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Chapter Text

Xiangliu: The thing you need to understand about the old legends is that the story is never finished. There may be no pages left to turn, but there is always more to the journey.

In a village everyone lived their peaceful lives, and no one seemed to notice the danger that was coming.

Xiangliu: Rising from the Netherworld, Yaoji attacked.

As the sky took on a greenish-blue hue, a Celestial Fairy appeared above, armed and standing on water.

Xiangliu: No one could stop her, no one could resist. No one except... the legendary Dragon Soldier.

A young woman appeared in the air. She had short black hair at chin length, two small pigtails, straight bangs, and two green streaks framing her face. The back of her hair stuck up from the roots. The silhouette of her hair even resembled a dragon's head. Her eyes were emerald, a vivid green like a flame. She wore a battle-ready hanfu in white and green. The hanfu had green strips running down the spine, the waist, and the sleeves all the way to the hem of the skirt. But those green strips were not fabric — they were scales.

Xiangliu: The Dragon Soldier used her magical blade to pick up a nearby mountain. She trapped Yaoji underneath it. The Dragon Soldier sealed the mountain with the blade that no other being could wield, trapping the Yaoji forever. With the battle won, the Dragon Soldier vanished, never to be seen again. Legend says the blade still lies on top of that mountain, the one thing keeping our world from certain destruction. And with the Yaoji gone, civilization was able to advance into the amazing city we now live in. A world of elegant cultures, gentle loving people, a city brimming with five-star cuisine, and all because of the Dragon Soldier.

After finishing the description of the pale-skinned, orange-eyed demon with nine snakes in his hair, he turned back into a monkey and smiled proudly.

Macaque jumped up from his seat in excitement.

Macaque had a darker wheat-colored skin tone. He had gold eyes highlighted with a prominent red eyeshadow wing and thick black brows. His hair was black with white streaks despite his youth. He wore a thin black sweater and red trousers. Over that he had a ripped red cloak draped like a cape, and black-and-gold boots.

Macaque: Oh, that's so good! Dragon Soldier's so cool! She's so strong and beautiful-

Xiangliu chuckled at the delivery boy.

Xiangliu: Ah, Liu'er. And you think you know all the Dragon Soldier stories.

But Macaque calmly appeared beside him holding a very thick book with purple and green covers.

Macaque: Oh, but I do. I got her whole life documented extensively in this unauthorized autobiography of Dragon Soldier. Written and illustrated by yours truly. Like I knew she was came from a dragon lineage and lived behind a cave with her cute little dragon friends! And- and- and oh!

Xiangliu couldn't help but smile at the young boy's energy.

Xiangliu: It's nice to know someone's taking in all these stories. Pearls of wisdom, dripping from my lips.

Then he cleared her throat.

Xiangliu: Well, you know the deal: one story, one free Chinese Pastry. Hmm?

Macaque adjusted his book like it had just occurred to him, looked at her, then nodded and took a plate of Chinese Pastry from the table.

MacaqueHuh? Oh right, free pastry! Yep, on it. How heavy do you think a mountain is? Compare to like-

As Macaque reached for the plate, someone threw a knife at him.

??????: Free pastry?

The monkey's fur was pure white, his eyes gleamed gold. His outfit was a long and elegant hanfu. The color palette was white, pale green, and pastel pink, giving him a soft, peaceful aura. There were gold button details on the upper part. A black sash with a dragon motif wrapped his waist. White floral decorations adorned the sash and the skirt area. The sleeves were black at the underside, tied at the wrists with pink bands and decorated with pearls. The skirt was layered: the inner layer was dark gray, the outer layer pale green with pink patterns. Green stone motifs appeared at the hem. His shoes had pointed toes, set on a black base with pearls and blue stone details at the front. Overall the attire was graceful, balanced, and had a mystical decorative feel.

Tong Bei: No one gets a free meal at
Tong Bei's! I'm not running a charity here, Xiangliu!

But the snake-demon pushed his friend lightly and looked at him with calm.

Xiangliu: Ah, but Bei, I was paying with wisdom. Also maybe you should start a "charity."

Xiangliu smiled confidently at herself, while Tong Bei foamed at the mouth with anger.

Tong Bei: Yeah? Well, wisdom don't pay the rent, you freeloader! And you!

Macaque went on high alert as Tong Bei walked up to him.

Tong Bei: You've been slacking off all morning! I've got a dozen orders that need to go out, so quit slacking and get packing!

Macaque averted his gaze, rubbing his nape.

Macaque: Actually I just finished my shift and was about to take a break. So...

But Tong Bei cut him off.

Tong Bei: Break? Break?! There's no break in war! I need workers. Soldiers in the army of Pigsy's Noodles, home of the world's longest noodles. How else am I gonna expand my business into enemy territory?

Tong Bei and a chef across the way exchanged deadly glares while Macaque stepped between them.

Macaque: Uh, do you mean the street across?

Tong Bei: I stand by my statement! Now, hurry up!

Tong Bei shoved the poor boy and noticed Xiangliu taking bites of the pastries on the table.

His eyes narrowed and he grabbed a knife, which was enough to scare Xiangliu.

Tong Bei: Hey, get back here, you coward!

Xiangliu: No, Bei!

Tong Bei: I want my money!

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

Macaque had suddenly arrived at a construction site on his motorcycle.

It felt strange to him but later he thought maybe it's a builder.

When he arrived he felt a strange sensation inside, like he had to find something, and he started moving forward.

But when he saw something unusual he stopped.

A man and a young boy were standing by a mountain with several Celestial Guard-like bots around them.

The man wore a special battle hanfu in black.

The young boy had black hair down past his shoulders, a face with cuts and fight scars, a mark on his forehead like a third eye, and wore golden armor.

Yang Shu: It feels like I've waited an eternity for this moment. Is everything in order?

Erlang: Just making the final adjustments, father.

Macaque quickly hid behind some rocks.

Yang Shu: Finally, after all this time, we have the means to lift Dragon Soldier's legendary blade.

Macaque's eyes shone as he looked at the sword.

Macaque: Wow. The Dragon Soldier's Blade.

Macaque sneaked up, climbed some pipes, watched from there, smiled fondly at his dragon companion, and then both descended.

Yang Shu: My love will finally be returned, once we remove the blade.

They noticed something.

Yang Shu: Huh?

A Celestial Bot climbed to the mountain's peak and tried to pull out the Dragon Sword. But it couldn't and its arms burned up. It screamed and fell to the ground. Erlang looked at its arms to see what happened. Erlang smiled evilly.

Erlang: You fool. You think we didn't try that already? It's going to take more than a few robots to lift the Dragon Soldier's blade. Only those deemed worthy can wield it.

Then Erlang summoned a Power Glove and smirked proudly.

Erlang: But I, Erlang Shen, have designed this gauntlet to bend it to my will.

Erlang climbed the mountain and grabbed the sword with the Power Glove. He struggled to lift it until it came free, and finally he pulled the sword out.

Erlang: Yes! I did it!

The bot that had burned its arms watched sadly while the Celestial Bots clapped. But nothing happened.

Erlang: What?! Why isn't anything happening?! Father, are you sure this is the right mountain?

Yang Shu rubbed his forehead in disappointment.

Yang Shu: No, maybe it was that other mountain with a magical blade sealing away my wife!

They all noticed the mountain crack as Yaoji freed herself while trying to escape.

Erlang: Yes mother! Rise! Rise!

Erlang began laughing as Yaoji managed to escape.

Yaoji: Flesh. Bone. I have returned to the realm of the living.

Macaque watched all this while also staring at the dragon.

Macaque: What do you want from me, my cute friend?

Down below, the conversation continued.

Yang Shu: Ah, Yaoji! How I've missed you.

Yaoji: My dear! The years have been kind. How did you free me?

Just as the man was about to speak his son blocked him.

Erlang: Actually, it was I, Mother. I moved the blade. I learned how to harness it, to make its power mi-

His mother moved toward him with pride.

Erlang: O-Our power.

Yaoji looked at him proudly.

Yaoji: Perfect.

Erlang: Now, we, the Yang family, will plunge the world into eternal darkness!

The dragon suddenly let out a cry and sent Macaque crashing down onto Erlang.

Macaque got up and saw the Yang Family and the Celestial Bots around him. He anxiously grabbed the pastry package.

Macaque: Someone ordered some pastries?

Erlang: Get off me, you fool!

Golden energies flowed from him and threw Macaque aside.

Erlang: Argh, do you know what you just did?! You ruined my moment!

Yaoji drew her weapon and looked at the boy with hostility.

Yaoji: A little eavesdropper has fallen into our midst. It seems a waste to crush something so insignificant as my first act as ruler of this new world, but so be it.

Just as Yaoji was about to crush the child, her son stopped her.

Erlang: Wait, mother.

Yaoji: What is this?

Erlang: Ahem. Waste not your energy on this pathetic creature. Please, allow me to show you how powerful I have become in your absence!

Yaoji smirked and put her weapon away.

Yaoji: As you wish.

While Macaque tried to escape, he whispered to himself.

Macaque: Maybe I can use this chance to get away.

Erlang: In some ways, you're very fortunate, Shadow Boy! Not many insects are lucky enough to be stamped out by the Yang Family.

Macaque heard a whisper behind him and turned toward the blade.

Whisper: The Dragon Soldier's blade.

When Erlang realized Macaque wasn't listening he drew his spear.

Erlang: Are you even listening to mw?! I, Erlang Shen, will not be disrespected! You are history!

He swung his spear at Macaque, but Macaque blocked it by lifting the blade.

Erlang: No way! How could you possibly lift Dragon Soldier's blade?

Macaque looked at the blade with admiration.

Yang Shu: This is impossible.

Erlang: I don't what's going on here, but I'm about to end it. That blade is mine!

Macaque: I'm supposed to be on my break!

The blade pointed at them and suddenly a burst of green light shot from it, knocking Erlang and the Celestial Bots away.

Yaoji: This can't be.

Macaque: Uh, that was way more explosive than I expected.

Yang Shu planted his sword into the ground.

Macaque: Stay back! I don't know how I'm doing this stuff!

Yang Shu: That blade doesn't belong to you, shadow. Surrender it.

Macaque looked at the sword and thought.

Macaque: Hmm... no?

A green and purple energy started to form on the sword.

Macaque: Okay, I didn't even move that t-

Then a flame at the tip of the sword launched him into the air.

Yang Shu: He can't escape with that blade!

Yaoji grunted angrily.

Yaoji: Centuries trapped in oblivion, plotting my revenge and all of it thwarted by a little thief?! I will tear the flesh from his bones!

Erlang: Mother, allow me. I won't fail you a second time.

Yaoji looked at her son with dark intent; her eyes shone a deadly gold.

Yaoji: See that you don't. My patience is past its end.

Erlang bowed before her.

Erlang: Of course, mother.

Then Erlang flew off after him.

After Macaque landed he quickly jumped on his motorbike and sped away. Erlang shot off from the construction site and pursued Macaque.

Erlang: Okay Dragon Kid, hand it over!

Macaque looked for something in his pocket to stop the celestial thing and found the pastries.

Macaque: I'm sorry, valued customer. You won't be getting your pastries.

He threw the pastries at Erlang's face and they smacked into him.

Macaque: Damn.

Erlang wiped the pastries off his face.

Erlang: Fine! Have it your way!

Macaque: Ah! Leave me alone!

Erlang slammed into the back of the motorcycle causing the sword to react again and launch Macaque high into the sky. Macaque fell onto a building and bounced building to building. Erlang was still in the sky.

Erlang: Would you get down here so I can kill you?!

Macaque: Never!

He fell onto one of the buildings.

Macaque: Ah, sorry!

Macaque left the building and managed to shake Erlang off. Then he laughed proudly.

Macaque: I think I lost him!

But suddenly Erlang's laughter rang behind him and he got angry.

Macaque: Damn it.

He rode until he saw someone on a Cloud Throne.

Macaque: So sorry! I really need to borrow this! Bye!

Just as he almost collided with Erlang, Erlang arrived right beside him.

Erlang: I'm coming to get you, Dragon Kid!

Erlang laughed, and Macaque rode his Cloud Board through the unfinished road of a truck.

Macaque: Come on, how did you do that!?

Erlang: What? Do you think I couldn't smell your stench from a mile away even if the route was complicated?

Erlang almost caught the monkey. But Macaque quickly grabbed onto him from above. Erlang tried to throw the delivery boy off, but Macaque relaxed until he saw the end of the road.

Macaque: Ahhh!

They both fell off buildings until someone riding a monkey-shaped bicycle rescued them.

Erlang: You've got to be kidding me!

Macaque and his friend sped off before Erlang crashed into a building.

Everyone looked up at the young celestial in fear as Erlang unleashed a burst of golden energy.

Erlang: Dragon Kid! When I find you, I'm gonna bust you into little bits!

Chapter Text

Macaque and his friend had landed in front of the shop.

While Macaque dusted himself off, his friend took off his helmet, fixed his hair, and took a selfie.

It was a monkey—almost like Macaque himself. His body and tail were covered in orange fur, and peach-colored skin marked his chest, face, ears, knees, hands, and feet. The fur on his head was either slicked back or spiked upwards depending on his look. On his face was a pink, heart-shaped marking, golden eyes with striped wings in them, and thick black eyebrows. He wore a honey-colored cardigan with blue stripes, a black T-shirt, and red pants. His boots were much flashier than Macaque’s.

??????: Nailed it!

Macaque: Wukong!

Wukong grabbed the monkey’s hands and hugged him.

Wukong: Mhm! That was an intense game of tag. You guys looked like you were having so much fun. I wanted to join in too!

Macaque tensed slightly at his friend’s innocence.

Macaque: I almost died back there.

Wukong: But you didn't. So let's celebrate with a round of Dragon Avatar!

He pointed excitedly at an arcade machine with a green dragon avatar on it.

Wukong: You should invite your new edgy friend, too.

As Wukong smiled innocently, Macaque rolled his eyes.

Macaque: Yeah, let me remind you—he was trying to kill me.

Wukong: Well in that case...

As he turned with a dark look in his eyes, he began loading bullets into a tiny hunting rifle.

Wukong: Where does he live, darling? Look, I only get three shots, so think carefully, okay? Oh! You’re so cute!

Just then, Tong Bei appeared, and the two monkeys turned toward the angry figure. Wukong immediately tossed the hunting rifle away.

Tong Bei: Liu’er Mihou! Where are you, you punk? You mind telling me why some bozo left a zero-star review on Tong Bei's Pastrys?

Macaque tried to explain but honestly didn’t know where—or how—to start.

Macaque: Oh! Uh, yeah. So, uh, here's what I think happened with that-

But Wukong was delighted, even though he didn’t understand it was a bad thing. He hugged Tong Bei.

Wukong: Woah, zero stars! Congrats! That's better than nothing, right?

Tong Bei struggled to get free of the stone monkey, furious.

Tong Bei: That’s not how this works, Wukong! And you! I—

He turned to the boy, but Macaque was no longer there.

Tong Bei: Where'd he go?

Macaque was already running toward the shop with a sword in hand.

Macaque: XIANGLIU YOU MOTHERFUCKER!

Tong Bei: Don't you run away when I'm trying to scold you!  AND DON’T SWEAR! Get back—

But his words were cut off as the door slammed shut behind Macaque.

---

On a rooftop, a rowdy uncle and his violent nephew were playing a board game.
Rowdy uncle moved a piece and the violent nephew lost. And the knives came out. (“We have peace at home—” ah, family.)

Witchy Aunt: Oh, dude! Not again!

The next scene slid over to the Celestial Boots heading to the Golden Foundry, where their armor was forged.

Yaoji sat on a throne, wearing new armor crafted by her son.

Erlang: And... that should about do it!

Yaoji tried to rise, but the armor was too heavy.

Yaoji: It's… heavy.

Erlang: That's because it isn't powered up, yet. The suit absorbs energy to create energy. And what better source than the magic blade that kept you underground?

The celestial fairy gave her son a side-eye.

Yaoji: You mean the blade that you lost?

Erlang looked away, embarrassed.

Erlang: Uh, yeah- it was the cursed shadow! I—

Yang Shu walked over, chuckling softly.

Yang Shu: Oh, don't toy with him, my love. We will get it back. I have Celestial Bots scouring the city. It's only a matter of time.

Erlang: And while we wait, the furnace can convert other things into energy.

He tossed a face shield into the blazing furnace, making Yaoji scream.

Erlang: The more rare the item, the more powerful Mother will become. And once we have that blade, she will be unstoppable!

Once Yaoji calmed, she sat again and began browsing through shops.

Yaoji: Now to find something rare and expensive. Something to give me the power I deserve.

---

Xiangliu was sitting in the shop eating his dumpling when the boy barged in, making him spit crumbs everywhere—and nearly choke.

Macaque: Xiangliu! They’re gonna fuck me up—now is not the time to die!

The Nine-Headed Demon wiped his mouth.

Xiangliu: Hm? Die my ass!

Macaque frantically searched the counter.

Macaque: Remember the story you told me this morning? About the Yaoji? Argh, where is it? Where is it? Where is it?

He found his book under a pile of plates, knocking the whole thing over—but didn’t give a damn.

Meanwhile, Wukong was struggling to hold Tong Bei back.

Tong Bei: Ahh, Liu’er! What the hell are you doing to my kitchen?!

But Macaque ignored him, shoving a badly anime-drawn picture of the Celestial Fairy into one of Xiangliu’s front snake eyes. The poor beast cried out in pain, so he shoved it into another eye.

Macaque: Ah, there it is. Yaoji, see?

Xiangliu: Yeah? But I think you just blinded Xi-Xi—

Still munching his dumpling, Xiangliu stayed nonchalant.

Xiangliu: So what about her?

Suddenly Macaque lunged at him. The snakes in Xiangliu’s hair panicked, trying to flee.

Macaque: The Yaoji is back! The legend is real! The Dragon Soldier's blade is removed! We have to find her! It's the only way to save everyone before the world is destr-

Xiangliu shoved the fanatic brat back with chopsticks.

Xiangliu: Boy, relax. You're getting spittle in my food. Besides, you're delusional. It's just a story.

Macaque: Delusional, huh? Would you call this delusional?!

He revealed the sword, leaving everyone stunned.

Wukong: Wow. I didn’t know there were fan-made replicas of the Dragon Soldier’s blade, Mihou!

Macaque: No, this IS the Dragon Soldier’s blade!

The trio burst out laughing as Macaque stomped around in frustration.

Macaque: You aren't listening! Yaoji is out there. We have to get the blade back to the Dragon Soldier! It's the real deal. I'll prove it.

Tong Bei looked at him skeptically.

Tong Bei: Oh yeah? How?

Macaque: Uh…

“How”… the only question Macaque couldn’t answer. He stared at the blade, then held it close, pointing it at the table between Xiangliu and Wukong. Suddenly the blade glowed green, unleashing a laser that sliced the table in two. Then he slammed it into the ground.

Xiangliu stared at the weapon in awe.

Xiangliu: Dragon Soldier's Blade! I knew it all along! The legendary weapon that only she could wield to seal away evil! Wait a minute. Why do you have it?

The others also turned to Macaque, now convinced.

Tong Bei: All right, I'll bite. If the blade is here, then where is the fairy bastard now?

Wukong, scrolling on his phone, answered.

Wukong: She's at the shoe store.

Team: What?!

As the others appeared beside him, Tong Bei glared angrily at Wukong.

Tong Bei: This is better not be another one of your monkey cub videos, Wukong!

Wukong giggled while scrolling.

Wukong: There's always time for a monkey cub video, but no. Look what just started trending. Hashtag Yaoji!

---

At a shoe store, Erlang and Yaoji walked up to the clerk.

Erlang: Ahem, we're here for the new Yeelzebub shoes.

Shoe Store Clerk: Yep, you and everyone else. Head to the back of the line.

Erlang frowned at the massive line, one guy even shouting “yes!” The line was four kilometers long, for fuck’s sake.

This annoyed the demigod, and he turned angrily to the clerk.

Erlang: Do you know who she is? That's the Her Majesty Yaoji you're talking to

Yaoji gently pulled her son back behind her.

Shoe Store Clerk: Uh-huh, yeah, that's cool. Why don't you tell that to the people at the back of the line?

Yaoji smiled sweetly, though her smile was laced with malice.

Yaoji: But you could just give me the shoes right now, couldn’t you? We don’t have much time, and trust me—the less you resist, the better for you.

But the clerk didn’t take her seriously.

Shoe Store Clerk: Uh, you still have to wait in line, I'm sorry.

Yaoji’s smile twisted into something darker as her golden eyes gleamed.

Yaoji: Watch me.

In an instant, her armor absorbed most of the shoes in the store, making her stronger. She picked one up.

Yaoji: You know what's better than limited edition? One of a kind.

She struck a stylish pose with her son, laughing sweetly yet manically.

---

A small dragon flew toward the city Yaoji had just destroyed, leaving trails of green light behind.

Meanwhile, Yaoji was busy fucking up every family in the city—and don’t worry, the first ones she took out were that board-game family :D

Her armor was absorbing every damn thing. Like she was licking ice cream, the crazy bitch.

Erlang Shen stood on a rooftop, watching his mother.

Erlang Shen: Yes. With every item absorbed, my family comes one step closer to total domination! Once we get the Dragon Soldier's blade, we will be unstoppable!

---

Macaque and the crew were speeding along in the food truck. Tong Bei was proving himself a traffic menace.

Macaque: Very tight!

Xiangliu: Bei, watch where you're going! You're gonna kill us!

Then Macaque pulled out a purple notebook, showing pages about Mei.

Macaque: Right, we need to reach the Jade Temple without getting smushed in a car crash. All we have to do is pass through the Circle of Flames. Simple.

Suddenly Wukong showed them his phone with a worried look.

Wukong: Guys! Yaoji has moved onto downtown. She's destroying the spicy tea stalls!

Macaque gripped the book so hard it nearly tore, the blade starting to glow as the others backed away a little.

Macaque: All the more reason to get this blade back to Dragon Soldier. Jade Temple. It's the only place she could be. Right, Xiangliu?

It wasn’t a question.

The serpent demon nodded coolly.

Xiangliu: Indeed. Jade Temple lies hidden in a region cloaked in dangerous, unknown flames. So I guess we better turn back!

Wukong & Macaque: What?!

Tong Bei suddenly spoke up.

Tong Bei: Shut it, you big baby. I know a guy that can take us there. The most dangerous, deadly, raged-filled warrior I've ever known.

Wukong, Macaque & Xiangliu: Ahh!

Tong Bei parked the truck at a harbor.

Tong Bei: Chi Jiao.

Chapter Text

The team trembled with fear when they saw the red monkey holding a knife. Macaque was already whispering every prayer he knew to Xiangliu.

The red monkey’s skin was paler, his eyes golden, and on his face burned a wild heart-shaped mark. He wore a flamboyant, multi-layered costume in traditional Chinese hanfu style. The upper part was bright red satin, embroidered with intricate golden thread patterns. The collar stood tall, fastening with ribbon ties at the front. Flowing from his shoulders were wide sleeves made of sheer black tulle, their edges lined with gold. The upper arms glittered with tassels, jeweled ornaments, and golden embroidery. Around his waist was a thick, crossed belt of red and gold embroidery, with a small red tassel dangling from its center. His lower half was clad in a long, black, layered skirt-like robe that reached the floor, trimmed with golden-red accents. Around his neck—just like Macaque—he wore a crimson scarf.

Xiangliu bit his lip while Tong Bei glanced at him, sulking like a child.

Chi Jiao: That's a lot to take in. You know what I do to people who disrupt the peace?

Wukong, Xiangliu, and Tong Bei all pointed to Macaque. He was the only human there, after all. Macaque looked left and right nervously, clutching the blade. He was barely holding back a scream.

But then, the demon smiled and presented… a coffee set. Everyone was both shocked and relieved—except Tong Bei.

Chi Jiao: Serve them coffee! Would you like some? You? What about you, sir? Hm? Hm?

Xiangliu raised his hand.

Xiangliu: Oh, yes! Don't mind if I do.

While Wukong petted one of the baby monkeys, he turned to the confused Tong Bei.

Wukong: Ah, you’re right, Tong, this guy is dangerous. He'll kill us with cuteness!

He plopped one of Jiao’s monkeys on Tong Bei’s head.

Chi Jiao: This is my energetic coffee recipe. Really gets the heart racing.

Tong Bei: Chi? What happened to you?

Suddenly, Tong Bei grabbed his old friend’s scarf and shouted.

Tong Bei: Where's the angry, glass-chewing, fist-throwing buddy I used to know?!

But Chi Jiao remained calm as he explained.

Chi Jiao: Oh, well, my therapist said I really needed to calm down. That's why I started drinking coffe. Doing yoga. Investing in therapy monkeys. Really helps. Oh, don't you, Sha Shou?

("Sha Shou" means Killer/Assassin in Chinese.)

Chi Jiao turned and smiled at a sweet, snow-white little monkey.

At that moment, Wukong and Macaque finally decided to speak up.

Wukong: Ah, Mr. Chi, sir.

Wukong knelt first.

Wukong: We could really use your help. We've gotta get to Jade Temple!

Macaque knelt too.

Macaque: Please, the fate of the world is at state.

Both made kitten-like pleading faces. Chi Jiao smiled.

Chi Jiao: Ok!

The two looked at him suspiciously.

Macaque: Really, dude?

Chi Jiao: Anything for Tong Bei. I can get you there, but it ain't a pleasant trip.

The duo began dancing in joy.

Wukong & Macaque: Yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes!

Chi Jiao: Alright, let's get moving. But I'm telling you, old friend. If things get hairy, I've changed. I don't go around picking fights no more.

While Tong Bei only sulked, Chi Jiao began preparing.

Chi Jiao: Sha Shou, initiate the launch sequence!

The monkey leapt off his master’s shoulder. Soon, the boat was running, carrying the crew off into the distance.

Macaque: Holy crap, YES!

---

Through binoculars aimed at the boat, General Celestialclad came into view. He lowered the lenses and knelt before Erlang Shen, who stood on the edge of a building. The half-celestial was furious.

Erlang: “What?! You let them get away?!”

Suddenly, Yang Shu appeared behind his son from the sky and pulled him close.

Yang Shu: Aww, so your plan didn't go according to plan, huh? Oh, don't worry, my sweet, useless boy.

Grinning, he pinched his son’s cheeks. Ah yes, fatherly love at its finest.

Yang Shu: Daddy will get the blade. I'm not about to let anyone stop us. Not this time.

Erlang looked at his father, bewildered and worried. You don’t deserve this kid, let me just kidnap you away…

Erlang: But father! You’re mortal. How exactly do you plan to stop them?

Yang Shu smiled as a golden orb appeared in his hand.

Yang Shu: Thanks to my queen—(Wait, weren’t you supposed to be Buddhist, bro? 🤨 Or am I mistaken?)—she trusted me with this mission and granted me some of her power temporarily.

As Erlang stared in awe at the glowing energy, Yang Shu lifted into the air.

Yang Shu: You stay here. I’ll be back with the milk in no time.

Then he vanished into the sky.

---

On Chi Jiao’s boat, Macaque was training with the sword.

Macaque: Stop right there, you son of a—! I must stop you! Because I—ahhh!

Green energy shot out from the sword, nearly blowing apart the vessel and almost hitting Wukong. His fur stood on end.

Before Macaque could apologize, Wukong stood with a grin, thrilled despite the near-death experience.

Wukong: Woooo! That was awesome!

Macaque: Sorry, Wukong.

Just then, a dragon zipped past them, and Macaque turned toward the glowing light in the distance. It was the Jade Temple.

Macaque: We’re here! Jade Temple! Ahhh!

A geyser struck Chi Jiao’s boat, knocking a chest into the ocean.

Macaque: What the hell is happening?!

When they saw flames, Chi Jiao explained.

Chi Jiao: Welcome to the Ring of Fire, gang! This volcanic sea surrounds the temple, making it nearly impenetrable. This path is the only safe way through. That's as close as the boat can get. Just... be careful.

So Macaque, Wukong, and Tong Bei boarded a small vessel, capable of withstanding 9,000,000 degrees, to cross the fire ring and find the Dragon Soldier.

Tong Bei: Stupid Chi. Stupid Xiangliu. Staying cozy in his stupid boat. What did I do to deserve this, Pastry Gods?

Another geyser cut off Tong Bei’s complaints.

Wukong: Careful, Tong! Not the time to be jealous! Eeeee! You gotta wonder why Dragon Soldier decided to live here of all places.

As Wukong and Tong Bei gasped in fear and pointed behind him, Macaque continued explaining.

Macaque: When the Dragon Soldier escaped Jade Temple, he had to cross the Flaming Ring using Yaoji’s weapon—

Yang Shu appeared, laughing.

Yang Shu: Well, well, well. Aren't you a little Dragon Soldier fanboy?

He drove his magical scythe into the geysers, hurling fire at them. The group narrowly dodged.

Tong Bei: Kids! Everyone okay?!

The two confirmed, but Yang Shu only laughed.

Yang Shu: I'll be taking that blade now.

Macaque: This belongs to the Dragon Soldier. And as long as I live, it will never be tainted by unworthy hands!

Yang Shu: Ah, you’re just a child playing soldier. Sorry to disappoint. Playtime is over.

Macaque charged at him with the sword.

Tong Bei: Liu’er, no!

Yang Shu used the Power Glove to seize the blade.

Macaque: What?!

Then Yang Shu hurled the boy far, far away.

His scream tore through the skies as Wukong cried, tears in his eyes, trying to reach him.

Wukong: No! Mihou! Ah!

Tong Bei: We gotta go!

He dragged Wukong back toward Chi Jiao’s boat, but not before glancing sorrowfully at the place Macaque had vanished.

Tong Bei: Sorry, Liu’er.

As they left, Yang Shu laughed with pride.

Yang Shu: “At last the full power of my beloved will be unleashed.

Then he ascended and vanished.

---

Back on Chi Jiao’s boat, Tong Bei leaned against the side, while Chi Jiao tried to calm him.

Tong Bei: He can’t be gone. He can’t…

Chi Jiao: I’m sorry, Bei…

The snake demon cut in, just as sorrowful as the rest.

Xiangliu: There was nothing we could do…

But Tong Bei snapped, wiping his tears as he grabbed his friend by the collar.

Tong Bei: Nothing? Nothing?! I could have done something. I could have...I should have protected Liu'er. It's over.

Xiangliu: It's not over. We can't help Liu'er. But we can make sure no more lives are lost. Make sure his sacrifice wasn't in vain.

Then Wukong spoke up, drawing everyone’s attention.

Wukong: Someone has to fight.

The two monkeys turned to the stone monkey.

Tong Bei: Wukong?

Wukong wiped away his tears.

Wukong: That celestial b*tch…

With a golden flash, a kaiju appeared, and Wukong grinned.

Wukong: She’ll pay the price.

Chi Jiao pulled the others into a group hug.

Chi Jiao: Then what are we waiting for? Let's go stop some bad guys!

Tong Bei and Wukong bumped fists. Then they set off toward the Megapolis.

---

Meanwhile, Yang Shu returned to his family, holding the sword with the Power Glove.

He showed it to Yaoji, who smiled as the weapon floated into the hole in her armor.

The blade was absorbed, her power skyrocketed, and the Celestial Fairy City descended into hellfire.

Chapter Text

When Macaque woke up, he saw small dragons surrounding him. As the dragon hatchlings began to attack him, Macaque tried to fight them off.

Macaque: Ah! No! Wait! Don’t! Ahhh!

In the end, Macaque threw them off and the little dragons scattered away.

As he looked around, he held his head in pain as memories flooded back, then he stared at the huge temple before him.

Macaque: Whoa... Jade Temple...

He walked across the long garden toward the gate to get inside. The tiny dragons were watching him. Even the dragon statues seemed to be watching. When he placed his hand on the door, a green seal appeared, unlocking it. He stepped inside and began to look around.

Macaque: Hey? Hello? Hello?

When he looked up, he saw a mural of the Dragon Soldier and her Journey to the East companions. Then Macaque spotted the image of his idol.

Macaque: Hey! That’s the Dragon Soldier!

As he stared, his eyes turned green. Macaque suddenly saw everything as glowing neon-green flame-like spirit lines, leaving him confused.

Macaque: What? Uhh! What's happening? What's uhhh! What's wrong with my eyes!?

The mural came alive, and his fear turned into excitement. He witnessed the Dragon Soldier hatching from his egg, then the memory of winning his sword in a battle against his uncle.

Macaque: Whoa! That’s the moment the Dragon Soldier was born. And when she was given the blade! Wow! Ahh! Huh?

Looking ahead, he saw Mei through the green flames. She backed away as he moved closer.

Macaque: Dragon Soldier? Hey! Wait up! Dragon Soldier!

Just as he was about to reach and touch her—

Macaque: It's really...

The Dragon Soldier turned into dust, and the green glow faded.

Macaque: Dragon Soldier...?

Frustrated, he kicked a rock and sat down with a sigh.

Macaque: Ugh! What was I thinking? For a moment there I thought. Hhhh! Xiangliu was right. I really am delusional.

Then he noticed a tiny dragon had landed in his lap. As he looked at it in confusion, the dragon suddenly spoke.

Dragon: At last, we meet!

Macaque screamed in terror and threw the dragon away. But the dragon still tried to introduce itself.

Dragon: Yes, I know, I haven’t introduced myself yet. I’m the Dragon Sol—

But Macaque pointed a stick he’d found on the ground at it.

This only made the dragon stare at him strangely.

Dragon: Rude.

Then the dragon shifted — first into its egg, then through several forms — before finally revealing its original form: the Dragon Soldier.

Mei looked exactly like the legends described, except her hair was now longer and spikier, tied into a ponytail resembling a dragon’s mane. Her horns, tail, and cheek-scales shimmered. She wore a hanfu in sea-green with white stripes and golden designs.

Macaque: D-D-Dragon Soldier?!

Mei grinned proudly and spread her arms.

Mei: That’s right, the one and only. Now, where’s my blade?

Seeing the boy on the verge of tears, Mei’s face softened with concern. Macaque knelt before her.

Macaque: I'm so sorry! I tried to bring it to you but Yang Shu came and took it. He's got this glove.

But Mei smiled to calm him down, crouching at his level. Yet she kept her hand slightly away, as if she wanted to touch him but couldn’t.

Mei: Hey, don’t worry, I know, I know. Look, I'm gonna come clean. Um... I've been kinda watching you.

Macaque: Excuse me, what?

Macaque remembered all the strange things involving the dragon and realized it had been Mei all along... This wasn’t exactly ethical...

Macaque: Wait, crap. That was you?!

Mei laughed childishly and pinched his cheeks.

Mei: The look on your face. You're perfect!

Macaque tilted his head in confusion.

Macaque: Perfect for what?

Mei crossed her arms seriously.

Mei: To be... my successor!

Macaque gave her a strange look, then started checking if she was okay. He even climbed onto her back, tugged her hair, and pinched her cheeks.

Macaque: Huh? Are you sure you’re the Dragon Soldier? No disrespect, but you've been cooped up in here way too long. I think your brain went mushed up.

Mei set him down gently and spoke.

Mei: Listen, Mihou. You fought demons and you didn't die. And you made it here. Not just anyone can lift my blade.

Still, Macaque was doubtful.

Macaque: But what about Yaoji? And I didn’t even fight... And isn’t Yang Shu half-immortal?

Mei smirked confidently and ruffled his dark hair.

Mei: Pfft! So what about Yaoji? And if Yang Shu’s half-immortal, not a big deal! You can handle it. She’s just a fairy! Harmless, she won’t push you too far.  And besides, I’ll be watching you from afar, so you’ll be safe!

Macaque: But I...

When Mei noticed the boy’s lack of confidence, her face softened again. She placed her hands gently on his shoulders to reassure him.

Mei: Look, if you can lift the blade, you can use it. And I’ve watched you many times — you’re a strong kid. Just believe in yourself. Even a smidge makes all the difference. The blade was taken from you. Take it back.

Finally, Macaque smiled with determination.

Macaque: Alright!

After saying farewell to Mei, Macaque returned to the exit. But he didn’t know how to get back.

Macaque: How am I supposed to get back?

When he turned around, he saw dragons carrying the chest that had fallen from Chi Jiao’s boat. The dragons opened it to reveal a jet.

Macaque: Huuu! Yes!

He climbed inside and studied the controls.

Macaque: Hmm? Can’t be too hard to fly. Says ages 8 and up!

He pressed a button and flew back toward Megapolis.

Macaque: Wuhuuuu! Hahahah!

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

Yaoji was ravaging the city. During her takeover, she came face-to-face with the Tuk Tuk Celestial Bots.

Everyone screamed in panic as one Celestial Bot locked onto a vehicle and laughed.

Xiangliu: Oh, no. Their secret weapon: barrels!

The food truck was destroyed, and they all leapt out of the truck, forcing the Celestial Bot to flee. As the team struck a cool pose, Erlang appeared in a burst of golden energy.

Erlang: So you wanna be warriors, huh? Let me show you what happens to warriors!

Golden energy pulsed stronger around Erlang, almost dancing around him as he grinned.

Tong Bei rubbed his arms angrily.

Tong Bei: I've had it up to here what these celestial punk-

Just as Tong Bei and Xiangliu were about to attack, a giant golden monkey hand stopped them.

Wukong: I'll handle this one.

Wukong’s eyes glowed golden as he summoned his massive kaiju form—but the moment was interrupted when Macaque arrived in the vehicle.

Macaque: Ahhh!

Wukong: Mihou?!

Macaque accidentally rammed Erlang with the vehicle, knocking him out cold.

Tong Bei: Mihou!

