsheathed her sword and attacked MK. However, MK quickly dodged her strike with sharp reflexes. A brief clash ensued between them. MK expertly deflected all of Mei’s attacks but didn’t retaliate.

Mei smirked mockingly.

Mei: "Why aren’t you fighting back? Are you scared?"

MK remained silent. But as Mei swung her sword, she managed to grab MK’s cape. When the cape tore, his mask fell to the ground.

Mei’s eyes widened.

Mei: "...MK?!"

For a moment, both of them froze. Mei lowered her sword in shock.

Mei: "This… how is this possible? MK, why?"

MK turned his face away as if trying to avoid her gaze.

MK: "I’m sorry, Mei. But you wouldn’t understand. I have to go now."

Mei: "No! MK, you can’t do this! You’re putting them… us… everyone in danger!"

MK hesitated for a moment but then leaped into the air with a burst of golden energy. The Chaos Ring was in his possession, and he wouldn’t let Mei stop him. As he soared into the sky, Mei shouted after him.

Mei: "MK, come back! You owe me an explanation!"

At that moment, Red Son, Pigsy, Tang, and Sandy rushed into the room, having heard Mei’s voice. They looked at the torn cape in Mei’s hand and the mask on the floor.

Red Son: "Mei? What happened here? What’s this?"

Pigsy: "Did someone break in? Whose mask is that?"

Mei, still in shock, kept her eyes fixed on the window where MK had escaped.

Mei: "It… it was MK…"

Tang: "What? MK? He was here?!"

Mei nodded slightly.

Mei: "Yes. He… he stole the Chaos Ring…"

The group stood in stunned silence for a moment, unable to comprehend why MK would do such a thing. Yet, one thought lingered in all their minds:

Why had MK chosen this path, and what could they do to stop him?

================

The battle between Wukong and Chang’e raged on in the ruined streets of the city. Chang’e’s moonlight-like magic clashed with Wukong’s golden staff, creating explosions on rooftops and sending clouds of dust into the air. Every attack from Wukong caused devastation, while Chang’e’s graceful yet lethal movements pushed him back.

Chang’e glared at Wukong with pale fury. Her eyes, glowing like moonlight, reflected disappointment.

Chang’e: "You once fought for the good of everyone and sought to protect them, Sun Wukong! Now, you’re nothing more than a puppet of darkness. How did you come to this?"

Wukong smirked, his red eyes gleaming with menace.

Wukong: "You’re the last person who should judge me, Moon Goddess. Righteousness, justice… They’re just empty words. Chaos and freedom are the only truths. And I’ll do whatever it takes to release it."

Chang’e struck Wukong with a luminous blast, forcing him back a few steps. For a moment, she felt victory within reach. But Wukong quickly recovered and tilted his head mockingly.

Chang’e concentrated her magic, readying herself for one final attack. She aimed her arrow at Wukong and lunged forward. However, Wukong pulled out a scroll from within his golden armor. The scroll emanated a dark energy that surrounded him.

Wukong: "None of you understood me. But I haven’t forgotten who I truly am in this world. Now I’ll bury you like the rest of them."

Chang’e felt the power radiating from the scroll and tried to retreat, but it was too late. The scroll, surrounded by dark ink-like energy, began to consume her. As she struggled to break free, she let out a scream, but eventually, she was pulled into the scroll.

As silence fell, Wukong looked at the scroll and let out a victorious laugh.

Wukong: "The strong triumph, the weak are forgotten. It’s that simple."

At that moment, a voice rose from the shadows.

Macaque: "Funny hearing that from someone who once sacrificed everything to save his friends."

Wukong turned to see Macaque stepping out of the shadows. His face was filled with disappointment and pain.

Wukong: "Oh, Macaque. Finally decided to show yourself. But if you’re here to lecture me, don’t bother."

Macaque took another step closer.

Macaque: "You need to stop this, Wukong. You can’t let more people suffer. This isn’t who you are."

Wukong’s mocking expression hardened.

Wukong: "It’s ironic, coming from someone like you. Do you remember when you trapped me in that scroll? The darkness, the cold, the loneliness… That was all thanks to you."

Macaque: "I was trying to protect you back then! But now—"

Wukong raised his staff, cutting him off.

Wukong: "Now you’ve come to stop me? Let’s see how far you can go, my old friend."

The golden staff gleamed once more, and the battle between the two began. Macaque moved in sync with the shadows, evading Wukong’s powerful strikes. But every blow from Wukong was destructive and filled with fury.

Macaque deflected an attack and shouted at Wukong.

Macaque: "This isn’t you, Wukong! This darkness is consuming you, but I will bring you back!"

Wukong roared in anger and retaliated with an even stronger attack.

Wukong: "You’ll bring me back? Someone like you? Don’t make me laugh!"

Macaque summoned chains from the shadows, restraining Wukong’s movements. He struck with a shadowy blow, pinning Wukong to the ground. But as he looked closer, he noticed the wounds on Wukong’s body.

Wukong’s body was covered in dark, ink-like veins and chaos energy. Each wound seemed to reflect the pain he had endured.

Macaque froze, staring at him in disbelief.

Macaque: "Wukong… What have they done to you?"

For a brief moment, Wukong was silent. But then he smirked coldly and raised his head.

Wukong: "You can’t stop me. Your purity and mercy aren’t enough, Macaque. Even when those shadow powers try to corrupt you, that tiny spark of light in your heart never truly goes out."

Wukong released a burst of dark energy, freeing himself. Macaque had to retreat. With an arrogant laugh, Wukong gave him one last look.

Wukong: "But keep trying. Maybe one day, you’ll succeed."

In a flash of light, Wukong disappeared.

Macaque was left alone in the ruined streets. His hands were trembling, but his heart ached even more.

Macaque: "No matter what, I’ll bring you back, Wukong. I owe you that…"

As Macaque fell to his knees, the others joined him, offering their support.

================

In a dark hideout, MK handed his father new clothes and bandaged his wounds while Xiangliu proudly held the Chaos Ring.

Xiangliu: "You both did an excellent job."

He then tossed the ring into a furnace, which erupted in an orange explosion.

When the dusty clouds cleared, Wukong and MK saw part of a key forming in the projection.

MK: "Whoa! We did it! See, Dad?"

MK looked at his father innocently, and Wukong, both tired and proud, smiled at him.

Wukong: "Yes, my little star."

As Wukong hugged his son, Xiangliu turned back to the two of them, his expression neutral.

Xiangliu: "Yes. But there are still a few more items we need to find. Once we have them all, it will finally be free, and chaos will set everything free~"

Xiangliu smiled coldly, and Wukong chuckled in response. For a brief moment, Hundun’s figure appeared in the projection, his eyes glowing orange.

Chapter Text

They were underground.

Wukong already felt better and was stretching his body, while MK lay on the couch, having fallen asleep. Xiangliu, on the other hand, was trying to detect the positions of the other objects.

After finishing his stretching, Wukong first went to his son and patted his head, then went to the snake demon to start inspecting the area with him.

Wukong: "What's our next target?"

Xiangliu suddenly clicked on the hologram that resembled a curtain. With the click, an image of a valley appeared.

Xiangliu: "The Stormy Valley... A valley where lightning constantly strikes and chaotic winds blow, hiding a cave. To enter the cave, one must harmonize with the chaotic rhythm of nature, and the most important thing is that there is an elemental spirit guarding the curtain. But this spirit usually tests those who try to take it, so we must be careful."

Wukong, with a sneer on his face, looked at the valley.

Wukong: "Sounds easy. I'll be in and out, taking the curtain in seconds. I'll be able to go there—"

Just as Wukong was speaking proudly, MK woke up and interrupted him.

MK: "I can go!"

The child rushed to his father's side and looked at the curtain, while Wukong objected.

Wukong: "But son, this task might be dangerous for you!"

The child, still stubborn, remained firm, and just then, Xiangliu spoke up.

Xiangliu: "Actually, one of you could take the curtain from the Stormy Valley while the other takes the lantern from the Lost Graveyard in the Shadow Realm. Don’t worry, I’ll try to open a portal for you."

At first, Wukong wasn’t convinced by this, but the plan started to seem reasonable. Perhaps Macaque and his little team would separate to stop them, and they could overwhelm them with numbers.

Wukong glanced at the chaos cracks and ink stains on his arm with a sigh, then turned to his son and gave him a warning.

Wukong: "You need to be careful there, no fighting, getting hurt, or putting yourself at risk. Take your food with you and come back safe and sound. Understood?"

MK nodded and gave his father a tight hug.

MK: "You take care too, Dad."

Wukong hugged his son back and kissed his brown hair, smiling.

Wukong: "I will, son. I will."

Once their moment ended, MK gathered his things and flew up with his cloud, while Wukong passed through the portal created by Xiangliu.

===================

In the grand meeting hall of the Celestial Realm, there was usually a divine peace, but now the room was filled with tension and anxiety. Everyone gathered around the massive stone table, silently lost in their thoughts. Tang, Pigsy, Sandy, Macaque, Mei, Red Son, Peng, Azure, DBK, Iron Fan, and Yellowtusk—each one of them was trying to process the shock of recent events.

The theft of the Chaos Ring was already a major catastrophe. The fact that it was MK who had stolen it doubled the sorrow and fear felt by the group. Worse still, Sun Wukong had trapped Chang’e in a scroll and caused widespread destruction in the city. Moreover, the chaos wounds and ink stains on Wukong’s body showed that he was completely changing.

The silence was first broken by Azure. His voice was sharp and authoritative, but it carried suppressed anger.

Azure: "This is no longer just a chaos threat. Wukong is sinking deeper into chaos... and MK, he has stolen the ring with his own hands. They have both turned into an unpredictable danger."

Azure’s words cast a heavy shadow over the room. Everyone thought about what he said, but no one responded immediately.

Yellowtusk: "Has MK really... crossed a line of no return?"

This thought echoed in everyone's mind. Had MK’s actions been a betrayal or a decision taken out of desperation?

Iron Fan took a deep breath and crossed her arms over her chest.

Iron Fan: "There must be a way to stop Wukong and MK. We can't let Hundun be freed."

At this point, Macaque finally broke his silence. Leaning against the wall, his eyes disappeared into the shadows. His voice was mocking but also filled with pain.

Macaque: "Is stopping them all you want? Or do you want them back? Because there’s a difference."

These words stunned everyone in the room. Did they truly want Wukong and MK to return, or were they only fighting to stop them?

Red Son, trying to control his anger, slammed his fist on the table.

Red Son: "Because of these damn monkeys, everything is falling apart! We can’t let them drag us into this!"

Sandy, despite Red Son’s furious tone, intervened with his usual calmness.

Sandy: "But we must remember that this is a situation where we need to act strategically, not make hasty decisions. There are too many unknowns."

Tang, quickly flipping through his books, furrowed his brow with worry.

Tang: "If they’re trying to obtain the items that unlock Hundun’s seals… we need to get them before they do. Otherwise, it will be too late for everything."

At this point, Mei leaned forward, placing her hands on the table, looking excited.

Mei: "Then what are we waiting for?! We can take the chaos items too!"

Everyone stared at Mei in surprise. In contrast to their tension, Mei seemed to be full of energy. But this cheerfulness was born out of her determination to not lose hope.

Mei: "Think about it. Instead of sitting here panicking, if we take action… maybe we can stop MK! If they’re after the other objects, we can get them before they do!"

Mei’s words suddenly shifted the mood in the room. If MK and Wukong were trying to collect the items, then they needed to find them first.

Azure nodded.

Azure: "You’re right. We need to make a plan."

Yellowtusk immediately jumped in.

Yellowtusk: "We should form one group to take the Curtain from the Stormy Valley and another to take the Lantern from the Lost Graveyard in the Shadow Realm."

Iron Fan also nodded in agreement.

Iron Fan: "We need to gain an advantage. But we must be careful when forming the teams."

Mei, with a bright smile on her face, snapped her fingers.

Mei: "Alright then! Let’s form the teams!"

And so, the teams began to form quickly. But there was still a lingering concern about MK’s betrayal and Wukong’s growing chaos inside him.

As Mei pulled out her pen and paper to assign the teams, Li Jing and Erlang arrived with reports and handed them to Emperor Azure as Mei quickly took the lead.

Mei placed her hands on the table and looked around excitedly. Things were getting serious, but instead of panicking, they needed to do something. It was clear that Wukong and MK were collecting the chaos items to release Hundun. To stop them, they had to move just as fast.

Mei: "Alright, everyone, let’s get the teams sorted out without wasting time!"

Shadow Realm – Lost Graveyard Team (To get the Lantern)

Macaque/Father (The best person to navigate the area)

Peng (With his strategic mind and cool-headedness)

Tang (To help with his research knowledge)

Iron Fan (With her combat skills and leadership)

As Mei was forming the group, she noticed Macaque and Peng exchanged a brief glance. Neither of them seemed thrilled to be in the same team.

Peng: "Great. I’ve always wanted to spend time in the Shadow Realm with Macaque."

His voice carried obvious irony.

Macaque rolled his eyes.

Macaque: "I guess I’ll have to listen to Peng’s complaints too. This should be exciting."

Mei sighed. She hoped their friction wouldn’t cause any issues.

Iron Fan quietly nodded. Although she wasn’t fond of her son Red Son being in a different group, she at least trusted the team to stay balanced.

Mei: "Now, for the other one!"

Stormy Valley – Curtain Team (To get the Curtain)

Mei (Leading the team)

Red Son (With speed and fire abilities to provide an advantage)

Sandy (With his balanced and strong physique for added security)

Yellowtusk (With his celestial powers to assist against the elements)

Red Son crossed his arms over his chest and grumbled.

Red Son: "I guess I should thank you for not sending me to that dark and dorky place."

Mei winked at him.

Mei: "Of course! But I’ll be honest with you, this won’t be easy. The elemental spirit guarding the Curtain will probably test us."

Yellowtusk calmly nodded.

Yellowtusk: "We’ll need to harmonize with the elements of the Stormy Valley. This isn’t a job that can be rushed."

Sandy smiled as he placed his hands on the table.

Sandy: "Either way, we’ll need to trust each other. If we work together, we can succeed."

Then Mei pulled out another list.

Macaque: "What’s that, my little monkey?"

Mei grinned and showed them the list.

Celestial Realm Defense Team (To protect the Chaos Ring and prepare for a potential attack)

DBK (With his strength to provide protection)

Erlang Shen (With his third eye to sense threats)

Li Jing (To maintain the order of the Celestial Realm)

DBK clenched his fists and grumbled.

DBK: "I can’t say I like this, but leaving the Celestial Realm unprotected would be foolish. If Wukong, MK, or anyone else decides to attack, we’ll be ready."

Erlang Shen scanned the room with his sharp eyes.

Erlang Shen: "We must be cautious to anticipate Wukong's movements. As if stealing the Chaos Ring wasn’t enough, the absence of Chang'e has further disturbed the balance of the Heavenly Realm."

Li Jing sighed heavily.

Li Jing: "The Heavenly Realm is already in a state of imbalance. This war affects not only the mortal worlds but the divine order as well."

As everyone was preparing, Pigsy crossed his arms over his chest and sighed deeply.

Pigsy: "I’m out."

Everyone in the room turned to Pigsy in shock.

Tang: "What?! Pigsy, why are you doing this?"

Pigsy looked away.

Pigsy: "MK... he was like a son to me. I raised him, fed him, and guided him. But now... now he stands before us as an enemy. Do you really think I can fight him?"

His eyes were filled with sorrow. For him, this was not just a mission; it was the pain of another father figure.

Pigsy: "I can’t raise my sword against MK. I won’t be a good warrior for you."

The room fell silent. Pigsy's words revealed a harsh reality. This wasn’t just a war; it was a chaos where friendships and family bonds were being tested.

Macaque gave Pigsy a long look but said nothing.

Mei smiled faintly and walked toward Pigsy.

Mei: "Pigsy... I understand you. But don’t forget, this isn’t just a war. We need to save MK. If anyone can truly help him when we return, it’s you and all of us. Maybe you won’t fight, but you’ll be there for him when he comes back."

Pigsy sighed but said nothing.

Mei put her hands on her hips and turned back to the team.

Mei: "Alright, everyone! The teams are set, and the plan is ready. It’s time to move out!"

Everyone in the room exchanged glances. They were running out of time to obtain the Chaos items. Wukong, MK, and Xiangliu were carrying out their own plans, and they had to act quickly and decisively to stop them.

The next battle would test not only strength but also willpower and loyalty.

===================

Wind Valley was filled with a chaotic and dark nature at nearly every corner. Lightning struck the sky rapidly, disappearing as quickly as it came, and trees swayed violently in the gusts. But instead of frightening the team, it somehow strengthened their resolve. Mei led the way, energetic and cheerful. The team moved as quickly as they could, always preparing for the next storm.

Red Son sat on a rock, carefully observing his surroundings.

Red Son: "So... how much longer will these lightning storms last?"

Mei: "I don’t know, but in a few minutes, nature will probably start something else."

As Mei smiled, Yellowtusk looked up at the sky.

Yellowtusk: "The lightning didn’t decide to just watch the skies, it’s here with us."