Chi Jiao sighed in relief, while Wukong grabbed his beloved tightly and began to cry.

Wukong: Mihou! Oh my heavens! We saw you blast into the fire. I thought you were all like "Phew, ahhh" but you're not.

Xiangliu poked Erlang’s body with a stick while Macaque giggled. Wukong smiled too, then suddenly pulled back as if remembering something.

Wukong: Where'd you get a jet? Way to trash it already. Wait! Dragon Soldier, did you find her?

Macaque’s eyes sparkled as he looked at his friend.

Macaque: Yeah, I did!

Tong Bei stepped closer.

Tong Bei: So, where is she?

Macaque: She said it up to me, to us.

Wukong: That's anticlimactic.

Wukong said it as though he truly hadn’t been expecting it. Then, all of them turned back toward Yaoji, who was tearing the city apart with her armor.

Xiangliu: So how are we… uh… uh… supposed to fight that thing?

His snakes hissed nervously.

Macaque: We believe in ourselves. You clean the streets. I'll stop the Yaoji. Somehow.

Macaque eyed the fairy nervously as Wukong kicked the jet.

Wukong: Yeah, this jet probably would have been really useful, hey?

After a few kicks, a motorcycle popped out. Macaque’s eyes lit up as he hopped on, then kissed Wukong’s cheek.

Macaque: That'll work!

As he rode off, Wukong cheered behind him.

Wukong: Gooo get ‘em, my moonlight!

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

The city was still in chaos as Yaoji rampaged with her forces and armor. She noticed Macaque and smiled wickedly.

Yaoji: The little thief returns.

She fired at him, but Macaque dodged. Once again, his vision shifted green, guiding him toward the gap in her armor.

Macaque: Uh what? Why is everything looking epic again?

He spotted the sword and lit up with joy.

Macaque: The blade!

Fueled by his mission, Macaque dove straight into the gap in Yaoji’s armor.

Macaque: Ahh!

From afar, Mei watched anxiously, while Chi Jiao rushed to shield the others with a barrier.

Yaoji laughed, convinced she had crushed the little warrior.

Yaoji: Now this world is truly mine!

But suddenly, her power faltered.

Yaoji: What… is this?

From the gap in her armor, a dragon egg shot out. The egg cracked open slowly, revealing Liu’er Mihou holding the sword.

The celestial fairy saw him and thought of only one figure…

Yaoji: Dragon Soldier..?

An emerald crown formed around Macaque’s neck as he punched Yaoji squarely.

She tried blasting him again, but he effortlessly dodged with the sword.

Macaque: Missed me! Nope! Over here!

He blasted her down with energy from the blade, then sliced a building in half—catching the top half and readying it.

Macaque: Okay, here we go!

Yaoji: No!

He tried to crush her beneath it, but the Queen had had enough.

Yaoji: Not again! Enough!

She smashed through the building and hurled Macaque into another one, injuring him.

Yaoji: You thought you could stand against me? I am the Yaoji. I will not let a little thief take victory from my grasp!

Bruised, Macaque lifted his head and spotted the Dragon Avatar arcade machine. Mei’s words echoed in his mind:

"Just believe in yourself. Even a smidge makes all the difference."

He staggered to his feet as Yaoji cackled.

Yaoji: You might have that fool's blade, but you are not the Dragon Soldier.

Macaque: You’re right…

He lifted his head, smiling with determination.

Macaque: I’m the Soldier of the Dragon!

He slammed the sword into the ground, summoning a fierce purple dragon avatar.

Macaque: It's time for you and your family to be brought to justice. Here comes the Soldier of the Dragon!

With the blade’s power, he struck Yaoji down. A small burst of light rippled across the world as Yaoji shrank, trembling as she stared at the avatar.

Yaoji: Impossible…

Macaque: Nothing is impossible if you just believe in yourself. Make no mistake, you were just defeated by the Soldier of the Dragon!

Macaque posed dramatically with the avatar as Erlang crawled out of the rubble, battered.

Erlang: You think this is over? Not by a long shot, pal! Get out of that dumb avatar and fight me like a man, you coward!

The celestial rolled toward his mother. Macaque tried to grab thrm, but a huge whirlwind stopped him.

Yang Shu: We know when we've been bested. But this won't be the last you see of us.

Laughing, he vanished with his family.

Macaque: What? No! No fair! Come on, you can't just run away when I'm right about to win.

He pouted as Wukong appeared below.

Wukong: Mihou! You absolutely beat Yaoji. Without you, the city would be toast!

Macaque dispelled the avatar, laughing sheepishly.

Macaque: Yeah. But you know, I couldn't have done it on my own.

Chi Jiao hugged the two boys tightly.

Chi Jiao: You did, little man.

Wukong: You’re basically the new Dragon Soldier now!

As the team struck poses like the Dragon Soldier and his friends of old, Xiangliu cut in.

Xiangliu: Haha! Soldier of the Dragon, didn’t you say?

Tong Bei ruffled the monkey’s hair.

Tong Bei: You did good, Liu'er. You did real good... though, you should probably come up with a shorter name.

Chi Jiao: But, er... what now?

Wukong: Isn’t it obvious?

Macaque: Yeah! Bust up more bad guys!

Xiangliu: Or we could go eat some dumplings?

At this suggestion, the two friends cheered excitedly.

Wukong & Macaque: Yeah! Dumplings, dumplings, dumplings!

From atop a building, Mei watched the gang with a proud smile, then bowed and flew away.

Chapter Text

News Reporter: And in breaking news, it's been confirmed that last week's devastation was caused by the legendary Yaoji. Questions still remains about the small overpowered young man who saved us all. Authorities warn citizens on...

The crew was on Chi Jiao’s boat. Xiangliu was eating a plate of dumplings while watching TV, and Macaque was telling his lover about his adventure.

Macaque: And I was like, "Stop there, Yaoji." And Yaoji's all like, "You can't stop me! I'm cwazy!" And then I grabbed my blade, and whoosh! I created this giant avatar!

When Macaque slammed his blade into the ground, it punctured a small hole in the boat, causing it to take on a little water.

Wukong: Uh oh, looks like you sprung a leak, Mihou.

Macaque started to panic.

Macaque: Oh jeez!

Just then, Tong Bei arrived at the dock. He looked exhausted and irritated.

Tong Bei: I've just pulled a quadruple shift at the shop. And I show up to see you've all been slacking off all day!

Xiangliu looked at his friend indifferently while eating his dumpling.

Xiangliu: Oh Bei, relax. A little time off never hurt anyone. Besides, if you’re the biggest sucker of us all, what are we supposed to do?

Macaque nodded innocently at the serpent demon.

Macaque: Yeah! A time off never hurt nobody.

Suddenly, Chi Jiao shouted in panic.

Chi Jiao: Look out!

A container fell right on top of Macaque, making the crew panic.

Tong Bei: Liu’er!

Macaque: I’m…

Macaque managed to burst out by blowing it up with green smoke.

Macaque: İnvincible!

Wukong: Yeah!

Wukong cheered with delight while Tong Bei sighed heavily.

Tong Bei: Look, Liu'er, just 'cause you got the Dragon Soldier's powers and all, It don't mean-

The trio froze when they saw what Wukong had pulled out. Stay calm, Wukong. You’re not married yet.

Wukong: Hey, sweetheart! How about... this?

He fired the bazooka missile he had created toward Macaque—but it didn’t harm him.

Macaque: I’m invincible!

Tong Bei sighed again in exasperation.

Tong Bei: Look, Liu'er, you're a super-soldier now. You're going to need-

Wukong cut him off excitedly.

Wukong: A cape! Maybe a logo, or a headquarters! Some vehicles, you know, all the stuff to help you beat bad guys!

Tong Bei: No, what I was getting at-

Wukong: To the Sea-Crate.. Base!

He opened the elevator and the team followed him inside in amazement. Tong Bei sighed once more.

Wukong: Welcome to our new team base!

Everyone looked around in awe. The base was mostly white and green, decorated with beautiful dragon images everywhere. Each person’s section had unique colors and styles to match them.

Macaque: Wukong, when did you make this?

Tong Bei: How did you make this?

Xiangliu whispered to Chi Jiao.

Xiangliu: Say, Jiao, weren't you building a secret base for Liu'er, too?

Chi Jiao averted his gaze, remembering the pillow fort headquarters he once made.

Chi Jiao: Uh… no...

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

At the Golden Foundry, Yaoji was venting her anger by destroying parts of the foundry.

Yaoji: An eon trapped under a mountain and now this? I had the blade in my grasp. I should have crushed the thief when I had the chance!

Her husband and son tried to calm the furious fairy.

Yang Shu: Oh, my love. Don't be so dramatic. We've nothing but time. You will bring the world to its knees.

Suddenly Erlang cut in proudly.

Erlang: And sooner than you think, Mother. Allow me to secure the power you desire.

Yaoji: Get it done then.

Erlang: I will not disappoint you again.

Then Erlang left.

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

Intercom: Welcome to the Weather Station, where you'll notice it's another beautiful day. Here at the Weather Station, we control the city's weather to bring you a perfect day every day.

Erlang walked up to the man at the control panel and cleared his throat. The place was full of people enjoying different weather conditions.

Worker: Uh yeah, I'd like to help you and your friends, but I'm pretty busy.

Erlang grinned as golden energy formed in his hand.

Erlang: This won’t take long.

Heavenly Bots began attacking the Weather Station as Erlang Shern started broadcasting his message to the city.

Erlang: Citizens. Citizens. It is I, Erlang Shen. I have taken control of the Weather Station and will harness the very power of nature to return my mother to her former glory. This message is more of a courtesy really.

He pulled a lever, creating a storm that flooded the Great Wall of China. And those waters… might just be Turkish waters. AWWOOOOOOOOOOO 🐺🐺🇹🇷🇹🇷🇹🇷🇹🇷🇹🇷

Erlang: When I'm finished, my mother will once more dominate the world! And then- Oh look! A lightning button.

When the broadcast ended, Wukong and Macaque were excited, while Xiangliu was still eating dumplings.

Wukong & Macaque: Oh yeah!

Tong Bei, however, looked at the two in panic and anger, shoving Xiangliu’s head into the dumplings.

Tong Bei: What do you mean 'Oh yeah'? This ain't an 'oh yeah' moment!

As Wukong threw something dangerous toward his lover, Liu’er came out unharmed and spoke. MASHALLAH, that’s how much he loves him(!)

Macaque: Chill out, Tong Bei. I'm invincible, remember? If he wants to tussle with the champ, then I say bring it!

Wukong: Yeah! 'Cause he's a super soldier, yo! The Celestial Baby is gonna get Mihou Knockout yo!

Tong Bei sighed and sat on the chair.

Tong Bei: Uh, you got a lot to learn, Liu'er. Don't just dive head first in the danger-

But he realized Macaque had already mounted his motorcycle.

Tong Bei: Wait, what did I just say?

Macaque laughed as he rode off with his sword.

Macaque: Totally invincible!

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

Erlang was sitting with his feet up on the desk, sipping his milkshake when the team arrived at the Weather Station.

Macaque: Not so fast, Erlang!

Erlang turned his chair around to see Liu’er and the team.

Erlang: Little dragon! I thought I smelt some garbage! Turns out I was right!

As Erlang laughed, Macaque grew irritated.

Macaque: You're laughing now, but…I'm invincible! So yeah, you're basically toast. Prepare to get Macaque Knockout!

Suddenly green energy started forming from the sword as he tried to strike Erlang, but he couldn’t control the beams.

Wukong: Yeah, Mihou! You show him who's boss-

But then a green laser hit Wukong in the stomach, knocking him to the ground. Tong Bei screamed in terror and turned to Liu’er.

Tong Bei: Jeez, watch what'cha doing!

Macaque: Sorry Wukong!

Macaque nearly struck Xiangliu and Tong Bei with his sword, but they narrowly escaped. Instead, the green light struck Chi Jiao.

Chi Jiao: Oh, my chakra!

Chi Jiao collapsed unconscious.

Xiangliu: Oh no! You've killed him!

Wukong: Eh, he’s a strong monkey. He’ll be fine.

As Wukong collapsed on top of him, Erlang looked at Macaque with boredom.

Erlang: You dorks done beating each other up yet?

Macaque: SHUT UP!

Just as he pointed his sword at him, the green energy backfired, launching him out of the Weather Station.

The others were left behind, surrounded by Heavenly Bots.

Erlang: Looks like the trash is taking itself out!

Erlang laughed victoriously as he tied them up.

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

Macaque had crashed into a crater when he heard a familiar voice. He turned around.

Mei: Mihou!

When Macaque realized his mentor had come to check on him, he forgot his pain and looked at her with glowing eyes.

Macaque: Dragon Soldier! Great! Now that you're here, we can go fly up there and smash that-

He punched his palm, but Mei wagged her finger.

Mei: Oh no, no, no, no, no. You just took a hit, you need to rest. I can handle this myself. Besides, someone clearly needs some discipline…

Her eye glowed threateningly green as she rolled up her sleeves. Macaque looked down sadly.

Macaque: I guess that’s for the best… I just mess everything up anyway…

Mei’s face softened with concern, then she climbed on his shoulder and started looking for his problem.

Macaque: Hey, what are you doing?

Mei: Oh yeah, you're right. Oh, this is bad. Something's really wrong.

Macaque started panicking and running around. It was funny to watch.

Macaque: What is it?! What’s wrong?!

Mei: It's you, idiot.

She patted his hair while keeping her smile.

Macaque: Hey… that’s not a nice thing to say…

Mei stepped back, looking at him seriously.

Mei: In order to have full control of your powers, you need self-confidence.

Macaque struck a pose confidently beside his mentor.

Macaque: I got self-confidence! Wukong said so last night!

But Mei gave him a side-eye (🏳️‍🌈?) and sighed, keeping her calm and serious face.

Mei: No, you’re just pretending. And by the way, we’re going to talk about that Wukong later. The only way to get self-confidence is-

Macaque: Fake it 'til I make it? I can do that.

Mei couldn’t take it anymore and snapped.

Mei: No! Practice! You think I took shortcuts? No. It took me centuries of training and fighting and just beating up demons. Just, so many demons. A-anyway, nothing worth anything comes for free.

She turned and coughed.

Macaque: But what about my friends, the city? They all count on me.

He gave her those puppy eyes. Mei tried to resist at first, but then sighed softly and gave in.

Mei: Alright, alright. But only because you’re so cute. I know a way to limit your powers so you can learn to control them. But...

Macaque tilted his head in confusion.

Macaque: But what?

Mei: You won’t be invincible anymore.

Macaque didn’t even hesitate. Fool.

Macaque: Alright let's do it

Mei nodded and smiled.

Mei: All right. No turning back

The surroundings turned green as the Dragon Soldier clasped her hands and placed them in front of Macaque. She pushed him back, sealed his powers, and limited them. Macaque fell to his knees.

Mei: Feeling alright, Mihou?

Macaque grinned at his mentor.

Macaque: Yeah!

Mei: Please never grin like that again.

Once convinced the boy was okay, Mei nodded and carried him back to the Station.

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

The team was tied up as Erlang giggled to himself.

Erlang: Fools. Idiots! Morons! Stuuuuuuuuuuuuuupid—

Wukong was already trying to chew through the ropes when he heard a familiar voice.

Macaque: Oh, Erlang!

Macaque was dropped gently to the ground by a dragon.

Macaque: Let's settle this for real. I won't let you get away with this.

Erlang laughed.

Erlang: You're back to beat yourself up some more?

Macaque: Hey. I'll have you know I can control my powers now. Only downside is I'm not invincible anymore, so I could die.

Everyone stared at him in shock.

Tong Bei: WHAT?!

Macaque: Forgot I said that I got this. Here comes the Soldier of the Dragon!

He attacked with his sword, but Erlang sent in a group of Heavenly Bots. Macaque screamed in fear and tried to dodge.

Macaque: I totally don't got this!

As the Bots rained down on him, he dodged desperately. Erlang then attacked, and they fought for a while. Macaque threw Erlang Shen across the room. But Erlang rose again with amazing animated power and attacked fiercely.

The fight was tough, while Tong Bei watched from behind, throwing side-eyes at Wukong, who was mesmerized by the scene.

At that moment Erlang hurled Macaque into the control section.

After crashing, Macaque lifted his head and saw a group of Heavenly Bots charging at him.

Macaque: How am I supposed to fight all of them?!

Then his eyes glowed green again.

Macaque: Oh! That weird Dragon Vision thingy.

He looked up and saw a light, and an idea struck him.

Macaque: That’s it! Ah!

He let himself get buried under the pile of bots. Erlang climbed on top of the pile.

Erlang: Not so tough without all your Dragon Soldier powers, are you?

But then he felt the pile shift. Suddenly, a burst of green energy erupted from the sword, scattering all the Heavenly Bots and launching Erlang into the sky.

Macaque: Oh, look! A lightning button.

He pressed a button on the control panel. Lightning struck Erlang as he was about to land, electrocuting him. When the attack ended, Macaque peeked out from behind the console and saw Erlang stumbling on the ground, barely able to stand.

Erlang: You may have won this round but... you're still nothing!

And then he left.

Macaque ignored his words and turned back to the panel.

Macaque: Let's get this place back to normal.

He pressed the buttons, resetting everything, and the weather turned sunny again.

Macaque: And that should do it.

Wukong: Mihou!

Wukong threw himself onto his lover, and Macaque collapsed unconscious. Chi Jiao also came to them.

Wukong: Aw, you really did limit your power.

Macaque: Yeah. Just till I learn to control them better.

Tong Bei: And... how are you gonna do that?

Macaque drew his sword and did a few moves.

Macaque: Practice, practice, practice.

Then he accidentally hit himself on the head with the sword, making the team laugh.

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

At the Golden Foundry, Yaoji furiously threw her weapon around. Several Heavenly Bots were even blown up by the explosions she caused.

Yaoji: The little thief has stolen from me again! I will not be undone by an insect!

As she continued her tantrum, she suddenly realized something.

In her rage, she had accidentally opened a cage.

The tomb glowed white and ethereal, and from inside came a gentle, motherly female voice.

Voice: You must do what I say.

Yaoji looked at the prison and smiled.

Yaoji: Now, that is power...

Voice: Power…

Chapter Text

Tong Bei pressed a bell while holding a bag of dumplings.

Tong Bei: Order up! Come on, get the let out.

Mac smiled and took the bag of dumplings.

Macaque: On it!

Macaque then put on his headphones and rode around on his bike. He stopped by each of the customers’ homes.

Macaque: Tong Bei’s Dumplings! Tong Bei’s Dumplings! Tong Bei’s Dumplings! Tong Bei’s Dumplings!

On his way back, just outside the harbor, he ran into Chi Jiao, surrounded by papers.

Chi Jiao: Macaque! Well boy, did you arrive at the right time.

He showed him a script.

Chi Jiao: Take the script! We’ll rehearse for the performance at the folk theater!

Macaque immediately grabbed it.

Macaque: Yes! Acting is my third name!

Chi Jiao and Macaque worked on the script until night fell. When it got dark, they fist-bumped, and Macaque left.

---

The day ended, and Macaque was getting ready for bed. He had already taken his bath.

Macaque: Now for eight to twelve hours of uninterrupted— Wukong?!

Macaque looked in shock at his lover, who was pulling clothes out of his drawer.

Wukong: Get up, get up, get up! We are going out!

The two spent the night at the arcade. On the roof of the arcade was a hologram of a monkey.

Wukong: Anti-Gravity Arcade, yo!

Macaque: Yeah, yeah, yeah!

---

Tong Bei rang the bell again.

Tong Bei: Order up!

Macaque: Okay, Tong Bei.

The boy yawned as he grabbed the order.

Macaque: Tong Bei’s Dumplings. Tong Bei’s Dumplings.

Then he returned to performing with Chi Jiao.

Chi Jiao: What if you added a little more emphasis?

Liu’er followed his monkey friend’s advice.

That night, while Wukong cheered, Macaque snored asleep at the arcade.

This cycle continued—Macaque joined every single task his friends needed help with, 24/7.

Tong Bei: Order up! Order up! Order up!

Chi Jiao: Put in more emotion!

Macaque: Tong Bei’s Dumplings. Tong Bei’s Dumplings.

Wukong: Mihou!

Chi Jiao: Macaque!

Tong Bei: Liu’er!

---

One day, Macaque collapsed from exhaustion on the counter. Xiangliu remained calm. The front snake slowly poked at Macaque.

Xiangliu: Wow, Liu'er. You look like hot garbage. Tired?

Macaque: What, me? No, I just need to close my eyes for a couple of seconds...

Suddenly, from exhaustion, he slumped right into a plate of dumplings. Xiangliu’s snake grabbed him by the hair to lift his head up slightly.

Xiangliu: You're pushing yourself too hard, Liu'er. Working all day, partying all night, making theater? It's not good for a growing mortal. You need to have time to relax.

Macaque: I just— I don't want to let my friends down, you know. It's like I want to help out in store, making theatre with Chi Jiao, and party with

He imitated being in party mode.

Macaque: Wukong. But it's too hard. I'm just one guy.

As he buried his face back into the dumpling plate, Xiangliu muttered idly.

Xiangliu: Too bad you can't make duplicates of yourself, like Dragon Soldier.

Macaque looked at the snake demon, confused.

Macaque: Huh?

Xiangliu grabbed his book and showed him a section.

Xiangliu: You know one of Dragon Soldier’s Samadhi Clones. Take a spice, sniff it, and blow.

Macaque thought for a moment, then nodded.

Macaque: Okay.

He sniffed some chili powder, blew, sneezed—but nothing happened.

Xiangliu: And some dragons pop out.

The powders formed into the shape of an egg, then out came a clone of Macaque—colored in the shades of the spice.

Xiangliu: Yep, a perfect clone of you pops out. Exactly what I said would happen.

As Xiangliu went back to eating, Macaque and the clone stared at each other in awe.

Macaque & Clone: Whoa! Holy moly! I look exactly like me!

Macaque: Oh ho! This solves everything! Now I can be in all the places at all the times!

Before leaving, Macaque and his clone turned back to the demon eating his meal.

Macaque & Clone: Thanks, Xiangliu! Couldn't have done it without you!

As they left, the demon looked worried for a moment, then shrugged.

Xiangliu: Hmm. If I wasn't so relaxed and cool, I'd probably be really worried about the consequences of this.

---

The next day, Macaque began sending clones to do his tasks.

Tong Bei rang the bell again.

Tong Bei: Order up!

Basil Macaque: On it, boss!

The chili pepper clone was partying with Wukong.

Chili Macaque: Yeah, yeah, yeah!

Xiangliu walked up to Macaque, who was playing at the arcade with books in hand.

Xiangliu: Please, help?

As new tasks appeared, Macaque kept creating more clones. But old tasks started piling up too.

Chi Jiao: Macaque!

Wukong: Mihou!

Tong Bei: Liu’er!

Macaque kept relying on his clones.

Tong Bei: I don't know what's gotten into you, Liu'er, but I like the hustle!

The mint clone kept rehearsing with Chi Jiao, while the chili clone was in the party room with Wukong, wearing dragon-scale clothes and purple-green glasses.

Wukong: Yeah!

Chili Macaque: Party people, make some noise!

---

One morning, Tong Bei was happily making dumplings in the kitchen.

Tong Bei: Order up!

Suddenly, the shop’s phone rang. He picked it up with his tail while still cooking.

Tong Bei: Hello, thanks for calling Tong Bei's! Home of the world's delicious—

When the customer complained the dumplings hadn’t arrived, the monkey was confused.

Xiangliu, overhearing this, grabbed his plate and hid under the table.

Tong Bei: It didn't arrive? Hold on, I've got another call. He didn't deliver it? What do you mean he didn't deliver it?!

Suddenly, Liu’er appeared behind him.

Basil Clone Macaque: Any more orders?

Tong Bei: Liu’er, you mind explaining—

When he turned and saw the fattened clone burning with purple flames, he screamed in horror.

Basil Clone Macaque: Uh, everything okay, boss?

The clone burped, while Tong Bei remained horrified.

---

At the harbor, the mint clone rehearsed obsessively. The area now glowed green.

Mint Clone Macaque: It needs to be better. It needs to be better!

He performed a tragic death scene. Chi Jiao was already crying along with Sha Shou.

Chi Jiao: I think it's pretty good, Macaque.

But the clone wasn’t satisfied. Green flames spread further.

Mint Clone Macaque: Good? Good?! That’s not enough! I’m performing this in a week. I won’t stop until it’s perfect!

---

At the arcade, everyone—including Wukong—was exhausted.

And the chili clone blazed brighter, his fire glowing red.

Chili Macaque: Yeah, yo! Everybody move your feet!

Finally, Wukong managed to reach his lover.

Wukong: Hey! Um, I'm getting pretty sleepy and I’m sure you’re tired too. Want to hit it?

He yawned, but the chili clone sneered.

Chili Macaque: What are you talking about, Wukong? Ain't no one leaving this party!

He cranked up the music. Wukong frowned.

Wukong: Yeah, but this party's been going on for 15 hours!

The clone mocked him.

Chili Macaque: "It's been 15 hours, I'm so sleepy!" That's what you sound like.

Then he summoned guards.

Chili Macaque: I said, "Ain't. No one. Leaving. This party."

---

Tong Bei struggled to pull a plate away from the enormous, purple-flamed, gluttonous Macaque clone. Xiangliu just ate his dumplings, watching.

Tong Bei: Liu’er, stop eating! I'm hemorrhaging money by the bowl! Stop! Dumplings!

Another Macaque entered, headphones on, surprising the two.

Tong Bei: Liu’er?

He glanced between them, then shot a deadly glare at the original.

Tong Bei: Let me guess: This is some sort of Mystic Dragon business.

Macaque: Uh yeah, that about sums it up.

Macaque laughed nervously as Tong Bei climbed off the fat clone.

Tong Bei: Liu’er…

But when the giant clone toppled toward him, Tong Bei screamed, crushed beneath it.

Xiangliu turned to the boy with dumplings in hand.

Xiangliu: So you gonna clean this mess up?

Macaque poked the clone with his sword, but it didn’t work. As the purple flames grew, he cried in despair.

Wukong: That was never gonna work! Xiangliu, how'd Dragon Soldier ever get rid of her clones?

Xiangliu: Hmm…

The snake demon pretended to think, but honestly had no clue.

Xiangliu: I don’t know.

Macaque groaned in frustration. Then Xiangliu had an idea.

Xiangliu: Try some pressure points or water.

Macaque: Alright, a storm’s coming.

He sprayed the clone with a hose, but it didn’t work.

Macaque: Yeah…

Suddenly, the clone exploded in purple fire, leaving behind ashes and tiny flames.

Xiangliu: Well, looks like everything’s back to normal.

Macaque saw his fainted boss and cried out in worry.

Macaque: Tong Bei!

At that moment, Tong Bei’s phone rang—Chi Jiao calling. Macaque remembered the Mint Clone he had left behind.

Macaque: Uh, I gotta go!

He grabbed his sword and ran off.

---

At the harbor, the clone laughed maniacally, covered in scripts from head to toe—though green flames still burned the pages. Chi Jiao was tied up.

Mint Clone Macaque: Yes, yes, the art is seeping into my pores! Filling my very soul.

Chi Jiao coughed, and the clone turned to him.

Mint Clone Macaque: Just needs… a little more realism…

He was about to slice the monkey when a voice stopped him.

Macaque: This is a musical, but it doesn’t look like one!

The clone panicked.

Mint Clone Macaque: WHAT?! HOW?!

Macaque sprayed him with water, and the clone exploded in green flames.

Chi Jiao cheerfully turned to him.

Chi Jiao: Hello, Macaque. Mystic Dragon business?

Macaque: Yeah.

Macaque tried to smile innocently.

Chi Jiao: So, how many of those things did you make?

Macaque: Uh…

He tried to remember, but nothing else came to mind.

Macaque: I think that's the last one.

But suddenly, he remembered his lover—and the chili clone.

Macaque: Oh, wait! NO, THAT ONE’S MINE!

He sprinted off, leaving Chi Jiao behind.

---

Macaque finally reached the arcade.

Macaque: Alright, Chili Clone! Where is he? And you better not have hurt him!

The clone was DJing, red flames blazing higher.

Party Clone Macaque: Oh ho ho! OG Macaque in the house, yoo!

Macaque: I don’t even know what that means! Where’s Wukong?

The clone opened a giant arcade machine’s glass. Inside, the stone monkey was trapped in its claw, burn marks across his body.

Wukong: Hey, Mihou! Mystic Dragon business? You know, you could’ve asked me for help if you wanted to make clones.

Macaque glared and drew his sword.

Macaque: Hand him over, you! Me! Us?!

Party Clone Macaque: Cool your jets, OG. You want to get to me? You gotta go through my boys!

He pressed a button, summoning all the other flaming Macaque clones.

Wukong: Why’d you make so many Macaques, Mihou?! Okay, yeah, they’re you and they’re beautiful—of course not as beautiful as you—but this is too much!

Chili Clone Macaque: Oops, my finger slipped.

He pressed another button, opening a furnace beneath the stone monkey. Wukong screamed in terror.

Macaque: Wukong!

The clone laughed menacingly.

Chili Clone Macaque: Get 'im, boys!

The other clones chased Macaque, while the chili clone kept DJing. Wukong was slowly being lowered.

Wukong: Mihou!

Macaque: I’m coming, Wukong! Hang on!

Macaque hurled his sword like a spear, breaking the arcade glass and pinning the rope to the wall—saving Wukong.

Macaque & Clones: Here comes the Soldier of the Dragon!

The chili clone looked shocked and scared, as the other flame clones closed in.

Macaque yanked back his sword, grabbed Wukong by the hair, and just before they fell into the furnace, summoned all the arcade’s water sources through his sword, blasting the clones. Then he used the water to lift them both out.

They landed near the chili clone.

Wukong: One to go!

Chili Clone Macaque: No, no, no, wait! Wukong, how do you know I'm not the real Macaque? There's two of us at this party!

They both gave him a side-eye. The clone looked at his outfit and realized the obvious.

Chili Clone Macaque: Ah. Not good.

Macaque: Here comes the Soldier of the Dragon!

Macaque put the soaking-wet Wukong in front of him. As Wukong shook himself dry, droplets hit the clone. The clone shed a single fiery tear before exploding.

Chili Clone Macaque: Never forget... da music.

Then he burst, leaving only flames and smoke. Wukong rushed over, checking him all over, ignoring the burn on his own lip and bruises on his face.

Wukong: Are you okay? Any burns or scars?

Macaque shook his head, pulling away.

Macaque: I’m fine, don’t worry. Sorry you got dragged into this clone disaster because of me…

This time, Wukong disagreed. He didn’t want his lover blaming himself for Wukong’s selfishness.

Wukong: This wasn’t your fault. I should’ve left you alone at night, knowing how busy you’ve been this month. I’m sorry, it’s just… I think you’re the only person I can talk to and feel close to in this mortal world, and…

His golden eyes looked down as his tail wrapped around his ankle.

Wukong: Being alone scares me a little… In this dark life of mine, you’re my only Moonlight, Mihou, and I don’t want to lose you…

Seeing his lover so vulnerable, Macaque couldn’t help but empathize.

He was just as much an orphan as Wukong. The only difference was that Macaque had found a home, while Wukong hadn’t. That’s why, from the start, he clung to him so much and wanted to spend all his time with him.

He hugged him tightly, and Wukong’s tail slipped from his ankle.

Macaque: I know, Wukong. And it’s okay. You’ll never lose me, because I’ll always be here with you. The Sun and Moon never part, right?

Wukong smiled when he saw Macaque’s grin, hugging him back.

Wukong: Of course…

As they embraced, Macaque made a suggestion.

Macaque: How about a movie night tonight? Once I finish work, we can watch together… and… you’ll tell me why you’ve got a burn mark on your lip.

Wukong hesitated at first, then nodded. Hearing about the burn mark, he hid in his hoodie. Macaque chuckled menacingly, smoke curling from his mouth and nose.

Wukong: …I thought that was… you…?

---

That evening, Macaque flopped onto the bed while Wukong picked a movie. His eye was bruised, his lip burned, and it was bandaged.

Wukong: So you’re free tonight, huh?

Macaque: Yeah, Tong Bei cut me some slack. After I cleaned up all the ashes. And paid him back for all the food.

Wukong: Glad to hear it!

He chose a Dragon Soldier movie, sat beside him, placed popcorn between them, and pulled a blanket over both.

Wukong: I figured you’d like rewatching the Dragon Soldier movies from the beginning. But if you want, we can pick something else.

Macaque’s eyes sparkled for a moment. Smiling at his lover, he silently leaned in and rested his head on his shoulder.

Macaque: I love you, my peach.

Wukong giggled, leaning his head against Macaque’s as he started the movie.

Wukong: I love you too, my Moonlight.

While the two were safely watching a movie at home, no one noticed a pair of golden eyes watching them outside, especially Sun Wukong.

Chapter Text

Wukong and Macaque were playing the Dragon Avatar arcade outside the shop, while Chi Jiao cheered for the monkey.

Macaque was playing with only one hand since he was sipping spicy bubble tea with the other. Wukong, on the other hand, was furiously mashing the buttons (no matter what anyone says, for me Wukong and MK will always be bad players).

Macaque: Button mash all you want, Wukong. You'll never beat my Ancient Galloping Fury Power.

Chi Jiao: Up smash, up smash!

Wukong: I’m trying, Jiao, okay? I’m trying, I’m trying.

Macaque laughed triumphantly, the smirk never leaving his face.

Macaque: No one can defeat me!

Wukong lowered his head in disappointment. But when his phone rang, he snapped back to reality.

Wukong: Huh?

As Wukong stepped aside to answer the call, the other two stopped playing and turned their curiosity to the golden monkey.

Wukong: Hello? Yeah. Wait, really? Of course. Okay, we’ll be there in 10 minutes.

Chi Jiao and Macaque, noticing the slight confusion on his face, walked up to him.

Chi Jiao: Hey, are you okay, Wukong?

Wukong flinched slightly at the monkey’s voice, then rubbed the back of his neck as he turned to them.

Wukong: Yeah. It’s just… someone said there’s a house inherited to me from my ancestors.

Macaque and Chi Jiao’s eyes lit up as they looked at him.

Macaque: Wukong, that’s great news! I’m so happy for you!

Macaque hugged his lover, though Chi Jiao could still sense that he was uneasy.

Chi Jiao: So… is this a bad thing, Wukong?

Macaque also pulled away from the hug, looking at his partner with concern, while Wukong shook his head.

Wukong: No. I just think I’m a little nervous. I mean, I only ever heard of some of my ancestors through legends, and for me to be left an inheritance… it just feels unusual.

Macaque and Chi Jiao began to grow slightly suspicious as they frowned and turned to the monkey.

Macaque: Maybe before moving in, we should do a little research on the house. Check if it’s a trap or not. What do you think?

Even though Wukong was still a bit tense, he nodded. He trusted his lover in matters like these—he never doubted his knowledge of what was or wasn’t a trap.

Wukong: Whatever you say, Mihou. So… shall we go now?

The others nodded and began following Wukong.

Macaque: Uou know what? If that really is your house, I’ll bring my Dragon Soldier DVDs to celebrate.

The trio didn’t notice the General Celestial Bot watching them from afar.

---

Yang Shu smirked as he watched through the bot, then opened a hologram of Wukong’s house, gazing at the Golden Staff inside.

Yang Shu: The Legendary Golden Staff. That staff is amongst the most powerful artifacts in history. I do love powerful things. Go. Bring it to me.

After Yang Shu gave the order, the bot began following them.

---

At last, the trio arrived at the house.

The house was mostly golden. The garden was more vibrant and heavenly compared to the outside world.

Behind the garden were statues related to goddesses and monkeys, the grass was almost unnaturally lively, and the walls were golden-crimson. There was even a fountain in the middle of the garden.

Truly, if heaven existed anywhere in the mortal world, it would be this house.

Macaque: It’s even better than I imagined! Living here must be amazing. But still, we should be cautious first.

While Macaque composed himself, Wukong was simply examining the house.

Everything felt so familiar.

The statues in the garden, the peach trees, even the house itself felt familiar.

When he heard his friends’ voices, Wukong snapped out of the trance-like state.

Macaque & Chi Jiao: Wow.

They stood in front of the door. The security system scanned them and marked them as enemies, targeting them, but Wukong rushed over, pressed some random buttons, and deactivated it.

Wukong: Yeah, I think I managed to shut it down.

The door opened, and a male voice was heard.

Security System VO: Welcome home, Sun Wukong.

Wukong: Yeah.

The three of them entered. Inside were countless antiques, weapons, and other valuable items. The walls displayed images of a serpent-bodied goddess, monkey subjects, and motifs of humans living in order.

Macaque: This is amazing!

Chi Jiao: Whoa. What is all this stuff? 

As the other two carefully examined the weapons, Wukong focused on the motifs on the walls.

They felt strangely familiar, yet distant.

Macaque: If I had all this stuff, I don't even know what I would do. Sell it, probably.

Chi Jiao: Yeah, this stuff looks really great. Looks like a few good years, maybe. Centuries.

Macaque: Most likely.

Wukong finally pulled his gaze away from the motifs and turned to them.

Wukong: Let’s keep going.

They nodded and followed his lead.

The house was enormous, with gardens and pools that rivaled the heavens. Everything Wukong needed for his livelihood—and much more—was right there.

It was so beautiful and peaceful that it almost didn’t feel like a trap anymore.

Even Macaque was starting to believe it, though Wukong still felt something strange.

As if something—or someone—was waiting for him.

The images were far too familiar, though he couldn’t understand why.