Sandy, while chatting with the team members, was also keeping a close eye on everything. But at one point, while preparing tea, she accidentally flicked a few tea leaves onto Yellowtusk’s head.

Yellowtusk: "Is this a joke?"

Sandy shyly and gently smiled, scratching the back of his neck.

Sandy: "No, it’s just that the wind from the clouds blew the tea leaves, Mr. Yellowtusk. Sorry about that."

Mei, in the meantime, wore a smile. Yes, nature was chaotic, but even in such a disordered valley, their trust in each other kept them standing. Even amidst this chaos, being able to joke around brought them peace.

===================

While the others advanced, MK set off on a much lonelier journey. He felt as though he was lost, but thanks to the determination within him, he quickly moved forward.

As he entered the Stormy Valley, he first realized the necessity of his instincts. Lightning struck the sky, but he could feel each strike was aimed at a specific target. Still, being alone made everything seem a bit uncertain.

At one moment, the wind blew so hard that MK had to squint and push forward. He was so determined that no matter how strong the storm became, he was willing to face it in his effort to make his father proud.

And then... a lightning bolt suddenly struck very close. MK recoiled in fear, but at the same time, he thought, "No more retreating."

In an instant, the storm and the entire nature seemed to turn into a confusing puzzle for him. The rocks appearing behind the winds and storms felt like obstacles in his path. In his mind, Wukong’s voice echoed:

"Be careful there, no fighting, no getting hurt, no risking yourself. Take your food with you and come back safely. Got it?"

He murmured "Dad..." to himself and quickened his pace toward the goal, recalling the moments when they were always together.

MK: "I’ll do this..."

No matter how dark it got, he was determined to get through the storm on his own.

===================

As the team continued through the Stormy Valley, they soon began to feel the growing intensity of the Elemental Spirit's energy. The uneasy silence between storms and winds suddenly gave way to a tense atmosphere, as lightning erupted from the sky, illuminating the valley in bright flashes.

Then, the Elemental Spirit appeared. A shapeless being, merging with the air around it and sometimes taking the form of a massive, undulating body. The storm grew around this entity, intensifying. The Spirit scanned the entire team with a great eye, briefly perceiving the deep emotional entanglements within each of them before approaching.

Elemental Spirit: "If you wish to take this veil, I will first test your endurance and your strategies. You must work together... and I will test the bonds you share."

The team, upon hearing this, looked at each other and began preparing. Mei, Yellowtusk, Sandy, and Red Son quickly began a brief discussion about how to move. They needed to develop strategies to withstand the rapidly changing weather conditions.

Suddenly, the wind's power increased, and massive rocks began to fly from their spots. As the rocks blocked the path, the Elemental Spirit’s traps began to test the team. Yellowtusk, Red Son, Mei, and Sandy quickly began helping each other to clear the path.

Yellowtusk: "We can only push these rocks together! If we leave one behind, we’ll lose our way."

Red Son: "Yes, let’s move faster. We’re racing against time."

Mei: "Come on, together! We all need to trust each other!"

Sandy: "These are just small obstacles. Let’s go, a little more strength!"

They managed to topple the rocks, and the Elemental Spirit created a new challenge to test them further. The ever-changing environment required the team to stay tightly connected at all times.

However, as Mei’s group continued to progress, MK decided to take a very different path. Deep in the valley, he saw an opportunity to distract the Elemental Spirit and grab the Veil. Quickly climbing a rock, he stealthily retrieved the Veil.

MK: "Heh. That was easier than I thought~"

MK smiled proudly as he held the Veil, ready to leave.

Meanwhile, Mei was using all her strength to lift the rocks and test the elements, but her eyes suddenly focused on MK’s movement. As MK appeared with the Veil, Mei narrowed her eyes, trying to understand what was happening. Finally, she realized.

Mei: "MK?! What are you doing?!"

MK quickly checked his surroundings, hiding the Veil in his pocket, and continued on his way. Mei immediately started following him. But in that moment, Mei’s dragon power was triggered.

Mei: "No...!"

Suddenly, green flames exploded from Mei’s dragon powers, shaking the air around her. Mei lost control and, unintentionally, directed the flames right in front of MK.

Yellowtusk: "Mei, be careful!"

Red Son: "What’s happening to her?!"

Sandy could only look at the girl in shock, just as the others did.

As Mei unleashed her dragon powers, she lost control, and the green flames gave MK a chance to escape, freeing him completely. MK quickly tucked the Veil into his pocket, using this moment of distraction to flee.

The team looked at each other in shock, realizing Mei could no longer control her powers. As she tried to extinguish the flames, they soon noticed MK had managed to escape.

Mei: "MK! Stop!"

Even though Mei had seen MK secretly take the Veil, the power of her flames left everyone stunned. As MK fled quickly, Mei’s team members focused on him, trying to make the right move. However, MK managed to grab the Veil and escape.

Mei, in pain, hugged herself as she couldn't control the flames. It wasn’t until Red Son came and embraced her that she began to calm down.

Red Son: "Shhh... It’s okay... It’s over."

Mei took deep breaths and managed to calm herself, and as the flames died down, she clung even tighter to her crimson demon friend.

Sandy: "Are you better now?"

Mei nodded as Yellowtusk furrowed his brow in confusion.

Yellowtusk: "What exactly just happened there?"

Mei shook her head negatively, holding on tighter to Red Son, her head spinning and too exhausted to speak.

She could only hope her father's lantern would safely retrieve it.

Chapter Text

The team consisting of Macaque, Peng, Tang, and Iron Fan had stepped into the Shadow Realm. The portal opened by the shadow monkey had dragged them directly into a dark and gloomy graveyard. The sky was pitch black, and only a few pale blue lights illuminated the path. The wind howled through the tombstones, and with every step, a thin mist rising from the ground coiled around their feet.

Macaque carefully watched his surroundings as he took each step. This was his realm, but now it felt more like a battlefield. Knowing that Wukong was somewhere here made his mind even more clouded. His emotions were in turmoil—anger, worry, and somewhere deep down, a hope that had not yet died.

Iron Fan gripped her fan tightly as she moved between the tombstones, her eyes alert. Beside her, Peng impatiently advanced, grumbling at every opportunity. Tang, on the other hand, was visibly nervous, repeatedly glancing at the scroll in his hands to find the way.

Peng: "How much longer do we have to walk? Where's that damn lantern?"

Macaque: "Be quiet. There are eyes watching us here."

He then pulled out his compass, continuing to lead the way.

==================

Wukong was sitting on a tombstone, watching them. His eyes were cold and calculating, the ink and chaos wounds glimmering faintly. He struggled to restrain the anger rising within him, but seeing Macaque made an amused smirk appear on his lips.

Wukong: "How delightful. My old friend, still doing things with the same seriousness."

He thought. His golden and crimson eyes were filled not with hatred but with a cold distance. For a moment, a muffled voice inside him whispered.

"Destroy them. Take your revenge. Serve the chaos."

But Wukong ignored the voices and chose only to observe.

For now.

=====================

The team finally stopped in front of the lantern at the edge of the graveyard.

Macaque: "Yes, we finally found it."

As they stared at the purple lantern, Tang's eyes lit up.

Tang: "I-Is that?!"

While Tang gazed at the lantern in awe, Peng just rolled their eyes and moved to grab it.

Peng: "Let's just take the lantern and get out of this depressing place."

The moment Peng was about to grab the lantern, the ground trembled. A shadow rising from the graveyard formed in front of the lantern. It was a tall warrior clad in dark armor. Their face was nonexistent; only glowing purple eyes floated in the void. They held a black spear, and each step they took made the ground crack.

Guardian: "Intruders… Those who have no place in this realm. Do you dare to take the sacred lantern of the Shadow Realm?"

Peng snorted and took a step back.

Peng: "Ha! Are you trying to scare us? Move aside so we can get on with it, shadow scrap!"

The guardian turned coldly to the bird demon.

Guardian: "Arrogance is the clearest sign of weakness."

And suddenly, they swung yheir spear. Peng barely dodged, but the tombstones behind them were shattered into pieces.

=================

Iron Fan swiftly opened her fan, creating a wind shield.

Iron Fan: "Tang, prepare your spells! Peng, be careful!"

Tang, hands trembling, pulled out a scroll, his eyes wide with fear.

Tang: "I-it's happening… Just as I thought! The longer we stay here, the curse will descend upon us!"

Peng: "Ah, shut up! At least be useful!"

The guardian suddenly charged at Iron Fan. Macaque slid through the shadows, intercepting the guardian's attack. His shadow claws left marks on the armor but weren't effective.

In an instant, Macaque emerged from the shadows, stepping before the guardian. He raised his hands, speaking in a calmer voice.