As they passed one room, Macaque spotted a crimson-and-gold staff beside a statue.

Macaque: Whoa, whoa, whoa. Hold up.

The group rushed over, gazing in excitement at the Golden Staff.

Macaque: Whoa. Now this thing is cool. So what's the dealio with this dealy, sweetheart?

While Macaque examined the staff, Wukong pointed to the mural of the serpent-bodied goddess surrounded by monkeys, staring at it in awe.

Wukong: This was the staff of my great-great-great ancestor, Qi Xiaoatian. Legends say that Goddess Nuwa bestowed unimaginable power into it so his kingdom would always have protection. Its true power will only reveal itself to those deemed worthy. He proved himself strong enough to protect our people from evil forces, a true member of our clan… But they all died. And Qi Xiaoatian was the worst of them all.

Macaque and Chi Jiao’s excitement dimmed at his last words, though their eyes still sparkled. Macaque then examined the blueprint of the house they had been given.

Macaque: Whoa… Hey… there’s a game room in here.

Wukong: But I’m sure I won’t be able to lift that thing anyway. And yeah.

Chi Jiao suddenly seemed to forget all about the staff and nodded.

Chi Jiao: Alright then.

As the two walked ahead, Wukong stared sadly at the goddess-and-monkey murals before following them.

---

The trio reached the game room. Macaque’s eyes lit up when he saw a pinball machine. He even hugged it before starting to play.

Macaque: A pinball machine? I've always wanted to try one of these.

Wukong: Yeah, I think that proves this place really is our home. All right. You two boot up the old TV. I will go get some sn-n-n-nacks. Okay, don't break anything while I'm gone!

Macaque grinned at this.

Macaque: We won’t, peach!

But then Chi Jiao accidentally pulled the pinball piston too hard, breaking it.

Macaque: Noooo!

The two panicked and tried to fix it.

---

Meanwhile, Wukong was quickly grabbing things as he walked through the corridor.

Wukong: Party, board games, snacks, Celestial Bot.

He suddenly stopped—passing right by the General Celestial trying to steal the staff. He froze, locking eyes with the clone. The moment General Celestial realized Wukong had seen him, the staff was still in his hands.

Wukong: Wait a minute, YOU’RE A CELESTIAL BOT!

The General kicked a golden table into his face and tried to escape with the staff.

Wukong: Hey! Get back here!

Summoning his cloud, Wukong chased after him through the house, trying to protect his ancestors’ relics.

---

Back in the game room, Macaque was desperately trying to fix the pinball machine with duct tape.

Chi Jiao: Careful, careful.

The machine broke even worse.

Macaque: "What?!"

Chi Jiao: We're going to need more tape.

---

Wukong was still in pursuit. The house was getting damaged, but he managed to crash into the bot mid-air, sending both flying. Wukong slammed into a wall, and the staff landed on his lap.

Nervously, he reached for it.

Wukong: Golden Staff?

As he lifted his head, he saw monkey subjects surrounding him, whispering.

And they weren’t saying kind things.

Monkey 1: The faulty one.

Monkey 2: Such a huge disappointment.

Monkey 3: Do you really call yourself a hero?

Monkey 4: A death weapon that should never have existed.

Monkey 5: I wonder why you haven’t killed yourself yet.

Wukong clutched the staff tightly, barely holding back tears.

He hated these thoughts. How they always returned whenever he was alone.

He hated being so pathetic.

Why was he like this? Why couldn’t he just be strong like the others, instead of always feeling like he had to hide?

Why couldn’t he just be strong?

"You are strong, Sun Wukong. You just don’t know your potential yet. Even you. Let me help you, with my voice you can finally be treated the way you deserve. Rise up and hold your head high, Sun Wukong."

Wukong’s eyes briefly glowed with a golden flicker at that all-too-familiar voice.

He tightened his grip on the staff and stood tall, determination in his expression.

Wukong: You know what? I’m part of this history. I am Sun Wukong. I descend from Goddess Nuwa’s bloodline. This is mine, and this is my house.

Channeling the power of the staff, his form grew into a kaiju-like shape. His golden eyes turned hostile as he rose into the air and glared down at the Celestial Bot.

Wukong: Get out of my house!

A golden beam erupted from the staff, obliterating the bot. When the light faded, Wukong returned to his usual form.

---

Meanwhile, in the game room, the pinball machine was barely held together with duct tape.

Chi Jiao: Maybe a little more tape?

At that word, Macaque’s eye twitched. He sighed dramatically, then struck a warrior pose.

Macaque: No, no. I broke it. Part of being a soldier is owning up to your mistakes. Wish me luck.

Chi Jiao wished him luck as he walked off dramatically.

---

Macaque finally found his lover. Though nervous, he knew he had to do this.

He sighed, then walked up to Wukong.

Macaque: So, um, Wukong, you know that really cool --

But when he saw the wrecked room, his concern grew and he rushed to him.

Macaque: Wukong?! What happened?!

Wukong excitedly turned to his lover.

Wukong: Mihou! Someone tried to steal the Golden Staff. I stopped them with this, the Golden Staff!

He proudly showed the weapon.

Macaque: Whoa, the Golden Staff. That’s…

He sighed, ready to confess.

Macaque: Wukong, I'm really glad you stopped them, but I have a confession to make. I accidentally --

Wukong tilted his head cutely, still smiling innocently.

Wukong: Accidentally what?

Macaque didn’t want to ruin his lover’s joy, so he quickly lied.

Macaque: Accidentally... didn't know what was going on. Wow, that thing's amazing.

As the two admired the staff, Chi Jiao caught up to them, turning immediately to Macaque.

Chi Jiao: Macaque! I finally fixed the pinball machine! I even made a few upgrades, but—

Macaque quickly signaled for him to be quiet, and Chi Jiao zipped his mouth shut. Then Liu’er turned back to his lover.

Macaque: Wukong, I’m really sorry. I didn’t mean to break something in your house, I just—

But Wukong suddenly laughed, leaving Macaque confused.

Wukong: Don’t worry about it. It’s just a game machine. I’m sure there are plenty more around here. Don’t beat yourself up over an object—none of it is more precious than you.

He suddenly hugged him. Macaque was surprised at first, but then returned the embrace.

Macaque: I know I say this a lot, but I love you so much, Peach. I don’t know what I’d do without you.

Wukong: Me too, Mihou… me too.

After breaking the hug, they prepared to leave.

For now, Wukong wanted to stay in the house. He wanted to get used to it, and also investigate its mysteries on his own.

After saying goodbye to the two, Wukong closed the door with a sigh. His eyes drifted from the staff to the murals.

Just as he prepared to investigate further, that familiar voice echoed within the house.

???????: Welcome home, my son. I’ve been waiting for you a long time.

At the sudden voice, Wukong brandished his staff and growled.

Wukong: Who are you, and what are you doing in my house?! Show yourself!

But when golden eyes appeared at the end of the corridor, all Wukong could do was stare in horror at their owner.

Chapter Text

Tong Bei and Xiangliu were out at the market, shopping for ingredients to make dumplings.

Tong Bei: Ho ho! Now this is a beautiful meat! Couple more finds like this baby and we're golden!

But Xiangliu looked bored. He snatched the meat from Tong Bei’s hands and examined it.

Xiangliu: Looks the same as the last 20,000 meat we've looked at!

Tong Bei looked offended as he snatched it back.

Tong Bei: Give me that! I wouldn't expect you to appreciate a fine meat like this. You ain't no culinary genius, like me!

As Tong Bei laughed, the serpent demon shot him an irritated glare. All of Xiangliu’s snakes slithered loose from his hair, baring their poisonous fangs at Tong Bei.

The tense moment was interrupted by a woman’s silky voice echoing from the shadows.

????: My, my, my! You boys are making quite a scene. Looking to buy some ingredients? Something tasty? You’ve come to the right place.

A woman appeared with green hair and piercing purple eyes. Her hair resembled a scorpion’s tail, and she wore an outfit the same striking color as her eyes.

She blew them a kiss, and Xiangliu grimaced with disgust. He yanked Tong Bei closer and slapped a paper onto his back that read “Belongs to Xiangliu.”

Xiangliu: Uh… oh! Come on, Bei, let’s just keep going. Huh!?

Tong Bei giggled as he browsed the ingredients with interest, slipping out of Xiangliu’s grip. Tonight, he’d better sleep with one eye open…

Tong Bei: Y-you are selling beautiful ingreditens today?

Xiangliu shot him a sharp side-eye.

Xiangliu: Are you blind? Because if you are, I’m calling my lawyer.

Scorpion Queen: That’s right, sugar, this is the finest store in the whole market. Why don’t come around back and look at my exclusive wears?

As the woman slinked back into the shadows, Tong Bei perked up at the mention of clothes.

Tong Bei: Ooh!

Xiangliu: I’m not sure, uh—

But the monkey didn’t listen and marched off.

Tong Bei: Don’t wreck this for me! I need this!

Xiangliu sighed and chased after him.

Scorpion Queen: A little closer, a little closer!

Tong Bei and Xiangliu screamed as they tumbled through a trapdoor. Behind them, the woman’s wicked laughter echoed.

---

At the Sea-Crate Headquarters, Wukong was playing Dragon Avatar while Chi Jiao sat looking thoughtful.

After that strange event, Wukong had gone over to his red-furred friend, not wanting to disturb Macaque since he knew he’d be working.

Chi Jiao: Hey, you think it's weird that we don't spend much time in the Sea-Crate Base? Like, we haven't been down here for weeks.

Wukong: Yeah, and if you think about it, do we even need to be down here right now?

Suddenly, Macaque burst in, panicking. Both of them turned to the frantic monkey.

Macaque: Guys! Our gay old married couple have kicked the bucket at Diyu’s doorstep!

They both stared at him in shock. Wukong set down his game and turned to his lover.

Wukong: Kicked the bucket? What do you mean kicked the bucket?

Macaque: I mean they didn’t open the shop this morning! And there was an ugly sign on the door saying the shop now belongs to me!

Chi Jiao: But he's never not open his store before! Especially not just to hand it over to you after what happened last time!

Macaque: He’s definitely dead!

Chi Jiao: I immediately fear the worst!

While they were panicking, Wukong ran to the computer and pulled up Tong Bei’s camera feed. The others calmed down enough to look.

Macaque: Hey, that’s Tong Bei. Oh phew, he's just went shopping.

Chi Jiao: Who’s filming this?

When they noticed the cameraman munching on dumplings, they immediately realized it was Xiangliu.

Macaque: That’s Xiangliu! Oh, now I get why Tong Bei’s back is covered in stuff. What’s that?

Wukong grinned proudly.

Wukong: I attached cameras to all of you guys a while back. Not so creepy now, is it?

Macaque: It's a little creepy. And Wukong, I swear, if that camera’s in the wrong place on me, I’ll—

Chi Jiao suddenly pointed at the screen.

Chi Jiao: Aw, she seems nice. Maybe they're fine.

But when they watched the rest of the video, Chi Jiao groaned in disappointment.

Chi Jiao: Oh, no! I was wrong. This is very, very, very bad!

Macaque: Scary nightmare hole! What happened?

Wukong: It looks like…

He rewound the video to see the woman again.

Wukong: Is that…

Chi Jiao: Enhanced! Enhanced!

Wukong zoomed, revealing the woman’s true form: a scorpion.

Macaque recoiled in horror.

Macaque: Uh, Scorpion Demon?! Come on! Come on. No. Ew, yuck, I hate scorpions! Hate, hate, hate! With their smug little stingers, their creepy legs! And—ugh—their touch, their venom, the burning—!

But nobody seemed to care about Macaque’s phobia.

Chi Jiao: Okay, a Scorpion Demon's got our friends. You know what that means?

Wukong: It’s time…

Narrator: Operation: Rescue Xiangliu and Tong Bei from the Nightmare Hole.

The trio and Sha Shou prepared for their mission, then boarded Chi Jiao’s speedboat and sped away from the base.

Chi Jiao: Where to?

Wukong checked the GPS on his phone.

Wukong: Across town!

In Megapolis, civilians spotted the trio zooming by in the speedboat. People scattered in panic, but the monkeys didn’t even notice.

Wukong & Macaque: Woo-hoo! Rescue mission!

---

The two sat inside a cage that looked like a scorpion’s nest as Xiangliu rolled his eyes.

Xiangliu: You just had to go in there.

Tong Bei: She said she had ingredients.

Xiangliu: I don't think that's what you were looking for, Bei.

Suddenly, in another cage nearby, two men began talking. The pair tried to look around but couldn’t find them — only their voices echoed.

Man 1: You tell him. No one likes a know-it-all.

Man 2: Know-it-all? You're the know-it-all!

Man 1: I wasn't talking to you, I was talking to the two new suckers!

As the Scorpion Queen emerged from the shadows, both men fell silent.

Scorpion Queen: Babies, quiet time. The Queen is back.

Tong Bei: What do you want? Money?

His mouth was filled with sand before he could say more, and he gagged.

The Scorpion Queen went to her cauldron, preparing her meal.

Scorpion Queen: What could I want, hm? I used to be the most feared creature in the land. I wasn't a queen, I was the queen. Empress of Terror and Mistress of Horror. But now, uh, just look at this place. Look what's left of my empire. Nothing but a hole in the ground. So, what do you think the Scorpion Queen could possibly want? Anyway, a girl's gotta do what a girl's gotta do. And you lot, will do.

Xiangliu laughed nervously.

Xiangliu: Uh, do for what?

The Scorpion Queen giggled and licked her lips.

Scorpion Queen: Dinner!

As she laughed maniacally, the two men in the other cage began trembling in fear.

---

The trio continued sailing toward the marketplace on a speedboat.

Wukong: Dead ahead!

They entered a tunnel together.

Wukong & Macaque: Rescue mission!

---

Inside the cage, the two hugged each other in terror while Xiangliu tried to comfort the monkey.

Xiangliu: Don't worry, Bei. I'm sure Liu'er will be here to rescue us any minute.

The Scorpion Queen laughed while stirring her pot.

Scorpion Queen: Ain't no one gonna rescue you, sweet thing.

Xiangliu: Shows what you know. Our friend, the Soldier of the Dragon, is probably already on his way.

Scorpion Queen: The Soldier of the Dragon?

She laughed mockingly.

Scorpion Queen: Why would he come and help you?

Xiangliu bit back his irritation and hugged the monkey tighter, smiling smugly.

Xiangliu: Well, I'm kind of like a father figure.

Tong Bei glared at him as Xiangliu chuckled.

Tong Bei: The Dragon Soldier’s going to kill you, you know that—

Xiangliu cut him off, still focused on the demon.

Xiangliu: I think you better let us go. Before he comes and, uh, burns you with Dragon's Soldier legendary blade!

Scorpion Queen: Hmm. Interesting. 'Fraid dinner would have to wait. We gotta get this place ready for company.

She laughed as she left, while Xiangliu turned to hug and comfort Tong Bei.

Xiangliu: Don't worry, Bei. Liu'er is far too smart to fall into one of her traps.

---

Meanwhile, Macaque was climbing out of the boat with the others.

Wukong: Maybe you should've saved your boat for an adventure with more water.

Chi Jiao: Yeah, I, uh, just got excited.

Suddenly, Macaque screamed.

Macaque: SCORPION DEMON!

A baby scorpion in his hair giggled. Wukong blew it away gently.

Wukong: Don’t worry, sweetheart. It’s just a little scorpion baby. Come on, let’s find Tong Bei.

Chi Jiao: And Xiangliu.

Macaque: Ok, I'll use my super dragon-sight to find our friends in this palace of nightmares.

His eyes glowed bright green as he activated his power and looked around.

Chi Jiao: What do you see, Macaque?

Macaque spotted several scorpions and immediately gagged, shutting his power off.

Macaque: Ew! Ew! This place is full of scorpions and horror! We're never gonna get though all this!

Wukong protectively placed his hand on his boyfriend’s shoulder and pulled him close as Macaque blushed bright red.

Wukong: Ahem. If you’ll allow me.

He used his staff to blow a huge hole in the wall.

They found their friends trapped in a cage, and Chi Jiao pointed. Macaque pushed Wukong aside and tightened his grip on his sword.

Chi Jiao: Tong Bei! Xiangliu!

Everyone except Macaque was hit by scorpion venom and began to glow faintly.

Wukong: Mihou!

Macaque: Wukong!

The staff fell in front of them as they were dropped into the cage. Macaque trembled in fear as he felt someone behind him — and turned to see the Scorpion Queen.

Scorpion Queen: Don’t tell me you’re scared of scorpions?~

Tong Bei spat out sand and shouted.

Tong Bei: Liu’er, run!

But Macaque froze. His sword fell from his hand as flashes of bloodstained walls, screams, and a purple flame filled his mind. Green and purple lightning sparked around him, even jumping between his eyes. His friends’ screams snapped him out of the trance.

All: LIU’ER!

Macaque rolled under the queen, grabbed his sword, and bolted.

As the Scorpion Queen chased him, Tong Bei spotted the staff on the ground.

Tong Bei: I'm sorry, Xiangliu. I got this into this mess. We're gonna meet to work together to get out of it.

Xiangliu: Mm-hm.

The two — and the rest of the team — pushed the cage, finally unlocking it with the staff’s end. Everyone struck heroic poses.

Narrator: Operation Operation: Macaque from the Nightmare Hole

---

As Macaque ran, the Scorpion Queen’s laughter echoed through the cave.

Macaque: Huh?

Scorpion Queen: So, And you're the little dragon spawn old Dragon Soldier chose?

Macaque: Hey! I’m a Dragon Man!

The queen lunged, pinning him to a wall. His sword clattered to the ground as he gasped for breath.

Scorpion Queen: Do you wanna know what you are? You're my ticket back to the throne. All that power the Dragon Soldier give you. After I made my dinner, it's all gonna be my power.

She grabbed a lock of his dark hair, smirking.

Tong Bei: Hey, you, scorpion lady!

She and Macaque turned to see the team posing dramatically.

Xiangliu: Here comes Soldier Of The Dragon's…friend's!

Tong Bei: That's right! We got a catchphrase too!

The queen rolled her eyes.

Scorpion Queen: You and your friends are terrible guests.

Wukong glared at her, his voice rising with anger.

Wukong: You were going to eat my boyfriend! And also these guys! Well, now you're gonna eat this!

He pressed a button on the speedboat’s control panel, activating a laser.

Wukong: Sha Shou, fire!

Sha Shou used the laser to distract the queen long enough for Macaque to escape.

Wukong: Mihou, it's time to go!

Macaque: Right!

He scrambled to grab his sword, but the queen came back, attacking him with her mech.

Macaque: I’M SORRY!

The ground gave way beneath them, sending the team and the Scorpion Queen falling. She caught herself with her mech’s claws, but the others kept falling and screamed.

Chi Jiao spotted a river and grinned.

Chi Jiao: Water adventure? It's a water adventure!  Macaque, come on!

Everyone jumped into the speedboat, heading into a sewer pipe that led out to the ocean. Macaque flipped his wet hair back dramatically while the others groaned in exhaustion.

Narrator: Operation: Rescue Xiangliu and Tong Bei, success.

Wukong: At least we don't have to deal with her again, right?..

---

Back in her lair, the Scorpion Queen stood by her cauldron, cackling wickedly.

Scorpion Queen: They think they’ve won?

She dropped a strand of Macaque’s hair into the cauldron. It glowed bright green as she laughed again.

Scorpion Queen: The game is just beginning.

Chapter Text

Macaque was snoring in his bed when suddenly his room began to shake. He woke up in terror.

Macaque: What?  Earthquake!  Oh, no-o-o-o. All my pwecious pwossessions. Huh?

When he saw the time, he started to panic.

Macaque: 9:01. I'm late for work! My blade, my blade, where’s my blade? My blade? Tong Bei is gonna kill me! Okay. Socks. Clothes. Let’s go. And then Mei, or Wukong, or Xiangliu will kill him! Then Chi Jiao will come back for revenge!

After putting on his work clothes, Macaque went downstairs to the dumpling shop.

Macaque: And I'm here. Tong Bei!  I'm so sorry I'm late. I overslept, and I guess I didn't set an alarm?  Honestly, I don't even remember going to bed. And the earthquake, and-and-and-- please don't fire me.

Macaque bowed sadly as Tong Bei turned around. He was smiling cheerfully.

This terrified Macaque. At this point, he would’ve preferred a knife.

Tong Bei: Fire you? Ha! Why would I fire you?

Macaque: Uh, well, last time you said, "If you are one minute late ever again, you are fired."

Tong Bei: I said that?

Xiangliu: That doesn't sound like my best friend Tong.

Macaque nearly pinched himself when he realized the snake demon had called him “Tong.” ALSO, STRANGELY ENOUGH, THERE WERE NO SNAKE BITES ON TONG BEI’S SHOULDER.

Macaque: Uh—

The world shook again and the images flickered.

Macaque: It’s happening again!

When the tremors stopped, the two demons looked at him with concern.

Tong Bei: Again? What you talking about, Macaque?

Macaque: Did you not feel that? 

Tong Bei: Feel what?

Xiangliu: I think Macaque's got a real case of the Mondays, hmm? 

Macaque reached for his blade again but it was still gone.

Macaque: Hmm, maybe Dragon Soldier took it? Oh, the blade. Yeah. Well, it must be really good over there.

Tong Bei was staring at him like he’d gone insane.

Tong Bei: The sword’s not with Miss Dragon Soldier, Macaque.

Macaque sighed in relief. But when he heard the word “Miss” he flinched a little.

Macaque: Oh. That's a relief. Wait, where is it? 

As Macaque stared in confusion, Xiangliu spoke.

Xiangliu: On top of the mountain, sealing away the Yaoji and her entire family.

Macaque: Uhh, say what now? 

Xiangliu tilted his head in confusion.

Xiangliu: You do remember, right?

The snake demon sighed and walked up to his friend.

Xiangliu: I keep saying you work him too hard.

Tong Bei nodded and smiled.

Tong Bei: That's it. You're taking a day off.

Macaque’s eyes lit up with excitement, and then he dashed out of the dumpling shop.

Macaque: My first day off in two whole years. This is a perfect day.

Crowd: Perfect!

Macaque: No traffic at rush hour? 

Crowd: Perfect!

Macaque: Free shoes and spicy tea samples?

Crowd: Perfect!

Macaque: Beat all the high scores on Dragon Avatar?

Crowd: Perfect!

Macaque: More free spicy tea samples?

Crowd: Perfect!

Macaque laughed nervously and glanced back.

Macaque: You guys really are driving that point home, huh?

The crowd vibrated behind him. Another quake hit, then stopped.

Macaque: Whoa. What was that?  Uh, yeah, something's definitely up here. But what? Hmm.

As he thought about everything, something clicked.

Macaque: Tong Bei smiled… he never smiles. And Xiangliu called him “Tong”… That bastard only calls him “Bei” to piss him off! I got to tell Wukong!

Macaque ran until Wukong appeared before him with a serious look. The sight made him pause.

Wukong: Hey, Macaque. You good? 

Macaque smiled nervously at his monkey lover.

Macaque: Peach! am I glad to see you. Please tell me you can see them too.

The crowd loomed over Macaque’s shoulders, their appearance terrifying.

Crowd: Perfect.

But the golden monkey didn’t seem to care. He lifted his hand to silence them, then grabbed Macaque by the wrist and pulled him up.

Wukong: None of that matters. We're gonna be late.

Macaque: Late for what?

Wukong kept walking without smiling or turning to him.

Wukong: Our classic book club. On Chi Jiao’s boat.

This reaction unsettled Macaque even more.

---

The boat had become entirely book-themed. Even some of the monkeys were holding books.

Macaque looked around in confusion just as Chi Jiao, now wearing glasses, approached him.

Macaque: Uh, love what you've done with your boat, Chi Jiao.

Chi Jiao: Isn't it perfect? I've finally figured it out. I felt like I really needed to cement what my role was in the group dynamic. And then, it just came to me. Boom! The classic activity builder! Anyway, I’ll be right back with some books.

As Chi Jiao walked off, Macaque chuckled nervously and immediately ran over to Wukong.

Macaque: Sweetheart, something really bad and really weird is going on. I think I'm losing it. There's all these earthquakes, and Tong Bei said I beat Yaoji, and everything is is all-

Wukong just sighed and pushed him away.

Wukong: Perfect? Yeah, I know. And I still don’t get why you call me “sweetheart.” We’re just friends. Like brothers. Not lovers.

At that moment, Macaque’s world shattered. He rubbed his head, looking completely traumatized.

Macaque: Oh, no, it’s spreading.

Wukong: Macaque, stop rambling and start reading already.

Macaque angrily snatched the book out of his hands.

Macaque: You don’t even like reading anything other than comics and action books! Also, may I remind you, sir, we’ve been dating for two years! And don’t you dare tell me you forgot about last night!

When Macaque threw the comic at him, Wukong froze for a second in panic.

Wukong: Wait! So—

---

In a ruined building, two spider demons were arguing over the gourd.

One had green hair and dressed quite modernly.

The other was bald on the sides and dressed more like a hunter.

Syntax: No, it's my turn. You're just going to tell him everything's perfect again.

Hunstman: Oi. You forfeited your turn when you told me they should be brothers.

Syntax: Oh! That was your idea!

Hunstman tore up a picture showing Macaque and Wukong as best friends.

Hunstman: But they’re lovers. You should know that.

Syntax groaned and smacked his forehead, pulling out a large book.

Syntax: Well, there's got to be something about this in our scheme book. Okay, uh, let's see here. Step one: Imprison Soldier of the Dragon in the Calabash.

They checked off the page.

Hunstman: Right. Done.

Syntax: Step two: Convince Soldier of the Dragon he's not in the Calabash.

They didn’t check that one off.

Hunstman: Okay. We'll call that one "work in progress". Next?

Syntax: That’s it—that’s all we’ve got. Just two steps.

Hunstman: Oh! We really need to put in more time into the development stage.

Then the spider picked up the gourd.

Hunstman: All right, all right, I can fix this.

Hunstman whispered into the gourd, letting his words echo toward Wukong.

Wukong: Haha, brother?  I meant to say... I love being your boyfriend!

As Wukong laughed awkwardly, Macaque grew even more distressed.

Macaque: Uh, you know what? I-I-I need to -- Uh, I'll see you later.

Wukong: As lovers?

Macaque: …Yep.

As he ran off, the faces of both monkeys darkened.

Wukong: I think I nailed it.

Chi Jiao: Hm. Let's make sure.

---

Macaque tried to run away from all the madness and chaos.

He didn’t know what was happening—whether he was going insane or something else entirely. It felt like he was drowning.

When he turned into an alley, he tripped over a trash can and fell. As he lay there disgusted with himself, a familiar voice called out.

Mei: How you doing down there? 

When Macaque saw his mentor standing atop a building, he was filled with excitement and hope.

Macaque: Dragon Soldier! Wait a minute. What are you doing here? 

Mei: Ah, you know. Hanging, chilling. Dragon Soldier around. Uh, anyway, enough about me. What's new with you?  You seem agitated.

Macaque: Well, yeah. I mean, everyone's got dumb brain! Tong Bei gave me the day off, and Wukong said he sees me as… his brother. BROTHER! After last night! I think I’m losing it!

---

Meanwhile, in the real world, the real Mei was brushing one of the baby dragons’ wings.

Suddenly, the comb snapped. Electricity flickered across her eyes as the left eye of one of the dragon statues cracked.
The little dragon tried to squirm away, but Mei held it firmly.

Mei: I don’t know why, Bai… but… I think I have to kill someone. Someone orange.

---

Back in the strange world, Macaque clutched his hair in frustration as Mei flipped down acrobatically from the rooftop, landing gracefully with a smile.

Mei: Ah, you're not crazy. This is all very normal. My power's just... so great. It's probably too much for your brain to handle. You're going to see some weird stuff. You've just gotta accept it.

Macaque grew more suspicious by the second.
Mei? Dragon Soldier? “Accept it”? Not killing Wukong?
And the magazine she was reading wasn’t even about women?!

Macaque: Accept it, huh?

Mei: Yeah, accept it. Apart from that brother bit, it all sounds fine. Perfect. Uh, but you know, if you think about it, actually, maybe you and Wukong would be... like a really -he

When she realized Macaque was gone, her smile faded.

Mei: Macaque? Gaw, dang it.

---

Macaque finally reached the mountain where Yaoji and her family were sealed with the staff.

Macaque: This is fine, this is fine. I can figure this out. I'm definitely not going crazy. It's everyone else that's going crazy.

When he saw the sword, he brightened up.

Macaque: My blade!

Just as he was about to grab it, Wukong appeared behind him. His smile was unsettling.

Wukong: Hey, Mac. What are you doing?

Macaque: I said I’m gonna check on sexy mommy and sexy daddy! What’s it to you?!

But Wukong’s smile immediately disappeared.

Wukong: Check on them? You can’t! If you do that, then Yaoji will return!

Macaque tried to back away but bumped into the red monkey.

Chi Jiao: Leave the sword where it is, dude.

The others appeared too, and a chill ran down his spine.

Their smiles were terrifying.

Xiangliu: Oh, Macaque, you don't want that mean Yaoji to return, do you? 

Macaque: DON’T YOU TALK! AND IF I’M GONNA STAY HERE FOREVER, I’D RATHER DO IT WITH HER SON!

Tong Bei: Why don't we just go back to the shop? I'll make us all a nice tray of dumplings.

As if that wasn’t enough, his mentor appeared too.

Mei: You can still have your perfect life.

Then, suddenly, a monkey appeared on the boy’s shoulder and started talking.

Sha Shou: Yeah, we can all just hang out.

There was a brief silence as everyone realized their plan had fallen apart.

Wukong: Hunstman! The monkey's
not meant to talk.

The person controlling Tong Bei—Hunstman—rubbed the back of his neck.

Tong Bei: Yeah, jig's up. Let's get him!

They all lunged at the boy. Macaque ran toward the sword, but the group piled on him. Even so, he kept reaching for it, green and purple lightning swirling around him.

Macaque: Here… Comes…

Xiangliu: No.

Chi Jiao: He’s too strong.

Tong Bei: Stop reaching!

Mei: No!

Macaque: …Soldier of the Dragon!

As Macaque grabbed the sword, he escaped from the gourd in a flash.
Back in the real world, Syntax and Hunstman were hiding in a corner.

Macaque: Who are you?

When the spotlight hit them, they struck dramatic poses—though keeping a safe distance from Macaque.

Hunstman: We’re your worst nightmare. Hunstman.

Syntax: Syntax.

Hunstman: The Spider Demons!

But Syntax didn’t look pleased.

Syntax: Dude, that was my line!

Hunstman: I'm not having this conversation again. I say it!

Macaque just stared at them, then glanced toward you, like, “Can you believe this crap?”

Macaque: Okay, got it. You're demons. Uh, what am I doing here? 

They stopped bickering and turned to him dramatically.

Syntax: We heard about the great Soldier of The Dragon and knew that you would be a worthy adversary.

Hunstman: Yes. And through cunning and guile, we called out to you, and you foolishly... answered.

---

Later, Macaque went to deliver some dumpling orders in an alley, completely unaware of what was coming.

He knocked on the door, and a thin voice answered.

Hunstman: Who is it?

Macaque: Tong Bei’s Dumplings! The spiciest dumplings in the—

Syntax: He has to answer to his name, remember? 

Hunstman nodded and cleared his throat.

Hunstman: Oh, yeah. This app thingy says you have to identify yourself. Is your name  “Macaque".

Macaque: Yeah, Macaque, but what’s it to—

The door opened, and Macaque was instantly sucked into the gourd.

---

Hunstman: The Calabash was supposed to contain you forever!

Syntax: At least until we figured out step three. 

Hunstman: Right. Uh, but instead, we'll have to destroy you the good old-fashioned way.

They struck another dramatic pose while Macaque sighed and drew his sword.

Macaque: Fine! I feel like a fight.

The two spiders looked shocked and whispered to each other.

Hunstman: Um, I think he knows we're bluffing.

Syntax: Oh, I just figured out step three.

Both: Smoke bomb!

They threw two smoke bombs and ran for an exit far from Macaque.
But he could still see them—and hear Hunstman’s laughter.

Hunstman: We're the greatest trickster!

Syntax: Ever!

Macaque: My ass is trickier than you idiots.

---

Macaque finally returned to the shop.

Macaque: Um, Wukong? Xiangliu?

Tong Bei, irritated and disappointed, marched over to him.

Tong Bei: Where have you been, Liu’er? I've got—

Before he could finish, Macaque jumped in front of him.

Macaque: Tong Bei! Wait, is it?

When Macaque touched the white monkey’s face, Tong Bei’s irritation skyrocketed.

Tong Bei: If you don't get your hands off me, you're fired!

Macaque, teary-eyed and relieved, hugged his boss tightly.

Macaque: It is you. Oh-ho-ho-ho, my sweet Tong Bei! Tong Bei, it’s you!

Tong Bei was startled by the sudden hug, awkwardly patting his shoulder.

Tong Bei: Uh, what’s happening?

Macaque pulled away and smiled innocently at the group.

Macaque: Sorry. It's just... I'm just really glad none of you are perfect.

That didn’t seem to please them.

All Three: What?!

Tong Bei: What are you talking about? This job's the most perfect thing you're ever going to get!

Xiangliu: I so too am perfect. You've got dumb brain. That's what you've got!

Wukong: Wait, so you lied to me?..

As the two argued and Wukong cried in the distance, Macaque sighed contentedly.

Macaque: Perfect…

Chapter Text

A montage of racing cars zooming around was shown for the Great Wall Race.

Announcer: Once a year, this city becomes more than a city. Once a year, these streets... become more than streets. This year... the winner will become... immortal!

The camera cut and zoomed out to show a giant trophy shaped like an Immortality Peach. Then the scene shifted to a television screen. Two of the couples gasped in awe.

Macaque: A Peach of Immortality!

Tong Bei, confused, glanced at the kids.

Tong Bei: Uh... Peach of what now?

The two turned to the monkey in disbelief and shouted at him.

Wukong & Macaque: A PEACH OF İMMORTALİTY!! HOW OLD ARE YOU EVEN!!!

Xiangliu coughed to draw attention, and everyone fell silent, turning to the snake demon.

Xiangliu: If you’ll allow me. Legend says there is a sacred field of trees which grows in the Heavenly Realm, protected by the gods themselves. Every few thousand years, these trees bring forth the Peaches of Immortality. Against the wishes of the Heavenly Host, the Dragon Soldier and her unnamed companion took them all, making themselves immortal!

Tong Bei’s eyes widened in shock.

Tong Bei: Wait. I thought the Dragon Soldier was already immortal.

Wukong: Tong, you're missing the point! Whoever wins this race will...

The scene shifted, Erlang of the Yang family finished Wukong’s sentence.

Erlang: Live forever!

But when he realized his family wasn’t listening, he turned to them in frustration.

Erlang: A-Are you two even listening?!

His parents continued talking indifferently.

Yang Shu: Uh... something about peaches? Look, your schemes are quaint, but I never much cared for stone fruit.

Erlang: But... the peaches are powerful!

His father cut him off sharply and mockingly.

Yang Shu: Like the Weather Station was powerful? Why don't you just run along, hmm? Can't you see Mommy and Daddy have important business with an ancient power source.

Yaoji’s eyes glowed white as the Celestial Boots tried to pry open the white cage marked with the goddess symbol and a serpent.

Erlang: Fine! You two stay here in your hole digging your "mysterious power source." Ugh, I am going to win the race, and when I get that peach, I'm not sharing!

As Erlang stormed off like a sulky teenager, Yaoji’s eyes returned to normal, but she seemed displeased with her son’s attitude.

Yaoji: Foolish child. If I were to race, I would crush him.

Yang Shu: It would be wrong of us to shatter our son's ambitions. That's far too cruel! Even for fallen celestials.

Then the two of them began to laugh wickedly.

---

Meanwhile, Wukong was fixing his bike, while Macaque watched him. He seemed excited for the race. He hadn’t raced since years ago when an accident forced him out, but back then—even at only fourteen—he’d left everyone eating dust on the track.

Macaque: This is huge! Those other racers won't stand a chance!

Wukong: Right? I know the track like the back of my hand! The back alleys, the front alleys, the sideway alleys. All the alleys! I was made for this!

Macaque: Yep! I'm totally gonna win this thing.

Wukong turned in surprise to his boyfriend.

Wukong: Wait, what? I thought you weren’t racing.

Macaque smiled innocently.

Macaque: Actually, I barely managed to convince Tong Bei, so I can race!

Wukong gave a bittersweet smile, setting his bike aside.

Wukong: You can take my bike if you want. I don’t have to join. It looked kind of boring anyway. Besides, you’ll definitely win.

Noticing the tone, Macaque frowned and grabbed his shoulder.

Macaque: Oh no no no. You’re racing too. I already have my own ride, and I don’t want my fun to ruin yours. You’ve been working on this for months! I’m sure you’ll win.

Wukong: But I—

Macaque: I’m only doing this to have fun and do something with you. Otherwise, racing isn’t really my thing… at least not anymore.

Though not fully convinced, Wukong nodded.

Wukong: Whatever you say.

As they talked, Xiangliu suddenly appeared holding a Wukong flag. The snakes stirred uncomfortably when he noticed their gaze.

Xiangliu: This is very uncomfortable.

Then the demon left.

Macaque: He’s doing that on purpose, isn’t he?

Wukong: One hundred percent.

Macaque huffed angrily.

Macaque: If I win, I’m shoving that peach right up his—

---

Finally, it was race time. All the racers and their vehicles made their final preparations.

Announcer: We're now just minutes away from the start of the race as the drivers make their final preparations!