Macaque: "Wait. We only want the lantern. This realm belongs to me, and I invoke that right to ask for your permission."

The guardian tilted his head slightly. His eyes fixed on Macaque.

Guardian: "Shadow Lord… This lantern only burns in the hands of those who serve chaos. If your intentions are pure, why are your companions ready to fight?"

Macaque gritted his teeth and turned back, giving Peng and Tang a warning glare.

Macaque: "Lower your weapons. Now's not the time for fighting."

Peng grumbled but lowered their spear a bit. Tang took a shaky breath. Iron Fan did not break her focus but ceased her attack.

The guardian, after a moment of silence, struck the ground with his spear.

Guardian: "As the lord of the Shadow Realm, you may take the lantern with your permission. But know the weight of this responsibility."

Macaque was just about to relax when a golden light appeared in the air. Wukong landed before the lantern, smirking mockingly.

Wukong: "Ah, ah, ah! What a sweet scene! My old friend still trying to be all polite."

Macaque's eyes filled with slight fear and seriousness as he turned to his old friend.

Macaque: "Wukong… You again?"

Wukong grinned and waved his hands casually.

Wukong: "Of course. I'm not stupid enough to leave the lantern to you."

The guardian suddenly turned to Wukong.

Guardian: "You bear the marks of chaos. You do not belong in this realm!"

But Wukong swung his staff, pushing the guardian back.

Wukong: "Sorry, but I make the rules here now."

Macaque quickly lunged at Wukong, trying to bind him with shadow chains, but Wukong shattered the shadows effortlessly. The two clashed with incredible speed, each strike creating shockwaves across the dark graveyard.

Wukong: "What's the matter, old friend? Have you fallen out of shape, or are you still stuck in the past?"

Macaque tried to ignore the taunts, attacking relentlessly.

Macaque: "Shut up! Look at yourself… You can't be the Wukong I knew!"

Wukong burst into mad laughter.

Wukong: "Oh, but I am! Just… a bit freer."

Their battle raged like a storm in the center of the graveyard, shadow chains and golden staff strikes colliding with crackling energy. Each blow split the ground, shattering tombstones into pieces.

Macaque's eyes were cold as he responded.

Macaque: "Look at you. You can't be Wukong. You're just an empty puppet!"

An instant of anger flashed in Wukong's eyes, but his smirk remained.

Wukong: "Maybe I am. But that's none of your concern."

Macaque, finding an opening, quickly bound Wukong with shadow chains.

Macaque: "Give up, Wukong! I can't stand to see you like this!"

Wukong, breathless but still smirking, replied.

Wukong: "Oh, I didn't know you cared. How… cute."

Macaque hesitated for a moment but tightened the chains.

================

For a fleeting moment, memories resurfaced in Wukong's eyes. The blood-red sky at sunset, shattered temples, and a battlefield turned to ruins. Macaque stood before him, eyes filled with sorrow and determination.

Wukong's desperate cries echoed as he was pulled towards the scroll of memories.

Wukong: "Macaque! Don't do this! Please!"

Macaque, voice trembling but resolute, responded without even looking at him.

Macaque: "I'm sorry. But I have to stop you."

As the seals of the scroll closed, darkness completely consumed Wukong.

===================

Wukong snapped back to reality, eyes blazing with the pain and anger of memories. His golden light exploded, shattering the chains and sending Macaque flying. As Macaque struggled to his feet, Wukong, teeth clenched, approached.

Wukong: "That scroll… I still remember. How you sealed me away..."

Macaque, pained, looked at his friend.

Macaque: "I never wanted to hurt you! But you had to be stopped! You'd lost yourself!"

Wukong let out a laugh filled with pain.

Wukong: "Ah, how touching. But I don't care anymore!"

Suddenly, the Guardian, despite their wounds, straightened up and swung their spear. Wukong shifted slightly to the side, but the dark aura of the spear extinguished the golden light in an instant.

Guardian: "Servants of Chaos cannot stay this realm!"

Wukong's eyes snapped towards the Guardian with irritation.

Wukong: "Ah, enough already!"

When he struck the ground with his golden staff, a massive wave of chaos erupted. Gravestones shattered and rose into the sky, darkness trembled. As Peng and Tang retreated, Iron Fan quickly created a wall of wind.

Macaque narrowed his eyes, staring at Wukong's glowing golden eyes, and muttered with concern.

Macaque: "Those wounds... What did they do to you, Wukong?"

After knocking the Guardian to the ground, Wukong cast a mocking glance. Holding his wounded arm, he let out a harsh laugh.

Wukong: "The fun is over. Next time, Macaque."

And with a beam of golden light, he vanished.

The lantern was left in their hands, but everyone was breathless and shocked. Peng their beak, striking their spear against the ground.

Peng: "That monkey...! I'll tear him apart!"

Iron Fan took a deep breath, closing her fan.

Macaque, meanwhile, took the lantern in his hands but was still thinking about Wukong's eyes.

Macaque: "I'll bring you back, no matter what it takes..."

He thought to himself but didn't say it out loud.

===============

In a cold stone-walled room, Xiangliu stood before the furnace with a neutral expression. His snake-like eyes flickered with a dim orange glow as he looked at MK and Wukong, who were kneeling before him. The light of the fire burning in the middle of the cave cast an ominous glow on the red stones and the half-shadowed pillars.

MK carefully placed the cloak he was holding tightly with his hands forward. The cloak, radiating a faint dark aura, glimmered under the flickering lights. For a moment, pride and satisfaction appeared in Xiangliu's eyes.

When Xiangliu spoke, his tone was sweet towards the child, but there was also an ominous undertone.

Xiangliu: "Well done, little champion. You're even better than I expected."

MK bowed his head slightly without saying anything, but there was a faint smile at the corners of his lips. One of Xiangliu's heads slowly reached out, lightly touching his shoulder. The cold touch made MK shiver, but he didn't flinch.

Xiangliu: "I'm proud of you. But now... let's see if it really works."

Xiangliu carefully took the cloak and threw it into the dark furnace in the middle of the cave. The flames flared up with an orange and black light. The symbols in the center of Hundun's seal began to glow one by one. Xiangliu watched this scene with a gleam of delight in his eyes.

However, Wukong had silently stepped back, his head lowered in the darkness. The slight tremble in his hands was barely noticeable, but it did not escape Xiangliu's sharp gaze.

Xiangliu: "And what about you, Sun Wukong? Unlike your son, you seem to have failed your task."

Wukong gritted his teeth, averting his gaze. The coldness in his golden and crimson eyes was mixed with a fleeting shame.

Wukong: "It wasn't that easy... The lantern is still in their hands."

Xiangliu let out a deep sigh.

Xiangliu: "Hmph. You've disappointed me, Wukong. There's nothing left of your former glory. Was defeating the Shadow Lord really that difficult?"

Wukong frowned and stepped forward, a flash of anger and defiance in his eyes. His voice was cold but determined.

Wukong: "It's not over yet. I sensed a faint trace of chaos energy in Macaque."

A thin smirk appeared at the corners of Xiangliu's lips. His snake eyes narrowed with a dangerous glint, while MK listened attentively to the conversation.

Xiangliu: "Ah, now things are getting even more interesting. So the Shadow Lord has tasted the darkness as well, huh?"

Wukong gave a brief nod.

Wukong: "I have a plan. I can bring both the lantern and Macaque here."

Xiangliu barely held back a laugh, leaning forward slightly. The hissing of the snakes echoed in the cave.

Xiangliu: "Then show me, Sun Wukong. Or else, this will be your last chance."

Wukong said nothing, just nodded and stepped back. There was a dark resolve in his eyes. But deep down, far beneath, there was also a flicker of hesitation.

And MK, with slight hesitation and concern, ran after his father, leaving Xiangliu alone in the cave.

Chapter Text

The Celestial Palace’s grand meeting hall was once again filled with former heroes.

Around the massive round table sat Azure, Peng, Yellowtusk, Tang, Pigsy, Sandy, Iron Fan, DBK, Red Son, Mei, and Macaque. Their faces carried exhaustion, worry—and a hint of guilt.

Mei lowered her head, avoiding everyone’s gaze. Her trembling voice betrayed her regret.

Mei: “We couldn’t get the cloak...”

There was a short silence.

Mei: “...MK acted before us. While we were distracting the spirit, he snatched it and ran.”

Red Son slammed his fist against the table.

Red Son: “He was one step ahead of us again. Damn it!”

Sandy gently placed a hand on Red Son’s shoulder.

Sandy: “Hey... we did our best.”

Azure fixed his eyes on Mei, then slowly nodded.

Azure: “What about the other team?”

Macaque took out a glowing lantern from under his cloak and placed it in the middle of the table. The swirling black-purple lights inside it cast a temporary silence over the room.

Macaque: “The lantern is here. We spoke with the guardian and got permission. But...”

His eyes narrowed, staring into the distance.

Macaque: “...Wukong showed up again. And yes, he still... can’t control his rage.”

Tang shook his head in concern.

Tang: “And it feels like something’s always shifting.”

Yellowtusk checked the symbols on his stone tablet, then looked up.

Yellowtusk: “Only one item remains: the Mirror. One of the most dangerous pieces—housing Chaos’s reflection.”

He then projected an image of the Bone Temple.

Tang shrieked in fear and collapsed onto Pigsy, who couldn’t handle the sudden weight and fell out of his chair with him.

Mei: “No way… This is…”

Macaque (cutting in): “Lady Bone Demon’s temple, yes.”

Everyone turned to Macaque, then to the projection, stunned into silence.

After escaping just before the Celestial Realm could catch her, no one had heard from the Ivory Lady.

No one knew what she was planning—and that terrified them more.

Azure: “We need to be more careful this time. They’ll be after the mirror too.”

Peng turned to Macaque.

Peng: “You again? You’re the one with the most experience.”

Macaque remained silent for a moment. His eyes showed tired resolve.

Macaque: “…I’ll go.”

Mei (suddenly stepping forward): “I’m going too!”

Macaque turned to his adopted daughter, his voice soft but warning.

Macaque: “Mei… this mission is far more dangerous. The mirror can warp the mind—trap you within your own thoughts.”

Mei: “I don’t care what happens to me! MK… he’s my brother. I want to save him. I won’t let you go alone.”

Red Son (standing): “Then I’m coming too.”

Sandy: “And me. If this is the final mission, we’ll finish it together.”

Yellowtusk (nodding with a faint smile): “A strong team... I approve.”

Macaque closed his eyes. The weight he carried felt a little lighter, seeing the team ready to stand beside him. He slowly nodded.

Macaque: “…Alright. If this is your choice… we’ll go together.”

Peng opened his mouth to protest, but Azure stood up and silenced him.

Azure: “Prepare yourselves. Nothing can be resolved without that last piece. And it’s the only way to stop Wukong and MK.”

The group nodded and began their preparations.

---

Things were different in the chaos sanctuary.

Chains with hooks hung from the high ceilings, surrounded by shards of black crystal pulsing with chaotic energy. The walls were carved with massive depictions of Hundun—a serpentine, eyeless creature waiting to awaken at the world’s center…

At the center, a massive ritual circle glowed. Within it, Hundun’s astral form flickered—a silhouette of orange and black fire. It had no clear body, but its presence was more potent than flesh. Broken, yet alive.

Xiangliu stood with his head slightly bowed, hands clasped behind his back, mentally communicating with the entity. Wukong leaned against a wall at an angle, his face hidden in shadow.

Two objects sat on an altar—one was the Chaos Ring, the other a curtain etched with death and chaos motifs—both vibrating in response to Hundun’s energy.

Xiangliu: “Two pieces have merged. But the others are still out of our reach.”

He then lifted his head slightly.

Xiangliu: “The lantern and the mirror... Not yet ours. But they will be soon.”

Wukong said nothing, his eyes still locked on the altar. His fists were clenched.

Xiangliu observed him, then calmly walked closer.

Xiangliu: “I expected more from you.”

Wukong: “I did what I could. Macaque’s in charge of that place, not me.”

Xiangliu: “But you could have done more. You have a bond with Macaque. He still cares about you. And you care about him.”

Wukong fell silent. His eyes flickered gold. Then he turned to face Xiangliu.

Wukong: “I just… want this to end, one way or another.”

Xiangliu stared at him like he was dissecting a wounded creature. Then, he smiled slightly.

Xiangliu: “And that’s why we’ll get the lantern. And the mirror. Then him. He’ll join us too. Just like you did.”

At that moment, footsteps echoed from the entrance.

MK appeared—wearing his new cloak, his father’s old armor, and wielding the golden staff.

MK: “Hey! Where are you guys going? Take me with you!”

Wukong turned quickly, a flicker of panic in his expression.

Wukong: “No. This mission is dangerous, son. You’re staying here.”

MK frowned, adjusting his cloak.

MK: “But I’m strong now. I can go with you! I even completed my mission—you didn’t!”

Wukong almost stepped forward, but Xiangliu gently placed a hand on MK’s shoulder.

Xiangliu: “Don’t worry, little one. I’ll take care of you. You can join us.”

Wukong’s eyes narrowed. MK smiled and walked alongside Xiangliu. Wukong’s ears twitched.

A tone… a distortion.

Xiangliu’s voice wasn’t normal. Something deeper, more sinister, lay beneath the sweet sound of his words. Wukong felt it.

Wukong: “Something’s wrong…”

His eyes drifted to MK. Then to Xiangliu.

Wukong shoved the thoughts away, but the tension in his face remained. He followed them, silently.

==============

The group was moving silently through the cave.

As the mist thickened, the air of the underground weighed on them like a damp fatigue. Mei was leading, holding a scroll for direction. She tried cracking jokes now and then, but no one laughed anymore.

Red Son: “If we’re still getting lost with this many people, we seriously should’ve just stayed home.”

Pigsy: “Exactly! I don’t even know why I’m here. Last I remember, I was making noodles—then bom! Chaos, war, MK disappears, Sun Wukong returns, and boom! Now we’re headed to the Bone Demon’s Temple!”

Sandy, in his massive form, trailed behind to protect the group’s rear. Tang, perched nervously on his shoulder, kept glancing around. DBK stood alert with his axe, watching the mist for hidden threats.

Yellowtusk approached Azure at the front.

Yellowtusk: “There’s a strange energy here, brother. We’re nearing the temple, but… it feels like it’s not us seeking it—but it waiting for us.”

Azure: “I know. I feel it too.”

Suddenly, a child's cry rang out.

Everyone stopped in their tracks.

The sound was close. Very close.

Mei instinctively turned toward the sound. As the mist cleared, they saw a little girl curled at the base of a boulder, crying. Her long, straight black hair was wrapped into a jade-green topknot that ended in sharp curves. She wore a high-collared qixiong ruqun—a white top fastened with two bone-shaped blue buttons, and a long, flowing black skirt. She looked about 9 or 10 years old.

Mei: “Hey! Little girl? Are you lost?”

Mei began to approach, but Macaque quickly stepped in, arm outstretched to stop her.

Macaque: “Wait. This could be a trap. Stay quiet.”

Azure narrowed his eyes and raised a hand to halt the group. Behind him, Peng snorted.

Peng: “Are we really stopping for a child? Is this a joke?!”

But Yellowtusk hushed them.

Yellowtusk: “What if she really needs help? We can’t just leave her.”

Iron Fan was staring at the girl. A deep unease washed over her.

DBK: “Sweetheart, are you alright?”

Iron Fan nodded slightly, eyes never leaving the child.

Macaque crouched down near her and spoke gently.

Macaque: “Hey… little one, are you okay?”

The girl slowly lifted her head. Tear-filled eyes glanced up at the group. She stopped crying, but her voice trembled.

??????: “I… got lost…”

Macaque reached out his hand.

Macaque: “Don’t be afraid. We’re here. We can take you home. Do you know where you live?”

The girl shook her head slowly.

??????: “I don’t have a home. But… I was trying to get to the temple. My mother said it would be there…”

Red Son: “Wait, wait—this kid knows where the temple is?”

Azure stepped forward and gave her a careful look.

Azure: “Which temple? The one deep within the cave?”

She nodded and pointed in a direction.

??????: “The temple of spirits... My mom said there are answers there.”

Macaque smiled softly

Macaque: “What’s your name?”

Bai: “Bai.”

Macaque: “Alright, Bai. Can you take us there? We’re looking for it too.”

The girl nodded and hesitantly stood. A faint, unclear smile formed on her face.

Bai: “This way. The path is confusing, but I know it.”

The team exchanged glances.

Pigsy: “We’re really taking navigation advice from a child?”

Tang: “Well, someone has to know where we are…”

Mei: “Relax. I think we can trust her. Let’s go.”

Bai walked ahead, her steps gentle but sure. The forest around her seemed to lighten slightly as she moved. Now and then, she turned back to smile at Mei before continuing.

After about twenty minutes, the branches thinned. Through the trees, they saw a large courtyard—a gray stone temple surrounded by columns, faded ghost motifs and bones carved into its surface.

Bai: “Here… we’ve arrived.”

The team stared in awe and surprise.

Suddenly, a figure clad in armor emerged from the temple, walking with heavy steps.