Wukong turned back toward the commotion, only to spot Macaque coming up to the starting line with a smile. He was surprised to see him riding a courier bike.

Wukong: Oh, so you’re using the courier bike?

Macaque nodded.

Macaque: Don’t let the old look fool you. She’s fast. Back in the day, I left everyone in the dust with this baby. Right, Bella?

As the lovers chatted, a third voice cut in.

????: Yeah! And so are we!

The Spider Duo struck a dramatic pose.

Huntsman: Soldier of the Dragon! It's your worst enemies, Huntsman—

Syntax: —and Syntax!

Huntsman & Syntax: The Spider Demons!

But the two ignored them.

Wukong: You sure? We could swap bikes if you want.

Macaque: Don’t worry. Did you forget? I’ve got Dragon Soldier powers and I’m an ex-racer. I’ll be fine.

At that moment, Erlang arrived on the track in his flashy white car.

Erlang: Can you pathetic worms, be quiet?! I'm trying to get in the zone.

Suddenly, a massive dump truck appeared, sending everyone screaming and running. Even the announcers fled, leaving the Spider Demons to take over.

Syntax: Oh! It looks like we've got some last minute scratches as Yaoji and Yang Shu join the race.

Huntsman: Yeah, and, totally unrelated, we're the new commentators. And, to spice things up, we've gone ahead and altered the race track!

Macaque & Wukong: What?!

Syntax: That's right! Here's your start line. Here's your finish line. Get there any way you like.

Macaque grinned, but one eye twitched, and purple and green lightning sparked faintly around him.

Huntsman: On your marks!

Wukong: Hold on!

Huntsman: Get set!

Erlang: Wait, what?!

Huntsman & Syntax: Go!

Yang Shu floored the gas, overtaking the others, while Yaoji turned back to her son.

Yaoji: Sorry darling! We'll meet you at the finish line, hmm?

Laughing, she sped off, with Macaque following right after.

Macaque: Yeah. I'll... see you at the finish line!

As he laughed too, Erlang and then Wukong started driving as well.

Erlang: Get back here!

From above, the Spider announcers continued.

Syntax: And it's become immediately apparent that some drivers are better than others!

Wukong and Macaque squeezed side by side.

Wukong: Sorry, Mihou!

Macaque: Oh no, it’s fine!… I mean… every road, right, babe?

Syntax: Oh! That is a very sharp corner!

Meanwhile, Erlang caught up to his parents’ massive truck and laughed.

Erlang: My victory is assured! You're never going to make this turn!

As Erlang sped past, Yang Shu went berserk.

Yang Shu: I turn for no one but my wife!

Slamming the pedal, he drove straight into the mountain.

Yaoji: Shu, no! Not the mountain!

But they had already entered it.

Yaoji: Shit!

Huntsman: Ooh... They are literally driving through the mountain! It's a bold move.

Syntax: Very ambitious. So... I guess we'll catch up with them... On the other side of the mountain?

---

Macaque was at the front, Wukong behind him, and Erlang at the very end. The celestial was suddenly beginning to grow furious.

Erlang: Get out of my way, reptile!

Macaque: Never!

Wukong and Erlang sped around Macaque, passing him by.

Macaque: Hey! No fair! Here comes... Soldier of the Dragon!

Macaque only smirked, twisting his bike and throwing himself down one of the slopes. But then he remembered the accident…

The child had fallen to the ground with his bike, the machine shattering while Macaque rolled across the ground. Wukong and Erlang passed him on either side.

Macaque: I'm so stupid! "Ohh I've got Dragon Soldier powers. I think I'll be fine."

His whining stopped the moment he saw the blade.

Macaque: Oh wait! I'm the greatest racer ever!

He used the blade to launch himself into the sky.

Huntsman: And at this point, the only way Wukong's not going to win is if some sort of flying, undefeated idiot were to crash into him from above.

Wukong: Huh?

The golden monkey looked up—only to see his lover falling toward him. Both screamed.

Macaque: Argh! Look out!

When Macaque slammed into him, they both shrieked.

Huntsman: Yep. As I said, that's... just really, really unlucky.

Macaque crashed again, groaning in pain. Erlang drove his car in a circle around him.

Erlang: Victory is mine, losers!

The celestial laughed and sped away. Macaque clutched his head in pain as memories began to flood back.

Macaque: No!

When he saw Wukong staring at him in confusion, disappointment twisted into tension.

Wukong: Mihou! What did you do?!

When his ruined bike came into view, Wukong’s breath caught. Macaque immediately backed away.

Wukong: My bike!..

For a moment, Wukong remembered something someone had once told him at home about Macaque. His golden eyes flashed with anger as he stormed toward him.

Wukong: Argh! What is wrong with you?! I was already going to help you, I was trying to stop Erlang! Did you really have to smash my bike?!

Macaque couldn’t take it anymore and decided to tell the truth.

Macaque: Fine! I messed up! I just… I just wanted to win that race, and I guess I got carried away. It’s been so long! I just wanted to do it again!… To be more than just a courier, or someone’s soldier… A-and Xiangliu got under my skin—

He sighed in frustration, then glanced at his right leg—the one that had been broken in the last race and had barely healed.

Macaque: But I’ll never win. You’re the racer now, not me… I’m sorry.

Wukong thought for a moment, then sighed in defeat.

Wukong: Yeah, I know. It’s just…

He cupped his lover’s cheeks and kissed his forehead.

Wukong: Next time, don’t be stupid. Think about yourself, not the race. Okay?

Macaque smiled when he heard that.

Macaque: Deal!

Then, looking toward where Erlang had gone, he sighed in disappointment.

Macaque: I can’t believe that bastard’s going to win.

Wukong rubbed his chin thoughtfully.

Wukong: Um... You do have Dragon Soldier powers.

Macaque looked at his lover in confusion at first, then realized what he meant.

Macaque: Eh? Oh yeah! Here comes Soldier of the Dragon!

Using his blade, Macaque fused Wukong’s and his own broken vehicles into a new machine. They mounted it together and returned to the race. They were now riding one vehicle as a team.

Huntsman: Erlang has a commanding lead now.

Syntax: Well, with all the other drivers basically out of the race...

Meanwhile, up on the mountain, our couple:

Yaoji had seized the driver’s seat and was trying to claw her way out of the mountain like a rabid dog.

Yaoji: This mountain will crumble before our will!

Yang Shu: Oh sweetheart. You have had such bad experience with mountains.

Yaoji remembered the moment she’d been imprisoned in the mountain, then screamed and slammed her foot down on the pedal. But they still couldn’t get out.

Syntax: Yeah. It looks like Erlang is going to win.

Erlang laughed just before something shook his vehicle.

Erlang: Huh?

He looked back and saw the couple’s vehicle charging forward, the two screaming inside.

Syntax: Oh! Looks like Macaque and Wukong are back in the race!

Erlang: What!?

They slammed into the celestial, shattering his vehicle. Macaque used his blade to repair the car—but accidentally pulled Erlang inside with them.

Erlang’s fury sparked golden energy from his eyes, but the couple shoved him out of the car, leaving him unconscious against a corner.

The pair then crossed the finish line with their vehicle.

Syntax: It is all over!

Huntsman: Wukong and Macaque win!

The two lifted the trophy high. While the crowd cheered for them, Erlang stormed toward them with golden power blazing, scattering everyone else.

Erlang: Damn you, reptile! You unbearable wretch! That peach should have been mine!

Wukong protectively clutched the peach prize.

Wukong: Ha! You're never getting this fruit!!

He bit into it—only for his teeth to crack. He groaned in pain and fell from the podium.

Wukong: Ah... Ah. Ow. I don't think it's ripe yet.

Macaque: Umm, it's just a trophy! We don't really get a peach of immortality.

Erlang and Wukong stared in shock at the dragon child, then turned back to the poster.

Wukong: What? But... But... But the poster says—

Erlang: It says right there on the poster!

Macaque burst out laughing, clutching his stomach.

Macaque: It says you get immortality by having your picture projected on the great wall.

And so, the image of the trio was projected onto the Great Wall.

Wukong looked at it as if he understood, while Erlang looked traumatized.

Wukong: Oh. So... The peach is a metaphor? O... kay.

Erlang: I knew that! You think you're so...

He tried to storm off in a blaze of power, but came back just to glare at them one more time.

Erlang: Losers!

Then he finally left.

Wukong: Wait. But what about the real peaches. Where are they?

Macaque: I don’t know.

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

At the temple, Mei looked at the place where she had hidden the peaches.

The reason she still kept them there was in case a greater threat arose—then she could preserve her energy with them. She herself wasn’t the one who loved peaches; it was a certain friend whose name she didn’t want to mention.

As memories flooded her mind again, Mei frowned at the peach. But when one of the little dragons rubbed against her leg, she smiled, closed the storeroom, and lifted the creature into her arms. Then she turned to pick up the egg figurine that had once fallen from her mother’s hands.

But the figurine was no longer there. Instead, right in front of that little dragon stood another figurine—a silver dragon

Chapter Text

Macaque was training with Mei somewhere inside the temple. Mei was dodging the attacks of her successor, grinning as she did so. The dodging went on for a bit longer until Mei wrapped her tail around Macaque’s leg and hurled him into the temple. Then the dragon woman landed beside him and, spinning him like a blade, sat him down on the ground.

Mei: Better. Way, way better. You're totally getting the hang of this, Mihou!

Macaque looked at his mentor with shining eyes full of hope.

Macaque: Really?

Mei nodded approvingly, folding her arms.

Mei: I mean, it does make sense. You are getting trained by me. Now, we just gotta work on your focus.

Hearing that, Macaque immediately grew excited and jittery.

Macaque: Yeah, I am the best of focus— What do you mean, "work on my focus?!" I-I'm like No. 1 Focus Lizard!

Mei shoved the boy away slightly and gave him a side-eye.

Mei: Ugh, if anyone is No. 1 Focus lizard, it’s me.

Macaque: What?!

Macaque shouted in disbelief, then pulled a book from his pocket and began flipping through it. As he muttered, he knocked over Mei’s cardboard training dummy, while Mei, in the background, just smiled with a bag of kiwi and mango chips in hand.

Macaque: Literally, your whole legacy is about being impulsive and avoiding responsibilities! EVEN FROM YOUR FAMILY!

Mei: That's where you are wrong.

Macaque: The time that you ate all the Immortal Peaches that you were meant to guard?

Mei: Back then I had a jerk friend.

Macaque: When you kept annoying everyone at the Celestial Realm?

Mei: That's a matter of opinion.

Macaque: The time you pick a fight with-

Mei stuffed one of the snacks she was eating into the kid’s mouth. Macaque chewed it, turning to his mentor with exasperation.

Mei: See, that right there is the problem. You stressed too much about the negatives. Focus is taking in everything, but honing in only on the one thing that matters. Right now, I'm talking to you while also honing in the speed of the wind, the moisture in the air, these 37 emails for my lawyer, the first 18 seasons of Dragon Soldier: The Animated Series. The inner resonance of my soul that contemplate the fact that I am an immortal being, who will never be able to die. And that bug right over there. But...

Macaque waved at the bug. Mei picked the child up with one arm, stood, and gestured around as she continued.

Mei: I'm paying attention to you. Take in everything, choose what you want to do, and then do it. That is focus.

Macaque looked at his mentor with sparkling eyes—but in truth, he hadn’t understood a thing.

Macaque: That sounds... super confusing, and like you're just constantly distracted.

Mei raised her brows, gazing calmly at her successor.

Mei: Or maybe, you just can't handle real focus?

Feeling the jab, Macaque staggered dramatically, then furrowed his brows stubbornly. He was going to prove her wrong.

Macaque: I-I can totally focus. I focus all the time! In fact, the very next thing I do, is gonna be the most focused thing ever!

Suddenly, Macaque realized he was already inside the shop, where Tong Bei was spraying him with a fire extinguisher. In his hands was an even wetter but still-burning Dragon Soldier toy.

Tong Bei: Hey, uh, Liu'er. You mind explaining to me why I have two hundred orders of dumplings that haven't been delivered yet?!

Macaque nervously giggled, pointing at Xiangliu, who was still eating dumplings.

Macaque: I thought Xiangliu was gonna do it?

Xiangliu: Why the hell me—

Tong Bei sighed, his tone growing serious, which made Macaque tense up.

Tong Bei: Distraction. That's your greatest weakness, Liu'er. You need to follow through on the task at hand. Understand?

When he saw Macaque fiddling with his phone, Tong Bei smiled dangerously with irritation. He pulled out one of his hidden forks and hurled it at the phone in Macaque’s hand.

Tong Bei: That's it. I'm done. It's over. Pack your bags. You're outta here.

Macaque looked at him like a small child being abandoned by his family, then bowed before him.

Macaque: What?! Give me another chance. Please. I-I can do better!

Tong Bei’s phone rang. He answered the call.

Tong Bei: Uh-huh. Uh-huh. Of course. Right way.

He hung up and turned back to the boy with a smile.

Tong Bei: Fine. One more chance. But, if you slip up, even a little bit. Well, the Deliverybot 9000 is surprisingly affordable.

Macaque frowned at that, then steeled himself.

Macaque: No! I'm not gonna let you down, Tong Bei. I'm gonna have to focus, like I've never focused before.

As he prepared to leave the shop, the monkey cleared his throat to remind him of the dumplings. Macaque grabbed a bag of them and went out.

Tong Bei: He delivers dumplings literally every day. How is this suddenly...

Tong Bei sighed with both disappointment and worry.

---

Macaque was on his bike, riding to make the delivery.

Macaque: Okay, do just like Dragon Soldier said. Focus. Take everything in.

Then he began looking around.

Macaque: Lamp post. Street sign. The arcade where the Clone Fiasco happened and where, if I had been any later, my boyfriend would have died.

He stopped himself when he felt the burning sensation.

Macaque: Ahh, no! I have to focus. Focus!

When he heard someone shout “I win!”, he couldn’t help it—Macaque dashed into the arcade, searching for any threats. But when he realized he was distracted again, he stopped.

Macaque: No, no, no, no! I got distracted! Tong Bei is totally gonna fire me! That's it. No more distractions.

Just then, an employee tapped him.

Anti-Gravity Arcade Employee: Hey, uh, I saw a bug, but—

Macaque: No!

He slapped the tokens out of the worker’s hand.

Macaque: I got to go!

He ran out of the arcade.

Employee: Rude much?

The tokens clattered onto the employee’s head.

Back on his bike, Macaque kept apologizing.

Macaque: Sorry, sorry, sorry, sorry, sorry!

He started panicking as he rode. Why was his focus so terrible today? AND IF THAT BURNING AND DROWNING FEELING KEPT BOTHERING HIM— Suddenly Macaque thought of the orphanage director, with the thin ruler and short, sleek black hair, strict but beautiful.

Macaque: What the hell is happening?! I can't let Tong Bei down. I just need to concentrate. Just make up for lost time. I can do it. Nothing is gonna stop me.

Then, a ball smacked into his bike. Macaque caught it and turned toward the one who had thrown it—or rather, the ones.

There were children, looking at him innocently.

Child: Jeepers. Sorry, mister. Hey, you want to play? We need someone else so we could have a proper game.

Macaque smiled, holding the ball.

Macaque: Aw-w-w. Aw, I really wish I could, but-but if I do...

He imagined what would happen if he played soccer with the kids, got fired, and was replaced by Deliverybot 9000. He pictured the stupid robot taking his place. The ruler, the snake-shaped clock, the dark room—all the memories scared him. He dropped the ball.

Macaque: I have to make this delivery! You all just want to trick me into staying here forever! I'm not falling for it.

He hopped back onto his bike, laughing as he rode off. One of the kids picked up the ball, while the others revealed their true forms—demons.

Green Demon Child: How did you think he knew that we were going to imprison him forever?

Red Demon Child: Who knows.

Blue Demon Child: Oh, look. Here comes another one.

The green demon child got ready to throw the ball.

---

As Macaque rode, he screamed:

Macaque: No. No. Nooooo! No, no!

He stopped at a food stall.

Macaque: Uh, can I get a large—

Then sped back onto the delivery.

Macaque: Dang it! Ugh, come on, Macaque! You fought deadly demons! Survived active volcanos! Faced Tong Bei's wrath on a Monday! You could easily cover over 5,000 blocks in eleven minutes. I can do this!

He stopped at a sign pointing two ways. One was a normal path, the other led into a forest.

Macaque: I think we all know what the obvious choice here is.

He happily rode into the forest.

Macaque: I should be getting close.

He checked his phone and was disappointed.

Macaque: I’m so far away!

He stopped, arms crossed... Damn it...

Macaque: I'm never gonna be a master of focus! I'm not giving up. Just do what Dragon Soldier said. First, take everything in: Trees, yes. Random skeleton that I'm definitely gonna report to the police later? Yes. Spooky pathway that will inevitably lead to my doom, yep, check, noted. I might have taken too much in.

His phone buzzed with a call and he screamed.

Macaque: Tong Bei!

He answered, trying to hide his nerves.

Macaque: H-H-Hey, how're things with you? I'm definitely not lost in a terrifying forest.

Tong Bei: Hey, did you know

Macaque saw vines creeping toward him as Tong Bei continued cheerfully.

Tong Bei: Deliverybot 9000 can deliver over 9,000 deliveries a day? So you—

Macaque: Oh, is that so? That's very interesting!

The vines grabbed him as he screamed, cutting off the conversation.

Tong Bei: Liu’er, you okay?

Macaque: You're breaking up. Uh...

Static filled the line as the vines wrapped tighter.

Macaque: 'Kay, bye!

As he was engulfed by the vines, the trees spoke in the voices of Tong Bei, Mei, and the orphanage director.

“One more chance!”

“You can't handle real focus!"

"You have to do better!”

“Focus!”

“Focus!”

“Focus!”

Then Macaque suddenly remembered his mentor’s advice.

“Take in everything, choose what you want to do, and then do it."

Macaque closed his eyes and focused.

Macaque: I want to deliver these dumplings. I want to deliver these dumplings. I am going to deliver these dumplings!

As he truly focused, the illusion his subconscious had created vanished.

Finding himself in a peaceful forest, he let out a cheerful, victorious sigh.

Macaque: I did it! I did it! I shut everything out except the thing I needed to focus on. I also summoned monster trees with my stress so should I see a doctor? We'll worry about that later. I am a master of focus! Let's deliver some dumplings.

Macaque put in his earbuds and rode through Dragon Village.

Macaque: Focus! Focus, focus, focus!

Finally nearing his destination, he hopped off his bike and ran.

Macaque: Focus, focus, focus, focus, focus!

The customer was just about to knock when the door swung open and Macaque appeared.

Macaque: Tong Bei’s Dumplings!

As the door lifted, Mei smiled. Macaque was stunned when he realized the dumpling order belonged to his mentor, and his mind flooded with possibilities.

Mei: You finally made it.

Macaque: Dragon Soldier?! Wait. This was all a lesson to see if I could focus!

Macaque looked at his mentor hopefully, while Mei stared at her successor in confusion.

Mei: Uh... yes! I wanted to teach you a valuable lesson. I definitely didn't just order two helpings of dumplings to my shame temple.

Excited and proud, Macaque began to explain.

Macaque: You were right. I really was, honestly, terrible at focusing. But then...

As he rambled on, Mei took the order from his hands.

Mei: I'm just gonna take those off ya.

Macaque: I paid attention to everything, but I only focused on one thing: delivering... your... dumplings!

Macaque smiled proudly to himself, and Mei seemed proud of her successor too.

Mei: That's great, Mihou. I'm proud of ya. But... this isn't my order.

Macaque stared at his mentor in shock.

Macaque: What?

Chapter Text

In the place where the Yang Family was hiding, the Celestial Bots continued digging through the prison. When the bots heard a whisper, they noticed a white spirit.
A sudden explosion sent them flying backward, and the family approached the prison.

Yaoji tried to open it, but there was a seal on the prison.

That alone was enough to anger the Celestial Fairy.

Yaoji: Another infernal obstacle keeping me from my destiny!

As her husband tried to calm her down, their son seemed deep in thought.

Yang Shu: Patience, my love.

Yaoji: I've been patient long enough. I need that power!

Yang Shu placed his hand on the prison, but even with his strength, it would not open.

Yang Shu: The power that crafted this prison is beyond my skill. Without an artifact of equal strength, there is nothing we can do. We're locked out.

Then Erlang stepped forward with a smirk and activated Astral Projection.

Erlang: Not for long! All we need is a key and look what I found.

In the hologram, there was a serpent-shaped key, white and green in color.

---

(In this AU, the Mayor is MK — just transformed in appearance. Even Wukong doesn’t recognize him.)

Tong Bei’s team was watching the Mayor give a speech from a small podium.

Mayor (MK): Thank you for this amazing turnout.

Wukong, unlike his lover, was far too excited — he couldn’t even stay seated.

Wukong: Woo-hoo! Let's hear it for Soldier of the Dragon! Soldier of the city!

Mayor (MK): As mayor, I hereby give Soldier of the Dragon the key to our fair city.

Macaque accepted the serpent-shaped key. Its odd design confused him, so he turned to the Mayor.

Macaque: Um, uh, what does this key do, exactly?

Mayor (MK): Oh, you'll love this. It has the power to open anything!

Wukong, thrilled, ran over.

Wukong: Oooooh, anything? Like a pet shop full of baby monkeys?

Mayor (MK): Yes. Or the door to a lion's cage, or an orphan's piggy bank, an imprisoned mystic power source. Whatever you like! Today, you can do no wrong. You've got my permission. 'Cause I'm the mayor!

The Mayor laughed maniacally and vanished in a swirl of golden smoke.

Macaque reached for his blade, but Wukong stopped him.

Wukong: Huh. I'm starting to think, that's maybe not the mayor.

Macaque ignored the comment, staring down at the serpent-shaped key.

Macaque: Wow… A key that can open anything.

The two exchanged grins — mischievous and knowing — before heading out.

---

They first went to the arcade to play some games, but both lost.
Then Macaque noticed a serpent-shaped keyhole on the screen. Excited, he inserted the key — its tip transformed into a card, and suddenly they were winning every round.

Later, they found a truck with a picture of a monkey painted on it.
They unlocked the door — and dozens of monkeys jumped out, chattering and bouncing around.

They went on like this, opening doors everywhere and having the time of their lives.

Then suddenly, an idea struck Macaque. He held the key to his ear — and saw a figure cloaked in red, face covered, staring back at him.
The figure’s body was drenched in blood — even golden blood. Just as it lunged at him, Macaque snapped back to reality.

Macaque: Wukong! Wukong! Okay, hear me out. We knew the key could magically unlock anything. But maybe, it can also magically lock anything too!

Wukong, puzzled, looked between him and the key.

Wukong: You literally just described all keys.

Macaque: Sure, yeah, fine. But do you know what this means? Having this key, this power. It's so much responsibility. But I know what we need to do.

The two smirked at each other — clearly thinking the exact same thing.

---

Tong Bei arrived at his shop carrying supplies. He pulled out his key and tried to open the door — but it wouldn’t budge.
He tried again, harder this time — nothing.

Tong Bei: What the?

He gave the door one final kick — no luck.

Tong Bei: Ow! My back!

He ran to the back door and began pounding and kicking.

Tong Bei: Please! Let me in! Let me into my dumpling shop!

Up on the balcony, the duo were watching and laughing.

Macaque: I wish we had this key all the time. I don't think I've had this much fun in forever.

Then suddenly, a burst of golden energy erupted in front of Macaque’s house, blowing a hole through the ground. The two fell, and the key landed beside Wukong. Out of the smoke, Erlang appeared.

Erlang: Reptile boy! Finally!

Wukong frowned darkly.

Wukong: What are you doing in Mihou’s house?

Macaque: You better not have touched my stuff!

Erlang: Do you know how long I've been waiting here for you? Your house is… depressing. I almost feel bad taking things from you, buuut I'm going to need that magic key.

Erlang used his powers to snatch the key. The two panicked and tried to grab it back, but it was too late.

Erlang: Yoink! So long, reptile!

He jumped into a car parked in a nearby alley and sped away.

Macaque: Oh no, the key!

Wukong immediately leapt onto his cloud and chased after him. Macaque tried to stop him, but it was useless.

Macaque: Wait for me! No, Wukong it's all good. I definitely don't want a ride. It's totally fine.

He drew his blade, stabbed it into the ground, and summoned his avatar, soaring after them.

---

Erlang was laughing maniacally, smashing into cars as he went.
Glancing in the rearview mirror, he saw Wukong coming straight for him. Wukong drew his staff and attacked, while the Celestial god leaned out the window, his eyes glowing with divine fury.

Erlang: Can’t you and your loser boyfriend just let me plot in peace just one time?!

Wukong scowled.

Wukong: Everyone knows your golden energy’s fake.

Erlang: What—?

---

Man: I know it's been a short time, but darling. Nothing could stand in the way of our love.

He suddenly noticed a green dragon in the reflection of the sword and froze.

Man: Except for a giant dragon heading our way!

When Macaque suddenly appeared, everyone screamed.
His blade (guided by his avatar) struck the ground and rose again, and he shouted down an apology.

Macaque: Sorry!

Man: It's okay. As long nobody got hurt-

But the couple had already started to burn.

---

Erlang: Stop wriggling!

The chase continued, and Wukong was already getting bored.

Wukong: Does it get boring? Us beating you all the time? You know we're going to get that key back, right?

Annoyed, Erlang pressed several buttons. The car split — the bottom half turning into a motorcycle, the top half flying backward.
Wukong leapt from his cloud, sliced the upper half in two with his staff, and landed on the ground as Erlang smirked.

Erlang: So long, Stone Monkey Boy! Here’s a tip, next time pick the winning side and—

Before he could finish, a dragon avatar burst from above, ramming his vehicle and sending him flying.
The key fell from his pocket, and Macaque caught it, twirling it in his hand as Wukong appeared beside him. The dragon avatar vanished.

Macaque: So, looks like you reach the end of the line, Erlang. What are you even going to do with this anyway?

Then, on the rooftop, Yang Shu appeared — Erlang turned to his father with joy.

Yang Shu: Why spoil the surprise? Now hand the key over and quick wasting my time.

The pair exchanged glances — then attacked.
But Yang Shu blocked both their strikes with his scythe.

Wukong leapt at the wall for a surprise attack, but Yang Shu sidestepped, sending both of them crashing into the wall.
The key flew from Macaque’s hand, and Erlang eagerly grabbed it.

Erlang: Thanks for the key, losers!

Yang Shu sighed, facepalming, as the two vanished in a golden cyclone.

Wukong: Did they get away with the key?

Macaque: Yeah. But what I can't figure is... why?

Wukong: A A key that can open any door is incredibly dangerous. We have to keep our guard up. Especially I’ve got a strange, familiar feeling about that key.

Macaque: Me too…

---

In the foundry, Yaoji arrived with the key and used it to unlock the seal on the prison.
Erlang eagerly rushed inside — but there was nothing.

Erlang: Nothingness? That’s it?

Then a white energy crawled up his leg, and he tried to shake it off.

As Yaoji allowed the white energy to flow into her, forming armor, she began to laugh — a dark, echoing laugh.
Erlang and Yang Shu grinned as the pieces of the prison floated into the air.

From within, a deep voice rumbled:

“FREEDOM…”

Chapter Text

Macaque was angrily striking the temple walls with his sword, muttering under his breath as he went. Mei watched from behind. The wall he was breaking happened to be the mural of the Journey to the East team.

Macaque: You know, when I found out I was going to be trained by Dragon Soldier, the Host of the Samadhi Fire, the Only Flame Heaven Fears, I didn’t expect to spend twelve hours a day smashing walls with a “holy blade”!

He threw the blade aside and started jumping up and down in frustration.

Macaque: Why am I doing this again?!

Mei, still smiling proudly, began to speak.

Mei: Oh, so I can make a nice little breakfast nook. Get some light up in here.

Macaque: But I'm meant to be Soldier of the Dragon. Not the Soldier of Construction. How am I supposed to do the warrior stuff if I don't know the fighting stuff?

Mei twirled her blade and gave him a sly grin, her emerald-green eyes glinting mischievously.

Mei: Oh? So you want to know the "fighting stuff," huh?  Like this?

Her eyes flared bright green. Then she swung her sword, releasing a surge of energy. Macaque barely dodged as the sword hit the wall, completely demolishing it.

Macaque: Huh? Whoa…

He stared in awe at the hole, then dropped to his knees before his mentor, eyes sparkling.

Macaque: Yes, exactly like that. I am ready for some awesome.

Mei chuckled teasingly, spun her sword, and turned her back on her student.

Mei: Look, Mihou. You can't rush this stuff. You'll get there. You just need practice.

Macaque: But this isn't practice!

Mei sighed, rubbed her forehead, and turned back to him.

Mei: I'm never going to teach you something you don't need to know, okay?

Macaque groaned, looking down in disappointment. Mei sighed too, then smiled softly and stepped back.

Mei: Okay. Now, this priceless, ancient mural is not going to destroy itself. So remember: Step into the strike.

Just then, Macaque’s phone rang. He answered — his boyfriend appeared on the screen, looking worried.

Wukong: Mihou, we really need your help.

Wukong showed him a massive golden kaiju. Macaque grinned excitedly.

Macaque: A monster attacking the city? That's terrible~  Darn it~

After the call ended, he turned to Mei.

Macaque: Guess I got to go do some boring warrior stuff instead of this. Okay, bye.

He darted out of the temple, leaving Mei sighing tiredly.

---

Macaque sped back to Megapolis and skidded his board to a stop beside his boyfriend.

Macaque: What did I miss?

Wukong turned to him, frowning.

Wukong: Mihou, what took you so long?

Macaque: Sorry, sorry, Dragon Soldier was making me do boring stuff. That the bad guy?

A golden kaiju loomed above them ominously.

Macaque: Okay. Be right back. Here comes --

Wukong tried to stop him.

Wukong: No, wait!

Macaque: The Soldier of the—!

The kaiju’s tail slammed into Macaque, sending him flying. Wukong rubbed his neck awkwardly.

Wukong: Oh, yeah… we tried that.

Nearby, Chi Jiao and Tong Bei were resting, looking defeated. Macaque stood back up—just as something dark swooped overhead.

Wukong: İs that…

Macaque: The Dragon Soldier?

A young man landed atop a nearby building. He was a brown-haired monkey with a red bandana, a dark tail, and visible ears. A faint orange mark rested above his golden eyes. He wore a white tangzhuang with golden trim and cloud patterns, a turquoise sash, red pants, and black shoes. His right arm shimmered with golden markings—it didn’t look quite real.

He wielded a staff like Wukong’s and fought the kaiju effortlessly. When the monster vanished in smoke, Macaque climbed up the building, amazed. How did he do that in five seconds—

Macaque: Hey! Dragon Soldier!

But the young man slipped and fell. The moment he landed, Macaque appeared right in front of him.

Macaque: I could’ve handled that! You know that, right?!

Then Macaque paused, realizing this wasn’t his mentor. And… why did this guy have a stone arm?

Macaque: Oh, weird… you’re not the Dragon Soldier…

The man chuckled and crouched down to Macaque’s level.

???: I get that a lot. The Soldier of the Dragon, huh?

Macaque gripped his sword tighter.

Macaque: How did you—

The man laughed and gestured to the blade.

???: Your blade kind of gives you away, dude. Not just anyone can wield that thing. Besides, my son’s told me all about you.

Macaque blinked in confusion, looking from the sword to the man.

Macaque: Uh… sorry, who are you? And what do you mean, your son?

The man stood proudly, folding his arms with a grin.

MK: Xiaotatian. Actually, the "Qi Xiaotatian" is, you know, my full name. Well, see you around,  Macaque.

Macaque had no intention of letting the father of his boyfriend just walk away. He teleported in front of him again—just like the Dragon Soldier would’ve done! Right?

Macaque: I’ve been waiting a long time to meet you! Wukong always called you a jerk, but you’re like, the eighth coolest person I’ve ever met! And can you teach me that awesome thing?

MK looked mildly surprised—but also amused.

MK: Uh, don't you already have a Master? I thought Dragon Soldier was training you.

Macaque: Ah, yeah, yeah, no, she-she is.

MK: But you keep falling behind, huh? I’m sure the Dragon Soldier would want you to catch up. She’d want you to grow stronger.

Macaque hesitated. His words were heavy… but true. He did want to be stronger. Mei would be proud.

And besides—this was Wukong’s dad. He had to keep an eye on him.

Macaque: Um, yeah. Yes. She totally would be cool with it.

MK: Great. Let’s get started, then.

As he walked away, MK touched Macaque’s head lightly. His eyes flashed gold for a moment, then dimmed.

---

During training, MK repeatedly overpowered Macaque, tossing him aside and pointing his staff at the boy’s head.

MK: Not bad. Don't get me wrong, but I was kind of expecting a little more from someone with your power.

Macaque: Hey, hey, I've got more. I can give way more than that. I can do better.

MK grinned darkly—the plan was working perfectly.

MK: Sure. But can you be perfect? Can you be like her?

As they trained, MK’s words echoed.

MK: Stop holding back. Stop trying to be nice. Your first strike should be your last strike. Every time you attack, give it everything you've got. Other people are going to tell you to be patient.

A flash—Macaque striking the wall again, glaring at his teacher. That spark of joy—gone.

Mei (in his memory): Patience and focus. Step into the strike.

MK: They are slowing you down. You have power inside you. Use it. Take the power and destroy. Remember. You don't use a weapon. You are a weapon. You were born that way.

Macaque’s sword flared green, blasting through the wall with golden and emerald flames. Mei’s dumpling fell out of her mouth.

Mei: Whoa… How'd you learn to do that?

Then her face darkened. She stepped in front of him.

Mei: Have you been running around with other mentors?

Macaque turned toward her—his face cold, emotionless… yet smiling.

Macaque: Patience and focus. Isn't that what you said? 

Mei froze. The joke was gone.

Mei: Look, Mihou. Using that much power, your body can't handle it. You’ll fall apart—first your mind, then your heart, then your body!

But he didn’t listen. He stepped close, eyes blazing gold.

Macaque: You’re just jealous someone else can make me better than you ever could!

He stormed off, leaving Mei frowning in dread. Someone was going to die… again.

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

MK and Macaque were in the training room. Sweat trickled down Macaque’s forehead as he leaned against his blade, exhausted. MK grinned, placing a hand on his shoulder.

MK: You’re ready.

Macaque blinked in confusion, unsure what his second mentor meant.

Macaque: …Ready for what?

MK: I found out where it lives.

They climbed a hill near the temple, but Macaque looked completely worn out, using his sword just to stay upright.

MK: The Golden Kaiju is actually an ancient demon. A very, very powerful one. We need to destroy it once and for all. Come on.

MK pushed the boy forward, catching him off guard. Macaque barely stopped himself from falling by planting his blade into the ground.

Macaque: Wait, what?! Last time, I couldn’t even fucking hit it!

MK: Totally. But since then, you've had me teaching you. You're stronger now. Don’t you feel stronger? Besides, Mei could probably kill that thing with one punch.

Macaque looked away uneasily.

Macaque: I guess…

MK placed a firm hand on his shoulder.

MK: Remember. You're the weapon. You were born that way. Give it everything you’ve got.

He spun the boy around and pushed him forward. Macaque turned his blade, determination flickering in his eyes.

Macaque: Here comes… Soldier of the Dragon!

He charged, wielding the Dragon Blade, while MK grinned wickedly behind him.

Macaque: I am the weapon!

But as he struck, the Kaiju shifted — turning into MK, missing his right arm. Before Macaque could even curse, a second MK appeared and punched him hard in the stomach. Green flames burst from within him as he collapsed to the ground.

The first MK landed softly beside him, ruffling his hair.

MK: You know, you really are a good kid. Super nice.

The second MK turned into golden energy and merged into the original, causing his Kaiju form to appear behind him. Now empowered by both his own and the boy’s strength, MK took out a stone, crushed it, and absorbed Macaque’s power.

The blade flew toward Macaque, pinning him against the mountain. His chest burned as he struggled under the pressure. Every attempt to reach for the blade made it flare with fire, threatening him.

MK: Thank you, for giving me all of Dragon Soldier's power. Huh? Oh, no. Can't you hold the magic blade anymore? Well, you know what that means. There really isn't anything special about you.

MK grabbed the blade and pressed it down harder. Macaque screamed in pain.

MK: You’re just a stupid, dreamy kid with a burning blade.

Suddenly Mei’s voice echoed across the mountain.

Mei: Enough!

But MK only let go of the sword after stabbing it through Macaque’s hand.

Mei descended, pulling MK away from her student. She struck a proud hero pose, and Macaque smiled faintly — though it was hard to show joy while crushed under stones and impaled by a burning sword.

Macaque: Dragon Soldier!

Mei shot her successor a deadly glare while MK rolled his eyes.

MK: Dragon Soldier! It's good to see you, bud! How’s the wife?

MK smirked mockingly. Mei turned to face her old friend with a hostile expression, one of MK’s eyes twitching violently.

Mei: Are you ever going to get sick of living on my back? It's time to give back what you stole.

MK: You are such a gem. It's going to be so satisfying, killing you with your own powers.

The two charged at each other. MK fought with his clones; Mei countered with her own powers. When Mei was about to land a punch to his eye, MK suddenly morphed into Macaque — trembling, tearful, terrified.

His golden eyes flared. Then, in Macaque’s form, he ruthlessly punched Mei, sending her flying into three mountains.

As Dragon Soldier tried to recover, MK’s clones emerged from the walls, restraining her tightly.

MK: Seriously?! You fell for that?!

He turned to the boy still struggling to free himself.

MK: Sorry, kid. Nothing personal!

MK grinned darkly, summoning his Kaiju once again, ready to end it. Macaque screamed in fear, fighting to resist — the sound froze Mei’s blood.

Mei: MIHOU!

Mei broke free in a burst of green fire and dashed to stop him.

Just as MK was about to strike the boy, Mei arrived in time to block his blow.

MK: Come on! Show me the real Long Xianjio! The old you would have leveled this whole mountain range to stop me, but you're scared of hurting some kid? Pathetic!

Macaque kept struggling to free himself from the sword, to no avail. Mei saw it all again — the screams, the blood.

Macaque: Come on, blade… I can’t... I’m not strong enough.

As Mei strained to hold MK back, she called out to her successor:

Mei: Mihou. We're definitely going to have words later. But it's time for the soldier stuff!

Macaque turned to his mentor. Regaining his composure, he focused, channeling his energy to lift the Dragon Sword. The stones loosened their grip as the sword burned even hotter. Gritting his teeth, Macaque grabbed the hilt firmly.

Macaque & Mei: Be Patience. Focus. Step into the strike.

Macaque unleashed the green flames within the sword toward MK and the Kaiju, detonating them. Golden energy and emerald fire filled the air as Mei rushed in and held her student tightly.

---

Later, Macaque and Mei sat together at the temple.

Mei: You did it, Mihou. You remembered what I told you.

Macaque: I’m sorry.

Hearing the boy’s sad apology, Mei felt a pang of guilt, though she still tried to scold him.

Mei: Oh, oh, you totally should be. I can't believe you two-timed me on your training.

Macaque stared down at his sword, guilt washing over him. Mei’s heart ached unnecessarily at the sight.

Macaque: I just wanted to be perfect… like you.

Surprised and a bit regretful, Mei rubbed the back of her neck, then sat beside him and pulled him into a one-armed hug.

Mei: Hey, your heart’s in the right place, Mihou. We can work on the rest.

Macaque: I… should probably head back to the shop.

As he stood to leave, Mei grabbed his shoulder.

Mei: Going somewhere, buddy? I’ve got something special in mind for your next training.

Macaque’s eyes lit up with excitement — and something else.

---

Later, Macaque and Mei were doing household chores together.

Macaque: This is totally going to be one of those "do the boring, hard chore thing", but secretly, it's "learn the awesome kung fu secret", right?

Mei giggled, nodding as she continued helping him.

Mei: Uh, sure!

Chapter Text

Macaque returned to Megapolis while listening to music, with the Celestial Bots on his tail.
He had no idea of the danger approaching as he rode his motorcycle toward the shop—after all, he was listening to TWICE through his earbuds. :3

Macaque: “I will get ya, get ya, get ya, babe!”

When he stopped in front of the shop, he took off his earbuds.

Macaque: Hey, yo! Guess who's back from his training with Dragon Sol-

But then he noticed the bots staring blankly at him.

That was… unnerving.

When one of them suddenly made a move, Macaque screamed in fright—but right then, Tong Bei’s Food Truck crashed into the bots. Seeing his friends inside the truck, dressed in dystopian outfits, Macaque’s fear turned into excitement.

Macaque: Guys! Whoa! You look so awesome! Can I wear one too?

But the others didn’t share his enthusiasm.

Wukong: Yeah, so, uh, some stuff happened when you were away. Got kind of intense.

Macaque didn’t seem to fully grasp what he meant.

Macaque: B-But I left you with one of my boys!

Xiangliu looked mockingly at the blue fire clone sitting beside him.

Xiangliu: Oh, he's been super useful.

The backup clone just shrugged.

Backup Clone: I don’t know what to tell you, guy.

Then, the clone suddenly exploded in a burst of blue flame. Macaque put out a tiny spark on his hair.

Macaque: So… what happened?

Wukong: Well, after you left—

Xiangliu cleared his throat, interrupting.

Xiangliu: If you’ll allow me?

Wukong groaned irritably while the snake demon grinned triumphantly and began narrating dramatically.

Xiangliu: Well, after you left, the Celestial Bots attacked. But they were different, more powerful before. We believe it's all tied back to the Yaoji herself. Liu'er, she's conquered everything.

Macaque frowned seriously and drew his sword.

Macaque: Where is she? Where’s Yaoji?

The red monkey nervously hugged his own arm.

Chi Jiao: We're not sure. But, there's pretty scary noises coming from the mountain.

As everyone looked toward the mountain in fear, Macaque furrowed his brows with determination, then jumped onto the truck. The team drove toward it.

---

Yaoji laughed with satisfaction and joy as she watched the suffering people of the city. Her eyes glowed a blank white. On her back was a capsule filled with white energy.

Yaoji: Look how they cower and run. With this power, even the Great Soldier cannot stop me.

As she continued laughing calmly, Erlang joined in.

Erlang: Yes, Mother. We have finally taken our rightful place as the rulers of the city.

But their moment of triumph was cut short when a notification appeared. The family watched a video showing Macaque and his team heading toward the Golden Foundry.

Yaoji froze when she mentally connected Macaque’s image to the Dragon Soldier. Rage filled her eyes, and the whisper didn’t help.

Whisper: “Is that her? The Dragon Soldier.”

Yaoji: “Dragon Soldier!? Come to take me, bind me? I will not let that wretched dragon triumph again!

She screamed in fury while Yang Shu, behind her, frowned with concern.

---

Macaque and the others reached the Golden Foundry. They were all crammed tightly in the food truck.

Chi Jiao: “All right, what’s the plan?”

Macaque: Uh... I dunno. I just gonna... wing it?

Despite his uncertain tone, the others seemed convinced.

Wukong: Yeah!

Chi Jiao: Sounds great. Let’s go!

Macaque panicked.

Macaque: What? No, I didn't mean you guys too.

Xiangliu: You thought you were going without us?

Tong Bei: Liu’er, we get it. You're the Soldier of the Dragon, eh? It's your job to go fight the bad guys.

Chi Jiao: But we're your team, little man. It's our job to get you there.

Wukong: No matter what.

Macaque looked at his friends, smiled, and finally gave in.

They set off again—but the Celestial Bots were now chasing them in a massive Celestial Tank.

Xiangliu: Look, there! Yaoji's throne room. It's gotta be down there!

Then he saw the tank closing in from behind. It rammed the food truck, but Chi Jiao managed to jump out with the two monkeys in time.

As Chi Jiao destroyed the tank, the two monkeys headed toward the throne room.

Wukong: Come on, Mihou! Leggo!

They fell into the foundry, but Wukong used his staff to pin into the wall, stopping their fall.

Macaque: Now what?

Wukong tried to use his powers, but nothing happened. Something was blocking him.

Wukong: …Oh no.

---

Whisper: “They’re coming for you.”

The whisper still tormented the Celestial Fairy, while Erlang tried to help his mother.

Erlang: Mother, let me go up there and destroy those-

But when his mother’s wicked laugh filled the room, he froze.

Yaoji: You? Why would I trust you?! You have brought me nothing but failure! Time and time again, nothing but disappointment!

Erlang’s lips trembled as his fists clenched.

Whisper: Traitor… He’s a traitor.

Yaoji: Traitor? Yes. Perhaps.

Erlang gasped.

Erlang: N-no! Mother!

But Yaoji was too lost in the whisper’s madness to hear him.

Yaoji: You thought you could deceive me?! Stand against me!?

She swung at her son, but Yang Shu’s scythe formed a shield between them.

Yang Shu: Come to your senses. This power had poisoned your mind!

Yaoji: Another traitor in my midst!

Yang Shu sighed and frowned.

Yang Shu: I do not... want to hurt you.

Yaoji: As if you could.

They clashed—Yaoji’s attacks fierce and unrelenting.

---

Meanwhile, Wukong and Macaque still hung from the wall, terrified.

Wukong: So. About getting down, if your boyfriend jumped off a cliff, would you do the same, he-heh?

Then they noticed movement above them.

Macaque: Uh… Wukong?

Wukong: Huh?

They looked up and saw Celestial Bots crawling toward them.

Macaque: What are we gonna do?

Just then, Wukong’s phone rang—alerting the bots. He pulled it out, but dropped it.

Wukong: No!

He let go of his staff to grab it.

Macaque: ARE YOU SERIOUS?!

Macaque grabbed the staff and held Wukong by the tail. Wukong managed to catch his phone—only to see a message.

Wukong: Seriously?! A phone update now?!

Macaque: Wukong!

Wukong: Yeah! Nows a great time to download the latest version of Dragon Avatar-

They both froze, eyes lighting up.

Both: Dragon Avatar! Here comes the Soldier of the Dragon!

Macaque threw Wukong upward. Wukong grabbed him and threw him higher. Macaque stabbed his blade into the wall—green cracks spread and broke apart, forming armor for the Dragon Avatar.

Bots immediately attacked the Avatar.

Both: Let’s do this!

But Macaque pointed at Wukong.

Macaque: No, you hold off the zombie Celestial Bots. I’ll get down and finish this.

Wukong: I’ve always dreamed of ride a giant green dragon!

Macaque: Actually, the dragon kinda has a mind of its own—

But before he could finish, Wukong touched the dragon—and it spat Macaque out.

Macaque: WUKONG!!!

Wukong: SORRY, MIHOU!!!

Then Wukong turned to the bots and grinned.

Wukong: Yeah, bring it on!

---

Yaoji and Yang Shu’s battle raged on.

Yaoji mercilessly struck him, but he kept standing. The force of their fight flung Erlang near his father.

As Yang Shu wiped the dirt off his face, Yaoji walked toward them menacingly—until something crashed behind them.

Erlang: The reptile?

Yaoji: Little thief.

Macaque groaned in pain and flopped back down.

Macaque: Woah, give me a minute.

Yaoji’s eyes flickered between black and white as she fought the corruption inside her.

When Macaque finally stood, he stretched his joints.

Macaque: Okay. Think I’m ready to fight now. Let’s go.

But when Yaoji saw him, she didn’t see Macaque—she saw Mei.

Yaoji: LONG XIANJIAO! Come to lock me away again? I’ll crush you where you stand!

Macaque: Huh?

As he grabbed his sword, the ground shook. Yaoji charged at him. He dodged her attacks, and Yang Shu joined in.

Erlang: Father, what are you—

Yang Shu hurled his scythe at Yaoji—it hit and knocked over equipment behind her.

Yang Shu: The canisters. The power inside has driven her mad.

Using Flame Vision, Macaque saw a white substance inside the crates.

Yang Shu: We need to destroy them.

But the whisper wouldn’t stop—constantly urging Yaoji to “fix things,” destroying her sanity.

Macaque: Okay... Time for round two.

Before he could attack, Erlang stopped him.

Erlang: No, this time we fight with you.

He gathered golden energy and launched an attack.

Yang Shu: You’ll have one shot, so make it count.

They attacked in unison—Erlang’s golden punch shaking the ground while Yang Shu summoned a storm of scythe energy.

Yaoji: You will all face the true order!

With overwhelming power, she blasted them both to the ground.

As she advanced, Macaque threw a rock at her head.

Macaque: Yeah! I got more rocks where that one came from!

She pinned him between her weapon and a boulder, pressing the blade to his neck.

Yaoji: You have been an utter disappointment. I had hoped you would have learned more of the Great Soldier’s little tricks.

Macaque: I don’t know what to tell you, lady.

She snarled and swung—decapitating him.

But his head burst into blue flame—just a clone.

Yaoji: What?! A copy?!

Then dozens of rainbow fire Macaques appeared above her.

Macaque: TASTE THE RAINBOW, MOTHERFUCKER—!

All the Macaques charged, knocking the capsules off her back. The containers shattered, releasing a bright white light.

“I’m free… I’m free…”

The white essence flowed out of every Celestial Bot, gathering together.

Yaoji fell to her knees. The ground shook.

Macaque barely avoided falling debris.

Yang Shu and Erlang watched in sadness and concern. Erlang took a step toward his mother, but his father stopped him.

Yaoji breathed heavily—her eyes no longer white.

Yaoji: What? What happened?..

Yang Shu approached her, trembling with emotion.

Erlang: F-father…

Yang Shu lifted her head gently. She looked at him with glowing, sorrowful eyes. He smiled and pressed his forehead to hers.

Yang Shu: You came back to me.

Erlang smiled—until he noticed the empty crates. The white energy was gone.

As Yaoji surrounded herself and her husband in glowing energy, Erlang frowned but joined them. Together, they vanished in a whirlwind.

Only Macaque remained.

Macaque: You can’t just- ugh! Again? Really?

He dodged a falling rock, but when he looked up, he saw the Dragon Avatar holding a massive boulder above him.

Macaque: “Wukong!!!”

Wukong: Let’s get outta here, my crazy dear.

---

The team sat on top of the sleeping Dragon Avatar, eating dumplings as they watched the sunset.

Tong Bei: Whelp, you did it, Liu’er!

Chi Jiao: You beat Yaoji! Again!

But Macaque didn’t look too cheerful.

Macaque: You know, I’m not sure I did. Whatever was powering her up, it made her... different.

Wukong kissed his cheek, making him smile.

Wukong: But we won, right?

Xiangliu: I'm sure it's fine.

He reached for Tong Bei’s dumpling.

Xiangliu: You were done with this, hmmm?

Tong Bei pulled his plate away protectively.

Tong Bei: Hey! Get your mitts off my food, Xiangliu!

---

The white essence wandered through the streets, twisting and searching for a vessel.
When it reached an empty alley, it stopped—then erupted in a blinding flash of light.

When it cleared, it was no longer an essence.

The goddess had returned, but not in her true form.

Her hair was short and straight, her eyes emerald green, and she wore an ordinary work outfit.
She looked completely normal.

??: “It’s good to have you back among us, my lady.”

The goddess looked up at her creation—eyes of brown and gold—and smiled. The two giggled together as a cat nearby turned to stone.

Chapter Text

It was the New Year.

This New Year, Mei and Macaque were sparring in the training field.

Macaque: You call this a training session? I've barely broken a sweat.

Mei: A battle's no place to be arrogant, you gotta stay humble.

Macaque: That’s what you usually do, yes.

As they resumed their fight, Macaque managed to drive his mentor toward a cliff.

Macaque: Hah! Who's gotta be humble now?

Just as he was about to strike, the Dragon Soldier grinned.

Mei: Hmm. Still you.

Mei flipped over Macaque, throwing him straight into the air. Her sword hit the mountain, shattering the rocks around him.

Macaque: Oh, fuck.

Rocks collapsed on top of the boy. Mei gracefully descended beside him.

Mei: Ok, class commencing, how'd I win?

She used her tail to pull Macaque out from under the pile of stones.

Macaque: Uh, you buried me under a rock slide?

Mei: Yes, but why were you standing in the way of a rock slide?

Macaque: 'Cause you put me there!

Mei ruffled the boy’s jet-black hair, trying to calm him.

Mei: No, no, no, no, no, no. I got you where I wanted you by putting myself where you wanted me, it's called misdirection.

Macaque: Seems like a shady lesson.

Mei crossed her arms, unimpressed.

Mei: Too soon, Mihou.

Macaque sighed and flopped dramatically onto the ground.

Macaque: Ugh, I'm never gonna be as good as you.

Mei chuckled and leaned closer to her successor.

Mei: Not with that attitude. Class dismissed!

Macaque instantly jumped up in excitement.

Macaque: Yes! I better hit it, I was supposed to meet Wukong and the others for the fes—

Before he could finish, Mei threw a pillow at the mortal boy, who was getting ready for the New Year. Using both fire and water, she began decorating the entire area with ease.

Macaque: Hey! Whoa. How long have you been preparing this?

Mei sat down cheerfully and pointed to the sky with a smile.

Mei: Come on, it's New Year's, Mihou. Let's watch the fireworks.

Macaque rubbed the back of his neck, hesitant. He had promised them…

Macaque: Oh, love to but I really should get back to my... friends.

Mei simply smiled and turned her gaze back to the sky. She had spent years spending New Year’s alone. Why should she care now?

Macaque stared for a moment, confused, but then sighed and smiled, sitting down beside her.

Macaque: Sure.

---

Meanwhile, in Megapolis, the people were celebrating the New Year.
Wukong was helping Tong Bei knead dumpling dough. Though he seemed cheerful, there was a trace of sadness—and maybe frustration—on his face.

Wukong: Well, at least this doesn’t require too many fingers. I guess that’s a win.

He beat the dough enthusiastically, forcing a grin, while Tong Bei nervously handed a plate of dumplings to a customer.

Tong Bei: Thank you! Great happiness and prosperity this Lunar New Year!

Xiangliu glanced at Wukong with mild concern.

Xiangliu: Wukong, is it just me or does Bei seem more.. stressed than normal? Isn't Liu'er meant to be working today?

Tong Bei finally snapped.

Tong Bei: YES XİANGLİU HE IS!!! WHERE IS THAT PUNK CAUSE HE SURE AIN'T HERE!!!

Wukong smiled innocently.

Wukong: He's training with the Dragon Soldier. He said, "New year! New Macaque! I'm gonna take my training to a whole new level!"

Wukong swung a broom dramatically like a staff—but gripped it so tightly that it snapped in two.

Xiangliu: Wow.

Tong Bei: Give me that!

He snatched the broken broom and threw it away before returning to the dumplings.

Tong Bei: "New year, new Macaque." Keep going like this, he's gonna be newly unemployed! I mean it! If Liu'er don't get here soon—

Suddenly, the monkey screamed as Chi Jiao burst in carrying heaps of gifts and dumped them all on him.

Chi Jiao: Good cheer and happy new year! Look at all these delicious little goodies! I got enough to share!

Wukong: Ah! Thanks, Chi! You’re the only good thing about this New Year!

Chi Jiao: So, where’s Macaque?

Tong Bei erupted from his pile of dough.

Tong Bei: Would you guys please screw around somewhere else?! I got a business to run so if you ain't gonna help, go bother some other dumpling shop owner! And Wukong! Put those proposal things away! You’re still young-

A single orange rolled down through the sewer grates… all the way into the Scorpion Queen’s laboratory.

Scorpion Queen: Ugh, keep laughing. Just wait 'till you see what I've got cooking, then you'll have something to celebrate. Only one hair left.

Flashback to “Pastry or Death”, when she took strands of Macaque’s hair.

Scorpion Queen: This little piece of that Soldier of the Dragon holds all the power I need. You finished tinkering yet?

A blue-skinned demon was tinkering with numerous experiments, grinning confidently.

Yin: I have constructed what you asked for. The delivery systems are operational, so long as the venom works this time.

Scorpion Queen: The venom. Will. Work.

The scorpion demon approached and dropped Macaque’s final strand of hair into the cauldron. His power activated an egg-shaped scorpion robot, which immediately exploded.

The Queen almost lashed out at Yin but forced herself to stay calm.

Scorpion Queen: No. No! No!!! I am the queen! I am meant to rule this world! Not hide beneath it! It... can't be over.

Suddenly, a divine female voice echoed through the room.

????: It doesn’t have to be.

Scorpion Queen: Who… Who said that?

She looked around and saw a shadow forming on the wall.

Scorpion Queen: Show yourself!

????: My apologies.

Out of the shadows stepped a figure—she looked like a businesswoman, her hair sleek and short, a crown resting on her head. Her eyes glimmered gold and emerald.

Nuwa: I just... thought I might be of service.

The Scorpion Queen stared in disbelief.

Scorpion Queen: Service, huh? Who are you?

Nuwa: I am merely someone who thinks the great Scorpion Queen has been absent from her throne for too long. I believe that once your rise, a thing even the Celestial Host cannot achieve will be inevitable: The final destruction of the Dragon Soldier.

The Queen prodded the mysterious woman with her venomous tail, but Nuwa remained calm.

Scorpion Queen: Well, don't you have a sweet way of talking? Dragon Soldier tore me from my throne, took everything I had! What makes you think it's so easy?

Nuwa: I thought maybe we could use... this.

She revealed a white potion shaped like a serpent and a monkey entwined.

Scorpion Queen: My, my, my... I haven't seen one of these for a while.

Nuwa turned toward the cauldron, then back at the scorpion demon.

Nuwa: May I?

She poured the potion into the cauldron. The substance turned white, and another scorpion robot hatched—this time, it didn’t explode.

Scorpion Queen: Well, well, well. Looks like you have your uses after all.

She turned to Yin with a wicked grin.

Scorpion Queen: Let’s give it a spin.

Yin stepped back, terrified.

Yin: Wait, no! I helped you! You need me!

The scorpion robot leapt at him. Yin screamed as his eyes turned violet, a bite mark appearing on his neck. He dropped to his knees.

Yin: My Queen.

The Scorpion Queen smiled proudly, then turned back to the mysterious woman.

Scorpion Queen: Now that's more like it! Okay, Miss Mystery, what's the catch?

Nuwa: I only wish to see order restored, My Queen.

Then she knelt before her.

Scorpion Queen: Well, alright then.

The Queen laughed as she summoned the rest of her army.

---

Up above, a grand parade was taking place. Wukong and Xiangliu floated in the air, watching, while Sha Shou sat in his owner’s lap enjoying the festivities. Tong Bei was cooking dumplings with them.
Wukong clutched something in his pocket a little tighter.

Wukong: Oh, man... Mihou's really missing out on all these awesome floats! I paid good money to make sure the dragon and monkey came one after the other!

Chi Jiao: Yeah, but there’s a scorpion in between them!

They all looked at the red monkey, confused.

Xiangliu: Scorpion? Pfft. There's no scorpion in the zodiac. It's probably just an eight-legged rooster or a—

Then they saw one—an actual scorpion robot rising up, pulling away a tarp that revealed the Scorpion Queen and her army.

Everyone: Scorpion Queen!

Scorpion Queen: Would you look at that? Everyone here to celebrate the Year of the Scorpion! Go let them know their Queen is back.

People screamed and fled as scorpion bots grew larger, infecting everything they touched.
As the chaos spread, Wukong dropped the small box he was holding. He turned to retrieve it—but one of the bots crushed it beneath its claw.

---

At the temple, the pair celebrated New Year’s, blissfully unaware of what was happening.

Mei and Macaque: Happy New Year! Fireworks!

Mei: Over a millennia and fireworks are still the best thing humans have invented!

She breathed out flames, shaping them into an imaginary treat box. Macaque looked at her weirdly.

Macaque: Wait… am I eating fire right now?

Mei: It's better not to think about it.

When the fireworks fizzled out, Macaque spat out the remaining sparks.

Macaque: What happened to the fireworks?

Then both of them used their Flame Sight—and saw the Scorpion Queen destroying the city.

For a brief moment, Mei sensed a bright, familiar energy. Her heart sank.

Macaque: The city!

Mei: Nu—

She stopped herself when she saw Macaque’s confused look.

Mei: Nuuuu... fireworks! Oh, uh, also people getting hurt. I guess.

Macaque drew his sword.

Macaque: Alright, I'll go take care of business.

He prepared to leap away—but Mei grabbed him and tossed him onto her back.

Macaque: Whoa! What—

Mei: No one interrupts my first New Year’s with my student. Let’s go!

They flew toward the city. Mei smirked confidently.

Mei: Huh. Guess Scorpion Queen finally crawled out of her cesspit.

Macaque: Huh?

He froze as he spotted scorpion robots attacking civilians. Horrified, he clung tightly to his mentor, trembling.

Macaque: Scorpions! No, get them away from me! Get them away!

Mei: Fuck off, Mihou!

She tossed him onto a rooftop, her face suddenly stern.

Macaque: Wait! What are you—

Mei: If you can't handle a little scorpion, how are you meant to help me with that? I'll handle this one, bud. You're staying tight.

Macaque’s eyes welled up as he tried to stop her.

Macaque: Wait! I-I can still—

But she was already gone.

Macaque: …help…

---

Mei finally landed where the Scorpion Queen awaited.

Scorpion Queen: Oh, Dragon Soldier! Well, isn't this a nice surprise? Finally come out of hiding just to see me?

Mei took on a teasing tone.

Mei: Didn’t know you were so desperate for attention, Scorpion Princess~

The Queen’s expression twisted with fury.

Scorpion Queen: Scorpion Queen, lizard.

Mei: Whatever.

Scorpion Queen: Thought I'd have to deal with your little brat before I got to you but since you're here, I can destroy you first!

Mei: He’s. Not. My. BRAT!

The Scorpion Queen lunged.

Meanwhile, Macaque landed clumsily on top of one of the machines. Using Flame Sight, he tried to see what was happening.

Dragon Soldier threw the Scorpion Queen into a wall—but the scorpion used the distraction to slip into the shadows.

Mei: Give it up, princess. You’re too easy to read.

Suddenly, she heard whispers from the opposite side. The voice sounded familiar, but she assumed it was one of the Queen’s tricks and charged toward it. She swung a punch—only for it to be caught mid-air by a mysterious woman.

Through Macaque’s Flame Sight, the woman’s eyes flashed white, severing his connection to his mentor.

As Mei met those glowing eyes, she saw her worst nightmare—a vision of a cage. She instantly recognized who it was before being violently thrown back.

The Scorpion Queen emerged from the shadows, grinning.

Scorpion Queen: As easy as a fly

The scorpion demon struck, its venom pinning Mei to the wall. Mei just stared at it unimpressed. Honestly, she’d been through worse.

Mei: “Oh no! A scorpion venom!” You seriously think this can keep me—

A surge of electricity shocked her, draining her powers. She screamed in pain.

Mei: WHAT THE HELL IS THIS?!

Scorpion Queen: Finally. After all these years, you're mine.

The Queen laughed and powered up her base, launching Macaque backward with the blast.

The mysterious woman smiled, turning toward the Queen.

Nuwa: Congratulations on your victory, My Queen.

Scorpion Queen: My special venom will continue to steal Dragon Soldier's power until he's nothing more than a dried up husk. Nothing and no one will be able to stop me.

Outside, Macaque looked in horror at the massive scorpion machine.

Macaque: Oh no…

Chapter Text

Elsewhere, Yaoji and Erlang were running a food stall, selling Erlang’s special spicy meats.

A customer who’d eaten the meat kept pressing the service bell in a fury as his mouth burned.

SSA (Seaside Shop Assistant): That dish may have permanently damaged every organ in my body!

He opened his mouth and shot out a flame. He hammered the service bell over and over.

SSA: Why would you ever sell anything this hot?!

Erlang stopped his hand and his deadly glare turned into a smile.

Erlang: Oh, dear customer. The spice level was no mistake. I, Erlang-Shen, have devised the perfect culinary experience.

He pulled down a chart and proudly explained.

Erlang: If you would direct your attention down at this chart here, it clearly ranks the spice level from "Very Hot" to "CELESTİAL!" You ordered "Very Hot." So...

The customer’s annoyance only grew.

SSA: But it’s the lowest one!

Erlang: Oh so I guess I meant to make barbecue for peasants with little, unworthy, disappointing taste buds that shame their mothers. Is that it, huh?!

The SSA grabbed the collar of Erlang’s apron and shoved her face forward.

SSA: Look, I want to speak to the manager.

Erlang chuckled and shoved her back roughly.

Erlang: Fine, fine. It's your funeral.

He pointed to the grouchy customer to his mumbling mother.

SSA: Actually, I didn’t need my organs anyway so thank you for your service and have a prosperous and fulfilling New Year.

He screamed and ran off — only to be bitten by a scorpion bot trailing behind her.

Erlang buried his face in his hands in exasperation. This was the thirtieth time today.

Erlang: Mother, you can't just scare away every single customer that complains. This is our chance at something great!

Yaoji came nose-to-nose with him.

Yaoji: Great? I’m Yaoji! What would you have me be? The Fairy of Street Food?

Erlang tried to cheer up his sulking mother. Ever since the fall of their former glory, the old celestial had been trying to get along with his mother.

Erlang: Well, yes? I mean, after you recent humiliating defeat, I thought a fresh start was exactly what we needed. Just you and me working together, Mother and Son! No evil plans, no whispering voices.

Yaoji snorted angrily from trauma while Erlang forced a strained smile. He’d just rubbed salt in an open wound.

Erlang: Sorry… fresh wound.

Eventually Yaoji snapped and began to shout.

Yaoji: Enough! I may have failed as conqueror, but I will not be made a fool.

A scorpion robot arrived and destroyed the stall behind them. But our hot chicken seller was still yelling.

Erlang: Ummm, mother?

Yaoji turned to look — and was instantly coated in venom.

Erlang: Mother!

A scorpion robot attacked Erlang; he fought it until he destroyed it, but the poison situation worsened. He ran to the Celestial Jet and ripped off its coverings.

Erlang: I’m sorry, Mother. I will come back!

Then he took off.

---

When the old celestial fairy woke, she found herself trapped inside a machine. Her body was covered in venom.

Yaoji: What?!

She struggled to free herself but could not.

Yaoji: What is this? Who dares...

The Scorpion Queen drifted down from above.

Scorpion Queen: Why, me, of course~

When Yaoji saw the scorpion, she sneered sarcastically.

Yaoji: I have truly fallen if one such as you can best me: The would-be Queen of Scorpions.

Scorpion Queen: Ain't nothing would-be about it. I am the Scorpion Queen. And you? Nothing but a battery for my mech. Look around, beauty. You're not the only prize I snapped up. Every one of them is just dying to give me their power.

A name crossed Yaoji’s mind and she held her breath, glancing around.

Yaoji: Yang Shu?!

The Scorpion Queen toyed with Yaoji, ignoring personal space rules completely.

Scorpion Queen: Aw, don't worry. Haven't caught your useless husband yet.

She turned her face to someone else.

Scorpion Queen: BUT! I did manage to track down an old friend of yours.

They looked up and saw Mei ensnared in a web of venom.

Mei: Well, if it isn’t Yaoji. You too, huh?

Yaoji, seeing the young dragon, tried to struggle out of the venom faster than stone.

Yaoji: Dragon brat!

While the Scorpion Queen watched them, the old fairy continued to struggle against the ropes. Yin and Jin arrived at the door.

Yin: My queen, I have news regarding Erla—

Jin: Ahem, my queen!

He cut in, stepping in front of his twin.

Jin: I have news regarding Erlang.

Yaoji let go of the fight and grumbled.

Yaoji: Useless offspring.

The Scorpion Queen ignored her and turned back to her underlings.

Scorpion Queen: Mhm. Go on.

Jin: He actually uh... got away.

As Yaoji finally processed the info, the Scorpion Queen frowned. Yaoji executed a monumental about-face.

Yaoji: I didn't doubt him for a second. You will never catch him!

The Queen glared at the struggling fairy and then turned to her servants.

Scorpion Queen: Ugh. Find him. Now!

Jin: Yes, my queen.

Yin shut the door. Then the mysterious woman stepped out of the shadows.

Nuwa: My Queen, what of the Dragon Soldier’s protégé and his lover? Perhaps they should join their friend.

Mei snarled angrily at the goddess.

Scorpion Queen: Yeah, and the boy too! I can't have these problematic children running around, causing me problems!

---

The team had fled to the far edge of the city, onto Chi Jiao’s boat.

Xiangliu: Let’s go, let’s go, let’s go!

But Wukong protested and struggled, trying to pull away from two adults holding him… It shouldn’t be like this… He’d made sure everything was perfect! Why did it go wrong?!

Wukong: What about Mihou? I can’t just leave him there!

Tong Bei: Liu’er can protect himself. And besides, he’s with the Dragon Soldier. He’s safer than anyone.

While Wukong stayed tense, Chi Jiao tried to get the boat started.

Xiangliu: Trying to get away from the scorpions and we're in the middle of the o—

Tons of scorpion robots appeared. Xiangliu’s snake companions lay exhausted on either side of her.

Xiangliu: ...-cean…?

As the boat took worse damage, Wukong glared at the red monkey anxiously.

Wukong: Um, Chi? We gotta get going soon.

Chi Jiao fumbled with the controls and tried to speak to his boat.

Chi Jiao: Don’t do this to me.

The control panel burst into flames. Chi Jiao turned to the team and put out the blaze with a fire extinguisher.

Chi Jiao: I don't usually have this problem. Honest.

Xiangliu sighed, hit her forehead, and mumbled desperately.

Xiangliu: We’re all gonna die…

---

Meanwhile, Erlang was trying to reach the city limits but Yin’s machines had found him. Nuwa watched from behind.

Yin: Target acquired.

All of the turrets fired at Erlang from above. Erlang thought he’d dodged them all and grinned proudly — until one hit him and his craft exploded.

---

Then a pair of red eyes appeared from the shadows.

Jin: Now, now, my pets. Be patient. Daddy's gonna have his fun.

Xiangliu: Fuck your mother!

The team gripped their weapons in panic. Well, “weapons” is generous — the only smart gun belonged to Wukong. Tong Bei maybe had a knife. Xiangliu… was that a crowbar?

Wukong: Chi!

Tong Bei: Get us out of here!

Chi Jiao: Uh, working on it!

The red monkey searched under the boat and finally found what he was looking for.

Chi Jiao: Uh here, oh there!

At that moment the demons approached the team, grinning.

Jin: It's not so bad if you go quietly. The transition will be almost painless.

Wukong and Tong Bei took stance with their weapons.

Tong Bei: We can handle one of her lackeys.

A small man appeared and the team laughed… (this guy is Tudi, by the way). Then that small man made himself into a muscled body built of hard earth. Tong Bei fell into despair.

Tong Bei: Two of her lackeys? Oh boy.

Jin and Tuti prepared to fight until Macaque fell from the sky.

Wukong: Mihou?!

Wukong quickly caught Macaque and gently set him down.

Macaque: Guys! You're okay! I thought you've been turned into gross scorpion thingies. They're. Everywhere!

Macaque trembled as memories flooded him.

Tong Bei: Liu’er Mihou, focus!

When Macaque came to, he nodded.

Macaque: Yes! I’m working on it!

He composed himself and faced the demons again.

Jin: We found the Dragon's Soldier apprentice and his lover, exactly where you said they'd be.

Wukong and Macaque: Oh, no…

Macaque ran to the boat and the others hauled him up. The demons charged toward them.

Tong Bei: Chi Jiao! It's now or never, old buddy!

Chi Jiao found a remote control.

Chi Jiao: Found it!

He grabbed the remote and pressed the tiny monkey-button on it. A monkey yelp was heard — and nothing else.

Wukong: Uh, Chi?

Chi Jiao: Give it a minute!

A blast sounded and a dronecopter arrived.

Jin: They can’t escape!

Chi Jiao hurled everyone onto the ship, but Jin managed to throw a tracker onto them.

---

Flying in the sky with the dronecopter, the team breathed a little easier.

Chi Jiao: So, what do you guys think? Been saving it for a rainy day.

Wukong: Real cool, Chi! It's awesome for taking in... the horrifying vistas.

Wukong smiled and took a picture of the view. Suddenly Macaque spoke in a gloomy tone.

Macaque: Scorpion Queen captured the Dragon Soldier… and I… I couldn’t do anything…

The team looked at the boy in disbelief.

Wukong: No!

Tong Bei and Xiangliu: What? That’s not impossible.

Macaque: Yeah, her and this woman, she got her and then I-I didn't even try to help. She lost and then—

Macaque collapsed to the ground and clutched his sword tightly… If Mei had seen him like that she’d scold and tease him… Macaque, confused and sad, was being cheered up by his lover like she always did.

Wukong: It’s okay, Mihou. We got this. We can beat her—

But it didn’t help, and Macaque snapped at his lover.

Macaque: She beat the Dragon Soldier, Wukong! We don't got this!

Macaque realized what he’d said as his sun-faced expression turned slightly frightened and he rubbed his arm.

Macaque: I’m sorry… I just... I don’t know what to do.

The boy sat down, covering his face, but his friends gathered around him.

Tong Bei: Liu’er, no one ever does. Not really.

Wukong: But we're going to figure this out.

Xiangliu: Together!

Chi Jiao: That's right, little man. Just as soon as we deal with that!

Suddenly Erlang screamed and fell from the sky toward them.

Xiangliu: Incoming!

Chi Jiao sent his jet’s power around and shredded him to pieces. Then, holding someone’s head, they all recognized who it was.

Macaque: Erlang?!

Chi Jiao let him go awkwardly while Wukong pointed to the sky, furious.

Wukong: Get him!

Erlang: No—

Before Erlang could finish, the whole team jumped on him.

Erlang: Get off me, you filthy losers!

Then the pair stood before them in a questioning stance.

Macaque: What are you doing here, Erlang?

Wukong: Yeah, spill! You one of the Scorpion Queen's henchmen now, huh?

Erlang looked at them with anger and bewilderment.

Erlang: Henchmen?!

Golden energies streamed from him, forcing everyone back.

Erlang: Not that any of you would care but my mother was captured by that mutated freak! So, if you'll excuse me, I'll just steal this ship and be on my way.

The team was stunned by this.

Macaque: Wait what?! That’s not—

Erlang pressed his palm to his forehead in frustration but tried to stay calm.

Erlang: Ugh, fine! Will you let me steal your ship so I can go save my mother and also the world from this scorpion menace, please?

As Erlang leaned forward, everyone except Chi Jiao went berserk.

Wukong: Are you serious?

Macaque: You can’t steal the ship!

Chi Jiao: Pretty convincing.

But suddenly everyone fell silent at Erlang’s next words.

Erlang: Well, I can’t use mine! It’s busted! One thing I do have is this.

He produced a bottle. Macaque listened carefully, trying to decide what to do. After all, a soldier would do anything to protect those she defended… even if that means cooperating with an enemy.

Erlang: The Scorpion Queen's venom. It's turned everyone into her slaves but I can make an antidote. However, I'll need supplies and the only place to get them is.

He pointed to the sky. Wukong looked up in astonishment.

Wukong: Space?