He was tall, in gleaming silver armor, holding a spear. His icy blue eyes shone, and the blue hair ornament in his hair echoed the old legions of the Bone Demon.

The figure knelt. Bai stepped behind him.

War Chief: “Welcome… chosen ones who’ve reached the temple. My lady has been expecting you.”

Mei: “Your lady?”

The chief looked up. A strange, sincere smile curved his lips.

As he invited them inside, he continued:

War Chief: “The memory of Lady Bone Demon lives here, within this land. My loyalty belongs to her shadow.”

Peng snorted.

Peng: “Loyalty to a rotten skeleton? That’s rich.”

At his words, the air suddenly chilled.

The little girl turned to Peng, her eyes flashing with merciless emptiness for a brief moment.

So did the War Chief. His smile vanished.

War Chief: “Choose your words carefully. She can hear you… everywhere.”

Mist formed inside the temple.

The girl and the chief exchanged a glance, then both vanished in a sudden gust of wind.

DBK: “Where’d they go?!”

Sandy: “I’ve never seen anything like that before.”

Tang: “It’s not too late to go back, right?”

Mei: “…But we found the temple! We’re close to getting the mirror!”

Yellowtusk (kneeling and placing a hand to the ground): “I can sense the mirror’s energy. But it’s overlapping with others…”

Suddenly, Azure drew his sword.

Azure: “Stay alert. This is where the true trial begins.”

Macaque walked silently ahead. The others followed cautiously.

Inside the ancient temple, their footsteps echoed. The stone walls slowly disappeared under growing mist. Mei paused for a moment, sensing something. Macaque instinctively approached.

Macaque: “What’s wrong?”

Mei: “I don’t know… Feels like we’re being watched.”

As the team continued, suddenly—Mei and Macaque vanished.

Red Son: “Mei?! Macaque?!”

Azure rushed forward, placing his hands on the ground to sense vibrations.

Azure: “This… this is strange…”

Pigsy: “What do you mean strange?! What’s happening?!”

Just then, a metallic sound rang through the mist. The War Chief had returned.

But this time, his polite smile was gone.

His silver armor gleamed. He stabbed his spear into the ground and lunged—a swift, lightning-fast strike!

Yellowtusk raised his hammer, Peng his spear, Sandy blocked with massive arms. Red Son ignited flames in his hands.

But the attack stopped. The chief didn’t move. Then his eerie smile returned.

War Chief: “Enough. I’ve tested your strength.”

Tang was trembling, clutching Pigsy.

Tang: “That… was a test?!”

The chief turned his back and approached a heavy stone door. He placed his hand on the surface, which began to glow.

War Chief: “Come. I will show you the way to end this. Chaos can only be defeated by order. And this chamber… is where order was born.”

The group exchanged hesitant glances, then followed him.

Inside, a giant mosaic covered the floor. The spiraling design showed various scenes—each depicting a character making a sacrifice, another failing to stop them. Some showed the same figure repeating the same choice, with the same tragic result.

Yellowtusk: “Is this… the past? Or the future?”

Peng: “And how exactly is this nonsense supposed to help us?”

The War Chief walked between the mosaic patterns, speaking without turning.

War Chief: “To break cycles, you must understand them. You only want to fight. But some enemies… cannot be defeated by battle.”

Azure: “Then what is this showing us?”

The chief turned. His eyes were sharper, more conscious now.

War Chief: “Chaos is made of losses, broken bonds, and long-held regrets. Each generation has someone who carries the weight. This temple… shows them why the sacrifice repeats. The question now is: Which of you… will choose to end the cycle?”

Silence fell. One by one, the group began to stare into the mosaic.

Red Son saw a scene where his mother once cried.

Iron Fan and DBK witnessed a vision of their son nearly consumed by a final fire.

Sandy met a shadow from his dark past.

Tang and Pigsy faced a truth from a story long untold.

Azure, Yellowtusk, and Peng thought of what had happened to Wukong.

Azure: “Wait! You’re saying—”

Everyone but Sandy, Tang, Red Son, and Pigsy understood—and stared at the War Chief in horror.

Red Son: “What do you mean?!”

The only reply was the War Chief’s quiet laughter.

---

The temple was silent. A deep, ancient silence had sunk into its stone walls.
Wukong walked forward with heavy steps. His mind was spinning.

Wukong: “Xiangliu… he's getting too close to my son. And Xiaotian… he barely respects me anymore. I’m doing everything for him, and still… he keeps pushing me away.”

He stopped. His fists clenched. The doubt in his heart wrapped tighter like a thread woven from darkness.
A memory flashed—MK smiling at Xiangliu, talking cheerfully.
Wukong narrowed his eyes and shook his head with a frustrated grunt.

Then—movement.

A shadow slipped behind a pillar. Wukong’s eyes snapped to it.

Wukong: “Macaque.”

Behind the pillar stood a figure cloaked in black. It hovered in shadow, unmoving.

Wukong smirked with a mocking edge.

Wukong: “All alone in a place like this, Shadow Lord? Or did you miss me so much you just had to haunt this temple?”

No answer. The figure stared silently.

Wukong stepped forward, then suddenly lunged—slamming the figure against the wall, gripping them tight.

Wukong: “Got nothing to say? Or… has guilt finally caught up with you?”

But then—the figure’s eyes turned icy blue.

Wukong froze.

The body he held began to shift—darkening, stretching. Shadowy hands emerged, bones taking shape beneath porcelain-white skin, which soon turned a deathly pale.
Her hair shifted to black.

Her eyes glowed with a cruel, frostbitten blue.

Lady Bone Demon looked at him with eerie calm.

Lady Bone Demon: “Once again, you fall to your impulses, Monkey King. Jealousy, rage, fear of being left behind… You see loyalty as a trap. Even now, you’ve lost yourself—haven’t you?”

Wukong growled.

Wukong: “YOU… What are you doing here?!”

The woman leaned in. Their faces nearly touched.

LBD (softly): “I came to talk. To reach into your mind… beneath everything you’ve buried.
I bring a gift, Wukong. An old memory.”

Her fingers pressed to his forehead—and the world vanished.

The temple dissolved into nothing.

Only a blank, white space remained.

---

Mei opened her eyes to blinding white.

Mei: “What the—?!”

She gripped her sword and scanned the space.

Mei: “Show yourself! Trapping me in here was a huge mistake, you—”

A gentle, feminine laugh echoed through the void.

??????: “Oh, sweet girl. Don’t worry. I’m not here to harm you. I only want to remind you… of some things.”

The voice was soft—calm and warm, almost comforting.

Mei lowered her weapon, but her confusion deepened.

Mei: “What do you mean?”

The woman laughed again—just a little.

??????: “No need to worry, mu dear. Just watch... and remember.”

Before Mei could reply, the white surroundings melted into a scene from her past.

A peaceful green field came into focus.

Standing there—Macaque, younger and less worn down. The fatigue and deep shadows under his eyes weren’t yet present. His gaze held a softness rarely seen.

A few steps away, little MK sat in the grass, reaching up to the sky and making silly monkey noises.

Nearby, baby Mei rolled through the grass, giggling.
Red Son, just a small child, was making robot sounds with a tiny toy to entertain her.

Macaque slowly knelt down, silently watching the children play.

For a brief moment, his eyes glowed with peace.
The rare, gentle smile that touched his lips seemed to soften even the surrounding shadows.

Mei, watching the memory unfold, felt a warm smile creep onto her own face.

But the warmth didn’t last.

The vision darkened. Mist thickened again.

The woman’s voice returned—softer now, almost mournful.

?????? (whispering): "Now… let’s go to the truth. The moment he never told you about… The one he tried to protect you from..."

The sky was overcast. Lightning struck the valleys, and mountains trembled. On the border of the Celestial Realm, a battlefield was forming. Mei blinked rapidly, trying to make sense of the scene.

Two figures stood face to face.

One was Macaque. His eyes were darker, his expression hardened. The other was a massive, elegant green dragon. Its shimmering eyes and water-toned, reflective scales gleamed. When it spread its wings, the sky itself seemed to shrink.

They were fighting.

Mei held her breath.

The dragon spewed green fire, and Macaque countered with shadows. Mountains shook, the sky fractured.

Finally, Macaque found an opening... and used a smoke monster to suffocate the dragon.

The dragon crashed to the ground with a scream. Its wings trembled... and finally fell still.

Silence.

Only a baby’s cry echoed in the distance.

Mei’s eyes widened.

Macaque returned to his normal form and, with trembling hands, walked past the wounded body. Quietly, he stepped toward a cottage. He slowly pushed the door open.

Inside was a cradle.

A tiny baby wrapped in green blankets.