Macaque playfully smacked Wukong’s cheek with an Ottoman-style slap. (Yes — Macaque and Mei are of Turkish descent canon!!!!)

Macaque: No, you monkey-brain! He means the Celestial Realm!

Xiangliu’s eyes lit up as she advanced toward Erlang.

Xiangliu: The Celestial Realm?! The realm of heavenly deities and immortal beings?!

Tong Bei pulled his snake demon back.

Erlang: Sure.

Macaque still glowered wickedly at Wukong.

Macaque: So if you get to spa— uh the Celestial Realm, you can fix all of this?

Tong Bei shot the mortal boy a sidelong look. He knew Macaque better than anyone… he had raised him.

Tong Bei: Liu’er, you’re not really considering this, are you?

Macaque: Well…

Wukong and Tong Bei stared at the boy in shock.

They hadn’t expected this from him.

Wukong and Tong Bei: WHAT?!

Wukong: Mihou, are you serious? This Er… whatever the hell!

Tong Bei: He’s literally a celestial!

Erlang: Oh, pretty rich coming from two monkey demons!

As the argument continued, Macaque stared at his sword and weighed the options.

Wukong: Don’t you dare talk about Chi Jiao like that!

Chi Jiao: Hey, what'd I do?

Erlang: I'm not even gonna start on you, Stone Monkey!

Macaque thrust his sword into the ground and sent out a wave of electricity. It wasn’t strong enough to twist mouths and faces together, but it was enough to end the quarrel.

Macaque: Let’s help him.

The team stopped attacking each other and looked at the boy, confused.

Team: Huh?

Macaque: What other choice do we have? Look, Scorpion Queen won't see this coming. It's the best plan we've got. So I say let's help a fallen celestial rob the Celestial Realm.

Wukong, Tong Bei, and Erlang glared at each other, then began to move.

Chapter Text

Erlang was casting a spell while the team watched him in total confusion.

Xiangliu: So, how exactly does this work?

Erlang huffed and rolled his eyes.

Erlang: Ugh. If I tried to explain mystical interdimensional travel to a bunch of peasants, it'd melt your brains!

Wukong shot Erlang a sideways glare while Macaque kept a serious look.

Macaque: We don’t have any other option. We have to trust him.

The celestial rolled his eyes mockingly.

Erlang: Great speech, Lizard Brain. Super motivational.

Macaque: Shut up before I throw you into the sea and find my own way to Celestial Realm.

Erlang started his dramatic preparation to open the portal—but got cut off.

Xiangliu: Uh, are we sure demons can travel to the Celestial Realm, yes?

Erlang: Of course they can!

He continued, only to be interrupted again.

Tong Bei: Safely?

Erlang: Sure. Probably.

Everyone except Chi Jiao screamed in panic.

Team: Probably?!

Then they were all sucked through the portal. Static sparks flickered from Chi Jiao’s fur.

Erlang: I did say it'd melt your brains.

He pointed at Chi Jiao’s crackling fur—but it smoothed down once they arrived.

Everyone stared in awe at the heavenly beauty of the Celestial Realm.

Xiangliu: The Celestial Realm...

While the team checked the list of needed items from the book, Tong Bei looked unimpressed.

Tong Bei: So some special pills, a fancy peach, and a furnace. Where are we gonna find these things?

They all looked at Erlang—but he had no answer.

Wukong dramatically gasped just to annoy him, grinning wide.

Wukong: Erlang dooooooesn’t knoooooow!

Erlang: I know they're somewhere! My mother and I used to live here! It's not like I've been here before as a kid.

Xiangliu began to explain.

Xiangliu: Well, in the legend, Dragon Soldier said stole—

Chi Jiao interrupted, startled.

Chi Jiao: Stole? That's not the Dragon Soldier I know.

Xiangliu ignored him and went on.

Xiangliu: Borrowed the Peaches of Immortality from the Heavenly Orchard with her friend so unless they did the sensible thing and moved them, they'll still be there! The pills of the Great Master Lao Tzu, Dragon Soldier and her friend stole— uh, borrowed some of those too, they must be in Lao Tzu's alchemy lab. be in Lao Tzu’s alchemy lab.

Macaque: So when Dragon Soldier screwed up, did her friend screw up too? Like, when Dragon Soldier and Acolyted fucked, was he—

Erlang, realizing where this was heading, quickly cut him off.

Erlang: And what about the furnace? I can't make anything without that.

Xiangliu: It could be there in the lab, but my guess is it will be in the Jade Emperor's throne room.

Macaque: Wait, what?

Wukong: Huh?

Erlang got ready to leave.

Erlang: Alright, then. I'll be off to grab that peach with Lizard Brain here. Toodles!

He jumped—but Wukong caught him midair.

Wukong: What? You think I’ll let you wander around alone with my boyfriend?

Erlang wriggled free and started patting Wukong’s head, making his left eye twitch.

Erlang: You just wait here like an obedient, little—

Wukong bit his hand, making Erlang shriek in pain as they wrestled.

Wukong: No! I’m keeping you where I can see you!

While they fought, Tong Bei tried to focus.

Tong Bei: I'll go for the pills. Uh, they're just regular-looking pills, right? Round-kind-of-shaped-like pills? You know, like normal pills?

Xiangliu: I better come, too.

Macaque: And I’ll get the furnace.

Everyone turned to him, confused by his sudden seriousness.

Tong Bei: On your own? I don't know if that's a good idea.

Xiangliu: The throne room's too well-guarded.

Wukong: If you want, we can—

But Macaque jumped off into the Celestial Realm without hesitation. The team still stared after him, worried.

Wukong: ...go together...

He looked down, disheartened. Chi Jiao tried to cheer him up.

Chi Jiao: You guys get the items and get back here as fast as you can. I'll stay here and knock some sense into the engines.

The team split up—Chi Jiao started hammering the engines with a giant wrench.

Chi Jiao: I’m helping.

Her pet monkey, Sha Shou, ran over carrying something that looked suspicious.

Chi Jiao: What you got there, Sha Shou? Some kind of ominously beeping scorpion-themed tracker?

Sha Shou poked it—it exploded, sending out a signal.

Chi Jiao: Uh, I'm sure it's fine.

Down below, the Scorpion Queen’s minions had already found their vehicles.

---

Macaque had reached the temple’s grand steps and made his way toward the throne room.

Macaque: Whoa.

He climbed up the stairs and entered—unaware he had triggered the lion statues.

Macaque: Guess this is the throne room.

He stared around in awe.

Macaque: Whoa. I knew this place was gonna be big but wow!

A furnace descended into the middle of the room—Macaque’s eyes lit up.

Macaque: There it is! Well, that was easy.

Then two Lion Guardians appeared behind him.

Macaque: Oh. Big... monster dogs. Great.

He panicked and dove inside the furnace.

Macaque: Wait! No, no, no, no, no!

The lid slammed shut, trapping him inside the darkness.

---

Meanwhile, Wukong and Erlang had sneaked into the orchard, looking for peaches while chatting.

Wukong: So, I heard you helped Mihou beat your mom.

Erlang’s jaw clenched. Wukong chuckled—but stopped when he realized Erlang was serious.

Erlang: That was one time! My mother, the Lady Yaoji, was... not herself. But in no other instance would I ever assist that sorry excuse for a soldier.

Wukong tilted his head, studying him.

Wukong: But you're totally assisting right now.

He gasped.

Wukong: You’re a hero!

Erlang: What?

Wukong: The fallen celestial Erlang Shen! Hero of the city. Saving Moms. Saving the world. Saving spicy barbecue one bite at a time. Buy two, get one free.

He flashed his phone, showing Erlang’s restaurant page. Erlang instantly blasted it to dust.

Erlang: Would you give me that!? Let's just get this peach—

Wukong conjured another phone from his fur and started vlogging, arm around Erlang.

(Author’s note: This is NOT a ship. They’re frenemies.)

Wukong: Wukong and Erlang! Heroes on a quest! Okay. Let's go!

Erlang destroyed the new phone too.

Erlang: I just decided, he's next on my hit list.

---

Xiangliu was in the lab, touching everything like a mischievous child.

Xiangliu: Every item is just brimming with untold, dangerous power!

Tong Bei: Xiangliu! Stop screwing around!

He went back to searching while Xiangliu mused.

Xiangliu: Hmm, Lao Tzu's pills. If I know anything about the legends, they won't be easy to find.

Tong Bei: İs it them?

Xiangliu let out a typical fanboy scream as he picked up the pills and began examining them.

Xiangliu: That's them!

Then he cleared his throat.

Xiangliu: Ahem. Yes.

Tong Bei: Great! Let’s get going!

Their victory was short-lived.

Jin: What’s the rush, handsome?

Xiangliu: EXCUSE ME?!

He threw a rope—they narrowly dodged and screamed, Xiangliu clutching Tong Bei tight as his snakes sank fangs into his shoulder to hold on.

---

Macaque sat in the furnace, defeated and alone.

Macaque: There is no way I can do this. I can't do anything on my own.

A glimmer of light caught his eye.

Macaque: Dragon Soldier! I knew you’d—

It was just his reflection. He groaned and punched the wall.

Macaque: Oh perfect! Perfect! Just what I needed! Useless Liu’er Mihou! What you have to got to say, huh?

Reflection Macaque: Uh, that’s not how mirrors work.

He sighed, lying back down.

Macaque: Oh no. Nope. I’m losing it. I’ve gone insane.

The reflection frowned.

Reflection Macaque: Stop that. Listen. Every time we get in trouble, we turn to Dragon Soldier or our friends or someone. They tell us a story and we find that smidge of motivation we need. Well, now we're on our own. It's just... you.

Macaque stared at his blade in despair, lost in thought. When he reached out to touch the blade, blood fell from his hands onto the blade. Suddenly, Macaque saw that the woman bore a striking resemblance to his warden, and he heard a few screams from the future.

---

Meanwhile, Wukong was making Erlang carry him to reach the peach.

Wukong: Hey, remember when you went crazy racing for a fake one of these things?

Erlang:  I remember when you wrecked my car.

Wukong: Eh, we wreck a lot of stuff.

He plucked the peach. Erlang grunted and started walking—with Wukong still on his shoulders.

Erlang: Oh well, that was easy.

Then they bumped into Tuti, who began speaking gibberish.

Tuti: Tuuuti, tuuuti. Titu ti titun tutu tuttu titatutu.

(Author’s note: I just made up this language for fun.)

Both stared, offended.

Wukong: His—

Erlang: BUDDY?! Fist of Golden Honor!

He punched; golden energy exploded. Tuti, still adorable, facepalmed in fury.

Tuti: TU Tİ TATATA!

They ran as Tuti chased, shouting nonsense.

Tuti: TUTTU TU TITA TU TO!

Erlang: Let. Me. Down!

Wukong: There's no time!

---

Jin searched for the pair hiding in the lab.

Jin: Here, handsome~ handsome~

Tong Bei whispered to him in panic. He no longer cared about the pain.

Tong Bei: Oh, we gotta do something.

Xiangliu hummed thoughtfully and then began rummaging through the shelves.

When he finally found what he was looking for, a door fell and broke, and Jin finally found them.

He knocked over a bottle—Jin found them instantly.

Jin: There you are.

Tong Bei took out a nunchuk with bloody meat from his pocket and spun it around.

Tong Bei: You’re going down!

But Xiangliu steps forward and throws the bottle at Jin. The bottle falls, and nothing happens except for a little jiggling. But soon, the substance sprouts tentacles and pulls him under.

After this terrifying moment, Tong Bei remains slightly frightened. Xiangliu smiles coldly.

Tong Bei: That was... more aggressive than I expected.

Xiangliu rolled his eyes and grabbed Tong Bei's wrist.

Xiangliu: Ugh. Come on. Let’s go.

While they were leaving, Jin had already managed to free himself.

---

Inside the furnace, Reflection Macaque was still trying to motivate him.

Reflection Macaque: Hey, did you know uh Dragon Soldier was trapped in here once too?

Macaque: Yeah. Difference is—

Reflection Macaque: There’s no difference. She jumped in for safety, too. But you know what she did? She stuck it out, found a way out. Ended up getting her Flame Eyes of Truth too.

Macaque: Well, I’m not Dragon Soldier, okay?

Reflection Macaque: You’re right. You’re the Soldier of the Dragon. You've got to figure out your own way to win. So do it.

Macaque finally stood, grabbed his blood-streaked hlade, and looked at his reflection one last time.

Macaque: Here comes... the SOLDIER OF THE DRAGON!

He creates a Lion Guard mech that takes the furnace and then turns and pulls the middle finger at the lions while running away.

Macaque: ...Boom.

He detonates the temple and the Lion Guard chases him.

---

Chi Jiao was fixing the engine when she saw her friends running toward her.

Tong Bei: CHI JIAO!

The demons leapt onto the ship. Chi Jiao’s eyes sparkled when she saw the pills.

Chi Jiao: Tong Bei! Xiangliu! You got the pills!

Xiangliu: Uh huh! We also have scorpions! They followed us here!

Chi Jiao: Oh...

Tong Bei: Where are the others?!

Wukong’s voice echoed.

Wukong: CHI!

They turned and saw Wukong carrying Erlang, an insect demon right behind them.

Xiangliu: Start the engines! It's time to go!

Wukong and Erlang jumped aboard, exhausted.

Tong Bei: What about Liu’er?!

As soon as they called his name, the child started screaming.

Macaque: CHI JIAO!

He came running, chased by the Lion Guardians.

Macaque: Start! The! Drone!

Chi Jiao started the engines. Jin tried to jump on, but Tuti grabbed him.

Jin: What are you doing? I could have made it.

Tuti: Te, tuta ti tu ta, tu?

Behind them, Macaque leapt aboard.

Macaque: Yeah!

They shot off toward the Mortal Realm. Jin growled.

Jin: The Queen ain't gonna be happy about this.

Tuti pointed back—the Lion Guardians were closing in.

Tuti: Te... tu ta pi tu?

The Lions tore through the ground behind them.

---

Reunited in the sky, the team caught their breath.

Xiangliu: So uh... what now?

Macaque: We find a place to lie low, make the antidote, and save everyone.

Erlang groaned.

Erlang: Ugh, you're back to your disgustingly hopeful self. What happened?

Macaque: I got a new power. The power...

Everyone leaned closer.

Macaque: ...of self-confidence.

Everyone stared in admiration—except Erlang, who rolled his eyes.

Wukong: So! Where we headed?

Macaque stood at the front of the drone dramatically, pointing forward with his sword—then down toward the ocean.

Macaque: Set a course... for the Jade Temple!

Chapter Text

Inside the machine, Mei and Yaoji were trapped, their powers drained as they struggled to break free.

Mei: What do you think, Grandma?

Yaoji glared at her, disgusted by what the girl had become.

Mei: Enjoying the party?

Yaoji: She would never have subdued me had you not given her the power she needed.

Mei smirked and rolled her eyes.

Mei: Or it's just that she captured me first 'cause I'm her favorite.

The Scorpion Queen watched them with delight when the door burst open — that same mysterious woman and her two lackeys entered once again.

Nuwa: My Queen. It seems the Celestial, the Dragon Soldier’s protégé, and that stone monkey are working together.

Scorpion Queen: So? What can they do? This city is mine.

Nuwa: Perhaps you should—

The Queen sharply cut her off, and Mei could feel the woman’s frustration.

Scorpion Queen: Enough! I don't need you coming here being a party pooper. You know what we need to do? Celebrate! Bring in the Year of the Scorpion in style!

Nuwa: …As you wish.

As the door closed, Nuwa’s eyes briefly glowed white.

---

Erlang was finishing the last steps for the antidote.

Erlang: I, Erlang Shen, will find the powers of the Celestial artifacts with the Scorpion Queen's own venom, save my mother, and reforge the world as I see fit!

He laughed wickedly. Macaque and Wukong approached, clearly entertained.

Wukong: Erlang, that was amazing!

Macaque: Such a good warrior speech.

Erlang snapped toward them, offended.

Erlang: Villain speech! And perhaps my best of all time!

As they bickered, Tong Bei suddenly stepped forward, pulling Macaque protectively back.

Tong Bei: Okay, so what do we do now, guy?

Erlang: We do nothing. I add the ingredients in a very precise order you wouldn't understand.

Wukong:  Uh, there's only two more ingredients, Three-Eyes.

Macaque: And I already chucked them in.

Erlang: What?!

The moment Macaque tossed the ingredients in, the cauldron exploded — a shard nicked his cheek.

Macaque: You’re welcome.

Everyone lay coughing on the ground. Macaque and Xiangliu went to check the mixture.

Xiangliu: Ooh, I think it worked.

Macaque: Alright. Time to take the fight back to the Scorpion Queen and end this nightmare once and for all.

But the others didn’t look convinced.

Tong Bei: How? Those scorpion people aren't just gonna line up for a sip.

Xiangliu: And even if they did, are we forgetting about Scorpion Queen? She defeated the Dragon Soldier! How are you...

Macaque’s face darkened. His sword glinted as he raised it toward them, eyes flashing with a dangerous light. Then, realizing what he was doing, he quickly lowered it.

Macaque: S-sorry… I just— We’ll find a way. We always do.

Chi Jiao: Well, I might have an idea.

He pulled out another remote and pressed a button — a drone unfolded, revealing built-in water cannons.

Wukong: Oh, yes!

Macaque: With this, we might have a chance!

He hurled the antidote inside, and they took off.

---

The Scorpion Queen feasted on food brought by her zombie servants, lounging on her throne as fireworks burst in the distance.

Scorpion Queen: Oh, here comes the scorpion float! And the scorpion dancers! This is how you rule the world!

Suddenly, she noticed a parade float bearing the symbol of the Dragon Soldier.

Scorpion Queen: What is that?

Yin: I don't know. It's not on the approved parade schedule.

Before they could react, Nuwa vanished from sight — and from behind the float, the heroes appeared.

Macaque: If it isn't Scorpion Queen throwing herself a party, prepare to meet your doom!

Macaque laughed darkly. Erlang looked at him like a proud soldier.

Erlang: Now that’s a soldier speech!

Wukong: Wow, Mihou, you're handling your scorpion phobia so well.

But Macaque was trembling, sweat running down his forehead.

Macaque: I'm internalizing a lot of stuff right now. Release the antidote!

The team unleashed the antidote — slowly, the citizens began regaining their senses.

Scorpion Queen: No!

Citizens: Freedom… Freedom! I’m free! I’m free!

Wukong: It’s working! Let’s finish this!

As the team descended, Macaque tried to deliver another cool hero speech — but the Queen’s gesture sent a shock through him.

Macaque: You reign of horror is—  over…

Scorpion Queen: Oh, Dragon Child… you're nothing without your master. There's nothing that can stop me! Nothing!

She activated her robot. Macaque lunged, sword in hand — but she hurled him across the floor.

Wukong: Mihou!

The others rushed forward, only to be caught in her poisonous snares.

---

Yaoji seemed exhausted, barely fighting back. Mei rolled her eyes, unimpressed.

Mei: It's a shame, really. You being trapped here. No one to protect poor little Yang Shu.

Though tired, Yaoji’s strength flared up.

Yaoji: My husband doesn't need protecting! He will decimate all in his way!

Her fury shattered the poison cocoons. Mei grinned.

Mei: Oh yeah? How about your half-celestial son? Scorpion Queen's gonna eat him alive all because you were too weak.

Rage consumed Yaoji — she tore through every cocoon.

Mei: Hah! It worked! Excellent!

But Yaoji slammed Mei to the ground.

Mei: Whoa! Yaoji, I was just getting you angry so you can—

Yaoji: I know what you were doing!

She shattered Mei’s cocoon and turned to leave.

Mei: Wait—where are you going?

Yaoji: To find my half-celestial son. You should find your own child too.

Mei: He’s not my—

The Celestial Fairy blasted through the base’s roof and vanished. Mei rubbed her neck and chuckled.

Mei: I've honestly missed old lady.

Then she sensed a dark aura. Turning around, her expression hardened.

Mei: …So, you thought you had all the pieces right where you wanted them.

Nuwa: There are so many moves I have yet to play.

Mei’s — no, Hundun’s — eyes flared green and orange.

Mei: You should’ve stayed locked away.

The soldier lunged, but Nuwa vanished. White mist swirled around Mei as a whisper echoed:

"I will rip the memory of you from this world."

Nuwa appeared behind Mei, showing her a vision — Macaque screaming in agony, destroying the world, while Wukong stood above in royal robes, eyes glowing pure white.

Mei punched through the fog to escape. Her teeth clenched with fear and anger as cracks scorched the stone beneath her feet.

---

The Scorpion Queen approached the boy, monologuing as always.

Scorpion Queen: Hmm. After all I've won and lost and won again, you think I was really gonna let some boy take it from me. Bye bye, problem child.

But as she prepared to strike, she realized her powers were fading — the base was losing energy.

Scorpion Queen: No! My powers!

Suddenly, Yaoji burst through the ceiling, landing before her.

Yaoji: I am no one’s slave!

She struck the ground, sending a shockwave that freed everyone. Then she broke open her son’s poison cocoon.

Erlang: Mother!

He smiled, then freed Wukong and the others. But the Queen still grinned.

Scorpion Queen: All of you together can't beat me! I am the Queen!

???: Oh, yeah?

Everyone looked up — Mei was walking down the wall, blade in hand.

Mei: Then I’m the soldier here to end your reign.

She sliced through the bindings holding Macaque. Kneeling beside him, she smiled faintly. The vision still haunted her, but for now… Macaque was safe. For now.

Mei: Turns out, I'm not so good with scorpions either.

Macaque looked confused but smiled back, standing with his sword. Mei noticed the dried blood on both.

The Scorpion Queen roared in fury.

Scorpion Queen: If I can’t rule this world... No one can! I'll level this whole city!

Mei and Macaque shot into the sky.

Mei: Alright, Mihou. It's now or never!

Macaque: Right!

They spun together, blades glowing.

Mei & Macaque: Here! Comes! Soldier of the—!

Mei: DRAGON!

She hurled him forward proudly.

Scorpion Queen: No—!

Macaque struck the base, destroying it — but he fell.

Macaque: No!

Mei caught him in her dragon form, but they were still falling fast — until Yaoji swooped in and saved them both.

Macaque: Thanks—

He froze when he realized who he was thanking.

Mei: Yao— Yaoj— Mama Yaoji, ma’am?

They all looked up at the glowing aurora above.

Macaque: Whoa…

Wukong: Whoa.

Mei smiled, perched on her apprentice’s shoulder.

Mei: Hah, now those are New Year's fireworks! Huh?

---

Everyone gathered on the rooftop, enjoying the rest of New Year’s night.

Macaque and Mei sat on the edge.

Macaque: We should really get better at not smushing the city.

Mei: Eh, priorities.

They both laughed.

Mei: You did really good today, Mihou. Still, we are going to talk about that blood thing later.

But Macaque looked worried.

Macaque: Are you okay? After—

Mei: It’s fine, Mihou. It’s dealt with. Well, except maybe… the Wukong situation.

Wukong grinned at the Celestial nearby.

Wukong: Hey, Mama Yaoji! Your baby Erlang did some top-tier soldiering today!

Erlang groaned.

Erlang: No! NO! For the last time, I am not a hero, warrior, or soldier!

Wukong just posed dramatically. Erlang turned red, glancing shyly at his mother.

Erlang: Mother… let's never tell Father anything that happened today?

Yaoji smiled softly.

Yaoji: Agreed. Come along... Son.

Erlang blinked.

Erlang: S-Son?

Then he smiled, savoring the moment before walking off with her.

The rest turned to Macaque — but Mei was gone.

Xiangliu: Where did the Dragon Soldier go, huh?

He found a small box of treats.

Xiangliu: Oh. Well, don't mind if I do.

Macaque watched the Dragon Soldier soaring into the night.

Macaque: Happy New Year's… Dragon Soldier.

Wukong: Ooh, yummy!

Macaque’s eyes widened.

Macaque: Wait, no! Don’t eat that!

Xiangliu: Tastes like fire.

---

Down below, the Scorpion Queen wept. Defeated. Again. Powerless. She hated them all.

Scorpion Queen: Where were you?! What happened to my role?!

Nuwa returned, eyes glowing white.

Nuwa: Your mission has not been changed or diminished. Your enemies have done exactly what we needed.

She brought the Trigram Furnace beside her.

Nuwa: And now, my Queen, the real game can begin.

Chapter Text

In the Scorpion Cavern, the Scorpion Queen was furiously tearing apart her laboratory. Her demon servants watched uneasily as their queen raged.

Scorpion Queen: I had the Dragon Soldier's power! The city was mine! And I still lost.

Nuwa glided in, carrying the Trigram Furnace with a white glow, and smiled.

Nuwa: My Queen, you will have your revenge. Now that we have the Trigram Furnace, it is time to take the next step towards your plan.

Scorpion Queen: And how is that supposed to help? Actually better question. What is that?

Nuwa: The first of six powerful items that we will need. It must be retrieved from the Cloud.

Yin suddenly elbowed forward, bowing dramatically. Jin collapsed to the ground while Tuti just stood there.

Yin: The Cloud? My Queen, allow me to break in and bring you this item.

The Scorpion Queen glared at the silver demon with only partial approval.

Scorpion Queen: Oh really. And just how are you gonna do that?

Yin opened a holographic map of the Cloud.

Yin: The Cloud is a labyrinth of information, an unrivaled collection of knowledge guarded by fearsome beings who cannot be overcome by brute strength or the ability to follow footprints in mud.

When Jin realized the emphasis, he snorted angrily and hurled a clod of earth.

Yin: However it is connected to all the technology in the world. Therefore I can exploit it.

He opened an app store on the holo — a bug-shaped app icon appeared.

Yin: Has anyone heard the story of the Sleep Bug?

Yin chuckled darkly, downloaded the app — and it began to spread everywhere.

---

Across Megapolis, ads for the “Sleep Bug” app popped up on phones and screens. In Tong Bei’s dumpling shop, Wukong scrolled his phone instead of listening to the argument.

Tong Bei: That's it! I'm cutting ya' off until ya' clear this tab!

Xiangliu rolled her eyes, and Wukong glanced at the notification that had appeared on his phone.

Wukong: The Sleep Bug?

He vaguely remembered that kind of myth, though he wasn’t sure if it was real.

Thinking it was just a legend, they all tapped the game — and the moment they did, the game reached out and touched them.

---

Macaque: Whatta you mean vacation? W-we haven’t even talked about my injured hand!

At the Jade Temple, Mei was packing while Macaque stared anxiously at his mentor.

He flicked his gaze to a notification on his phone for a moment, then tossed it aside in a huff.

Mei: Come on Mihou. I promised myself when I found a successor I'd go see some friends, take a tour of my old stomping grounds, just cut loose y'know. Ooh gonna need these.

She smiled, slipping on a pair of sunglasses. But the mortal kid was still panicky — clinging to Mei like a baby dragon to its mother. Guess he’d learned that from actual baby dragons.

Macaque: But you can't just leave! What if some one attacks the city. What if the Scorpion Queen comes back?! What if I get hurt worse?!

Mei remained perfectly calm and tried to pry him off, but Macaque clung on to every part of her she held.

Mei: Ah, you'll figure it out. It's adorable how nervous you are. But don't be! You've come a long way! And you know, the next step of your journey you must do alone.

Finally Mei managed to toss him off — she hated using skin heat to do it, but it worked. Macaque wasn’t pleased; he stared at his master with a frightened look.

Macaque: ALONE?! BUT I’M YOUR PROTÉGÉ!

Mei: Don’t worry! I'll check in, give you some training tools, remote lessons, ah we'll figure it out. You'll be great. Don't worry! Dragon Soldier out!

As she took off, Macaque shouted after her.

Macaque: Fine! J-just leave! At least my friends will never abandon me!

---

Macaque basically barged into the dumpling shop.

Macaque: Can you believe Dragon Soldier just—

Finding the place empty, Macaque’s breath hitched in panic.

Macaque: My friends abandoned me...

Then Wukong — passed out — bumped his foot, and relief and joy washed through Macaque. He breathed out and began waking his sleeping friends.

Macaque: Oh, thank goodness. Xiangliu! Wukong! Tong Bei? Wake up! Cool, cool, cool. Okay. Everyone is asleep. Dragon Soldier is gone. It's just me and my thoughts. All alone. This is fine.

Feeling the presence of the orphanage caretaker behind him, Macaque curled up sadly in the shop. Meanwhile, Yin had already infiltrated the Cloud.

---

The whole city was asleep.

Everyone except Macaque.

He was carrying his sleeping boss in a shopping cart. The boss wore a purple bathrobe, had dark circles under his eyes and messy hair… If Wukong had been awake, he’d have leapt on him. The only thing ruining the look were his untied shoes — he hadn’t learned to tie laces. Well, he knew, but Xiangliu scolded him and tied them, and he liked it. Xiangliu did that every day… even while he slept.

Macaque: It seems like years since the big sleep hit. Months, weeks, possibly as much as half an hour. Time has become irrelevant.

He did a voice when mimicking Tong Bei, thickening his tone.

Tong Bei (Macaque): Chin up Liu’er. You'll always have your Tong Bei. And I'm not going anywhere, Son.

Macaque’s eyes filled with tears; he couldn’t hold it any longer and dropped to his knees, sobbing — clutching Tong Bei’s arm like a child.

Macaque: Thanks, Tong Daddy!

Just then Macaque’s phone buzzed. One eye twitched.

Macaque: Argh, who’s calling me? Oh, wait!

He grabbed the phone and stood up.

He thought someone was calling him.

But no — it was just the Sleep Bug game.

Macaque: Aw, it's just some game.

He noticed something odd about the app.

Macaque: Sleep Bug?

His breath stopped as he compared his phone with everyone else’s.

Macaque: What if this is somehow connected?

He realized everyone had launched the Sleep Bug app — and started thinking.

Macaque: Think Macaque. Everyone's asleep. They were all playing the game. The game is called Sleep Bug.

When the truth hit him, he gasped.

Macaque: OH FUCK! The game put everyone to sleep! I have to delete that game. And games are stored at the uh-

An idea came — he grinned.

Macaque: The Cloud! The Cloud! An unrivaled collection of all knowledge. That's it! Soldier of the Dragon and his powerful brain as done it again!

He drew his blade, clanged the shopping cart to create a makeshift bike out of tin cans — it disappeared instantly. When he struck the cart with his sword again, a real bike formed.

Macaque: Oh yeah!

He hopped on and, before leaving, bid farewell to the sleeping monkey.

Macaque: Wish me luck, Tong Daddy. Here comes Soldier of the Dragon!

He set off for the Cloud, but when he accidentally nudged the cart it rolled away on its own — poor Tong Bei probably got knocked around.

---

Macaque reached the Cloud safely — and was surprised to find it empty.

Macaque: No guardians? Something’s definitely up. No beefy handsome guards?

He put his hand on the door and stepped inside — and promptly faceplanted.

Macaque: This is the worst day of my life.

He stood, then gaped at the place — a library. He loves libraries.

Macaque: Wow…

But when he realized how big it was and what he’d come for, panic set in.

Macaque: How am I gonna find the game?!

He spotted a red icon running away — the game was fleeing him.

Macaque: Ha! Red means bad! Uh, sometimes it means good. Dah, you know what that's probably it. Le-go!

He chased the app, but it was fast — like, if I were a game, I’d run faster too.

Macaque: Where are you little bug! I'm gonna find you.

Finally he cornered the app — too easy.

Macaque: A-ha! Found ya bug! Thanks for making it easy for me.

He drew his blade from its hilt.

Macaque: Time to bring my friends back.

He spun his sword and created a green beam in the air — then heard a voice and turned.

Yin: Well, well, well. The one and only Soldier of the Dragon. You should be asleep.

Yin hid a box behind his back. Macaque was stunned at the sight of another person, breathless, but nothing happened.

Macaque: Another person! Wait. One of Scorpion Queens goons! Wait why should I be asleep?

Yin tilted his head.

Yin: Ugh, because of my Sleep Bug game? That sent the whole city to sleep.

Macaque rushed up to the demon in a panic — nose to nose.

Macaque: That was in purpose?!

Yin shoved him back with a mechanical limb, annoyed.

Yin: Of course! Now did I need to put the whole city to sleep just to incapacitate the two guardians here? Perhaps not. But, in for a penny in for a pound. Either way, you don't have the mental dexterity to debug my game. Your just a motherboard with a decent GPU and busted processing unit.

When Yin smacked Macaque on the head, his face shrank. He clutched his sword.

Macaque: Uh. G...P...whaaaat?

Yin: A graphics processing unit. It means you look good and are well animated but your brain is damaged.

Macaque struck an overly cool demon-slayer pose.

Macaque: Huh. Look I don't know what you're talking about but are we gonna fight or what.

Yin grinned and revealed his mechanical limbs.

Yin: Hmmm… no. I’m a big fan of outsourcing.

Yin awakened the guardians, then attached sticky mechanical poison devices to the ceiling and waved goodbye to the boy as he left.

Yin: While I'd love to hang around and chat, I have other things to attend to. You're about to be eviscerated by the ancient Guardians of Knowledge. So I guess were both pretty busy. Okay byeeeee!

Macaque: Hey! Get back here!

But the demon was already gone. As if things weren’t bad enough, two guardians appeared behind him.

Two Guardians: Only those marked in the great ledger of knowledge and time shall be deemed worthy to enter this temple of wisdom... and live.

Macaque rolled his eyes and stuck out his tongue at the dismissive guardian. Then he took a deep breath — and the guardians attacked. After a long chase, they caught the child.

Two Guardians: You are not on the ledger! You are not worthy!

The guardians prepared to strike. Macaque muttered to himself to calm down.

Macaque: C'mon Macaque! You can do this. Self-confidence. That's the fucking Dragon Soldier 101.

He raised his dragon blade toward the guardians.

Macaque: Wait! I am worthy. Definitely worthy. I'm Soldier of the Dragon, basically the new Dragon Soldier. Might have heard of me. Y'know, the next chapter? I'm totally worthy!

The two guardians looked at each other, then the pink one spoke.

P.G.: Irrelevant, you are not on the ledger.

They spoke in unison and prepared to attack.

Two Guardians: You are not worthy.

Just as they were about to strike, Macaque shouted in exasperation.

Macaque: CAN I ADD MY NAME TO THE LEDGER?!

The guardians froze. Macaque was still pinching his nose.

Macaque: Like- can I sign up? Is that a thing?

The guardians smiled happily.

Two Guardians: Of course. Knowledge is for everyone.

The pink guardian held Macaque’s head, and this time he clung to that hand like a baby dragon.

Two Guardians: Come on. Come on. Let's get you sorted out.

Macaque: Okay.

---

Macaque signed in on the computer.

P.G.: And if you'll just enter your full name here.

Macaque: Oh? Yep. Okay.

He began typing his name.

Macaque: Liu’er… Mihou…

The blue guardian was surprised at how many names the child had — and names from different languages poured in.

M.G.: Wow, you have so many names.

Macaque nodded in agreement.

Macaque: Yeah, no wonder I go by "Macaque" right?

The pink guardian walked to the printer.

P.G.: And print. Well you're just gonna love being a member. There's never a dull moment.

They waited as an ID printed — it came out with a thud and hit Macaque in the head, then fell into his hand.

M.G.: Enjoy your time at The Cloud. Remember, we've got lots of books. It's not just-

Macaque cut off the blue guardian.

Macaque: The game!

He dashed after the bug, and the blue guardian’s smile faded.

M.G.: Games.

P.G.: Oh don't be elitist you were playing that one today.

M.G.: So were you.

The pink guardian rubbed his neck guiltily.

P.G.: I know. I'm so bad. We should read more.

Macaque finally found the game — but didn’t know how to defeat it.

Macaque: Aw man. That demon geek was right. I don't know how to un-hack this. What would Dragon Soldier do?

He tried imitating his mentor.

Macaque (as Mei): You can do this, Mihou. It's time to stand on your own two feet.

He looked around and at last found a book.

Macaque: Ha-Ha! I got it!

He smashed the bug with the book and destroyed the game.

Macaque: Aw yeah! And they said being a nerd didn't have its advantages. Who's the GPU now!

The game vanished and everyone woke up.

Tong Bei yawned, came to, realized he was in a cart heading toward a wall — and screamed.

---

Macaque: So even though I was all alone and had been completely abandoned by everyone, I used my brain and saved the whole city. I did great and there were no negative consequences at all.

Tong Bei lay in a hospital bed, bandaged. Xiangliu glared, and Wukong looked worriedly at the boy… As you all know, the line between clever and foolish is thin, and Macaque was using it like a damn skipping rope.

---

Yin: My Queen.

Yin emerged from the shadows carrying a box. The Scorpion Queen grinned.

Nuwa opened the box using a key she carried and projected a hologram.

The Queen stared at the snake-bodied goddess hologram in astonishment.

Scorpion Queen: What is this?

Nuwa: A guide. A pathway to greatness. With this you will build your revenge one piece at a time. Five more items of power must be collected. And then... we shall forge your role.

Chapter Text

Macaque was cleaning the shop while Wukong was taking pictures of him. The perverted bastard.

Macaque: Wukong, would you-

When he noticed Wukong snapping photos, his brows furrowed.

Macaque: Hey! Cut it out.

Then he tried to pose nicely anyway.

Macaque: At least get my good side!

The flash went off again, making Macaque drop his broom.

Macaque: Nooooo!

As he reached for it, his eyes briefly glowed green and he clutched his aching head, falling to his knees.

???: Hey Mihou! Can you hear me?

The surroundings burst into green fire as Tong Bei turned to the boy in alarm. Macaque felt his skin start to burn... He leaned on the broom for support.