Mei.

Macaque dropped to his knees. He stared in silence for a long while.

Then tears slid down his cheeks. He hesitated, then slowly reached out.

Macaque: "I'm sorry... I... will protect you as best as I can. No matter what."

Gently, so gently, he picked up the baby.

...

Mei screamed and staggered backward.

She fell to the ground, hands clutching her head. Her body lit up with green flames.

Mei: "No... no! She... she was my family! You killed her!"

The flames began consuming the surroundings. The ground cracked. The mist didn’t disperse—it thickened. The woman’s voice continued with surprising softness.

????: "And yet... he protected you. Took every blow since that day. But does that justify what he did? What does your heart say, Mei?"

Mei panted. Tears mixed with the flames, and slowly, her trembling eased. She pressed her hands to her chest. Her heart was shattered, but a voice inside her whispered something else.

Mei: "Despite everything... he's still my family. He protected me... I will never forgive him for killing my family... but... I won’t seek revenge either, and my love for him will never change. Maybe if this hadn’t happened... I would have had a different life. Good or bad doesn’t matter. I’m content with who I am now. I don’t want that to change."

The green flames began to fade. The mist withdrew.

Mei slowly closed her eyes... and a whisper echoed one last time:

????: "Wonderful... Now you may awaken."

===

Mei awoke on the temple’s stone floor, breathless. Her hands trembled, but her gaze was clearer. A deep ache in her chest, but a strange sense of acceptance inside.

She had faced her past.

What she did with it now was up to her.

She picked up her sword and ran to find the others.

===

A mental void surrounded by darkness. Within endless nothingness, echoes of the past drifted silently. When Wukong opened his eyes, he realized he wasn't alone. A silhouette stood beside him—graceful, dignified, with a cold beauty like moonlight.

Lady Bone Demon turned to Wukong. Her eyes shimmered in a cold, moonlit blue.

Lady Bone Demon: "Are you ready, Sun Wukong?"

Her voice was soft but bone-deep.

Lady Bone Demon: "Facing truth is never easy."

Wukong's expression hardened.

Wukong: "Do I have a choice?"

The woman smiled.

And the world changed.

===

In a ruined Celestial Palace, Wukong and the others stood before the Jade Emperor, weapons pointed at each other.

Jade Emperor: "Do you understand the responsibility of this power, Monkey? Someone as arrogant and reckless as you can't handle it."

But Wukong still wore that grin.

Wukong: "I'll build a better, more peaceful world than you ever did. And besides... Your Majesty, you're too old. It's time for new blood."

They clashed.

The battle was fierce, but Wukong emerged victorious.

The Jade Emperor collapsed to his knees, body fading as he passed on his power to Wukong.

The others stared in fear, but Wukong managed to contain the power. When he did, the sky returned to its former brilliance.

Wukong stumbled, and Macaque caught him just in time.

Macaque: "Wukong, you did it!"

Wukong laughed and hugged his friend.

Wukong: "Together, my friend... together."

At first, the others were stunned, then slowly knelt before their new king.

Sun Wukong, in that memory, looked slightly uncomfortable. But he didn’t show it. He returned to watching.

Beneath a bright sunrise, golden steps led to a throne. Celestial beings gathered by the thousands, raising their weapons to the sky in unison to greet their new Jade Emperor.

Wukong ascended slowly, determination in his eyes. He reached out his hand, lifted his chin, and made his vow.

Wukong: "This is my responsibility now. I will build a new world."

His allies stood beside him: Azure, Yellowtusk, Peng, DBK, and Macaque. All looked happy.

Azure laughed.

Azure: "Now we’re really in trouble. But at least someone we love is in charge."

Peng patted his shoulder.

Peng: "You'll let us slide if we break a few rules, right?"

As the brothers laughed, Macaque said nothing. He simply smiled slightly.

Macaque: "Just be careful."

For that moment, everything felt perfect.

Lady Bone Demon bowed her head slightly as she watched.

Lady Bone Demon: "Power doesn't suit everyone... but it suited you. Once."

Wukong's expression didn't change. But his eyes were stuck on his glowing past self.

===

One night, Wukong woke up in fear. Drenched in sweat, his breathing was ragged. He had seen his loved ones vanish in his dreams.

He slipped into the library without waking anyone. Rushing through the shelves, he reached for books about Nuwa, cycles, sacrifice, and ancient prophecy. His fingers paused on a passage:

"Chaos only comes as the end of a cycle. Sacrifice is the only way to stop it."

Wukong stared at those words for a long time. Then slowly turned to his reflection in the mirror.

Wukong: "What does it mean?.."

Lady Bone Demon watched the scene and sighed.

Lady Bone Demon: "You were afraid. Afraid you'd change, lose control, or that the story would end. But you told no one. Because you were alone."

Wukong lowered his head, remaining silent.

===

The next memory was a journey through tall mountains and ancient temples. Wukong and his friends—Azure, Peng, Yellowtusk, and Macaque—were gathering the five-colored stones.

At the site of the final two stones, by a riverbank, a graceful figure appeared: Xiangliu. He was calm, elegant, and terrifyingly polite.

Xiangliu: "Unlike the others, I wish to help you. If you will allow it."

Peng crossed his arms suspiciously.

Peng: "Why? Why help us?"

Xiangliu: "Because the only one who can truly break the cycle is him."

He turned to Wukong. Macaque instinctively felt disturbed.

He said nothing, but dread filled him.

Wukong, however, believed Xiangliu in that moment.

Wukong: "If you really know how to fix this, then fine. Join us."

Lady Bone Demon commented with a smile:

Lady Bone Demon: "For the first time, you felt like the chosen one. Like you could fix everything."

When the last stone was taken, they reached the Heavenly Pillar—the place where all cycles began, where every fate was bound.

Xiangliu turned slowly to Wukong.

Xiangliu: "To restore balance, someone must offer themselves to the cycle. Without sacrifice, it cannot be broken. That someone... must be you."

Azure shouted in fury.

Azure: "Nonsense!"

Yellowtusk hesitated.

Yellowtusk: "It sounds fair... but is sacrifice really the only way?"

But Macaque yelled loudest.

Macaque: "No! You’ve already given too much. You can't do this!"

Wukong turned to them all, tears in his eyes.

Wukong: "This is my choice. One last time... I will stop it."

Without another word, he walked to the Heavenly Pillar. As his hand reached into the light, the sky exploded in white.

Lady Bone Demon closed her eyes and whispered:

Lady Bone Demon: "And in that moment, they lost you... The real you died that day."

Wukong held his breath. For the first time, he truly felt something.

When Wukong stepped onto the Celestial Pillar, the air shifted. Silence swallowed the universe. Each step echoed in the endless void. At the center of the pillar, a figure woven from light appeared — graceful, dignified, and powerful enough to hold reality together.

Nuwa.

The ancient creator goddess smiled at him.

Nuwa: "You've done it at last, Wukong. Very few could have come this far. I'm proud of you."

Wukong's eyes sparkled.

Wukong: "Everyone will be safe now, right?"

Nuwa stayed silent. Then, in a soft yet heavy tone:

Nuwa: "Everyone... will start over. That is what the cycle demands. No one will remember anything. It’s the only way I can protect them."

Wukong's eyes widened.

Wukong: "No... I wanted to protect them! To stop their suffering!"

In that moment, the pillar's energy shifted. Confused, Wukong stumbled back, as if trying to flee. But a rift opened before his eyes. Time and space bent — and suddenly, he fell into the Realm of Chaos.

Alone in the swirling void, where colors distorted and reality unraveled, an immense, shapeless being appeared.

Hundun.

It had no face, but it had a voice — echoing from everywhere.

"You called me... didn’t you, little king?"

Wukong panicked.

Wukong: "No! I... I didn’t mean to!"

The god laughed, a sound that cracked the very world.

"They all used you. You became their hope, then they abandoned you. Was their sacrifice worth it?"

Wukong's mind trembled. Reality and nightmare blurred.

Wukong: "I just... wanted to help..."

Laughter roared in his skull until he blacked out.

When he opened his eyes, he was lying among his comrades. Azure, Peng, Macaque, DBK — all surrounded him.

Azure held him.

Azure: "Wukong? Are you okay?"

Macaque: "Are you hurt?"

Wukong slowly looked at them.

Wukong: "I'm... tired..."

Arms meant to embrace him faltered. But then, Xiangliu emerged from the crowd. As his gaze met Wukong's, the monkey's pupils flashed orange for a split second.

No one noticed.

But Lady Bone Demon, watching the memory, whispered to herself:

Lady Bone Demon: "And the rotten seed was sown that day."

Wukong was clenching his fist so tightly, he didn’t notice his hand was trembling.

=====

Days passed. Xiangliu was officially made an advisor to the Celestial Court. Azure scowled, Macaque said nothing, and Peng wouldn't even look at him.

But Wukong... never left his side.

Xiangliu often spoke with him in private, whispering about the "true nature" of the universe.

Xiangliu: "Chaos is beautiful, Wukong. It's the essence of all things. Without collapse, there can be no rebirth."

And Wukong... was beginning to believe him.

One day, as they stood overlooking the horizon, Xiangliu said something that shook Wukong.

Xiangliu: "There is another who grew from the same stone as you... the same power. The same fate. Just a child."

Wukong sprang up, panic on his face.

Wukong: "He... he must not end up like me. We have to find him..."

They departed together. Wukong anxious. Xiangliu calm... and quietly smiling.

After that, no one heard from them again.

Months passed.

Then, the stone on Flower-Fruit Mountain cracked. And from it emerged a tiny baby.

Xiaotian.

The team searched immediately. But Wukong was gone. So was Xiangliu. Only the broken stone and cold, silent mountain remained.

Apparently, they had taken the child.

=====

Two years later, Wukong was found. Alone. Screaming at the sky, his powers surging uncontrollably. Darkness danced around him, symbols of Chaos etched in the air.

When the Brotherhood found him, their faces were filled with horror.

But mostly... worry.

Macaque: "Wukong, stop!"

But Wukong laughed maniacally, grinning at them.

Wukong: "Ah, so my dear brothers came to stop me... Well then! Come and try!"

After a fierce battle between him and Macaque, Yellowtusk discovered a ritual. With the help of the Brotherhood and Iron Fan, they performed it to strip Wukong of the Jade Emperor's power and transfer it to Azure.

And in that moment, everything changed.

Macaque didn’t want to. But there was no other choice.

Macaque: "I'm sorry..."

And he sealed Wukong into a scroll.

When the battle ended, Macaque clutched the scroll to his chest and took the crying baby Xiaotian in his arms. He held him close and walked away.

Meanwhile, Xiangliu disappeared without a trace.

As Wukong watched in shock and horror, Lady Bone Demon returned him to reality.

When the vision faded, only Wukong’s weary form and Lady Bone Demon’s glowing eyes remained.

Lady Bone Demon: "You have seen the fragments of your past. What is it you want to reclaim, Wukong? Power? Family? Or... forgiveness?"

Wukong didn’t answer.

But his hands trembled slightly.

He took a deep breath. His chest rising and falling as thoughts swirled in his mind. He struggled to understand, to separate truth from dream. His eyes narrowed; he clutched his chest.

Black, ink-like veins of Chaos began to spread from his heart. They turned blackish-orange, and his muscles tensed involuntarily. Something was breaking.

Wukong: "What... is happening to me?

He grumbled, his voice filled with both sorrow and agony.

Wukong: “This power… it’s still inside me. This must be Xiangliu’s doing…”

He dropped to his knees. His breath quickened, one hand clutching his forehead while the other clawed at the ground. Anger and exhaustion twisted across his face as chaotic whispers stormed through his mind. For a brief moment, his pupils flared with a burning orange glow—then faded again.

Lady Bone Demon watched him in silence. Her face showed no contempt, no mercy—only… an endless calm.

Then, she stepped forward. Her cold fingers reached out once more, pressing against his chest. She closed her eyes. Whispered a silent incantation.

The chaos wound inside him trembled, as if being pulled out. The blackened veins slowly began to fade, the inky markings on his body receding. The ache in his chest lessened. Wukong took a deep breath.

The pain had eased.

Suddenly, he looked up, dazed. Staring at her in disbelief.

Wukong: “You… why did you do that? You drew out the chaos in me… why?”

Lady Bone Demon took a step back. Her eyes were still frozen, like winter frost. Her voice echoed—calm, emotionless.

Lady Bone Demon: “I am merely hastening the path of fate.”

She said nothing more.

Then, spirits coiled around her body. Her figure faded into a misty blur, leaving behind only a chilling silence. Wukong remained on his knees, unmoving.

He stayed like that for a while. Shutting his eyes to drown out the buzzing void in his mind. Then slowly, he stood up.

The pain in his body was gone… but inside, the turmoil had sunk into a deeper stillness.

==================

Macaque wandered alone through the stone pillars. The temple's dark corridors stretched endlessly, the echoes twisting enough to make him forget where he was going. Voices whispered his name—old memories, suppressed emotions—seeping out from the walls.

Macaque: “Mei? Iron Fan? Azure?!”

No answer.

Just as he took a step forward, the ground cracked open and thick, dark-orange chaos chains burst out, wrapping tightly around his wrists, ankles, and waist. Before he could scream, he was yanked to the ground, the chains glowing ominously.

Macaque: “Tch—! What the…?!”

From the shadows, three figures emerged. The first walked with a sinister chill—Xiangliu. Behind him was MK, wearing an eerily unreadable expression… and at the very back, approaching quietly, eyes filled with concern—Wukong.

Xiangliu smiled.

Xiangliu: “Ah, Macaque…”

His voice was smooth—like rotting silk.

Xiangliu: “You’re truly a rare gem. The darkness of shadow, the reflection of loyalty… and all those broken beliefs inside you. What a perfect weapon you would make.”

Macaque gritted his teeth, struggling against the chains—but it was futile.

Macaque: “Stay away from me!”

Xiangliu stepped closer.

Xiangliu: “Don’t be afraid… This isn’t an end, Macaque. The contradiction inside you—it’s beautiful. You want to protect, but also resent. A perfect paradox...”

As he raised his hand to corrupt Macaque with chaos energy, Wukong lunged forward and grabbed Xiangliu’s arm, yanking him back.

Wukong: “Enough! You’ve been evil from the start. They were right about you. You deceived everyone—me, my son… and now you want to take him too?”

Xiangliu tilted his head slightly, meeting Wukong’s gaze without a hint of concern.

Xiangliu: “I only gave you what you needed, Wukong. Power, choices, a path. And it’s those choices that led you here.”

Then, Xiangliu reached out and pressed his hand against Macaque’s forehead, letting chaos energy pour into him. Wukong gritted his teeth and slammed Xiangliu into the wall, gripping him by the throat. Xiangliu coughed with a twisted laugh, then collapsed to the ground, pretending to be weak and wounded.

MK: “Dad! Stop!”

MK rushed forward, eyes filled with fear.

MK: “You hurt him! Why do you keep hurting everyone?! You’re… you’re horrible!”

Wukong stared at his son in panic.

Wukong: “Xiaotian—no!”

He tried to reach him with his voice, desperation in every word.

Wukong: “He’s manipulating you. Please, listen to me—he’s lying. He—”

But MK had already pulled back. Xiangliu calmly extended his hand, and MK returned to his side. His eyes were faintly glowing orange with chaos.

Xiangliu: “I’m done with him.”

His voice was gentle, yet decayed like spoiled wine.

Xiangliu: “Now it’s your turn, Liu’er Mihou.”

Chaos surged once again into Macaque’s mind. The shadow monkey screamed and writhed, his eyes turning orange, chains cracking around him. A psychic hum sliced through the air.

And then—the chains shattered. Macaque collapsed to the ground…

…but he wasn’t the same anymore.

He opened his eyes, utterly empty.

Xiangliu approached slowly, extending his hand.

Xiangliu: “The lantern.”

Macaque obediently handed it to him. Then, he walked to the mirror in the center of the room and took that too.

Wukong, gathering the last of his strength, lunged at them—but Xiangliu narrowed his eyes and cast a spell, squeezing his heart with invisible magic. Wukong dropped to his knees in agony.

Wukong: “A-AH—!”

Clutching his chest, struggling to breathe, the spell pierced his heart like a blade. MK looked back once, gazing at his father.

But said nothing.

Xiangliu turned to Macaque.

Xiangliu: “Teleport us.”

And with a flash of orange light, Xiangliu, MK, and Macaque—along with the lantern and the mirror—vanished.

Silence returned. Only Wukong remained, breathing raggedly, his chest still trembling…

Moments later, the temple doors burst open, and the others rushed in.

Azure was the first to see him.

Azure: “Wukong?!”

They rushed to his side. Red Son glanced around, taking in the damage.

Red Son: “What happened here?! The mirror—it's gone. And Macaque too!”

When Iron Fan noticed the lantern missing as well, her face went pale.

Iron Fan: “This… this was part of their plan…”

Wukong’s consciousness slowly returned. A single word slipped from his lips.

Wukong: “Xiaotian…”

As Azure gently lifted his half-conscious brother, Peng smacked his forehead with a groan.

Peng: “Well, we’re officially fucked."