Tong Bei: You feelin' alright Liu’er?

A fiery silhouette of Mei appeared, her voice still echoing inside his head.

Mei: Hello! Dragon Soldier to Soldier of the Dragon!

Macaque stared in confusion at the dragon mentor manifesting before him.

Macaque: Dragon Soldier?

When Mei finally established the connection, she sighed in relief and wiped the sweat from her brow.

Mei: Hey! There you are, bud. Oh good, you're not dead yet. That's a relief.

Macaque panicked at her words.

Macaque: Dead?! What? What's happening to me? Is this what dying is like?!

Mei tried to calm him down.

Mei: Pff... relax. Little telepathic communication never hurt anyone. I think.

Macaque: I heard that!

Mei flinched, caught off guard, then smiled awkwardly and got back to business.

Mei: Anyway. Everything is fine! Well, mostly fine. So listen, we've got a bit of a problem.

Macaque tilted his head in confusion.

Macaque: Uhhh…

Outside, a woman screamed when she saw something in the sky.

Woman: What is that?!

Macaque looked out the window and gasped—then fell as the others crowded behind him.

A giant dumpling was falling toward the city. It shocked everyone.

Wukong: İs that a…

Tong Bei: Giant dumpling?

But Xiangliu was staring at it hungrily.

Xiangliu: As delicious as it is terrifying.

While Macaque looked traumatized, Mei grinned through the psychic link.

Mei: So yeah. Me and the boys got in a bit of a food fight up here in the Celestial Realm. Anyway, long story short I need you to handle the tiny itty bitty giant dumpling before it falls to Earth and destroys everything.

That didn’t reassure Macaque. He pointed his broom accusingly.

Macaque: What?! How am I supposed to do that?!

Mei was way too calm—it was suspicious.

Mei: Bahh, you're a smart guy. You'll figure it out. I probably got something that can help you back at my place. Anyway I gotta go. Believe in yourself and you can do anything! Okay byeeee.

Macaque: Wait but I—!

But the connection was already gone.

---

As soon as Mei cut the link with her successor, her bright smile faded, replaced by an icy seriousness.

Mei: Now… where were we?

She turned to the frightened gods. Instead of boasting, she kept her composure.

Mei: Oh yeah.

From her tail, she drew a scroll and tossed it onto the table, unfurling it.

Inside was a painting of the goddess of creation, yin and yang, and a troop of monkeys.

Mei: I think you were gonna tell me a little something about this, right?  And do yourself a favor. Don't drop any more food into the realm where the little ones live.

---

The dumpling was still falling as Macaque gathered the team and laid out the plan.

Macaque: Alright. This will undoubtedly be our most perilous mission of all time. A journey to the room where Dragon Soldier keeps all her junk to find a something to stop a celestial dumpling from destroying the world.

Wukong: I vote we throw Xiangliu at it!

Macaque: Then Xiangliu dies, so no.

He grabbed his lover’s shoulder dramatically.

Macaque: There's only one person with the smarts, the bravery, and the heroically awesome eyes to be my wingman on this mission of certain death.

Wukong perked up. Finally, a rare adventure without the Dragon Soldier—just like old times.

But then Xiangliu stepped in.

Xiangliu:  I mean it's me, right?

Macaque immediately shoved Wukong aside and went to stand by the snake demon.

Macaque: Well, I mean obviously.

They both laughed while Tong Bei looked utterly lost.

Tong Bei: Your kidding right?

Macaque: I kid you not, my sweet sweet Tong Bei. Xiangliu and I are experts on Dragon Soldier’s lore. So yeah, this makes sense.

Macaque leaned on Xiangliu’s shoulder as he read a book. Wukong couldn’t take it anymore.

Wukong: Mihou! This is obviously a mission for just you and me! Besides, I even got a new jet!

Wukong proudly pointed to his jet, but it didn’t change Macaque’s mind.

They were already boarding the aircraft.

Macaque: Sorry, Wukong! Can’t hear you all over the sound of my awesome hover bike! Ok byeee~!

As they flew off, Wukong shouted after them, golden energy sparking under his feet.

Wukong: Ours actually will be ghe action movie of the century and you know it! Why are you letting him drive?!

But it was too late.

He remembered a certain voice’s warning, and for a brief moment, he felt a stone—an emptiness—form inside his heart.

He sighed in disappointment and went back into the shop, Tong Bei watching him leave sadly.

---

Macaque and Xiangliu flew through the skies. Xiangliu looked confident; Macaque, not so much.

Macaque: You'll have to hang on left and land up the temple entrance.

But Xiangliu ignored him.

Xiangliu: I sure I know how to fly a futuristic hover bike.

Then he started ascending.

Macaque: Uh, Xiangliu? XIANGLIU! I said-!

The dragons below scattered in fear as the jet crashed spectacularly into the ground.

Yet Xiangliu stayed perfectly calm.

Xiangliu: As I said: I know how to fly. Anyway! I presume it’s this way.

He started walking confidently.

Macaque: You know, I’m starting to think maybe I should’ve brought Wukong.

Xiangliu: Oh pfft. Don't be silly. Who else would know the difference between the legendary trishula and avarege nine-dragon trident? Besides, he’d spend the whole time flirting with you and forget the mission.

He chuckled, pointing toward the temple atop the hill.

Xiangliu: Come now! Onward the Jade Garden. Dragon Soldier’s temple is up there.

He strutted off while Macaque glared at him, eyes glowing faintly.

---

Meanwhile, Jin had arrived at the temple, sniffing around.

Jin: It's close… I can smell it.

He touched the temple gate—but the seal blasted him back.

Jin: It’s never easy. Huh?

Sensing someone approaching, he hid behind a statue.

Macaque carried Xiangliu over his shoulder, while the snake demon posed dramatically once they landed.

Xiangliu: Why thank you, my young friend. I thought we were done back there when my weak ankles began to give me trouble.

His stance was flawless until Macaque yelled at him.

Macaque: Yeah… at the start of Flower Road!

Xiangliu: Well, childhood injuries do pick rather convenient times to flare up again, do they not?

He patted Macaque’s hair as he landed. Macaque glared murderously and followed him.

At the temple, Xiangliu admired the architecture.

Xiangliu: Wow, the Jade Temple. That's the name of the Dragon Soldier's temple-

Macaque: Yeah, I know!

Xiangliu smiled innocently and touched the door—only to get blasted back by the barrier.

Xiangliu: Ah, yes. I thought that might happen.

Macaque: Ugh! Only the Dragon Soldier can get through the magical barries. But also me. Because I’m the Soldier of the Dragon!

The two entered, unaware of the golden monkey tailing them.

Macaque: Sooo, what do you think we should be looking for? Like a magic crossbow? Maybe a cannon? Or a—

Xiangliu: A boss.

Macaque blinked.

Macaque: …Come again?

Xiangliu groaned and started explaining.

Xiangliu: The dumpling looks to be more of a Guang Pong Ciao, meaning it is potentially filled with some kind of delicious soup. Simply blasting it won't do.

Macaque: And devos is gonna help?

Xiangliu: Legend says the Dragon Soldier sought help Guanyin to defeat a demon, I don't remember of the name. She used a vase that contained pure water enough flood a whole mountain range. It seems logical we should use that suck up the soup and save the world from third degree burns.

Macaque thinked for a moment.

It actually sounded logical to him so he agreed.

Macaque: Good enough to me. We can probably find that with all Dragon Soldier's other junk behind this giant door that I've never been noticed before.

Macaque pushed it open and began searching among Dragon Soldier’s artifacts. Xiangliu inspected carefully while Macaque dug through piles like a raccoon.

While Macaque was trying to find the vase, he saw the Golden Demon. And tyen Jin attacked.

The mirror that revealed evil rolled away as they fought.

Macaque: YOU LITTLE—!

Jin tried to grab the mirror with sticky poison strings, but Macaque blocked with his spear—only to be struck in the stomach and thrown back. A pile of treasure crashed over both of them.

Macaque managed to crawl out, noticing Xiangliu frantically searching.

Xiangliu: Liu’er! I can’t find the vase!

Macaque: That chest is full of them!

Xiangliu: Why didn’t you do that sooner?!

Macaque: Because I forgot I could do that, okay?!

Jin lunged again, venom whipping through the air. Macaque tried to block but saw it heading toward Xiangliu—he pushed him aside. They both went flying.

Xiangliu glared at the wall of vases.

Meanwhile, Jin pinned Macaque against the wall, tightening his grip.

Jin: I can smell your fear, boy.

Macaque: It’s my 2 in 1 shampoo! …Or maybe my conditioner… or the hair mask…

Jin pushed harder—Macaque’s spear flew, embedding itself near Xiangliu.

Xiangliu picked up a black-and-orange staff shaped like a serpent—then changed his mind and grabbed a massive sword instead.

Xiangliu: Yeah, I think I can make this work.

As Jin pushed the boy far, he was smirking.

Jin: Time’s running out, little reptile.

Macaque: If we don’t stop that dumpling, you die too, right?!

Jin froze, then was blasted back by an energy bolt. The shot came from Xiangliu.

Xiangliu: Hmph. Missed. But not twice. You okay, kid?!

Jin stood, surprisingly smiling.

Jin: You know... You've got a point. How about a truce? Just this one time.

Macaque & Xiangliu: WHAT?!

Macaque: What kind of villain are you?!

Jin: The kind who's got bigger plans than getting boiled to death by dumpling soup.

He bowed mockingly, snagged the mirror with his poison, then shot upward and disappeared.

Jin: Until next time, reptile boy.

Xiangliu sighed, rubbing his forehead.

Xiangliu: Damn demons…

Macaque: We make the best team ever!

He admired the sword.

Macaque: Thar thing’s awesome! We should use that thing to blast the dumpling into bits!

But Xiangliu threw it away and tried to find the vase.

Macaque: Oh yeah, right. Soup.

Xiangliu finally found the right vase and lifted it.

Xiangliu: Here it is. This is the one.

Macaque: Great. Then Leeegoo!

And with that, they took off toward the city.

---

Wukong was barely holding the dumpling in the air with his powers while Tong Bei watched in worry.

Macaque: Guys!

He and Xiangliu crash-landed spectacularly. Tong Bei turned immediately.

Tong Bei: Did you find anything to destroy it?! Wukong can’t hold it much longer!

Macaque: Yeah! I mean… I think so.

They shared an uncertain glance, then raised the vase dramatically.

Macaque: Alright Xiangliu, the vase!

Wukong saw it and exploded with frustration.

Wukong: A VASE?! Why didn't you get some magic crossbow or a cannon or—ugh!

He went back to holding the dumpling.

Macaque & Xiangliu: Well, the dumpling looks like Guang Pong Ciao.

They blinked at each other, then burst out laughing and hugged.

Tong Bei stared. Wukong growled.

Wukong: Uh, guys? Are you forgetting something?!

Macaque and Xiangliu used the vase’s power to absorb the dumpling—and it worked.

As the last of it vanished, the sky returned to normal.

Wukong: So… did it wo—

The vase suddenly exploded, coating everything in dumpling pieces.

Macaque: Sometimes, there’s just nothing more you can do.

Xiangliu: We should have probably grabbed a few more vases.

Macaque: Yeah… probably.

---

Meanwhile, the Scorpion Queen and her crew were examining a robot in the sewers.

A shadowy voice echoed behind them. They turned toward the darkness.

Jin: My Queen~

Jin emerged, grinning smugly.

Scorpion Queen: Well, did you get it?

He knelt before her, offering the mirror.

Jin: One Demon Revealing Mirror.

He smirked at Yin—but when he glanced at the mirror’s reflection, for a moment he saw her as a snake goddess surrounded by immense power. Then it was gone.

Nuwa: May I?

Nuwa took the mirror and hurled it into the furnace filled with blinding white liquid.

Chapter Text

Macaque and Sha Shou were lounging on the Chi Jiao boat, enjoying themselves.

Macaque: Ah, Sha Shou! Such cute lazy monkey. You ain’t got a trouble in the world, do you?

Suddenly, Chi Jiao’s powerful arrival made the two of them fall off their lounge chairs.

Chi Jiao: Alright, Macaque. It’s time I teach you most important lesson of them all. Let’s do... Coffee!

Macaque: RİGHT!

As Macaque got up to start preparing the coffee, Chi Jiao began giving instructions.

Chi Jiao: Follow my directions exactly, and you’re in for the the best sleepy time coffee you’ve ever had

Macaque first turned on the stove.

Chi Jiao: Step 1: Get your water humming to a 171°

The child placed the coffee on the stove and walked away, not noticing it catching fire.

Chi Jiao: Step 2 and this is very important: Add JUST a pinch of my special sleepy time coffee essence.

However, Macaque dumped all the coffee essence into the drink instead of just one pinch. He also added something from his pocket.

Chi Jiao, unaware, just held out the cup.

Chi Jiao: Step 3: Serving your cutest favoritest coffee mug and enjoy. Thanks, kiddo.

Chi Jiao took a sip with a relaxed smile.

Chi Jiao: Oh, yeah. You did had just a pinch, right?

But before Macaque could respond, he collapsed to the ground and fell asleep.

Macaque was surprised.

Macaque: Huh? What's that, Chi Jiao?

Chi Jiao didn’t respond and remained asleep. Later, Macaque thought it might be for another reason and smiled, placing Sha Shou on him.

Macaque: Ah, big monkey. You must have tuckered yourself out. I’m going to keep you safe. Nothing bad's going happen. Not on my watch! Maybe just a little…

Suddenly, a green portal opened above them, and a box shot out from Chi Jiao, landing on the floor before the portal closed.

Sha Shou looked at the box in surprise, while Macaque was excited like a child, his eyes sparkling. The little dragons in his eyes reflected the same excitement.

Macaque: Woah! A super special package from Dragon Soldier?! Oooh, today just got a whole lot more interesting!

Macaque grabbed a lid opener next to the box.

But it didn’t work; it even stabbed like a sword.

Macaque: Got!.. To open! Ugh!!

Finally, the lid opened, revealing a note.

Macaque: What the-?

When he saw his own name on it, he smiled and took the paper.

Macaque: “For Liu’er Mihou." Hey, that’s me!

Seeing his own name made him grin, he kept reading the letter.

Macaque: "Dear Mihou, as you know, I'm super busy on vacation. I've got a special delivery but I won't be able to get to it for a while. You must not open it no matter what, it's bad news. I know you're a good boy and won't open it. But I know what you can do when you get really curious, so I've also sent you a training blindfold. You must wear this blindfold all day. Only when you really learn to listen can you can take it off. And another lesson: sometimes you shouldn't trust those closest to you even if your eyes are wide open."

Macaque looked at the purple and green bandana he was holding with shining eyes and then put it on his face.

Macaque: My next power! Super hearing!

He chuckled proudly and posed with his sword held backwards.

Macaque: I can hear everything!

“WHYYYYY?!”

Macaque’s excited speech was cut off when he heard a familiar voice. He immediately stood up.

Macaque: That sounded like someone's in trouble. I better go help!

The child leaped up with his sword, accidentally opening the chained box.

Sha Shou looked at the turnip kids emerging from the box and growled.

One of the turnip kids started playing with Chi Jiao’s fur.

Sha Shou gestured to stop, but the kid’s expression scared him.

More turnip kids appeared, taking Chi Jiao away.

Sha Shou tried to stop them, but he was left outside.

---

Macaque ran toward his lover after hearing another “WHYYYY?!”

Macaque: Wukong, what's going on?

Wukong jumped on top of his lover, pointing to the game that was being taken away.

Wukong: Mihou! You need to stop this!

Tong Bei turned angrily to the child who had just arrived, spinning him around twice to face him.

Tong Bei: Liu’er! Where have you been?! This really is the final straw, Liu’er.

Macaque struggled to find a path while the white monkey kept scolding him.

Tong Bei: Are you deaf, or did you choose not to listen to me when I told you to mop the floor?

When he yelled at the child, Macaque was quite scared, gripping his sword tighter.

Tong Bei: WOULD YOU STOP SCROLLİNG AROUND AND TAKE THAT BLINDFOLD OFF?! I want to look you in the eye when I'm scolding you.

Macaque tried to remove it, but it wouldn’t come off.

Macaque: I’m trying it, it won’t come off.

Tong Bei shrugged.

Tong Bei: Classic Liu’er. Can’t follow basic instructions and screws around all day. This is why exactly I'm getting rid of this arcade machine away.

Macaque and Wukong cried, pleading. Macaque clung to Tong Bei like a baby dragon.

Macaque: NOOO! NOT MY BEAUTİFUL FIGHTİNG AVATAR MACHİNE!!

Wukong: WHAT?! NO! IT CAN’T HAPPEN!

Wukong and Macaque: WHY TONG BEİ?! WHY?!..

Macaque and Wukong cried loudly as Tong Bei sighed and placed a spicy tea in front of Macaque.

Tong Bei: I’ve seen it all before. Games suck up the best years of your life… until you left the hollow, bitter old monkey running a cheap pastry shop is left behind.

Lost in thought, Tong Bei was interrupted by a delivery woman.

Delivery Woman: Uh, Monkey Man? Where do you want the table?

Tong Bei frowned.

Tong Bei: Table? What table?

Woman pointed to a spot.

Delivery Woman: Well, the order says you wanted to swap the Dragon Avatar cabinet with the ping pong table. So...

Tong Bei inspected the table in awe.

Tong Bei: Ping pong table? Smooth line, crissmate… oh I bet the bounce on this baby is-

He suddenly stepped back.

Tong Bei: NO! I didn’t order this!! Doesn't anyone listen?!

The delivery woman shrugged, slightly disappointed.

Delivery Woman: Hey, I’m just doing my job, man. Do you gotta sign this or-

Without thinking, blindfolded Macaque signed the papers.

Macaque: Got it!

Tong Bei pulled the child aside, surprised.

Tong Bei: Liu’er, what are you doing?!

The child handed him a paddle.

Macaque: Trust me, Tong Bei. I super hear what you're sayijg. You need me to work hard so that you can play hard!

Tong Bei looked worried. Macaque was smiling, thinking he did something good.

Tong Bei: No... Not ping pong… This isn’t good… I don't really play too hard... Listen, as long as this table is here… I won't stop. I can’t stop!

But Macaque and Wukong had already hopped on the motorcycle, with Wukong sitting him in the driver’s seat.

Macaque: Uh, okay Tong Bei, have fun! Super-hearing delivery lizard, go!

But when Macaque hit the pole, Wukong took over the steering wheel.

Wukong: Uh, Mihou? Let me help.

Macaque: I got it. I got it. I got it.

And with that, they left, leaving Tong Bei alone with the arcade machine.

Tong Bei: Maybe just one little bounce? I mean can't hurt…

---

The turnip kids were wreaking havoc in the room. If it were me, I’d sue.

Some sat on Chi Jiao, others were messing with things.

Sha Shou watched from the window, first avoiding the weight falling on him, then noticing the bedtime coffee essences inside.

He saw how it affected Chi Jiao.

If he did the same to the turnip kids…

As Sha Shou thought, he noticed the robot outside. An idea formed in the monkey’s mind, and he grinned wickedly. It was time to show why he was called the Assassin.

---

Tong Bei kept bouncing the ball against the wall with a serious look.

He was intensely focused. How could he do that with one hand behind his back? I thought he needed balance…

He was so focused that he barely noticed Xiangliu behind him.

Xiangliu: Hello, Bei. Uhhh, Bei? Bei!

The monkey snapped out of it, caught the ball with his hand, and turned to Xiangliu. When Xiangliu realized Tong Bei meant business, he panicked.

Tong Bei: Didn’t anyone ever tell you not to sneak up on people like that? Say, how about a game, huh?

Xiangliu hesitated, then grabbed a nearby traffic sign.

Xiangliu: Uhh… should you be playing this game? You know how you get uh...

Tong Bei smiled cutely.

Tong Bei: Free pastries for life if you beat me~

At first skeptical, Xiangliu was drawn by the promise of endless pastries.

Xiangliu: You're on!

As Tong Bei’s eyes darkened and his aura glowed, Xiangliu immediately regretted his words. He whispered all the prayers he could think of.

---

All the turnip kids gathered, holding corn, watching the “Dragon Soldier” movie.

Suddenly, the ground shook, drawing everyone’s attention. At first, there was no one, but then Sha Shou burst in wearing a robot costume, grinning wickedly. He formed a weapon with his hands and pressed the button to fire the sleep coffee.

The coffee hit all the turnip kids, putting them to sleep, while Chi Jiao slowly started waking up.

Chi Jiao: Ugh… What’s happening?

But when the coffee hit him too, the monkey fell asleep again.

Sha Shou sighed in relief as the last turnip kid fell asleep.

---

Wukong and Macaque were riding on the motorcycle.

Macaque still looked confident, pretending to drive, while Wukong was actually holding the steering wheel.

Macaque: I think my super hearing is getting better! I only crashed three times!

Wukong smiled tensely at his lover and started gathering his now loose hair into a ponytail. If Macaque realized all the effort he spent on his hair for two hours had been ruined, he wouldn’t just curse his dad, but the whole family tree.

Wukong: Yeah, amazing.

Macaque: Woohoo! Yeah, I did awesome. That's got to show the blindfold I'm a good listener.

He tried to take off the blindfold, but it was futile. It seemed stuck, and whenever he tried, a slight electric shock would run through him.

Macaque: Agh! Why won’t this come off!? Agh!

Wukong intervened, calm but observant.

Wukong: Umm… Well, didn’t Dragon Soldier say this blindfold won’t come off until—?

Macaque: I learned to truly a listen, yeah!

While trying to remove the blindfold, he also destabilized the motorcycle. He hadn’t told Wukong, but… he was afraid of the dark.

Macaque: But I listen great!

Suddenly, the motorcycle crashed into a pole and was completely destroyed. When Wukong realized it was too dangerous to ride, he held his lover’s hand and started walking.

Wukong: Alright alright, if I know the Dragon Soldier—which I don’t— her lesson here isn’t going to be as simple as just hearing. Uhh... It's some sort of twist. Maybe it’s about listening good, you know?

Macaque thoughtfully held his chin but still didn’t get it. He just wanted to get rid of the blindfold.

Macaque: Isn’t that the same thing?

Suddenly, the sky turned an ominous pale yellow, and the two stopped walking.

Wukong: Huh?

Everything was a mess. People seemed to be in pain.

At the top of a pile in the middle, Tong Bei stood with a sinister smile.

Wukong: What the hell is going on?!

But Macaque kept walking, unaware he was stepping on people.

Macaque: Wukong! I don’t remember the ground being so squishy.

When a person was thrown into Macaque and the two fell, Wukong looked at his lover without surprise, then turned worriedly to Tong Bei.

Wukong: Tong! What happened?

Tong Bei seemed possessed, still carrying himself with a sinister air.

Tong Bei: I’m the Master of Ping! The Emperor of Paul!

The monkey laughed wickedly as Xiangliu emerged from the pile, keeping Macaque and Wukong close protectively.

Xiangliu: Run while you can! There's hunger for the win insatiable.

But Macaque stepped forward confidently. After everything, where did this confidence come from?

Macaque: Tong Bei! You have to stop! People are getting hurt!

But the monkey didn’t care. Xiangliu even threw a slipper at Macaque.

Tong Bei: Stop? I told you: as long as this table is here, I’ll never stop!

Xiangliu turned to the couple in panic.

Xiangliu: What are we gonna do?! He won’t miss the reason!

Wukong smirked, glancing sideways at his still-blindfolded lover.

Wukong: Yeah, There's a bit of that going around.

Macaque: Listening…

He murmured thoughtfully. He remembered why he got punished in the dark room. The principal would put him there for not listening. Murmuring, he picked up the racket lying on the ground.

Macaque: Then there’s only one thing we could do. Tong Bei… I challenge you!

Tong Bei found this amusing.

Tong Bei: You? Ooh! If you step up to me, you’ll lose, Liu’er!

Tong Bei hit the ball very hard; it almost left a mark on Macaque’s hair.

Macaque: Yep, you know, this might actually  be the one scenario where not being able to see puts me at a bit of disadvantage

Wukong closed his eyes, while Xiangliu hit his head in frustration.

Xiangliu: Liu’er… you’re idiot.

Tong Bei prepared to play again. Just when Macaque felt hopeless, he remembered all the lessons about listening and feeling.

Tong Bei: That was just a warning shot. This is the real deal!

Macaque caught the ball aimed at his stomach just in time with the racket, though it was very difficult.

Wukong: Mihou!

While holding the ball, Macaque also tried to bring the monkey back to his senses.

Macaque: Tong Bei! Stop! Why won’t you listen to me?!

At that moment, Macaque found himself in a green void. He remembered what his friends and that stupid principal had said.

Wukong: You have to truly learn to listen.

Principal: Listening isn’t just about hearing where the threat comes from. Sometimes even a small word can help you defeat your enemy.

Xiangliu: There's hunger for the win insatiable.

Tong Bei: I won’t stop! I can’t stop! I'll never stop!

When Macaque finally understood what real listening meant, he was breathless.

Macaque: That's what Dragon Soldier meant! Not just super hearing, act what people are saying. I have to listen!

Recalling a memory about himself and Tong Bei, Macaque grabbed the ball and threw it at the monkey.

Wukong noticed a change in the blindfold and shouted with joy. The blindfold glowed with flames, but it didn’t harm Macaque.

Wukong: Mihou! Your blindfold! It’s losining!

The blindfold began to shine emerald and purple as Macaque turned to his lover with a smile.

Macaque: I get it now, Wukong. Tong Bei is just like me, he doesn't listening. But I’ll get through him.

Tong Bei stopped the approaching ball with a single racket swing.

Tong Bei: Are you going to keep talking, or are you ready to end this?

Then Tong Bei hit the ball again. But this time, Macaque stood confidently.

Macaque: No, Tong Bei. I’m ready to listen.

The two then began hitting the ball fiercely back and forth, sending shock after shock, force after force.

Macaque: Is that all you got? I thought you were going to play hard, old man!

Macaque jumped forward, appearing next to Tong Bei. Back to back, he moved left, then returned to his original spot.

Macaque: Come on, Tong Bei!

Tong Bei smirked, preparing to strike, when Macaque’s eyes glowed emerald and the fabric disappeared.

“As long as this table is here, I’ll never stop!"

Macaque: I hear you, Tong Bei!

The monkey watched in shock as Macaque hit the ball, smashing the table into pieces.

Tong Bei: No!

When everything returned to normal, Tong Bei sat in front of his ruined shop, looking regretful.

Tong Bei: No… İt happened again…

Macaque approached the shopkeeper to comfort him.

Macaque: Tong Bei! I’m so sorry… should’ve listened… This is all my fault…

Tong Bei shook his head, looking at the broken racket in his hand.

Tong Bei: No, Liu’er. That game did…

He then smiled at the child.

Tong Bei: Thank you.

Wukong stepped in and even stroked Tong Bei’s hair.

Wukong: You really listened to what he needed.

Meanwhile, Xiangliu calmly handled the fallen sign.

Xiangliu: I'm not sure who taught you guys pingpong.

Despite the fallen sign, the demon stayed composed.

Xiangliu: But that’s not it. You did really a number on this street. Should we uhh… clean it up?

Macaque immediately used an excuse.

Macaque: Or maybe we should go check on Chi Jiao.

Everyone agreed to the excuse.

Wukong, Tong Bei, and Xiangliu: Yeah, yeah.

Xiangliu: I wasn’t going to help anyway. But okay.

---

Sha Shou struggled to close the box and finally collapsed to the ground.

When the monkey collapsed on top of the box, Chi Jiao slowly started waking up.

Rubbing his eyes, he had no idea about the glasses and mustache drawn on his face.

Chi Jiao: Huh? What happened?

When the team entered, Tong Bei hit the snake demon’s arm with his shoulder.

Tong Bei: Heh. Looks like I’m not the only one played too hard, huh Xiangliu?

Xiangliu: Too soon.

Wukong looked at Sha Shou cutely and began petting him aggressively.

Wukong: Aww, Sha Shou! You have a good lazy day? Such a lazy monkey.

The monkey tried wearily to clean himself up while Wukong chuckled. Then, letting the monkey relax, Sha Shou took a breath, as Macaque peeked into the box and smiled.

Macaque: Hey, I forgot about this thing! Dragon Soldier said not to open it but… one little peek couldn't hurt—

But Sha Shou immediately covered his mouth and clawed him.

Macaque: Sheesh! Okay than! I heard you loud and clear… Thanks, Sha Shou.

Then he took the cup holder in his hand.

Macaque: Alright! Who wants some coffee?

Everyone raised their hands while Sha Shou collapsed onto the chest. But Macaque gave him a reward kiss on the cheek. Wukong, jealous, accidentally broke the cup in his hand.

Chapter Text

Macaque had arrived at a deserted street, preparing to deliver the pastries on his motorcycle. Today, he was trying out a new style. He was still wearing his torn red cardigan, but this time he had chosen to wear a black vest over it, along with white pants. Also, instead of tying his hair from the bottom as usual, he opted to tie it from the top.

He was unaware of the bikers approaching him.

Listening to music in his ears while heading for the delivery, one of the bikers passed sharply by his side.

When Macaque saw the spider emblem on them, he realized it was one of the couriers who had recently been bothering him about deliveries.

Rolling his eyes in frustration, he thought he didn’t have time to deal with this right now. He had put extra care into his hair today. Not just his hair, actually.

But when he turned around, he saw even more.

Macaque: "Oh, I really don’t have time for this—"

He then drew his blade, ready to fight.

---

In the shop, most of Macaque’s body was covered in bruises. There was still dried blood on his mouth, and his arm had been dislocated, though fortunately Xiangliu had managed to put it back in place.

Macaque: Oh, I’ve had it up to here with those Speedy Spider delivery brickheads! They’ve been sabotaging me all week!

Xiangliu, having let go of Macaque’s arm, continued eating pastries while listening to them, and Tong Bei finished bandaging him, letting out a sigh of disappointment.

Tong Bei: I've had it with those punks trying to ruin our business while they sell that disgusting microwave junk. Convenience can never replace a traditional home-cooked family recipe.

Tong Bei looked happily at the picture of the pastries he had made. When memories came to mind, he put the picture down.

Macaque’s talking had distracted him anyway.

Macaque: Yeah, but they do it quicker.

When Macaque noticed his boss giving him a sidelong glance, he smiled guiltily.

Macaque: All I’m saying is… maybe you could afford to pick up the pace?

But Tong Bei didn’t agree.

Tong Bei: Pick up the pace? You’re the one delivery diver, you pick up the pace!

Macaque felt an instant shame and fear, almost wanting to hide under the chair.

Tong Bei: Every pastry from Tong Bei’s Pastry Shop is completely handmade with love and care. It’s what our customers have come to expect.

At that moment, Xiangliu smirked and continued eating his pastry while his snakes combed Macaque’s hair.

Xiangliu: Don’t worry about me, Bei. I’m a loyal customer.

Tong Bei glanced at the impish creature smiling innocently.

Tong Bei: More like a loyal freeloader.

Xiangliu looked at the monkey, offended, and his breath caught.

Just as he was about to say something, Macaque found the courage to climb onto the table. The snakes hissed.

Macaque: I’m telling you, Tong Bei! If something doesn't change, we’re going to be run out of business!

Tong Bei got angry again.

Tong Bei: Ugh! You two don't get it. I poured my heart into this place. From the pots to the utensils. Even my ancestors antique windows!

Suddenly, a brick was thrown from outside, breaking the window and falling to the floor, with a piece of paper on it.

Tong Bei picked up the brick, and the trio curiously looked at the paper. Xiangliu then read it aloud.

Xiangliu: Hmm… Attention: Tong Bei’s Pastries. Prepare for your worst nightmare. We challenge you to a food wars to determine which restaurant is truly reigns supreme. Signed: Speedy Spider.

Macaque didn’t understand, innocently turning to his boss and tugging on his apron.

Macaque: So... Someone going to tell me what the donk Food Wars is?

Tong Bei explained with unprecedented seriousness.

Tong Bei: Food Wars. The ultimate arena for chefs duke it out, where the victors are hailed supreme above all others. Speedy Spider, I accept your challenge!

---

Host: Welcome one and all to Food Wars!

The venue was crowded. It seemed like nearly the whole city was there.

Some wore pastry-themed outfits, while others wore spider-themed ones.

Host: Today, two teams will compete in the three rounds of food combat in order to be crowned Supreme Restaurant Champion.

Macaque looked around in awe at first, but then struck a serious pose next to his father.

Host: Introducing first for Tong Bei’s Pastry Shop: Tong Bei and his assistant, Macaque!

Speedy Spider stormed onto the stage, kicking up dust. Macaque was surprised when he saw who they were.

Host: And their opponents: Speedy Spider Convenince Mart! And it's owners: These guys!

Syntax and Hunstman grinned. The green-haired spider laughed, while Hunstman grinned even wider.

Hunstman: Remember us, Soldier of the Dragon? We are your worst enemies. Hunstman!

Syntax: And Syntax!

Syntax & Hunstman: The Spider Demon Brothers!

Macaque didn’t recognize them—or rather, he pretended not to. These guys had ruined a lot for him.

Macaque: I'm sorry… who—

Tong Bei intervened, pulling Macaque behind him protectively by the nape of his neck. Despite his short height, he could easily lift Macaque.

Tong Bei: I don’t even know you guys! What do ya' got against my restaurant?

Syntax crossed his arms and began to explain.

Syntax: So here's the plan, right? We're figure if we put your pastry shop out of business, then boy is out of a job.

Hunstman: And if he's out of a job, he'll starve, which will make him weak and then—

Syntax & Hunstman: And then, we'll finally be able destroy him!

The two spider demons laughed wickedly, while Tong Bei and Macaque shot them deadly glares. First, Tong Bei and Xiangliu wouldn’t allow it. Second, Wukong was wealthy.

Host: It is now time for Round 1!

Macaque and the other couriers mounted their vehicles.

Host: The competitors will have to gather all the ingredients they need and race from the Food Wars Ultimate Pantry to their respective kitchens at the center of the coutyard.

Macaque and Tong Bei exchanged a glance and both nodded.

Host: In 3… 2… 1!

With the blaring of the alarm, the race began. Tong Bei swiftly grabbed ingredients and tossed them.

Tong Bei: Liu’er, catch!

Macaque was breathless at the incoming ingredients.

Macaque: Tong Bei, slow down!

While Macaque got buried under a pile of food, Hunstman laughed—but it was clear he had no idea what to do.

Hunstman: Umm, Syntax… I'm gonna be honest with you, I have no idea what any of this stuff is.

Syntax, however, continued to smirk confidently.

Syntax: Oh, don’t worry about that.

They pulled stale, cheap biscuits from their belts and laughed.

Hunstman: You sly dog!

Then they tossed the package into the courier’s box. Macaque drove first, followed by the other.

So far, Macaque seemed to be driving well. Occasionally, a courier tried to sabotage him, but things were going smoothly for now.

Macaque:  I really am the greatest racer ever—

But when he noticed the others coming from behind, the kid panicked.

As the couriers collided with him, all of Macaque’s ingredients spilled.

He tried to get up again, but groaned in pain as the couriers crushed him.

Tong Bei: LIU’ER!

Macaque showed the rescued vegetables to Tong Bei, trying to show that he had succeeded at least a little.

The two spiders laughed, while Tong Bei glared at them hostilely.

Host: Round 1 goes to Speedy Spider. In Round 2, competitors proves to the test in a cook-off with the winner being chosen by a panel of curiously selected judges.

Macaque and Tong Bei busied themselves with pastries, while Syntax and Hunstman had already plated cheap dumplings.

Macaque grabbed three trays of pastries, turning back to the monkey.

Macaque: We gotta move!

Tong Bei remained calm, preparing the dough.

Tong Bei: I told you, Liu’er, good cooking takes time.

After tasting the meat, he realized something was missing.

Tong Bei: Just need to add one more ingredient, that’s all.

Meanwhile, Hunstman secretly grabbed a hot sauce container and, pushed by Syntax, accidentally dropped it into the meat.

Syntax: Oops. Clumsy us.

The two spiders laughed and walked away, while Macaque struggled to control his anger.

Macaque: I wish I could break their bones right now…

Just as he turned anxiously to his boss, Tong Bei’s attitude surprised him.

Tong Bei: That was… That was actually what was missing!

Tong Bei removed the hot sauce from the meat and quickly cooked and prepared the pastries.

Tong Bei: Liu’er, go!

Then the gong sounded.

Host: And that's the timer! Both competitors must now present their culinary creations to our panel of judges. Introducing our first judge… Yang Shu!

Yang Shu gracefully sat down, which surprised Macaque.

Macaque: Ah, you've come to tussle with the champ?

Yang Shu: Oh, please. Like I have energy to waste on you, Lizard Boy. I'm here to settle a debt and that's all.

Syntax and Hunstman smiled as Yang Shu massaged his head as if he had a headache.

Yang Shu: Knew I shouldn't have made that blood-oath.

Then the chair next to Yang Shu lit up.

Host: Judge number 2 is none other than Dragon Soldier!

Macaque turned to the second chair joyfully.

Macaque: Dragon Soldier!

Mei: I’m Dragon Soldier. I fully endorse this product or sports event.

When everyone, including Yang Shu, realized he was fake, the host called the third juror.

Host: And Judge Number 3, and apparently a fan favorite: This guy!

Suddenly, Xiangliu appeared, giving a greeting, with a cold but mocking smile.

Xiangliu: Thanks for having me! Great to be here!

Macaque brightened up seeing someone familiar. He switched to sycophant mode. That bastard, that…

Macaque: You’re amazing, Xiangliu! Super Demon Xiangliu!

But noticing Tong Bei’s fear, he turned anxiously to him.

Macaque: Eeeeee Tong Bei? Is something wrong?

But Tong Bei was looking at the snake demon with a deadly glare of fear.

When Macaque realized what it was, his anxiety vanished. Fathers would either love or fight each other that evening.

Macaque: Ooh! You’re probably worried he's going to vote against you as form of revenge cuz you always treat him like garbage all the time, right? Is that it—

Tong Bei suddenly shushed the kid.

Tong Bei: Would you shush?!

Host: First up, is Speedy Spider with what looks like an assorment of mushy dim sum filled with-

Suddenly, Hunstman interrupted.

Hunstman: Mystery meat.

Syntax: With a side of deep-fried spring rolls topped with whatever sauce was in this packet. It's edible... enough.

The jurors tasted the broken dumplings, even if with skepticism.

Yang Shu: I’ll take your word for it.

But when they ate, Yang Shu and Xiangliu felt like vomiting.

Cardboard Mei, however… was just a cardboard.

Mei: Thank you for your interest in Dragon Soldier and Dragon Soldier branded items.

After the vomiting session, it was Macaque and Tong Bei’s turn.

Host: The judge's aren't giving anything away. Now, onto Tong Bei’s pastries with what looks like...

Tong Bei lifted the lid, revealing long, monkey-shaped pastries.

Tong Bei: Family recipe Chinese pastries.

Xiangliu took a piece with utmost seriousness and put it in his mouth, then murmured thoughtfully.

Yang Shu eyed the pastries suspiciously.

Once he tasted it, an emotional explosion surged inside him. It felt like he had never eaten such a pastry in his life; even his eyes watered.

But he quickly returned to his serious demeanor.

Yang Shu: There's no way I'm voting for your restaurant. My vote's for Speedy Spider.

Macaque’s eyes twitched as Tong Bei held him back to prevent him from attacking.

But when Xiangliu spoke, Macaque calmed down and everyone turned to him.

Xiangliu: Well, well, well... I’ve been waiting a long time to say this to you, Bei… My vote goes to...

Suddenly, the pastry shop emblem lit up on the demon’s chest.

Xiangliu: Tong Bei’s Pastries! Of course it does! His food is a work of genius!

Hunstman and Syntax objected.

Hunstman: Outrageus libel!

Syntax: You are kidding?!

Other than that, Macaque and Tong Beni sighed in relief.

Host: That's one vote for Speedy Spider and one vote for Tong Bei's! It all comes down to judge number 3!

Cardboard Dragon Soldier repeated the same thing, when suddenly the cardboard tore and fell onto the pastries.

Everyone looked at the cardboard in shock.

Syntax: Wait, what?

Macaque suddenly grinned, coming up with a plan, and pointed at the cardboard.

Macaque: He endorsed Tong Bei's! He endorsed it!

With the pastry emblem appearing where the cardboard fell, the winner was clear.

Host: Winner of Round 2: Tong Bei’s Pastries!

The two cheered, while the spider demons protested.

When the score was tied, Hunstman seemed to have another idea and turned to their rivals.

Hunstman: Alright Tong Bei, what we up the ante a bit? Let’s make this final contest sudden death!

Syntax: Yeah, loser has to close their restaurant forever!

Tong Bei angrily turned to the two spiders.

Tong Bei: Don't gotta ask us twice. We’ll mop the floor with you dorks!

Suddenly, the host’s voice cut through, easing the tension.

Host: Now, the final competition! Mascot Combat!

Tong Bei and Macaque looked confusedly at the board.

Tong Bei: Wait, what?

Macaque: Uh, say what now? Mascot Fight? What the—

The spider demons chuckled wickedly, then Syntax pressed a button on the controller.

A robot appeared on stage, and father and son stared anxiously at the suddenly appearing machine. Macaque struggled to contain himself.

Macaque: Yeah, cool. Nice death machine! That ain't got nothing on our...

Seeing their vehicle destroyed, their hopes seemed lost.

Macaque: Okay, so, we might have a little problem.

Tong Bei: I can't believe it. I dedicated my life to that shop but now I'm gonna lose it to a couple of Demons because I was too arrogant to stand down.

Tong Bei began to cry, crouching to his knees. Memories flashed through his mind: the classic-style cabinets painted by Macaque, the chairs and sofas made with Xiangliu, Macaque’s first day at work, and…

Tong Bei: You were right, Liu'er. No one cares about tradition or centuries-old recipes. They're being forgotten and replaced by instant microwavable junk.

Macaque immediately cut in, drawing his sword. Standing like a true soldier.

Macaque: No way! I may not understand your irrational love for pastries, or working hard, or being angry all the time, but you are always there when I need you. So it's time for me to return the favor, because Tong Bei's Pastries are pastries worth fighting for!

Tong Bei looked proudly at the kid, as Macaque suddenly flung both her and himself into the air, pointing his sword upward.

Macaque & Tong Bei: Here comes... Dragon Monkey!

They struck their destroyed vehicle with the sword, turning it into armor for the dragon avatar.

The spider brothers were unaware of this.

Hunstman: You seen the look on their faces when we unveiled our Spider Bot?

Syntax: Yeah, I think we got this one in the—

When Macaque and Tong Bei’s bots appeared before them, the pair fell silent.

The robot froze mid-attack, while the duo posed coolly above it.

Macaque: Your pathetic city food control ends here. Get ready to head home, scum.

Tong Bei smirked wickedly like Macaque and raised his middle finger. Xiangliu joined them.

Xiangliu: No amount of convenience will ever win the hearts of us, food lovers!

Tong Bei joyfully turned to the demon below.

Tong Bei: XIANGLIU!

Xiangliu: I was never gonna vote against you, old friend!

Macaque: What old friend?!

As the spider demons spoke, the team turned to them.

Syntax: Oh, yeah!

Hunstman: Bring it on, little imps!

Spider couriers appeared around them, readying themselves.

Tong Bei: Alright then, Liu’er, what do you say you and me show these two what being a real chef is all about?!

Hunstman: Well, go on then, lads! Get 'em!

Macaque’s avatar fought with the couriers, while Yang Shu sighed.

Yang Shu: I knew I shouldn't have come back this season.

Meanwhile, a black-haired spider demon with green and purple streaks in her hair, wearing an intern outfit, noticed the fight.

Female Spider: Hang on! We ain't got the budget for this!

She ended the fight in a single move, catching her notebook midair and showing it to the twin spiders.

Syntax: Oi, what's all this, then?

Female Spider: Well, you spent all of your profits on that Spider Mech. We ain't got enough money to pay our drivers! Speedy Spider is bankrupt.

Hunstman and Syntax took the notebook in shock.

Hunstman: What?! Give me that!

Looking at the notebook, Syntax seemed to understand.

Syntax: Oh, yeah. Must have been the hydraulics, yeah? I told you that.

The couriers glared deadly at their bosses.

Courier: We’re not getting paid?

Hunstman and Syntax tried to brush it off.

Hunstman: Okay, yeah, so traditionally, people expect money when they do work.

Syntax: But it's like the Monkey Man said: No one cares about traditions anymore, right?

The couriers then surrounded them and began attacking the spiders.

While the spider demons fought the couriers, Tong Bei covered Macaque’s eyes and smiled in relief. Xiangliu handed Macaque a pudding.

There was no need to worry about the shop anymore.

---

In the shop, Macaque was testing his pastry-making skills. His face was covered in flour, but he didn’t mind.

Macaque: Order up! I don't know if I got the sauce right.

Tong Bei and Xiangliu each took a piece of pastry. Tong Bei smiled proudly at the kid.

Tong Bei: It's all right, Liu'er. You got plenty of time to learn.

Then, getting sentimental, he turned to the two.

Tong Bei: Hey, guys, thanks for having my back, back there.

They smiled.

Macaque: You know it.

Xiangliu: Always.

Suddenly, the warped cardboard-shaped Mei spoke.

Cardboard Mei: Believe in yourself. Even a smidge makes all the difference.

Macaque smiled and pointed at the cardboard.

Macaque: He-he kind of said the thing! She says that to me. She says that to me a lot.

The trio laughed in the shop, while Tong Bei looked at old pictures on the board, letting out a sigh and smiling wider.

The day he found Macaque, he had run away from the orphanage… luckily. That day, he had separated from Xiangliu because of a lost face. But two minutes later, Tong Bei found Macaque. Thanks to Macaque, Xiangliu agreed to stay… And perhaps, Macaque was an annoyingly clumsy miracle for Tong Bei.

Chapter Text

Mei was trying to escape from one of the places where the goddess was located.

But these traps were very difficult, and it felt like her bones were about to break.

Suddenly, Macaque appeared in front of her through astral projection, and she felt relieved.

She had finally solved the astral journey.

Macaque: Dragon Soldier! It worked!

Mei tried to act natural, but it was very difficult with one of the traps on her. “Where is the Acolyte when you need them anyway?!”

Mei: Hey, Mihou! So, you figured out astral projection, huh?

Macaque: Yeah, and I only had five nose bleeds. How’s your vacation? How are you?  It’s so good to see you! Any cool people around?! Or muscular?! OR EXTREMELY STRONG!?

But Mei couldn’t hold herself and got angry for a moment.

Mei: Now’s not the best time Mihou!

All of Macaque’s energy seemed to drain as he averted his gaze and rubbed the back of his neck.

Macaque: Okay, it’s just I hadn’t heard from you in a bit and— My...My training—

Mei: Uh, yeah. I’m gonna need you to keep working on your own in a little while. Remember, you can do it. Trust your instincts. I don't know, maybe work on shrinking your blade?

Macaque: Oh, you mean like this?

He giggled while shrinking his sword to a mini size and spinning it. He knew Mei had been able to do this in a year.

This completely flustered Mei.

Mei: Okay, smart guy. Shrink yourself then!

Macaque looked at his mentor, confused.

Macaque: Shrink myself? How the donk am I meant to learn that?

Mei: Ah, you’ll figure it out.

As the dragon woman was about to remove the trap, she bent her neck. At the same time, speaking was difficult.

Mei: Just think little. Oh! Uh, my masseuse is here. Gotta run!

As she escaped the trap, Macaque watched his disappearing mentor in confusion.

Macaque: Trust my instincts? Wait-

While Macaque’s hologram was crushed by the trap, Mei rolled toward the goddess’s painting.

Then she stood up, dusted herself off, and looked at the goddess in the painting.

Mei: So… what are you hiding?

Mei punched the painting, and a terrifying creature with a huge open mouth emerged and screamed fearfully.

---

Meanwhile, Nuwa’s eyes glowed white, as if she sensed it, but the Scorpion Queen remained calm when she tumbled from behind.

Scorpion Queen: I don’t know who taught you how to take revenge, but it ain't normally this boring. Can we hurry this along?

Her eyes flashed white and then went out, and she began speaking.

Nuwa: With time and patience, the mulberry leaf becomes a silk gown.

She also enlarged images of a sword, a staff, and a flower.

Nuwa: There are still three items we have yet to add to the furnace. Destiny cannot be hurried, My Queen.

Scorpion Queen: So, you keep saying. Well, my patience is growing thin, Miss Mystery. At least lighten up a little. Your creepy whisper business is getting on my nerves.

Nuwa just returned to her work, ignoring the scorpion demon.

---

Macaque was cleaning the shop and looked very tired. Meanwhile, Tong Bei was extremely worried because a very special guest would arrive today.

Tong Bei: Oh, come on Liu'er! This place needs to be spiking and spin. I got a very special guest come.

Suddenly, when they heard Xiangliu at the door, they turned to him.

Xiangliu: Did someone say free pastries for a special guest? Oh, fancy.

Tong Bei couldn’t resist and snapped at the snake demon.

Tong Bei: Feeder Xiangliu! There's only one guy eating for free today! And that's-

Xiangliu: Food Critic Nine-Headed Snake Yum Yum?

Then Xiangliu opened his computer and showed them his profile. He was wearing orange flame-shaped sunglasses, and his hair looked normal. All the snakes laughed cutely with excitement.

Tong Bei was shocked and scared by this, while Macaque was being sycophantic.

Macaque: Wow that's amazing! What a twist!

Macaque tried to touch the demon with his dirty hands, but Xiangliu noticed and moved aside. Macaque fell to the ground.

Xiangliu: Hmm...  Satisfied's need something to be desired.

Xiangliu closed his computer.

As a result, the two looked at each other like enemies.

Then Tong Bei sighed and turned to the boy.

Tong Bei: Now wash your hands!

Macaque nodded.

Macaque: YEAH, ON İT.

Then, as Macaque left, Xiangliu prepared the knife and fork set.

Xiangliu: So, what’s the first on the menu?

---

Macaque was washing his hands in the kitchen, muttering.

Macaque: "Oh, go wash your hands Liu'er. Look alive Liu'er. Learn to shrink yourself Mihou." Ugh, maybe if someone was here to teach me. "Oh You'll figure out bud. Just think little."

He didn’t notice, but his hands began glowing green.

Macaque: Like I could do this on my own.

Macaque finished washing his hands and went to the side counter to get a plate. But as soon as he left, green dust appeared and Macaque shrank.

Macaque: Wait, what?! Ahhh!

Macaque fell into the sink and after a painful landing, finally touched the floor. But instead of thinking where he was, he was happy that he could shrink.

Macaque: I did it! I littled myself! I am amazing—Oh?

When he finally realized where he was, he panicked.

Macaque: Oh no, no no no no no! The Scorpion Queen’s lair! How did I end up here, of all the lairs?! Come on!

Macaque’s voice echoed to where Scorpion Queen and Nuwa were.

Nuwa didn’t react, but Scorpion Queen was excited and happy that some action had finally arrived.

Scorpion Queen: Dragon Boy! Well, this day just got a little more interesting.

Nuwa: My Queen, perhaps—

But Scorpion Queen was ready to leave, refusing to listen.

Scorpion Queen: Sorry, can’t hear you over the sound of my rushing destiny! Okay bye sweetie!~

Scorpion Queen flew away.

Nuwa smiled cunningly and left, her eyes still glowing white.

---

Macaque stood in place, trembling with fear.

Macaque: It's finally going to happen! The scorpion's going to wrap me up and It's going eat me!

As he imagined it in fear, he tried to distract himself and calm down.

Macaque: Okay… okay. No, I am the Soldier of the Dragon. I'm not keep being terrified of scorpions for my whole life! I can do this! I can get out of here! I just need to be a big brave boy!

Macaque closed his eyes again and focused. Green smoke appeared around him, and he returned to his normal size.

When he noticed, he proudly grinned.

Macaque: Oh, I’m a big boy again!

Of course, it was a brief moment because the Scorpion Queen landed beside him.

Macaque clenched his fists in fear and looked at the scorpion.

Macaque: Ugh! Dang it, I’m still scared.

Scorpion Queen: Come back for more, have you?~

Scorpion Queen laughed and attacked Macaque.

Macaque screamed in fear and shrank again when the green smoke appeared.

The scorpion demon, realizing the boy was gone from where it had attacked, looked around in surprise.

Scorpion: Huh?! Where he is?!

Macaque used his blade to remove the weight on him and grinned when he realized he had shrunk.

Macaque: Haha! I may be tiny and may be terrified! But I'm not going to let you eat me! You can stand there be as scary all you want! I’m not affected by it!

When Scorpion Queen finally heard Macaque’s voice, she turned to the small child and grinned.

Scorpion Queen: There you are!

Macaque: YOU’RE BEAUTIFUL!

As Scorpion Queen attacked Macaque again, the boy screamed in fear and ran away. The scorpion demon noticed and chased him.

During the chase, Macaque noticed a hole, ran into it, and grew back to normal size, falling to the ground. When he saw the exit, his eyes lit up, and he got up excitedly.

Macaque: A way out! Yes yes yes yes yes!

Just as he was about to run to the exit, he heard someone’s voice and nervously turned back.

?????: Help! Someone help!

At first, Macaque hesitated, but then he decided to go.

As he approached the voice, drawing his sword, he went toward the source.

At first, both were scared when they saw each other.

?????: Stay back!

The person was a woman with short straight hair, wearing work clothes. She looked scared and almost traumatized.

They stared at each other fearfully, but Macaque realized it was just a harmless citizen and stopped trembling, sighing in relief.

Macaque: Oh, It's just a citizen.

He put his sword away and looked at the woman with concern.

Macaque: Hey, what are you doing down here?

The woman calmed down when she recognized the child.

?????: It’s you… You’re the Soldier of the Dragon.

Macaque grinned proudly and adjusted his hair.

Macaque: Ah, so you heard of me, eh? Not surprised. Come on, let's get you-

Suddenly, the woman grabbed his hand, startling him.

??????: Please, you have to help me! There’s not much time!

As if hearing a sound, everyone looked toward its source.

??????: What was that?

The woman let go of Macaque’s hand and panicked behind him.

Macaque noticed and gently sat in front of her, trying to calm her.

Macaque: It’s okay. I get it. It's scary being alone… But you’re not alone anymore. You got me. We’ll find a way out together, I promise.

With that sincere smile, the woman looked at his hand and tried to hold it, but then pulled back.

?????: W-Wait… You’re the Soldier of the Dragon.

Then she stood and ran.

??????: Come on! You have to follow me!

Macaque: H-Hey, wait!

He stared at her in shock, then followed.

Macaque: Hold up!

Finally, they reached the main room.

Macaque: We really shouldn’t be here… Come on.

?????: We can’t. Not yet... Scorpion Queen is building something evil. This.

The woman pointed to a robot and a sacred form, which frightened the child.

Macaque: Oh!..

?????: Whatever she's planning... It's all to do with that. I've seen you use your blade. Surely you could use it to smash that thing. Don't let her hurt someone else. Please.

Macaque hesitated at first, then nodded and smiled.

Macaque: Okay.... But maybe step back.

Then, Macaque used his sword to destroy the hologram.

Macaque: Here… comes… Soldier of the Dragon.

But suddenly, his reflection in the mirror tried to stop him.

Mirror Macaque: No, don't, stop! What are you doing?

When Macaque realized this, he stopped attacking.

The oven seemed familiar to him.

Macaque: Wait is this... This is the Trigram Furnace! From the Celestial Realm! How is this?

???????: You have to destroy it now! There’s no time!

As the woman kept pleading from behind, Macaque frowned.

Macaque: Trust your instincts...

The woman’s voice became even more desperate… but sounded increasingly familiar…

???????: Soldier of the Dragon, please!

Macaque suddenly used his flame vision, but there were white energies everywhere. He remembered the mistress who had tormented him until he was eight.

While having flashbacks about Yaoji and the Scorpion Queen, Macaque turned in fear.

The woman briefly took the form of a goddess, then reverted to human form, and Macaque screamed in fear, dropping his sword and breaking the mirror with his back.

Macaque: It’s you… You're…

The woman smiled coldly.

Nuwa: I am the creation goddess, Nuwa.

Her eyes glowed white, hurting Macaque’s mind.

As a result, Macaque began to see her both as normal and as a goddess.

Nuwa: Liu’er Mihou. I’m sorry, but I need to take that blade. I also see that my punishments finally worked.

Macaque immediately picked up his sword and tried to escape, but Nuwa made it hard for him to leave.

Nuwa: Calm yourself. It's pointless to deny me. Perhaps this was the only lesson you hadn’t learned. But you will learn it, eventually. Soon.

Macaque finally endured the pain and held his sword against the goddess. But the sword felt very hot.

At first, his eyes flashed white, then glowed green, returning to normal.

Macaque: I trusted you… I thought you were-

The woman tilted her head gracefully.

Nuwa: A helpless citizen? Oh yes. That’s only one of my powers. There’s more beneath it, little one.

Macaque gritted his teeth in anger.

Macaque: I'm not gonna let you win. I’ll tell Dragon Soldier.

Nuwa pressed the child’s head again, and this time Macaque fell to his knees. But now he could see her goddess form.

Nuwa: Dragon Soldier. Do you really think she doesn't already know about me? Curious that ehe is not with you now is not? Ah, I see. You have become disrespect with she already knows that whe made the wrong choice. Picked the wrong successor.

Nuwa passed through Macaque, and he collapsed to the ground as she continued speaking. She held his hair, lifting his head sharply.

Nuwa: Do you know?

Then a tearful expression appeared on her face.

Nuwa: It's scary being alone!

Then an evil smile appeared.

Nuwa: I pity you.

The goddess gripped Macaque’s neck tightly.

Nuwa: Just a piece in a game you cannot possibly comprehend, you are just a pawn. A pawn that understands focus and listening. But your problem is; you don’t know how to obey.

Suddenly, Scorpion Queen appeared, and Nuwa had to release the child. Scorpion Queen didn’t notice this.

Scorpion Queen: Soldier of the Dragon! Enough waiting. Oh, I'm gonna enjoy this

Scorpion Queen jumped at Macaque to attack, but Macaque shrank, and Nuwa, eyes glowing white, threw him against the wall.

Macaque tried to escape through a small hole but could still see the cursed energies.

Nuwa: Focus. Listen. Escape.

Macaque went into a crack and escaped from there.

Nuwa: Order will find you soon.

Scorpion Queen, confused, looked at the goddess, while Nuwa just smiled, her eyes glowing white.

“You’ll regret this.”

“You cannot escape.”

---

Macaque climbed out of the sewer and entered the shop.

Xiangliu was tasting pastries while Tong Bei nervously waited for his reaction.

Xiangliu: Mmmm! Now that was delicious. Okay, just making the final edits to my review—

Suddenly, they smelled the terrible odor and turned to see Macaque at the door, looking miserable.

Tong Bei: Liu’er?! Where have you been?! And what is that smell?!

Tong Bei looked at the boy in disgust, while Xiangliu couldn’t help but vomit and returned to his computer.

Xiangliu: Staff hygiene contunies to be unacceptable. And publish!

Tong Bei immediately grabbed the computer from him.

Tong Bei: Hey! Liu’er, my shop got a bad rating because of you! Wait a second…

When he noticed something in the account, he frowned.

Tong Bei: Is this your account? Only 1 follower? And that follower is… XIANGLIU!

Tong Bei looked at the snake demon in anger, while Xiangliu laughed tensely.

Xiangliu: I mean, I’m just starting. You’re my inaugural.

Tong Bei angrily grabbed a knife.

Tong Bei: And your last! Come here, you freeloading coward!

Xiangliu started to run, and Tong Bei chased him from behind.

While they fought in the back, all Macaque could do was sit and rest his head on the table, remembering when he played chess with the mistress… Once, he accidentally placed a pawn in the middle of two squares, and Nuwa had taken the pawn and broken it into pieces… “Let it be a pawn that doesn’t obey”…

And in that moment, Macaque realized for the first time in a long time what real fear felt like.

Chapter Text

Chi Jiao, Wukong, and Macaque were at the Dragon Soldier’s house, looking for something for Macaque’s training.

Macaque: Maybe under here?

As Macaque looked around, his nerves began to fray.

Macaque: There's gotta be something!

Chi Jiao was inspecting a box but had no idea what to do.

Chi Jiao: Remind me what is it we're looking for again.

Then she showed the cube she found to the child.

Chi Jiao: Oh, oh, is this it?

Macaque quickly went to the monkey and looked at the cube, but when he realized it didn’t work, he threw it in frustration.

Macaque: Hmmm! I'm trying to find something that would make me super, super powerful, so I can defeat -

Memories of those moments came to Macaque, and he tried to hide his fear.

Macaque: So- someone. Anyone. You know, to be sure I got what it takes to take on the next big bad!

While Chi Jiao and Macaque were talking, Wukong was busy with a VR headset.

Chi Jiao:  I thought Dragon Soldier was training you with remote lessons.

Just as Wukong was about to grab the console, Macaque threw his monkey friend beside him.

Macaque: Yeah, and I already learned all the different lessons the Dragon Soldier of Vacations left for me. I don't know, I just...I feel like I'm ready for something bigger. More powerful. Ugh.

As Macaque huffed and rolled over, Chi Jiao unrolled a scroll and started reading.

Chi Jiao: “A wise warrior leads their enemy into their own destruction." What's that mean?

Macaque still looked stressed and couldn’t think clearly.

Macaque: It means I need to be stronger. Be so powerful that it'd be certain defeat to fight me.

Chi Jiao was still trying to offer another option.

Chi Jiao: Maybe you need a break, little man. Just kick back for a bit.

Macaque eyed the monkey suspiciously.

Macaque: Uh, did Dragon Soldier ever take breaks?

Meanwhile, Wukong, while playing the game, finally communicated with his lover.

Wukong: She's literally on vacation right now, darling.

Macaque blushed and looked away as this information hit him.

Wukong: Plus, she's long some serious hours on this game.

Macaque: What?

He turned back to the TV, confused.

Wukong: Uh, huh. Like, 10,000.

Macaque then rubbed his chin thoughtfully.

Macaque: No way Dragon Soldier would have wasted time on this, my sun.

Then, an idea seemed to strike him, and he caught his breath.

Macaque: Unless? Yes! This must be it!

Macaque grabbed his monkey lover’s headset and controller, which surprised him.

Wukong: Huh?

Macaque: You said it before Wukong. Dragon Soldier is never gonna just give me the answers straight!

Wukong: I said that?

Then he put on the headset and glasses.

Macaque: She must have left me this game for a reason! It has to contain the knowledge to some unbelievably, powerful new ability!

Wukong sighed while looking at the game box.

Wukong: Or it's just a cruddy, old video game that Dragon Soldier likes because her face is on the box?

Ignoring him, Macaque waved his arms in astonishment. It was like he was seeing VR for the first time.

Macaque: Whoa! This is amazing! It looks just like Dragon Soldier’s house!

Wukong walked over and tapped the power button on the headset.

Wukong: That's because I haven't turned it on yet, dear.

The screen transformed Macaque’s surroundings into a black void.

Macaque: Huh?! What the?!

System: Importing likeness.

He stood under a glowing blue grid as a holographic circle scanned him.

System: Scanning... Scaninng...

Suddenly, the void became a natural environment with a stone path.

An 8-bit avatar appeared on the screen, wearing a long-sleeved green-purple robe with a black stripe and a red scarf. His pants were red, and he had black shoes.

Macaque: This is so... Uh... Immersive?

As a chicken in front of him glitched and died, Macaque began to worry slightly.

Macaque: Um... Is it true that if I die in here, I'll die in real life?

Panicking, Wukong leaned on the couch and tried to calm his lover.

Wukong: Pssh! Absolutely not!

Although, he didn’t really know—anything could happen at Mei’s house…

He whispered to his monkey friend to avoid worrying him.

Wukong:  I- I don't... I don't know.

Chi Jiao remained calm as Macaque continued playing.

Macaque: Okay, so... I guess I go over here then?

His avatar took a few steps before anyone could stop him. A dialogue screen appeared, and…

A familiar character appeared on the screen.

Mei: Welcome traveler, on a journey to the east!

Macaque smiled brightly, even catching his breath.

Macaque: It's Dragon Soldier! She's in the game! Wait, did Dragon Soldier make this game?

Meanwhile, Mei in the game continued speaking.

Mei: As the legendary Great Soldier, you couldn't ask for a better tutor.

Macaque: Yeah, seems like she definietly made this game. Okay, video game Dragon Soldier, what you got for me?

The dialogue continued.

Mei: On your journey, you will learn to smite powerful enemies!

Macaque: Wohohoo! I want me some of that!

Mei: After you complete the tutorials, you'll learn to access-

Macaque groaned.

Macaque: Ugh! This is taking forever! How do I skip?

He pressed a button, and the dialogue finally stopped.

He moved his avatar forward, but Dragon Soldier stopped him again.

Macaque: Ugh! What now?!

The dialogue returned. This time Mei looked angry, clenching her fist.

Mei: Defeat each opponent to work your way up to the final boss, the Rhino King!

Macaque pressed the skip button instead of listening.

Macaque: Great! Just as soon as these pop-ups stop popping up.

Mei: The first of 72 basic combos--

Macaque: Skip.

Mei: Pay attention to--

Macaque: Skip.

Mei: Many friends along the--

Macaque: Skip, skip, skip.

Macaque started skipping each training session. But there were so many dialogues that it seemed like it would last forever.

Wukong: Uh, maybe some of those tutorials from Dragon Soldier would be... helpful... okay.

During the skipping session, Macaque screamed a cry that could shake mountains, as if the entire place was trembling.

Macaque: Finally! I'm done with the tutorials, I can actually start playing the game.

Mei: Congratulations. You have completed all the training. Your next adventure is entirely up to you.

As the screen darkened, Macaque sighed in relief.

Macaque: Finally! I’m tired of the training. I can start the real game now.

Passing a temple in-game, Macaque was breathless with excitement.

Macaque: An in-game store!

Mei appeared in front of him again.

Mei: Welcome to the Central Temple! Here, wise teachers grant blessings and new abilities!

Macaque smiled.

Macaque: Ho-ho! Now, that sounds like something me would likey! And enter.

The avatar moved backward and then quickly advanced into the temple.

On the right side of the screen, a hooded figure appeared with a vertical skill slot on the left.

The figure wore a robe like the 10 Kings of Diyu. Friendly, yet intimidating, his face was hidden.

Macaque momentarily thought he resembled Xiangliu.

10th King: This is the path to enlightenment, young reptile. Perhaps a blessing for your journey?

Macaque eagerly scrolled through the abilities. At the same time, he dismissed the feature where Mei was on a date with a girl named Y/N.

Macaque: Whoa! This has all of Dragon Soldier's moves!  Long Xiaojiao’s 108,000 Li Somersault!

But he realized most of the abilities were passive moves.

Macaque: Hey, these are all passive abilities...

Fuming, Macaque tried to find a more active skill.

He found some requiring more attacks with a secret key and laughed.

Macaque: This is more like it!

At the bottom, he saw a skill that left him breathless.

Macaque: Long Xiaojiao’s Flaming Fury Rain! This is perfect! With a move like this... yeah!

Mini illustrations appeared showing how to perform the move.

Macaque: This must have been what Dragon Soldier wanted me to find!

He read the skill description.

Macaque: “Deals massive damage while also leaving your defenses wide open."

He didn’t care.

Macaque: Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah. It's fine. I'll just bust them up first! Okay, let's do this thing!

After purchasing the in-game abilities, a system notification announced that the upgrade unlock was active. Macaque’s avatar left the temple and started descending into the village.

The first village had a white-furred monkey attacking everyone and trying to cook food.

Seeing this, Macaque was disturbed because it resembled Tong Bei.

Suddenly, Mei appeared and started speaking, making him even more uneasy. Her usual chest bandage was gone!

Mei: Oh no! The Long-Arm Gibbon has kidnapped the Chief's daughter! Someone has to stop him!

Then, the in-game Long-Arm Gibbon, almost like a demon, began to speak.

Long-Arm Gibbon: With my legendary spear, nobody can stop me!

Despite still being uneasy, Macaque sighed and started the game.

Macaque: Alright… let’s begin.

He pressed the A button.

Macaque: Here comes… Long Xiaojiao’s Flaming Fury Rain!

He struck the demon with a rain of fire. As it fell, the monkey screeched, defeated.

Macaque: YES!

In his excitement, he forgot that the demon resembled his real-life boss. Wukong seemed to notice.

Wukong: Hey, you think, The Long-Arm Gibbon kinda looks like--

Chi Jiao immediately jumped in excitement.

Chi Jiao: Xiangliu! I know! I thought the exact same thing!

Wukong didn’t press further.

Wukong: Ummm… right…

Mei appeared again in the game, clothed but angry, surrounded by green flames.

Mei: Nice one! But, remember, not every opponent can be beaten with brute strength! Wanna learn a counter-attack?

Macaque shrugged and skipped the dialogue.

Macaque: I think this move worked pretty well. Thanks, but no thanks!

He advanced toward a mountain range.

Macaque: A'ight! Who's next?

An ape demon holding a sword appeared in front of his avatar.

Red-Butt Horse Monkey: You shall not pass.

Seeing how much the character resembled a red monkey, Wukong and Chi Jiao became uneasy. But Macaque didn’t care anymore. He even laughed maniacally.

Mei: The only way to cross the temple is by Red-Butt Horse Monkey defeating. His sword attacks are deadly, but leave him open to counter-attacks.

Macaque adopted a cat-like grin (:3) and skipped the dialogue.

Macaque: Hmm, I could learn a counter-attack, or... I could  Flaming Fury Rain!

He pressed the A button, and the attack defeated the in-game demon.

Macaque: This move is amazing! Why would they even let you unlock it so early, it kinda makes the rest of the game redundant. All right! Final uber boss, Rhino King! I'm coming for you!

He didn’t notice, but Chi Jiao nervously hugged Wukong from behind. Seeing the golden monkey asleep, she gently placed him on the couch, gave him a monkey plush, and covered him with a blanket.

He wouldn’t lie: seeing Macaque so immersed in fighting demons worried him a bit… They knew it was their Macaque, yes, but… Chi Jiao shrugged. Maybe he shouldn’t overthink it.

Macaque slowly approached a cave on the rising mountain.

Macaque: Final boss! Let’s go.

First, the Rhinoceros King’s laugh was heard, then he finally appeared with force.

Rhinoceros King: Who dares challenge the Rhino King? I will pulverize you to dust!

As the countdown began, Macaque prepared himself. He cracked his fingers and mimed holding a sword.

Macaque: Bring it! LONG XIAOJIAO’S FLAMING FURY RAIN!!

But before he could strike, the king launched his attack.

Rhinoceros King: Rhino King Head Butt of Hatred!

The King struck Macaque’s avatar, and “GAME OVER!” appeared in the center of the screen. Macaque removed the VR headset and threw a million-dollar vase across the room.

Macaque: WHAT!? THAT'S IMPOSSIBLE! My Long Xiaojiao’s Flaming Fury Rain did NOTHING! It must have been a bug in the game. Yup, that's what it was.

He tried again, putting the headset back on, but Mei’s avatar blocked him. Her green aura intensified, and her face became terrifying.

Mei: Remember, not every opponent can be beaten with brute strength! Wanna learn a counter-attack?

Macaque, fed up, skipped again.

Macaque: Skip. Skip skip skip!

He skipped more dialogue before the fight started.

Macaque: I got this.

But the in-game king repeatedly defeated him, and he broke everything he could reach, screaming. Chi Jiao was too scared to speak, so she changed rooms.

Eventually, Macaque felt like he was about to give up. Frustrated, he nearly shook the house.

Macaque: This is ridiculous! Long Xiaojiao’s Flaming Fury Rain is the strongest move in the game!

He grabbed and threw the headset, which hit Wukong’s chair, toppling him. Wukong hit the ground, fully awake now.

Macaque: But how am I supposed to use it? If that Rhino Demon keeps beating the snot out of me before I can execute it!

When Chi Jiao returned to the room, she saw a slightly dazed Sun Wukong. She adjusted the chair and tried to calm Macaque’s rage.

Chi Jiao: Okay, this looks like a good place to stop. You have been playing for 32 straight hours.

Macaque wasn’t giving up.

Macaque: Stop? Now? NEVER!

His eyes gleamed with determination.

Macaque: I just have to try harder. It's just like Dragon Soldier said. I just need to get stronger!

Wukong stretched like a cat.

Wukong: Except she never said that. She said, "The wise warrior leads the enemy into their own destruction."

Chi Jiao: Yeah, maybe what she's saying is... the strongest move isn't always the rightest move?

Macaque grumbled, crossing his arms and sitting down, frustrated.

Macaque: Then what is the rightest move..?

Mei appeared again on the screen, now looking fed up, in her Absolute Dragon form.

Mei: Remember, not every opponent can be beaten with brute strength! Do you want to learn a counter-attack?

Hearing these words, Macaque gasped with sudden realization.

Macaque: "The wise warrior leads their enemy into their own destruction." Hold on! Go with me here! I think I got something!

He grinned widely.

Macaque: Maybe I need to use the Rhino King's own strength against him!

Wukong smiled, answering tiredly.

Wukong: Hey, yeah my dear. Almost like The Tutorial Soldier was trying to tell you this the whole time.

Macaque grabbed the headset again, ran back to the temple, and scrolled through options until he found what he needed.

Mei spoke from behind.

Mei: Sometimes, using your enemies strength against them is the strongest move of all! This will leave them open for a counter-attack! Ready to give it a go?

This time, Macaque smiled and nodded.

Macaque: Let's redo this!

He got the counterattack and headed to the temple where the Rhinoceros King awaited.

Once the king spoke, the fight began.

The King attacked first.

Rhinoceros King: Rhino King Head Butt of Hatred!

As he prepared to strike, Macaque chuckled and pressed Y.

Macaque: Long Xiaojiao’s 108,000 Li Somersault!

His avatar flipped over the king, who hit his head on the wall in pain.

Wukong: Now, Mihou!

Chi Jiao: Go get him!

As Macaque prepared his move, he inadvertently started activating his real-world power. He raised his sword, and the room filled with black cloud-like smoke.

Macaque: Long Xiaojiao’s…

His avatar strengthened along with him, both glowing green and purple.

Macaque: FLAMING FURY RAIN!

The drops finished the king, while in the real world, objects melted and some items caught fire.

Shortly after, the room fell into silence. Once everyone regrouped, the trio tried to tend to the burns.

Chi Jiao: So, did you learn what you needed to

Macaque nodded enthusiastically.

Macaque: Yeah, that and then some! You were right, Chi Jiao.

He started showing off his cool moves.

Macaque: Sometimes the strongest move isn't always the bestest.

Then he flopped onto the couch while Wukong and Chi Jiao smiled, looking at the horribly melted and rearranged furniture.

Chi JiaoIt's the bestest at melting stuff, though.

Everyone laughed warmly, and a sense of calm settled.

But they knew one day, even this calm would vanish.